destinations Archives

Best European Destinations to Visit in October

October 2, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

What if autumn is one of the best seasons for traveling in Europe? In October, the scorching heat of summer gives way to milder temperatures, while beaches, cultural sites, and cities regain a bit of calm after the summer crowds. From the Mediterranean to Central European capitals, certain destinations still offer sunny days. Here are ten getaway ideas to enjoy All Saints’ Day holidays without traveling far.

Malta, the Mediterranean archipelago that extends summer into October

Renowned for its numerous beaches and coves, the Maltese archipelago can reach temperatures of around 26°C in October.

Several sites not to miss on the island of Malta:

Valletta and its many historic monuments;
The garden island of Gozo;
The islet and the lagoon of Comino;
The towns of Mdina, Rabat and Mosta;
The Blue Grotto;
The Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum.

Feet in the Water in Greece

Greece is the ideal sunny destination for October vacations. Temperatures most often reach around 23°C and rarely drop below 20°C. It is the perfect time to enjoy the seaside resorts of the many Greek islands while avoiding the heavy tourist crowds of the summer.

Among the places to visit in Greece in October one can cite :

Paros;
Sifnos;
Corfu;
Mykonos;
Santorini;
Rhodes;
Creta.

Portugal in October: a favorable climate

Popular with travelers for couples, families or solo trips, Portugal enjoys warm temperatures, reaching up to around 24°C. Outside of the very touristy Lisbon, the country is also a dream destination for a nature-filled stay such as :

Cape Saint-Vincent in the Algarve;
The Douro Valley in Porto;
Porto Santo in Madeira.

Where to go in Spain in October?

Depending on the region, temperatures in Spain in October can climb above 30°C.

A destination ideal for All Saints’ holidays with family, Spain and its islands — Menorca, Tenerife, Mallorca, Ibiza, Lanzarote — offer numerous cultural visits and/or beautiful beaches to enjoy a last swim before winter.

Among the cities to visit in Spain in October one can cite :

Barcelona;
Córdoba;
Granada;
Madrid;
Málaga;
Seville;
Palma;
San Sebastián.

An Indian Summer in Italy

In October, temperatures in Italy are generally mild, often exceeding 20°C. Autumn is an ideal time to visit Italian cities, away from the tourist crowds and the summer heat. If you wish to swim in the crystal-clear waters of one of southern Italy’s islands, such as Sicily, Ischia or Sardinia, the water may, however, be a little cool.

Budapest’s Autumn Charm

October temperatures in Budapest are not very high, but the Hungarian capital is a European city that can be explored over a weekend or even a week, given its rich history.

Begin by wandering the streets of the capital, then discover Buda Castle as well as the Fisherman’s Bastion. Enjoy the view of the Danube and Pest, and continue on to one of the city’s many monuments and museums. Budapest’s baths, true institutions, promise a moment of relaxation in a sublime setting.

Our top 10 European countries to go to for All Saints’ Day in October:

Greece;
Italy;
Portugal;
Spain;
Southern France;
Croatia;
Malta;
Hungary;
the Netherlands;
Albania.

Top Vacation Destinations to Watch in 2027

September 25, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

L'été 2026 confirme l’évolution des habitudes de voyage des Français - Depositphotos.com, janoka82

Climats du Monde

The economic context continues to weigh on travellers’ choices.

According to data observed by Petit Futé, travel agencies registered 8% fewer bookings in July and August, while the average basket rose slightly to 2,098 euros (+1.2%).

Nevertheless, the French do not give up on traveling: after a 30% drop in reservations between March and May, those made between June and August rose by 56%. For the season overall, reservations show a 6% increase.

The short-haul segment also grows by 8%, while France holds firm with a decline limited to 0.8%.

“23°C rather than 39°C”: coolness becomes a criterion of choice

Beyond the budget, the question of temperatures could permanently reshape the geography of summer holidays.

The traditional sun-soaked getaway no longer necessarily means seeking the highest temperatures. Brittany and Normandy record a 10% growth in the market data cited by Petit Futé.

