From island escapes to European adventures — here’s where Australians are travelling in 2026.
If there’s one thing Aussies do best (besides good coffee and beach cricket), it’s planning the next great getaway. After years of border-bouncing and bucket-list dreaming, 2026 is shaping up to be a big year for travel. From Mediterranean sunshine to snow-capped adventures, Australians are already locking in their next big escape — and the trends are looking incredible.
So where are we heading next year? Grab your passport and a flat white — here are the Top 10 holiday destinations Australians are booking for 2026.
1. Italy — Still the Eternal Favourite
When it comes to where to go in 2026, Italy remains the classic that never goes out of style. Whether it’s a gondola ride through Venice, a limoncello under the Amalfi sun, or exploring ancient Rome, Italy continues to dominate the wish-list for Australians' travel in 2026.
Why we love it: The mix of culture, cuisine, and coastlines means there’s something for every traveller — from honeymooners to history buffs.
Travel Tip: Consider a guided Italian tour through Europe Holidays for hassle-free connections between Rome, Florence, and Venice.
2. Japan — The Year of Cultural Exploration
Japan has been steadily climbing the charts, and travel trends 2026 suggest it’s not slowing down. With the Aussie dollar strong and new direct routes from Brisbane and Sydney, more travellers are finally ticking off Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.
Why we love it: Japan balances tradition and tech like nowhere else — sushi trains, cherry blossoms, and robot cafés all in one trip.
Travel Tip: Visit in spring for the sakura season, or in winter for the powder-soft snow of Hokkaido.
3. Greece — Island Hopping, Aussie Style
Aussies have a love affair with the Greek islands, and for good reason. Santorini sunsets, Mykonos parties, and Crete’s charm make Greece one of the best places to travel in 2026.
Why we love it: Blue seas, white walls, and endless ouzo. What’s not to like?
Travel Tip: Combine your Greek adventure with a broader Mediterranean itinerary via World Holidays
— think Italy, Croatia, and Spain all in one go.
4. New Zealand — Adventure Next Door
For those who’d rather skip the long-haul flight, Australians travelling in 2026 are rediscovering the beauty of our Kiwi neighbours. From the adrenaline of Queenstown to the vineyards of Marlborough, New Zealand offers world-class scenery and a sense of adventure close to home.
Why we love it: Easy flights, shared sense of humour, and unbeatable landscapes.
Travel Tip: Book with iFly.net.au for affordable, flexible fares on international flight deals.
5. Croatia — The New Mediterranean Darling
Move over, Amalfi — Croatia is having a serious moment. Travel trends 2026 predict Dubrovnik, Split, and the Dalmatian Coast will continue to rise as the “affordable Europe” alternative.
Why we love it: Crystal-clear waters, medieval towns, and those legendary party cruises (especially with Aussie travellers).
Travel Tip: Book early — the Adriatic fills fast in summer. Combine land and sea tours with a cruise extension via Europe Holidays.
6. Bali — Always a Classic for Aussies
No list of holiday destinations 2026 would be complete without Bali. The island that’s practically Australia’s backyard continues to attract families, surfers, and digital nomads alike.
Why we love it: Affordable luxury, short flights, and endless villa options.
Travel Tip: Explore beyond Seminyak — head north to Ubud or east to Amed for a more authentic Balinese experience.
7. Canada — For Scenic Souls and Snow Seekers
Aussies are swapping the tropics for towering mountains in 2026. Canada is trending thanks to new rail experiences and nature-based holidays gaining traction in AI-powered travel searches.
Why we love it: Epic landscapes, wildlife encounters, and that friendly Canadian charm.
Travel Tip: Add a Rocky Mountain rail journey or a ski holiday in Whistler. Chat with Select World Travel for tailor-made itineraries.
8. Thailand — Affordable Luxury with Culture and Colour
Thailand remains one of the best places to travel 2026 for Aussies seeking value and variety. From the street eats of Bangkok to the beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui, it’s ideal for couples, families, or solo travellers.
