Whether you’re able to grab your passport and head off this year or are looking to spend the next few months planning a dream trip in 2027, these destinations are worthy of a spot on anyone’s bucket list.
Fleeting beauty
Chasing cherry blossoms in Japan
When to go: Late March to mid-May
A spectacular showcase of the beauty of nature, Japan’s famous sakura (cherry blossom) season is at the top of many travellers’ must-see lists. It’s not restricted to one location either, as the trees bloom from the south to the north across the spring, so there are many opportunities to enjoy the experience. In Tokyo and Kyoto, blossoms typically peak from late March to early April. Further north in Hokkaido, the display continues into late April and mid-May.
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While more famous spots, such as Osaka Castle with its 3,000 cherry blossom trees, and Tokyo’s Ueno Park, tend to get extremely busy, there is always the chance to grab a quiet moment by a riverside or local park. Good to know: For an authentic experience, make like a local and have a hanami picnic under the blossoms. This centuries-old tradition sees friends, families and colleagues gather in picturesque areas to enjoy the cherry blossoms and welcome the arrival of spring. There are even night-time light displays in some locations, including temples around Kyoto.
Street party spectacular
Carnival in Rio
When to go: February/March (The week leading up to Ash Wednesday)
Rio de Janeiro’s iconic carnival – or carnaval if you’re Brazilian – needs little introduction. Hailed as the world’s biggest party, it’s a vibrant, unforgettable combination of colour, music, dancing and fun. Traditionally taking place in the days before Lent, in 2026 the main festivities will run from February 13th to 21st.
The gem in the carnival crown every year is undoubtedly the spectacular samba parade at the Sambadrome. Here, Rio’s samba schools compete in a procession of elaborate floats, costumes, choreography and live music. Tickets sell out quickly, but the festival spirit can still be experienced citywide if you miss out. Rio comes alive with street parties (blocos) throughout the week in neighbourhoods from Copacabana to Ipanema, so there is always something to experience.
An insider tip: Seek out the samba school rehearsals, which take place before the main event. It’s a chance to enjoy an authentic Rio experience and some incredible dancing, minus the crowds.
Life in colour
Celebrating Holi in India
When to go: March
Known as the Festival of Colours, India’s spectacular Holi festival commemorates the victory of good over evil and marks the end of winter. Celebrated by millions of Indians, and more than a few visitors, the festival is perhaps most famous for the clouds of coloured powder (gulal) thrown around with joy-filled enthusiasm.
The festival, which falls on March 4th in 2026, is celebrated across India, most notably in northern regions, though traditions vary. The twin towns of Mathura and Vrindavan in the Uttar Pradesh region are a particular focus for many Indians, linked as they are to Krishna, one of the most revered figures in Hinduism.
Day one of the Holi celebrations is known as Holika Dahan, with ceremonial bonfires. The main festivities take place on day two, known as Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi. Streets are filled with people dancing and with music, while people throw brightly hued powders and water on friends and strangers both. A top tip is to wear old clothes, as very little of your Sunday best will recover from that kaleidoscope of colour!
Good to know: First-time Holi attendees may prefer to go to a city such as Delhi or Mumbai, which host parties and music festivals. Opting for organised tours can also provide some helpful cultural context for visitors.
The beautiful game
Fifa World Cup 2026
When to go: June/July
The Fifa World Cup is one of the world’s most notable sporting experiences, and in 2026, the footballing festival – set to be the biggest yet – is being jointly hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico. The tournament kicks off on June 11th, with the final taking place in New Jersey on July 19th. While Ireland’s attendance still hangs in the balance – until after those two playoff games in March – there will be at least three chances to cheer on The Boys in Green if they qualify. They could play South Korea in Guadalajara, Mexico (June 11th), South Africa in Atlanta, US (June 18th) and Mexico in Mexico City (June 24th).
With more than 100 games to be played across 16 cities, there are plenty of chances for any football fan, Irish or otherwise, to turn their holiday into a once-in-a-lifetime experience this summer.
Good to know: Tickets are available via a phased lottery on fifa.com. There are also official package and hospitality deals, which are expensive but would include tickets. If Ireland does make it to the World Cup, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) will receive a ticket allocation too.
