The 2027 itinerary featured in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel’

León: a return to the Middle Ages (Spain)

The charm of history accompanies a journey through ancient León, one of Spain’s most evocative medieval cities, rich in Gothic cathedrals, picturesque alleyways and a vibrant traditional culinary culture. By day, you’ll discover a city with roots firmly planted in northern Castile, boasting magnificent monuments and a deeply rooted Catholic heritage. At night, the historic centre is filled with the sounds of festivities that fill the narrow streets and squares of the picturesque Barrio Húmedo.

Leon, Spain (Credit: AlexeMarcel, Shutterstock)

Dessau: a symbol of modern design (Germany)

A city that symbolises the Bauhaus movement and modern design, Dessau is an ideal destination for cultural tourism, combining avant-garde architecture with historic parks and refreshing green spaces. Here, you can visit iconic buildings and immerse yourself in a vibrant creative atmosphere. Don’t miss a stroll along the banks of the Elbe, admiring the Baroque skyline of the Old Town, with Dessau on one bank and Rosslau on the other. Among the cobbled streets of the historic centre, you can visit palaces, squares and the church.

Skanör-Falsterbo: a Nordic paradise (Sweden)

A little corner of Nordic paradise known for its iconic colourful wooden cottages, beaches of the finest white sand and unspoilt, peaceful coastal scenery. It’s the perfect destination for watching migratory birds and unwinding away from the hustle and bustle – perhaps by buying a pass to try the local sauna, letting the warm steam envelop you before taking a dip in the cold sea.

Šibenik, the jewel of the Adriatic (Croatia)

Šibenik is a splendid Adriatic gem, boasting a medieval historic centre built of limestone, imposing fortifications overlooking the sea and the magnificent Cathedral of St James. It is a destination that combines Venetian history with unique coastal views. You can admire Skradinski Buk, the longest and most impressive waterfall in Krka National Park, or opt for a boat trip to the uninhabited islands of the nearby Kornati National Park.

Route Napoléon: a journey through history between the Alps and the Côte d’Azur (France)

A fascinating historical route winding its way through the majestic French Alps and the Côte d’Azur, perfect for a memorable road trip. The route follows in the footsteps of the famous commander, offering spectacular Alpine scenery and picturesque villages. It is well worth stopping off at Grasse, visiting the home of Alexandra David-Néel in Digne-les-Bains – now a museum – and climbing the narrow ramparts of the Citadelle de Sisteron to survey the route Napoleon took on horseback through the Vallée de la Durance.

Route-de-Napoleon (Credit: Violette Franchi for Lonely Planet)

St Cuthbert’s Way in Lindisfarne, a spiritual journey (United Kingdom)

This is a deeply captivating spiritual and nature-based journey that links Scotland to the enchanting and mystical island of Holy Island, accessible depending on the tides. An immersive experience amongst ancient monasteries, green hills and breathtaking coastal views. Places to visit include Melrose Abbey, a striking ruin featuring gargoyles, dragons and saints carved into its medieval walls, and the imposing Lindisfarne Castle (16th century), which stands on a rocky outcrop at the eastern end of the island.

The Aegean Sea and the underwater world (Greece)

Extraordinary diving and snorkelling experiences amidst crystal-clear waters, secret sea caves, historic shipwrecks and a protected marine ecosystem of inestimable value. It is a unique way to discover the hidden beauty of the Aegean Sea. An unforgettable experience is watching the sun set over the Temple of Poseidon, the ancient Greeks’ god of the sea, at Cape Sounion – the perfect way to round off a day’s diving.

Killary Fjord, the heart of Connemara (Ireland)

The only true Irish fjord, which cuts deep into the heart of Connemara, surrounded by steep mountains, breathtaking views and wild, unspoilt nature. Killary Fjord is the perfect place for memorable hikes and picturesque boat trips. You simply cannot leave without trying the famous Killary mussels, and in spring it is well worth taking part in the Connemara Mountain Walking Festival, which offers exciting mountain walks led by local experts.

