Discover the top holiday destinations for 2026, featuring must-visit spots and essential travel tips. Start planning your unforgettable getaway today!
Top holiday destinations in 2026: there travellers should go
As 2026 approaches, Estonian and Baltic travellers have more flight options and exciting destinations than ever before. With so many places to choose from, planning your next adventure can be both thrilling and overwhelming.
With airBaltic launching direct flights from Tallinn to Athens, Hamburg, and Vienna for summer 2026, alongside numerous new routes from Tallinn Airport including Venice, Krakow, and Düsseldorf, the year ahead promises a rise in exceptional travel opportunities and destination popularity.
Whether you’re seeking sun-soaked Mediterranean beaches, cultural city breaks, wellness retreats, or sustainable adventures, this comprehensive guide explores the best destinations for Estonians in 2026.
Understanding the 2026 travel landscape
The travel industry is experiencing a profound transformation driven by sustainability, authentic experiences, and climate-conscious planning.
For Estonian and Baltic travellers, this creates unique opportunities to explore destinations that align with modern values whilst taking advantage of unprecedented connectivity from Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius.
There is a growing interest among Estonian and Baltic travelers in sustainable and authentic travel experiences, shaping the top holiday destinations for 2026.
Unprecedented flight connectivity from the Baltics
airBaltic is significantly expanding its network for 2026, operating nearly 110 routes across the Baltic states—a 7% increase from 2025. The airline’s winter 2025-2026 schedule features over 90 direct routes, whilst summer 2026 brings six new destinations and increased frequencies on nearly 30 existing routes.
New summer 2026 routes from Tallinn:
Athens, Greece (twice weekly)
Hamburg, Germany (twice weekly)
Vienna, Austria (twice weekly)
Düsseldorf, Germany with Eurowings (twice weekly)
Copenhagen increased to 7 weekly flights during peak season
Munich increased to 6 weekly flights
Winter 2025-2026 additions from Tallinn:
Krakow, Poland with Wizz Air (three times weekly)
Venice, Italy with Wizz Air (twice weekly)
Daily flights to Vilnius starting 12 December
Christmas-season flights to Manchester, Edinburgh, and Birmingham with Jet2
Additionally, Saaremaa will gain a seasonal connection to Helsinki with Finnair, operating three times weekly between Kuressaare and the Finnish capital.
What Estonian travellers are booking
According to airBaltic’s booking data, the most popular destinations from Tallinn this winter include Amsterdam, Barcelona, Brussels, Copenhagen, Munich, and Vilnius. These choices reflect a mix of cultural city breaks, business travel, and easy connections to global destinations through major European hubs.
Key travel trends shaping 2026
Understanding global travel trends helps Estonian travellers make informed decisions about where and when to go. The 2026 travel landscape is defined by several key movements:
When planning your next trip in 2026, consider how these trends can help you choose the perfect destination.
Shoulder-season travel gains momentum
73% of travel advisors report clients opting for off-peak escapes, driven by a desire to sidestep overtourism. For Estonian travellers, this means exploring Italy in autumn, visiting Greek islands in May or September, or discovering Tunisia’s archaeological treasures outside summer’s peak heat.
Travelling during shoulder seasons offers multiple advantages:
Lower accommodation costs (typically 20-40% less than peak season)
Shorter queues at popular attractions
More authentic local experiences
Pleasant weather without extreme heat
Better availability at popular restaurants and hotels
With Tallinn’s new routes to Athens and Vienna operating from late March through October, Estonian travellers can perfectly time visits to avoid summer crowds whilst still enjoying warm, sunny weather.
Wellness and longevity tourism
Wellness has emerged as a leading travel motivator for 2026, with travellers viewing these experiences as investments in healthier futures. Mental health, emotional wellbeing, and longevity programmes are central to this trend.
For Estonian travellers, exciting wellness destinations include:
Eha, Hiiumaa, Estonia: Opening summer 2026, this remote retreat on Hiiumaa Island offers immersive seasonal programmes that align body, mind, and spirit with nature’s rhythm. Farm-to-table menus from Green Michelin Star chef Peeter Pihel make this a luxury wellness escape on Estonia’s doorstep.
COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali: Whilst requiring longer travel, this renowned wellness resort offers six-night signature retreats including a Longevity Retreat inspired by Ayurvedic medicine.
Cyprus wellness options: With accessible connections via major hubs, Cyprus offers year-round sun alongside world-class wellness facilities.
Hot springs are also a major draw in wellness tourism, with destinations like Iceland and Hungary offering natural geothermal experiences that combine relaxation and scenic beauty.
Solo travel continues to surge
Women account for 68% of solo luxury travellers, with safety and security priorities for 62% of luxury travellers. For Estonian solo adventurers, this trend opens exciting possibilities.
