7 Best Places to Buy a Vacation Home in 2026

Buying a vacation home has never been just about owning a place to escape; it’s about choosing a destination that fits your lifestyle, financial goals, and long-term plans. As travel patterns evolve and international property markets adjust to new demand, buyers in 2026 are approaching overseas ownership with greater intention and awareness. Understanding where opportunity meets enjoyment is now a key part of the decision-making process.

This vacation home buying guide in 2026 explores the best places to buy a vacation home, highlighting destinations that consistently stand out for lifestyle appeal, rental potential, and long-term value. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal retreat, an island escape, or a vibrant resort destination, this guide is designed to help you navigate the options with confidence and clarity.

Best places to buy a vacation home in 2026

In 2026, vacation home buyers are prioritizing destinations that balance lifestyle appeal with long-term value. Factors such as tourism demand, affordability, foreign buyer accessibility, and currency dynamics are shaping where international buyers are choosing to invest. The following destinations consistently stand out across global property and travel outlooks for the year ahead.

1. Algarve, Portugal

Sun-soaked beaches, dramatic cliffs, and postcard-perfect towns have long made the Algarve a favourite with international buyers. In 2026, it continues to top global property lists due to its relaxed lifestyle, reliable infrastructure, and strong year-round appeal for both owners and visitors.

The region attracts buyers from across Europe, North America, Canada, and beyond, drawn by Portugal’s welcoming property framework and high quality of life. For many, the Algarve is not just a holiday escape but a smart way to enjoy a second vacation home that blends personal use with income potential.

Rental demand remains resilient, supported by steady tourism, international flights, and a long peak season that extends well beyond summer. From coastal apartments to luxury villas, properties here are often highlighted among the 7 best places to invest in a vacation home, offering a rare mix of enjoyment, flexibility, and long-term market stability.

2. Costa del Sol, Southern Spain

With its golden beaches, whitewashed towns, and laid-back Mediterranean rhythm, the Costa del Sol continues to be Spain’s most talked-about destination for second-home buyers. From Marbella to Málaga, the region blends lifestyle appeal with well-established property infrastructure that international buyers value.

Excellent air connectivity, modern amenities, and a wide range of property options make ownership more accessible than in many other European coastal markets. Compared with neighbouring hotspots, the Costa del Sol still offers attractive entry points, which is why it consistently appears among the top vacation home markets in Europe.

Tourism drives strong short-term rental demand throughout the year, not just in peak summer months. This steady flow of visitors supports income potential while giving owners the flexibility to enjoy the property themselves, a balance many buyers seek when working with second home mortgage lenders to finance an overseas purchase.

3. Florida, US

Florida remains one of the most recognised vacation home destinations in the world, and its appeal shows no signs of fading in 2026. From Miami’s vibrant waterfront to quieter Gulf Coast communities, the state offers diverse lifestyle options wrapped in sunshine and resort-style living.

Strong tourism fundamentals, deep rental markets, and high transaction liquidity continue to attract international buyers. Florida’s property market is frequently highlighted among the top vacation home markets, especially for buyers seeking consistent demand and the ability to exit or refinance with relative ease.

For foreign buyers, considerations such as financing structures, tax exposure, and working with experienced second home mortgage lenders are increasingly important. Even so, Florida’s transparency, scale, and global recognition keep it firmly on the radar for anyone looking to combine personal enjoyment with long-term investment potential.

4. Tuscany, Central Italy

Rolling hills, vineyards, and timeless stone villas give Tuscany a romance few destinations can match. For buyers drawn to character and authenticity, the region consistently ranks among the best vacation homes to buy, offering an experience that feels deeply rooted in culture and history.

Ownership here is often lifestyle-led. Many buyers prioritise slow living, seasonal stays, and long summer escapes over maximising short-term rental income. That said, well-located countryside homes and restored farmhouses can still attract steady demand from travellers seeking immersive stays.

International buyers should factor in local ownership rules, renovation timelines, and financing options such as a vacation home mortgage when planning a purchase. For those asking where to buy a vacation home in 2026, Tuscany remains a standout for buyers who value long-term enjoyment as much as investment potential.

