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Where to Visit in North America for Summer 2026
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Where to Visit in Europe for Summer 2026
Where to Visit in Asia for Summer 2026
Where to Visit in Oceania for Summer 2026
Where Else to Visit for Summer 2026
Where to Visit in North America for Summer 2026
North America is set to host the FIFA World Cup in summer 2026 with matches held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. There are 16 host cities, including New York, Boston, Mexico, Dallas, and Vancouver, with many offering a FIFA Festival experience for non-ticket holders.
2026 is the perfect time to plan a summer vacation here if you’re a sports enthusiast and there’s plenty to enjoy if you want an affordable family vacation or an outdoor solo adventure by the lake.
1. Portland, Maine, USA
- Budget Accommodation: Hampton Inn & Suites Portland West
- Luxury Accommodation: The Press Hotel, Marriott Autograph Collection
- For Solo Travelers: Aloft Portland Downtown Waterfront ME
If you love to see the sun rising by the lake, head to Portland in Maine, the state that’s the first place to catch the sun every morning in the U.S. While there’s plenty to discover across Maine, we suggest basing yourself in Portland, the state’s largest city.
If you love to see the sun rising by the lake, head to Portland in Maine.
Photo by Fotogro on Shutterstock
You’ll get to experience a taste of classic New England, while being close enough to New York, Boston, and Washington D.C. by Amtrak if you’re looking for a multi-stop itinerary.
2. Orlando, Florida, USA
- Budget Accommodation: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Orlando at SeaWorld
- Luxury Accommodation: Universal’s Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel
- For Families: Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites
Orlando is unique as one of the few holiday destinations in the U.S. that offers something for everyone, whether you’re traveling with small children, your friends, or even planning a honeymoon. You can curate an Orlando vacation to suit your budget, whether you’re staying on-site at Disney World or choosing a self-catered downtown apartment.
Orlando is unique as one of the few holiday destinations in the U.S. that offers something for everyone.
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2025 saw the opening of Orlando’s first new theme park in over 2 decades with Universal’s Epic Universe. You can expect the initial rush for tickets to slow down in summer 2026, but it has been experiencing some major hype.
3. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Budget Accommodation: YCMA Hotel
- Luxury Accommodation: Fairmont Pacific Rim
- For Groups: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites North Vancouver by IHG
Vancouver is set to be one of the most popular destinations for summer 2026. It is hosting seven matches during the FIFA World Cup in June and July across multiple days, with a vast variety of direct flights available, both internationally and from areas across the United States. If your trip overlaps with the World Cup, you can even spend a day at Hastings Park at the FIFA Fan Festival, which will offer live match broadcasts, entertainment, and food vendors.
It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re a nature enthusiast, as Grouse Mountain is just a 15-minute drive away.
Photo by Artacke Pictures on Shutterstock
Beyond soccer, there’s still plenty to do in Vancouver this summer. It’s the perfect place to visit if you’re a nature enthusiast, as Grouse Mountain is just a 15-minute drive away and offers everything from daytime walking trails to biking routes with views of the Strait of Georgia. Make sure to keep enough time in your itinerary to tour Granville Island’s public market and explore the Vancouver Art Gallery.
4. Guadalajara, Mexico
- Budget Accommodation: Hotel Portobelo
- Luxury Accommodation: Hotel Aló Degollado
- For Couples: Hotel Real Maestranza
If Mexico has been on your travel vision board, consider up-and-coming Guadalajara. It’s Mexico’s third-largest city and is set to host several events throughout 2026, including four FIFA World Cup matches in June. While these matches are a nice added extra, most tourists to Guadalajara are brought to the region by their love of art and food.
It’s easy to immerse yourself in the local Mexican culture in downtown Guadalajara.
Photo by Simon Mayer on Shutterstock
It’s easy to immerse yourself in the local Mexican culture in downtown Guadalajara, from exploring contemporary culture at the Museo de Arte de Zapopan (MAZ) to taking a tour of Zoologico Guadalajara, one of Latin America’s largest zoos.
Where to Visit in Europe for Summer 2026
The “Euro Summer” trend shows no signs of slowing down for summer 2026. If you’re looking to explore more of the continent or if you’re visiting for the first time, there’s plenty happening in 2026, including the scheduled completion of The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and major music festivals, like Tomorrowland Festival and Primavera Sound Festival.
