These Are The Top Trending Holiday Destinations Of Summer 2026

If your group chat is already full of 'Where are we going this summer then?' messages, you're definitely not alone.

Whether you're looking for a basic beach break (we won't judge), planning a post-exam escape or simply daydreaming yourself to cool crystal waters, summer 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest travel seasons yet.

The classics aren't going anywhere, but this year there's a noticeable shift in where people are booking. Think hidden Mediterranean gems, destinations where your money stretches further and even a surprising trend that's all about escapingthe heat rather than chasing it.

Here are the hottest holiday destinations everyone seems to be talking about this summer.

🇮🇹 Puglia, Italy

Move over Amalfi Coast – Puglia is having its moment in the sun - literally.

Sitting in Italy's sun-soaked heel, Puglia offers everything you'd expect from an Italian holiday: dreamy beaches, incredible food, charming whitewashed towns and enough gelato to keep you smiling all week.

Places like Ostuni, Monopoli and Polignano a Mare have exploded on TikTok, and unlike some of Italy's more famous hotspots, they still feel a little more relaxed (and a little kinder on your bank balance).

Expect lazy beach days, fresh seafood, pasta that might genuinely change your life and sunsets you'll definitely post on Instagram.

If your summer holiday mood board includes "European coastal chic", Puglia should be right at the top.

🇦🇱 Albania

If you've spotted crystal-clear water and white sand beaches all over your social feeds recently, there's a good chance you've been looking at Albania.

Often called Europe's best-kept holiday secret, the Albanian Riviera has gone from hidden gem to one of the fastest-growing holiday destinations around. Visitor numbers have surged in recent years, with places like Ksamil and Dhërmi becoming favourites for travellers looking for Mediterranean vibes without Mediterranean prices.

Think turquoise water, fresh seafood, mountain views and accommodation that's often significantly cheaper than neighbouring Greece or Croatia.

Basically? More holiday for your money.

🇻🇳 Vietnam

Fancy going a little further afield?

Vietnam continues to grow in popularity thanks to its unbeatable combination of stunning scenery, incredible street food and luxury experiences that don't require a lottery win.

Whether you're wandering through lantern-lit streets in Hội An, relaxing on the beaches of Đà Nẵng or cruising through Ha Long Bay, Vietnam offers plenty of bucket-list moments.

It's also one of the best-value long-haul destinations around, making it especially appealing for travellers wanting a big adventure without an equally massive price tag.

🇳🇴 Norway (and the rise of the 'Coolcation')

Believe it or not, one of this year's biggest travel trends isn't about finding the hottest destination.

It's about finding the coolest.

The 'coolcation' trend continues to boom in 2026, with travellers swapping scorching Mediterranean temperatures for Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland. Searches for cooler summer escapes have risen dramatically as people look to avoid extreme heat while still enjoying unforgettable scenery.

Picture dramatic fjords, mountain hikes, crystal-clear lakes and daylight that seems to last forever.

Not every summer holiday has to involve melting by the pool.

🇹🇷 Turkey

Turkey continues to be one of the UK's favourite package holiday destinations - and it's easy to see why.

Whether it's Antalya, Marmaris or Bodrum, you'll find gorgeous beaches, luxurious all-inclusive resorts and plenty of sunshine without completely emptying your bank account.

For students and young travellers, Turkey hits the sweet spot between affordability and luxury. One minute you're relaxing beside an infinity pool, the next you're exploring colourful markets or hopping aboard a boat trip around the coastline.

No wonder it remains one of the most booked summer destinations year after year.

So... what's everyone looking for in 2026?

It's not just where people are travelling that's changing, it's how they're travelling too.

This summer, holidaymakers are increasingly choosing destinations that offer better value, fewer crowds and more authentic experiences. Southern Europe remains hugely popular, but many travellers are venturing beyond the obvious hotspots in search of somewhere a little different. At the same time, "coolcations" are becoming increasingly popular as rising temperatures encourage people to explore Scandinavia and other cooler destinations.

Whether you're planning an affordable city break, a beach holiday with your mates or the backpacking trip you've been talking about since first year, there's never been a better time to discover somewhere new - and of course it goes without saying, don't forget to check out all the amazing Travel Discounts available to our members!

Now all that's left to do is convince the group chat to actually agree on one destination...