Searches on petitfute.com notably rise by 11% in Finistère, 5.2% in Côtes-d’Armor, 4.5% in Calvados and 4% in Manche.

This pursuit of coolness also crosses borders. The Asturias, Cantabria, Galicia and the Basque Country emerge as alternatives to the more southern Spanish destinations, combining coast, mountains and milder temperatures.

Further north, Norway, Scotland and Ireland also benefit from this trend, sometimes referred to as a “coolcation.”

The mountains also take center stage in summer

Another shift noted by Petit Futé: the mountains confirm their appeal during the summer period. 30% of French people took a mountain holiday between spring and autumn.

This dynamic is reflected in petitfute.com’s audiences, with notable increases of 11% in Ardèche and 3.4% in Savoie.

Nature, outdoor activities and more moderate temperatures contribute to making the mountains an alternative to coastal destinations that are highly exposed to extreme heat. For Petit Futé, this trend could now become a lasting part of summer habits.

Albania and Montenegro among the destinations to watch

Abroad, Albania and Montenegro show a 10% increase in bookings in 2026. Two destinations that could continue to gain ground in 2027.

In Montenegro, Petit Futé particularly bets on Kotor and Perast, but also on the combination of Adriatic coastline and mountainous landscapes.

In Albania, the enthusiasm for Ksamil could give way to a new phase of discovery of the country. Himarë, Berat, Theth or Valbona could thus benefit from a shift of demand toward less frequented territories.

This search for alternatives does not necessarily mean travelers are abandoning major destinations. Another logic seems to be emerging: continue traveling in well-known countries, but favoring their less-touristed regions.

Which destinations for 2027?

Based on the trends observed this summer, Petit Futé identifies several territories likely to gain in attractiveness next year. Scandinavia could especially benefit from the search for coolness, while Poland aims to go beyond the image of a simple city-break thanks to its Baltic coast, its lake region and mountainous ranges.

The same dynamic is seen in Northern Spain, where Asturias, Cantabria, Galicia and the Basque Country bring together several of the expectations observed in 2026: nature, ocean, gastronomy and milder temperatures.

Romania, with Transylvania and the Danube Delta, as well as Slovenia, with its lakes and the Julian Alps, are also among destinations to watch.

In France, Brittany, Normandy and the Cotentin, but also the Jura and the Vercors, could continue to benefit from this shift in travelers’ behaviors.

Top 50 Travel Destinations Worldwide for 2027 According to Lonely Planet

September 24, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Lonely Planet has just unveiled its Best in Travel 2027 selection, comprising fifty destinations and experiences chosen from around the globe. “We don’t merely endorse a single travel genre. It’s first and foremost about finding the experience that matches current travel desires (…) This list is above all a showcase of experiences that are accessible and doable, perfect for a weekend,” explains Nitya Chambers, editor-in-chief of the guide, to CNN on Tuesday, September 22.

In North America, the guide highlights Quebec, the redwood forests along the California coast, Maryland, Prince Edward Island, and New Mexico. It also offers some more original experiences, such as a visit to Rose Island Lighthouse, a flight over Alaska, a getaway to the vineyards of Valle de Guadalupe in Mexico, a stay in South Beach in Miami, or a discovery of Minnesota’s wide-open spaces.

Historical Heritage, Unconventional Experiences, and Nature…

Next, Europe takes the spotlight, with Veneto (Venice, the Dolomites…), the German city of Dessau, the Swedish Riviera around Skanör-Falsterbo, Croatia with Šibenik, and Spain with León among the current favorites. Lonely Planet also suggests following the famous Napoleon Route in France, sailing between the Aeolian Islands off Sicily, walking the Saint Cuthbert’s Way to Lindisfarne, exploring Greece’s underwater landscapes, or admiring Killary Fjord in Ireland.

