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Brussels is stepping into the global art spotlight with the much-anticipated opening of Kanal—Centre Pompidou in November 2026. The vast space, transformed from a disused factory, will showcase exhibitions curated with Paris’s Centre Pompidou and feature live performances, film screenings, and a rooftop restaurant with city views. Around the city, restored landmarks like Place de la Bourse and the Dome Project reflect a cultural renaissance. Spring brings Art Brussels, drawing collectors worldwide, while the Zinneke Parade turns streets into a stage for theater and art. Stay at The Standard for a glimpse of the city’s new design identity.

Crowned the European Region of Gastronomy for 2026, Crete celebrates a culinary heritage dating back to ancient times. Visitors can sample local dishes like kochlioi (snails in garlic sauce) and askolimbi (golden thistle roots) during the Cretan Diet Festival in Rethymnon each July. Luxury resorts such as Ikos Kissamos and Niko Seaside Resort MGallery are redefining the island’s hospitality scene with Michelin-inspired menus and sea-view dining. With a new international airport opening in 2026, the island’s food, wine, and wellness tourism are set for a fresh chapter.

Islay, the whisky heart of Scotland, enters a new era with two major distilleries opening in 2026—Laggan Bay and Portintruan—adding to its legendary portfolio. Whisky enthusiasts can tour the island’s 12 distilleries, while Ardbeg House, a boutique retreat by LVMH, offers an upscale stay blending island heritage with luxury design. The island’s rugged beaches, warm pubs, and malt-scented air make it a must-visit for travelers seeking authentic Hebridean charm.

Known for its skyline and finance district, Frankfurt is now embracing its creative side as the World Design Capital 2026 under the theme “Design for Democracy.” Over 2,000 events, talks, and exhibitions will unfold across the city, from the riverbanks to the reborn Osthafen quarter. Visitors can explore architectural gems like Neue Altstadt and the upcoming Jewish Academy, celebrating cultural dialogue. Boutique hotels such as Kimpton Frankfurt and The Florentin promise fresh perspectives on this evolving German city.

Seville is becoming one of Spain’s hottest culinary destinations, led by new chefs blending innovation with Andalusian tradition. Restaurants like Casa Orzáez and Leartá are redefining the local dining scene, while bars like Naked and Famous and Tremenda Muela add flair to nightlife. The hospitality scene is booming too, with La Casa del Limonero and Querencia de Sevilla setting new standards for boutique stays. By 2027, Four Seasons Sevilla will join this growing list, solidifying Seville’s luxury appeal.​

In 2026, this Haute-Savoie town is redefining Alpine tourism with sustainable travel at its heart. The century-old Mont Blanc Express will launch new energy-efficient trains, connecting travelers seamlessly from Geneva to Chamonix via Saint-Gervais. The town’s Le Valléen gondola offers panoramic rides from the train station to ski lifts in just five minutes. The nearby Glaciorium will open as a climate center, showcasing how tourism and conservation can coexist in the French Alps.

Milan gears up to co-host the 2026 Winter Olympic Games alongside Cortina d’Ampezzo. With sustainability as a focus, 11 of the 13 venues will reuse existing infrastructure. The city’s Design Week in April will spotlight innovation under the theme “Be the Project.” Travelers can look forward to the openings of Rosewood Milan, Six Senses Brera, and Mett Milan, all promising fresh luxury experiences. Milan’s mix of sport, style, and sustainable design cements its place as one of Europe’s top destinations next year.

Situated just south of the Arctic Circle, Oulu will become the European Capital of Culture in 2026, focusing on sustainability and creativity. Under the theme “Cultural Climate Change,” visitors can explore art installations, digital innovation, and music festivals like Frozen People. The Climate Clock Art Trail will feature outdoor works by international artists, while sauna traditions and local Arctic cuisine offer a soothing counterbalance to the northern chill. Stay at Lapland Hotels Oulu for a true taste of Nordic warmth.

Bordering Austria and Italy, Slovenia’s Upper Carniola (Gorenjska) is a compact region of Alpine lakes and storybook villages. In 2026, the new Muzej Lah will open with over 800 European artworks, while Kneipp NaturHotel Snovik will introduce a high-altitude spa rooted in traditional wellness. The UNESCO-listed Passion Play will return to Škofja Loka, showcasing centuries-old European theater. With Michelin-starred restaurants, eco-hotels, and serene landscapes, this hidden gem is ready for its moment.