TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The continent of Asia offers a rich spectrum of cultural experiences. From delicious culinary traditions to festivals, local markets, concerts, and much more. Several of the best cities in Asia can be the choice for travelers planning trips in 2026.
Travelers can tailor the type of experience they want with their time of visit. For example, the winter months of December to February are the ideal time to explore much of India, the United Arab Emirates, and Saudi Arabia. While the summer months from May to October are perfect for visiting the Maldives, Vietnam, as well as some regions in Japan and Korea.
As reported by Travel + Leisure, here are some of the best destinations in Asia to visit in 2026:
1. Siem Reap, Cambodia
If you have a fondness for ancient monuments and ruins, Siem Reap is the perfect choice. Its standout destinations include Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, Bayon Temple, Preah Khan Temple, Pub Street, Tonle Sap River, and the Cambodia Landmine Museum. The best time to visit is from November to March.
2. Hoi An, Vietnam
A port city with canals and a blend of Chinese, Vietnamese, and French architecture. Enjoy night markets, beaches, and boat tours on the Thu Bon River. The best time to visit is from February to April.
3. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
This destination is known for its luxury shopping, beaches, giant malls, magnificent attractions, and desert adventures such as dune safaris and camping. This includes Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Wild Wadi Water Park, Dubai Creek, and Palm Jumeirah.
4. Koh Samui, Thailand
An island with palm-fringed beaches, luxury spas, fresh seafood, and accommodations from beachfront to mountain with beautiful views. Ideal for a relaxing holiday. Some popular attractions on the island include Chaweng Beach, Tarnim Magic Garden, Lamai Beach, Samui Elephant Sanctuary, Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park, and Lad Koh Viewpoint.
5. Shanghai, China
This largest city in China combines modernity such as amusement parks and skyscrapers with traditions like botanical gardens, ancient temples, and bustling street markets. Visit Shanghai Museum, Shanghai Natural History Museum, Yu Garden, Jade Buddha Temple, Longhua Temple, and Huangpu River waterfront.
6. Busan, South Korea
This port city offers beach tourism, mountains, hiking trails, historic temples, bars with ocean views, and markets such as Jagalchi. In addition to Haeundae Beach, travelers can also explore Gwangalli Beach, Songdo Beach, Gamcheon Culture Village, Jagalchi Market, Yongdusan Park, Beomeosa Temple, and Lotte World Adventure Busan.
7. Alleppey, India
Want to enjoy a different side of India? Alleppey in Kerala has waters that can be explored with houseboats, kayaking, and canoeing. The city also has beautiful beaches such as Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, and religious sites.
8. George Town, Malaysia
The heart of Penang city is bustling. There are many options for tourists, from shopping centers, historic buildings, hiking trails, art walks, delicious street food, to cable cars. Major tourist attractions in this city include Penang Hill, Pinang Peranakan Mansion, Penang Botanic Gardens, Chew Jetty, Kek Lok Si Temple, and Ghost Museum.
9. Manila, Philippines
The capital of the Philippines also offers a lot for tourists, from art, culture, history, to adventures. Visit the city between December to February. The main tourist attractions in this city include the walled city of Intramuros, Rizal Park, Santiago Fortress, Ayala Museum, San Agustin Church, Casa Manila, and Manila Ocean Park.
10. Pokhara, Nepal
This lush valley with water and mountains in Nepal offers a peaceful atmosphere. Travelers can enjoy some adventurous activities such as zip-lining and paragliding, explore nature, enjoy hot drinks in lakeside cafes, or visit cultural sites such as the World Peace Pagoda.
11. Shirakawa-go, Japan
If you are tired of the hustle and bustle of Japanese cities, visit this traditional village that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travelers can enjoy the traditional Japanese countryside views, see centuries-old gassho-zukuri farmhouses, and taste local dishes. The best time to visit this village is between December to March, and March to May.
12. Bhutan
About 70 percent of Bhutan is dense forest, and the rest is temples, villages, towns, and historical sites. This country with negative carbon emissions evaluates its progress based on the Gross National Happiness Index. Some of the main tourist attractions in Bhutan include Paro Valley, Punakha Dzong Fortress, Tiger's Nest Monastery, Buddha Dordenma Statue, Tashichho Dzong, Dochula Pass, and Phobjikha Valley.
13. Kandy, Sri Lanka
For nature lovers, Kandy is the perfect place to find tranquility and relaxation. There are many nature trails to be followed, tea plantations to be visited, as well as gardens and wildlife sanctuaries to be explored. Such as the Ceylon Tea Museum, Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya, Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth), and Kandy Lake.
14. Maldives
The Maldives is the best choice for water sports enthusiasts, from snorkeling and surfing to jet skiing and more. Cruise at sunset, enjoy a relaxing spa day with pristine beach views, and experience the local culture through food and markets in the Maldives.
15. Jaipur, India
Known as the pink city, Jaipur is home to many forts, palaces, royal grounds, museums, and more. It is also known for its delicious Rajasthani cuisine, full of fried snacks, honey sweets, and other dishes.
16. Nha Trang, Vietnam
This coastal resort town is famous for its pristine beaches, diving locations, island cruises, and stunning coral reefs. From high-tech amusement parks to historical temples, delicious street food, natural hot springs, and cable cars that allow you to enjoy stunning views from a height.
17. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai in Thailand is perfect for enjoying a short or long relaxing holiday. Whether it's exploring local markets, visiting elephant sanctuaries, or strolling through the historic Old City.
18. Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei offers bustling night markets, a beautiful blend of traditional and modern culture, delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and a variety of experiences. From relaxing on the beach, enjoying the beauty of natural hot springs, exploring museums, to shopping to your heart's content at the Shilin Night Market, there is much to do here for all ages and backgrounds.
Putri Az Zahra Suherman contributed to the writing of this article.
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