October 19, 2026, 12:48 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Crowded hotspots, packed beaches, and high hotel prices don’t have to be part of your vacation. If you’re looking to discover new travel destinations in 2027, you’ll find alternatives to the classic tourist magnets, from the mountains of Kyrgyzstan to Europe’s lesser-known cities and secluded Atlantic bays. However, some of these might soon become much more popular.
The flight search engine Skyscanner analyzed search queries on its platform and identified destinations whose popularity has noticeably increased within a year. These eight travel destinations are among them.
Bishkek: Kyrgyzstan’s Capital Amidst Majestic Mountains
If you prefer mountains over classic beach lounging on vacation, Kyrgyzstan might be the right choice. In the capital, Bishkek, Soviet-influenced architecture and traditional markets meet a young café scene. Behind them rise the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan.
Insider tip: South of the capital lies the Ala-Archa National Park. It offers a great introduction for travelers wanting to explore the mountain world of the Tian Shan.
Getting there: The journey usually involves a layover in Istanbul and takes about eight to twelve hours. Flights cost approximately 300 to 600 euros. A double room costs about 35 to 70 euros per night.
Bratislava: City Trip as an Alternative to Vienna
Only about 60 kilometers separate Bratislava from Vienna. While the Austrian capital is one of Europe’s established city travel destinations, Bratislava is much less frequently on the bucket list. Yet, the Slovak capital offers historic alleys, cozy cafés, and a castle overlooking the Danube.
Insider tip: The Bunker B-S 4 “Lány” offers a glimpse into a largely unknown piece of military history that rarely appears in classic city travel programs.
Getting there: The flight takes about one to one and a half hours, with prices ranging from 50 to 180 euros. Alternatively, you can fly to Vienna and then take a train to Bratislava. A double room costs approximately 70 to 120 euros per night.
Brașov: Medieval Old Town at the Edge of the Carpathians
Transylvania is mainly associated with Dracula, mysterious castles, and dark forests. Brașov, known as Kronstadt in German, offers a different perspective on the Romanian region. Against an impressive mountain backdrop, an old town with colorful facades stretches out. The surrounding area boasts forests, hiking trails, and historic castles.
Insider tip: In the Piatra Craiului National Park, clear views offer expansive vistas over the Carpathians.
Getting there: Depending on the connection, you can fly to Brașov, Bucharest, or Sibiu. The flight takes about two to three hours. From Bucharest, you can continue the journey by train or car. The trip costs approximately 100 to 250 euros. Double rooms are available for about 50 to 90 euros per night.
Asturias: Green Spain Between the Atlantic and Mountains
Spain can be different: In the north of the country, Asturias combines rugged Atlantic coasts with mountains and small villages. The region is known for its cheese, fish, and hearty stews.
Insider tip: Not far from Cudillero lies Playa del Silencio. Steep cliffs frame the spectacular bay with turquoise water.
Getting there: Flights to Asturias Airport near Oviedo take about two and a half to three hours and cost approximately 180 to 350 euros. A double room costs around 70 to 120 euros per night.
São Vicente: Cape Verde Beyond the Major Beach Destinations
When thinking of Cape Verde, many travelers first think of the long sandy beaches of Sal and Boa Vista. São Vicente shows a different side of the island nation. The volcanically shaped island is especially known for its music scene and the port city of Mindelo.
Insider tip: A trip leads to the protected bay of Baía das Gatas with its natural seawater pool. In the evening, small venues in Mindelo offer live music.
Getting there: The journey usually goes through Lisbon and takes about eight to twelve hours. Flights cost approximately 350 to 800 euros. A double room is available for around 60 to 110 euros per night.
Trapani: Sicily Between Baroque and Salt Pans
Palermo and Taormina are among the well-known spots in Sicily. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, you’ll find an alternative in the west of the Italian island with Trapani. The port city combines baroque facades and fish restaurants with wide sea views.
Insider tip: A trip to the salt pans of Nubia and Paceco is especially worthwhile at sunset. Depending on the light, the water basins appear pink, orange, or silvery.
Getting there: The flight takes about two to three hours and costs approximately 100 to 300 euros. A double room costs around 70 to 130 euros per night.
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Tashkent: Modern Side of the Historic Silk Road
For many travelers to Uzbekistan, Tashkent is merely the gateway to famous Silk Road cities like Samarkand and Bukhara. But the capital itself also offers attractions. Historical mosques and bazaars stand alongside wide boulevards and modern architecture.
Insider tip: Even a ride on the metro becomes a sightseeing tour. Many stations feature individual designs with marble, mosaics, or elaborate chandeliers.
Getting there: Direct flights from Frankfurt take about six to seven hours. Prices range from approximately 400 to 650 euros. Double rooms cost about 40 to 85 euros per night.
Rabat: Morocco’s Quieter Metropolis on the Atlantic
Marrakech is one of Morocco’s most famous travel destinations. The capital, Rabat, is much less often in the spotlight. It combines historical buildings and modern districts with a long Atlantic coastline.
Insider tip: The blue-and-white alleys of the Kasbah of the Udayas are worth a visit. Behind the historic walls are small courtyards, along with views of the Atlantic.
Getting there: The journey takes about three and a half to five hours. Flights cost approximately 150 to 350 euros. A double room costs around 50 to 100 euros per night.