Solo travel not only enriches your life but also creates lasting memories, offering unique opportunities for personal growth and unforgettable experiences.
airBaltic’s expanded network makes solo travel from Estonia increasingly practical, with frequent flights to safe, well-connected cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Munich, and Vienna—all cities with strong safety records and excellent infrastructure for independent travellers.
Climate-conscious and sustainable travel
Sustainability is no longer optional—it’s becoming central to travel decisions. Estonian travellers, who already demonstrate environmental awareness domestically, are extending these values to their holiday choices. This means selecting destinations that manage tourism sustainably, travelling during off-peak periods to reduce overcrowding, and choosing longer stays over multiple short trips.
Eco lodges are also gaining popularity as a sustainable accommodation option, offering environmentally conscious travelers luxurious stays that are integrated into natural settings.
Estonian outbound travel: understanding the market
Estonian residents are enthusiastic travellers, with outbound tourism rebounding strongly post-pandemic. Over the last few years, Estonians have shown significant growth in outbound tourism, making over a million overnight trips abroad in 2022—a 90% increase from 2021—with continued growth into 2023 and 2024.
Key travel spending patterns
Average spending per outbound trip exceeds €1,000, with transport costs averaging around €380 and accommodation around €342—together comprising nearly two-thirds of total spending. These figures have increased significantly compared to pre-pandemic levels, primarily due to higher transport and accommodation costs.
Trip characteristics:
Domestic trips: Often short (1-3 nights)
Outbound trips: Typically longer (4-7 nights)
Purpose: Holidays dominate, with business travel and visiting friends/relatives also significant
Top destinations: Finland, Latvia, Turkey, and Italy lead Estonian preferences
Travelers are especially willing to spend more when visiting a country that is on their bucket list, making these top holiday destinations 2026 even more appealing for those seeking unique experiences.
This data reveals an important insight: whilst Estonians travel frequently to nearby destinations like Finland and Latvia for short breaks, they’re willing to invest in longer, more distant holidays when the destination justifies the expense.
Top destinations for Estonian travellers in 2026
Based on new flight routes, global travel trends, and Estonian preferences, here are some of the best places for Estonian travelers to visit in 2026:
Greece: Athens and the islands
With new direct flights from Tallinn to Athens operating twice weekly from summer 2026, Greece becomes significantly more accessible for Estonian travellers. Athens serves as an excellent gateway to the Greek islands and mainland attractions.
Why visit in 2026:
Direct connectivity eliminates the need for connections
Shoulder-season travel (April-May, September-October) offers temperatures of 20-25°C—perfect for sightseeing without summer’s 35°C+ heat
Greece remains one of Virtuoso’s top global destinations
Rich history, stunning beaches, and exceptional cuisine at reasonable prices
Budget considerations: A week-long trip to Greece typically costs €800-1,200 per person (excluding flights), with shoulder-season prices 20-30% lower than summer peaks. Flight costs from Tallinn to Athens with airBaltic start around €150-250 return.
Don’t miss:
Santorini’s iconic sunsets, fairy tale atmosphere, and volcanic beaches—this island is famous for its charming villages and beautiful beaches, making it a dream destination for many travelers. Read MoneyHub’s complete Santorini guide
Athens’ ancient wonders including the Acropolis and Parthenon
Island-hopping to Mykonos, Crete, or Rhodes
Authentic tavernas in residential neighbourhoods away from tourist areas
Austria: Vienna’s vibrant culture and cultural renaissance
Vienna joins Tallinn’s direct route network in summer 2026, opening Central Europe’s cultural heart to Estonian travellers. The Austrian capital excels during shoulder seasons, when concert halls, museums, and coffee houses are accessible without overwhelming crowds.
Why visit in 2026:
World-class museums (Belvedere, Kunsthistorisches Museum) and renowned art institutions showcasing both classical and contemporary art
Imperial palaces (Schönbrunn, Hofburg)
Legendary coffeehouse culture
Rich culture with deep historical roots, vibrant traditions, and a thriving art scene
Excellent base for exploring Central Europe
Safe, clean, and highly walkable
Budget considerations: Vienna is mid-range by Western European standards. Expect to spend €100-150 daily per person on accommodation, meals, and attractions. Museums offer combined tickets and many have free entry days.
Travel tip: The Vienna Card provides unlimited public transport plus discounts at attractions—excellent value for 2-3 day visits.
Germany: Hamburg’s maritime charm
Hamburg’s new direct connection from Tallinn links Estonia to Germany’s second-largest city and Europe’s largest port. Hamburg combines maritime heritage with cutting-edge architecture and a vibrant cultural scene.
