Amex Travel Reveals Top Ten Trending Destinations for 2026 Tourism Boom: All You Need to Know

Published on December 11, 2025

Amex Travel identifies top ten trending destinations shaping 2026 tourism, including Las Vegas, Marrakech, Killarney, Marbella, and St Julian’s. These selections, drawn from card member bookings and advisor insights, signal rising tourism demand that will drive increased visits and economic growth across regions. Las Vegas leads as a top hotel booking spot, enhancing tourism appeal through expanded accommodations and vibrant entertainment.​

Asia’s Emerging Tourism Stars

Indian Himalayas and Okinawa Islands emerge as key Asian picks, attracting adventurers seeking untouched landscapes in 2026 tourism itineraries. These offbeat locales promise boosted tourism by offering serene escapes, drawing eco-travelers and boosting local economies through sustained visitor spending. India‘s Himalayan regions gain prominence, positively impacting tourism infrastructure development and cultural preservation efforts.

Okinawa Islands in Japan appeal with pristine beaches and unique culture, set to elevate tourism volumes amid global interest. Such trends encourage tourism diversification, reducing overcrowding in major cities while promoting sustainable practices vital for long-term tourism health. Regional tourism  authorities anticipate higher arrivals, fostering job creation and heritage site protections.

Africa’s Marrakech Spotlight

Marrakech, Morocco, stands as Africa’s sole entrant, poised to surge in 2026 tourism popularity. Its souks, riads, and desert proximity draw culture enthusiasts, significantly impacting tourism by revitalizing hospitality sectors and artisan markets. Enhanced visibility positions Marrakech tourism for record bookings, supporting conservation of historic medinas.

Europe’s Tourism Hotspots

Killarney, Ireland, captivates with lush national parks, influencing 2026 tourism through nature-focused trips that boost rural economies. Marbella, Spain, offers luxury coastal vibes, driving upscale tourism growth and yachting investments. St Julian’s, Malta, shines with Mediterranean charm, enhancing tourism  diversity and waterfront developments.

These European gems collectively elevate tourism resilience, attracting multi-generational travelers and extending shoulder seasons. Killarney tourism benefits from trail expansions, while Marbella and St Julian’s see hotel upgrades, amplifying revenue streams.

Americas’ Tourism Draws

Las Vegas, Nevada, tops lists with neon energy and shows, dominating 2026 tourism hotel bookings after leading in 2024. Expanded Amex portfolios with over thirty-one hundred properties worldwide supercharge Las Vegas tourism, increasing occupancy and event-driven visits. Panama City, Panama, blends urban excitement with canal wonders, propelling tourism infrastructure.

San Juan Mountains, Colorado, allure with rugged hikes, set to impact tourism through adventure packages. Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica, tempts with beaches and wildlife, fostering eco-tourism surges. These spots diversify tourism portfolios, balancing urban and natural appeals for broader demographics.

Driving Factors in Tourism Trends

Travelers prioritize novel hotels and destinations, with high excitement for first-time visits shaping 2026 tourism patterns. Demand for local touches, unique stays, and hidden gems influences bookings, positively affecting tourism authenticity across listed spots. Culinary scenes rank highly, alongside entertainment, steering tourism choices toward immersive experiences.

Food and social vibes guide seventy-two percent of decisions, elevating tourism in gastronomy-rich areas like Marrakech and Las Vegas. Events and sports follow, boosting tourism calendars and ancillary spending.

Tourism Booking Insights

Amex data from 2025 bookings underscores tourism shifts toward experiential travel, with Las Vegas exemplifying hotel dominance. Global advisor networks highlight these trends, preparing tourism operators for influxes. Expanded accommodations in one hundred fourteen countries facilitate seamless 2026 tourism, enhancing accessibility.

Impacts on Global Tourism

These top ten trending destinations forecast tourism recovery acceleration, with novel picks like Indian Himalayas drawing niche markets. Las Vegas tourism expansions set benchmarks, while European and American sites ensure balanced growth. Marrakech and Okinawa pioneer sustainable tourism, mitigating overtourism risks.

Stakeholders leverage insights for targeted promotions, amplifying tourism marketing efficacy. Culinary and event focuses sustain high per-capita spends, fortifying economies.

Future Tourism Outlook

2026 tourism thrives on these hotspots, from Killarney‘s trails to Papagayo‘s shores, promising vibrant recoveries. Amex trends guide investments, ensuring resilient tourism ecosystems. St Julian’s and  Panama City emerge as connectors, bridging continents in travel narratives.

Diverse preferences for uniqueness propel tourism innovation, from boutique hotels to food tours. Marbella tourism exemplifies luxury evolution, attracting high-end segments.

San Juan Mountains bolster adventure tourism, while Indian Himalayas preserve cultural integrity. Collectively, these destinations redefine 2026 tourism, blending excitement with responsibility for enduring appeal.