Luxury travel doesn’t have to mean five-figure price tags. Some of my favorite destinations for 2026 offer high-end experiences, boutique hotels, and jaw-dropping scenery, all without the sticker shock.

If you’re craving travel that feels indulgent and intentional, this list is for you.

1. Portugal

Elegant stays, coastal wine regions, and Michelin-star meals that won’t drain your budget. Portugal is one of Europe’s best values in 2026, especially outside of summer.
What I love: You can do a private sail, wine tasting, and boutique hotel in Lisbon for less than a similar day in France or Italy.

2. Colombia

Cartagena is all color and culture. Medellín blends spring weather with modern design. And the luxury hotels? Surprisingly dreamy.
What I love: Colombia delivers warm hospitality and vibrant cities at a fraction of the cost of comparable Latin American hotspots.

3. Croatia

Island-hopping, seaside villas, and historic coastal towns with lower costs than Italy or Greece. Croatia is stunning and still a bit under-the-radar for American travelers.
What I love: Yacht days and cliffside dinners without Riviera prices.

4. Turkey

From Cappadocia cave suites to Istanbul’s rooftop bars, Turkey is a place where luxury is layered and surprisingly affordable.
What I love: You get ancient history, design-forward hotels, and incredible food, all at excellent value.

5. South Africa

It feels like a splurge, but thanks to the exchange rate, South Africa gives you five-star experiences for far less than Europe.
What I love: Safari lodges, wine country estates, and Cape Town stays that overdeliver.

6. Vietnam

Spa resorts, sunrise cruises in Halong Bay, and street food that rivals any Michelin plate. Vietnam blends experience with affordability.
What I love: The richness of culture and the beauty of the landscape. It feels expansive without being expensive.

7. Argentina

In 2026, the dollar stretches farther here than almost anywhere else. Think stylish stays in Buenos Aires, horseback riding in wine country, and glacier hikes in Patagonia.
What I love: Argentina combines cosmopolitan flair and wild landscapes, often for less than a dinner out in New York.

8. Mexico (Beyond the Resorts)

San Miguel de Allende, Oaxaca, and Valle de Guadalupe bring a different kind of luxury. These cities blend cultural richness with boutique stays that feel elevated without being overpriced.
What I love: Incredible food, meaningful design, and the chance to do something different than a typical beach vacation.

Want a Trip That Feels Luxe and Smart?

Let’s build a luxury travel trip that aligns with your values and your budget. With the right timing and design, it’s entirely possible to have a beautifully high-end experience without overspending.

👉 Book a complimentary planning call and let’s find the destination that delivers both.