After a few years of cautious planning post-COVID, 2026 feels like a year when holidays are properly back on the agenda. For couples, that doesn't necessarily mean one single type of trip though. Some are keeping things simple with familiar beach breaks, while others are looking for something more active, cultural or scenic.
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Classic Escapes Still in Demand
For many couples, the traditional sun-and-sea holiday still has a strong pull. Spain, Greece and Portugal remain favourites because they're easy, reliable and familiar without feeling dull. There's comfort in knowing there'll be good weather, straightforward flights, plenty of accommodation and enough restaurants, beaches and day trips to suit different tastes.
All-inclusive packages are also continuing to appeal, particularly for couples who want to keep costs predictable. When flights, accommodation, food and transfers are wrapped into one booking, the holiday can feel less stressful before it's even begun. Nearby airport options make that even easier, with most British airports offering access to popular beach destinations including Spain, Greece, Portugal, Majorca and the Canaries.
City Breaks and Cultural Hotspots
Short city breaks are another popular choice, especially for couples juggling work, family commitments and limited annual leave. A long weekend in Paris, Rome, Amsterdam, Barcelona or Lisbon can feel like a proper reset without requiring a full week away.
The appeal is obvious. City breaks offer food, culture, architecture, galleries, shopping and nightlife in one compact trip. They're also easy to personalise. One couple might spend the weekend moving between museums and historic sites, while another might plan everything around restaurants and lazy neighbourhood wandering. Popular European city break destinations continue to include places such as Barcelona, Lisbon, Paris and Amsterdam, all of which remain strong options for culture-rich short breaks.
Cruises and Scenic Voyages
Cruises are also becoming a quieter part of the conversation for couples who want variety without constantly repacking. The appeal is convenience: one cabin, multiple stops, organised routes and the chance to see several places in one holiday.
For some, a Norway cruise is an interesting option, particularly for couples drawn to the natural beauty of its fjords, dramatic coastlines and northern scenery, not to mention the slower, more scenic style of travel. More broadly, cruises can suit couples who want a mix of relaxation, sightseeing and structure without having to plan every detail themselves.
Looking Ahead to New Adventures
The best thing about holiday planning in 2026 is the range. Couples don't have to choose between familiar and adventurous, restful and cultural, simple and special. They can revisit an old favourite, try a new destination or build a trip around the kind of experience they genuinely want to share.
Whether it's a beach resort, a city break, an activity holiday, scenic voyage or something completely unique, this year feels like a good one for making travel feel personal again.
