Hobart has been recognised as one of the world’s leading travel destinations, earning a place in Expedia’s Top 10 Global Destinations of the Year for 2026.
The announcement forms part of Expedia’s annual Unpack ’26 travel trends report, which analyses global traveller interest through real-time search data. Hobart’s inclusion was driven by a 25 per cent year-on-year increase in flights and accommodation searches between 2024 and 2025.
Importantly, Hobart was the only Australian city to make the prestigious list, joining destinations such as Big Sky (Montana, USA), Okinawa (Japan), Sardinia (Italy), Phu Quoc (Vietnam), and Ucluelet (Canada).
Hobart was also among just six destinations globally to receive an Expedia ✔ Smart Travel Health Check — a new benchmark inspired by the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) sustainable destination management framework. The check recognises places that offer authentic cultural and natural experiences without the congestion seen in many of the world’s busiest cities.
According to Expedia, the Unpack ’26 list is based on emerging travel patterns and highlights destinations showing meaningful growth in global traveller interest. The new Smart Travel Health Check, introduced for the first time this year, identifies destinations where tourism growth aligns with sustainable principles, local culture, and community wellbeing.
For Hobart and Southern Tasmania, the recognition reinforces the region’s growing international appeal — a place where nature, creativity, and connection to community continue to shape an exceptional visitor experience.
“It’s fantastic to see Hobart recognised internationally alongside such diverse destinations,” said Alex Heroys, CEO of Destination Southern Tasmania. “This recognition reinforces the region’s reputation for delivering authentic and sustainable experiences, shaped by our creative communities and stunning natural environment.”
About Expedia’s Destinations of the Year
The Unpack ’26 Destinations of the Year are based on increases in flight and accommodation searches on Expedia for travel between January 1–December 31, 2024, compared with the same period in 2025.
Destinations marked with a ✔ meet the Smart Travel Health Check framework aligned with WTTC principles, identifying places that deliver rich cultural and natural experiences without the overcrowding typical of the world’s busiest cities.