What Is The Top Aussie Spot for 2026?

A new survey claims to have identified Australia’s top domestic travel destination for 2026.

According to the survey of 1,002 Australians by iSelect, some 11.4% of people named the Gold Coast as their favourite local getaway.

Melbourne’s “Every Bit Different” campaign also made waves, helping the city out-rank Sydney with 11.1% of the vote thanks to its rich cultural offerings.

Queensland locations dominated the list, with Brisbane coming in fourth, followed by the Sunshine Coast in fifth and Cairns seventh on the list.

Top domestic travel destinations:

1. Gold Coast
2. Melbourne
3. Sydney
4. Brisbane
5. Sunshine Coast
6. Hobart
7. Cairns
8. Adelaide
9. Byron Bay
10. Tasmania

“We’re all so busy with work and life commitments, when it comes to holiday planning – most of us want it to be stress-free,” said Sophie Ryan, iSelect spokesperson.

“With a destination like the Gold Coast, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to relaxing and there’s plenty to do if you feel like being active.

“It’s been another tough year for families battling the cost-of-living crisis. For those lucky enough to afford a vacation, the Gold Coast offers a huge range of options for families with budgets of all sizes.”

www.iselect.com.au