Trending Travel Styles for 2026

Travel in 2026 is defined by experiences that are meaningful, enriching, and effortless. Families are choosing journeys that span generations, history lovers are seeking destinations that deepen their understanding of the past, and more travelers are embracing slower, guided ways to explore. Here are the destinations leading the way and why they reflect the top travel styles of the year ahead.

Guided cultural tours of Tuscany are trending as travelers seek experiences that blend food, wine, and art. From vineyard tastings in Chianti to the masterpieces of Florence and Siena, every day offers a feast for the senses. With the guidance of local experts, travelers can immerse in Tuscan flavors and history while enjoying a pace that allows for relaxation. Tuscany represents the essence of lifestyle travel in 2026 with its balance of culinary discovery and cultural indulgence.

Why Tuscany for Culinary or Cultural Experiences?

Traveling for culinary experiences and cultural exploration in Tuscany allows visitors to savor authentic Italian cuisine, world-renowned wines, and the region’s rich artistic heritage. Whether joining a Tuscany food and wine tour, exploring medieval towns, or enjoying a cooking class with local chefs, each experience creates lasting memories. By combining gastronomy with history and art, Tuscany culinary tours go beyond traditional sightseeing, offering travelers a truly immersive journey into Italy’s culture and way of life.

Why Choose Guided Tuscany Tours

A guided Tuscany tour offers travelers the perfect balance of convenience, expertise, and immersion. Instead of worrying about logistics like transportation between Florence, Siena, and Chianti, travelers can relax while everything is arranged. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into Tuscany’s art, architecture, and traditions that go beyond what you’d discover on your own, enriching every visit to vineyards, piazzas, and museums.

Guided tours also ensure authentic connections to Tuscan culture. From sampling regional specialties at family-run wineries to exploring Renaissance masterpieces with expert commentary, every experience is thoughtfully curated. With time built in for leisure, travelers enjoy the region’s charm at a comfortable pace while still uncovering the highlights that make Tuscany a world-class destination for culinary and cultural travel.

Do More Than Just "Check Off" Machu Picchu in Peru

Guided tours to Machu Picchu remain among the most sought-after legacy journeys. For many travelers, reaching the citadel is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. Expertly led visits to the Sacred Valley and Cusco bring context to the ruins with insight into Incan history and vibrant local traditions. A guided journey makes this once-in-a-lifetime destination seamless and meaningful, offering both cultural depth and personal significance.

Far beyond the iconic citadel, our guided tours thoughtfully bring Peru’s rich heritage to life. Dine on traditional Peruvian dishes, perhaps under the open sky beside Laguna Piuray while savoring Pachamanca in the Sacred Valley. Traveling aboard the panoramic IncaRail train offers breathtaking views through the Andes on a journey toward Aguas Calientes. In Cusco, explore Koricancha, an Inca temple of extraordinary engineering and spiritual importance, and even enjoy a visit to a private planetarium that reveals the role of astronomy in Andean culture. These carefully curated experiences go well beyond checking off a bucket-list site. They connect regional flavors, craftsmanship, astronomy, and architecture into a journey that remains meaningful long after you leave the mountain air behind.

What is a legacy journey?

A legacy journey is a once-in-a-lifetime trip to a destination that carries deep cultural, historical, or personal significance. It is the kind of travel experience that stays with you forever, whether that means standing before the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, walking along the Great Wall of China, or tracing family heritage in Europe.

Experience the Grand Canyon and the American West with Family

Guided family tours across the American West are trending in 2026 as one of the most rewarding ways for grandparents, parents, and children to travel together visiting U.S. National Parks. The Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, and Bryce create unforgettable backdrops that inspire every age. Younger travelers marvel at the sheer scale of the landscapes while older generations connect with cultural experiences at the Crazy Horse Memorial and the Oglala Lakota Living History Village. With expert Tour Directors managing the details, families can focus on sharing discovery and building lasting memories together.

Why Travel with Family?

