The 20 best places to travel in 2026

Oulu, Finland

Why go: An Arctic city in full creative bloom for its 2026 Capital of Culture year

Located just below the Arctic Circle, Oulu is stepping into the spotlight in 2026 as one of Europe’s Capitals of Culture – a milestone that promises to reshape how travellers see the quieter north of Finland. This accolade just adds to its growing list: the city already hosts the World Air Guitar Championships and is the self-declared winter-cycling capital of the world.

From January, the city and surrounding villages will host a year-long cultural programme that feels more like an evolving festival, with parties, pop-up performances, art installations and exhibitions. One highlight is the Arctic Food Lab, which brings Oulu’s Nordic-Arctic flavours to the fore through tastings and special dinners showcasing ingredients shaped by the region’s extreme soil and seasons. Another centrepiece is Climate Clock, a seven-piece public art trail created by leading Finnish and international artists in collaboration with scientists. Each installation reflects themes of creativity, climate change and our connection to “nature’s time”, echoing the city’s broader effort to encourage slower, more mindful travel. 

Beyond the cultural programme, there are windswept islands to explore, sunset walks beside lighthouses and – of course – the quintessential Finnish sauna culture. In 2026, the region’s blend of frontier nature, Arctic heritage and cutting-edge creativity makes this low-key northern hub one of Europe’s most intriguing destinations. – Laura Hall

Getty Images

Philadelphia, US

Why go: The US’s 250th celebration and a big year for sports 

The United States was born in Philadelphia on 4 July 1776. In 2026, the city again takes centre stage as it celebrates the nation’s 250th anniversary with a year-long programme of history, sport and art.

A major highlight is 52 Weeks of Firsts, a citywide series marking 250 years of Philadelphia’s pioneering spirit. Each Saturday, a different neighbourhood hosts a “First-ival” celebrating a Philly innovation or landmark – from the invention of bifocals to the founding of Mother Bethel AME Church, the oldest parcel of land in continuous African American ownership. Talks, performances and on-site activations bring these milestones to life where they first occurred.

From February to September 2026, The Franklin Institute hosts the Universal Theme Parks exhibition, offering travellers behind-the-scenes insight into the engineering and design of one of the world’s most popular theme parks.

Elsewhere, Mural Arts Philadelphia, the nation’s largest public art organisation, will run more than 50 artist-led workshops as part of Printmaking by the People, where visitors can join free events and help inspire a new mural reflecting what democracy means today. Guided mural tours led by local artists directly fund community art programmes and education initiatives.