December 16, 2025
10 Bucket List Destinations for 2026
Are you planning a vacation for next year but aren’t sure where you’d like to go? In our roundup of 10 bucket list destinations for 2026, we’ve selected a range of exciting countries around the world, which would all make a great pick. Some of them, especially the smaller countries, may sometimes be overlooked. Whatever your dream vacation is, we think you can find it in one of these places – whether you love exploring city streets, perfect beaches or rugged landscapes. We’ve factored in affordability and suggested the cheapest times to fly there, as well as looking up hotel and car rental costs.
Methodology
We selected 10 countries around the world with a wide range of different landscapes and cultures, any of which we believe would make a great ‘bucket list’ destination. We selected destinations based on their cities as well as their natural beauty, as well as bearing affordability in mind. We recommended several towns, cities and regions in each country for tourists to consider, depending on what kind of vacation they would like.
In each destination, we identified both an affordable hotel and a more upscale option for those looking to go all out on their bucket list vacation using a popular hotel booking website. We also identified the most affordable time to visit using flight comparison websites. Lastly, using DiscoverCars.com’s own data as a global car rental comparison site, we researched several options to rent a car and selected the most affordable price for each location, not including temporary sales.
All prices were correct at the time of writing.
In each destination, we identified both an affordable hotel and a more upscale option for those looking to go all out on their bucket list vacation using a popular hotel booking website. We also identified the most affordable time to visit using flight comparison websites. Lastly, using DiscoverCars.com’s own data as a global car rental comparison site, we researched several options to rent a car and selected the most affordable price for each location, not including temporary sales.
All prices were correct at the time of writing.
Free to use when crediting DiscoverCars.com using a do-follow hyperlink.
Corsica
The island of Corsica is known as the “Island of Beauty" (L'Île de Beauté), because of its stunning natural scenery which combines forests, mountains and white sandy beaches along its 600 km coastline. Between Italy and the south coast of France, it enjoys a Mediterranean climate. This country might be a bucket list destination for hikers, drivers and cyclists in particular: its quiet mountain roads offer incredible views. But it’s also a great place to relax and unwind, maybe with a glass of wine and a traditional wild boar stew in a local restaurant.
For outdoor pursuits, the Gulf of Ajaccio is a popular destination for paddle-boarding, kite-surfing and ocean kayaking. It’s also home to the port city of Ajaccio, the country’s capital and largest city. Historic Corte is another lovely city to visit, and it’s located in the Regional Nature Park of Corsica, making it a perfect starting point for hikes, mountaineering and lake swimming excursions.
On the northeast coast, there’s also Bastia, a port city that’s known for its baroque architecture, and on the south coast, Bonifacio, a picturesque city built on dramatic white limestone cliffs.
Renting a car is a great way to explore Corsica. You can rent a car in Ajaccio for €25 a day – just be mindful that the roads can sometimes be narrow, so be careful, especially in the mountains.
When to visit:
The best months for beach vacations are between May and September, but June–September are perfect for hiking. The most affordable time to fly to Corsica is May or June, with the highest prices in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are between 2-9 May.
Ajaccio
For outdoor pursuits, the Gulf of Ajaccio is a popular destination for paddle-boarding, kite-surfing and ocean kayaking. It’s also home to the port city of Ajaccio, the country’s capital and largest city. Historic Corte is another lovely city to visit, and it’s located in the Regional Nature Park of Corsica, making it a perfect starting point for hikes, mountaineering and lake swimming excursions.
On the northeast coast, there’s also Bastia, a port city that’s known for its baroque architecture, and on the south coast, Bonifacio, a picturesque city built on dramatic white limestone cliffs.
Renting a car is a great way to explore Corsica. You can rent a car in Ajaccio for €25 a day – just be mindful that the roads can sometimes be narrow, so be careful, especially in the mountains.
When to visit:
The best months for beach vacations are between May and September, but June–September are perfect for hiking. The most affordable time to fly to Corsica is May or June, with the highest prices in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are between 2-9 May.
