Discovering Europe’s Must-Visit Destinations for 2026

As January’s gloom settles in and the holiday cheer fades away, many of us find ourselves longing for something exciting on the horizon. With abandoned New Year’s resolutions and empty chocolate boxes behind us, planning a European getaway might be just the remedy we need. But with countless travel publications offering their top picks for 2026, how do you decide where to go? After analyzing recommendations from ten major travel authorities, certain destinations emerged as clear favorites. One Finnish city, in particular, appeared on six different lists, signaling its must-visit status for the year ahead. Let’s explore these consensus picks that deserve a spot on your 2026 travel itinerary.

Oulu, Finland stands as the undisputed European destination of 2026, recommended by an impressive six major publications including Afar, BBC, CNN, Condé Nast Traveller, National Geographic, and Travel + Leisure. Located on Norway’s northwestern coast along the Bay of Bothnia, nearly 650 kilometers north of Helsinki, this Finnish gem has already established itself as a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing and authentic sauna experiences. What makes 2026 special is Oulu’s designation as the European Capital of Culture, featuring a year-long celebration of events. Visitors can experience the debut of Ovllá, an opera highlighting the oppression of Europe’s only Indigenous peoples, the Sámi, explore the Climate Clock public art trail, and sample regional delicacies at the Arctic Food Lab. Lonely Planet also endorsed Finland as a whole, with Oulu as a standout destination within the country. This cultural renaissance combined with Finland’s natural beauty makes Oulu a compelling choice for travelers seeking both enlightenment and adventure in 2026.

The phenomenon of “set-jetting”—visiting locations featured in popular films or TV shows—continues to influence travel trends, with Christopher Nolan’s upcoming adaptation of Homer’s “The Odyssey” driving interest in Greece and Sicily. Condé Nast Traveller highlights the Peloponnese peninsula, where travelers can explore Nestor’s Cave, the setting of Odysseus’ confrontation with the Cyclops, and visit Pylos, where Telemachus meets King Nestor. Time Out, meanwhile, recommends Sicily’s Favignana, an island where Odysseus reportedly stopped before his Cyclops encounter. Both publications suggest visiting these locations before the star-studded film (featuring Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway, Tom Holland, and Robert Pattinson) releases and inevitably triggers a tourism surge. The ancient world’s most famous journey is about to inspire a new generation of travelers, offering a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of mythological heroes while experiencing Mediterranean splendor.

The celestial event of 2026—a total solar eclipse in August—has captured travel writers’ imaginations, with CNN, National Geographic, Travel + Leisure, and The New York Times all recommending destinations along its path. The New York Times suggests Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula as the premier viewing spot, where a four-day festival will feature live music and talks from astronauts and experts. The eclipse will create approximately two minutes of darkness in this area, providing one of the longest viewing opportunities. Spain offers several excellent alternatives for eclipse chasers: CNN recommends Aragon for its 2,000-year history and relative lack of tourists; National Geographic favors the Basque Country with artistic Bilbao and park-filled Vitoria-Gasteiz; while Travel + Leisure champions Asturias, known as “Green Spain” for its lush landscapes. This extraordinary astronomical event provides a perfect excuse to explore some of Europe’s most captivating regions while witnessing one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena.

Eco-conscious travelers should consider Portugal’s Guimarães, the 2026 European Green Capital as recommended by both BBC and National Geographic. Taking over from Lithuania’s Vilnius, Guimarães is embracing sustainability with expanded green spaces and an extensive network of bike lanes that make exploring the city both environmentally friendly and enjoyable. Beyond its green initiatives, this historic city holds profound cultural significance as the birthplace of Portugal, with its town center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The combination of forward-thinking environmental policies and rich historical heritage creates a uniquely appealing destination where travelers can experience centuries of Portuguese culture while supporting sustainable tourism practices. Guimarães represents the perfect balance for those who wish to minimize their environmental footprint without sacrificing cultural immersion.

Literary enthusiasts have compelling reasons to visit the UK in 2026, with significant anniversaries inspiring travel recommendations from CNN and The New York Times. CNN highlights Devon as a must-visit destination marking 50 years since Agatha Christie’s death, with Torquay hosting an annual Agatha Christie Festival in September. Visitors can explore her holiday home at Greenway House or visit her writing retreat at Burgh Island throughout the year, immersing themselves in the settings that inspired the queen of mystery. The New York Times focuses instead on A. A. Milne, celebrating the centenary of Winnie-the-Pooh’s publication by recommending visits to Ashdown Forest (the real-life Hundred Acre Wood) and Cotchford Farm Inn, where Milne lived with his family. These literary pilgrimages offer travelers the chance to connect with beloved authors and their iconic creations while experiencing the quintessentially British landscapes that shaped these timeless works.

Winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike should consider the Italian Dolomites in 2026, as recommended by both National Geographic and Travel + Leisure. The region will host the Olympic Winter Games and Paralympic Winter Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo in February and March, bringing international attention to these stunning mountains. Visitors inspired by Olympic athletes can test their own skills in Cortina d’Ampezzo, part of the Dolomiti Superski network that connects twelve ski areas with a single pass. For those who prefer warmer weather, summer offers perfect conditions for hut-to-hut hiking treks through breathtaking alpine landscapes. The post-Olympic infrastructure improvements combined with the timeless beauty of these UNESCO-protected mountains create an ideal destination for adventure seekers throughout 2026. Whether carving through fresh powder or traversing panoramic trails, the Dolomites promise unforgettable experiences against one of Europe’s most dramatic natural backdrops.