The Top Travel Destinations for 2026

2026 is the year to tick off some places on your bucket list. The coming year promises to be a golden age of travel, where the thrill of discovery meets a renewed appreciation for culture and the natural world.

Lonely Planet have just announced their picks for the best travel destinations for 2026, from Canada’s wild Pacific coastlines to the picturesque shores of the Mediterranean. In light of this, here's what to expect and how to reach each of these remarkable destinations by ferry.

Cadiz, Spain

Few cities capture the rhythm of the sea and the warmth of southern Spain quite like Cádiz. Believed to be one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Cádiz is a mesmerizing mix of history, sunshine, and local soul. Within its honey-colored walls, you’ll discover lively plazas and narrow streets scented with fried fish and sea breeze, and sunsets that will take your breath away.

The old town feels suspended in time, with its ancient ramparts, baroque churches, and whitewashed houses looking out over sparkling waves. In 2026, Cádiz continues to shine as a more authentic alternative to Spain’s larger coastal cities, where tapas bars spill into the streets and the sound of laughter mingles with the cry of seagulls.

How to Get to Cádiz by Ferry

Cádiz remains one of southern Spain’s most important ferry ports, linking Europe to North Africa and the Canary Islands. It’s a perfect hub for travelers who love to arrive by sea or combine destinations.

Main ferry routes to Cádiz (as of 2026):

• Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (Canary Islands) to Cadiz Ferry – operated by Naviera Armas / Trasmediterránea, approx. 36–40 hours
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands) to Cadiz Ferry – Naviera Armas / Trasmediterránea, approx. 40 hours
• Arrecife (Lanzarote) to Cadiz Ferry – Naviera Armas, approx. 30 hours
• Puerto del Rosario (Fuerteventura) to Cadiz Ferry – Naviera Armas, approx. 32 hours

These long-distance ferries offer cabin options, dining, and the opportunity to bring your vehicle onboard, making travel in mainland Spain even more straightforward when you arrive.

Finland

This northern wonderland invites you into a world of forest silence, mirror-like lakes, and skies that dance with the Northern Lights throughout the winter and the Midnight Sun throughout the summer. 

In 2026, Finland is the destination for travelers looking for dramatic landscapes and a stunning array of wilderness. Wander through Helsinki’s sleek Nordic architecture and vibrant food scene, kayak across tranquil lakes in Lakeland, or embrace Arctic adventure in Lapland, where reindeer roam beneath shimmering auroras.

How to Get to Finland by Ferry

Finland’s convenient location makes ferry travel both practical and scenic, connecting its ports to the Baltic Sea’s cultural capitals.

Main ferry routes to Finland:

• Tallinn (Estonia) to Helsinki Ferry – Tallink Silja Line, Viking Line, Eckerö Line, 2–2.5 hours (very frequent daily crossings)
• Stockholm (Sweden) to Helsinki Ferry – Viking Line, Tallink Silja Line, overnight or day sailings 17 hours
• Stockholm (Sweden) to Turku Ferry – Viking Line, Tallink Silja Line, 11 hours
• Kapellskär (Sweden) to Naantali Ferry – Finnlines, 9 hours 
   

These routes make it easy to combine Finland with the rest of Scandinavia and the Baltic region, offering sea voyages through some of Europe’s most serene waters.

Vancouver Island (British Columbia, Canada)

Located along the western edge of Canada, Vancouver Island is a destination where untamed wilderness and tranquil coastal culture meet in perfect harmony. This idyllic island has everything from mist-shrouded rainforests and jagged shorelines to peaceful harbors, both remote and remarkably refined. This is where you will find storm-watchers on rugged beaches as waves thunder against towering cliffs, while just a few hours away, café-lined streets hum with creativity and west-coast charm.

In 2026, Vancouver Island stands out as one of the world’s most rewarding journeys for travelers who are searching for a balance between nature and effortless comfort. The island’s network of ferry routes, particularly the BC Ferries crossing from Vancouver to Victoria, sets the tone for an adventure that begins before you even arrive. Watching the mainland disappear into the horizon as orcas and sea lions glide through the Strait of Georgia is a fitting introduction to a destination defined by its connection to the sea.

How to get to British Columbia by Ferry

Arriving in British Columbia by ferry is one of the most scenic travel experiences in North America. The province’s vast coastline and network of islands are linked by BC Ferries, one of the world’s largest and most efficient ferry systems. Whether you’re heading to Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, or the Southern Gulf Islands, ferry travel is an essential part of the British Columbia experience.

Main ferry routes to British Columbia:

• Seattle to Victoria Ferry – FRS Clipper, 3 hours (up to 5 weekly sailings)

Sardinia, Italy

There's a reason why Sardinia is one of Italy's most popular holiday destinations. Its coastline is a mosaic of turquoise coves, ancient towers, and windswept beaches where the Mediterranean feels wild and untamed. The island tells a different story further inland, with shepherd villages, mysterious Bronze Age nuraghe ruins, and mountainous trails that cut through valleys of myrtle and rosemary. 

The capital, Cagliari, charms with pastel façades and lively piazzas, while the Costa Smeralda glitters with luxury marinas and crystalline bays. In 2026, Sardinia continues to attract both adventurers and romantics, offering everything from hiking and sailing to traditional food festivals where locals gather to celebrate.

How to Get to Sardinia by Ferry

Sardinia is one of the Mediterranean’s best-connected islands by sea, making it an ideal destination for travelers who prefer ferry travel or want to bring their vehicle with them. Several ports in mainland Italy and France offer frequent crossings to multiple Sardinian destinations.