In Gombe National Park, following in the footsteps of the chimpanzees (Tanzania)

For wildlife enthusiasts, Africa offers close-up encounters that can change your outlook on life. In Gombe National Park, Tanzania, you can enjoy the thrilling experience of a walking safari to observe chimpanzees, following in the footsteps of Jane Goodall’s pioneering research. You can walk to the shores of Lake Tanganyika, and the Livingstone Memorial Museum in Ujiji – one of Africa’s oldest villages with a market – is well worth a visit.

The Sultanate: a country full of inspiration (Oman)

The Sultanate of Oman has taken first place overall in the ‘Places’ category for the Africa and Middle East region. The destination stands out for its balance of age-old traditions, genuine hospitality and natural landscapes ranging from desert dunes to the Hajar Mountains and the unspoilt coastlines of the Indian Ocean. For those seeking contact with the wildest aspects of nature, the peaks of Jabal Akhdar and Jebel Shams offer scenic treks and breathtaking views, before descending into the hypnotic silence of the golden dunes of Sharqiya Sands.

Rabat: a blend of tradition and modernity (Morocco)

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Rabat is a city that combines the millennia-old history of the kasbah and the medina with a refined, tranquil cultural atmosphere, far removed from the hustle and bustle of tourism. It strikes a perfect balance between Moroccan tradition and modernity. You can admire the view of the Atlantic or explore the Phoenician and Roman ruins at Chellah and the mausoleum of Mohammed V to delve deeper into the long and rich local history.

Tsavo National Park: between savannahs and volcanic landscapes (Kenya)

Endless savannahs and volcanic landscapes that are home to Africa’s great wildlife, offering majestic scenery for unforgettable safaris amongst red elephants and ancient acacia trees. This is Tsavo National Park, where you can visit the recently established rhino reserve in Tsavo West. Don’t miss the sunset over the savannah whilst sipping a cocktail, as elephants and giraffes roam at the foot of the hill; it’s also well worth taking a look at the wooden sculptures by Kamba artists at the entrance to Tsavo West.

Tsavo, Kenya (Credit: Tobias Kursawa, Shutterstock)

Abu Dhabi, a modern metropolis (United Arab Emirates)

A modern metropolis that combines futuristic skyscrapers with cultural masterpieces, ideal for exploring on foot to appreciate the contrasts between tradition and innovation. Among the must-see attractions, alongside the famous Louvre Abu Dhabi, are Qasr Al Hosn – Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building, now a museum – and a visit to Qasr Al Watan: the presidential palace, a veritable feast of opulence and artistic mastery, from the Great Hall to the library and the ‘presidential gifts’ room.

Museums Abu Dhabi (Credit: Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi)

São Tomé and Príncipe: a unique biodiversity

A little-known, unspoilt African island paradise, characterised by lush tropical forests, extraordinary biodiversity and remote beaches lapped by warm waters. An oasis of peace, this African island nation, where you can sample fresh fish and Portuguese-influenced dishes, go on a forest hike amongst surreal rock formations, go whale-watching or take a scenic helicopter flight over Baía das Agulhas on the island of Príncipe.

The Timeless Realm of the Redwoods (United States)

California is home to a breathtaking botanical treasure: the majestic sequoias, the tallest trees on the planet, set amidst forests of ferns and mosses that seem to have come from another era. You can visit Fern Canyon or other sites with diverse flora and fauna and take the time to stop off here and there, as well as explore a beach on the edge of the forest, perhaps trying to spot whales, which can be seen all year round.

Maryland: lighthouses and fishing villages (United States)

Maryland is a region steeped in maritime and colonial history, with picturesque bays, historic lighthouses and charming fishing villages along its stunning, rugged Atlantic coastline. Famous for its seafaring traditions and cuisine based on fresh fish, it offers a variety of ways to explore, such as spending at least one night in one of Maryland’s grand historic hotels or heading out onto the Chesapeake Bay, where you can take a schooner trip, hire a kayak or try the ‘hook and cook’ fishing experience (where you cook your catch).

