Top 2026 Travel Trends: Exploring Secondary Destinations, Culinary Journeys, Heritage Travel & More

As we look ahead to 2026, the world of travel is evolving in exciting ways. After years of shifting travel habits and new considerations, travelers are seeking meaningful, authentic, and diverse experiences more than ever before. The 2026 travel trends reflect a deepening desire for unique adventures that go beyond the typical tourist routes, blending culture, connection, wellness, and a sense of purpose.

From exploring lesser-known secondary destinations and indulging in culinary journeys, to embracing heritage travel and multi-generational trips, these trends highlight how travelers are expanding their horizons, reconnecting with roots, and creating memories with loved ones. Whether you’re craving nostalgia, wellness, or meaningful volunteer experiences, 2026 offers a wealth of fresh ways to travel thoughtfully and joyfully. In this blog, we’ll dive into each trend with destination ideas and inspiration to help you plan your next unforgettable journey.

Visiting Secondary Destinations

One of the standout 2026 travel trends is the shift toward exploring secondary destinations. These are places that offer all the charm and cultural depth of major cities or popular tourist hubs—but with fewer crowds, lower costs, and an authentic local vibe. Travelers are increasingly drawn to the “undiscovered” gems that provide fresh narratives and slower-paced exploration.

For example, instead of Paris, consider the atmospheric city of Nantes or the historic port of Bordeaux in France. Rather than Venice, visit the colorful canals of Bologna or the quieter beauty of Verona. In Italy, Lecce and Matera shine as lesser-known yet culturally rich alternatives full of ancient history and beautiful architecture. Secondary destinations also apply beyond Europe: in Japan, places like Kanazawa and Hakone offer exquisite art and nature away from Tokyo’s bustle.

Choosing these spots not only rewards travelers with unique experiences but also benefits local economies and less-explored communities. It’s a win-win trend for sustainable and responsible travel.

Destination Dupes: Affordable Alternatives to Iconic Spots

Closely related is the rise of destination dupes — places that offer a similar vibe, beauty, or attractions to iconic but often overcrowded locations but at a fraction of the cost and crowds. This trend allows travelers to enjoy the essence of timeless travel sites with fresh perspectives and often more authentic interactions.

For instance, instead of Santorini’s packed streets, Milos or Naxos in Greece offer stunning sunsets, whitewashed villages, and pristine beaches without the overwhelming tourist presence. Croatia’s Rovinj is a charming alternative to Venice with quaint cobblestone streets and Adriatic views. In the U.S., Asheville, North Carolina, captures the mountain charm and artsy culture comparable to towns like Sedona, Arizona, but in a more laid-back setting.

These dupes provide excellent value for families or multi-generational travelers looking to maximize enjoyment without crowd stress.

Culinary Travel: Savoring the World Plate by Plate

2026 sees a continued surge in culinary travel, with food playing a central role in destination choice. Travelers want to taste authentic regional dishes, learn cooking techniques, and engage with local chefs and food producers. Culinary travel transcends mere dining — it’s a window into culture, tradition, and community.

Italy remains a top destination for cooking classes and wine tours, from Tuscany’s rolling vineyards to Sicily’s vibrant street food. Vietnam’s Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer rich markets, street food tours, and family-run cooking schools that delight adventurous eaters. In Mexico, Oaxaca’s renowned moles and vibrant markets provide feast-like experiences steeped in indigenous heritage.

Culinary travelers also enjoy farm-to-table tours in Ireland or Tasmania, combining luxury accommodations with sustainable dining practices. Food festivals and immersive experiences like truffle hunting or olive oil tastings are increasingly popular, deepening this trend.

Heritage Travel: Reconnecting with Roots

Many travelers are pursuing heritage travel in 2026, seeking to reconnect with ancestral origins or explore the culture and history of their lineage. This meaningful form of travel fosters personal growth and family connection while uncovering unique regional stories.

Destinations like Ireland and Scotland top heritage travel thanks to their rich genealogy resources and welcoming small towns. In the U.S., cities like Charleston and New Orleans offer deep cultural roots coupled with historic architecture. Poland and Lithuania attract second- and third-generation travelers tracing family lines in Europe.

Heritage travel often pairs well with local festivals, small museum visits, and intimate culinary experiences, making every journey deeply personal and unforgettable.

