Key Takeaways
- Canadians can expect to save big on flights to Asia in 2026, with an overall 10 per cent drop in airfare
- Europe is the number one trending destination for Canadians, with a 24 per cent increase in regional interest overall
- Berlin and Milan are the top trending destinations in Europe, offering culture, strong value, and expanding flight connectivity
- Domestic flight interest in Canada is up 12 per cent in 2026, with prices remaining flat
- The most affordable international destinations for Canadians in 2026 include George Town, Cayman Islands, Nassau, Bahamas, and Cancún, Mexico
Introduction to 2026 Travel Trends
Canadians who are looking to save big on their vacations in 2026 may want to look into destinations experiencing significant price drops in flights from Canada. Travel search engine Kayak released its top travel trends in Canada for 2026, revealing emerging hotspots for Canadian jetsetters. According to the travel site, Canadian flight interest for travel in 2026 is up six per cent compared to 2025. This increase in interest is likely due to the growing demand for travel and the availability of more affordable flights.
Europe as a Trending Destination
After analyzing flight searches, Kayak found that Europe is the number one trending destination for Canadians. According to its analysis, there’s a 24 per cent increase in regional interest overall for destinations in Europe. This trend is not surprising, given the rich history, culture, and natural beauty that Europe has to offer. However, the biggest story in 2026 isn’t the traditional European cities like Paris or London, but rather the rise of next-wave European cities that offer culture, strong value, and expanding flight connectivity. Seven of Canada’s top trending destinations for 2026 are in Europe, with two cities outpacing others in interest: Berlin and Milan.
The Rise of Berlin and Milan
Berlin and Milan are the top trending destinations in Europe, representing a shift toward more design-forward, culture-rich itineraries that go beyond the traditional Western Europe circuit. The travel company says easier access to these cities, thanks to added routes between Toronto and Berlin in 2025, has contributed to the rise in interest. These cities offer a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment, making them attractive destinations for Canadian travelers. With the increase in flight connectivity, Canadians can now explore these cities without breaking the bank.
Saving Big on Flights to Asia
If you’ve been wanting to go on a trip to Asia, next year is your chance to save big on flights from Canada. According to Kayak, Asia is where Canadians will see the biggest win in 2026, with an overall 10 per cent drop in airfare. This drop in airfare makes Asia an attractive destination for value-driven travelers. With the beautiful beaches of Thailand, the delicious food in China, and the rich culture of Japan, Asia has something to offer for every kind of traveler.
Domestic Travel Trends
While international travel is trending, Kayak also found that Canadians are feeling extra patriotic, with domestic flight interest up 12 per cent in 2026 compared to 2025. It adds that prices for flights within Canada remain flat. This trend is likely due to the growing demand for domestic travel and the availability of more affordable flights within Canada. With the average airfare for a round-trip economy ticket within Canada being around $357, domestic travel is an attractive option for Canadians who want to explore their own country.
Most Affordable International Destinations
Lastly, but certainly not least, Kayak also revealed the most affordable international destinations in 2026 for Canadians who want to travel on a budget. George Town, Cayman Islands, took the top spot with an average airfare of $674, followed by Nassau, Bahamas ($721) and Cancún, Mexico ($724). These destinations offer a unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and entertainment, making them attractive options for budget-conscious travelers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Canadians can expect to save big on flights to Asia and Europe in 2026, with an overall 10 per cent drop in airfare to Asia and a 24 per cent increase in regional interest in Europe. Domestic travel is also trending, with a 12 per cent increase in domestic flight interest and flat prices. With the most affordable international destinations being George Town, Cayman Islands, Nassau, Bahamas, and Cancún, Mexico, Canadians have a wide range of options to choose from when planning their next vacation. Whether you’re looking to explore Europe, Asia, or Canada, 2026 is shaping up to be a great year for travel.