5. Crete, Greece

Crete is appearing more frequently on global property shortlists as international buyers look beyond Greece’s most saturated island markets. As the country’s largest island, Crete offers a rare combination of scale, year-round livability, and strong tourism fundamentals, making it one of the most compelling regional choices for vacation home buyers.

Tourism on the island continues to grow steadily, supported by international airports in Heraklion and Chania, extended travel seasons, and rising demand for longer stays rather than short peak-season visits. From historic harbour towns and beachside villages to emerging coastal developments, Crete provides a broad mix of property styles that appeal to both lifestyle buyers and investors focused on rental income.

Property prices in Crete remain competitive compared with more heavily branded Greek islands, while offering greater inventory and flexibility. Combined with accessible ownership structures and financing options such as a vacation home mortgage, the region stands out as a practical yet high-potential choice. For buyers assessing where to buy a vacation home in 2026, Crete delivers a strong balance of affordability, rental visibility, and long-term appeal.

6. Platinum Coast, Barbados

Barbados’s Platinum Coast blends Caribbean beauty with a level of structure and permanence that continues to attract international buyers seeking a refined regional market rather than a broad island-wide play. Stretching along the island’s west coast, this area is known for calm turquoise waters, polished beachfront communities, and some of the most established infrastructure in the Caribbean.

Luxury villas and low-density beachfront residences along the Platinum Coast remain in consistently high demand, supported by year-round tourism and a tightly constrained supply of prime coastal property. This scarcity, combined with strong rental interest from repeat visitors, creates a market where exclusivity and income potential are closely aligned.

For many buyers, the Platinum Coast represents the ideal second vacation home region; a place designed for long-term enjoyment rather than short-term speculation. With its mature real estate market, international visibility, and enduring appeal, the west coast continues to stand out for those evaluating where to buy a vacation home in 2026.

7. Costa del Este, Panama

Costa del Este stands out as one of Panama’s most attractive regions for buyers seeking flexibility, value, and modern living within a single, well-planned community. Located just minutes from downtown Panama City, the district has become a focal point for international buyers drawn to its contemporary design, coastal setting, and strong urban infrastructure.

The area is defined by high-rise waterfront condos, walkable neighbourhoods, and proximity to business hubs, international schools, and healthcare facilities. This combination supports a wide range of ownership strategies, from personal-use vacation residences to long-term rentals and executive leasing, allowing buyers to align lifestyle goals with rental demand.

Clear property rights, accessibility for foreign buyers, and Panama’s globally connected economy continue to reinforce Costa del Este’s appeal as a regional market. For those evaluating where to invest in vacation property beyond traditional North American and European destinations, this part of Panama City offers a compelling balance of stability, livability, and long-term potential.

Comparing the top vacation home destinations in 2026

Choosing the right vacation home destination in 2026 is about more than scenery. Canadian buyers are weighing lifestyle enjoyment against rental income, upfront costs, and how each market is likely to perform over time. Below is a practical way to compare what matters most, including real estate factors, when narrowing down the 7 best places to invest in a vacation home.

Lifestyle appeal and day-to-day enjoyment

Some destinations shine as lifestyle purchases first. Regions like Tuscany, the Algarve, and Barbados are ideal for buyers who value atmosphere, culture, and repeat personal use. These markets reward owners with memorable stays and long-term emotional value, even if rental income is secondary.

Other locations, such as Florida or Panama, offer a more flexible lifestyle. Owners can enjoy the property regularly while still tapping into steady rental demand when they are away.

Rental income potential and seasonality

Rental-focused buyers tend to gravitate toward destinations with year-round tourism. Florida, Costa del Sol, and Greece benefit from strong visitor flows across multiple seasons, helping smooth income volatility.

Lifestyle-led destinations may have shorter peak periods, but they often attract higher-value guests. Understanding seasonality is a key part of international vacation home property tips, especially when projecting cash flow.

Entry price ranges across regions

Entry prices vary widely between markets. Panama and parts of Spain continue to attract buyers looking for relatively accessible pricing, while Tuscany and Barbados generally require higher upfront investment.

Buyers should factor in not just the purchase price but also taxes, legal fees, and potential renovation costs. Financing options can differ significantly, which is why many buyers consult second home mortgage lenders early in the process.

