The 2026 Condé Nast Winners: A Global Snapshot

In October 2026, the travel industry's most anticipated poll dropped its results, and the map of excellence has shifted in ways that feel both surprising and inevitable. Condé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards, now in their 39th year, have once again become the definitive snapshot of where the world's most discerning travelers are actually going. The numbers are staggering. Nearly 800,000 survey responses flooded in from across the globe, a massive pool of data that weighs in on everything from the best small cities to the most luxurious resorts. This is not a list written by editors or marketing teams. It is a raw, unfiltered vote by people who have packed their bags, landed in foreign airports, and experienced the destinations firsthand. The results paint a picture of a world that values authenticity, resilience, and the kind of quiet luxury that lingers long after the trip ends.

The sheer scale of this year's awards is a testament to the current state of global travel. We are no longer just looking for the most famous landmarks. We are hunting for the best small cities that offer world-class experiences without the chaos of a metropolis. We are seeking islands that feel like secret escapes, even if they are on the radar of thousands of readers. The 2026 winners reflect a shift toward destinations that offer a blend of cultural depth and natural beauty, places where the hospitality is so good that it becomes the main reason for the visit. Whether it is a coastal town in Croatia or a small city in British Columbia, the common thread is a commitment to delivering an experience that feels personal and deeply rewarding. This is the year the world voted for places that make you feel like a guest, not just a tourist.

The Small City Champion

Victoria, British Columbia, has done something almost unheard of in the fickle world of travel rankings. It has been named the Best Small City in the World for the fourth consecutive year. This is a remarkable feat, especially considering the competition. The city, with a population under 350,000, beat out global tourism heavyweights like Venice, Florence, and Amalfi. Paul Nursey, the CEO of Destination Greater Victoria, called the achievement humbling and inspiring. He noted that this recognition speaks to the strength of the city's global reputation and the collective efforts of its tourism industry. The city has made outsized investments in media and public relations, a strategy that is clearly paying off. For travelers, this means a destination that is consistently top-tier, offering a waterfront capital experience that rivals the most famous cities in Europe.

The accolade is not just for the city itself. Three hotels in Greater Victoria were also ranked among the top 10 in Western Canada in the Best Hotels in the World category. The Magnolia Hotel & Spa was highlighted as a standout. This level of consistent excellence suggests that Victoria is not a fluke destination. It is a place that has mastered the art of hospitality. The city offers a perfect balance of nature, culture, and comfort. It is a place where you can walk through historic neighborhoods, enjoy world-class seafood, and relax in a spa without the stress of a major international hub. For 2026, if you are looking for a small city that delivers big, Victoria is the name to remember.

Island Excellence in the Pacific

Across the globe, in the Southern Hemisphere, Tasmania has claimed the title of Best Island in Australasia and the South Pacific. This is a significant win for the Australian state, which is the only destination from the region to feature on this year's island list. Sarah Kingston Clark, CEO of Tourism Tasmania, expressed how special this recognition is, noting that it comes from travelers who have walked the coastlines and eaten at the local tables. She emphasized that the recognition for the island's properties speaks to the quality and character of the experiences available there. Tasmania has a distinctly Tasmanian way of doing things, one that resonates deeply with visitors and stays with them long after they leave. This award is a testament to that unique appeal.

The island's success is bolstered by its top-tier accommodations. The Tasman in Hobart was named among the Best Hotels in the World, praised for its award-winning architecture and celebrated food and wine offering. Meanwhile, Kittawa Lodge on King Island made the list of Best Resorts in the World. Set across 96 acres of pristine coastline, the lodge offers private guided adventures and wildlife encounters. These properties are not just places to sleep. They are integral parts of the Tasmanian experience. They offer a window into the island's natural beauty and its commitment to sustainable tourism. For travelers in 2026, Tasmania is no longer a hidden gem. It is a destination that has earned its place on the world stage.

Croatia's Coastal Brilliance

Europe's Adriatic coast continues to shine, with two Croatian destinations making the top 20 best cities in Europe for 2026. Dubrovnik ranked 15th, while Rovinj took the 17th spot in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards. The ranking evaluates cities based on traveler experiences across categories like food, shopping, and hotels. Dubrovnik was recognized for its exceptionally well-preserved historic center and its famous city walls. The views over the Adriatic are a major draw, and the city has expanded its choice of hotels and restaurants to meet the growing demand. It is a destination that offers a fairytale-like experience, where history and luxury coexist seamlessly.

Rovinj, on the other hand, was highlighted for its distinctive old-town skyline and narrow stone streets. It is an appealing choice for travelers looking to combine a traditional city break with time by the sea and a slower pace. The Istrian coastal town offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with a focus on restaurants and galleries that reflect its artistic heritage. For those who find Dubrovnik a bit too crowded, Rovinj offers a similar aesthetic with a more intimate feel. Both cities prove that Croatia is a powerhouse of European travel in 2026, offering destinations that are as beautiful as they are well-run.

Resilience and Reward in the Caribbean

In the Caribbean, the story of S Hotel Montego Bay is one of remarkable resilience. The hotel climbed to number two in the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Central America category, a significant jump from its fifth-place ranking in 2025. This achievement is particularly impressive given the challenges faced by Montego Bay following Hurricane Melissa. Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett praised the team at S Hotel for delivering at this level during such a difficult year. He noted that when the hurricane struck, the hotel was full, yet guests spoke of receiving 10-star service from a team that went above and beyond. This level of dedication is rare and is a key reason why the hotel has earned such high praise.

The hotel's commitment to its community is also evident in its response to the disaster. Through its S for Shelters program, staff and guests worked together to build 63 one-room shelters for families affected by the hurricane within just a few months. This combination of world-class service and genuine commitment to the community represents the very best of Jamaican tourism. Anne Marie Goffe-Pryce, the General Manager, said the recognition is a tribute to the property's employees. Their deep commitment to delivering the best possible guest experience has paid off, making S Hotel Montego Bay a standout destination for 2026.

A Global Perspective

The 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards offer a comprehensive view of the world's best travel destinations. From the small city charm of Victoria to the island beauty of Tasmania, and the coastal brilliance of Croatia, the list is diverse and exciting. It also includes other notable winners, such as Ballyheigue in County Kerry, Ireland, which was named one of the best beaches in the world. Ireland itself was celebrated as the friendliest country in Europe, a testament to the warm hospitality that is a hallmark of the island. These awards are not just a list of places to go. They are a reflection of the values that travelers hold dear in 2026. Authenticity, resilience, and exceptional service are the keys to winning the hearts of the world's most discerning travelers.

As we look ahead to the rest of 2026 and beyond, these winners serve as a guide. They show us where the industry is heading and what kind of experiences are being valued. Whether you are planning a city break, an island escape, or a beach holiday, the Condé Nast Traveler awards provide a reliable map to the best of what the world has to offer. The data is clear. Travelers are seeking destinations that offer more than just sightseeing. They are looking for connections, for experiences that are meaningful and memorable. The 2026 winners have set the standard, and they are ready to welcome you.