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Travel lists come and go, but ours starts with one simple question: Where will it actually be cheaper and easier to fly in 2026?
We built this list around the real deals, not wishful thinking. Every destination earned its spot because something shifted in the skies: new routes, expanded long-haul service, low-cost competition, airport upgrades, or visa changes that unlock better prices and smoother connections.
Will your big trip in 2026 be a break from the Mediterranean crowds to catch an art show in a Maltese medieval fortress, or feast on chewy focaccia at a family-run shop in Puglia? A cross-country tour to celebrate the Mother Road’s centennial? A night of lantern-lit snacking in a Taiwanese night market? A long weekend wandering Cartagena’s pastel balconies? A sunrise stroll through Marrakesh’s spice-scented souks?
If these destinations are on your list, good news: It’s getting easier and cheaper to get there. And if they’re not on your list…maybe they should be.
Here’s where to go in 2026 if you love cheap flights.
North America
Route 66
Ideal for: Roadtrip romantics, Americana history buffs, families, and anyone who loves a long, scenic drive and a good celebration
Why it made our list: It’s dotted with some of the best airports in the US for cheap flights, and it’s celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2026. There’s never been a better time to tour Route 66.
Going deeper: Route 66 is perhaps the most famous American road, inspiring a jazz standard and countless road trips. If you know the song, you’ve already got a good idea of the path the “Mother Road” traces across the country from Chicago to Los Angeles. While some parts of the historic road have been co-opted by newer highways, other parts have been maintained as “National Scenic Byways” for maximum road-trip nostalgia.
The segment between Springfield, Missouri, and Tulsa, Oklahoma is a favorite, or you could just concentrate on the roughly 400 miles of Route 66 that cut diagonally across Oklahoma itself—more than any other state. The National Route 66 Museum is in Elk City, Oklahoma, and there are some quirky roadside attractions along the way, including a huge blue whale made of cement in Catoosa, and the world’s largest concrete totem pole in Chelsea.
In 2026, Route 66 will mark its 100th year with celebrations, including a kick-off event in Springfield, caravans, a touring film premiere, and more. Learn more about the centennial celebrations here. —With words from Jessica Spiegel’s guide 21 Great American Road Trips Around the US
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San Diego
Ideal for: Sun-seekers, families, foodies, surfers, and wannabe surfers
Why it made our list: New routes from Boston on Southwest and Dallas–Fort Worth on Alaska Airlines make San Diego easier and cheaper to reach year-round, opening the door to California’s most reliably sunny coastal getaway.
Going deeper: With 17 miles of coastline and 250+ days of sunshine per year, San Diego is California’s perfect-weather getaway—but far from a one-note beach town. Located about as close to Mexico as you can get without crossing the border, it has a rich Mexican-American heritage, with influences evident across its architecture and culinary landscape. While its credibility as a foodie town has long been overshadowed by neighboring LA, local chefs, farms, and fishermen are fueling a now white-hot, more grown-up food scene that’s gaining nods from the Michelin and James Beard organizations.
Standout San Diego neighborhoods include upscale Mission Hills with its Craftsman-style homes and low-fi hipster enclave Golden Hill. Throw in hidden art hubs, peaceful gardens, world-class museums, and a generous slice of laid-back surf culture, and you’ve got yourself a weekend or longer fit for a good time.
Expert tips:
- California burrito? Look no further than Adalberto’s Mexican Food, Roberto’s, Super Sergio’s, or Harry’s Taco Club
- Fish tacos? Mitch’s Seafood is a piping-hot local tip. Others: Seafood La 57, TJ Oyster Bar, and El Pescador Fish Market
- Serious sunset views? Sunset Cliffs (parking can be rough, don’t say we didn’t warn you)
- Can’t miss? Balboa Park. Even just to walk around and peruse its many museums
—With words from Keri Bridgwater’s Guide to San Diego, and tips from Going CEO Brian Kidwell and Going Spokesperson Katy Nastro
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Toronto, Canada
Ideal for: FIFA fans, foodies, and festival hoppers
Why it made our list: New US routes into downtown’s Billy Bishop City Airport in spring 2026 make it easier to land in the heart of the city. Add in Toronto’s role as one of the 2026 FIFA World Cup hosts, and it’s shaping up to be a stellar year for Canada’s largest city.