Prince Edward Island, the idyllic island (Canada)

A charming, idyllic island famous for its red sandstone cliffs, picturesque historic lighthouses and relaxing seaside views. Prince Edward Island can be explored at a leisurely pace by bike, cycling past rural farms and green hills, taking a dip at sunset at the Mysa Nordic Spa and then dining in the restaurant reserved exclusively for guests. On Saturday mornings, you can explore the Charlottetown Farmers’ Market, open all year round, in search of artisan products and delicious food.

New Mexico: a melting pot of cultures (United States)

A land of spectacular deserts, deep-rooted Native American cultural influences, historic adobe pueblos and clear skies ideal for stargazing, New Mexico is a melting pot of unique cultures and landscapes in the American Southwest. This is home to New Mexico’s many indigenous communities, and visitors can also discover the state’s natural wonders, from Carlsbad Caverns National Park to the gigantic hoodoos (rock formations) of the Bisti/De-Na-Zin Wilderness Area.

New Mexico (Credit: Fotogro, Shutterstock)

Bariloche and the Lake District (Argentina)

A stunning Andean landscape with crystal-clear, emerald-coloured alpine lakes and snow-capped mountains, perfect for lovers of hiking and breathtaking views. The Bariloche mountain region and the Lake District, in the heart of Argentine Patagonia, offer breathtaking views of Lake Nahuel Huapi, which can be reached by taking the chairlift up Cerro Campanario. You can also drive along the incredible 110 km-long Ruta de Siete Lagos, between Villa La Angostura and San Martín de los Andes.

Galapagos Cruise (Ecuador)

An exceptional nature-based journey to discover an isolated and protected island ecosystem, offering the chance to observe up close endemic species found nowhere else in the world. A cruise to the Galápagos is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Activities include a visit to the El Manzanillo ranch in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island to see dozens of giant tortoises in their natural habitat; snorkelling off the coast of Fernandina Island and climbing the more than 370 steps leading to the summit of Bartolomé Island to admire the Pinnacle Rock and Santiago Island.

Galapagos (Credit: Fagner Andrade, Shutterstock)

Okinawa and its laid-back atmosphere (Japan)

Okinawa is Japan’s southernmost prefecture, a three-hour flight from Tokyo. It boasts lush subtropical scenery, a unique culture and a deeply relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those seeking crystal-clear seas and ancient traditions. You can enjoy snorkelling, sampling local delicacies and visiting some of the remains of the Ryūkyū Kingdom, such as Shuri-jō, a 14th-century fortified castle, or the ruins of Nakagusuku-jō.

Gujarat and the Indus Valley (India)

Gujarat, India’s fifth-largest state, combines parched salt flats with a coastline bathed by the Arabian Sea.

Wild lions and age-old craft traditions, carefully passed down through the generations, still thrive on its lands.

Among the places not to be missed are the archaeological sites of Lothal and Dholavira, ancient remains in the Indus Valley.

In the Kutch district, you can admire the marvellous handicrafts at the Shrujan Museum near Bhuj, and the trip ideally concludes in Ahmedabad, amongst temples and a lively urban atmosphere, with the Manek Chowk night market delighting visitors with its fusion street food.

Tweed: between the coast and rural areas (Australia)

Tweed is a stunning coastal and rural region of Australia situated in northern New South Wales, recently named by Lonely Planet as one of the world’s top travel destinations for 2027. Just south of the Gold Coast and close to Byron Bay, this area offers a combination of unspoilt beaches, riverside villages and a lush hinterland nestled within the volcanic caldera of Wollumbin, ideal for those seeking a slower pace of travel. Here, you can discover the local Aboriginal culture, perhaps on a Tweed Escapes river cruise focusing on wild edible plants.

Central Australia (Credit: Patsperspektive, Shutterstock)