From Canada’s historic cities and coastal landscapes to Europe’s lesser-known cultural destinations, 2027 is shaping up to be an exciting year for travellers looking to explore somewhere different. While famous tourist hotspots continue to attract millions of visitors, destinations offering authentic local experiences, natural beauty, and distinctive cultural heritage are becoming increasingly appealing.
The destinations highlighted in this article cover a remarkable variety of travel experiences. Quebec offers French-Canadian culture and historic architecture, while Northern California is home to some of the world’s tallest trees. Maryland and New Mexico showcase different sides of the United States, while Prince Edward Island provides a quieter coastal escape.
Europe also features prominently, with Italy’s Veneto region, Germany’s Dessau, Sweden’s Skanor-Falsterbo, Croatia’s Sibenik, and Spain’s Leon offering everything from Renaissance architecture to medieval streets and Baltic beaches.
Top 10 Best Places to Visit in 2027
The following ten destinations are presented in the order provided for this Lonely Planet-inspired 2027 travel list. Each offers something different, whether visitors are interested in food, history, outdoor adventures, architecture, or simply discovering places beyond the usual tourist routes.
1. Quebec, Canada
Quebec is one of Canada’s most fascinating travel destinations, offering a distinctive combination of French-speaking culture, historic architecture, outstanding food, and beautiful natural landscapes. Lonely Planet has included the province in its Best in Travel 2027 selection, recognising its unique identity within North America.
Quebec City is among the province’s biggest attractions. Its UNESCO-listed historic district features cobbled streets, centuries-old buildings, fortified walls, and the famous Chateau Frontenac overlooking the St Lawrence River. Walking through Old Quebec feels remarkably different from exploring most other North American cities.
Montreal provides another experience entirely, with lively neighbourhoods, art galleries, festivals, and a food scene known for bagels, smoked meat, and poutine.
Outside the major cities, travellers can explore the Eastern Townships, visit vineyards, or enjoy whale watching along the St Lawrence River. The Laurentian Mountains are particularly attractive for outdoor adventures, including hiking, skiing, and autumn foliage trips.
Quebec is also a destination that changes dramatically with the seasons. Summer brings festivals and outdoor dining, autumn offers colourful landscapes, and winter transforms Quebec City into a snowy wonderland.
For travellers seeking European-style charm without leaving North America, Quebec deserves serious consideration in 2027.
2. Northern California Coast & Its Redwoods, USA
Northern California’s coastline and ancient redwood forests offer one of the most impressive natural experiences in the United States. Lonely Planet has selected California’s redwood parks for its 2027 travel recommendations, highlighting the region’s extraordinary forests and dramatic Pacific coastline.
Redwood National and State Parks are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. These enormous coastal redwoods can reach heights exceeding 100 metres, creating forests that feel almost prehistoric.
Visitors can explore walking trails through towering trees, fern-covered valleys, and peaceful woodland landscapes. Popular experiences include hiking through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, visiting Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, and exploring the scenic Avenue of the Giants farther south.
The surrounding coastline is equally impressive, featuring rugged cliffs, misty beaches, secluded coves, and spectacular ocean views.
Wildlife enthusiasts may encounter Roosevelt elk in the region’s protected landscapes, while offshore waters provide opportunities for seasonal whale watching.
Road trips are particularly popular, allowing travellers to combine forest walks with coastal viewpoints and small-town stops.
The region’s frequently foggy weather adds to its atmosphere, although visitors should prepare for changing conditions throughout the year.
Northern California is an excellent choice for travellers seeking quiet natural surroundings, outdoor adventures, and an alternative to America’s busiest tourist destinations.
3. Maryland, USA
Maryland earns a place in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 selection thanks to its fascinating history, coastal scenery, distinctive cuisine, and diverse cultural attractions.
Located on the eastern coast of the United States, Maryland offers experiences ranging from lively cities to peaceful waterfront communities and mountain landscapes.
Baltimore is one of the state’s main attractions, known for its historic neighbourhoods, museums, waterfront attractions, and thriving food scene. Visitors can explore the Inner Harbor, visit the National Aquarium, and experience the city’s arts and cultural districts.
Maryland also holds an important place in American history. The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park commemorates the life and achievements of Harriet Tubman, who helped enslaved people escape to freedom.
The state’s Chesapeake Bay region is particularly attractive for seafood enthusiasts. Maryland blue crabs, crab cakes, and fresh oysters are central to the local culinary identity.
Outdoor activities include kayaking, boating, hiking, and exploring the Chesapeake coastline.
Visitors seeking a traditional seaside holiday can travel to Ocean City, while western Maryland offers forested mountains and scenic trails.
Maryland’s combination of history, food, and outdoor experiences makes it an appealing destination for travellers interested in exploring beyond America’s best-known tourist cities.
4. Prince Edward Island, Canada
Prince Edward Island is one of Canada’s smallest provinces, but its coastal beauty, peaceful countryside, and exceptional seafood make it a memorable travel destination.
Located in the Gulf of St Lawrence, the island is recognised for its red-sandstone cliffs, sandy beaches, fishing villages, and picturesque farmland.
