Globetrotters are getting fly in 2026.
Folks stricken with wanderlust are broadening their horizons in the approaching 12 months, setting their sights on atypical, albeit economical vacation destinations abroad, per Kayak’s latest travel report.
“Europe continues its winning streak, but 2026’s biggest story isn’t Paris, Rome or London,” wrote researchers. “It’s Eastern Europe.”
“Cities like Prague, Sofia, Krakow, Budapest, Tirana and Sarajevo are capturing travelers’ attention with lower-than-average airfare, wealthy history, vibrant food scenes and fewer crowds than Western Europe’s usual tourist hubs.”
Who doesn’t love an inexpensive thrill?
With inflation on the rise and mental stimulation on the low, saving a couple of dollars while exploring exciting latest lands is the secret for a lot of across the US.
In order that they’re jumping the border without breaking the bank.
“Flight interest for travel in 2026 is up 9% vs. 2025,” noted Kayak investigators. “Domestic airfare is down 3% and international airfare is down 10%.”
The highest overseas hotspot creating essentially the most buzz amongst American travelers is Christchurch, Latest Zealand. It’s seen a 194% increase in interest from jet-setters for the reason that dawn of 2025, and it can be accessible at a median round-trip economy airfare price of $1,297 in 2026.
Trailing closely behind the favored location is Prague, Czech Republic, which has garnered a powerful 180% uptick in attention from prospective visitors. And it can only cost trippers a palatable $695 for flights to-and-fro next 12 months.
Taking the third place position within the rating of trendiest European stops is Sofia, Bulgaria, boasting a 136% increase in appeal and $641 round-trip airfare fees.
For sightseers with latest 12 months resolutions to remain on budget while staying on US soil, costs to hit local tourist hubs corresponding to Latest York, Latest York and Chicago, Illinois will reach a blissful low in 2026, based on the findings.
A round-trip economy flight to NYC is projected to run trekkers a measly $294 — not bad for a bite of the Big Apple.
Try Kayak’s list of the trendiest international destinations of 2026.
| Christchurch, Latest Zealand | 194% | $1,297 |
| Prague, Czech Republic | 180% | $695 |
| Sofia, Bulgaria | 136% | $641 |
| Krakow, Poland | 106% | $678 |
| Budapest, Hungary | 86% | $720 |
| Bucharest, Romania | 80% | $730 |
| Split, Croatia | 74% | $801 |
| Tirana, Albania | 66% | $679 |
| Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina | 62% | $632 |
| Castries, Saint Lucia | 51% | $715 |
