Published on
January 22, 2026
As the world of travel continues to evolve, Spain, Thailand, France, China, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, Portugal, and Malaysia have emerged as the top long weekend destinations for 2026. Travelers are increasingly looking for short getaways that offer the perfect balance of relaxation, culture, and adventure, all within a few days. These destinations have become the popular travel picks for those eager to make the most of their time off without the commitment of long vacations.
Spain continues to captivate travelers with its vibrant cities, like Barcelona, offering everything from art and history to beautiful beaches. Thailand, with Bangkok as its shining star, offers a perfect mix of modernity and tradition, where travelers can experience bustling markets and serene temples. Similarly, France—with its romantic allure in places like Nice—remains a beloved choice for short, luxurious escapes.
Across Asia, China and Hong Kong offer exciting urban adventures, while Singapore and South Korea provide unique cultural experiences that are perfect for a quick getaway. Portugal, with Lisbon, and Malaysia, with Kuala Lumpur, are equally attractive options, each offering a rich tapestry of local culture, cuisine, and scenic landscapes.
These destinations are reshaping how travelers approach long weekends, turning them into meaningful getaways rather than simple breaks. With budget-friendly options and easy access, these countries have become the go-to choices for those looking to maximize their time off. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, these places are ready to offer a variety of unforgettable experiences in just a few days.
The Rise of Short Getaways in Europe
Europe has emerged as a leading region for short vacations in recent years. Cities like Barcelona, Paris, London, and Lisbon have witnessed significant spikes in travel bookings, with travelers gravitating toward these destinations for long weekends. The allure of Europe lies in its diverse attractions, offering everything from historical landmarks and vibrant nightlife to world-class cuisine and cultural experiences.
In particular, cities such as Barcelona have become popular choices for those looking to enjoy a vibrant atmosphere in a short span of time. The city’s beaches, artistic heritage, and culinary delights provide ample opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in its offerings without the need for an extended stay. Similarly, Paris, with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, continues to attract those seeking an art, culture, and romance-filled experience, all while enjoying a relaxed pace during their long weekend trip.
European travelers are also increasingly opting for weekend getaways that combine sightseeing with relaxation, ensuring that the short duration of their holidays is used efficiently. The region’s well-connected transportation system, including budget airlines and high-speed trains, makes it easy for travelers to visit multiple cities or explore hidden gems within a short timeframe.
The Appeal of Short Trips in Asia
Across Asia, the popularity of short getaways has soared, with Bangkok, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Taipei among the top destinations for travelers seeking quick vacations. These cities are ideal for those who wish to immerse themselves in local culture, explore street food, and enjoy unique experiences, all within the span of just a few days.
Bangkok, for example, offers a dynamic mix of modernity and tradition, attracting travelers with its bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and historic temples. A short visit to the Thai capital allows tourists to enjoy both the cultural richness of the city and its luxurious hotels, making it the perfect destination for those seeking an exciting and balanced trip.
Similarly, Hong Kong remains a popular choice for travelers who are looking for a multicultural experience, with its blend of Eastern and Western influences, shopping hubs, and the stunning Victoria Harbour. For short travelers, Hong Kong Disneyland also provides a fun and family-friendly getaway. The city’s seamless transportation system ensures that visitors can easily access the major attractions during their brief stay.
Seoul and Taipei have similarly become go-to destinations for short vacations, with travelers flocking to these cities to indulge in their unique food scenes, vibrant street markets, and cultural landmarks. These cities are renowned for offering an immersive experience that fits perfectly within a long weekend, without requiring too much time or planning.
Domestic Travel: The Preference for Local Destinations
While international destinations remain highly sought-after, domestic travel has gained significant traction, particularly among travelers from China, Thailand, and the Philippines. In these countries, short domestic getaways have become the preferred option for those who seek an escape without venturing too far from home.
Cities like Chengdu, Bangkok, and Caticlan have experienced substantial growth in bookings, with travelers opting for local trips that provide a comfortable and affordable vacation experience. Chengdu, famous for its giant pandas and ancient architecture, offers a family-friendly environment that is both educational and fun. The city has become a favorite for domestic travelers from South and East Asia, especially during public holidays.
Meanwhile, Caticlan, home to the renowned Boracay Island, continues to attract visitors with its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a prime destination for those seeking relaxation. For Thai travelers, Bangkok remains a top choice for domestic tourism, where a quick escape allows them to enjoy both cultural experiences and urban excitement.
Concerts and Entertainment: A New Way to Travel
The rising trend of entertainment-based travel has also contributed to the popularity of short getaways. Major concerts, performances, and sporting events have become an essential part of the short trip experience, especially for travelers seeking quick, exciting activities. Events such as the Blackpink World Tour in Hong Kong, the SEVENTEEN World Tour in Singapore, and the Mayday #5525 Live Tour in Kuala Lumpur have attracted large crowds of international tourists, particularly those from China, the Philippines, and Singapore.
These events offer fans the opportunity to experience their favorite artists live while enjoying the vibrant culture and attractions of the host cities. The growing popularity of these entertainment tourism experiences further underscores the shift towards short but meaningful vacations, with travelers eager to immerse themselves in live performances and events as part of their getaway.
The Role of Trip.Planner in Travel Planning
For travelers looking to plan their next long weekend trip, tools like Trip.Planner from Trip.com Group are making the process easier than ever before. With just a few clicks, users can access personalized itineraries that include everything from flights and hotels to recommendations for top attractions. Whether traveling solo, with friends, or with family, Trip.Planner helps travelers design the perfect itinerary based on their preferences, time constraints, and travel goals.
By offering ready-made itineraries for various types of travelers—whether those seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural exploration—Trip.Planner is revolutionizing how people plan short getaways. The tool ensures that even the busiest travelers can quickly and easily organize their long weekend trips without the stress of last-minute planning.
Conclusion: A New Era of Travel
The evolving trend of long weekends as vacations has redefined how travelers approach their time off in 2026. With a 34% increase in bookings for short trips, it is evident that people are increasingly embracing quick yet meaningful getaways. Whether venturing to cities in Europe or exploring domestic destinations within Asia, travelers are maximizing their time off by exploring new places, attending major events, and experiencing local cultures—all within a short time frame. As Trip.Planner and similar tools continue to grow in popularity, the ability to plan a seamless and stress-free short vacation will only become easier, ensuring that long weekends remain a viable option for those looking to make the most of their holiday breaks.
