Published on
December 31, 2025
In a move set to shape the travel landscape for 2026, Ryanair has unveiled its top 5 destinations for the upcoming year: Bratislava, Tirana, Pescara, Rabat, and Gdańsk. With these cities seeing a massive surge in new flights, boosted routes, and expanded airport services, Ryanair is capitalising on the growing demand for destinations in Slovakia, Albania, Italy, Morocco, and Poland, promising new adventures for travellers and a marked tourism boost for the countries they represent.
Bratislava: Slovakia’s Hidden Gem Takes Centre Stage
Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, is quickly becoming one of Ryanair’s most anticipated destinations for 2026. With the airline significantly increasing capacity, travellers can expect more frequent flights and seamless connections to cities across Europe. The city’s proximity to the Austrian and Hungarian borders makes it a fantastic gateway for visitors looking to explore Central Europe on a budget.
Ryanair’s expanded schedule includes 33 routes, connecting Bratislava with key destinations like Barcelona, Vienna, and Warsaw, a move that will greatly increase the accessibility of Slovakia’s capital. As part of this push, Slovakia Tourism is investing heavily in promoting Bratislava’s rich historical sites, from the iconic Bratislava Castle to the Old Town’s cobbled streets. The city’s low cost of living also makes it an attractive option for long-term travellers and business visitors alike.
Bratislava’s Tourism Potential
Beyond its historical landmarks, Bratislava is famous for its lively cultural scene, thriving music festivals, and scenic riverside vistas. Slovakia Travel underscores the city as a place where old meets new, blending centuries of culture with modern charm. In 2026, more tourists are likely to discover the blend of traditional Slovak cuisine, beautiful landscape views, and a vibrant local scene, making it an essential stop on any European itinerary.
Tirana: Albania’s Thriving Capital Gets a Boost
Tirana, Albania’s dynamic capital, is set to take flight in 2026 thanks to Ryanair’s new aircraft base and expanded services. This strategic expansion includes 33 new routes, directly linking Tirana to popular European cities. As the gateway to the beautiful Albanian Riviera and its rich archaeological sites, Tirana offers a mix of Mediterranean charm, historical significance, and a rapidly growing economy.
The Albanian government’s tourism strategy, highlighted by the Albanian National Tourism Agency, aligns perfectly with Ryanair’s goals, seeking to position the city as a must‑visit destination for adventurous travellers. With beautiful neighbourhoods that mix Ottoman, Italian, and modern influences, Tirana’s appeal lies in its blend of cultural diversity and artistic flair.
Albanian Charm and Affordability
Travellers can immerse themselves in Tirana’s colourful streets, grand architecture, and charming cafés, while enjoying affordable prices compared to other European capitals. Tirana is also becoming an increasingly popular city for digital nomads, with many attracted by its affordable living costs and high-speed internet. The city’s increasing prominence in Ryanair’s network will likely contribute to a flourishing tourism industry in the capital, while giving visitors access to the country’s pristine beaches and mountain landscapes.
Pescara: Italy’s Coastal Paradise Awaits
Located on Italy’s Adriatic coast, Pescara is now a key destination for travellers, especially with Ryanair’s new flight routes offering more connections between European cities. As an often-overlooked gem in Italy, Pescara is a city where visitors can enjoy both the Mediterranean climate and Italian culture in one package. With 21 routes added to Ryanair’s 2026 schedule, Pescara is set to capture the attention of tourists seeking a balance of relaxation, culture, and adventure.
Pescara is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant local markets, and unique art galleries, making it an attractive choice for both city-break seekers and those wishing to explore the quieter side of Italy. The Abruzzo region offers much more to discover, with mountains, national parks, and traditional villages just a short drive away.
Italian Coastal Experience
Ryanair’s emphasis on making Pescara more accessible ensures that this coastal city will attract more sun-seekers, culture enthusiasts, and even food lovers drawn to Italy’s acclaimed cuisine. The region’s seafood, local wines, and stunning views make it an irresistible choice for visitors looking to combine relaxation with exploration.
Rabat: Morocco’s Coastal Charm and Cultural Richness
Rabat, Morocco’s capital, is experiencing a surge in tourism, thanks to Ryanair’s commitment to expanding its services in the region. The new aircraft base in Rabat will lead to 20 routes, creating more access to this historic and coastal city from major European hubs. Known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient medinas, and the majestic Hassan Tower, Rabat blends Morocco’s rich past with modern appeal.
Morocco’s Tourism Ministry has been making strides in promoting cities like Rabat as top destinations for cultural and eco-tourism. The city’s position along the Atlantic coast provides a relaxing atmosphere for those looking to unwind and explore a different side of Morocco beyond the bustling streets of Marrakech and Casablanca.
A Gateway to North African Adventures
Rabat serves as the perfect base for exploring both the vibrant cultural centres of Morocco and the desert landscapes of the country’s interior. Its proximity to world-class beaches, ancient ruins, and mountain ranges means it’s becoming a hub for adventure tourists. The Moroccan government’s ongoing efforts to encourage more European visitors through affordable air travel are further boosted by Ryanair’s growing network, promising a flourishing future for the destination.
Gdańsk: Poland’s Baltic Beauty Gains Popularity
Gdańsk, a hidden treasure on the Baltic Sea in Poland, is a city steeped in maritime history and architectural beauty. Ryanair’s expanded flights in 2026, including 43 routes, will bring this stunning city into the spotlight for travellers across Europe. Known for its colourful Old Town, beautiful waterfront, and history of shipbuilding, Gdańsk is now firmly positioned as one of Europe’s rising tourism destinations.
Poland’s official tourism website promotes the city’s historic significance, highlighted by the Gdańsk Shipyard, where the Solidarity movement was born, as well as its iconic landmarks like the Westerplatte Memorial. This history, combined with a thriving cultural scene and Baltic coastline, ensures that Gdańsk will continue to capture the imagination of European and international visitors.
The Rise of Gdańsk in European Travel
The Polish Ministry of Sport and Tourism underscores Gdańsk as a key component of Poland’s regional tourism efforts. With its blend of ancient and modern, visitors can explore medieval architecture, contemporary art galleries, and vibrant street festivals. Ryanair’s expansion of routes into this historic city plays a vital role in boosting Poland’s position on the European tourism map for 2026.
Conclusion: The Future of European and North African Travel
Ryanair’s announcement of its top five destinations for 2026—Bratislava, Tirana, Pescara, Rabat, and Gdańsk—offers a clear insight into the shifting dynamics of travel. These cities, rich in cultural heritage and modern amenities, are seeing their tourism profiles rise as airlines and governments invest in accessibility and promotion. The airline’s extensive route expansions will undoubtedly contribute to increased visitation to these cities, showcasing a growing demand for diverse, affordable, and immersive travel experiences across Europe and North Africa.
Whether you’re seeking historical exploration, coastal relaxation, or city breaks, these destinations are set to provide travellers with exciting new options, thanks to Ryanair’s expanding flight offerings and each destination’s growing tourism infrastructure.
Image: Ryanair