In the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, the selection includes Montserrat, the Bariloche lake region in Argentina, the colonial city of Granada in Nicaragua, as well as Bocas del Toro in Panama. Among the suggested experiences are an expedition cruise to the Galápagos, a tango introduction in Buenos Aires, a swim in the icy waters of Antarctica, or a stroll through Monteverde’s Cloud Forest in Costa Rica.

In Africa and the Middle East, the spotlight shines on Oman, the Moroccan capital Rabat, as well as Kenya’s Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks. Museums in Abu Dhabi are recommended, as is a safari at Gombe in Tanzania, made famous by Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee research, or a journey to the São Tomé and Príncipe archipelago.

Okinawa, Chengdu, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway…

Then comes Oceania, featuring Dunedin and the Waitaki region in New Zealand, Tweed in Australia, and New Caledonia, not to mention artistic experiences in Australia’s Red Centre, an immersion into the Samoan Fa’a Samoa culture, or nautical adventures in French Polynesia.

Finally, Asia completes this selection with Okinawa in Japan, Chengdu in China, Gujarat in India, Da Nang in Vietnam, and Fulidhoo Island in the Maldives. Travelers can opt for a boat excursion to orangutan territories in Malaysia, a ride aboard the legendary Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in India, a hike along the Michinoku Coastal Trail in Japan, a culinary journey in Taiwan, or a look at Astana’s distinctive architecture in Kazakhstan. Ideas for years to come!

From Latvia to Kenya: 10 Pristine Destinations to Discover in 2027

September 20, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Every day, no fewer than 30,000 people crowd in front of the Trevi Fountain in Rome, enough to fill more than once the Accor Arena Paris-Bercy. This overtourism, which Paris, Barcelona or Amsterdam also know, is no longer tenable. Neither for visitors nor for residents. It is precisely to offer an alternative that the Intrepid Travel agency publishes each year its famous Not Hot List, a ranking of destinations still preserved.

They are chosen according to three precise criteria: a low rate of tourist visitation, infrastructure sufficient to welcome travelers, and their ability to renew themselves, whether through events, projects or recent developments.

Kenya and Georgia at the Top of the List

The ranking drawn up for 2027 was unveiled by Time Out. First stop: Kenya, with Samburu National Reserve. This vast wild space in East Africa still attracts only 30,000 to 40,000 visitors per year, compared with about 300,000 for the Masai Mara reserve. Yet, there too, leopards, cheetahs and elephants roam these lands in peace, far from the crowds. The region even hosts its own trio of local stars, nicknamed the “Samburu Five”.

Among the wildlife are the reticulated giraffe, Grévy’s zebra, the Somali ostrich, the beisa oryx of East Africa, and the Waller’s gazelle, whose long neck you won’t forget.

Ranked second are Georgia and the small mountain town of Mestia, which have nothing to envy from the Alps. This corner currently attracts fewer than 100,000 visitors per year, compared with 120 million for the Alpine massif. New infrastructure and an airport are, in fact, under construction. A sign that Mestia’s discretion may not last forever.

Dili, Alonnisos, the Pekoe Trail…

In Jordan, it is the northern highlands of the country that captivate with their unexpected greenery, in contrast to the desert landscapes typically associated with this destination. Community tourism initiatives, designed to support the locals, are also highly acclaimed.

The list also yields other surprises, such as the small Greek island of Alonnisos, home to monk seals that are sadly endangered, a tucked-away Southeast Asian destination far from the beat of backpackers, Dili (Timor-Leste), or the European Capital of Culture in the making, Liepāja in Latvia. In total, ten emerging destinations make up this edition, from Canada’s Whitehorse to Sweden’s Dalsland region, via Chile’s Carretera Austral and Sri Lanka’s Pekoe Trail. A wealth of leads for an upcoming adventure, to be noted somewhere in the back of one’s mind.

Best Travel Destinations for Retirees in 2026

September 17, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

When retirement comes, the French feel like traveling. According to a 2025 Ipsos study, 63% of seniors over 65 plan to travel in the next five years, and 70% have already done so in the past two years. And they are far from the only ones. Across the world, those over 65 who can afford it take advantage of retirement to discover new destinations. So much so that the travel site Firebird Tours has compiled a list of the best countries to visit as a retiree.