Lonely Planet’s 2027 selection particularly highlights the island’s seafood experiences, where visitors can learn about local fishing traditions and enjoy freshly harvested oysters, mussels, and lobster.
Charlottetown, the provincial capital, provides a welcoming introduction to the island through its historic streets, restaurants, galleries, and waterfront attractions.
Literature enthusiasts will recognise Prince Edward Island as the setting of Anne of Green Gables. Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish remains one of its best-known cultural attractions.
The island is also excellent for cycling, with the Confederation Trail offering routes through rural landscapes and small communities.
Prince Edward Island National Park features beaches, dunes, and coastal walking areas, making it particularly attractive during the warmer months.
Summer is generally the most popular season for visitors, although autumn brings quieter roads and attractive countryside scenery.
For travellers who prefer relaxed holidays, fresh seafood, and beautiful coastal landscapes, Prince Edward Island offers a refreshing alternative to Canada’s larger tourist destinations.
5. New Mexico, USA
New Mexico stands out for its dramatic desert scenery, Indigenous heritage, historic communities, and distinctive Southwestern culture.
Lonely Planet has included the American state among its recommended destinations for 2027, recognising the combination of landscapes, art, history, and outdoor adventures found throughout the region.
Santa Fe is one of its most popular destinations, famous for adobe architecture, galleries, museums, and a culinary tradition shaped by Indigenous, Spanish, and Mexican influences.
Albuquerque offers another side of the state, with its historic Old Town, nearby Sandia Mountains, and internationally recognised hot-air ballooning culture.
Nature lovers can explore White Sands National Park, where vast fields of white gypsum dunes create one of America’s most unusual landscapes.
Carlsbad Caverns National Park is another major attraction, featuring an extensive underground cave system.
New Mexico also has a rich Indigenous cultural heritage, with Pueblo communities maintaining traditions that have developed over many generations. Visitors should respect local rules when visiting cultural sites and communities.
The state’s cuisine is particularly distinctive, with red and green chile playing an important role in local dishes.
From mountain towns to desert landscapes, New Mexico provides an opportunity to experience a different side of the United States.
6. The Veneto, Italy
The Veneto region in northeastern Italy is often associated with Venice, but its attractions extend far beyond the famous canals.
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 selection highlights the region’s varied landscapes, cultural heritage, vineyards, and opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Venice remains one of the world’s most recognisable destinations, attracting visitors with its historic architecture, waterways, churches, and artistic heritage.
However, the Veneto also includes Verona, known for its Roman amphitheatre and association with Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Padua offers historic university buildings, impressive churches, and the famous Scrovegni Chapel, while Vicenza is celebrated for its Palladian architecture.
Wine enthusiasts can explore the Prosecco Hills, where vineyards cover rolling landscapes and small villages offer opportunities to experience regional food and wine traditions.
The northern part of the Veneto reaches into the Dolomites, providing access to spectacular mountain scenery, hiking routes, and winter sports.
Lake Garda’s eastern shores offer another attractive option, combining lakeside villages with outdoor activities.
Travellers visiting in 2027 can enjoy a varied itinerary that combines cultural sightseeing with countryside experiences.
The Veneto is particularly rewarding for those willing to explore beyond Venice and discover the region’s smaller towns, landscapes, and local traditions.
7. Dessau, Germany
Dessau is one of Germany’s most interesting destinations for architecture enthusiasts, particularly those fascinated by modern design and the influential Bauhaus movement.
Located in the state of Saxony-Anhalt, the city played a central role in the development of Bauhaus architecture and design during the twentieth century.
The Bauhaus Building, designed by Walter Gropius, is among Dessau’s most famous landmarks. Its clean lines, glass facades, and functional design helped establish architectural principles that influenced buildings around the world.
Visitors can also explore the Masters’ Houses, which were associated with prominent Bauhaus figures, and learn more about the movement at the Bauhaus Museum Dessau.
However, the city’s attractions extend beyond modern architecture.
The nearby Dessau-Worlitz Garden Realm is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring landscaped gardens, historic buildings, waterways, and scenic parkland.
The surrounding region also offers cycling routes and opportunities to explore the landscapes near the Elbe River.
Dessau is considerably quieter than Germany’s major tourist destinations, making it attractive to visitors interested in cultural experiences without large crowds.
For travellers who enjoy architecture, design history, and peaceful surroundings, Dessau provides an unusual and rewarding European city break in 2027.
8. Skanor-Falsterbo, Sweden
Skanor-Falsterbo is a charming coastal destination in southern Sweden, recognised for its sandy beaches, peaceful atmosphere, and outstanding birdwatching opportunities.
Located on the Falsterbo Peninsula in Skane, the area combines two historic seaside communities surrounded by attractive coastal landscapes.
During summer, visitors can enjoy long sandy beaches, swimming, cycling, and relaxed walks through the surrounding countryside.
The colourful beach huts and traditional coastal architecture contribute to the area’s distinctive character.
Falsterbo is particularly famous among birdwatchers because the peninsula lies along an important migration route. During the autumn migration season, large numbers of birds pass through the region, attracting wildlife enthusiasts from across Europe.
