The Next Albania? The Travel Destinations Set to Boom in 2026

Planning your next holiday is no easy task. From flights to hotels, to activities, budgets and insurance, it can sometimes feel like a juggling act- and that’s before you’ve even decided on the destination.

To help remove this stress and endless hours of researching where to go, experts at Total Travel Protection have analysed new flight routes, tourism policies, internal data and travel trends, to find the 7 breakout destinations for 2026.

Sarah Findlay, travel expert at Total Travel Protection, also offers advice on what not to miss at these destinations and the new travel rules that could affect you next year.

1. Vietnam 

Earlier this year, Vietnam extended its visa exemption for Brits to travel to the country for up to 45 days, until March 2028. This exemption makes travelling to the Southeast Asian country easier, leaving you with more time to plan activities to explore the vibrant culture.

From cruising on the Ha Long Bay, to exploring the vibrant cities and ancient towns, Vietnam is quickly becoming a favourite for Brits, and we don’t expect this to slow anytime soon. In 2025, the number of travellers taking out travel insurance for Vietnam with Total Travel Protection grew by 161 per cent- proof that more tourists are flocking to explore this vibrant country.

2. Uzbekistan 

Located in central Asia, Uzbekistan hasn’t traditionally been a popular destination for travellers, but due to its rich history, changing policies and affordability, we can expect to see more tourists visit. The country has approved a Tourism Development Program from next year, aimed at expanding accommodation infrastructure and attracting investment in hospitality. 

With its unique culture and history, you can expect to immerse yourself in a deeply authentic travel experience, including the Silk Road history, UNESCO‑listed heritage sites and the photogenic Registan Square. You can have peace of mind knowing that Brits are able to visit the country without a visa for up to 30 days.

3. Morocco 

A historically popular destination for Brits seeking winter sun, Morocco’s government is working to attract even more tourists next year with improved air connectivity, lodging and entertainment facilities. From the bustle of Marrakesh to the beaches in Tangier, tourists can get affordable flights to the North African country, making it a great budget destination. Total Travel Protection data reveals policies taken out for the country increased by 115 per cent this year. 

4. Chania, Crete (Greece)

While Crete is a well-known summer destination, a new travel route from East Midlands Airport to Crete’s lesser-known Chania offers UK tourists a quieter side to the island. Located in the Northwest of Crete, Chania is home to beautiful local beaches, historical attractions and Greek cuisine. This new route opens up an opportunity for a more peaceful, picturesque holiday.

5. Skiathos, Greece 

Similar to Chania, Skiathos offers a more peaceful and less commercial Greek island experience. New routes from London Luton Airport mean visitors can now enjoy the island’s stunning natural beauty, complete with the iconic landscapes featured in Mamma Mia. 

6. Bilbao, Spain

Known as the cultural hub of the Basque region, the port town of Bilbao offers an array of cultural experiences for tourists wanting to skip the typical Spanish beach resorts. Bilbao is home to many museums, including the renowned Guggenheim, and with new flights from London Luton Airport, we expect it to be a 2026 breakout destination. 

7. La Palma, Canary Islands

La Palma, part of Spain’s Canary Islands, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. With its gorgeous hiking trails and stunning beaches against a backdrop of volcanic terrain, the destination is perfect for nature-focused tourists. New flights from London Stansted Airport make this holiday destination even more accessible. 

Sarah concluded: “No matter where you end up travelling to in 2026, make sure you have adequately planned for the trip and taken out travel insurance. Problems can occur on all holidays, so it’s important you are protected.”

	Breakout destination	Reasons
1	Vietnam	30-day visa exemption for Brits, Total Travel Protection travel insurance for Vietnam grew by 161 per cent in 2025
2	Uzbekistan	2026 Tourism Development Program, 30-day visa-free travel and UNESCO‑listed heritage sites
3	Morocco	Improved tourism strategy, affordability, and 128 per cent growth for visitors in 2025 with Total Travel Protection
4	Chania, Crete	Provides a quieter side to Crete and a new travel route from East Midlands Airport
5	Skiathos, Greece	New routes from London Luton Airport, and a less commercial experience
6	Bilbao, Spain	Cultural hub of Spain and new flights from London Luton Airport
7	La Palma, Canary Islands	Gorgeous hiking trails, beaches, and new flights from London Stansted Airport

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