With the cold weather we’ve been experiencing in Berlin lately, it’s no wonder that most of us are more than ready for a vacation. While there are some really exciting destinations close to the capital, such as castles, palaces , and charming little towns, we usually look for a more distant destination for a longer vacation, where we can get to know new cultures, natural landscapes, gastronomy, people, and mentalities. And that’s exactly why we need first-class inspiration! National Geographic has already shared the best travel destinations for 2026 —and we’ve picked out the highlights that are likely to interest you the most.
Dolomites & Milan (Italy): Olympic spirit in the Alps
How could Italy be missing from this list? We deliberately put this destination at the top of the list — especially since it’s also ideal for spontaneous trips this month or next. The Dolomites will be in the spotlight in 2026, as they will host the Winter Olympics and Paralympics together with Milan, mainly in and around Cortina d’Ampezzo. The region is part of Dolomiti Superski, one of the largest ski associations in the world with twelve resorts and a huge, diverse terrain. But the Dolomites are not only impressive in winter: many ski lifts also run in summer, when hiking, blooming alpine meadows, and spectacular sunsets take center stage. Equally remarkable are the first-class accommodations and gastronomy — from creative field-to-table cuisine to stylish boutique and luxury hotels. In addition, the region offers exciting insights into the local Ladin culture, for example at the Museum Ladin Ciastel de Torin. All in all, it’s an ideal combination of Olympic glamour, outdoor adventure, culinary delights, and cultural experiences.
Beijing, China
A little further away, but definitely worth the trip, is China’s culturally rich capital. Numerous sights bring the country’s long history to life — including the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, and Tiananmen Square. A special highlight is the Beijing Central Axis, a nearly five-mile-long historic axis of imperial palaces, temples, and gardens that was recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage List . Several Ming imperial tombs around Beijing that were previously inaccessible are also being reopened to visitors.
You can also relax when it comes to visas: Germany is one of the countries whose citizens can currently stay in China for up to 30 days without a visa — this regulation will remain in effect until at least December 31, 2026. So don’t hesitate too long and book your trip while the regulations are still so straightforward!
Colombia (Bogotá)
While National Geographic’s article focuses on Medellín, we want to make sure you don’t overlook Bogotá . If you’re interested in world-class museums (especially the Museo del Oro — one of the best in Latin America), colonial history, politics, and society, you’ll find even more to enjoy here than in Medellín. Colombia’s capital has a vibrant cultural scene with galleries, theaters, literature, and lively debates.
In Bogotá, you’ll also find more upscale restaurants and modern cuisine, a stronger international community, and a wider selection of cafés, bars, concept stores, and creative hotspots. Just outside the city gates are some of the country’s best nature spots — such as Monserrate, Quebrada La Vieja, and other hiking destinations.
The best time to visit Colombia is from March to May and from September to November. Please note: Temperatures in Bogotá are generally slightly cooler than in Medellín.
Basque Country, Spain
Spain is also a must on the list of the best travel destinations for 2026 — not Mallorca or Gran Canaria, but the Basque Country. The region combines world-famous gastronomy (from pintxos to Michelin-starred restaurants) with a rich cultural and artistic scene. In addition to Bilbao and Vitoria-Gasteiz, San Sebastián is particularly recommended : the city is considered one of the most important culinary destinations in Europe and has one of the highest densities of Michelin stars worldwide.
The Basque Country also boasts a dramatic Atlantic coastline, charming fishing villages, and green, hilly landscapes that often begin right outside the cities. A particularly spectacular reason to travel there in 2026: on August 12, a total solar eclipse will be visible over parts of the Basque Country — including Bilbao and Vitoria-Gasteiz. This rare natural phenomenon will put the region even more in the international spotlight.
Black Sea, Turkey
And finally, we would like to share a tip that is all about the sea. Along the northern Black Sea coast in Turkey, you will find some of the country’s most beautiful and unspoiled coastal landscapes : green, lush, and varied, with rolling hills, dense forests, deep valleys, and quiet beaches. This coastal region stands out from mass tourism — quite unlike the well-known beaches on the Mediterranean or Aegean coasts.
The Black Sea region offers numerous national parks, well-developed hiking trails, and opportunities for rafting, ziplining, and trekking, all nestled in the spectacular landscapes of the Pontic Mountains. It is considered an exciting “Mediterranean alternative” that is still largely under the radar — ideal for travelers seeking authentic culture and unspoiled nature far away from crowded hotspots.