Bali has been named the World’s Best Travel Destination for 2026 by TripAdvisor, marking a historic milestone for the Indonesian island as it clinches first place in the platform’s prestigious Travelers’ Choice Awards: Best of the Best Destinations 2026. This achievement reflects global travellers’ overwhelmingly positive reviews and Bali’s enduring international appeal.
For the first time in the island’s history of competing in TripAdvisor’s rankings, Bali has reached the number-one position, surpassing iconic global destinations such as London, Dubai, Hanoi, Paris and Rome in the annual list compiled from millions of traveller reviews throughout 2025.
Tourism Minister Widiyanti Putri Wardhana expressed deep appreciation for the trust and positive evaluations from visitors around the world. “This recognition proves that Bali continues to be a global tourism magnet,” she said, emphasising the importance of international feedback in shaping Bali’s status on the world s tage.
The accolade is based on the Best of the Best Destination List — the top tier of TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards — which highlights destinations that have received exceptional traveller ratings, reviews and engagement over the previous year. Bali’s achievement not only captures its scenic beauty and cultural richness, but also recognises its ability to deliver meaningful and memorable experiences to visitors from across the globe.
Beyond being crowned the world’s best, Bali also earned additional honours in several key categories. These include:
- Best Honeymoon Destination — ranking first and solidifying its appeal for couples seeking romance in a tropical paradise.
- Top 10 Best Cultural Destinations — acknowledging Bali’s deeply rooted heritage, traditional arts and spiritual experiences.
- Top 10 Best Solo Travel Destinations — recognising the island’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse attractions for independent explorers.
- Top 20 Trending Cities in the World — signalling Bali’s broader relevance as a vibrant and dynamic travel hub in 2026.
Bali’s triumph in 2026 highlights the island’s resilience and adaptability in a competitive global marketplace. After years of consistently ranking within the Top 10 on TripAdvisor’s lists, this top placement underscores Bali’s evolution as a destination capable of captivating diverse types of travellers, from beach lovers and cultural enthusiasts to honeymooners and solo adventurers.
Several aspects contribute to Bali’s lasting charm. The island is renowned for its spectacular natural landscapes: pristine beaches fringed with turquoise waters, lush rice terraces tumbling down hillsides and dramatic volcanoes offering sunrise treks. Interwoven with this natural canvas is a rich tapestry of Balinese culture; from ornate Hindu temples and vibrant festivals to traditional dance and music performances, visitors come to Bali for a unique and immersive cultural experience.
Hospitality also plays a vital role in Bali’s global reputation. Warm welcomes from local hosts, a wide range of accommodation options – from luxury resorts to boutique hideaways – and a strong service culture help to create memorable stays that travellers are eager to share in reviews and ratings.
Officials have expressed hope that this recognition will not only boost international visitor numbers further, but also drive improvements in service quality, sustainability practices and community benefits. With tourism playing a central role in Bali’s economy, the award is expected to catalyse efforts to preserve both the environment and the island’s distinctive cultural identity.
As Bali celebrates this landmark achievement, the world’s eyes are once again on the Island of the Gods — a destination where natural beauty, culture and hospitality come together to offer unforgettable experiences.
