Authentic, slower travel set to define 2026 tourism trends

Travellers in 2026 will increasingly seek slower, more immersive holidays across Spain, Italy and North Africa – a shift that may influence risk profiles and product demand for travel insurers, according to new insights from ferry booking platform Ferryhopper.

“In 2026, travellers will want to feel the satisfaction of kneading pasta dough in Italian kitchens, experience the thrill of whale-watching expeditions in Morocco, and connect with nature trekking Sicily’s volcanic trails… creating experiences that will stay with them long after they have returned home,” say the company’s travel experts. The regions, they add, offer “the perfect mix of craft heritage… culinary traditions… and biodiverse ecosystems ideal for responsible wildlife encounters”.

Five trends are expected to dominate the year, many of which involve outdoor activities, physical exertion, and remote locations – factors relevant to insurers assessing potential exposure.

Hiking, cycling, and walking holidays continue to surge, fuelled by slow-tourism demand and social media visibility. Mediterranean routes such as Spain’s Cami de Ronda and Italy’s Alta Via are attracting travellers seeking “multi-day journeys… that slow travellers down and strengthen their connection to the place”. These activities may require insurers to monitor risks linked to altitude, terrain, and emergency evacuation access.

Boat-based travel is also rising, with scenic ferry routes and small-vessel excursions gaining popularity for their affordability and sustainability. “Travellers are increasingly choosing scenic ferry routes… for their slower-paced charm,” Ferryhopper noted. Growth in micro-cruises and sailboat island-hopping may prompt increased demand for marine-related cover and delay protection.

In wildlife travel, a shift toward ethical, expert-guided experiences is drawing younger demographics. Activities such as dolphin tracking and desert safaris may carry variable risk levels, though the trend emphasises conservation-led, regulated encounters.

Interest in food and wine tourism is evolving toward hands-on workshops and “skill-building” culinary experiences, while solar eclipse travel is expected to spike ahead of the 12 August 2026 total eclipse visible across northern Spain.

“The most memorable experiences… happen when travellers slow down, immerse with the community, and choose activities that… build core memories,” Ferryhopper concluded.

Holafly’s Global eSIM & Travel Report 2025–2026 highlights shifting international travel patterns and reveals the destinations that drew the highest volumes of travellers this year.