Málaga glows at sunset, one of the Spanish destinations highlighted by Forbes for 2026.
Credit : LucVi, Shutterstock
If you’re already day-dreaming about your next break, you’re not alone. As 2026 gets underway, the annual travel lists are starting to appear – and Forbes has just released its latest round-up of 26 destinations around the world it says are worth travelling to this year.
The list stretches from Europe to far-flung corners of the globe, including places like Batumi in Georgia and Uganda for those chasing something a little more adventurous. But there’s especially good news if Spain happens to be your happy place. Two Spanish destinations made the cut, meaning you don’t need a long-haul flight to enjoy a trip that’s earned global attention.
According to Forbes, one of the picks is already a firm favourite with travellers across Europe, while the other continues to gain momentum as more visitors discover what it has to offer. Together, they highlight just how much variety Spain still brings to the table — from historic cities to lively modern culture.
Why Andalucía remains a favourite for European travellers
It won’t surprise many people that Andalucía has secured a place on Forbes’ list. The southern region has long been loved for its blend of history, architecture and unmistakable atmosphere, especially in cities such as Seville, Córdoba and Granada.
Walk through Seville and you’ll quickly understand the appeal, with its grand cathedral, shaded plazas and busy streets full of life. Córdoba’s Mosque-Cathedral continues to impress first-time visitors, while Granada’s Alhambra remains one of Spain’s most admired landmarks. These headline sights draw people in – but they’re only part of the story.
What keeps Andalucía interesting is what lies beyond the obvious stops. Smaller towns, quieter neighbourhoods and less-visited corners reward anyone willing to slow down and explore. Add in regular festivals, exhibitions and a steadily evolving cultural scene, and the region never feels stuck in the past.
For many travellers, Andalucía also delivers that relaxed Spanish rhythm people crave on holiday – long lunches, warm evenings and a sense that life is meant to be enjoyed rather than rushed. It’s easy to see why Forbes believes the region deserves another moment in the spotlight in 2026.
Madrid’s growing popularity shows no signs of slowing
The second Spanish destination chosen by Forbes is Madrid, a city that seems to be hitting its stride as a major European hotspot. Visitor numbers continue to rise, and the capital has developed a reputation for always offering something new.
One of Madrid’s strongest draws remains its food scene. From traditional bars serving classic dishes to newer spots experimenting with modern flavours, there’s no shortage of places to eat and drink. At the same time, new cultural spaces, exhibitions and events keep appearing across the city, giving repeat visitors fresh reasons to return.
Part of Madrid’s charm lies in its everyday energy. Sitting on a terrace watching the world go by, wandering through lively neighbourhoods or stumbling across a local market can feel just as memorable as ticking off famous landmarks.
That said, the big sights still matter. The Royal Palace remains a must for many visitors, the Puerta de Alcalá continues to attract camera lenses, and just outside the city, royal sites such as Aranjuez and La Granja de San Ildefonso offer easy day trips for those keen to explore further.
All of this helps explain why Madrid’s tourism boom shows little sign of easing – and why Forbes sees the capital as a destination worth prioritising this year.
Spain keeps its place on the world travel map in 2026
While Forbes’ list covers destinations across the globe, the inclusion of both Andalucía and Madrid underlines Spain’s continued appeal for international travellers. They offer very different experiences – one rooted in layered history and regional character, the other driven by urban energy and constant reinvention – yet both deliver plenty to fill a memorable getaway.
For travellers already based in Europe, the appeal is even clearer: excellent transport links, familiar comforts, and the chance to enjoy world-class culture without crossing continents.
As more people start mapping out their 2026 travel plans, Spain’s double appearance on Forbes’ list serves as a reminder that some of the most rewarding trips might be closer than you think.
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