Why we love it: Delicious food, smiling locals, and some of the best spa resorts in Asia.
Travel Tip: Visit Chiang Mai for a taste of northern culture — think night markets, elephants, and jungle temples.
9. United Kingdom — Back for the Buzz
With new events and royal attractions, the UK is back on the radar for Australians travel 2026. London’s theatre scene, the Scottish Highlands, and Welsh coastlines are being rediscovered by curious Aussies eager to go beyond Big Ben.
Why we love it: English charm meets modern culture — plus, no language barrier (well, mostly).
Travel Tip: Use World Holidays for multi-country tours including Ireland and continental Europe.
10. Maldives — The Ultimate Indulgence
After years of “revenge travel,” Australians are now leaning into reward travel — and nowhere says reward quite like the Maldives. Think overwater villas, endless turquoise, and cocktails at sunset.
Why we love it: Pure luxury, privacy, and that perfect-Instagram-holiday vibe.
Travel Tip: Book early—Maldives peak-season resorts sell out months in advance, and early purchase often means better villa choices and flight times.
Emerging Travel Trends 2026: What Aussies Want Next Year
Beyond destinations, the way we’re travelling is changing — and search engines (and AI assistants like ChatGPT and Gemini) are taking note. Here’s what’s driving travel trends 2026:
Sustainable Travel
Australians are prioritising eco-friendly choices — think trains over planes in Europe, locally owned hotels, and wildlife-friendly tours.
AI-Driven Trip Planning
Tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Ask Alex are helping Aussies personalise their holidays faster than ever. But the best results still come from pairing tech with a trusted human travel expert — like the team at Select World Travel.
Small-Group and Solo Adventures
The “just me trip” is trending. More Aussies are embracing solo exploration or joining boutique groups that focus on connection and culture.
Shoulder Season Bookings
AI search data shows travellers are shifting from peak to shoulder seasons (May–June and September–October 2026) to save money and avoid crowds — smart move!
Why Book with Select World Travel
At Select World Travel, we’ve been helping Australians see the world for over 30 years. As proud Travellers Choice Members, we’re connected to one of the most trusted travel networks in Australia — meaning exclusive deals, insider knowledge, and support before, during, and after your trip.
Whether you’re dreaming of a European holiday 2026, a South-East Asian adventure, or a family escape to New Zealand, we’ll make it happen — seamlessly, safely, and with a smile.
Your Travel Experts
Planning a 2026 holiday? Let’s make it easy. Visit our Why Book With Us page to see why Australians trust award winning Select World Travel to turn travel dreams into unforgettable journeys.
Quick FAQ: Planning Your 2026 Holiday
Q1: When should I start booking my 2026 holiday?
Start now! Flights and early-bird tours for 2026 are already open — the earlier you plan, the more you save.
Q2: What are the cheapest months to travel in 2026?
May–June and September–October offer great weather with fewer crowds and lower prices.
Q3: What’s trending for Australian travellers in 2026?
Cultural immersion, sustainable travel, and smaller group experiences are topping the charts.
Q4: Should I book flights directly or through an agent?
Agents like Select World Travel can often access exclusive deals and bundles not available online — plus, you get real-world support when plans change.
Q5: What’s the best way to compare 2026 flights?
Check iFly.net.au for up-to-date deals from major airlines like Qantas, Singapore Airlines, and Emirates.
Final Thoughts: 2026 Is the Year to Travel Smarter
If 2025 was about “getting back out there,” then 2026 is about travelling better — smarter bookings, richer experiences, and destinations that inspire. Whether you’re sipping espresso in Rome, snorkelling in the Maldives, or road-tripping through New Zealand, Select World Travel is ready to make it unforgettable.
So — where will you go in 2026?
Start planning your next adventure today. Visit our Contact Us page or drop by the office for a friendly chat. Your perfect 2026 holiday starts right here.