Ajaccio
- Hôtel Albion from €97 per night (for 2 people)
- Ibis Styles Ajaccio Napoleon from €128 per night (for 2 people)
- L'Albadu from €98 per night (for 2 people)
- Les Jardins De La Glacière from €182 per night (for 2 people)
Estonia
Over half of Estonia’s territory is covered by natural scenery, with dense forests and peat bogs, and more than 2,000 islands, many of which are tiny and uninhabited. It’s a haven for wildlife and a perfect escape into untouched nature. However, this small Baltic country is also home to lively, cultural cities that are full of history. Sauna fans should try a traditional Estonian smoke sauna. There’s no chimney, so while the sauna heats up, it fills with smoke, which is released before the bathers come in, leaving a distinct smoky smell.
The capital city Tallinn has a UNESCO-listed Old Town that looks straight out of a fairytale, and plenty of museums and galleries to explore, including just a 15-minute drive from the center, the Estonian Open Air Museum. Here you will find a recreation of how people lived in small fishing villages hundreds of years ago. Tartu, the second largest city, is a lively university city. Its district Karlova is known for its pretty Art Nouveau wooden houses.
To explore Estonia’s natural landscapes, visitors might like to go to Lahemaa National Park on the north coast, where you can find forests, wetlands and beaches. This is a truly wild place where lynx, bears and wolves live. Or go to the peaceful island of Hiiumaa, which is very popular with cyclists, because of its quiet roads and varied, beautiful terrain.
Exploring Estonia by car is a great way to get out to more remote places to experience the country’s natural beauty. Drivers should be mindful that in winter, the roads can get icy. You can rent a car in Tallinn for €7 a day.
When to visit:
May–August in Estonia offers the warmest weather, making this the best time of year for outdoor activities. Late spring in May will be quieter, as will early fall in September. However, winter (November–March) looks magical in the snow, although driving in the rural part of the country can be difficult at this time. The cheapest months to fly to Estonia are January-March, with August being the most expensive time.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are between 13-20 May.
Tallinn
The capital city Tallinn has a UNESCO-listed Old Town that looks straight out of a fairytale, and plenty of museums and galleries to explore, including just a 15-minute drive from the center, the Estonian Open Air Museum. Here you will find a recreation of how people lived in small fishing villages hundreds of years ago. Tartu, the second largest city, is a lively university city. Its district Karlova is known for its pretty Art Nouveau wooden houses.
To explore Estonia’s natural landscapes, visitors might like to go to Lahemaa National Park on the north coast, where you can find forests, wetlands and beaches. This is a truly wild place where lynx, bears and wolves live. Or go to the peaceful island of Hiiumaa, which is very popular with cyclists, because of its quiet roads and varied, beautiful terrain.
Exploring Estonia by car is a great way to get out to more remote places to experience the country’s natural beauty. Drivers should be mindful that in winter, the roads can get icy. You can rent a car in Tallinn for €7 a day.
When to visit:
May–August in Estonia offers the warmest weather, making this the best time of year for outdoor activities. Late spring in May will be quieter, as will early fall in September. However, winter (November–March) looks magical in the snow, although driving in the rural part of the country can be difficult at this time. The cheapest months to fly to Estonia are January-March, with August being the most expensive time.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are between 13-20 May.
Tallinn
- Dream Stay - Mere Residence Apartments with 24H reception from €58 per night (for 2 people)
- City Yard Inn Hotel from €62 per night (for 2 people)
- Hansa Hotel from €79 per night (for 2 people)
- Filosoofi 1 Studio Apartments from €50 per night (for 2 people)
Georgia
Georgia, at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is known for its breathtaking landscapes and mountain ranges, as well as its delicious food and drink. This country is known as the birthplace of wine, with a winemaking history dating back over 8,000 years. As well as the Caucasus mountains, you can explore its lush green valleys and the Black Sea coastline.
The country’s capital is Tbilisi, a vibrant, cultural city with a blend of eclectic architectural styles and pretty cobblestone streets, as well as lively nightlife. Kutaisi, Georgia’s third-largest city, is full of amazing architecture and historical landmarks like the 11th-century Bagrati Cathedral.
For wine lovers, Kakheti is one of the country’s most significant wine regions and is home to both pretty towns and Lagodekhi National Park, which has five tourist trails for hikers. Svaneti is another beautiful region of the country, high up in the mountains and ideal for travelers who love adventure. Upper Svaneti is a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site – the landscape is dotted with unusual stone tower-houses, hundreds of years old.
Road conditions in Georgia vary, from well-paved roads to smaller gravel roads. Exploring this country by car is a wonderful way to see places that are further off the beaten track. You can rent a car in the capital city of Tbilisi for €11 a day.
