10 Destinations That Are Becoming Harder to Visit in 2026
Traveling around the world is getting trickier. Some places are becoming harder to visit due to new rules or just because they’re getting a bit too popular. Let’s check out 10 destinations where accessing the beauty and culture might need some extra planning by 2026.
1. Venice

Imagine floating along the canals of Venice, surrounded by stunning architecture. But hold up, before you can soak up the Italian charm, you’ll need to sort out some new entry fees and booking requirements. Venice is getting swamped by tourists, and these steps are all about keeping the crowds in check so the city doesn’t get overrun. You’ll have to plan your visit and budget a bit more carefully to enjoy this iconic city in the future.
2. Japan

Japan is a dream destination for many, with Kyoto being a highlight thanks to its beautiful temples and traditional streets. But, too much love from tourists is causing some issues. There’s now a push to limit the number of visitors to keep the place special and not too crowded. This means you might need to book your trip early, or visit during less popular times to get the full experience without the hassle of too many people around.
3. Bali

Bali is known for its breathtaking beaches and vibrant culture. However, with popularity comes responsibility! The island is tightening up on visa rules and how tourists should behave. This means that those visiting need to be mindful of the local customs and environment more than ever. Make sure you’re up to date on the do’s and don’ts before heading to this paradise.
4. Iceland

Iceland, with its otherworldly landscapes, has become a must-visit spot. But, as more folks want to experience its magic, costs have shot up. Traveling here is becoming a pricier affair, limiting who can afford to explore the land of fire and ice. Planning a budget wisely and perhaps saving a bit longer will be key to experiencing Iceland’s wonders.
5. Santorini

Santorini’s stunning sunsets and white buildings are a big draw. But to keep it beautiful, there’s now a cap on how many people can visit during the peak season. This means planning ahead is crucial if you want to grab those perfect Instagram moments without too many photo bombers!
6. Machu Picchu

The mystical ruins of Machu Picchu are on many bucket lists. However, to protect the site, only a limited number of daily permits are available. This means you need to book way in advance and maybe even visit during the off-season to secure your spot in this ancient wonder.
7. Bhutan

Bhutan’s stunning natural beauty and strong sense of culture are truly unique. But visiting isn’t cheap due to a high tourist tax aimed at limiting the number of visitors to sustain its environment and culture. This exclusive approach means you’ll need to budget accordingly for this once-in-a-lifetime trip.
8. Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s canals and vibrant art scene make it a top spot in Europe. But now, there are restrictions on tourism growth to keep the city livable for its residents. This might mean fewer available accommodations and perhaps higher prices, so planning your visit well in advance becomes even more important.
9. Dubai

Dubai’s luxury experiences are second to none, but the cost of enjoying these opulent offerings is going up. If you’re dreaming of high-end hotels and exclusive experiences, you’ll likely need to up your travel budget to keep up with Dubai’s rising luxury pricing.
10. New Zealand

New Zealand’s incredible landscapes are worth the trip, but getting there is getting tougher. Stricter entry and sustainability rules mean you’ll need to pay more attention to how your travel impacts the environment. Making sure you meet all the entry requirements and respect local eco-guidelines will help you enjoy this stunning country without a hitch.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.
