Travel Agents Reveal Europe's Best Summer 2026 Hotspots
Four travel agents were asked about the most popular European destinations for summer 2026, and three clear winners emerged: Italy, Greece, and Cyprus. These experts, who book thousands of holidays annually, provided insider recommendations and tips for travelers.
Italy: A Must-Visit for Summer 2026
Italy is proving particularly popular with intrepid travelers this year. Katie North highlighted Puglia as an emerging hotspot due to its great beaches. Amanda Mollentze noted that Italy is not just for city breaks but also for discovering new destinations. She recently fell in love with Ravenna on the Emilia-Romagna coast, praising its history and food. Ashley Quint from TravelTime World observed increased interest in rail holidays, with Italy being reasonably priced for train travel. He recommended Calabria for its beautiful scenery and easy public transport, including train routes to Tropea and Sicily.
Greece: Timeless Appeal
Greece remains a top choice, with Katie North reporting strong interest in the mainland and many islands. Amanda Mollentze highlighted Greece's value for money and the early waiver of EU's EES rules, which require biometric data collection. She recommended Crete, specifically the Elounda Beach Resort and Elounda Bay Palace, and suggested visiting Spinalonga and Agios Nikolaos.
Cyprus: Resilient Destination
Despite concerns over a drone strike on a British military base, Cyprus remains popular, especially among older travelers. Richard Slater noted that families initially changed bookings to the Canaries, but those aged 50+ continued booking Cyprus without issue. Amanda described Cyprus as an all-year-round destination, recommending Paphos for its archaeological sites, Troodos Mountains, and attractions like the Tombs of the Kings and Aphrodite's Rock. She also mentioned the benefit of driving on the same side of the road as the UK.
Travel Advice for Summer 2026
Emma Brennan from ABTA reminded travelers to prepare for the Entry/Exit System (EES) in Europe, which includes biometric checks. Passports must be issued less than 10 years before entry and valid for at least three months after departure. Comprehensive travel insurance is also recommended. Booking with an ABTA member provides financial protection and support.
