When planning a holiday, the hospitality of a destination plays a crucial role in shaping the overall experience. No traveller wants to arrive at their chosen location only to encounter unwelcoming attitudes from locals. Fortunately, Booking.com has unveiled its Annual Traveller Review Awards for 2026, revealing the top ten most welcoming destinations worldwide based on genuine guest feedback.
Global Recognition for Exceptional Hospitality
The prestigious awards draw upon more than 370 million verified reviews submitted by travellers across the globe. This comprehensive data identifies destinations where visitors feel genuinely cared for through personal touches, warm interactions, and hosts who consistently go the extra mile to create memorable stays. The ranking highlights places that excel in making tourists feel valued and welcomed throughout their journeys.
Harrogate's Remarkable Achievement
Among the distinguished locations, the UK town of Harrogate has secured a place on this exclusive list, earning recognition as both one of the world's most welcoming destinations and the United Kingdom's most welcoming spot for 2026. Harrogate is celebrated for its strong sense of community, manifested through friendly independent shops and cafés, beautifully maintained streets, abundant leafy greenery, and an elegant spa heritage that collectively create a warm atmosphere for both residents and visitors.
The town boasts a relaxed yet refined ambience, complemented by a community spirit that makes visitors feel immediately at home. Notable accommodations recognised for their exceptional hospitality include Hotel du Vin & Bistro and Rudding Park, both contributing to Harrogate's reputation as a destination that prioritises guest comfort and satisfaction.
The Complete Top Ten Welcoming Destinations
Here is the complete rundown of destinations that have earned recognition for their outstanding hospitality:
- Montepulciano, Italy - This hilltop town in Tuscany claims the top position, celebrated for its medieval structure, stunning countryside views, and world-renowned winemaking culture. The area is considered one of the finest wine-producing regions globally, with superb vineyards adding to its timeless charm.
- Magong, Taiwan - Securing second place, Magong represents one of Asia's most promising emerging travel destinations. The city is home to the historic Magong Mazu Temple, dating back to the 1400s, and is widely regarded as exceptionally welcoming to international visitors.
- San Martín de los Andes, Argentina - Located in the Neuquén province along the shores of Lake Lácar, this destination offers an adventure-lover's paradise with volcanoes, lakes, rivers, and forests to explore. Activities range from fishing and golf to snowboarding and skiing, all within a welcoming environment.
- Harrogate, United Kingdom - As previously highlighted, this Yorkshire town represents British hospitality at its finest, combining historical elegance with contemporary warmth.
- Fredericksburg, Texas, United States - Once a quiet German settlement, this historic Hill Country town now welcomes over 1.2 million visitors annually as America's second most visited wine destination, known for its exceptionally hospitable environment.
- Pirenópolis, Brazil - This hidden gem features picturesque cobblestone streets and historic 18th-century architecture. Visitors particularly enjoy exploring the region's waterfalls and experiencing the vibrant local food and drink culture.
- Swakopmund, Namibia - Considered Namibia's adventure and sports hub, this coastal town retains unique Germanic architectural influences from its colonial history while offering a warm welcome to travellers exploring the Atlantic coastline.
- Takayama, Japan - Admired for its beautifully preserved Edo-period old town, traditional wooden merchant houses, and deep-rooted cultural warmth. Highlights include the seasonal Takayama Festival and the Hida Minzoku Mura Folk Village open-air museum.
- Noosa Heads, Australia - Beyond Australia's famous beaches, this destination offers excellent hospitality alongside stunning natural attractions including lakes and Noosa National Park, perfect for travellers seeking a relaxing escape.
- Klaipeda, Lithuania - This port city rounds out the top ten with its historic old town featuring German-style wood-framed buildings, vibrant maritime culture, and numerous local festivals that create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Industry Perspective on Hospitality Excellence
James Waters, chief business officer at Booking.com, commented on the significance of these awards: 'From welcoming hosts who go above and beyond for guest stays to expert taxi drivers sharing 'local-only' tips, these personal touches can make a trip truly special for travellers. The Traveller Review Awards continue to shine a well-deserved spotlight on our partners who help create lifelong memories for travellers. It's one of our ways of saying "thank you" from all of us at Booking.com and the hundreds of millions of travellers around the world.'
The recognition of these destinations underscores the growing importance travellers place on genuine hospitality and personal connections when choosing where to spend their holidays. As the travel industry continues to evolve, destinations that prioritise warm welcomes and authentic experiences are increasingly distinguishing themselves in a competitive global market.