Multi-Gen and Skip-Gen Travel: Tailored Experiences for Families

Whether it’s full multi-generational family vacations or skip-generation trips that involve grandparents and grandchildren, tailor-made travel experiences for families continue to grow in demand. 2026 emphasizes comfort, accessibility, and activities suitable across a broad age range.

For multi-gen fun, destinations like the Bahamas combine beach resorts with cultural excursions and water parks. Costa Rica offers wildlife tours and beachfront retreats accommodating all ages. Italy appeals for its historical riches and family-friendly cuisine, while places like Australia’s Great Barrier Reef provide adventure alongside relaxation.

Skip-gen travel, where grandparents create memorable trips with grandchildren, finds perfect settings in places like Hawaii or the Galapagos, blending education with bonding in spectacular natural surroundings.

Literary Travel: Walking in the Footsteps of Writers

A fascinating trend gaining ground is literary travel, where readers visit places connected to famous authors or stories. These journeys invite travelers to immerse themselves in literary history while enjoying beautiful settings.

England’s Lake District attracts lovers of Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Paris offers walking tours focused on Hemingway and James Joyce’s haunts. In the U.S., New England’s Concord and Massachusetts offer immersive Emily Dickinson and Louisa May Alcott experiences.

Literary travel combines museum visits, guided tours, and themed accommodations — perfect for cultural enthusiasts seeking meaningful connection through storytelling and landscape.

Nostalgia Travel: Revisiting Childhood and Heritage

Nostalgia travel invites travelers to revisit their roots, childhood vacations, or cherished family traditions. This emotional form of travel reconnects people with places that shaped their lives or memories.

Destinations like seaside resorts on the English coast or classic American summer towns like Cape Cod bring back that vintage family vacation feel. European towns with old-world charm or national parks where families once camped cultivate a sense of time travel.

This trend often inspires stays in heritage hotels, visits to local fairs, and rediscovery of classic foods and childhood favorites, weaving together emotions and experiences.

Wellness Travel: Mind, Body & Spirit Recharge

Wellness travel is booming in 2026 as travelers seek rejuvenation, mindfulness, and health in serene settings. New destinations and resorts are catering to guests with personalized wellness programs, spa treatments, yoga retreats, and immersive nature connections.

Destinations like Bali and Costa Rica offer tropical wellness escapes combining beach, jungle, and holistic healing. European spa towns such as Baden-Baden and Budapest are rich in therapeutic mineral waters. Japan’s onsen hot springs and Norway’s fjords provide soothing natural environments.

Wellness travel blends physical activity, mental relaxation, and nutrition, making it ideal for families or solo travelers wanting balance on holiday.

Celebration Travel: Milestones in Memorable Places

Celebrating life’s milestones through travel — be it birthdays, anniversaries, or reunions — is an enduring travel trend for 2026. Families and groups seek distinctive destinations with unique experiences tailored to the occasion.

Imagine a group cruise through the Mediterranean, a luxurious safari in South Africa, or a scenic vineyard retreat in Tuscany to toast special moments. Bali’s beachfront villas or Hawaii’s tropical resorts provide perfect settings for celebrations infused with culture and beauty.

Celebration travel often combines exclusivity, personalized planning, and meaningful activities to create lifelong memories.

Voluntourism: Giving Back While Exploring

Voluntourism continues to grow as travelers look to make a positive impact while exploring the world. This enriching travel style combines cultural immersion with service—whether working on conservation projects, teaching, or community-building.

Destinations like Costa Rica provide rainforest conservation volunteering, South Africa offers wildlife rehabilitation projects, and Nepal welcomes trekkers helping rebuild communities. This form of travel adds deep purpose and insight to vacations, especially appealing to families and solo travelers seeking meaningful experiences.

Conclusion

The 2026 travel trends reveal a desire for diversity, connection, and authenticity in how we explore the world. From hidden secondary destinations and culinary tours to heritage journeys, literary explorations, and wellness retreats, today’s travelers crave experiences that engage the senses and the soul.

Family trips are becoming richer with multi-gen and skip-gen options, while celebration travel and voluntourism bring intention and joy to travel planning. With this guide to the top 2026 travel trends, you have a wealth of inspiration for the next adventure of your lifetime.

Ready to craft your perfect trip tuned to these trends? Let Dreamworthy Destinations help you plan an extraordinary journey filled with discovery, delight, and lasting memories.

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