Why visit in 2026:
Germany’s greenest major city, with more bridges than Venice
Spectacular Elbphilharmonie concert hall
Historic Speicherstadt warehouse district (UNESCO World Heritage)
Strong business connections with Baltic states
Gateway to northern Germany and Scandinavia
Experience Hamburg’s vibrant culture and dynamic arts scene, from world-class galleries to energetic music venues
Budget considerations: Similar to Vienna in pricing, Hamburg offers excellent value compared to Munich or Berlin. Budget €100-140 daily per person, with significant savings possible using day tickets for public transport.
Italy: Venice and beyond
Wizz Air’s new twice-weekly route from Tallinn to Venice makes Italy’s most romantic city more accessible than ever. As a budget carrier, Wizz Air offers competitive fares that make Venice attractive even for shorter breaks. Many travelers wait years for the chance to experience Venice’s unique charm and iconic canals.
Why visit in 2026:
Venice during shoulder season (April-May, October) is magical—pleasant weather, manageable crowds
The city is famous for its landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and the Grand Canal, making it a must-see for history buffs.
Day trip access to Verona, Padua, and the Dolomites
Authentic Italian cuisine away from tourist traps
Excellent rail connections to other Italian cities
Budget considerations: Venice can be expensive, but strategic planning helps. Stay in Mestre (mainland) for 40-50% accommodation savings whilst enjoying 10-minute train access to Venice proper. Budget €80-120 daily per person with careful planning.
Alternative: Consider exploring Italy’s Amalfi Coast – MoneyHub’s comprehensive guide covers this stunning UNESCO-listed region in detail. The Amalfi Coast is a treasure trove of scenic beauty, charming villages, and breathtaking coastal views.
Poland: Krakow’s historical treasures
Wizz Air’s three-weekly service to Krakow opens one of Europe’s most historically significant cities to Estonian travellers. Krakow offers exceptional value alongside profound cultural experiences.
Why visit in 2026:
Remarkably preserved medieval old town (UNESCO World Heritage)
Sobering visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau (day trip)
Wieliczka Salt Mine (another UNESCO site)
Vibrant food scene at a fraction of Western European prices
Convenient base for exploring southern Poland
Budget considerations: Krakow is one of Europe’s best-value destinations. Budget €50-80 daily per person—substantially less than Western European alternatives. This affordability allows for longer stays or splurges on experiences.
Hungary: Budapest’s thermal elegance
Wizz Air’s new route to Budapest connects Estonia to one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals. Budapest’s combination of stunning architecture, thermal baths, and affordability makes it ideal for Estonian travellers.
Why visit in 2026:
Thermal baths (Széchenyi, Gellért) offer unique relaxation
Dramatic parliament building and Buda Castle
Ruin pubs in the Jewish Quarter
Danube River cruises
Excellent value for money
Budget considerations: Similar to Krakow, Budapest offers exceptional value. Budget €60-90 daily per person, with thermal bath entry costing just €20-25 for a full day’s relaxation.
Turkey: Antalya’s Mediterranean appeal
Turkey remains a top Estonian destination, and Antalya continues to deliver exceptional value. With airBaltic adding Antalya as a regular route (previously charter-only), access becomes more flexible.
Why visit in 2026:
Year-round sunshine with mild winters
All-inclusive resorts offering exceptional value
Ancient ruins (Perge, Aspendos)
Stunning coastline and beaches
Turkish hospitality and cuisine
Experience Antalya’s warm hospitality and stay at luxury resorts known for their premium amenities and service
Budget considerations: Antalya remains remarkably affordable. All-inclusive packages start from €600-900 per person per week, making it accessible for Estonian families and couples seeking value.
Read more:MoneyHub’s complete Tallinn to Antalya guide provides comprehensive information for Estonian travellers.
Portugal: Madeira’s year-round appeal
airBaltic’s winter route to Funchal, Madeira opens Portugal’s “floating garden” to Estonian travellers. This Atlantic island offers mild temperatures year-round, making it perfect for escaping Baltic winters.
Why visit in 2026:
Average winter temperatures of 16-20°C
Dramatic volcanic landscapes and botanical gardens
Stunning nature with lush forests and scenic coastlines
Excellent walking trails (levadas) and a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and canyoning
Portuguese cuisine and Madeira wine
Direct flights from Tallinn for the first time
Budget considerations: Madeira is mid-range for Portugal, with daily costs of €70-110 per person. The island’s year-round appeal means pricing remains relatively stable across seasons.
Spain: Tenerife and the Canary Islands
Popular with Estonian travellers, Tenerife offers year-round sunshine just 4-5 hours from Tallinn. The Canary Islands provide African warmth with European convenience.
Why visit in 2026:
Winter sunshine when Baltic weather is dark and cold
Diverse landscapes from beaches to volcanic peaks, including breathtaking landscapes that make Tenerife truly memorable
Family-friendly resorts and activities
Direct flights via multiple carriers
Excellent value for all-inclusive packages
Budget considerations: Similar to Antalya in pricing, with all-inclusive packages from €700-1,000 per person per week.
