Looking forward to your travel plans this year? Many of us are, and those who haven’t already booked a trip away will soon be looking for that perfect mix of rest and relaxation.
Even if it’s just a staycation you’re looking to have, it’s something to plan towards and enjoy. So, where are the destinations that are worth considering this year in Europe and further for those looking at long-haul adventure? Below are a mix of European hotspots and beautiful long-haul highlights you’ll want to add to your potential travel list.
What Is Driving Travel Decisions in 2026?
People increasingly want to explore the world and enjoy new experiences. Many holidaymakers are placing greater value on flexibility, comfort, and meaningful experiences rather than packed itineraries that can feel rushed. Cost awareness remains important, but it is balanced with a willingness to spend on trips that feel well planned and enriching. According to ABTA’s annual Holiday Habits survey, 48% of respondents are wanting to visit places they’ve not been to before in 2026, showing an appetite for new experiences and doing something different.
Having easier access to reliable information, clearer pricing, and more choice around how and when to travel are also influencing many people’s travel decisions. As a result, people are thinking more carefully about where they go, how long they stay, and what they want to get from each journey. So, where are some of the best places to go if you’ve not been before?
Rising Stars in Europe
Europe continues to be a firm favourite for travellers, but in 2026 the focus is shifting beyond the usual hotspots. Destinations that offer a strong mix of culture, scenery, and affordability are gaining attention, particularly those that feel less crowded for much of the year.
Portugal remains popular, with regions outside Lisbon and the Algarve drawing interest for their relaxed pace, coastal landscapes, and local food scenes. The city of Guimarães is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was recently named the European Green Capital 2026, making this a perfect location away from tourist hotspots. Slovenia is also emerging as a standout, appealing to those who want alpine scenery, lakes, and charming cities without the higher costs associated with its neighbouring countries, with the Upper Carniola region a great place to start.
Northern Spain is another region set to grow in popularity, with areas such as Galicia and Asturias offering dramatic coastlines, rich culinary traditions, and a cooler climate that suits summer travel. These destinations also benefit from good transport links and shorter flight times from Ireland, making them ideal for longer stays or multi-stop trips. For travellers looking for variety without venturing too far from home, Europe in general always delivers value and great experiences.
Long Haul Destinations Set to Trend in 2026
As mentioned, long-haul travel is firmly back on the agenda for holidaymakers this year, with many looking beyond traditional city breaks towards destinations that offer contrast, culture, and a sense of scale.
Japan is one of those that continues to attract strong interest, particularly among travellers keen to explore regions beyond the main cities. Rural areas, historic towns, and nature-rich locations are appealing to those seeking a more immersive and balanced travel experience, with Ishikawa and the Noto peninsula well worth a visit.
In North America, Canada is set to remain popular, especially for travellers drawn to national parks, wildlife, and scenic rail or road journeys. Its reputation for space and slower-paced travel suits longer trips, with the Slocan Valley in British Columbia full of clear lakes and wilderness that is perfect for getting back to nature.
Southeast Asia also holds strong appeal, with central Vietnam offering excellent value, vibrant cities, and varied landscapes to explore. If heading even further south, New Zealand is expected to trend among those looking for adventure, natural beauty, and once-in-a-lifetime hiking holidays that make the long flight to get there well worth it.
Smarter Travel Planning for Bigger Adventures
With any holiday this year, whether it’s a trip of a lifetime or just a simple weekend getaway, it needs careful planning, especially if you are going somewhere different for the first time. Long-haul journeys, multi-destination itineraries, and extended stays all require more thought around timing, budgeting, and the practical details.
Simple steps such as checking entry requirements early, planning transport between regions when travelling to multiple countries, and understanding local healthcare systems can make a real difference to the overall experience. With this, you’ll want to prioritise peace of mind too by organising suitable travel insurance before finalising your plans, especially for trips further from home. Choosing the right level of cover from providers like Staysure gives you 24/7 emergency support, along with cover for many pre-existing medical conditions, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey rather than worrying about the unexpected.
With the right preparation in place, bigger adventures feel less daunting and far more rewarding from the moment you set off, so it’s best not to leave anything to chance. Compare different policies you find online too, so that you can ensure you’re getting the best value overall.
Sustainable and Slow Travel Destinations Gaining Attention
Along with people wanting new experiences, this is also with one eye on sustainable and slow travel, with many holidaymakers choosing destinations that encourage a more relaxed and thoughtful way of exploring. Rather than moving quickly between attractions, there is growing interest in staying longer in one place and connecting more deeply with local culture.
Rural regions of Italy are attracting visitors through agriturismo stays, where you get to stay at a local farm, as well as local food experiences, and walkable trails that suit unhurried travel. Scandinavia is also gaining attention, particularly for its emphasis on nature, wellbeing, and environmentally conscious tourism. For many, slow travel is not about doing less, but about experiencing more in a meaningful and responsible way.
City Breaks with a Twist for 2026
Those who want to enjoy shorter breaks will always find a good city break to enjoy, but rather than heading to the obvious choices, there are many that offer something different to the usual sightseeing routes. Also, instead of packing itineraries with must-see tourist hotspots, there is a shift towards exploring neighbourhoods, local markets, and seasonal events that offer a better sense of daily life, so if you do head to Paris or Berlin this year, try and venture away from the hotspots and into a more authentic experience.
Food-led travel is playing a bigger role, with travellers choosing cities known for regional cuisine, wine culture, or emerging dining scenes such as Bologna for authentic Italian or Copenhagen for the best in Nordic cuisine. Cities that combine culture with easy access to nature are also gaining appeal, such as Zurich and Split, allowing visitors to balance urban energy with quieter moments. Travelling outside peak weekends and festivals is becoming more common, all helping city breaks feel more relaxed, better value, and more personal.
Looking Ahead to How We Will Travel Next
So, where will you end up visiting this year? Will you go long haul or visit places closer to home in Ireland, the UK, and Europe that you’ve not seen before? Wherever you end up, 2026 is a great year to embrace slower travel and more genuine experiences, whilst also a good opportunity to explore the great outdoors away from the normal day-to-day. Here’s to a year full of adventure and new experiences.
