Guest Post by Dakota Murphey
With travel always something to look forward to, if you’re already thinking ahead to 2026, you might be keen to learn more about the travel trends that seem set to be all the rage next year and the destinations that everyone keeps talking about.
Are you an eco-conscious traveller or someone who thrives on adventure? Perhaps you dream of escaping to a luxurious Greek villa, relaxing by a pool in Provence or losing yourself in the history and culture of either Turkey or Croatia. It’s always fascinating to go somewhere new, and countries like Albania and Slovenia might pique your interest if you love beaches or biodiversity, respectively.
Next year’s holidays are about seeing beyond the usual landmarks, of doing more than buying souvenirs or heading to the nearest, overcrowded beach. Instead, you might prefer to create tailor-made authentic experiences abroad to suit your desire for sustainable travel, White Lotus-style retreats, and amazing villa holidays that combine adventure, relaxation, and luxury.
This article explores some on-trend options and hot spots that are likely to top the 2026 list of places to go and the method by which you get there.
Slow Travel
If you’re increasingly attracted by the concept of going it alone, solo travelling continues to grow in popularity with many of you eager to pursue personal adventures, encouraging tourists to really appreciate places they visit rather than merely ticking off hotspots.
Slow travel, as the term implies, is about savouring moments, connecting with local culture, and allowing yourself to truly unwind. Perhaps, in 2026, you might prefer to plan regular road trips that can cost less, fit in easily to busy work/life schedules, and still provide a cathartic change of scene that gives that much-needed well-being boost.
- Croatia: Beyond the bustling hotspots, Croatia’s lesser-known islands and inland regions offer a slower pace for travellers and locals alike. Istria and the secluded bays of the Dalmatian Coast are fantastic areas to explore if it’s your first trip here.
- Italy: From ancient farmhouses with breathtaking views to medieval towers offering a glimpse into the past, Italy is a beautiful mix of historic charm, stunning lakes and rustic charm with food you’ll adore taking your time savouring.
- France: From the rolling vineyards of the Loire Valley to the sun-drenched fields of Provence, France remains a quintessential slow travel destination with rustic and luxurious chateaux perfect for exploring markets, wineries, restaurants and more.
Sustainable Stays
Looking ahead, more of you are opting to be a responsible traveller and are increasingly seeking holidays and options to get places that align with your environmental values and ethical beliefs. With headlines across the world explaining the negative impact of frequent air travel, overcrowding and irresponsible behaviour, more of you are opting for responsible options.
For some, this means taking a greener route by train for a staycation in the UK or a trip to France, searching for sustainable places to stay in villas powered by renewable energy, or even combining your holiday with a conservation project while you’re away.
Europe is at the forefront of sustainable travel, with many destinations actively promoting eco-friendly holidays. As well as promoting eco-friendly activities, eco-certified tour operators promote low-impact activities, including hiking, cycling, and exploring natural parks with guided and responsible tourist practices.
- Slovenia: As one of the greenest countries, Slovenia and its Julian Alps region is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with the country committed to slow travel and safeguarding its biodiversity while welcoming in tourists.
Out-of-the-Ordinary Escapes
If you’re increasingly seeking experiences that go beyond the traditional, you might want to organise a unique holiday in Europe that is action-packed. From walking in the Alps or on challenging coastal trails in the UK to paragliding in Turkey, there are plenty of adrenaline-pumping pursuits, next-level tours, and mind-blowing experiences to consider.
For those seeking active exploration with a twist, e-bike hire in European cities like Amsterdam, Berlin, Lisbon, and Florence helps you navigate streets and sightsee over far longer distances than walking.
Alternatively, for adventurers aiming for more challenging landscapes, all-terrain e-bikes are increasingly popular because of their versatility. As E-Bikes Direct highlights, “Their ability to tackle a variety of surfaces, from rugged mountain trails to loose gravel paths, makes them incredibly versatile.”
So, if you’re looking for somewhere extraordinary to stay or eager to try something different, there are plenty of options from touring castles in Scotland, hiking higher up a mountain than you’ve ever dared, or going on your first jet boat experience.
- London: Whether you’re in the capital for a day or a romantic weekend, there are loads of museums, hidden gems, great pubs and a thriving nightlife to enjoy.
- Madrid: Experience the passion of Spain from world-class art museums to lively markets, flamenco shows and mad bull-fighting displays.
- Albania: This emerging destination is rapidly gaining popularity for its stunning coastline, rugged mountains, and rich history.
Multigenerational Travel
Another trend gaining traction is “multigenerational” travel where various members of a family plan to go away with each other. More than just sharing places to stay, it’s about signing up for different activities together, sightseeing, and creating shared memories. A large holiday home that can fit everyone in comfortably might be even more entertaining for different ages with a swimming pool, games area, or cinema room.
- Italy (Tuscany & Sicily): Italy’s timeless charm and diverse landscapes make it ideal for families of all ages. Tuscany is world-famous for its serene countryside, perfect for family cooking sessions and exploring medieval towns, while Sicily offers a fabulous blend of ancient history, stunning coastlines, and delicious food.
- Portugal: With its welcoming culture, beautiful beaches, and diverse activities, Portugal is a fantastic choice for multigenerational groups. From villas with private pools in the Algarve to historic properties near Lisbon, there’s something for everyone.
Going Solo
Solo travel continues to be popular with a growing number of individuals seeking independent adventures and moments of self-discovery. This isn’t about being lonely; it’s about the freedom to explore at your own pace, indulge personal interests, and challenge yourself. It is about going away on a tailor-made holiday for you, allowing you to focus on what you love.
If you want to go out and splurge on a luxury villa or somewhere with a pool, you can go to places and plan your itinerary to suit your passions. A private holiday home gives you that unparalleled sense of privacy, comfort and security if you are travelling alone. Plus, if you love outdoor swimming, you might choose a destination near a beach, river, or overlooking a lake for a trip that offers unlimited swims for you to indulge your love of water safely.
- Edinburgh and London: These vibrant UK cities offer an incredible array of cultural experiences, world-class dining, and fantastic shopping.
- Porto: With its charming riverside, historic architecture, and world-renowned wine, Porto is popular for solo adventurers seeking a blend of culture and relaxation.
If you’re looking to plan a unique holiday somewhere you’ve never ventured to before, bookings are open for 2026 whether you’re looking forward to a solo adventure, getting family together for a big celebration, or are after something extra special. At Oliver’s Travels, we will help you choose a handpicked villa to make your holiday on-trend, exciting, and extraordinary.