Ongoing ownership and maintenance costs

Running costs can quietly shape long-term returns. Resort-style properties may carry higher maintenance fees, while countryside homes can involve upkeep tied to age and restoration.

Markets with established property management services often appeal to overseas buyers, reducing the friction of owning from abroad and supporting both personal use and rentals.

Tourism demand and long-term outlook

Destinations with diversified tourism bases tend to offer greater resilience. Markets that attract leisure travellers, long-stay visitors, and remote workers are better positioned to adapt as travel trends evolve.

Long-term outlook also depends on infrastructure, flight connectivity, and government policy toward foreign buyers. Evaluating these factors helps ensure a vacation home remains enjoyable and relevant well beyond 2026.

Matching the destination to your goals

The best choice ultimately depends on intent. Some buyers prioritise memories and lifestyle, others focus on income and flexibility. The strongest outcomes often come from destinations that strike a balance between both.

Understanding your goals, budget, and risk tolerance will make comparing markets far more effective; and help turn a vacation home into a lasting asset rather than a short-term decision.

Why currency strategy matters when buying property abroad?

Buying a vacation home overseas is as much a financial decision as it is a lifestyle one. In 2026, currency volatility remains a key factor shaping the real cost of international property purchases. A smart FX approach, supported by specialists like MTFX, can make a meaningful difference to how much you ultimately pay and how confidently you move through the process. Any practical vacation home buying guide in 2026 should treat currency planning as essential, not optional.

How exchange rate movements impact your purchase price

Property prices abroad are set in local currency, but your budget is often in Canadian dollars or another home currency. Even a modest swing in exchange rates can translate into significant gains or losses when transferring large amounts.

Working with a provider like MTFX allows buyers to monitor live exchange rates, understand market conditions, and avoid unfavourable timing. This is one of the most overlooked yet valuable international vacation home property tips, especially for first-time overseas buyers.

Check the rates below of your desired currency pair and learn how much it will cost you to exchange currency to travel to your dream destination. 

Currency risk across deposits and staged payments

Most overseas purchases involve multiple payments, including deposits, progress payments, and final completion costs. Each stage exposes buyers to currency risk if funds are converted at different rates.

Planning these transfers in advance with MTFX helps bring consistency and predictability, allowing buyers to align currency strategy with their legal and construction timelines rather than reacting at the last minute.

Timing large international transfers with confidence

Markets can move quickly, particularly around major economic or political events. Leaving a large transfer until the day funds are required can turn timing into a gamble.

MTFX supports buyers with rate monitoring tools and specialist guidance, helping them act when market conditions are favourable. This approach is increasingly seen as one of the most practical vacation home financing tips for buyers moving substantial sums abroad.

Managing FX exposure for longer purchase timelines

Off-plan developments, renovations, or new builds often stretch payment schedules over many months or even years. Over that period, unmanaged currency exposure can quietly erode budgets.

MTFX helps buyers structure their transfers strategically, bringing clarity to long-term costs and reducing uncertainty throughout extended purchase timelines.

Budgeting accurately across borders

Currency strategy directly affects affordability. Two identical properties in different countries can carry very different real costs once exchange rates, fees, and timing are factored in.

By working with MTFX, buyers gain clearer visibility into total costs upfront, making it easier to compare destinations, plan financing, and avoid unpleasant surprises during the buying process.

Currency planning as part of the overall buying experience

A vacation home should represent freedom and enjoyment, not stress around fluctuating costs. Treating FX strategy as part of the purchase plan allows buyers to focus on location, lifestyle, and long-term value.

For anyone buying overseas in 2026, partnering with a specialist like MTFX turns currency management from a risk into a strategic advantage, supporting smoother transactions and more confident international property ownership.

Buy your vacation home seamlessly with bank-beating exchange rates

Buying property abroad is an exciting step, whether you’re investing in one of the best places to buy a vacation home in 2026 or securing a second vacation home for long-term enjoyment. While choosing the right destination matters, how you move your money can have just as much impact on the overall cost of your purchase.

MTFX helps make the financial side of buying overseas property simpler, clearer, and more cost-effective. With access to competitive exchange rates and specialist support, buyers can move funds internationally with confidence.

