From Sri Lanka to Albania: The 5 Fastest-Growing Destinations of 2026
The thought of travelling to Paris, Santorini, or Florida might be off-putting now, as they tend to be overpriced and overcrowded.
For this reason, more travellers are leaning towards high-end, lesser-known, and more affordable destinations.
To enjoy an unforgettable getaway without depleting your bank balance, turn your attention to spots that have been rising in popularity in recent years. It will ensure you look back on your getaway with a huge smile and many fantastic memories.
Continue reading to learn about the five fastest-growing destinations of 2026, from Sri Lanka to Albania.
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1. Gozo
The Best Time to Visit: May to September (the shoulder season)
According to The Guardian, Gozo has received a whopping 1,900% increase in online searches year on year, making it the fastest-rising destination of 2026.
Gozo is a picturesque island retreat from Malta, with authentic limestone farmhouses and a peaceful, rural atmosphere.
It provides a slower pace of life, and you’ll be surrounded by a rugged backdrop with stunning stone-walled fields and flat-topped hills.
History lovers will never forget a visit to Gozo. It is home to Ggantija Temples dating back to 3600 BC that are designated UNESCO World Heritage sites. Legend has it that the ancient temples, which are older than the Pyramids of Giza, were built by giants, leading to their name Ggantija.
No trip to Gozo is complete until you’ve reached the top of the Ciutadella. It is a recently restored fortified city on the highest hill, providing an unobstructed 360-degree view of the picture-perfect island.
The food alone is worth the effort, as the rural setting will allow you to enjoy ample farm-to-table experiences. For instance, you can indulge in Gozo Ftira, a pizza-style sourdough topped with fresh, local gbejna (goat cheese), potatoes, and capers.
2. Sri Lanka
The Best Time to Visit: January to March (peak season)
The Guardian also reported that Sri Lanka has experienced a 605% increase in online searches, climbing 44 places in the global rankings. It is one of the best up and coming holiday spots to visit.
If you have never visited Sri Lanka before, you might be wondering why it’s proving so popular with UK holidaymakers, especially for “quietcations.”
Part of its appeal is due to the revived Northern Circuit, which is helping to showcase another side of the island’s rich culture.
Once hidden from tourism, the beautiful region has recently opened to the public, with many eager to visit to absorb its untouched coastlines, distinctive culinary traditions, and ancient Hindu temples.
The Northern Circuit isn’t the only reason to visit Sri Lanka. It’s a must-visit for animal lovers, as it is arguably one of the best destinations to visit for unique wildlife experiences.
Often referred to as the Serengeti of Asia, visitors will never forget a wildlife safari at Yala or Wilpattu National Parks, which offers the highest density of leopards on the planet.
If you would love to watch elephants in their natural habitat, roaming, bathing, and socialising together, don’t miss the Elephant Gathering in Minneriya National Park. You also will never regret whale or dolphin watching at Kalpitiya or Mirissa from November to May.
3. Albania
The Best Time to Visit: June or September (the shoulder season)
Many people are swapping Greece for Albania, as it allows them to enjoy the beauty of the Ionian Sea while slashing the cost of a getaway.
As more people are visiting Albania throughout the year, its economy is projected to grow by 4% in 2026.
The Albanian Rivieria is proving to be a huge part of its appeal, as people are booking trips to breathe in the beauty of Himara and Ksamil.
It’s also becoming a must-visit for culture vultures. Visitors can explore the historic towns of Gjirokaster and Berat, which have earned UNESCO World Heritage Status, allowing them to learn more about Ottoman history.
Albania is bordered by Montenegro, which is helping to support its growing popularity, as it’s also experiencing a tourism boom, especially in the Bay of Kotor.
4. Kyrgyzstan
The Best Time to Visit: June to August (peak trekking season)
Offering dramatic mountains and stunning lakes, Kyrgyzstan has been affectionately coined the Switzerland of Central Asia.
You only need to set your sights on the stunning landscape to see why it is expected to be one of the fastest-growing destinations of 2026.
After all, it is home to Issyk-Kul Lake, the world’s second-largest alpine lake, which never freezes due to its naturally warm temperature. It’s also surrounded by mesmerising snow-capped mountains that will take your breath away.
Once the sun goes down, you can sleep in a yurt at one of the lake’s many camps, such as Flex Travel Yurt Camp or Son-Kul Yurt Camp.
Its stargazing opportunities have made it a top choice for astrotourism. You’ll bed down for the night on a traditional mat or a low wooden bed under the stars, with a wood-burning stove keeping you warm and cosy for the night.
Tourists can also enjoy a more authentic travel experience at Son-Kul Lake, as nomadic herders regularly open their doors to guests eager to experience the real side of Kyrgyzstan.
If you choose to stay in the beautiful capital of Bishkek, consider a 40-minute trip to Ala-Archa National Park, which is well-regarded for its varied trekking routes and gorgeous glaciers.
If you love the thought of visiting Kyrgyzstan this year, we recommend timing your visit for the World Nomad Games, which are scheduled to run from the 31st August to 6th September 2026.
5. South Korea
The Best Time to Visit: April (Cherry Blossom season)
More than 20 million people from around the world are projected to visit South Korea in 2026.
While the rise of K-pop has played a huge role in the country’s booming tourism industry, the significant growth is also due to travellers hoping to combine authentic trips with high-tech tours.
It’s not only Seoul that’s a big draw for many, as Busan, the second-biggest city in South Korea, is rising in popularity. Many are booking flights to soak up its beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, atmospheric seafood markets, and infectious film culture.
Known as the “Santorini of Korea,” you can trust the sight of Busan’s Gamcheon Culture Village will remain with you long after your holiday is over, as it is home to brightly coloured houses, creative street murals, and narrow alleyways. For this reason, it has become a hotspot for photographs in Asia.
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