Going deeper: Toronto has been leveling up for years, but in 2026 it’ll all converge, with easier access, a FIFA spotlight, and a cultural calendar that doesn’t let up. The dining scene has exploded in recent years, thanks to new Michelin stars and Bib Gourmands. Foodies: Pay attention to Ossington Avenue, Little Portugal, and East Chinatown neighborhoods.
Time your visit right, and you can fold in one of Toronto’s festivals. Electric Island (May) is a techno series that draws international DJs over several weekends. Toronto Pride (June) is one of the largest Pride celebrations on the continent. Toronto Fringe (June–July) stages hundreds of indie performances. And the Toronto International Film Festival (September) turns the city into film central. Beyond the big names, the city shines through its hyper-local events, including street festivals in Queen West and Danforth, plus Pedestrian Sundays in Kensington Market.
World Cup energy will further supercharge the city in 2026. Its already lively neighborhoods will thrill whether you snag a ticket to one of the six matches or spectate from one of the fan zones. But even outside match days, there’s no shortage of reasons to visit. —Alex Ausch, Going Software Engineer
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South America and the Caribbean
Santo Domingo and La Romana, Dominican Republic
Ideal for: Culture-minded travelers, foodies, small-town beach lovers, and anyone looking for a non-resort Dominican experience
Why it made our list: Nonstop service from Miami to La Romana plus expanded US flights into Santo Domingo make the DR’s southern coast easier to reach without routing through Punta Cana.
Going deeper: In the same way that Mexico City has surged in popularity as a more interesting and cultural alternative to Cancún, Santo Domingo and La Romana are poised to appeal to US travelers looking beyond Punta Cana. Santo Domingo is a city with real energy, with nightlife that spans from great dance clubs to fun open-air bars.
Similarly, La Romana enjoys world-class beaches with calm waters and far fewer tourists than Punta Cana. Thanks to American Airlines’ nonstop route from Miami to La Romana launched in late 2024, it’s never been easier to reach the side of the Dominican Republic that lies outside the all-inclusive bubble. —Scott Keyes, Going Founder and Chief Flight Expert
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Coastal Colombia
Ideal for: Beach-goers, nature and culture enthusiasts, and sea-foodies
Why it made our list: More competition on Caribbean routes is pushing fares down, and Colombia’s northern coastline delivers the beaches, culture, and food travelers want, minus the crowds of more familiar Caribbean hotspots.
Going deeper: Coastal Colombia is hot, humid, and absolutely worth it. In Cartagena, wander colorful streets, pop into shops filled with handmade goods from local artists, drink world-renowned coffee, and eat all the ceviche. Need a break from the heat? Book a day trip to a spot like Blue Apple Beach, a Mediterranean-inspired beach club off the coast. You’ll take a boat out, spend the day eating fresh seafood, lounging poolside, and getting a massage. It's the perfect reset, and the perfect way to cool off.
There's also Santa Marta, which somehow hasn't been overrun by tourists yet. Start your mornings with arepas stuffed with eggs and cheese and the best fresh-squeezed fruit juice you’ll ever have. Up for an adventure? Hike through Tayrona National Park, where jungle trails lead to gorgeous beaches and little beachside shacks serve fresh-caught grilled fish and coconut rice. The hikes are long—bring ample water and a bathing suit—but so, so worth it. —Pratika Appaiah, Going Senior Product Designer
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Europe
Scotland
Ideal for: History buffs, solo travelers, retirees, and foodies
Why it made our list: United’s new Newark–Glasgow nonstop and American’s expanded service to Edinburgh further opens the door to Scotland without the London layover—making it one of the easiest summer escapes in the UK for 2026.
Going deeper: There’s a moment on every trip to Scotland: The wind goes quiet, the fog lifts, and you realize you’re standing in a postcard. That’ll happen more than once.
2026 holds the usual lineup of festivals (see: the Fringe) that turn the city into a giant stage. Visit in spring, and you’ll catch cherry blossoms blooming in The Meadows, pink petals framing castle views. Pro tip: Don’t stop at the capital. Scotland rewards the extra miles. Hike to castle ruins in the Highlands, kayak across glassy lochs, or ride the West Highland Line—one of the most scenic train journeys on Earth. In Glasgow, walk through the gates into the Barras market, explore the West End on Byres Road, or skip the city center entirely for neighborhood pubs locals actually go to.
