Picture this: it’s early 2027, your annual leave is approved, and you’re staring at a world map wondering where to go next. Whether you’re chasing warm beaches, ancient history, dramatic landscapes, or just somewhere refreshingly different, the best countries to visit in 2027 offer an incredible mix of experiences for every type of traveller. From newly reopened destinations to places finally hitting their stride on the global travel scene, there’s never been a better time to start planning your next big adventure.

Why 2027 Is Shaping Up to Be a Landmark Year for Travel

Travel trends are shifting fast. More travellers are moving away from the obvious Instagram hotspots and seeking out places with real depth — culture, food, nature, and genuine local experiences. In 2027, several destinations are hitting a sweet spot: improved infrastructure, growing tourism scenes that haven’t yet become overcrowded, and increasingly accessible flights from major hubs.

It’s also worth noting that visa policies around the world continue to evolve. Many countries are rolling out simplified e-visa systems and visa-on-arrival options that make spontaneous or last-minute trip planning far easier than it used to be. If you hold a Tier 1 passport from the US, UK, Australia, or EU, you’ll enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to the vast majority of these destinations — and that’s a genuine advantage worth using.

Flight connections have also improved considerably. Emirates, Flydubai, and Air Arabia continue expanding their networks, meaning more direct or single-stopover routes from the Gulf region to destinations that once required complicated multi-leg journeys. That alone opens up a whole new tier of travel possibilities.

Top Countries to Put on Your 2027 Travel List

Georgia (the Country, Not the State)

Georgia continues its rise as one of the most talked-about destinations in Europe and Central Asia. Tbilisi has an extraordinary old town, world-class wine culture (Georgia is where wine was essentially invented — over 8,000 years ago), and the Caucasus mountains for hiking and skiing. It’s roughly a 3-hour flight from Dubai on Flydubai, and you’ll find it refreshingly affordable at around $50–70/day (AED 185–260).

Colombia

Medellín’s transformation over the past two decades is one of the most remarkable urban stories in the world, and by 2027, the city is firmly established as a cultural and creative hub. Cartagena’s colonial architecture on the Caribbean coast, the lush coffee region of Salento, and the Amazon access from Leticia make Colombia a multi-destination country in one. Flights from Dubai with a connection typically run 18–22 hours, but the payoff is absolutely worth it. Budget around $60–90/day (AED 220–330).

Vietnam

Vietnam never really goes out of style, but new high-speed rail links planned for 2026–2027 will make moving between Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City faster and easier than ever. One thing most visitors miss is the Central Highlands around Dalat — cooler temperatures, strawberry farms, and coffee plantations that feel like a completely different country. It’s about a 7-hour flight from Dubai on Emirates. Daily budgets sit around $40–60 (AED 145–220).

Portugal

Lisbon and Porto remain beloved, but the Alentejo region — think rolling plains, cork forests, medieval walled towns, and some of the best wine in Europe — is where travellers in the know are heading. Portugal also offers strong digital nomad visa options, making it appealing if you’re blending work and travel. It’s around a 7-hour flight from Dubai, and US, UK, and AU passport holders enter the Schengen area visa-free. Expect to spend $90–130/day (AED 330–480).

Oman

Right on the doorstep for Gulf-based travellers, Oman deserves far more attention than it gets. The wadis, desert dunes of Wahiba Sands, the souks of Muscat, and the dramatic Hajar Mountains offer incredible variety. It’s a 1.5-hour flight from Dubai, visa-free for most Western passport holders, and genuinely one of the safest and most welcoming destinations in the region. Budget around $70–100/day (AED 260–370).

Practical Tips for Planning Your 2027 Trip

Good travel in 2027 is all about planning smarter, not harder. Here are some things to keep in mind as you lock in your destination:

Book flights early: Aim for at least 3–4 months ahead for popular routes, especially during Northern Hemisphere summer (June–August) and school holiday windows.
Check visa requirements carefully: Even with e-visa systems improving, processing times vary. Don’t leave it to the last week.
Travel insurance is non-negotiable: Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation, especially for adventure-focused destinations.
Carry a mix of payment options: Many emerging destinations are still cash-heavy in rural areas — don’t rely solely on card or Apple Pay.
Research shoulder season dates: The best travel experiences often happen just before or after peak season — fewer crowds, lower prices, and more authentic encounters.
Download offline maps: Google Maps and Maps.me work brilliantly offline. Don’t assume you’ll have data everywhere.

Best Times to Visit These Destinations in 2027

Timing your trip right makes an enormous difference. For Georgia, the sweet spots are May–June and September–October — warm, green, and before the ski crowds arrive. Colombia is best visited December–March (dry season on the Caribbean coast) or July–August. Vietnam’s best months are destination-dependent: Hanoi shines in October–November, while the south is great November–April.

Portugal is wonderful in May, June, and September — warm enough for beaches but not overwhelmed by summer crowds. Oman is best enjoyed October through March when temperatures are genuinely pleasant; June to September can reach 45°C in some areas, which makes exploring significantly less enjoyable.

If you’re travelling from the Gulf and planning around Ramadan or Eid Al Adha, factor in that many popular routes book out extremely quickly during those windows. Getting in early with your planning really does pay off.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Countries to Visit in 2027

Which destination on this list is best for first-time international travellers?

Portugal is an excellent choice for first-timers. English is widely spoken, public transport is straightforward, the food is delicious, and it’s very safe. Oman is another great option if you’re travelling from the Gulf region — it’s easy to navigate, incredibly welcoming, and culturally fascinating without being overwhelming.

What’s the most budget-friendly country on this list?

Vietnam is the most budget-friendly option, with comfortable daily budgets of $40–60 (AED 145–220) covering accommodation, food, transport, and activities. Georgia is a close second, especially if you enjoy wine and local cuisine — both are remarkably affordable there.

Are these destinations safe for solo travellers?

All five destinations listed here are considered safe for solo travellers, including solo women, with sensible precautions. Oman and Portugal consistently rank among the safest countries in the world. Colombia requires a bit more awareness in certain urban areas, but Medellín and Cartagena are well-established tourist destinations with good infrastructure for solo visitors.

The world is wide open in 2027, and the best countries to visit are waiting for you to show up and explore them properly. Whether you’re after adventure, culture, beaches, or food, these destinations will absolutely deliver. Start researching, get your passport sorted, and make 2027 the year you take that trip you’ve been putting off. Your next destination is closer than you think — head over to nextdestinationai.com for more destination guides, packing lists, and travel inspiration to help you plan every detail.