When to visit:
May–June and September–October will offer milder weather and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the cities and light hiking. Serious hikers who want to go up into the mountains will find the best time is July–August, as the weather in these regions will be drier then. Winter can be very cold. The most affordable flights will be in December–March, with the highest prices in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are May 9–19.
Tbilisi
The country’s capital is Tbilisi, a vibrant, cultural city with a blend of eclectic architectural styles and pretty cobblestone streets, as well as lively nightlife. Kutaisi, Georgia’s third-largest city, is full of amazing architecture and historical landmarks like the 11th-century Bagrati Cathedral.
For wine lovers, Kakheti is one of the country’s most significant wine regions and is home to both pretty towns and Lagodekhi National Park, which has five tourist trails for hikers. Svaneti is another beautiful region of the country, high up in the mountains and ideal for travelers who love adventure. Upper Svaneti is a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site – the landscape is dotted with unusual stone tower-houses, hundreds of years old.
Road conditions in Georgia vary, from well-paved roads to smaller gravel roads. Exploring this country by car is a wonderful way to see places that are further off the beaten track. You can rent a car in the capital city of Tbilisi for €11 a day.
When to visit:
May–June and September–October will offer milder weather and fewer crowds, perfect for exploring the cities and light hiking. Serious hikers who want to go up into the mountains will find the best time is July–August, as the weather in these regions will be drier then. Winter can be very cold. The most affordable flights will be in December–March, with the highest prices in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are May 9–19.
Tbilisi
- Royal Plaza Hotel from €51 per night (for 2 people)
- Griffin Hotel from €110 per night (for 2 people)
- Central Inn from €54 per night (for 2 people)
- Best Western Kutaisi City Center from €94 per night (for 2 people)
Jordan
Jordan is a beautiful Middle Eastern country with a welcoming culture and delicious Levantine cuisine. It’s also one of the more affordable countries in this region to visit. So if you have ever been curious about visiting this part of the world but thought it was out of reach, think again! Bear in mind that all tourists need to get a visa in order to enter the country, which can be obtained ahead of time online or on arrival at the airport.
The ancient city of Petra, with buildings carved directly into the pink sandstone, is one of the top places to visit in Jordan: it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and in 2007 it was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Another must-see and World Heritage Site, Wadi Rum Protected Area, is a stunning desert often used to represent other planets in movies like Dune and The Martian. Jordan also borders the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, a hotspot for wellness tourism.
For those who prefer the bustle of towns and cities, Jordan’s capital, Amman, offers a unique blend of modern culture and incredible ancient ruins. Alternatively, the coastal city of Aqaba is very close to both Petra and Wadi Rum, and has many popular beach resorts.
Driving is a great way to get around Jordan, helping you reach locations like the Dead Sea without relying on public transport, and in Amman, you can rent a car for as little as €6 per day.
When to visit:
The peak tourist season in Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), as the summer months tend to be very hot and dry. The cheapest months to visit Jordan are December–March, while the highest prices for flights are in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are January 15–22.
Amman
The ancient city of Petra, with buildings carved directly into the pink sandstone, is one of the top places to visit in Jordan: it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and in 2007 it was voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Another must-see and World Heritage Site, Wadi Rum Protected Area, is a stunning desert often used to represent other planets in movies like Dune and The Martian. Jordan also borders the mineral-rich waters of the Dead Sea, a hotspot for wellness tourism.
For those who prefer the bustle of towns and cities, Jordan’s capital, Amman, offers a unique blend of modern culture and incredible ancient ruins. Alternatively, the coastal city of Aqaba is very close to both Petra and Wadi Rum, and has many popular beach resorts.
Driving is a great way to get around Jordan, helping you reach locations like the Dead Sea without relying on public transport, and in Amman, you can rent a car for as little as €6 per day.
When to visit:
The peak tourist season in Jordan is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November), as the summer months tend to be very hot and dry. The cheapest months to visit Jordan are December–March, while the highest prices for flights are in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are January 15–22.