Family travel creates opportunities to bond across generations while discovering new places together. Shared experiences like watching a sunrise over the Grand Canyon or learning Native American traditions allow grandparents, parents, and children to connect in meaningful ways. Guided family tours make it easy to balance the interests of all ages, offering a mix of adventure, education, and relaxation. Traveling together not only builds lasting memories but also strengthens family traditions that can be passed down for years to come.

Take it Slow Along the Beautiful Blue Danube River

All-inclusive river cruises on the Danube are shaping slow travel in 2026. Travelers can unpack once and sail through Europe’s cultural heart, with guided excursions in Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest. Every stop reveals castles, music halls, and historic old towns brought to life by expert guides. A Danube river cruise is the perfect way to enjoy enriching exploration at a relaxed pace while experiencing Europe in comfort.

Why All-Inclusive Cruising Means Stress-Free Exploration

Choosing an all-inclusive Danube river cruise removes the stress of planning and budgeting while traveling. With accommodations, meals, and guided excursions included, every detail is taken care of so you can simply enjoy the journey. There is no need to worry about arranging transportation between cities or purchasing individual tickets for sightseeing, because the cruise ensures seamless travel from one cultural capital to the next. This all-in-one approach makes it easy to relax, knowing that the essentials are covered while you focus on the pleasures of discovery along Europe’s most storied river. Learn more about the benefits of River Cruising in Europe.

Normandy is for History Lovers

Guided tours of Normandy offer powerful opportunities for reflection and discovery. Walking along the D-Day beaches, visiting the American Cemetery, and viewing the Bayeux Tapestry connect travelers with pivotal moments in history. Beyond its wartime legacy, Normandy also offers cultural depth at Mont-Saint-Michel and in the Loire Valley’s castles. Traveling with a knowledgeable guide ensures that these sites are experienced with both context and meaning, making Normandy one of the most engaging destinations for 2026.

Mont-Saint-Michel: A Cultural Counterpoint

While Normandy is known for its pivotal role in modern history, nearby Mont-Saint-Michel offers travelers a glimpse into the region’s medieval past. Rising dramatically from tidal waters, the abbey and its surrounding village reflect centuries of religious devotion, artistry, and architectural achievement.  A guided visit reveals stories of pilgrims who once made the journey here, along with views that stretch across the bay and surrounding countryside. Experiencing Mont-Saint-Michel alongside Normandy’s D-Day sites creates a powerful balance of reflection and inspiration, making the region one of the most complete cultural destinations in France.

Why is Normandy Still a Top Travel Destination?

Normandy offers travelers a chance to experience France in a way that feels both authentic and diverse. The region is celebrated for its dramatic coastal scenery, half-timbered towns, and vibrant local traditions that showcase the heart of French culture. Fresh seafood, artisanal cheeses, and renowned apple cider highlight its culinary appeal, while picturesque countryside landscapes provide a peaceful backdrop for exploration. With its unique blend of coastal charm, rich flavors, and welcoming atmosphere, Normandy a captivating place to visit.

Ready to Get a Bit Wild? Alaska is an Ideal Destination!

Guided Alaska tours are trending as the top choice for scenic and easy adventures. Glaciers, fjords, and abundant wildlife create thrilling encounters without requiring strenuous activity. Guided excursions and scenic cruises provide comfort while opening access to Alaska’s most breathtaking wilderness. In 2026, Alaska continues to be the ideal destination for travelers who want awe-inspiring adventure with the ease of a guided journey.

Why Go Guided in Alaska?

Traveling with a guided tour in Alaska ensures deeper connections to the state’s rich culture and heritage. Expert guides share stories of Indigenous traditions, Gold Rush history, and the unique way of life in frontier towns that might otherwise be overlooked. Travelers also benefit from seamless logistics, with transportation, accommodations, and curated experiences arranged in advance. This combination of insight and convenience allows visitors to fully appreciate Alaska’s character while enjoying a smooth and worry-free journey.