National Geographic Names Norway’s Vestland the Top Travel Destination for 2027, Catalina Wins Readers’ Choice Award

2027's Most Exciting Travel Destinations Revealed

According to УНІАН — Туризм: National Geographic has unveiled its list of the 25 best travel spots worldwide for 2027, highlighting Norway’s Vestland region as the premier destination. Nestled around the historic city of Bergen, Vestland captivates visitors with its breathtaking fjords and natural wonders. Meanwhile, California’s Catalina Island earned the distinction of 'Readers’ Choice' award. This announcement follows similar rankings from well-known travel authorities such as Lonely Planet and Skyscanner, reflecting growing global interest in unique and off-the-beaten-path locations.

Highlights from the National Geographic Travel List

The comprehensive list features 25 diverse destinations, including:

• Vestland, Norway
• Penang, Malaysia
• Luxor, Egypt
• Madison, Wisconsin, USA
• Puerto Rico
• Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland
• Niigata, Japan
• Chengdu, China
• Pacific Coast Highway, California, USA
• Jaipur, India
• Grenada
• Salvador, Brazil
• Cabo Froward, Chile
• Santander, Spain
• Normandy, France
• Southern Ozarks, USA
• Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
• Caucasus Trail, Armenia
• Melbourne, Australia
• Leipzig, Germany
• Baltimore, Maryland, USA
• Malawi
• Maya Ka'an, Mexico
• Gdańsk, Gdynia, and Sopot, Poland
• Kuélap, Peru

Vestland is celebrated for its dramatic fjords that carve through the southwest Norwegian landscape. Visitors are especially encouraged to explore the stunning Hardangerfjord, the Folgefonna National Park, and the iconic Trolltunga rock formation towering 700 meters above a lake. The 16-kilometer-long Nærøyfjord is another natural marvel attracting travelers worldwide. Bergen itself, once a key hub of the Hanseatic League, enchants with its medieval Bryggen quarter, famous for cobblestone streets, colorful wooden facades, and historic charm.

“Vestland’s fjords slice through the rugged terrain of southwestern Norway-a wild realm of sheer cliffs, turquoise waters, and cascading waterfalls that seem to leap from the pages of Scandinavian legends. The vast scale of these natural wonders offers visitors a majestic wilderness experience wherever they venture.”

The release of this National Geographic ranking underscores a rising trend toward seeking travel experiences that emphasize nature and authenticity. By spotlighting remarkable yet lesser-known destinations like Vestland, the list aims to inspire travelers to broaden their horizons and embrace the extraordinary diversity our world has to offer.

As travelers seek unique experiences, Booking.com has also released its list of top travel spots for 2027, featuring a range of exciting destinations that cater to diverse interests. This growing trend emphasizes the importance of exploring lesser-known locales, making it an ideal time to consider both the breathtaking fjords of Vestland and other emerging hotspots around the globe.