1. Oulu, Finland
- Budget Accommodation: GreenStar Hotel Oulu
- Luxury Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel
- For Explorers: Nallikari Seaside Aalto Apartments
It’s easy to think that Finland is somewhere to visit in the winter months, but August is the ideal month for exploring this region, which sits just 60 miles away from the Arctic Circle. Oulu is the ultimate choice for nature lovers, offering everything from kayaking to cycling routes and walking trails. One of the main coastal sites in Oulu is Nallikari Beach, not far from downtown Oulu, which is family-friendly with its gentle slopes and shallow waters.
Oulu is the ultimate choice for nature lovers.
Photo by trabantos on Shutterstock
2026 is the perfect time to consider traveling to Finland, as Oulu is Europe’s Culture Capital for the year. It’ll also be easier to reach Oulu if you’re visiting internationally with the Pendolino Plus route offering direct transport from Helsinki.
2. Barcelona, Spain
- Budget Accommodation: Hotel Porta Fira
- Luxury Accommodation: Hotel La Pau
- For Families: El Avenida Palace Hotel
Barcelona is a European location that gives you the best of both worlds by combining a city break with a coastal beach vacation. It’s a great choice if you want to explore several European cities by train or if you want to make an extended trip. 2026 is set to be a landmark time for Barcelona, with construction expected to finish at the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia after over 140 years of work.
The warm temperatures make Barcelona ideal if you want to enjoy a few days away in the sun.
Photo by Eterna Images on Shutterstock
You can take the city center at your own speed, whether you want to immerse yourself in the beauty of Gaudi’s famous buildings, like La Pedrera, or indulge in any of the dozens of food markets hosted throughout the city. The warm temperatures make Barcelona ideal if you want to enjoy a few days away in the sun. If you love watching live entertainment, you can even grab a ticket to the Primavera Sound Barcelona 2026 Festival.
3. Athens, Greece
- Budget Accommodation: Bob W Eolou Hotel
- Luxury Accommodation: Grecotel Pallas Athena Hotel
- For Groups: Trendy Hotel by Athens Prime Hotels
Greece tops the list every year of the most popular countries for European vacations. Whether you want to live your Mamma Mia fantasy or explore the city’s museums, there’s something for every traveler in Athens.
There’s something for every traveler in Athens.
Photo by Georgios Tsichlis on Shutterstock
It is also a popular choice of starting point for visitors planning to hop between Greek islands, including Santorini and Mykonos, and those taking cruises from the main harbor.
4. Sicily, Italy
- Budget Accommodation: ibis Styles Catania Acireale
- Luxury Accommodation: Baglio Oneto Dei Principi di San Lorenzo
- For Couples: Villa Boscarino
No summer travel guide is complete without mentioning Italy. While Rome was one of the most popular places for vacations in 2025, thanks to the opening of the Holy Door at the Vatican, we’re turning our attention to the island of Sicily in 2026. What we love about this region is how it mixes aspects of Italian, Spanish, and English heritage.
Sicily is an ideal option if you want to take things slower during your getaway.
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Sicily is an ideal option if you want to take things slower during your getaway, from spending time at the coastal beaches in calm waters to indulging in mouthwatering food that is beloved by locals and tourists alike. Look out for traditional dishes like caponata, pasta alla norma, and pani câ meusa. You can spend your days in Sicily enjoying the sun-soaked beaches, taking part in tours around the historic part of town, or checking out harbor area to see cruise ships arrive.
5. Brussels, Belgium
- Budget Accommodation: The Liman Hotel
- Luxury Accommodation: Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place
- For Solo Travelers: YOOMA Urban Lodge
Brussels is often overlooked by tourists in favor of more fashionable – and busier – spots like London, Paris, and Berlin. It’s long been thought of as a city that’s primarily focused on bureaucratic business, as it’s the base for many European Union institutions, but it’s transformed in recent years.
Brussels is transformed in recent years.
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Although the Kanal-Centre Pompidou isn’t scheduled to open until November 2026, there is still plenty for art lovers to do throughout Brussels in the daytime, including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. Other top historic sites in Brussels include the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, the Comic Strip Museum, and Parc du Cinquantenaire.