Amman
- Nozoll Boutique Residences from €73 per night (for 2 people)
- InterContinental Amman Jordan by IHG from €138 per night (for 2 people)
- Desert Magic Camp & Resort from €26 per night (for 2 people)
- Mövenpick Resort Petra from €133 per night (for 2 people)
- Twins Boutique Hotel from €65 per night (for 2 people)
- Al Manara, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Aqaba from €188 per night (for 2 people)
Malta
Our next bucket list destination is Malta — a country that, despite its small size, offers a huge range of experiences for travelers. It has UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Ġgantija temples, dating back more than 3,000 years, which are so huge that traditional folklore says they must have been built by giants! With a balmy Mediterranean climate, this country has mild winters and hot summers, and over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year – along with its crystal-clear waters, this makes it a very popular destination for beach holidays, diving and sailing.
Valletta, the capital, is one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, only about 1km long and 600m wide. Built on a peninsula, it’s incredibly picturesque and full of churches and museums. The ‘Silent City’, Mdina, got its nickname because it used to be the country’s capital and when Malta’s capital city was changed, it was left very quiet. This pretty Medieval town has magnificent palaces and narrow historic streets to wander down. In this tranquil place, no cars are allowed except for those belonging to residents, so you’ll need to park outside the old city walls.
Just off the coast of Malta, why not take a ferry over to Comino, a tiny island where you can find the Blue Lagoon? This is an extremely popular place to swim, snorkel and picnic on the shore.
Driving in Malta offers beautiful scenery and makes it easier to explore all the wonderful, different regions of this small island, but driving in the cities and towns can sometimes be tricky, especially when they have very old, narrow streets. In Valletta, you can rent a car for €24 a day.
When to visit:
Tourism to Malta peaks in the summer months, with people flocking to the country in July and August for beach vacations and nightlife. Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are still warm, making these seasons ideal for city breaks – winter is fairly mild too. The most affordable time to fly to Malta is February–March, while July is the most expensive.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are April 18–23.
Valletta
Valletta, the capital, is one of the smallest capital cities in Europe, only about 1km long and 600m wide. Built on a peninsula, it’s incredibly picturesque and full of churches and museums. The ‘Silent City’, Mdina, got its nickname because it used to be the country’s capital and when Malta’s capital city was changed, it was left very quiet. This pretty Medieval town has magnificent palaces and narrow historic streets to wander down. In this tranquil place, no cars are allowed except for those belonging to residents, so you’ll need to park outside the old city walls.
Just off the coast of Malta, why not take a ferry over to Comino, a tiny island where you can find the Blue Lagoon? This is an extremely popular place to swim, snorkel and picnic on the shore.
Driving in Malta offers beautiful scenery and makes it easier to explore all the wonderful, different regions of this small island, but driving in the cities and towns can sometimes be tricky, especially when they have very old, narrow streets. In Valletta, you can rent a car for €24 a day.
When to visit:
Tourism to Malta peaks in the summer months, with people flocking to the country in July and August for beach vacations and nightlife. Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are still warm, making these seasons ideal for city breaks – winter is fairly mild too. The most affordable time to fly to Malta is February–March, while July is the most expensive.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are April 18–23.
Valletta
- Valletta Collection - GB Suites from €135 per night (for 2 people)
- Paulos Valletta from €150 per night (for 2 people)
- The Mdina Heritage Boutique Hotel - By Luxury Villas International from €140 per night (for 2 people)
- The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux from €266 per night (for 2 people)
Montenegro
Although Montenegro in the western Balkans is a small country, it’s absolutely packed with beautiful places to see, from pristine beaches to the breathtaking Durmitor National Park, which is a perfect destination for nature-lovers. Hikers and those who enjoy outdoor pursuits will find lots to love here, but this country is also home to historic cities and towns like Kotor and Budva.
Kotor (with a UNESCO-recognized Old Town and city walls) is the biggest city in the Bay of Kotor, but you can also find the pretty Medieval towns of Risan, Tivat, Perast, and Prčanj here. Another gorgeous stretch of coast, the vibrant Budva Riviera is the most popular destination for nightlife in Montenegro. The capital, Podgorica, came seventh in our list of top spring destinations this year.
For outdoor adventure, Durmitor National Park near the town of Zabljak is the place to go for activities like hiking, climbing, mountaineering, rafting and canoeing. Its pine forests and rivers are very beautiful and the Ice Cave, known locally as Ledena Pecina, has incredible ice formations which are visible even in midsummer.
Driving in Montenegro can be exciting, with winding mountain roads with beautiful views. You can rent a car in Podgorica for as little as €2 a day
When to visit:
The most popular time to visit Montenegro is in the summer, between May–September, as this is when you can find perfect beach weather. However, spring and fall will still be mild and warm. Winter is, of course, ideal for skiing and other sports. The most affordable times to fly to Montenegro are November–April, with the highest prices in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are April 22–29.