Main ferry routes to Sardinia:

• Genoa to Olbia Ferry / Porto Torres – Moby Lines, Grandi Navi Veloci (GNV), 10–12 hours (overnight sailings are available)
• Livorno to Olbia Ferry / Golfo Aranci – Moby Lines, Grimaldi Lines, Corsica Sardinia Ferries, 8–10 hours
• Civitavecchia (Rome) to Cagliari Ferry / Olbia / Arbatax / Porto Torres – Grimaldi Lines, Tirrenia, 7–14 hours depending on route
• Naples to Cagliari Ferry / Palermo (via Sardinia) – Grimaldi Lines, 13–15 hours

These crossings make Sardinia a perfect stop on an extended Mediterranean ferry journey.

Jeju, South Korea

Set adrift in the Korea Strait, Jeju Island is a world apart from mainland South Korea. Lush forests and wild coastlines come together on this volcanic island to form a tranquil paradise with luxury resorts and historic temples. Known locally as the “Island of the Gods,” Jeju is rich in history and admired for its natural beauty. 

You can hike to the summit of Hallasan, South Korea’s highest peak, and marvel over a sea of clouds. You can also explore the island’s honeycombed lava caves, which have been UNESCO-listed for their geological wonder. If you have the time, you can walk the Olle Trails, a network of coastal paths winding through tangerine orchards, fishing villages, and black-stone beaches.

How to Get to Jeju by Ferry

While many visitors travel by plane, arriving on Jeju Island by ferry is an experience that will live long in the memory, offering sweeping views of Korea’s coastline and the open sea. Modern ferries connect Jeju with several major ports across the Korean Peninsula, allowing you to bring your own car onboard. The voyages range from short regional hops to longer overnight sailings that enable travelers to relax, dine, and enjoy the journey before setting foot on Jeju’s volcanic shores.

Main ferry routes to Jeju Island:

• Mokpo to Jeju Ferry – Seaworld Express Ferry and Hanil Express, 4.5 to 5 hours
• Nokdong to Jeju Ferry – Namhae Gosok Ferry, 3 hours and 30 minutes 
• Wando to Jeju Ferry – Hanil Express, 3 hours

Peru, South America

There aren’t many countries that offer the depth of experience that Peru does. From the sacred peaks of the Andes to the lush expanse of the Amazon, Peru feels like several worlds bundled into one. It’s a land of enduring mystery, where ancient civilizations have left their mark in history and modern travelers can immerse themselves in a culture like no other.

Machu Picchu remains the country’s spiritual crown, but Peru’s magic stretches far beyond the famous Inca citadel. The reborn capital Lima has become one of Latin America’s top culinary capitals, blending innovation with Indigenous roots in world-class restaurants and vibrant street food markets. In the Sacred Valley, travelers can trek through highland villages where Quechua traditions are still frequently practiced, while the ancient city of Cusco continues to enchant to this very day.

Best Things to do in Peru

• Discover the Lost City of Machu Picchu
• Wander the Ancient Streets of Cusco (San Pedro Market and Plaza de Armas)
• Immerse Yourself in the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo, Moray and Maras to see extraordinary circular agricultural terraces and salt pans)
• Cruise the Mirror Waters of Lake Titicaca
• Explore the Amazon Rainforest (Puerto Maldonado, Tambopata River and Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve)

If you wish to find out more about this region, please read our Ultimate South America Guide.

Phuket, Thailand

Last but not least is Phuket. Celebrated for its tropical beauty, Phuket is stepping into 2026 with a refreshed sense of identity. Once known mainly for its nightlife and resort scene, the island is now rebranding itself as a destination where travelers of all ages can reconnect with nature and experience authentic Thai hospitality.

What makes Phuket so popular among tourists is its accessibility and convenience. Ferries connect Phuket to many nearby islands, including Phang Nga Bay, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Yao Noi, and Krabi, making it the perfect place to start your island-hopping adventure around Thailand. Whatever it is you’re looking for, Phuket should be the next destination on your bucket list.

If you are backpacking through Thailand, please also check out Full Moon Party Guide for more information.

What to do in Phuket

• Relax on Kata Noi, Nai Harn, and Freedom Beach
• Explore Old Phuket Town’s Sino-Portuguese architecture
• Take a boat trip to the Phi Phi Islands
• Visit the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong Temple
• Go island-hopping to Koh Yao Noi and Phang Nga Bay
• Enjoy the sunset at Promthep Cape
• Take a Thai cooking class with a local chef
• Snorkel or dive in the Similan Islands

How to get to Phuket by Ferry

The ferry to Phuket is one of the most beautiful ways to arrive in Thailand’s Andaman region. Surrounded by dozens of stunning islands, Phuket is a natural hub for ferry connections linking the region’s most iconic coastal destinations. Ferries range from high-speed catamarans to traditional wooden boats, with routes that suit both quick transfers and slow, scenic voyages.

Main ferry routes to Phuket (as of 2026):

• Phi Phi Islands (Tonsai Pier) to Phuket (Rassada Pier) Ferry – Andaman Wave Master, Phi Phi Cruiser, Bundhaya Speed Boat, 1.5 to 2 hours 
• Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier) to Phuket Ferry – Ao Nang Travel, Tigerline Ferry, 2 to 3 hours
• Koh Lanta (Saladan Pier) to Phuket Ferry – Bundhaya Speed Boat, Satun Pakbara, 3.5 to 4 hours

Book Your Dream Trip

As 2026 fast approaches, the time to start thinking about your next trip away. Whether you’re traveling across the Greek islands by ferry, tracing ancient footsteps through Peru’s Andes, or unwinding on the luxurious shores of Phuket, each journey offers an opportunity to rediscover the joy of the world. Book your ferry tickets today with Direct Ferries.