From luxury train journeys to authentic experiences in undiscovered destinations, 2026 brings new ideas for how we will travel.
Travel is changing in an era where information is abundant, with social media playing a dominant role in the destinations we choose. Travelers in 2026 appear to be redefining their priorities and bringing back to the forefront unplugging from technology and a genuine connection with the world.
International media have once again highlighted the travel trends of the new year, inspired mainly by experiences centered on people and place. Getaways inspired by literature, sky-view cruises, and luxury rail travel are just some of what will capture the interest of travelers worldwide this year. Below we present eight of the most significant trends set to dominate travel in 2026.
Luxury train travel
The golden age of luxury rail travel is evolving. In recent years many new luxury rail routes have launched worldwide, but the 2026 trend moves beyond short trips. According to Conde Nast Traveller, affluent travelers no longer seek simply a nostalgic experience for a few days, like the Orient Express, but combine multiple luxury train journeys spanning several weeks, stepping from one train to the next. Although overall rail travel bookings are rising across all categories, it is the luxury trips that continue to steal the show.
Escapes inspired by classic literature
The set-jetting trend has become hugely popular in recent years. This year it enters a new phase according toConde Nast Traveller, drawing inspiration from classic literature and its television and film adaptations. In 2026, the villages, coasts, and landscapes of the United Kingdom are expected to attract travelers who want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of works by Jane Austen and the Brontë sisters. At the same time, farms, historic manors, and novel-inspired stays with themed book clubs have started to be very popular.
Authentic experiences over artificial intelligence
Despite the explosive rise of artificial intelligence, 2026 seems to mark a return to the value of human knowledge in tourism. As Conde Nast Traveller notes, although AI tools already influence the way travelers search for information and get around, more and more are turning again to specialist travel agents, content creators, and experienced travel writers. The reason is that authentic places, the best rooms, or the quietest spots are not instantly recorded by AI apps, and travelers are seeking more authentic human experiences on their trips.
Astro-cruising
Cruises take on new meaning this year, becoming platforms for observing rare celestial phenomena. Conde Nast Traveller notes that 2026 stands out for heightened solar activity, with one of the major events of the year being the total solar eclipse on 12 August. Many companies have prepared eclipse-themed itineraries in Greenland, Iceland, and Spain. This year, cruising becomes a platform for observing rare celestial phenomena such as the Northern Lights. Ships appear to have an advantage over land for viewing these events, as they can move if weather obstacles arise.
Interactive museums
Museums have faced challenges in recent years, with visitor numbers remaining subdued. CN Traveller points out that museums are redefining their role today, leaving behind old conventions. New and renovated museum projects are opening their doors to the public and enabling direct interaction with exhibits, incorporating augmented reality techniques (Virtual reality). From the V&A East Storehouse in London to the National Geographic Museum of Exploration in Washington, visitors gain access to museum backrooms and conservation labs, as museums transform into living spaces that offer experiences.
Grocery tourism
The grocery and super market tourism trend has made a dynamic entrance over the past three years. Throughout last year we kept reading about this phenomenon across popular travel sites and magazines. Local grocery stores and supermarkets are emerging as new travel hotspots, with visitors seeking authentic flavors and everyday rituals across shelves filled with local snacks and soft drinks. According to international research, the majority of travelers now turn to grocery store tourism, while social media have propelled its popularity with TikTok videos showcasing all the products influencers buy and taste on their trips.
All inclusive holidays and luxury packages
With mental exhaustion and the fatigue of daily life, travelers often do not want to deal with planning a trip. CNBC reports that many now seek someone they trust to make good choices for them, so they can switch off in the best way. This trend has been embraced especially by high-budget travelers who seek all inclusive experiences, curated itineraries, and luxury packages that allow them to have everything ready and fully relax without stressing about anything.
Beyond the beaten path
Travelers are moving away from saturated destinations they see everywhere on Instagram and turning to less publicized areas with a strong sense of identity. BBC Travel reports that travelers are seeking more authentic destinations that are lesser known and untested. Interest is rising in places like Toledo in Spain, Brandenburg in Germany, and even Iraq for the more daring. There is also an uptick in trips rooted in exploration and adventure, whether it is searching for authentic homestays in Nepal, visiting lesser-known parts of Italy, or simply heading to any undertouristed area with a vivid sense of place.