Kotor
Kotor (with a UNESCO-recognized Old Town and city walls) is the biggest city in the Bay of Kotor, but you can also find the pretty Medieval towns of Risan, Tivat, Perast, and Prčanj here. Another gorgeous stretch of coast, the vibrant Budva Riviera is the most popular destination for nightlife in Montenegro. The capital, Podgorica, came seventh in our list of top spring destinations this year.
For outdoor adventure, Durmitor National Park near the town of Zabljak is the place to go for activities like hiking, climbing, mountaineering, rafting and canoeing. Its pine forests and rivers are very beautiful and the Ice Cave, known locally as Ledena Pecina, has incredible ice formations which are visible even in midsummer.
Driving in Montenegro can be exciting, with winding mountain roads with beautiful views. You can rent a car in Podgorica for as little as €2 a day
When to visit:
The most popular time to visit Montenegro is in the summer, between May–September, as this is when you can find perfect beach weather. However, spring and fall will still be mild and warm. Winter is, of course, ideal for skiing and other sports. The most affordable times to fly to Montenegro are November–April, with the highest prices in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are April 22–29.
Kotor
- Apartments Marković from €50 per night (for 2 people)
- HUMA Kotor Bay Hotel and Villas from €160 per night (for 2 people)
- Zoya Apartment from €39 per night (for 2 people)
- Boscovich Boutique Hotel from €130 per night (for 2 people)
- Gorštak from €43 per night (for 2 people)
- NORTH STORY - Luxury Chalet - Apartments & rooms from €96 per night (for 2 people)
Morocco
Morocco is another bucket list destination for 2026, famous for both its incredible desert and mountain landscapes as well as its lively, historic cities. Tourists visiting this gorgeous North African country should definitely try local delicacies like fresh mint tea and tajine, a stew named after the earthenware pot it’s cooked in.
Many parts of the capital Rabat are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including landmarks such as the Kasbah of the Udayas. But the most popular city for tourists might be Marrakesh, where the Old Town, known as the medina (also UNESCO-listed), is home to the famous souks or covered markets. In Morocco’s northwest, Chefchaouen in the mountains is nicknamed the ‘Blue City’ because of the unique color of its buildings.
Outside the cities, the Sahara Desert is a once-in-a-lifetime destination — it’s about a nine-hour drive from Marrakesh, so you’ll realistically want to set aside at least a few days on your Moroccan vacation if you’d like to go there.
Driving in Morocco is a great way to see the country – the roads are well-maintained outside of the most rural areas, and renting a car in Rabat might cost only €6 a day. However, exploring the city center, especially the old medinas, might be easier on foot.
When to visit:
The best times to visit might be spring (March–May) and fall (September–October), when you can find milder temperatures. Summer is very hot, but if you’re visiting coastal Rabat, this might be easier to cope with. The cheapest time to fly to Morocco is November–March, while the highest prices are in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are March 3–12.
Rabat
Many parts of the capital Rabat are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including landmarks such as the Kasbah of the Udayas. But the most popular city for tourists might be Marrakesh, where the Old Town, known as the medina (also UNESCO-listed), is home to the famous souks or covered markets. In Morocco’s northwest, Chefchaouen in the mountains is nicknamed the ‘Blue City’ because of the unique color of its buildings.
Outside the cities, the Sahara Desert is a once-in-a-lifetime destination — it’s about a nine-hour drive from Marrakesh, so you’ll realistically want to set aside at least a few days on your Moroccan vacation if you’d like to go there.
Driving in Morocco is a great way to see the country – the roads are well-maintained outside of the most rural areas, and renting a car in Rabat might cost only €6 a day. However, exploring the city center, especially the old medinas, might be easier on foot.
When to visit:
The best times to visit might be spring (March–May) and fall (September–October), when you can find milder temperatures. Summer is very hot, but if you’re visiting coastal Rabat, this might be easier to cope with. The cheapest time to fly to Morocco is November–March, while the highest prices are in August.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are March 3–12.