Scotland’s also pushing sustainable travel forward. Electric ferries, eco-stays, and low-impact tours are easier than ever. And with airlines adding new nonstop routes, it’s more accessible from the US than ever before.
The gist: Scotland isn’t about one big moment. It’s about dozens of tiny ones you’ll never forget. —Ren Newman, Going Marketing Coordinator
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Puglia, Italy
Ideal for: Italophiles ready to dig deeper, food-lovers, sun-seekers, and Italian-Americans exploring their roots
Why it made our list: The new Newark–Bari nonstop (debuting May 2026) unlocks a quieter slice of Italy without the usual Rome/Milan connection. And for 60+ other US airports, that means one-stop routing right into Italy’s sun-drenched southern region.
Going deeper: Puglia has long been Italy’s own summer escape—US travelers are just tuning into its charm. You’ve seen Instagram photos of the Polignano a Mare coastline, but the real draw is how effortlessly the region blends postcard beaches, whitewashed towns, and a pace of life that feels like exhaling.
Go beyond the coast, and spend a day inland. In nearby Basilicata, head for Gravina-in-Puglia, which offers a rock-cut landscape similar to famous Matera but with a fraction of the crowds (its dramatic bridge also appeared in No Time To Die). Nearby Altamura rewards hungry travelers with thick-crusted Pane di Altamura and chewy focaccia (for the best, go to di Gesù) and some of the region’s best mozzarella and burrata at family-run Caseificio Dicecca—a tasting there is basically a masterclass in why Puglia is worth the trip.
When all is said and done, if you don’t find yourself dancing in a Salento piazza on a summer night, you’re doing it wrong. —Willis Orlando, Going Senior Manager, Member Performance
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Malta
Ideal for: History lovers, retirees, and adventure enthusiasts
Why it made our list: Delta launches the first-ever nonstop from the US to Malta (from JFK) in June 2026. And with expanded low-cost carrier service keeping fares down across Europe, Malta becomes a rare thing: a sun-soaked Mediterranean island that’s quieter (and cheaper) than its neighbors.
Going deeper: Sun-bleached stone. Turquoise sea. A 7,000-year-old story you can swim through. Malta might be small, but it packs an outsized punch. It houses temples older than the Pyramids of Giza, cities carved by knights, and alleyways that look suspiciously like King’s Landing from Game of Thrones—because they are. In 2026, the little archipelago is stepping further into the spotlight. Valletta’s cultural scene is expanding, with art spaces popping up in medieval fortresses and summer festivals that turn the Grand Harbour into an open-air stage.
But Malta is just begging you to dive deeper. Spend a day in Gozo, its quieter sister island. You’ll find sea caves, salt pans, and fishing villages where lunch lasts three hours and costs ten bucks. Not to mention, you can rent a quad to zip around for the day.
Malta is an easy add-on to a European itinerary, but new nonstop flights from major hubs—and growing budget routes from the US—make it a smart standalone, too. Especially in summer, when other Euro hotspots are slammed, this island is still flying under the radar. —Ren Newman, Going Marketing Coordinator
Northern Spain
Ideal for: Foodies, coastal road-trippers, hikers, and anyone craving a quieter/cooler Barcelona alt
Why it made our list: A new nonstop to Santiago de Compostela plus Northern Spain’s position along the path of 2026’s total solar eclipse make this a compelling Euro stop—and a crowd-free alternative to Barcelona during peak season.
Going deeper: Northern Spain stretches across the Bay of Biscay—from Galicia’s Atlantic cliffs east through Basque Country’s Spanish culinary capital toward the foothills of the Pyrenees. It’s a region defined by dramatic coasts, fishing villages, lush mountains, and a food culture that rivals anywhere in Europe, minus the sticker shock. It’s like Spain meets Ireland meets the Pacific Northwest—cooler temperatures, surf-friendly beaches, and landscapes a departure from the country’s sun-baked south. At the end of the day, Northern Spain rewards travelers who prefer moving at a slower, more nourishing pace.