The travel site has decided to highlight places “where being 60 is better than being 20”. It bases this on several objective criteria: the share of seniors in the country, reduced rates in museums and in transportation, the percentage of places walkable on foot, indices of peace, safety and national health, as well as the number of UNESCO-listed sites and Michelin-starred restaurants.

The Best Retirement Destination Is Found in Asia

With these criteria, France only ranks 24th. Despite hosting 641 Michelin-starred restaurants in the country — more than anywhere else — the perceived safety level, which is rather low, costs it many points. It is therefore far from the top of the ranking, with Japan occupying first place. Thanks to its aging population and to the infrastructure designed for them, to its rich culture and to its safety beyond question, the land of the rising sun would be the best destination for retirees.

The first European country on the list appears in second place. It is Germany. This is notably thanks to its senior-friendly transport policy, including for non-German residents, to its 54 UNESCO sites and to its 336 Michelin-starred restaurants. Almost all other top-10 countries are European. We find Spain, Slovenia, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Finland and the Netherlands. Like France, Italy is pushed into the background and ranks 11th.

A Ranking You Can Create Yourself Based on Your Own Criteria

In tenth place we find Canada, the first American country to appear in the ranking. The United States sits at 20th, still ahead of France. Results quite different from the usual travel rankings. For a long time, France has been the undisputed leading destination for world travelers. Moreover, our seniors do not tire of it: 55% of their stays take place in France.

If you are a retiree looking for your next destination but only some of the criteria proposed by Firebird Tours interest you, you can look at the details. If we focus only on the criterion of special pricing for older travelers in transportation, Hungary comes first. In terms of safety, however, New Zealand tops the list. For fine dining, there is no secret: France is the place to stay.

Jans Tours Invites Travel Professionals to IFTM 2026 to Shape Tomorrow’s Travel Across Four Destinations

September 11, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Hurtigruten

IFTM: three days to reconnect and prepare for 2027

A few weeks ahead of IFTM Top Resa, Jans Tours is gearing up to reconnect with its partners and tourism professionals for three days of meetings and exchanges.

For the receptive side, the trade show provides a privileged moment to take time to discuss upcoming projects, present new offerings, and share the latest inspirations from local teams.

As journeys for 2027 are already being planned, traveler expectations are evolving too: more personalization, new experiences, itineraries that depart from the classics, lesser-known addresses, and programs tailored to specific clienteles — topics that can be discussed directly with Jans Tours teams.

The objective is simple: to engage with professionals, understand their needs and collaboratively build the upcoming journeys for their clients.

Four destinations, four ways of traveling

This year, Jans Tours arrives at IFTM with four destinations to present to industry professionals: Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Switzerland.

Four distinct realms, but a single approach: a strong local presence and teams that know their destinations from the inside out.

Indonesia remains at the heart of Jans Tours’ DNA. Bali, Java, Lombok, Sumatra, Komodo—these regions enable the creation of very diverse journeys, from a first-time visit to Indonesia to more hidden itineraries and tailored experiences.

In the Philippines, the team also guides professionals in building programs that blend islands, beaches, nature, encounters, and local experiences. A destination still full of opportunities to move beyond the most classical itineraries.

Malaysia continues to grow within the group. With its office in Kuala Lumpur, Jans Tours can rely on a locally based team to design programs aligned with travelers’ expectations and the needs of professionals.

And then, there is Switzerland.

A new destination joins the Jans Tours family

It’s one of the major novelties of this 2026 edition: Jans Tours expands its playing field with the opening of its office in Switzerland.

After Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia, this new presence marks another milestone in the group’s development.

Jans Tours Switzerland is now fully operational on the ground and completes Jans Tours’ international network.

