Where to Travel in 2027: The Destinations on Our Radar

The Nesoi Edit | Inspiration for your next journey

A new year brings new places to discover and while some destinations never lose their appeal, others are beginning to have their moment. From unforgettable wildlife encounters and faraway adventures to quieter corners of the Mediterranean, these are some of the destinations we think deserve a place on your 2027 travel list.

Japan

Japan continues to capture the imagination, and it is easy to understand why. Few destinations combine ancient traditions, futuristic cities, beautiful landscapes and exceptional food quite so effortlessly.

A first journey might take you from the energy of Tokyo to Kyoto’s temples and traditional neighbourhoods, with time in Hakone to see Mount Fuji. Those wishing to venture further could explore the Japanese Alps, Hiroshima or the beaches of Okinawa.

Cherry-blossom season remains especially sought-after, but Japan is wonderful throughout the year. Autumn brings colourful foliage and pleasantly mild weather, while winter offers excellent skiing and the chance to experience a quieter side of the country.

Best for: Culture, food, touring and once-in-a-lifetime family adventures

When to travel: March to May and October to November

Nesoi tip: Japan’s most popular hotels and experiences can fill quickly, particularly during cherry-blossom season, so planning well ahead is essential.

Kenya

A Kenyan safari is one of travel’s truly unforgettable experiences. While the Maasai Mara rightly remains one of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destinations, we are also watching northern Kenya, particularly Samburu for 2027.

Samburu offers a more rugged landscape, distinctive wildlife and an intimate safari experience. It can be combined with the Maasai Mara or a relaxing stay on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast. For something even more special, finish with a few nights in Mauritius, Zanzibar or the Seychelles.

Safari holidays can be designed for couples, honeymooners and families, with everything from welcoming lodges to luxurious tented camps. Samburu was also selected for Intrepid Travel’s 2027 “Not Hot List,” highlighting destinations offering memorable experiences beyond the most heavily visited places.

Best for: Wildlife, adventure, honeymoons and families with older children

When to travel: June to October and January to February

Nesoi tip: A safari and beach combination gives you two completely different holidays in one journey.

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka offers an extraordinary amount within one relatively compact island. Ancient cities, tea-covered hills, national parks and palm-fringed beaches can all be combined into one beautifully varied itinerary.

A journey might begin in the Cultural Triangle before continuing into the hill country aboard one of the world’s most scenic railway routes. From there, enjoy a safari in search of elephants and leopards, explore the streets of Galle and finish beside the Indian Ocean.

For travellers looking beyond the classic route, the Pekoe Trail through Sri Lanka’s central highlands is emerging as a wonderful way to experience the island more slowly. It has also been recognised as one of the notable emerging travel experiences for 2027.

Best for: Couples, families, wildlife and multi-centre adventures

When to travel: This depends on the region, as Sri Lanka has two monsoon seasons

Nesoi tip: A carefully planned private tour allows you to experience several sides of Sri Lanka without the journey feeling rushed.

The Greek Islands - Beyond the Familiar Favourites

Greece will always be one of our favourite European destinations, but in 2027 we expect more travellers to look beyond its most famous islands.

Places such as Alonissos offer sparkling water, pretty villages and a gentler pace. Part of the Northern Sporades, the island is home to a protected marine park and feels wonderfully removed from Greece’s busier resorts.

That does not mean abandoning the classics. Crete, Corfu and Rhodes continue to offer outstanding hotels and family-friendly holidays. The key is finding the island and the property that suits the way you like to travel.

Best for: Summer holidays, couples and relaxed family escapes

When to travel: May to October

Nesoi tip: Consider travelling in June or September for warm weather and a more peaceful atmosphere.

Albania

Albania is quickly becoming one of the Mediterranean’s most talked-about destinations. Its dramatic mountains, historic towns and clear-blue coastline make it an exciting alternative for travellers keen to experience somewhere new.

The Albanian Riviera is home to beautiful beaches and inviting coastal towns, while inland destinations such as Berat and Gjirokastër reveal the country’s culture and history.

Albania’s tourism offering is still developing, so it may not provide the same polished resort experience found in some more established Mediterranean destinations. However, for curious travellers who value scenery, culture and a sense of discovery, that is part of its appeal. Recent travel forecasting has also identified Albania as one of the destinations to watch in 2027.

Best for: Couples, explorers and Mediterranean road trips

When to travel: May to June and September

Nesoi tip: Albania works especially well as part of a carefully planned touring itinerary rather than a traditional resort-only holiday.

South Africa

South Africa is not a new discovery, but it remains one of the most rewarding destinations for travellers who want variety.

Cape Town combines spectacular scenery with wonderful restaurants, beaches and culture. Continue into the Cape Winelands, drive part of the Garden Route or add a safari in the Eastern Cape or Greater Kruger.

It is also a brilliant choice for a milestone celebration or a family adventure. With the right itinerary, you can experience a city break, countryside retreat, coastal escape and safari within a single holiday.

Best for: Food and wine, wildlife, touring and special celebrations

When to travel: South Africa is a year-round destination, depending on your chosen regions

Nesoi tip: Avoid trying to fit everything into one visit. Fewer stops and longer stays usually create a much more enjoyable journey.

Egypt

Egypt is entering an exciting new chapter. Beyond the Red Sea resorts familiar to British holidaymakers, the country offers extraordinary opportunities for cultural journeys combining Cairo, the pyramids and a Nile cruise.

For 2027, Egypt will also be one of the world’s most remarkable places to experience the total solar eclipse on 2 August. Luxor lies close to the path of totality and is expected to attract considerable international interest, so specialist trips will need to be arranged far in advance.

Even without the eclipse, a well-planned journey through Egypt offers a captivating combination of history, adventure and winter sunshine.

Best for: History, cruising, winter sun and special-interest travel

When to travel: October to April for generally more comfortable sightseeing temperatures

Nesoi tip: If the 2027 eclipse is on your wish list, begin planning as early as possible.

The Way We Will Travel in 2027

The biggest shift we are seeing is not simply where people want to go, but how they want to experience it.

Travellers are choosing longer stays in fewer places, looking beyond the busiest resorts and planning holidays around meaningful experiences. Multi-generational trips are also becoming increasingly popular, with families searching for villas and larger suites where everyone can spend time together.

The most desirable rooms, villas and safari camps often have limited availability. Planning early gives you a much better choice, especially for school holidays, milestone celebrations and complex multi-centre itineraries.

Where Will 2027 Take You?

Perhaps you already have a destination in mind, or perhaps you simply know how you want your next holiday to feel. Either way, we can help turn the first idea into a journey created around you.

From finding the right hotel to arranging flights, transfers, experiences and every detail in between, your holiday will be planned with care from beginning to end.

Speak to the Nesoi Travel team to start planning your 2027 holiday.