How MTFX supports your vacation home purchase

• Bank-beating exchange rates: Reduce FX costs when transferring large amounts for deposits, milestones, and final completion.
• Transparent pricing: Know your rate and costs upfront, with no hidden fees eating into your property budget.
• Support for large international transfers: Move funds securely and efficiently to your destination country when timing matters most.
• Dedicated guidance: Get help aligning currency transfers with your purchase timeline, from offer to closing.

Instead of leaving exchange rates to chance, MTFX gives buyers greater control over one of the most overlooked parts of overseas property ownership. That means fewer surprises, better budgeting, and more confidence as you turn a dream destination into a place you can truly call your own.

From dream destination to smart ownership

Buying a vacation home in 2026 is about choosing a location that delivers both lifestyle value and long-term confidence. As buyers explore the best places to buy a vacation home in 2026, success often comes down to careful planning; understanding ownership rules, tourism demand, and how currency movements can affect the true cost of the purchase.

When it’s time to move funds internationally, having the right FX partner can make a meaningful difference. MTFX helps buyers secure bank-beating exchange rates, transparent pricing, and dedicated support for overseas property transfers.

Create an account with MTFX today and start saving your money on currency exchange when buying your vacation home abroad.

FAQs

1. What are the best places to buy a vacation home in 2026?

The best places to buy a vacation home in 2026 are destinations that combine lifestyle appeal with long-term demand, and Canada stands out as an emerging market with unique opportunities. Markets such as Southern Europe, select US states, the Caribbean, and parts of Central America continue to stand out due to strong tourism, established infrastructure, and foreign buyer accessibility. These regions consistently appear among the top vacation home destinations for both personal use and investment.

2. Which destinations offer the most affordable vacation homes in 2026?

Buyers looking for value often focus on emerging or affordability-led markets rather than traditional luxury hubs. Parts of Spain, Greece, Panama, and select inland or secondary coastal areas offer attractive pricing while still delivering lifestyle benefits. These locations are frequently highlighted when buyers research where to buy a vacation home in 2026 without overextending their budget.

3. How do I finance a vacation home purchase?

Financing options depend on the country, your residency status, and how the property will be used. Some buyers use domestic financing, while others work with local banks or second home mortgage lenders that specialise in international purchases. Understanding eligibility, deposit requirements, and interest structures is essential when considering a vacation home mortgage abroad.

4. What are the top vacation home investment markets worldwide?

The top vacation home markets globally tend to be regions with consistent tourism, strong rental demand, and long-term visibility. Florida, Southern Spain, Portugal, Greece, and select Caribbean islands are frequently cited as some of the best vacation homes to buy, particularly for buyers balancing rental income with personal use.

5. How do I choose the right location for a vacation home?

Choosing the right location starts with defining your goal. Some buyers prioritise personal enjoyment and lifestyle, while others focus on rental income, capital preservation, or exploring new investment opportunities. Evaluating access, seasonality, ownership rules, and future demand is a key part of deciding where to invest in vacation property.

6. Is buying a vacation home a good investment in 2026?

For many buyers, purchasing a vacation home in 2026 can be a solid long-term decision when expectations are realistic. A well-chosen property can offer lifestyle benefits, rental income, and diversification. However, returns vary widely by market, which is why understanding local dynamics and following proven international vacation home property tips matters.

7. What should I consider before buying a vacation home abroad?

Before buying overseas, buyers should review ownership rules, tax obligations, currency exposure, and ongoing costs such as maintenance and management. Planning for multiple payments over time is especially important when buying a second vacation home in a foreign currency.

8. How do vacation home markets differ across countries?

Vacation home markets differ significantly in terms of regulation, financing access, rental rules, and buyer protections. Some countries encourage foreign ownership, while others impose restrictions. Comparing these differences is essential when narrowing down top vacation home destinations and avoiding surprises after purchase.

9. What are the benefits of owning a vacation home compared with renting?

Owning a vacation home offers consistency, personalisation, and long-term flexibility that renting cannot. While renting works well for occasional travel, ownership allows repeat use, potential rental income, and the option to hold a tangible asset over time. For many buyers, this makes owning a second property more appealing than relying on short-term rentals year after year.