The destination opens up new possibilities for professionals: individual trips, group departures, incentives, premium stays, or tailor-made itineraries can be crafted around Switzerland’s diverse landscapes and experiences.

From the Alps to the lakes, cities to villages, gastronomy to scenic railway experiences, Switzerland offers a particularly rich playground for designing bespoke programs.

And above all, as with its Asian destinations, Jans Tours relies on local knowledge and close relationships with professionals.

So, even if the Jans Tours stand is located in the Asia space, Swiss projects are, of course, welcome!

An international team gathered in Paris

For this edition of IFTM, several Jans Tours team members will travel to Paris.

Anthony, Audrey, Eva and Lucie from the France office will be on hand to welcome professionals and discuss their projects.

Also present will be Geoffrey, Rudi and Benjamin, directly from the Indonesia office, as well as Sylvain, representing the Malaysia office.

An international team that will allow visitors to meet both their usual contacts in France and the teams based directly at the destinations.

Because this is also Jans Tours’ hallmark: behind every program there are local teams who know the ground realities, partners, new offerings, and experiences truly worth presenting to travelers. There is also a France-based office, with dedicated contacts, enabling French-language exchanges and close, on-site support, without time-zone constraints.

IFTM will thus be an opportunity to (re)put faces to these teams, and to take time to discuss beyond emails and quote requests.

Malaysia featured at a second pavilion

Jans Tours will also be present at the pavilion of the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board, stand A014.

A complementary presence that will allow professionals to come and discuss the destination, its novelties, and programming possibilities.

Malaysia indeed offers numerous options for building journeys that combine major highlights with more intimate experiences. With its local team based in Kuala Lumpur, Jans Tours continues developing this destination with agencies and tour operators.

Professionals will therefore be able to find Jans Tours at two different spots in the show, depending on their needs and projects.

Meetings from September 15 to 17 in Paris

Jans Tours donne rendez-vous aux professionnels à l’IFTM 2026 pour préparer les voyages de demain autour de 4 destinations

Audrey Marc

Deputy Director, France

+ 33 6 70 54 20 63

+ 33 1 61 30 30 06

[email protected]

jans.tours

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Solo Travel With Your Dog: Top Destinations for Easy Adventures

August 23, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Going solo doesn’t necessarily mean traveling without company, especially when your dog is part of the journey. Some destinations make it easy to mix walks, cultural discoveries, and moments of relaxation with your animal. Others primarily offer wide open spaces, beaches, or scenic routes where a four-legged companion really matters. Here are seven ideas for destinations where traveling solo with your dog can be particularly enjoyable, according to journalist Becca Blond, who has roamed the world with her dog Poppy.

European cities where dogs easily fit in

Barcelona presents a compelling option for those who want to combine an urban stay with seaside excursions. With Antoni Gaudí’s architecture, lively neighborhoods, and the Ramblas, the Catalan capital offers numerous walking opportunities. Dogs can especially enjoy Playa de Llevant, one of the city’s beaches accessible to them. From June to September, AquaPark Canino also offers two pools, outdoor spaces, and a restaurant that welcomes owners accompanied by their animal.

Another European destination renowned for its dog-friendly hospitality is Italy, which lets you enjoy a blend of big cities, villages, and rural landscapes. In Rome as in Tuscany, dogs can accompany their owners on many outings. Vineyards, in particular, offer a chance to discover another facet of the country. Near Florence, the Il Borro estate, owned by the Ferragamo family, is among the addresses tested and approved by the expert.

Further north, Berlin stands out for its especially accommodating stance toward animals. Dogs can use public transport and are welcomed in many bars. Tempelhofer Feld, a former airport runway turned into a vast public space, also gives them more freedom. A feature that can greatly simplify organizing a stay when traveling alone and constantly balancing the needs of one’s animal.

Beaches, wide spaces, and iconic routes to change the air

For nature lovers, Alaska offers a dramatically different backdrop. From Anchorage, renting a car allows you to head north and reach the Denali National Park area. However, note that dogs are not allowed on most park trails, primarily to limit disturbances to wildlife. The nearby Denali State Park is more permissive and allows you to traverse the Curry Ridge Trail with your pet.

