U.S. News Reveals the 2026 Best Vacations Rankings

U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels, Best Cruise Lines and Best Travel Rewards Programs, today released its annual rankings of the Best Vacations. The 2026 rankings highlight 18 regional destination categories to help travelers find the best place for their vacation.

World's Best Places to Visit
- Rome takes the No. 1 spot globally, thanks to restored landmarks, cultural significance, and strong traveler support.

Best Places to Visit in the USA
- Grand Canyon National Park tops the list with its iconic sunrises, rafting adventures, and challenging hikes.

Caribbean & Mexico
- Saint Lucia: Best Caribbean destination and also the Best Honeymoon Destination in the World (three-year streak).
- Isla Mujeres: Best place to visit in Mexico.

Canada & Europe
- Quebec City: Best place to visit in Canada.
- Scottish Highlands: Best place to visit in Europe.

Asia, Africa & South America
- Mount Fuji: Best place to visit in Asia.
- Victoria Falls: Best place to visit in Africa.
- Machu Picchu: Best place to visit in Central & South America.

Cities & Small Towns
- New York City: Best U.S. city to visit.
- Bar Harbor, Maine: Best small town in the U.S.

Affordable Vacations
- Grand Teton National Park: Best affordable U.S. vacation.
- Curaçao: Best affordable Caribbean vacation.
- Bratislava, Slovakia: Best affordable European vacation.

Romantic Getaways
- Saint Lucia: Best honeymoon destination worldwide.
- Maui: Best honeymoon destination in the U.S.
- Kaua'i: Best romantic getaway in the U.S.
- Texas Hill Country: Best affordable romantic getaway.

✨ The rankings highlight a shift toward adventurous and culturally immersive travel—with national parks, mountains, and authentic destinations gaining popularity.