The new year is just around the corner, and British Columbia is already on the list of the world’s best places for travellers to visit in 2026.
Lonely Planet, which covers the world’s “most extraordinary places and experiences,” recently revealed its 25 must-visit destinations for the year to come, and B.C. is the only Canadian destination to make the cut.
According to Lonely Planet, the province is “best for embracing nature.”
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“Mossy forests, saw-toothed mountains, white water rivers and wildlife-rich ecosystems: British Columbia is the kind of place that makes you want to dash out of your hotel room and energetically embrace the natural elements,” said Lonely Planet in its rave review.
The travel guide publisher highlighted several reasons as to why B.C. ranked amongst Tunisia, Barbados, and Phuket as the best places to plan travel to in 2026, including its seven national parks, wineries, and North America’s largest ski resort, Whistler.
“The wine industry has exploded in recent years, with the number of wineries tripling between 2004 and 2024.”
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The North Shore mountains and the City of Vancouver also received a special shoutout on the prestigious list.
“Beyond the wilderness, more human elements beckon,” added Lonely Planet. “Multiculturalism is an increasingly important part of the fabric of B.C.
“Not only is the province the ancestral home of 204 First Nations, whose heritage is visible in everything from totem poles to ceremonial masks, but its largest city, Vancouver, has developed into a rich mélange of international food and culture.”
Stanley Park Totem Poles (Shutterstock)
B.C. continues to be at the top of mind for international travellers all year round.
Vancouver Island was the only Canadian destination on a list of top island escapes for winter travel.
The 2025 Snomad Ski Resort Awards also announced the best ski resorts from around the globe, and four are found here in B.C.
And National Geographic recently released its list of unforgettable family destinations across Canada, and two B.C. spots made the cut.
You can view Lonely Planet’s full list of the 25 best destinations in 2026 online.