Near Bermeo, hike to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, an islet made famous by its stone bridge and Atlantic views. Then reward yourself with a bowl of marmitako—potato-and-tuna stew that’s the symbol of Basque summertime—at Artza, or try Restaurante Igeldo or Zazpi in San Sebastián. Speaking of San Sebastián, don’t miss a sagardotegia (Basque cider house): a boisterous environment to enjoy a traditional set menu served with cider straight from the barrel. In Galicia, hike to the secluded Praia de Seaia, where clear water and calm surf make an idyllic afternoon—and keep an eye out for dolphins or pilot whales passing through the bay. —Tips from Marti Buckley’s marmitako guide, Vianessa Castaños’s Guide to Basque Country, and Going members Chloe S., Steve B., and Kelsey H.
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Asia
Seoul, South Korea
Ideal for: Nightlife chasers, food-lovers, culture-obsessed city travelers, and K-pop/K-beauty fans
Why it made our list: New long-haul access from United and Delta makes Seoul easier to reach than ever—and with South Korea’s cultural momentum at an all-time high, 2026 is the perfect year to dive in.
Going deeper: Seoul is a rare megacity that feels both electric and deeply human. One of the coolest things about Korea is how food brings people together. Sizzling BBQ and bubbling stews cooked at the table, plus complimentary, refillable banchan (small side dishes) that give you a preview of the flavors before your main dish even arrives.
Here, nights stretch into mornings, where soju games turn into bar- and club-hopping through Itaewon or Hongdae, which turns into eating late-night street food, like tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) and odeng guk (fish cake soup). Then, you can slow the pace in Ikseon-dong Hanok Village, lined with traditional houses, or book a noraebang (private karaoke) room and sing your heart out. In Seoul, life feels turned all the way up. —Debbie Díaz, Going Senior Product Designer
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Taipei, Taiwan
Ideal for: Foodies, solo explorers, city-breakers, and anyone using Taiwan as a jumping-off point for deeper Asia exploration
Why it made our list: A new EVA Air route (from DFW) plus expanded Scoot service are making Taipei easier and more affordable to reach from the US, and its central position in East Asia makes it an excellent base for deeper regional exploration.
Going deeper: Taipei made our list not just thanks to new nonstop flights from Dallas, Phoenix, and Ontario (CA). It made it because it’s a world-class city that inexplicably gets overlooked by too many American travelers. Taipei is both highly developed and quite inexpensive, plus the food at night markets is worth a trip alone. A sampling from my recent trip: exploding egg yolk taro balls, rou jia mo (aka “Chinese hamburgers”), and scallion pancakes. Total cost: $5.
Bonus reason to go: taking the train down and riding a motorscooter through Taiwan’s unbelievably picturesque Taroko Gorge. —Scott Keyes, Going Founder and Chief Flight Expert
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Philippines
Ideal for: Island-hoppers, underwater adventurers, and wintertime warm-weather chasers
Why it made our list: Expanded US–Manila service on Philippine Airlines (from LAX) makes the Philippines easier to reach. Plus, Cebu’s growing role as a low-cost hub makes costs on the ground reasonable as well—good news for budget travelers.
Going deeper: The Philippines is one of the most flexible destinations in Asia for travelers who want a mix of beaches, culture, and island-to-island variety without strict planning or a huge splurge. New and expanded long-hauls into Manila shorten transpacific travel times, while low-cost carriers like Cebu Pacific and Philippines AirAsia have turned Cebu into a rising alternative gateway with competitive fares across the archipelago. Now, travelers can skip the traditional Manila bottleneck and get to islands and provinces like Palawan, Siargao, Boracay, and Bohol much quicker.
Spend your days diving WWII shipwrecks in Coron, surfing Pacific swells in Siargao, swimming with healthy reefs in Apo Island, or feasting on kinilaw (raw seafood “cooked” in acid) and fresh seafood grilled over coconut husk. There are also Spanish-colonial plazas in Vigan, rice terraces carved into the Banaue highlands, and tons more to see, eat, and enjoy across the Philippines’ 7,000-plus islands. With improved flight access and better island connectivity, getting in and around the Philippines in 2026 is more straightforward than ever before.
Guangzhou, China
Ideal for: Flexible solo travelers, people who build trips around flight deals, and anyone curious about digging deeper into China or Asia travel
Why it made our list: China Southern is rebuilding US service after years of Covid-era reductions, bringing back one of the most reliable ways to reach Asia for under $600 roundtrip. Also, China’s expanded visa-free transit program now includes Guangzhou. Use the city as a stopover for deeper East/Southeast Asia travel, or as the gateway for a dedicated China trip.