A change of scene awaits with Aruba in the Caribbean. The island welcomes many travelers accompanied by their dog, and several beaches are accessible to animals. In San Nicolas, Baby Beach can be suitable for dogs wary of water thanks to its shallow, calm waters. The island also offers a vibrant artistic scene through its numerous mural paintings.

In the United States, California’s Highway 1 is particularly well suited for a road trip. Between the cliffs of Big Sur, the Pacific landscapes, and stops such as Carmel or Santa Cruz, this route offers plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the scenery with your dog.

Finally, New Orleans presents a more urban alternative. The city features dog-friendly bars in the French Quarter and cafes with terraces where you can settle in with your animal. A way to discover the music and ambiance of the city without having to leave your companion at the hotel.

Before leaving, it is best to plan the trip carefully: food, water, a leash, medical documents, and a first-aid kit should be part of the essentials. With an itinerary tailored to you and stops checked in advance, traveling solo with your dog becomes, more than anything, another way to discover the world!

UAE and Egypt: Two Exceptional Destinations with DAKKAK UAE’s Local Expertise

August 21, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

The United Arab Emirates: A Destination That Continues to Reinvent Itself

CroisiEurope

For several years, the United Arab Emirates have been among the most sought-after destinations for international travelers. Their success rests on a unique combination: ultra-high-level infrastructure, safety, quality of service, a sunny climate for much of the year, and a wealth of experiences on offer.

Far more than a shopping or seaside destination, the UAE now invites visitors to discover a preserved cultural heritage, spectacular desert landscapes, cosmopolitan cuisine and a multitude of activities suited to couples, families, groups and business travelers.

Each emirate has its own identity and enables a different kind of stay.

Dubai, the City of Experiences

A city of records and innovation, Dubai impresses with its futuristic architecture and vibrancy. Dominated by the silhouette of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, it attracts luxury enthusiasts as well as curious travelers eager to explore a destination that is continually evolving.

Beyond its famous shopping malls and prestigious hotels, Dubai also reveals a more authentic side. The historic Al Fahidi district, the Dubai Creek crossing aboard traditional abras, and the gold and spice souks bear witness to the emirate’s history before its dramatic ascent.

The experiences are plentiful: desert safari, dinner under the stars, a dhow cruise in the marina, a helicopter over Palm Jumeirah, a visit to the Museum of the Future, or a relaxing day on the Gulf beaches. Dubai proves itself as a destination capable of satisfying every desire.

Abu Dhabi: Elegance Between Tradition and Modernity

As the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi offers a calmer atmosphere where the art of living, culture and architecture harmoniously converge.

The majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ranks among the finest monuments in the Arab world and is a must-see stop. Art lovers will also appreciate the Louvre Abu Dhabi, while the Qasr Al Watan presidential palace unveils the country’s history and traditions.

Families will find delight on Yas Island, with its international theme parks, while nature lovers can set off to explore the mangroves, pristine beaches, or the vast desert dunes.

Abu Dhabi beautifully embodies the balance between cultural heritage and contemporary development.

Beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi: Emirates Still Lesser Known

The United Arab Emirates are far from limited to their two flagship cities. Ras Al Khaimah lures adventure enthusiasts with its mountains, hiking trails and the world’s longest zip line. Fujairah, bordered by the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its underwater life, beaches and wilder landscapes.

Sharjah, recognized as the cultural capital of the Emirates, offers immersion in history, museums and Arab traditions, while Ajman and Umm Al Quwain charm travelers seeking tranquility.

This diversity makes it possible to craft varied itineraries, tailored to all types of travelers.

Egypt: A Timeless Destination

Just a few hours by air from the Emirates, Egypt perfectly complements a trip to the Middle East.

For millennia, it has captivated the world with its exceptional heritage. The Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, Saqqara and the Grand Egyptian Museum are among the must-see sites for history enthusiasts.

