There are two types of travellers: those who stick to what they know, and those who are looking to experience a trip they’ll never forget in the summer of 2026.
Something is shifting. It’s no longer just about reaching a pretty spot, taking a photo, and heading home. These days, we’re looking for a real connection, a sense of exploration, and, above all, the freedom to choose our own path. We want to lose ourselves on backroads, discover nameless beaches, and pull over in that tiny village that wasn't even planned.
The summer of 2026 will be the season of the unscripted holiday. It’ll be about the spontaneous detours, the landscapes that catch you off guard, and the journeys that end up being the best part of the trip. In this new era of travel, there is one undisputed star: the car.
If that’s the kind of trip you're after, take note: these are the 10 destinations set to be the 'spot to be' in summer 2026.
Portugalis set to remain one of the top picks for summer 2026, and it’s no surprise why. It's affordable, there’s fantastic weather, and its stunning landscapes make it a safe bet for any holidaymaker. The Algarve, in the south of the country, is a prime example.
From Lagos to Tavira, the coastline is dotted with dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and tiny coves that are only accessible by road. The beauty of having a car is that, while driving through the Algarve, you can stumble upon brand-new spots along your route.
Beyond the coast, the inland areas are well worth a visit too. These quieter, less-travelled spots offer a different side to Portugal, one that is far more peaceful and authentic. It is, without a doubt, the perfect destination if you’re looking to combine relaxation, adventure, and total freedom.
Greece is about so much more than just its most famous islands. While Santorini and Mykonos remain popular, the trend for 2026 is moving towards exploring less crowded regions with a more authentic feel.
The Peloponnese, for instance, is ideal for a road trip. You can tour ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and traditional villages without the typical crowds of the more touristy islands. Crete, on the other hand, offers the perfect blend of nature, history, and world-class cuisine.
Travelling by car through Greece allows you to enjoy coastal drives, pull over at spectacular viewpoints, and discover beaches that are practically deserted.
Croatia has established itself as one of Europe’s most attractive destinations over recent years, and it is set to remain a firm favourite for 2026. The Adriatic coast, with its crystal-clear waters, is the perfect setting for a road trip full of contrasts.
The route between Dubrovnik and Split is one of the most breathtaking drives and is incredibly easy to navigate by car. Along the way, you’ll encounter medieval towns, island vistas, and beaches with such stunning turquoise waters that you’ll find yourself wanting to pull over again and again.
Beyond the coast, Croatia is home to spectacular national parks, such as the Plitvice Lakes. Having a car allows you to seamlessly combine the coastline with the lush interior, creating a diverse and well-rounded itinerary.
The South of France is a destination meant to be enjoyed at a slow pace. The Côte d'Azur and Provence are the perfect match for an unforgettable road trip.
The route connecting Nice to Saint-Tropez winds alongside a deep-blue Mediterranean Sea, dotted with coves, harbours, and seaside towns. However, you only need to drive a few miles inland to discover a different tempo: the true heart of Provence. Here, you can wander through lavender fields, vineyards, and charming stone-built villages.
Turkey is set to be one of the up-and-coming stars of summer 2026, largely thanks to its excellent value for money. The Turkish Riviera, also known as the Turquoise Coast, is famous for its spectacular beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage.
Touring this region by car allows you to discover spots like Antalya, Kaş, or Fethiye, each with its own unique charm. It also makes it easy to combine lazy days on the beach with visits to ancient ruins and traditional markets.
Turkish cuisine is another major pull; having a car makes it easy to pull over at local restaurants off the main road. Here, you can escape the tourist crowds and enjoy a far more authentic experience.
Switzerlandis another essential destination for summer 2026, especially if you’re looking to escape the heat and soak up the mountain scenery. With its mix of lakes and villages, the country offers the perfect backdrop for a different kind of road trip.
Touring Switzerland by car allows you to link iconic spots like Zermatt, Interlaken, and Lucerne, while exploring some of the most spectacular mountain passes in Europe.
Beyond the famous landmarks, the real charm lies in discovering tiny Alpine villages, pulling over at natural viewpoints, or making spontaneous stops beside hidden lakes.
Iceland is another fantastic location for those looking to escape the heat this summer. It offers the chance to experience incredible landscapes and a raw, natural beauty that you simply won't find anywhere else on Earth.
The famous Ring Road circles the island, connecting some of the most spectacular scenery on the planet. Because of this, hiring a car is by far the best way to get around and will make your trip much more comfortable.
Waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers, and black sand beaches make for a truly unique setting. Plus, the Midnight Sunphenomenon means you’ll have endless daylight, perfect for making the most of every single mile of your journey.
In Iceland, a car isn’t just an optional extra; it’s a necessity. It allows you to reach those spots further out and experience the country to the fullest, without being tied to bus schedules or group tour restrictions.
Ireland is one of those destinations that is best discovered as you go, without any rush and with your eyes firmly on the road. The island boasts a wild natural beauty, beautiful roads, and a laid-back atmosphere that invites you to explore it mile by mile.
Its roads wind through lush fields, over dramatic cliffs, and through charming little villages. The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most impressive coastal routes in Europe. Stretching over 2,500 kilometres, it offers breathtaking ocean views and the chance to discover spots that are less known.
You can’t talk about road trips without mentioning theUnited States. It is the bucket-list destination for anyone dreaming of hitting the open road and discovering iconic landscapes.
From the West Coast, with California and its stunning national parks, to the legendary Route 66, the options are endless. Every state offers something different, allowing you to create a journey that is entirely your own.
A car is essential to make the most of this experience. It allows you to cover vast distances, pull over at one-of-a-kind spots, and feel that true sense of freedom that defines this kind of travel.
Canada is known for its great outdoors. Its national parks, towering mountains, and vast lakes create the perfect backdrop for a road trip.
The route through the Rockies, between Banff and J asper, is one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. Here, every stop-off offers a new postcard-perfect view, with landscapes that almost seem too beautiful to be real.
Opting for a road trip offers clear advantages over other types of transport:
Ultimate freedom to design your own itinerary
Access to spots off the beaten track
Greater comfort and convenience, especially for groups or families
The flexibility to play it by ear and change plans on road
In destinations such as Iceland, Canada, or the United States, a car isn’t just an optional extra, it’s a game-changer and a fundamental part of the adventure.
The summer of 2026 is the perfect time to go for something different: a trip where the journey itself is as important as the destination.
Planning ahead and choosing the right way to get around will make all the difference. That’s where a comparison site like CarJet comes in; it allows you to find the ideal car at the best possible price, tailored to whichever destination you choose.
Now, there’s only one thing left to do: pick your route… and let the adventure begin.
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