Europe’s Top Travel Destinations for 2026
According to Expedia’s annual travel report, Sardinia and Savoie are emerging as Europe’s top destinations for travelers in 2026. These locations have captured the attention of global tourists seeking authentic experiences beyond the traditional European hotspots.
Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, offers visitors pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters that rival those of the Caribbean, but without the crowds that plague more popular Mediterranean destinations. The island’s unique culture—distinct from mainland Italy—features ancient stone structures called nuraghi, dating back to the Bronze Age, alongside picturesque fishing villages where time seems to stand still. Travelers are increasingly drawn to Sardinia’s farm-to-table culinary scene, where local shepherds still produce cheese using centuries-old techniques and coastal restaurants serve freshly caught seafood prepared according to traditions passed down through generations.
Meanwhile, Savoie in the French Alps is shedding its reputation as merely a winter sports destination and revealing its year-round appeal. While its world-class ski resorts continue to attract winter enthusiasts, summer visitors are discovering breathtaking hiking trails that wind through alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers beneath towering mountain peaks. The region’s thermal spas, originally built by the Romans, offer natural relaxation after outdoor adventures, and its distinctive Savoyard cuisine—featuring raclette, fondue, and hearty mountain dishes—provides comfort in all seasons. Expedia’s analysts note that Savoie’s growing popularity stems partly from travelers seeking less crowded alternatives to the French Riviera.
What makes these destinations particularly appealing for 2026 is their combination of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and improved accessibility. Both regions have invested in sustainable tourism infrastructure while carefully preserving their unique identities. Sardinia has expanded its ferry services and flight connections while limiting over-development along its coastlines. Similarly, Savoie has enhanced its rail connections to major European cities while maintaining the charming character of its mountain villages. Travelers increasingly value these balanced approaches that allow for comfortable visits without sacrificing the distinctive character that makes each place special.
The travel trends reflected in Expedia’s report suggest a broader shift in tourist preferences following years of post-pandemic recovery. Travelers are increasingly seeking meaningful connections with places that offer something beyond Instagram-worthy photo opportunities. Both Sardinia and Savoie provide opportunities for visitors to engage with local communities, learn traditional crafts, and participate in seasonal festivals that have retained their authenticity. In Sardinia, travelers can join in grape harvests or learn traditional weaving, while Savoie offers cheese-making workshops and opportunities to forage for alpine herbs with local experts. These immersive experiences satisfy a growing desire among travelers for genuine cultural exchange rather than superficial tourism.
As 2026 approaches, Expedia predicts that these destinations will continue to rise in popularity while still offering alternatives to overtourism. Both regions benefit from having multiple centers of interest spread across relatively large geographic areas, allowing visitors to disperse rather than concentrate in single locations. This pattern not only provides a more pleasant experience for travelers but also distributes tourism’s economic benefits more widely throughout local communities. For travelers planning their 2026 European adventures, Sardinia and Savoie represent the perfect balance of discovery and delight—places where natural splendor and cultural richness remain accessible without the crowds that can diminish the travel experience elsewhere on the continent.