Cairo also entices with its energy, historic districts, traditional markets and a booming culinary scene.

But Egypt is not limited to its capital.

A Nile cruise: an essential experience

Navigating between Luxor and Aswan remains one of the most beautiful ways to discover Egypt.

Along the Nile, travelers explore the temples of Karnak, Luxor, Edfu, Kom Ombo and Philae, guided by specialists who bring to life more than five thousand years of history.

Cruises combine comfort, cultural discovery and peaceful landscapes, offering an experience particularly appreciated by European travelers.

The Red Sea: relaxation and nature

To extend their stay, many travelers choose the Red Sea resort towns.

Hurghada, Marsa Alam and El Quseir offer an ideal setting for relaxation, water sports and scuba diving. The coral reefs are among the world’s finest and attract both beginners and experienced divers.

This blend of cultural heritage and seaside stays is one of the destination’s major strengths.

Dakkak UAE: your local partner for tailor-made journeys

Émirats arabes unis et Égypte : deux destinations d'exception, une expertise locale signée DAKKAK UAE

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To arrange a meeting, contact us at the following address: [email protected]

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Laith ALEMAM

Chief Executive Officer

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17 European Destinations That Seem Straight Out of a Fairy Tale

August 6, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

Castles perched on hills, medieval villages with half-timbered houses, and landscapes that look unreal… Some places in Europe truly feel like stepping into a fairy tale. A ranking unveiled by European Best Destinations highlights 17 destinations to explore in 2026, including several French sites among the continent’s most enchanting.

From Germany to Slovenia, European destinations that spark dreams

At the top of the ranking compiled by European Best Destinations is Eltz Castle in Germany. This fortress, owned by the same family since the 12th century, rises amid the hills and the Eltz Forest. Its spectacular setting even earned it as a backdrop for the film The Ninth Configuration, released in 1979. On Google Reviews, a visitor sums up their visit: “An exceptional experience, you really feel like you’re in a fairy tale”. They add: “You should absolutely take the guided tour; you’ll have an authentic castle experience. It feels like traveling back in time”.

Germany also features a second site in the top 10 with Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. Often touted as the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, it is one of the country’s most visited monuments. A traveler writes on Google Reviews: “It’s the most beautiful castle in the world for a good reason. The details inside are astonishing”.

Spain is represented by Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava, where an old fortified town overlooks beaches and Mediterranean coves. According to the official tourism office, “Tossa de Mar offers the sea and the mountains, a unique landscape with a history that inspires art and culture, traditions, gastronomy and Mediterranean hospitality”.

In Northern Ireland, the Dark Hedges, a spectacular avenue of beech trees planted around 1775, owe part of their popularity to the Game of Thrones series. “This place is a true dream for Game of Thrones fans”, confirms a visitor on Google Reviews.

The ranking also highlights Riga, the capital of Latvia, renowned for its historic center and Art Nouveau architecture, as well as Lake Bled in Slovenia, famous for its island and church at the heart of the Julian Alps. Other included destinations also include Prague (Czech Republic), Sintra (Portugal), Isola Bella and the Orcus Gardens of Bomarzo (Italy), Popeye Village in Mellieħa (Malta), the Alcázar of Segovia (Spain), or Craiova in Romania, whose Christmas market spans more than 280,000 square meters.

Mont Saint-Michel, Riquewihr, and Kaysersberg Represent France

France has three representatives in this ranking. The most emblematic is undoubtedly Mont-Saint-Michel, whose Gothic abbey towers over a tidal islet. UNESCO World Heritage-listed, the site draws millions of visitors each year eager to admire its unique architecture. On Tripadvisor, a traveler recalls: “My first impression on getting off the bus was stunning! It reminded me of The Lord of the Rings.” They continue: “It’s a totally unique experience”.

