"New York Times" recommends a trip to Bayreuth - Bayreuth’s Wagner Festival Earns a Spot on The New York Times’ 2026 Must-Visit List
The New York Times has once again released its annual list of 52 must-visit destinations for the coming year. For nearly two decades, the publication has highlighted one standout location for each week, drawing on insights from its global network of reporters. This year, the German city of Bayreuth has earned a coveted spot on the 2026 list—thanks to a major cultural milestone.
Bayreuth, a city of around 75,000 residents, was chosen for its world-renowned festival dedicated to the operas of Richard Wagner. The Bayreuth Festival, an event steeped in tradition, will mark its 150th anniversary in 2026. The New York Times editorial team singled it out as an unmissable experience, calling the festival 'unparalleled' in its celebration of Wagner’s works.
The festival’s tickets are famously difficult to secure, often described as 'among the most coveted in the world for opera lovers'. Each year, devotees from across the globe compete for the chance to attend performances in the festival’s iconic theatre. The anniversary edition promises to be even more exceptional, drawing attention from both seasoned opera fans and first-time visitors. The New York Times bases its selections on recommendations from correspondents and travel experts stationed worldwide. Their inclusion of Bayreuth underscores the festival’s enduring prestige and its significance in the 2026 cultural calendar.
Bayreuth’s place on the list highlights the festival’s global reputation and the city’s appeal as a cultural destination. With the 150th-anniversary celebrations set to attract opera enthusiasts from far and wide, the event is expected to bring renewed focus to the city’s artistic heritage. The New York Times recommendation positions Bayreuth as a top travel priority for 2026.