Rabat
- Riad el wazania from €38 per night (for 2 people)
- NJ Hotel Rabat from €119 per night (for 2 people)
- Hôtel Faouzi from €31 per night (for 2 people)
- Grand Mogador Menara & Spa from €117 per night (for 2 people)
Poland
Poland is a beautiful country which combines famous historic cities with wild landscapes like the Tatra Mountains and Masurian Lake District, hotspots for hikers, cyclists, canoeists and other outdoor enthusiasts. This country is famous for its cuisine, including rich and hearty bigos (often translated as hunter’s stew) and pierogi, delicious dumplings which can be either savoury or sweet.
The capital, Warsaw, is known for its beautiful UNESCO-listed Old Town, which was meticulously restored after WWII, including the Royal Castle. This lively and energetic city has lots of art and culture to enjoy. Kraków’s Old Town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture all together – this gorgeous city is home to the grand Rynek Glowny, the largest Medieval square in Europe.
For nature-lovers, the Masurian Lakes offer plenty of outdoor adventure in a landscape of rolling hills and more than 2,000 lakes. There’s also the tranquil Białowieża Forest, Europe’s biggest primeval woodland and home to the largest free-living population of European bison.
Poland is quite easy to navigate by car, but some rural areas will have less well-lit or well-maintained roads – but don’t let this put you off exploring these beautiful areas. In Warsaw, renting a car for a day might cost as little as €4.
When to visit:
May–October is when Poland’s weather is at its most pleasant, with July–August the peak season for exploring the country’s beautiful lakes and forests. December–February is perfect for a winter city break in the snow, or skiing in the mountains. The cheapest flights can be found from December–March, while August is the most expensive time to fly to Poland.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are May 16–24.
Warsaw
The capital, Warsaw, is known for its beautiful UNESCO-listed Old Town, which was meticulously restored after WWII, including the Royal Castle. This lively and energetic city has lots of art and culture to enjoy. Kraków’s Old Town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture all together – this gorgeous city is home to the grand Rynek Glowny, the largest Medieval square in Europe.
For nature-lovers, the Masurian Lakes offer plenty of outdoor adventure in a landscape of rolling hills and more than 2,000 lakes. There’s also the tranquil Białowieża Forest, Europe’s biggest primeval woodland and home to the largest free-living population of European bison.
Poland is quite easy to navigate by car, but some rural areas will have less well-lit or well-maintained roads – but don’t let this put you off exploring these beautiful areas. In Warsaw, renting a car for a day might cost as little as €4.
When to visit:
May–October is when Poland’s weather is at its most pleasant, with July–August the peak season for exploring the country’s beautiful lakes and forests. December–February is perfect for a winter city break in the snow, or skiing in the mountains. The cheapest flights can be found from December–March, while August is the most expensive time to fly to Poland.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are May 16–24.
Warsaw
- Hotel Arche Geologiczna from €89 per night (for 2 people)
- SLEEPWELL NOWY ŚWIAT - entrance from Ordynacka 14St, through the courtyard from €270 per night (for 2 people)
- Avena Boutique Hotel by Artery Hotels from €122 per night (for 2 people)
- Hotel M29 from €297 per night (for 2 people)
Scotland
Scotland combines a rich cultural heritage with some of the UK’s most spectacular landscapes, from shimmering lochs to dramatic mountains like Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. The country’s cities have wonderful historic architecture and vibrant arts and culture scenes. Lovers of whisky will enjoy visiting distilleries to try world-class Scotch — with over 150 active distilleries, there are plenty to choose from!
Edinburgh is famous for its Medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, both of which are classed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Edinburgh Castle is another must-see destination in the capital. The biggest city in Scotland, Glasgow, is known for its museums, galleries and live music – perfect for culture-lovers.
As well as lively cities to immerse yourself in, rural Scotland attracts plenty of visitors too, and for good reason. If you visit the Isle of Skye, you’ll find majestic rock formations like the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr, as well as the Fairy Pools, stunning waterfalls and mountain springs, a popular location for wild swimming. Or visit Loch Ness and take a boat tour looking for the famous monster!
Renting a car in Scotland makes it much simpler to reach remote places for amazing hikes, where public transport may be scarce. You can rent a car in Edinburgh for €8 a day.
When to visit:
The best time to visit Scotland for mild weather and longer daylight hours might be spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October), especially if you want to explore the cities. Summer (July–August) will be especially busy in cities like Edinburgh as the famous Edinburgh Fringe takes over the city during this time, but this could be a great time to explore the country’s wilder places. Winter is cold but beautiful. The most affordable time to fly to Scotland is February–March.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are May 13–18.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh is famous for its Medieval Old Town and Georgian New Town, both of which are classed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Edinburgh Castle is another must-see destination in the capital. The biggest city in Scotland, Glasgow, is known for its museums, galleries and live music – perfect for culture-lovers.
