National Geographic Selects 25 Global Destinations for 2027, Including Six in Europe

Key points

• National Geographic's 2027 list includes six European destinations: Vestland (Norway), Tricity (Poland), Leipzig (Germany), Normandy (France), Santander (Spain), and Dumfries and Galloway (Scotland).
• Poland's Tricity area (Gdańsk, Gdynia, Sopot) was highlighted for its blend of coastal landscapes, historical heritage, and modernist architecture, with Gdynia's Modernist Centre recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
• Madison, Wisconsin, was named a top destination for its lakes, bike paths, and farm-to-table cuisine, marking its first appearance on the list.
• Normandy, France, was selected to coincide with 'Millenium 2027: European Year of the Normans,' celebrating the 1,000th anniversary of William the Conqueror's birth with over 1,000 events.
• Maya Ka'an in Mexico was recognized for its community-based tourism model, featuring 78 indigenous Maya communities and activities that preserve local culture and natural landscapes.

Background

In September 2026, Lonely Planet released its 'Best in Travel 2027' list, which included 50 destinations globally. That list featured seven U.S. entries, including California's Coastal Redwoods, and ten European selections, such as Croatia's Šibenik and Germany's Dessau. The current National Geographic list offers a different perspective, focusing on 25 specific destinations rather than a broader range of experiences.

How outlets are covering it

Euronews emphasized the cultural and historical significance of the European selections, particularly highlighting the Tricity area in Poland and the upcoming Norman celebrations in Normandy. Mexico News Daily focused on the community-based tourism model in Maya Ka'an, noting its potential to extend tourism benefits to local communities. The Travel Magazine highlighted Madison, Wisconsin's, outdoor and culinary attractions, while Backstage Country noted the limited number of U.S. destinations on the list, contrasting it with the broader global selection.

Why it matters

The list provides a curated guide for travelers seeking diverse experiences in 2027, from cultural festivals to natural wonders. It also highlights the growing emphasis on sustainable and community-based tourism, as seen in the selection of Maya Ka'an and the Tricity area.

What to watch

Travelers can expect increased interest in the selected destinations, particularly those with upcoming events or new attractions, such as the opening of art museums in Santander and the Scottish Dark Sky Observatory in Dumfries and Galloway.