Where to Go in Summer 2026? The 15 Best Destinations
If you're planning for the 2026 summer season, you're in the right place. Every year the standout destinations change; some places become overcrowded while new favourites emerge. In this guide we've compiled both the established favourites and the destinations rising especially in 2026, from a value-for-money perspective.
Mediterranean Classics: Greece, Italy, Spain
Athens and the Greek islands (Rhodes, Kos, Corfu, Mykonos) consistently rank at the top of the list every summer. Greece, reachable from Istanbul with a 1–2 hour flight and offering everything from budget-friendly island options to luxury resorts, continues to be a Mediterranean favourite.
In Italy, Rome, Florence and the Amalfi Coast are at the peak of the summer season; but the lesser-known Puglia region (Alberobello, Lecce) is both away from the crowds and far more affordable. In Spain, those who choose Valencia or San Sebastián over Barcelona and Madrid gain both a more authentic and a more economical experience.
Rising Destinations in 2026
Albania (Saranda, the Riviera): Becoming increasingly popular as Europe's last undiscovered Mediterranean coast. Crystal-clear sea at half the price of Croatia and Greece. A big increase in flight routes is expected in 2026.
Georgia (Batumi, Tbilisi): A tropical atmosphere on the Black Sea coast, Caucasian cuisine and very affordable prices. A 2-hour flight from Istanbul. A versatile option for those seeking both a city and a nature holiday.
Vietnam and Japan: Far away, but in 2026 flight options from Turkey have expanded; competitive prices for distant Asia tours can be caught with early booking.
Value-for-Money Ranking
Best value for money (within Europe): 1. Albania, 2. North Macedonia, 3. the Bulgarian coast (Sunny Beach), 4. Montenegro, 5. Cyprus in the shoulder season.
Mid-budget: 1. The Greek mainland coast and lesser-known islands (Lesvos, Samos), 2. the Croatian Dalmatian coast, 3. Portugal (the Algarve), 4. the interior regions of Spain.
Premium experience: 1. Italy's Amalfi Coast, 2. France's Provence, 3. Santorini/Mykonos, 4. the Scandinavian fjords. In this segment early booking is essential; finding space in high season is increasingly difficult.
Domestic Summer Alternatives
Turkey's Aegean and Mediterranean coasts offer world-class summer holiday destinations. Bodrum, Çeşme and Alaçatı have come to rival some European destinations on price in high season; however, spots like Datça, Göcek, Kaş and Patara remain both much quieter and more affordable.
The most sought-after domestic destinations in summer 2026: Ölüdeniz, Çeşme, Antalya's Kaş, Bodrum's Yalıkavak and Marmaris. Compared with international prices, stay if there's a value advantage; if not, going abroad can be a creative option.
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