As well as lively cities to immerse yourself in, rural Scotland attracts plenty of visitors too, and for good reason. If you visit the Isle of Skye, you’ll find majestic rock formations like the Quiraing and the Old Man of Storr, as well as the Fairy Pools, stunning waterfalls and mountain springs, a popular location for wild swimming. Or visit Loch Ness and take a boat tour looking for the famous monster!
Renting a car in Scotland makes it much simpler to reach remote places for amazing hikes, where public transport may be scarce. You can rent a car in Edinburgh for €8 a day.
When to visit:
The best time to visit Scotland for mild weather and longer daylight hours might be spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October), especially if you want to explore the cities. Summer (July–August) will be especially busy in cities like Edinburgh as the famous Edinburgh Fringe takes over the city during this time, but this could be a great time to explore the country’s wilder places. Winter is cold but beautiful. The most affordable time to fly to Scotland is February–March.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are May 13–18.
Edinburgh
- ibis budget Hotel Edinburgh Park from €135 per night (for 2 people)
- The Hoxton, Edinburgh from €204 per night (for 2 people)
- Glasgow from €52 per night (for 2 people)
- Courtyard by Marriott Glasgow SEC from €146 per night (for 2 people) ibis budget
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan in the heart of Central Asia is famous for its rich history, especially its role at the center of the Silk Road trade route. Uzbekistan’s cities are known for their magnificent Islamic architecture and ancient monuments, and the country is also full of dramatic landscapes to explore, from mountain gorges and juniper forests to expanses of desert.
From January 1 2026, all American tourists will be able to visit Uzbekistan for up to a month without a visa, making it much easier to travel to this country from the US.
The capital city, Tashkent, has many historical landmarks to visit, including the Kukeldash Madrasah, built in the 16th century. The Chorsu Bazaar is a traditional marketplace and a great place to try local food. Samarkand is a city with thousands of years of history, with city walls dating back to the 4th century BCE, and beautiful mosques and monuments like the Registan, a grand square. Another ancient city that has stood for over 2000 years is Bukhara, known for its Medieval architecture – the city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Outside of the cities, the Nurata Nature Reserve offers hikers amazing views, and 80 km from Tashkent, you can find the Chimgan mountains, which in winter are a very popular skiing destination.
In Uzbekistan’s major cities, the roads are easy to drive and well-maintained – if you’re venturing further afield to explore the country’s natural beauty, bear in mind that the roads in rural areas can be a little rougher. Renting a car in Tashkent might cost €24 a day.
When to visit:
Spring (March–June) and fall (September–October) will have the best temperature for sightseeing, as summer can be extremely hot, with winter very cold. In spring the landscape comes alive with wildflowers. The most affordable times to visit Uzbekistan are January–March, with August flight tickets coming with the highest price tag.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are March 5–12.
Tashkent
From January 1 2026, all American tourists will be able to visit Uzbekistan for up to a month without a visa, making it much easier to travel to this country from the US.
The capital city, Tashkent, has many historical landmarks to visit, including the Kukeldash Madrasah, built in the 16th century. The Chorsu Bazaar is a traditional marketplace and a great place to try local food. Samarkand is a city with thousands of years of history, with city walls dating back to the 4th century BCE, and beautiful mosques and monuments like the Registan, a grand square. Another ancient city that has stood for over 2000 years is Bukhara, known for its Medieval architecture – the city’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Outside of the cities, the Nurata Nature Reserve offers hikers amazing views, and 80 km from Tashkent, you can find the Chimgan mountains, which in winter are a very popular skiing destination.
In Uzbekistan’s major cities, the roads are easy to drive and well-maintained – if you’re venturing further afield to explore the country’s natural beauty, bear in mind that the roads in rural areas can be a little rougher. Renting a car in Tashkent might cost €24 a day.
When to visit:
Spring (March–June) and fall (September–October) will have the best temperature for sightseeing, as summer can be extremely hot, with winter very cold. In spring the landscape comes alive with wildflowers. The most affordable times to visit Uzbekistan are January–March, with August flight tickets coming with the highest price tag.