Going deeper: Guangzhou is one of China Southern’s biggest hubs, with onward service to Southeast and East Asia, plus major Chinese cities. For US travelers stretching a budget, booking a one-stop itinerary via Guangzhou can make the difference between a) getting across the Atlantic without sticker shock and b) not, because it’s too expensive.
Now with visa-free transit, you can add a stopover of up to 10 days to explore the dim sum halls and riverfront paths before continuing onward to, say, Hong Kong. High-speed trains get you across the border in under an hour. Take a nighttime hike up Victoria Peak—you’ll beat the crowds, beat the heat, and see the city sparkle—or head up to the IFC Mall rooftop for views of Victoria Harbour (free of charge). Looking for a breath of fresh air? Take a short bus ride to the Dragon's Back hike. And bring a swimsuit—you'll want to take a dip at the Big Wave Bay beach.
Beyond China, Guangzhou offers access to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Bali, and more. These routes see frequent fare drops, making it cheap and easy to reach beach towns, food-focused cities, and major cultural centers without breaking the bank. Our advice: Get a good deal with a long layover in Guangzhou, see the city, then continue onward to any Southeast/East Asia place you’d like. —Tips from Scott Keyes, Going Founder and Chief Flight Expert, and Willis Orlando, Going Senior Manager, Member Performance
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Africa
Marrakesh, Morocco
Ideal for: Culture-seekers, foodies, winter-sun chasers, and anyone wanting a destination that feels a world away without a marathon flight
Why it made our list: Increased United service (from EWR), a new Delta direct route (from ATL), and more capacity from Europe make Morocco cheaper and easier to reach in 2026. Goodbye extra travel times and connections. Now, get there directly or with a simple domestic connection.
Going deeper: Marrakesh is often treated as the jumping-off point for Morocco’s landscapes, but the city itself deserves real time. The medina is a maze that rewards slow wandering, with lantern workshops, spice stalls, hidden riad courtyards, and the sound of everyday life echoing through narrow alleyways.
It can feel overwhelming at first, which is why booking a medina food tour on your first day is our number one travel tip for Morocco. You’ll get a look at how families source and combine ingredients, how communal bakeries still anchor neighborhoods and entire communities, and how food shapes daily life. After that, the medina feels far less intimidating, and you’ll be able to venture more confidently into the rest of your Moroccan travels.
From Marrakesh, it’s easy to reach palm-lined oases, ancient mud brick villages in the High Atlas, or even continue toward the Sahara dunes. Morocco may feel a world away, but in 2026, it becomes closer and more accessible than ever. —Willis Orlando, Going Senior Manager, Member Performance
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Oceania
Brisbane and Adelaide, Australia
Ideal for: Food-curious explorers, culture-seekers, and travelers who prefer smaller, more manageable cities with easy access to nature
Why it made our list: United’s new SFO–Adelaide nonstop and American’s DFW–Brisbane route (now bookable with transferable points through AA’s Citi partnership) make it easier than ever to fly straight into Australia’s not-so “second cities” without routing through Sydney.
Going deeper: Sydney and Melbourne might be the two marquee cities in Australia, but affectionately nicknamed “Radelaide” and “Brissie” are worthy of their own treks.
South Australia’s largest city, Adelaide, is small compared to neighboring Melbourne, but its slower pace and size make it more manageable to explore. The city is built on a square grid and hosts frequent festivals that bring the whole city together. Locals joke it’s a “20-minute city,” as the CBD is easily traversed in that time frame. Outside the city limits, you’ll find the Barossa Valley (one of the best wine regions in the world) and wilder, untapped beach escapes like Vivonne Bay on Kangaroo Island, making it a great urban–rural combo.
Brisbane also tends to fly under the radar. Positioned between the Great Barrier Reef to the north and beach communities to the south, it gets passed over by foreign visitors, but its central position is exactly what makes it an ideal base. Less than two hours north, you’ll hit the sunny coast and Noosa, a holiday beach destination beloved by Aussies. Two hours south, you’ll hit the Gold Coast and the start of the Northern Rivers area with renowned beach towns like Byron Bay. And the city of Brisbane itself is a cool mix of cosmopolitan and quiet—and consistent sunshine doesn’t hurt either. –Katy Nastro, Going Spokesperson
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Last updated December 1, 2025
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