2026 is shaping up to be a year of celebration, creativity and connection. From Olympic cities and design capitals to emerging cultural hubs, the world is buzzing with new energy. At tunes&wings, we follow the beat of electronic music and the creative minds behind it — discovering destinations where culture, community and rhythm intertwine.
Here are 12 of the best places to visit in 2026, chosen not only for their big-moment headlines but for the inspiring local scenes, artists and atmospheres shaping them right now.

1. Milan & South Tyrol, Italy — Where Mountains Meet the Beat

Why go in 2026: The Winter Olympics shine a global spotlight on northern Italy. Beyond the slopes, Milan’s creative energy and South Tyrol’s slow-living Alpine scene make for a magnetic combination.
Tune in: Design events, boutique stays and a wave of new cultural venues blending food, architecture and music.
Explore more: South Tyrol Electronic Music Travel Guide inspired by 'Alpe Luisa' from Stimming.

2. Rabat, Morocco — The New Cultural Capital

Why go in 2026: Named UNESCO World Book Capital, Rabat blends centuries of heritage with modern creativity. Morocco’s electronic scene — from Moga Festival to Rabat’s rooftop sessions — continues to rise.
Don’t miss: Jefferson Club Rabat
“When there is a good event happening, Jefferson is the place to go dance all night.” - DAOX 
Explore more: Find more places like this - recommended by Amine K, DAOX, Kawtar Sadik, Kosh, Mr. ID and Yasmean in our Morocco T[rave]l Guide.

3. Istanbul, Turkey — The Crossroads of Cultures and Sound

Why go in 2026: Istanbul never stops reinventing itself. Expect underground parties by the Bosphorus, art spaces and new boutique hotels in historic districts.
Don’t miss: A local pioneer that has been shaping Istanbul’s electronic music scene since the late 1980s is Murat Uncuoglu. With his label ‘Isolate’, that he's running with his partner Alican, and his club ‘Kafes’, he’s still shaping the scene today. 
Explore more: Istanbul Electronic Music Travel Guide with scene insights from Murat Uncuoglu and Alican.

4. Vancouver, Canada — World Cup Fever & Coastal Freedom

Why go in 2026: As a host city for the FIFA World Cup, Vancouver mixes global excitement with Pacific calm. Discover creative spaces, Indigenous-led experiences and a strong sustainable lifestyle.
Insider tip: Summer outdoor shows meet sea-to-sky hikes.
Explore more:
Vancouver Electronic Music Travel Guide by 747
Interview with the Canadian duo Bob Moses: The places they visit when they are back home and their favourite festivals and clubs in Canada.

5. Aveiro, Portugal — The Hidden Gem Between Lisbon & Porto

Why go in 2026: Portugal’s smaller coastal city is emerging as a creative alternative to its famous neighbors. Known for its canals, tiles and growing music scene, it’s ideal for a slow, soulful escape.
Insider tip: Day trip from Lisbon — and pair it with our Lisbon T[rave]l Guide.
Explore more: Aveiro Travel Guide with recommendations from local DJ duo WHITENOISE. 

6. Riga, Latvia — Baltic Energy & Underground Sound

Why go in 2026: With its Art Nouveau architecture and rising club culture, Riga is Eastern Europe’s next creative hotspot. Local DJs and collectives are shaping a unique identity that’s still under the radar.
Explore more: Riga Electronic Music Travel Guide

7. Mexico City, Mexico — Art, Taste & the Techno Renaissance

Why go in 2026: One of the world’s most exciting cultural cities, now with a booming electronic scene from rooftops to warehouses. Between mezcal bars, galleries and street food, inspiration hits every corner.
Explore more: Mexico City Electronic Music Travel Guide by Lunakai

8. Mozambique — Nature, Rhythm & Rebirth

Why go in 2026: Africa’s east coast gem is reopening to travelers, with new eco-lodges, surf spots and music festivals mixing local rhythms with global beats. Expect untouched beaches and deep cultural roots.
Explore more: Mozambique Electronic Music Travel Guide by Breeze and The Sun & Neil Amarey

9. Marseille, France — The Mediterranean’s Creative Rebellion

Why go in 2026: France’s port city thrives on diversity and art. With new galleries, rooftop venues and a revived electronic scene, Marseille is redefining the meaning of coastal cool.
Explore more: Marseille Electronic Music Travel Guide by Anoraak

10. Bucharest, Romania — Minimal Techno’s Home Base

Why go in 2026: Romania’s capital keeps drawing global attention for its minimalist techno sound and all-night energy. Explore historic cafés by day and secret rooftops or Control Club by night.
Explore more: Bucharest Electronic Music Travel Guide

11. Sofia, Bulgaria — Mountains, Music & Modern Spirit

Why go in 2026: Set against the Vitosha mountain, Sofia is quietly turning into a cultural capital of the Balkans — creative markets, electronic collectives and forward-thinking food culture included. Not to forget the breathtaking views during Meadows In The Mountains Festival.
Explore more: Sofia Electronic Music Travel Guide

12. Tallinn, Estonia — Digital Cool & Northern Light

Why go in 2026: A digital pioneer with a strong underground club scene. Tallinn’s mix of historic charm and future-ready mindset make it an unmissable Baltic stop.
Explore more: Tallinn Electronic Music Travel Guide by Night Tapes

Whether you travel for festivals, coffee, design or simply to feel a city’s pulse — 2026 invites us to reconnect with the world through creativity and sound.
You are planning a trip to a special destination or want to read about the secret tips of local artists? We've got you covered! Browse through all our destinations here.

Cover picture Mozambique by Nic Berti on Unsplash