Two Canadian spots named among world’s best places to visit in 2026

A pair of Canadian destinations recently shared the spotlight on the world stage, earning nods on U.S. News & World Report’s 30 World’s Best Places to Visit for 2026 list. 

Coming in at No. 28 was Quebec City, which earned its spot due in large part to its old-world feel. In fact, it’s one of Canada’s oldest cities. U.S. News & World Report highlighted the destination’s “undeniable charm,” boasting winding cobblestone streets, stone facades and a unique food scene. Visitors to Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will set foot in a “world straight out of a European painting,” according to the report.

Taking the No. 29 spot on the list was Banff. Alberta’s popular mountain town has something to offer visitors year-round — from hiking and boating to skiing and more — according to U.S. News & World Report. Located in the Canadian Rockies, Banff also provides for easy access to Banff National Park, world renowned for its breathtaking scenic vistas. 

Taking the top spot on the list for 2026 was Rome, which has seen several restoration projects take place throughout the city recently. Italy’s capital boasts some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and Vatican City. 

Coming in at No. 2 was Tokyo, a city that blends the sights, sounds and tastes of a modern metropolis — bustling streets, high-end shopping and unique dining destinations, including more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world — with historic attractions like centuries-old temples and shrines. 

Prague, a city known for its Gothic esthetic, took the No. 3 spot. Boasting historic attractions such as St. Vitus Cathedral and the Old Town Bridge tower, a visit to the Czech Republic’s capital city is a must for anyone with an eye for architecture.

With iconic travel destinations spanning the globe, narrowing the list to 30 spots was challenging, noted U.S. News & World Report, an online media company known for its consumer advice and data-driven rankings. To do so, the company relied on the opinions of experts, reader votes and current trends.

Here’s a look at U.S. News & World Report’s full list for 2026.

World’s best places to visit for 2026

1. Rome, Italy

2. Tokyo, Japan

3. Prague, Czech Republic

4. Swiss Alps, Switzerland

5. Mauritius, East Africa

6. Iguazu Falls, Argentina and Brazil

7. Amsterdam, Netherlands

8. Machu Picchu, Peru

9. Palawan, Philippines

10. Santorini, Greece

11. Bora Bora, French Polynesia

12. Tanzania, East Africa

13. Sydney, Australia

14. Paris, France

15. Chiang Mai, Thailand

16. Maui, Hawaii

17. Barcelona, Spain

18. London, England

19. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

20. Cappadocia, Turkey

21. Petra, Jordan

22. Istanbul, Turkey

23. Glacier National Park, United States

24. Saint Lucia

25. Yellowstone National Park, United States

26. South Island, New Zealand

28. Quebec City, Canada

29. Banff, Canada

30. Turks & Caicos

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