As Europeans mentally start packing their bags for 2026, Italy is once again high on their wish list. According to Jetcost, Italy is officially the second most searched country by Europeans to welcome the start of 2026, just behind Spain and well ahead of France, Portugal and the UK. Not bad for a country that already spends most of the year hosting everyone else’s holidays.
With flight searches at the end of 2025 up by 10%, staying home in the New Year is not an option, and Italy, with its mild winters, rich cultural calendar, good value hotels and legendary cuisine offers the perfect excuse to escape. The most searched cities are Milan, which is particularly popular with British and Portuguese travellers, while Rome remains everyone’s favourite. Venice continues to enchant with its timeless beauty, and Naples draws visitors with its energy and food.
Southern destinations are also shining. Sicily, especially Catania and Palermo, tempts travellers with lots of sunshine even in winter, while Cagliari keeps Sardinia firmly on the map. Tuscany appeals for citlies like Florence and Pisa, Bologna is high in the rankings, and cities such as Genoa, Bari, Turin and Bolzano complete the picture.
The message is clear: to start 2026 in style the top choice is Italy which can boast more beauty, culture and delicious food than anywhere else on Earth.
Pamela McCourt Francescone
Executive Editor
