Planning a holiday in 2027? National Geographic’s annual Best of the World selection highlights destinations where exciting cultural developments, major celebrations, new attractions and natural experiences give travellers fresh reasons to explore.
The latest list covers 25 destinations across six continents, bringing together well-known cities, lesser-visited regions and places experiencing important transformations.
From Norway’s dramatic fjords and India’s historic Pink City to new wildlife experiences in Malawi and archaeological discoveries in Peru, the selection offers something for different kinds of travellers.
Rather than focusing only on traditional tourist hotspots, it also encourages visitors to explore local communities, heritage, food and nature.
1. Vestland, Norway
Vestland is an excellent destination for travellers who enjoy dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventures. Located in southwestern Norway, the region is known for its spectacular fjords, towering cliffs, waterfalls and glaciers.
See more of our coverage in your search results.
Visitors can explore Hardangerfjord, visit Folgefonna National Park and hike to the famous Trolltunga rock formation. The Nærøyfjord offers opportunities for kayaking and boat trips, while Bergen provides a cultural experience through its historic Bryggen waterfront and excellent Nordic food.
2. Penang, Malaysia
Penang combines tropical nature, heritage architecture and one of Southeast Asia’s most celebrated food cultures. George Town, its historic capital, is particularly popular for its colourful streets, traditional shophouses, temples and diverse culinary traditions.
In 2027, a new cable car is expected to connect the Penang Botanic Gardens with Penang Hill, offering visitors easier access to rainforest views. Travellers can also explore mangrove habitats, visit local farms and experience the region’s distinctive Cantonese and Peranakan food culture.
3. Luxor, Egypt
Luxor is one of the world’s most remarkable destinations for anyone interested in ancient history. Often described as an open-air museum, the Egyptian city is home to extraordinary archaeological sites, including Karnak Temple, Luxor Temple and the Valley of the Kings.
A major attraction in 2027 will be the total solar eclipse on 2 August, which is expected to bring more than six minutes of totality to the area. The reopening of the historic Winter Palace hotel and the introduction of a luxury sleeper train connecting Cairo and Aswan also add fresh reasons to visit.
4. Madison, United States
Madison, Wisconsin, offers a relaxed combination of lakeside scenery, cycling, food and cultural attractions. Located between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, the city has numerous parks, walking trails and cycling routes.
Visitors can explore the lakeside neighbourhoods, enjoy the Dane County Farmers Market and discover local restaurants serving regional and international cuisine. The new Madison Public Market also adds another attraction for food lovers, while upcoming waterfront improvements will create more opportunities to enjoy the city’s outdoor spaces.
5. Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico offers a fascinating blend of Caribbean landscapes, music, food and cultural heritage. Its identity reflects Indigenous Taíno, West African and Spanish influences, which visitors can discover through historic sites, local festivals and traditional communities.
Loíza is an important destination for experiencing Afro-Puerto Rican culture, particularly its bomba and plena music traditions. Travellers can also explore Old San Juan, visit historic Spanish fortifications and follow the Taíno Route to discover archaeological sites and ancient rock carvings.
6. Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
Dumfries and Galloway is a quieter corner of Scotland, offering beautiful countryside, historic castles and some of the country’s most impressive dark skies.
The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory is expected to open in 2027, giving visitors new opportunities to explore the night sky. Outdoor enthusiasts can also enjoy mountain biking routes and the Rhins of Galloway Coast Path, while history lovers can visit Caerlaverock Castle and locations associated with poet Robert Burns.
7. Niigata Prefecture, Japan
Niigata is an appealing destination for travellers interested in Japanese food, art and rural culture. Located along the Sea of Japan, the prefecture is known for its heavy snowfall, sake production and traditional fermentation techniques.
The 2027 Echigo Tsumari Art Triennale will bring large-scale installations to villages, rice fields, abandoned schools and mountain tunnels. Visitors can also explore the region’s sake breweries, taste local miso and soy sauce, and experience its distinctive food traditions.
8. Chengdu, China
Chengdu is famous for its giant pandas and spicy Sichuan cuisine, but its archaeological heritage makes it particularly interesting in 2027. The year marks the centenary of the discovery of the ancient Shu kingdom, a Bronze Age civilisation whose history is being uncovered through ongoing archaeological work.
