From India’s great Taj Mahal to Peru’s ancient Machu Picchu, the original seven wonders of the world remain at the top of every globetrotter’s dream list. But if you’re looking for a list of global wonders to explore
in 2026 that are different, aren’t too crowded, and will make for a beautiful story, here are some of the most unique and historic destinations that you can visit for a perfect escape from your busy daily lifestyle.
Despite their rich heritage and landscape, these sites remain underrated gems in the global tourism scene. A trip covering these sites would take a globetrotter across different countries in a happy, soul-nourishing experience to savour for a lifetime.
Matera, Italy
Identified as the 2026 Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue (MCCD), Matera is set to host a blend of artist residences, cultural exhibitions, different workshops, film screenings and live performances all across the year. Celebrating the theme of ‘Terre Immerse’ (immersed lands), Matera seamlessly combines the streets and the alleys in what is essentially a remote region of Southern Italy. Amidst the rocky terrains are the Palaeolithic caves, which housed families until the late 1950s and have now been turned into luxury hotels.
Banff National Park, Canada
It is Canada’s oldest national park, where skiing is the most popular activity among the visitors. Adventure tourists may also go for horse riding, rock climbing, canoeing and hiking amid its turquoise lakes, forested valleys and alpine-style meadows in an overall tranquil atmosphere. In 2026, a train service connecting Banff National Park to nearby regions will also be introduced. Tourism to this region is expected to witness a surge next summer when Canada co-hosts the FIFA World Cup.
Bradford Pennines Gateway, England
This getaway is part of a nationwide initiative to protect and celebrate the UK’s natural heritage. It also plays a part in enhancing the country’s biodiversity and giving local communities greater access to the natural resources. A trip to this 1,272-hectare region covers Ilkley Moor, Penistone Hill Country Park, Harden Moor and Bingley North Bog. The landscape also contains the villages of Haworth, Stanbury and Thornton and nearby ancient sites, medieval bridges and secret waterfalls.
Djemila, Algeria
Part of Africa’s largest country, Djemila is home to the Roman ruins on its northern side. The city was originally founded by Emperor Septimius Severus as a retirement village for elderly centurions. The forums, basilicas and archways of the city are visible in the open surroundings today. Stunningly, archaeologists suggest that despite the humungous nature of the ruins, only 40 per cent of the ancient city’s original heritage has been discovered.
Faroe Islands
Now accessible via an hour-long trip from London, this North Atlantic archipelago is home to ancient landscapes, cliffs, and turf roofs. Travellers can explore the historic villages of Gásadalur and Saksun while covering the region. You can also visit the coastline near the kayak. The region’s capital, Tórshavn, boasts world-class restaurants, including the famous Michelin garlanded Raest.
Richtersveld, South Africa
Situated in the north-western corner of South Africa’s Northern Cape province, the Richtersveld is a vast desert landscape. From rugged terrains to coastal plains and more, the region can be a glorious natural escape. It also hosts the Orange River, which acts as a border to the neighbouring country of Namibia. Due to its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
El Imposible National Park, El Salvador
It’s a dense green tropical forest that attracts wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the globe. Home to more than 500 species of plants, over 100 mammal species, 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, as well as 285 bird species, the El Impossible National Park has a great diversity of flora and fauna. Apart from these, the wetlands of the region include multiple rivers and archaeological sites.