Read more:MoneyHub’s Tenerife holiday guide offers detailed planning advice for Estonian families.
Croatia: Istria’s hidden peninsula and national parks
Whilst Dubrovnik features in global destination lists, Croatia’s heart-shaped Istrian peninsula offers authentic experiences without overwhelming crowds. Accessible via Venice or by connecting through Zagreb, Istria rewards those seeking undiscovered Europe.
Why visit in 2026:
Quaint hilltop towns like Motovun and Grožnjan
Fresh truffles, oysters, and local wines
Roman ruins and Venetian architecture
Stunning Adriatic coastline
Cycle-friendly with scenic coastal trails
Discover Istria’s stunning landscapes, from rolling vineyards to dramatic coastlines, and enjoy the region’s renowned local food, celebrated for its fresh ingredients and authentic flavors.
Budget considerations: Istria is mid-range by Croatian standards. Budget €80-120 daily per person, with significant value in shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October).
Long-haul options from Estonia
Whilst European destinations dominate due to convenience, some Estonian travellers seek more distant adventures, with long-haul options including destinations in Asia.
Thailand: Phuket and beyond
Connected via major hubs, Thailand remains popular with Estonian winter travellers seeking tropical warmth and exceptional value.
Why visit in 2026:
Winter sunshine (November-March)
Remarkable value for money
World-class beaches and diving
Thai cuisine and hospitality, with great food and a rich culture to explore
Wellness retreats at affordable prices
Read more:MoneyHub’s Tallinn to Phuket guide covers everything Estonian travellers need to know.
Dubai: luxury and sun
Popular from all three Baltic capitals, Dubai offers winter sunshine, luxury shopping, and unique experiences. The city is renowned for its luxury resorts and vibrant city life, making it a top choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement. Direct flights from Riga and connections from Tallinn make this increasingly accessible.
Practical considerations for Estonian travellers
The EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
Implementation is scheduled for April 2026, affecting how non-EU citizens enter Europe. Estonian citizens travelling within the EU won’t be affected, but this system will impact travel to non-EU countries and could cause initial delays at border crossings. Plan extra time for border formalities, particularly in the system’s first months.
Travel insurance essentials
Given average trip costs exceeding €1,000 and rising healthcare expenses abroad, comprehensive travel insurance is essential for Estonian travellers. Quality policies should cover:
Medical emergencies and evacuation
Trip cancellation and interruption
Lost or delayed baggage
Personal liability
Adventure activities if planned
COVID-19 related coverage
Estonian residents can choose between single-trip and annual policies, with the latter offering better value for those making multiple trips. Compare providers carefully, as coverage and exclusions vary significantly.
Booking strategies for 2026
Book early for new routes: Tallinn’s new direct flights to Athens, Hamburg, and Vienna will likely see high demand initially. Book 3-6 months ahead for best availability and prices.
Consider budget carriers strategically: Wizz Air offers excellent fares but charges for everything beyond basic economy. Calculate total costs including baggage, seat selection, and airport transfers before booking.
Leverage shoulder seasons: With Estonian spending averaging €1,000+ per trip, travelling in April-May or September-October can reduce costs by 20-40% whilst offering better weather than peak summer for many destinations.
Use frequent connections: Amsterdam’s 19 weekly flights from Baltic capitals make it an excellent hub for worldwide connections via KLM’s network.
Make 2026 your best travel year
Estonian and Baltic travellers face an exceptional year ahead, with expanded flight networks, diverse destinations, and evolving travel trends creating unprecedented opportunities. Whether you’re drawn to Athens’ ancient wonders, Venice’s romantic canals, Krakow’s historical depth, or Madeira’s year-round gardens, direct connectivity from Tallinn, Riga, and Vilnius makes 2026 travel easier than ever.
With 2026 offering a wealth of unforgettable travel experiences, you can craft journeys that combine mountains, beaches, and cultural sites, all tailored to your personal preferences. With average outbound spending exceeding €1,000 per trip, Estonian travellers demonstrate commitment to quality experiences. By embracing shoulder-season travel, prioritising authentic experiences over overtouristed hotspots, and selecting destinations aligned with personal values, you can maximise value whilst minimising environmental impact.
Remember to secure appropriate travel insurance before departure, book popular routes early, and remain flexible with dates to capture the best deals. The world awaits—2026 is your year to explore it.
For more destination guides and travel tips tailored to Estonian travellers, explore MoneyHub’s travel section, including comprehensive guides to Santorini, the Amalfi Coast, Tenerife, Antalya, scam phone numbers to avoid while traveling, and Phuket.