Expedia Group has identified Savoie, France, and Sardinia, Italy, as Europe's top two trending destinations for 2026. This forecast comes from their annual 'Unpack '26' report, which analyzed booking data and thousands of traveler surveys. These selections highlight a growing interest in both alpine and coastal European experiences.
Key Takeaways
- Savoie, France, and Sardinia, Italy, are Expedia's top European picks for 2026.
- The selections are based on extensive booking data and traveler surveys.
- Savoie offers mountain activities, charming towns, and local cuisine.
- Sardinia provides pristine beaches, historic towns, and ancient sites.
- New direct flights from New York to Olbia, Sardinia, will begin in May 2026.
Expedia's 'Unpack '26' Report Findings
Each year, Expedia Group releases a detailed report on emerging travel trends and destinations. The 'Unpack '26' edition utilized a combination of booking information and feedback from thousands of travelers. This approach aims to provide insights into where people are planning to travel in the coming year.
The report's findings often surprise industry watchers. For 2026, the focus shifted away from widely publicized spots like Albania or lesser-known Greek islands. Instead, two distinct European regions emerged as top choices for future travel.
Travel Data Insights
- Expedia's report is based on millions of booking transactions.
- Thousands of traveler surveys contribute to trend identification.
- The annual 'Unpack' series aims to predict future travel hotspots.
Savoie, France: An Alpine Escape
Savoie, located in the French Alps, was named one of Europe's top destinations for 2026. This region is known for its diverse natural beauty, appealing to visitors throughout the year. It offers a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
The area features rustic chalets, deep valleys, and snow-capped mountain peaks. Crystal-clear mountain streams are common, providing scenic views and opportunities for exploration. Savoie is also recognized for its local cuisine, including Beaufort cheese.
Chambéry: The Heart of Savoie
Chambéry serves as a central hub for exploring Savoie. It is strategically positioned within the French Alps, at the base of a medieval castle. The city's Old Town has historic streets and notable museums.
Traditional auberges in Chambéry offer local mountain cuisine. From this base, travelers can easily reach several attractions. These include Lake Bourget, bordered by spa hotels and pine forests, and the village of Beaufort, known for its rustic appearance.
Geographical Context
Savoie is a department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France. It is part of the historic Duchy of Savoy. The region is characterized by its mountainous terrain, including parts of the Mont Blanc massif.
Exploring the Vanoise National Park
Close to Chambéry is the vast Parc National de la Vanoise. This national park covers approximately 204 square miles. It contains glaciers, scenic lakes, and numerous hiking trails. The park caters to those seeking outdoor adventures.
"Savoie offers a unique blend of rugged natural beauty and charming historical towns. It's a destination that truly appeals to nature lovers and those seeking authentic European experiences," said a travel expert familiar with the region.
Best Time to Visit Savoie
The ideal time to visit Savoie depends on planned activities. For winter sports like skiing, resorts typically operate from mid-November to early April. The region is a popular destination for snow enthusiasts during these months.
For hiking and other outdoor activities, spring and summer are more suitable. During these seasons, snow melts in lower elevations, making most mountain paths accessible. Temperatures are milder, creating comfortable conditions for exploration.
Travel to Savoie
The most convenient way to reach Chambéry in Savoie is by flying into Lyon, France, or Geneva, Switzerland. From either airport, travelers can transfer by car or train.
- From Lyon: A train ride to Chambéry takes about 1.5 hours.
- From Geneva: Cross-border train travel to Chambéry can take up to 2.5 hours.
Sardinia, Italy: An Island Paradise
Sardinia, Italy, is Expedia's second top pick for European travelers in 2026. This island is known for its white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, often compared to Caribbean landscapes. It also features colorful harbor towns and a rugged inland area.
While not as widely known as the Amalfi Coast or Sicily, Sardinia offers many natural and man-made attractions. These can keep visitors engaged for extended periods, from its northern shores to its historic southern capital.
The Costa Smeralda and Archipelago
In northern Sardinia, the Costa Smeralda is a notable area. It features unspoiled sandy beaches and nature parks. This region typically experiences fewer crowds compared to mainland Italy's popular coastal areas.
Off the coast, the Maddalena archipelago consists of several islets. This area is even more tranquil and easily accessible through boat tours, offering a peaceful retreat for visitors.
Sardinia's Unique Features
- The island boasts over 1,800 kilometers of coastline.
- It is home to unique Nuragic civilization ruins.
- Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea.
Historic Towns and Coastal Beauty
Sardinia has several historic towns. Alghero is a walled town with strong Catalan influences, reflecting its past connections. Bosa, situated along the Temo River, is known for its pastel-colored buildings and the hilltop Malaspina Castle.
In the southern part of the island, Cagliari serves as the compact capital. It is rich in history, with medieval structures and Roman ruins. Cagliari also borders the picturesque Poetto Beach. A short 50-minute drive from Cagliari leads to Chia, another popular destination for beach lovers, featuring white sands, clear waters, dunes, and natural lagoons.
Ancient Sites and Cultural Exploration
For those interested in history and culture, Nora is a significant site. It is an ancient Roman archaeological area located directly by the sea. This provides a glimpse into the island's long past and offers a unique coastal setting for historical exploration.
"Sardinia combines breathtaking natural beauty with a deep historical narrative. From its pristine beaches to its ancient ruins, the island offers a rich experience for every type of traveler," an Expedia representative noted.
Best Time to Visit Sardinia
Sardinia is primarily a sunny destination. The best time to visit is generally from late April, when the rainy season ends and temperatures rise, through mid- or late October. This period offers pleasant weather for various activities.
July and August are the busiest months. However, Sardinia's many tourist attractions are spread out across the island. This distribution means that even during peak season, visitors often do not feel overwhelmed by crowds, whether on a beach or in a mountain village.
New Direct Flights to Sardinia
Starting May 20, 2026, new nonstop flights will connect New York (JFK) to Olbia, Sardinia. Olbia is considered the gateway to the Costa Smeralda in the northern part of the island. These flights will operate four times a week.
The new route will remain active throughout the summer season. This development makes Sardinia a more accessible sunny getaway option for travelers from the United States who are interested in visiting Italy.
Traveler Tips for 2026
- Consider visiting Savoie in spring or summer for hiking, or winter for skiing.
- Explore Sardinia's diverse regions to avoid peak season crowds.
- Book new direct flights to Olbia, Sardinia, for easier access from the US.
- Research local cuisine in both destinations for a full cultural experience.