Alsace is also highlighted with two villages. Riquewihr, located between the Vosges mountains and the Alsace Plain, is renowned for its half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes, and vineyard surroundings. Classified among France’s Most Beautiful Villages, it has preserved its medieval character and appeals to both heritage enthusiasts and wine tourism lovers.

A few kilometres away, Kaysersberg completes the selection. Spanning the Weiss and dominated by the ruins of its castle, this Alsatian village is also known for its colorful facades, half-timbered houses, and a fairy-tale atmosphere. With three destinations out of 17 in the ranking, France confirms that it remains one of the European countries where it is easiest to treat oneself to a fairy-tale escape without leaving the continent.

17 fairy-tale destinations in Europe

Eltz Castle (Germany)
Mont Saint-Michel (France)
Tossa de Mar (Spain)
Dark Hedges (Northern Ireland, United Kingdom)
Riga (Latvia)
Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany)
Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Germany)
Lake Bled (Slovenia)
Riquewihr (France)
Craiova (Romania)
Bomarzo Monster Gardens (Italy)
Popeye Village, Mellieħa (Malta)
Prague (Czech Republic)
Kaysersberg (France)
Alcázar of Segovia (Spain)
Isola Bella (Italy)
Sintra (Portugal)

Top European Destinations for Dog-Friendly Holidays

August 1, 2026 by Amara Nambinga

For a long time considered a constraint to manage when traveling, the family pet is now at the heart of vacation choices for many Europeans. Hotels, restaurants, transportation, beaches and activities are gradually tailoring their offerings to welcome dogs and, to a lesser extent, cats. According to Agria pet insurance, 37% of dog owners say they choose only destinations that are suitable for their animal, compared with 23% of cat owners. In response to this demand, several European cities and regions are turning pet-friendly tourism with a four-legged companion into a real draw.

Europe Adapts to Travelers With Pets

Some destinations have taken the lead by integrating animals into daily tourist life. In Amsterdam, dogs can notably accompany their owners in many cafes, shops and public transport. The lodging sector has also adapted, offering options ranging from hotels to canal-side accommodations. For walks, large green spaces like Vondelpark serve as preferred meeting points.

In Italy, dog-friendly hospitality even extends to the coastline. Some private beaches provide facilities specifically designed for dogs, such as water stations, shaded areas, showers, or play zones. Near Rome, the “Bau Beach” has established itself as a reference in this field. The country also offers options for traveling with a pet on certain regional trains and local transports.

Croatia, for its part, focuses on outdoor activities. Several beaches along the Dalmatian coast allow dogs, notably around Split and Dubrovnik, while the island of Krk also has areas accessible to animals. Travelers can also bring them along on certain boat excursions, along coastal trails or on ferries.

In Stockholm, pet-friendly policies extend far beyond vacations. Dogs are allowed in many establishments and some everyday life venues. The capital’s vast natural spaces, notably Djurgården and Hagaparken, also allow for more frequent walks. The ferries serving part of the archipelago offer another way to discover the region without leaving your companion behind.

France Also Speeds Up Its Dog-Friendly Tourism

France is also developing an increasingly substantial offering for travelers accompanied by their animals. According to the 2026 Barometer of dog travel published by DodoDog, more than 63,000 French accommodations now accept dogs, roughly one in three establishments.

The Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region leads with more than 10,000 pet-friendly accommodations. From the Côte d’Azur to the outskirts of Marseille, the coastline thus provides an extra selling point to attract owners who want to travel with their companion. The possibilities for walks and outdoor activities also strengthen the region’s appeal.

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes ranks second, with more than 9,000 accommodations welcoming dogs. Mountain destinations, including Chamonix, Tignes and Les Menuires, particularly benefit from this shift: hiking and outdoor activities allow owners not to give up their travel habits when they travel with their pet.

However, this trend requires ahead-of-time preparation. Since 2026, to travel within the European Union with a dog or a cat, the European Pet Passport is mandatory. Issued by a veterinarian, this official document allows you to attest the animal’s identification and its rabies vaccination. The health record, on the other hand, does not suffice to replace it during European travel.