Where to stay:
These hotel dates are March 5–12.
Tashkent
- Art City Apartments & Hotel from €55 per night (for 2 people)
- Garnet Hotel Tashkent from €73 per night (for 2 people)
- Hotel Dali Samarkand from €38 per night (for 2 people)
- Mövenpick Samarkand from €82 per night (for 2 people)
- DUSTON Boutique XIX century rooms from €58 per night (for 2 people)
- Mercure Bukhara Old Town from €150 per night (for 2 people)
Conclusion
We hope our list of bucket list destinations for 2026 has given you some inspiration! We think any of these 10 countries would make an incredible place for your next vacation, and as you can see from our research, there are ways to keep your visit a little more affordable. Whether you want to escape the hustle and bustle and go somewhere peaceful with breathtaking natural scenery, or dive headfirst into an exciting new city, there’s something for everyone on our list.
Wherever you’re headed on your next adventure, please consider booking with us at DiscoverCars.com. As a global car rental comparison site, we can help you find the perfect rental car for your vacation in 145 countries around the world.
Wherever you’re headed on your next adventure, please consider booking with us at DiscoverCars.com. As a global car rental comparison site, we can help you find the perfect rental car for your vacation in 145 countries around the world.
Top Related Locations
Here are some great starting points for making your own road-trip route.
- Nice, France (Nice Côte d’Azur Airport): a classic Mediterranean city and an ideal base for driving coastal roads and exploring hilltop villages along the Riviera.
- Lyon, France (Lyon–Saint Exupéry Airport): a major cultural and food capital with easy access to vineyards, rivers, and Alpine landscapes.
- Casablanca, Morocco (Mohammed V International Airport): a large, modern coastal city that works well as a gateway to Atlantic road trips and inland Morocco.
- Fes, Morocco (Fes–Saïs Airport): an atmospheric historic city with one of the world’s largest medinas and scenic routes toward the Middle Atlas.
- Gdańsk, Poland (Gdańsk Lech Wałęsa Airport): a vibrant Baltic port city with colorful architecture and easy coastal drives.
- Wrocław, Poland (Copernicus Airport Wrocław): a lively university city built around canals and bridges, with access to scenic Lower Silesia countryside.
- Inverness, Scotland (Inverness Airport): the cultural capital of the Highlands and a perfect base for lochs, mountains, and coastal road trips.
- Aberdeen, Scotland (Aberdeen International Airport): a sizeable northern city with dramatic coastal scenery and easy access to castles and rugged landscapes.
- Irbid, Jordan (Queen Alia International Airport): a large northern city near Roman ruins and green highlands, offering a different, less touristy side of Jordan.
- Reykjavik, Iceland (Keflavík International Airport): compact, creative, and the gateway to some of the world’s most surreal road-trip landscapes.
- Bologna, Italy (Bologna Airport): a food-obsessed city with medieval streets and quick access to the Apennines and northern Italy road routes.
- Seville, Spain (Seville Airport): rich in history and color, with quick access to white villages and Andalusian countryside.
- Porto, Portugal (Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport): a compact city with riverside views and unforgettable Atlantic coastal drives.
- Split, Croatia (Split Airport): a lively historic center and a perfect starting point for Adriatic road trips.
- Naples, Italy (Naples International Airport): raw, energetic, and unforgettable, with instant access to southern Italy’s most iconic scenery.
- Vienna, Austria (Vienna International Airport): elegant and well-connected, with easy drives to wine regions, lakes, and Alpine foothills.
- Vancouver, Canada (Vancouver International Airport): a laid-back coastal city surrounded by mountains, forests, and some of North America’s most scenic highways.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina (Ministro Pistarini International Airport): energetic, cultural, and a great starting point for road trips into pampas, wine regions, and dramatic southern landscapes.
- Melbourne, Australia (Melbourne Airport): creative and easygoing, with the Great Ocean Road and rugged southern coastline right on its doorstep.
- Auckland, New Zealand (Auckland Airport): a city of harbors and volcanic landscapes, ideal for island hopping and North Island road trips.
Aleksandrs Buraks
Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com
Aleksandrs has over 10 years of experience in marketing with a focus on creating stellar content that provides topical insights using data. Having taken five road trips across Europe and one in the U.S., he is passionate about traveling by car. His favorite countries to visit are Denmark and Thailand. You can find him on Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.
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