Where to Visit in Asia for Summer 2026
Asia is somewhere everyone is talking about right now. It’s almost impossible to scroll through social media without seeing posts about Tokyo, and Singapore has been a long-term favorite for travel enthusiasts. If you’re planning to tick Asia off your bucket list in 2026, here are three vacation spots to consider.
1. Manila, Philippines
- Budget Accommodation: Artemis Place Makati Hotel
- Luxury Accommodation: Hotel H2O
- For Families: Hotel Kimberly Manila
If you want to escape to the coastal beaches of Southeast Asia, there’s nowhere better than the Philippines. Manila is a great starting spot for discovering other regions of the Philippines, while there’s still plenty to fill your itinerary in the local area.
Manila is a great starting spot for discovering other regions of the Philippines.
Photo by r.nagy on Shutterstock
History enthusiasts can tour the Walled City of Intramuros, the National Museum of Anthropology, and Binondo Chinatown, the world’s oldest Chinatown.
2. Tokyo, Japan
- Budget Accommodation: KOKO Hotel Tsukiji Ginza
- Luxury Accommodation: Park Hyatt Tokyo
- For Solo Adventurers: YOTEL Tokyo Ginza
2026 is set to be a year of major change for visitors to Japan. Due to the recent influx of international guests, the country is implementing a range of new measures, including switching to a refund-based system for tax-free shopping and tiered ticket prices for major attractions, with tourists paying more. However, you can still expect your foreign currency to go further in Japan than in other popular spots in North America.
2026 is set to be a year of major change for visitors to Japan.
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June to August are when Tokyo’s humidity is at its highest, so make sure to pack accordingly! While there’s plenty to do in Tokyo itself, Japan is famous for its theme parks, which are considered amongst the most advanced in the world, including Sanrio Puroland and Tokyo DisneySea.
3. Singapore, Singapore
- Budget Accommodation: Travelodge Harbourfront Singapore
- Luxury Accommodation: Marina Bay Sands Hotel
- For Couples: Lyf Bugis Singapore
If you’re happiest in humid climates, you’ll feel right at home in Singapore. It’s a great alternative to a trip to Dubai with its futuristic architecture, renowned culinary scene, and attractions. This island country consists of one main island, over 60 smaller islands, and one outlying islet.
If you’re happiest in humid climates, you’ll feel right at home in Singapore.
Photo by monticello on Shutterstock
Singapore is one of the most popular countries for those heading to Asia for the first time, with its amazing nightlife and luxury experiences, including the world’s tallest infinity pool at Marina Bay Sands. If you’re a cruise enthusiast, make sure to head down to Singapore’s main harbor to see the ships arrive and depart.
Where to Visit in Oceania for Summer 2026
It’s easy to get caught up in all vacation options in the northern hemisphere, but heading down under in July and August is a great way to take advantage of the cooler weather and off-peak pricing.
1. Solomon Islands
- Budget Accommodation: Fatboys Resort
- Luxury Accommodation: Heritage Park Hotel
- For Solo Adventurers: Coral Sea Resort & Casino
The Solomon Islands is a world-class destination for snorkeling, diving, and water sports. If you’re looking for an island getaway or an alternative to a Caribbean beach trip, consider heading to this coastline instead. You’ll likely reach this region of the South Pacific by taking a three-hour daytime flight from Brisbane in Australia, which serves as a connecting hub for most major airlines.
The Solomon Islands is a world-class destination for snorkeling, diving, and water sports.
Photo by Travelanza Media on Shutterstock
There are over 1000 islands in this region, with May to October offering lower levels of humidity and moderate temperatures. This tropical retreat allows you to reconnect with the outdoors, from taking walking trails along the coast and through the mountains to Marovo lagoon, the world’s largest saltwater lagoon. It will make you feel like you’ve been transported to another world.
2. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Australia
- Budget Accommodation: Discovery Resorts – Kings Canyon
- Luxury Accommodation: Sails in the Desert
If you’re searching for an outdoor-focused vacation without going to a remote location, consider a tour of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Petermann in Australia’s Northern Territory. This World Heritage-listed spot describes itself as a “living cultural landscape where earth and memories exist as one”.
If you’re searching for an outdoor-focused vacation consider a tour of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Petermann.
Photo by PhotoFires on Shutterstock
It’s home to the huge red rock of Uluru, one of Australia’s most recognizable monuments, nestled in the Australian desert. Uluru, formerly known as “Ayers Rock”, is estimated to be half a billion years old. There are several walking routes with dedicated spots for catching sunrise and sunset.
