Two European spots named among Expedia’s 2027 destinations of the year

Just 10 cities and regions made the cut, with South Lake Tahoe in California topping the list ahead of Hyogo in Japan and Punta del Este in Uruguay.

South Lake Tahoe in California has just been named Expedia’s 2027 Destination of the Year, with searches up 195% compared to 2025.

North America’s largest alpine lake offers skiing in the winter and kayaking or paddleboarding come summer, making it a perfect year-round destination.

The 10 destinations chosen by the group in its Unpack ’27 trends report span North America, South America, Asia and Australasia – with only two in Europe.

Hyogo in Japan claimed second place, with searches up 95%. The prefecture, which is “one of Japan’s most unsung destinations with coastline, mountains and castles in one stretch”, was also identified as deserving of Expedia’s Smart Travel Health Check.

Introduced last year, the check identifies places managing tourism responsibly while offering rich experiences.

Third place went to Punta del Este, Uruguay’s glamorous coastal city which saw a 65% surge in searches, while fourth place went to Sedona in Arizona, which was praised for its yoga retreats, hiking opportunities and world-class spas.

Rounding out the top five was Busan, the port city on South Korea’s southeast coast, best known for its beaches and film festival (and, of course, the zombie movie Train to Busan).

Trending destinations in Europe

Perugia in Italy came out seventh overall, with searches up 35% compared to last year.

The capital of Umbria, visitors flock here year-round for its 14th-century hilltop city centre filled with historic sights, but the jazz and chocolate festivals are also a big draw.

The only other European destination to make the cut was Chichester in the UK, with searches up 30%.

Located on the West Sussex coast, Chichester is known for its Roman ruins, with a city walls trail looping the historic city.

From here, you can take a stroll through South Downs National Park, feel the sand between your toes at West Wittering Beach or take a trip to Arundel Castle.

Expedia’s 2027 Destinations of the Year

1. South Lake Tahoe, California, US (+195%)
2. Hyogo, Japan (+95%)
3. Punta del Este, Uruguay (+65%)
4. Sedona, Arizona, US (+55%)
5. Busan, South Korea (+50%)
6. Holbox, Mexico (+45%)
7. Perugia, Italy (+35%)
8. The Tweed, New South Wales, Australia (+35%)
9. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada (+35%)
10. Chichester, UK (+30%)

Source: www.euronews.com