The Falsterbo Bird Observatory is an important centre for bird research and observation.
The destination also offers historic streets, small cafes, and opportunities to explore the surrounding coastal environment.
Its location near Malmo makes it relatively accessible for travellers visiting southern Sweden or crossing from Copenhagen in Denmark.
Unlike Scandinavia’s larger cities, Skanor-Falsterbo offers a quieter experience focused on nature, beaches, and local life.
For visitors seeking a peaceful coastal holiday with opportunities for wildlife observation, this Swedish destination is well worth exploring.
9. Sibenik, Croatia
Sibenik is one of Croatia’s most attractive historic coastal cities, offering medieval architecture, Adriatic scenery, and convenient access to remarkable national parks.
Located along the Dalmatian coast, the city is less internationally famous than Dubrovnik or Split, but it provides a similarly appealing combination of history and seaside experiences.
Its most important landmark is the Cathedral of St James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its architectural design and detailed stonework.
Sibenik’s historic centre features narrow streets, stone buildings, small squares, and traditional restaurants.
Visitors can also explore the city’s fortresses, including St Michael’s Fortress, which offers impressive views across the waterfront and surrounding islands.
Nearby Krka National Park is another major attraction, known for its waterfalls, walking trails, and natural landscapes.
The surrounding coastline provides opportunities for boat trips, swimming, and exploring nearby islands.
Sibenik also has a lively cultural scene, with music events and festivals contributing to its appeal during the summer months.
For travellers planning a Croatian holiday in 2027, Sibenik offers a rewarding alternative to the country’s busiest coastal destinations.
Its combination of historic attractions, beautiful scenery, and nearby natural wonders makes it suitable for both short city breaks and longer coastal holidays.
10. Leon, Spain
Leon completes the list of ten recommended destinations for 2027, offering visitors a fascinating combination of medieval architecture, religious heritage, and traditional Spanish culture.
Located in northwestern Spain, Leon is an important stop along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage routes.
The city’s most famous landmark is Leon Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic building recognised for its extensive stained-glass windows.
Another important attraction is the Basilica of San Isidoro, which contains remarkable Romanesque art and historic royal burial chambers.
The Casa Botines, designed by Antoni Gaudi, adds a distinctive architectural element to the city.
Leon is also known for its lively tapas culture, particularly in the Barrio Humedo neighbourhood, where visitors can explore traditional bars and restaurants.
Local dishes include cured meats, regional cheeses, and hearty specialities associated with the wider Castile and Leon region.
The city’s walkable historic centre makes it convenient to explore major attractions without needing extensive transport.
Beyond Leon, travellers can discover nearby countryside, mountain landscapes, and historic villages.
Compared with Madrid and Barcelona, Leon offers a quieter experience while maintaining a strong cultural identity.
For travellers interested in Spanish history, architecture, food, and pilgrimage traditions, Leon is an excellent destination to consider in 2027.
Why These Destinations Stand Out for 2027
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 collection reflects growing interest in destinations that offer experiences beyond conventional sightseeing.
The selected places demonstrate how varied modern travel has become. Some visitors seek outdoor adventures among ancient forests, while others prefer historic architecture, regional cuisine, or relaxed coastal holidays.
North America features prominently in this selection, with destinations such as Quebec, Maryland, New Mexico, and Prince Edward Island offering experiences that differ considerably from major metropolitan tourist centres.
European destinations provide another perspective, combining cultural heritage with opportunities to explore smaller communities and lesser-known regions.
Environmental responsibility is also becoming increasingly important, particularly in destinations where natural landscapes and wildlife are major attractions.
Travellers planning visits in 2027 should consider seasonal conditions, local transport options, and the potential effects of peak tourism periods.
Exploring destinations outside the busiest travel seasons can often provide a more relaxed experience while supporting local businesses throughout the year.
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Bottom Line
Quebec, Northern California’s redwood forests, Maryland, Prince Edward Island, and New Mexico are among the North American destinations featured in this selection from Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 collection.
Europe is represented by the Veneto, Dessau, Skanor-Falsterbo, Sibenik, and Leon, each offering distinctive cultural, historical, or natural attractions.
The destinations demonstrate that memorable holidays do not always require visiting the world’s most famous tourist hotspots.
Whether travellers are interested in coastal scenery, architecture, wildlife, regional cuisine, or cultural heritage, these ten places provide plenty of reasons to start planning a trip in 2027.
FAQs
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 collection includes 50 destinations worldwide. Ten featured here are Quebec, Northern California’s redwood parks, Maryland, Prince Edward Island, New Mexico, the Veneto, Dessau, Skanor-Falsterbo, Sibenik, and Leon.
Quebec and Prince Edward Island in Canada, alongside Northern California’s redwood parks, Maryland, and New Mexico in the United States, are among the North American destinations included in Lonely Planet’s 2027 selection.
The Veneto in Italy, Dessau in Germany, Skanor-Falsterbo in Sweden, Sibenik in Croatia, and Leon in Spain are featured in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027 collection. They offer a mixture of historic architecture, cultural attractions, beaches, and natural landscapes.
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