The Sanxingdui Museum displays extraordinary discoveries, including gold masks and bronze sculptures. The Jinsha Site Museum is also expected to reopen after renovation. Beyond history, Chengdu offers a lively food scene, traditional teahouses and performances of Sichuan opera.
9. California’s Pacific Coast Highway, United States
California’s Pacific Coast Highway is a classic road trip route, offering spectacular coastal scenery and access to communities with strong artistic identities.
With its iconic stretch near Big Sur reopened following years of disruption, travellers can explore more of the coastline. Stops include Laguna Beach, Lompoc, Harmony and Mendocino County, where art galleries, murals, small independent businesses and coastal landscapes provide plenty of reasons to take the slower route.
10. Jaipur, India
Jaipur is among India’s most recognisable cultural destinations, known for its pink-hued architecture, royal palaces, historic forts and traditional crafts. In 2027, the city will celebrate its 300th anniversary, making it an especially interesting year to visit.
The Jaipur Literature Festival will also hold its 20th edition, bringing writers, thinkers and artists together. Visitors can explore Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal and Jantar Mantar, browse the markets of Johari Bazaar and Chandpole Bazaar, and discover traditional block printing and meenakari craftsmanship.
11. Grenada
Known as the Spice Isle, Grenada is a Caribbean destination where fragrant spice plantations, beaches and colourful cultural traditions come together.
The country’s Spicemas carnival will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2027, with street parades, steelpan performances, calypso competitions and lively celebrations. Visitors can also explore geothermal bathing pools, enjoy wellness experiences near waterfalls and relax along the island’s beaches.
12. Salvador, Brazil
Salvador is one of Brazil’s most culturally significant cities, with a strong Afro-Brazilian identity reflected in its music, cuisine, religion and architecture.
In 2027, the coincidence of Carnival and the Festa de Iemanjá will make the city particularly exciting to visit. Travellers can experience samba-reggae performances, capoeira and colourful street celebrations while exploring the historic Pelourinho district. The city’s traditional acarajé and contemporary Afro-Brazilian restaurants are also worth discovering.
13. Cape Froward, Chile
Cape Froward, located at the southernmost point of mainland South America, is set to become a new national park in 2027. Its remote landscapes and subantarctic environment make it an appealing destination for adventurous travellers.
Visitors can explore rugged coastal trails, forests and mountain scenery, with opportunities to spot wildlife and learn about the region’s history. Hiking routes lead towards the San Isidro Lighthouse and Mount Tarn, while longer guided adventures offer access to the Cruz de los Mares monument.
14. Cantabria, Spain
Cantabria is a coastal region in northern Spain that combines beaches, historic architecture, excellent seafood and an emerging cultural scene.
Its capital, Santander, is preparing for major museum developments in 2027, including an outpost of Madrid’s Museo Reina Sofía. Visitors can explore the city’s beaches, waterfront and historic gardens while enjoying local specialities such as rabas, or fried squid. The new cultural attractions are expected to give the region greater international attention.
15. Normandy, France
Normandy will be an important destination for history and culture enthusiasts in 2027 as the region marks 1,000 years since the birth of William the Conqueror.
The Millennium 2027 celebrations will include concerts, medieval events, exhibitions and performances across the region. Visitors can explore Caen’s historic abbeys, the Bayeux Tapestry, Mont-Saint-Michel and the D-Day memorial sites. Normandy’s coastal scenery, traditional villages and celebrated food culture add to its appeal.
16. The Ozarks, United States
Stretching across parts of Arkansas and Missouri, the Ozarks offer an impressive combination of forests, valleys, rivers and outdoor activities.
Bentonville is a major attraction for art lovers, thanks to the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. The region also offers mountain biking, hiking and wildlife experiences, including visits to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. Families can explore Big Cedar Lodge, while adventure seekers can enjoy the area’s expanding network of trails.
17. Halifax, Canada
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a coastal city with a rich mix of Indigenous, African and European heritage.
A major development in 2027 will be the opening of the Wije’winen/Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre, which will provide opportunities to learn about Mi’kmaw culture and traditions. Visitors can also explore Africville, discover Canada’s immigration history at Pier 21 and enjoy the city’s historic waterfront.
18. Armenia
Armenia is an increasingly attractive destination for hikers and travellers interested in mountain landscapes and ancient heritage. Its scenery includes volcanic peaks, alpine valleys, medieval monasteries and historic Silk Road routes.
