Air Canada Vacations Travellers' Top Picks Awards Reveal 2026's Winning Destinations
- Canadians cast their votes in the second annual Travellers' Top Picks Awards
- Riviera Maya, Santiago, Rio de Janeiro, Funchal, and Phuket lead this year's list of top destinations
MONTRÉAL, Sept. 23, 2026 /CNW/ -- Canadian travellers have spoken. Air Canada Vacations today announced the winners of its second annual Travellers' Top Picks Awards, with more than 1.3 million votes across 10 categories revealing the destinations and experiences topping Canadians' travel wish lists for 2026. From breathtaking beaches and colourful coastal villages to unforgettable food, culture and adventure, this year's results showcase the places inspiring travellers across the country.
"Canadians have an incredible sense of adventure, whether they're rediscovering a favourite destination in a new way or venturing somewhere completely unexpected," said Selma Filali, Senior Director, Marketing and Digital at Air Canada Vacations. "The Travellers' Top Picks Awards offer a fascinating glimpse into the places inspiring Canadians to plan their next getaway and seek out new experiences. This year's results highlight a compelling mix of iconic destinations and emerging discoveries, reflecting Canadians' growing curiosity to explore beyond the familiar. We're excited to see travellers continue to seek out meaningful connections, fresh perspectives and memorable journeys around the world."
Together, these results reveal a mix of returning favourites and new destinations capturing the attention of Canadians this year. Riviera Maya, Mexico led the Beach Vacation category, followed by Cinque Terre, Italy for Bucket List and Santiago, Chile for Foodie Favourite. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil took Adventure Travel, Prague, Czech Republic earned Arts & Culture and Phuket, Thailand topped Wellness.
Meanwhile, Paris, France returned as the top destination for Romance, while New York City, New York was named top City Break for a 2nd year in a row. Funchal, Madeira stood out as this year's Hidden Gem, and Nassau, The Bahamas captured the Family category.
"This year's results offer a clear look at where Canadians want to go next, from relaxing beach escapes and family holidays to food, culture and adventures around the world," said Nino Montagnese, Vice President of Air Canada Vacations. "At Air Canada Vacations, we're here to help travellers turn that inspiration into reality, whether it's taking them to the destination they've been dreaming about or helping them create a vacation that feels truly their own."
See the complete list and learn more about the winning destinations at travellerstoppicks.aircanadavacations.com.
About Air Canada Vacations:
Making dreams travel for over 50 years, Air Canada Vacations is a leading travel expert that delivers travel moments to Canadians. A repeat recipient of the Agents' Choice Award and Travel Pulse Canada Readers' Choice Award, the tour operator offers expertly curated vacation packages that include all-inclusive options, Flight & Hotel packages, tours, cruises, car rentals, excursions and a variety of experiences. With destinations spanning the globe, including Mexico and the Caribbean, Central and South America, Europe, Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia, Air Canada Vacations makes travel easy and memorable for Canadians. For a seamless travel experience, Air Canada Vacations offers enhanced customer service with access to destination representatives in key regions, ensuring local service and support throughout the trip. Air Canada Vacations packages include flights on board Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge and the ability to earn and redeem Aeroplan® points. To learn more about making your dreams travel, visit aircanadavacations.com.
SOURCE Air Canada Vacations
For more information, interviews, or high-resolution images, please contact: [email protected]
Share this article