Where Else to Visit for Summer 2026
Still searching for where to go for your 2026 vacations? We have 4 more recommendations that include other areas of the world, perfect if you’re looking for a hidden gem or a bucket-list experience.
1. Cusco, Peru, South America
- Budget Accommodation: Encantada Casa Boutique Spa
- Luxury Accommodation: Palacio del Inka, a Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott
- For Nature Lovers: Andenes By Mountain Lodges Of Peru
Is Machu Picchu on your bucket list? Chances are that you’re already considering a trip to Peru. We recommend making Cusco your home away from home, which is over 300 kilometres from the Peru coastline. This destination is popular with history enthusiasts as it was the capital of the Inca Empire.
Cusco is popular with history enthusiasts as it was the capital of the Inca Empire.
Photo by Milton Rodriguez on Shutterstock
New airports have opened in Lima and Huaraz, with another airport due to open in Chinchero, closer to Cusco, by September 2026. Most tourists will arrive in Peru through Lima airport, the main hub for international airlines.
2. Botswana, Africa
- Budget Accommodation: Dinaka Lodge
- Luxury Accommodation: Little Sable
- For Solo Adventurers: Hilton Garden Inn Gaborone
No guide is complete without mentioning Botswana, especially if you’ve always dreamt of going on a safari. Botswana is amongst the top rated of any safari locations, focusing on luxury experiences with smaller groups and private excursions as part of its high-value tourism ethos, while keeping it as low-impact as possible.
Botswana is amongst the top rated of any safari locations.
Photo by Lucian Coman on Shutterstock
You can see the waterways by a traditional canoe or even with a helicopter over the Okavango Delta before going on a traditional game drive at Chobe National Park. 40% of Botswana’s land is protected and used for wildlife conservation and game reserves. If you’re on a budget, you can organize a Botswana trip for as little as $200 per day when renting a camper van and staying at dedicated campsites.
3. Barbados, Caribbean
- Budget Accommodation: Blue Haven Holiday Apartments
- Luxury Accommodation: Saint Peter’s Bay
- For Couples: The Sandpiper
When you think of jetting for a tropical vacation, the chances are that you’re probably picturing somewhere like Barbados in the Caribbean. No trip is complete without stopping by local attractions, including Harrison’s Cave, and if your party is all legal drinking age, you can even book a daytime rum tasting experience.
Beach enthusiasts will want to hit up both Bathsheba.
Photo by Styve Reineck on Shutterstock
Beach enthusiasts will want to hit up both Bathsheba and Carlisle Bay, which offer experiences like snorkeling and scuba diving, while giving you the chance to spot marine life. While July and August are considered part of Barbados’ wet season, meaning you won’t see the highest temperatures, you can still expect warm daily temperatures to be around 28 to 30 °C.
4. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Budget Accommodation: Windsor Palace Copacabana
- Luxury Accommodation: Copacabana Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Rio de Janeiro
- For Groups: Radisson Barra Rio De Janeiro
If you’re looking to head south in 2026, it’s hard to overlook Brazil. It’s been named as one of the top destinations by everyone from National Geographic to Travel & Leisure. You can curate an events itinerary to suit every member of your party, if you’re a couple on your honeymoon or friends organizing a group trip. You’ll find plenty to do in downtown Rio, if you’re looking for daytime tours or somewhere to enjoy a quiet cocktail with stunning views.
Must-see attractions include Christ the Redeemer.
Photo by Jason Heid on Shutterstock
Must-see attractions include Christ the Redeemer and the Escadaria Selaron steps. You’ll get some of the most scenic views over Rio de Janeiro by taking a cable car up Sugarloaf Mountain, but if you want to experience a taste of the Brazilian lifestyle, allocate at least an afternoon to Copacabana beach and the surrounding neighborhoods. Make sure to get down to the beach early if you want to grab one of the most sought-after spots for soaking up the sun, so you can enjoy watching the waves roll in.
Book your summer 2026 vacation with ZenHotels
At ZenHotels, we’re here to help plan your summer 2026 getaway, whether you’re jetting off to the USA, relaxing by the lakes, or heading to sunny coastal European spots. Are you looking for more options for 2026? Discover top destinations on ZenHotels and get more expert-curated tips by checking out our blog.
