Start planning now for these major 2026 travel-worthy events

Whether it’s the concert of a lifetime, cheering on your country at the FIFA World Cup or chasing the sun’s path during an eclipse, when it comes to travelling for major events, planning ahead is essential. Fortunately, these events also offer an excuse to design an incredible trip before and after the big-ticket show. 

In 2026, there are a number of major events that may inspire you to plan a trip—and then explore further afield. Here, some ideas to get the wheels turning. 

Olympic Games Italy hosts the Winter Olympics in February with competition based in and around Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo in the north. Attending the Games themselves will provide plentiful opportunities to explore Italy’s cosmopolitan city, home to art, history and creativity, and the heights of the Dolomites. These locations are also prime launching points for off-season exploration in the Italian Lakes, Piemonte, Veneto and elsewhere in the Dolomites. There are world-famous wine regions to discover and the chance to see cities like Venice as the locals do. You can take on the mountains with hikes and other alpine activities while also getting a taste of regional delicacies—the sort that are only available in the small towns where they were born. 

Solar eclipse August 12, 2026 will see another solar eclipse. If you missed 2024s, or were able to capture the magic of the natural event and want to experience it again, there are a couple places in Europe that should be on your radar. The path of totality crosses over both Iceland and Spain. While there’s always a chance cloud cover might dampen the excitement of soaking in the natural phenomenon, both countries offer incredible terrain for summer adventures. Tailor a trip in Iceland that will ensure you’re perfectly positioned to catch the eclipse while also filling your day with thrilling hikes, glistening glaciers and relaxing hot springs. Or, in Spain, where the path of totality will arc over the centre of the country and the stunning Balearic Islands, you can experience one-of-a-kind cultural experience in Basque Country, indulge in Spain’s famed culinary scene, and lounge on the shores of Mallorca. Truly, a summer to remember.

FIFA World Cup Closer to home, the 2026 World Cup will be played across Canada, the United States and Mexico. Games are slated for 16 cities across North America, including Los Angeles and Vancouver, perfect gateways to explore the wild and wondrous Pacific Northwest. The moody wilderness of British Columbia is perfect for hikers looking to explore new terrain while escaping summer’s heat. It’s a region rich in Indigenous culinary and cultural experiences—something that sets this part of the country apart from the rest of the continent. Or head to the Rockies to see nature at its best. This is an outdoor adventure lover’s playground, with options for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking and more. 

Commonwealth Games Athletes from 70 countries compete in these Games, held every four years. The 2026 edition will take place in Glasgow, Scotland in March. After cheering on elite athletes, get active yourself with a hiking adventure in the Scottish highlands, where trails are steeped in history. Extend your journey south, with time in England’s Lake District, prime geography for a relaxing walking trip that immerses you in nature.  

Given the rarity of these events, you can expect many travellers to be making their own journeys. So if any of these experiences are on your bucket list, the best time to start planning is today.