January 2, 2026, 3:58 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
A new year brings new rules—this also applies to vacations. 2026 holds several changes for travelers that may be pleasant, annoying, or simply new, depending on the destination. Here’s an overview of the most important changes in various countries worldwide.
Bulgaria
Starting in 2026, vacationers in Bulgaria can skip exchanging cash: The Black Sea country will adopt the euro as its official currency, replacing the current lev. This will make Bulgaria the 21st member of the eurozone. Croatia was the last country to introduce the euro in 2023.
Those who still have leva—the plural of lev—from previous trips have two options: Until the end of January 2026, payments can still be made in leva in Bulgaria. After that, they will lose their status as legal tender. Exchange into euros will remain possible at Bulgarian banks even after this deadline. However, in Germany, the exchange will no longer be offered starting in 2026.
United Kingdom
The electronic travel authorization ETA (“Electronic Travel Authorisation”) has been mandatory for all visa-free travelers to the United Kingdom since April 2025, but it has rarely been checked so far. This is set to change: According to the government in London, the system will be strictly enforced starting February 25. Airlines must ensure passengers have a valid ETA before boarding.
To give travelers time to adjust, London has so far refrained from strict controls. The ETA is linked to a valid passport, costs 16 pounds (about 18 euros), and is best applied for via the “UK ETA” app. It is valid for two years and allows multiple stays of up to 180 days each.
Italy
Compensation for Traffic Jams
Starting in June 2026, Italy plans to compensate drivers for long traffic jams on toll highways—but only if construction work is the cause. Refunds will not be available for accidents or extreme weather.
The traffic authority in Rome plans to compensate drivers if a journey on a route of up to 50 kilometers takes ten minutes longer than usual. For longer routes, compensation starts after a 15-minute delay. If the delay is at least three hours, the entire toll is refunded.
It is currently unclear whether foreign drivers will also receive this compensation. The ADAC points out that Italy is one of the most expensive countries in Europe regarding highway tolls.
Extended Entry Fee in Venice
Those planning to visit Venice in 2026 will have to pay an entry fee on significantly more days. The famous lagoon city will charge day tourists 10 euros on 60 days between early April and late July—an increase from 54 days in 2025 and only 29 days when it was introduced in 2024.
Early birds can get the ticket for five euros if purchased at least three days in advance. Overnight guests are exempt from the entry fee; they pay a separate tourist tax instead.
Trevi Fountain Charges Entry
In Rome, the Trevi Fountain will charge tourists a two-euro entry fee starting January 7 (TRAVELBOOK reported). Despite the fee, there should still be enough change left—after all, it’s tradition to toss a coin into the fountain.
Germany
Train travelers can look forward to more convenience when purchasing tickets. Deutsche Bahn plans to offer tickets for all major rail companies in neighboring countries directly through its platforms “Bahn.de” and the “DB Navigator” app by the end of 2026.
The basis is a new standard called OSDM, which simplifies data exchange between rail companies and ticket sellers. Discount offers from foreign rail providers will also be available. Initial partners like Austria’s ÖBB are already involved.
Netherlands
Until now, the open-air museum Zaanse Schans north of Amsterdam was free to access—but that will change starting April 2026. Admission will cost 17.50 euros, beginning April 1. However, the start date could still change, as practical questions about implementation are currently unresolved.
Founded in 1963, the site in Zaanstad showcases historic windmills and wooden houses, complemented by museums. In 2024, more than 2.6 million visitors came. According to the municipality, the entrance fee is necessary to ensure the continued existence of Zaanse Schans. Critics in the city council point to increasing overtourism.
USA
A proposal by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is causing a stir: In the future, tourists may be required to disclose their social media content from the past five years when entering the country—including from TikTok, X, or Instagram.
According to the proposal, travelers would need to make their social media posts from the past five years accessible to border officials if the rule is implemented. This would affect all ESTA travelers—including many German tourists.
Already in 2025, the U.S. government under President Donald Trump caused uncertainty with political decisions. The situation is unlikely to get easier in 2026—the USA, Canada, and Mexico will host the FIFA World Cup.
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Spain
For vehicles registered in Spain, the so-called V16 warning light will become mandatory. This flashing light device is placed on the car roof in case of breakdowns or accidents and emits highly visible light—a safer alternative to the warning triangle. German drivers with their own cars can continue to use the warning triangle.
However, those renting a car in Spain in 2026 should ensure it has a special battery-powered warning light on board and get instructions on its use, advises the ADAC.
Georgia
Travelers planning to visit the Caucasus country of Georgia will need to provide proof of health and accident insurance upon entry starting January 1, 2026. The Foreign Office highlights this requirement.
The insurance must have a minimum coverage amount of 30,000 Georgian Lari (GEL)–equivalent to nearly 10,000 euros. Proof must be presented upon entry in English or Georgian, either as a printout or digitally. It must also be clear that the policy covers the period from entry to exit.