The developing Transcaucasian Trail is making it easier to explore the country’s remote regions. Visitors can discover Mount Azhdahak, the wine-producing region of Vayots Dzor and traditional villages where homestays offer an opportunity to experience local food and culture.
19. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne remains one of Australia’s most appealing cities, with a diverse food scene, thriving arts culture, sporting events and attractive neighbourhoods.
The Queen Victoria Market is a popular destination for food lovers, while Smith Street offers an impressive range of international cuisines. In 2027, visitors will also have new reasons to explore the Great Victorian Bathing Trail, which connects coastal bathing destinations across Victoria. The city will additionally host Rugby World Cup matches.
20. Leipzig, Germany
Leipzig is an ideal destination for music lovers, with a cultural history connected to composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach, Felix Mendelssohn and Richard Wagner.
The city will celebrate several important musical anniversaries in 2027, including the 300th anniversary of Bach’s St. Matthew Passion and the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s death. Visitors can explore historic concert venues, attend festivals and discover the city’s lively jazz and contemporary music scenes.
21. Baltimore, United States
Baltimore will celebrate the bicentenary of American railroading in 2027, making it a particularly interesting destination for history enthusiasts.
The National Museum of Railroad History and Innovation is preparing major developments, including expanded exhibitions and interactive displays. Visitors can also explore the Inner Harbor, the National Aquarium, historic markets and Fort McHenry, which inspired the American national anthem.
22. Malawi
Malawi offers a quieter alternative to some of Africa’s busier safari destinations. Its national parks and wildlife reserves have benefited from conservation efforts, creating new opportunities to experience the country’s natural environment.
Liwonde National Park and Majete Wildlife Reserve are home to the Big Five, while Lake Malawi offers opportunities for kayaking, sailing and snorkelling. Travellers can also hike Mount Mulanje, a spectacular mountain landscape with waterfalls, forests and challenging trails.
23. Maya Ka’an, Mexico
Maya Ka’an, in Mexico’s Quintana Roo state, offers an alternative to the heavily developed resort areas of the Riviera Maya. Its appeal lies in community-led tourism, Indigenous heritage and protected natural landscapes.
Visitors can explore cenotes, mangroves and lagoons, stay in local homestays and learn about traditional Maya food and crafts. The region also offers opportunities for wildlife watching, kayaking and guided rainforest experiences, with local communities playing an important role in tourism activities.
24. Poland’s Tricity Region
The Polish Baltic coast’s Tricity region brings together Gdańsk, Sopot and Gdynia, three neighbouring cities with distinct identities.
Gdańsk is known for its maritime history and historic architecture, Sopot for its seaside atmosphere, and Gdynia for its modernist design. In 2027, the region will host major sailing events, while festivals, cultural venues and a growing food scene provide further reasons to visit.
25. Northern Peru, Peru
Northern Peru offers an exciting archaeological experience centred on the ancient Chachapoya civilisation. Its most important attraction is Kuélap, a remarkable fortress surrounded by cloud forests and mountain scenery.
New trails and exhibitions planned for 2027 will allow visitors to explore additional archaeological discoveries and previously inaccessible areas. Travellers can also visit nearby waterfalls, discover ancient burial sites and learn more about the people known as the Warriors of the Clouds.
Bottom Line
National Geographic’s Best of the World 2027 selection offers a diverse collection of destinations, from Norway’s fjords and Japan’s cultural landscapes to the archaeological sites of Peru and the historic streets of Jaipur. Several locations are particularly appealing because of major events, new attractions and cultural developments planned for the year.
For Indian travellers, Jaipur provides a convenient domestic option, while destinations such as Penang, Melbourne, Armenia and Luxor offer very different international experiences. Whether the priority is adventure, history, food or nature, the 2027 selection provides plenty of inspiration for planning the next holiday.
How many destinations are included in National Geographic’s Best of the World 2027 list?
National Geographic’s 2027 selection features 25 destinations across six continents.
Which Indian destination is featured in National Geographic’s 2027 list?
Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, is included in the selection. The city will celebrate its 300th anniversary in 2027 and host the 20th edition of the Jaipur Literature Festival.
What makes the 2027 destinations special?
The destinations have been selected for reasons including cultural celebrations, new attractions, natural experiences, heritage projects and developments that offer travellers fresh reasons to visit.
