Tourexpi
As one year ends and another begins, Ryanair has
turned its focus to 2026, identifying five destinations expected to stand out
across its network of more than 235 routes. The selection reflects shifting
travel patterns toward affordable city breaks, culturally rich capitals and
easily accessible coastal regions, supported by significant capacity growth and
new operational bases.
Bratislava: A Rising City Break in Central Europe
Slovakia’s capital is rapidly gaining ground as one of
Europe’s most dynamic short-break destinations. Medieval streets, sweeping
views from Bratislava Castle and a growing contemporary scene are drawing
increasing attention. In summer 2026, access will expand further as Ryanair
increases capacity by 70 percent, operating a record 33 routes to the city and
making Bratislava more reachable than ever for European travelers.
Tirana: Albania’s Capital Steps onto the European
Stage
Tirana’s colorful streets, lively café culture and
dramatic mountain backdrop have helped transform it into one of Southeast
Europe’s most talked-about capitals. A blend of Ottoman, Italian and modern
architecture surrounds Skanderbeg Square, while the Tirana Lake offers a
quieter counterpoint to the city’s energy. In April 2026, Ryanair will open a
new base in Tirana with three aircraft, serving 33 routes and up to 450 weekly
flights, significantly strengthening Albania’s air connectivity.
Pescara: Adriatic Coastline and Italian Heritage
Italy continues to rank among Europe’s most
sought-after destinations, and Pescara exemplifies its enduring appeal. Located
on the Adriatic coast, the city is known for long sandy beaches and as the
birthplace of poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. During summer 2026, Ryanair will
operate hundreds of flights across 21 routes, positioning Pescara as an
accessible gateway to Italy’s eastern seaboard under classic Adriatic summer
conditions.
Rabat: Tradition and Modernity in Morocco’s Capital
Morocco’s capital is set to gain new prominence in
2026 with the opening of a Ryanair base hosting two aircraft. The expansion
will grow Rabat’s route network to 20 destinations, linking the city more
closely with key European markets. Coastal views, refined architecture and a
vibrant cultural life define Rabat’s appeal, offering travelers a balanced
blend of historic depth and contemporary urban life.
Gdańsk: Baltic Character with Growing Connectivity
On Poland’s Baltic coast, Gdańsk is preparing for a
major boost in accessibility. Ryanair plans to operate a record 43 routes to
the city in 2026, reinforcing its role as a gateway to northern Poland. With
its reconstructed old town, riverside promenades and strong maritime heritage,
Gdańsk combines cultural discovery with a relaxed coastal atmosphere, appealing
to both city-break travelers and those seeking slower-paced escapes.
Together, the five destinations highlight Ryanair’s
strategic focus for 2026: expanding capacity in fast-growing cities,
strengthening regional hubs and opening new gateways for affordable travel
across Europe and beyond.
Image
Credit: © Ryanair
The most interesting news
Read the News

Travel technology at ITB Berlin 2026: AI and global innovation reshape the industry
With six fully booked Travel Tech halls, strong international participation and a new Travel Tech Track in the convention programme, ITB Berlin 2026 underscores its role as the world’s leading platform for travel technology and digital transformati
Read the News

Türkiye’s airline fleets expand significantly over five years
Driven by rising passenger demand and major airport investments, Türkiye’s airlines have expanded their fleets sharply since 2021, with Turkish Airlines accounting for the largest share at the end of 2025
Read the News

Emirates extends Chauffeur-Drive service in Japan to Narita and Kansai
Premium ground service now available at three major Japanese airports from February and March 2026
Read the News

Moxy Hotels brings a playful twist to the New Year with Sweet Moxy Fest
Limited-edition candy cocktails and interactive lobby experiences roll out across 10 Moxy Hotels in China
Read the News

DRV welcomes National Tourism Strategy as a clear signal for the travel industry
German cabinet sets priorities on competitiveness, cutting red tape and sustainable development
Read the News

Celebrity River Cruises announces 10 additional ships and opens 2028 Europe season
With an order for ten new vessels and the opening of bookings for its 2028 European season, Celebrity River Cruises is significantly accelerating its expansion on Europe’s rivers
Read the News

Air India expands single-aisle fleet with order for 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets
By ordering 30 additional Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, Air India is accelerating the modernisation of its fleet and reinforcing its growth strategy in India’s rapidly expanding domestic and regional aviation market
Read the News

Hurghada: TUI Care Foundation supports Maaza Bedouin community through cultural tourism
With a new cultural tourism initiative in Hurghada, the TUI Care Foundation is strengthening the visibility, livelihoods and cultural heritage of Egypt’s Maaza Bedouin community while creating authentic experiences for visitors to the Red Sea desti
Read the News

TAT launches ‘Feel All The Feelings’ campaign with LISA as Amazing Thailand Ambassador
With a new TV commercial featuring Lalisa “LISA” Manobal, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is strengthening its Trusted Thailand strategy and positioning the country as a high-quality destination through emotion-led storytelling
Read the News

China advises citizens to avoid travel to Japan
Beijing cites security concerns and earthquake risks as tensions with Tokyo remain high
Read the News

Four Seasons marks 65 years with focus on disciplined global growth
Anniversary year highlights expansion in key markets, residential strength and the debut of Four Seasons Yachts
Read the News

Spain presents Tourism 2030 Strategy at FITUR and strengthens global tourism governance
At FITUR 2026, the Ministry of Industry and Tourism outlines strategic priorities for the decade ahead, relaunches social dialogue in hospitality and confirms the opening date of the Parador de Ibiza
Read the News

Emirates and Air Peace activate bilateral interline agreement
Enhanced partnership expands seamless connectivity between Africa, the UAE and London
Read the News

Shiso City unveils new sustainable experiences rooted in forests, fermentation and heritage railways
Located near Kyoto and Osaka, the forest-rich city in Hyogo Prefecture positions itself as an emerging destination for nature-based and culturally grounded travel
Read the News

Diamond Princess expands culinary offering with two new specialty restaurants
Makoto Ocean and the Crown Grill debut for the 2026 Asia and Japan season, further enhancing Princess Cruises’ dining experience at sea
Read the News

Germany issues travel alert for the United States after Minneapolis shooting
Foreign Ministry urges vigilance following violent confrontations during protests in several U.S. cities
Read the News

Eurowings expands services and routes in early 2026
Fast onboard internet, a top employer award, flexible flight vouchers and a new summer route from Graz underline Eurowings’ focus on connectivity and quality
Read the News

ITB Berlin 2026 launches ITB Navigator for matchmaking and show preparation
New digital platform supports networking, appointment planning and information access ahead of ITB Berlin from 3 to 5 March 2026
Read the News

Marella Cruises reveals headline acts for 30th Birthday sailings in May 2026
Live performances and celebrity Q&A sessions will mark three decades of Marella Cruises with celebratory voyages across the fleet
Read the News

Oceania Cruises marks America’s 250th anniversary with distinctive Alaska and New England voyages
Luxury cruise line unveils 19 journeys in 2026 combining heritage, landscapes and destination-focused culinary experiences
Read the News

Condor launches daily Frankfurt–Cairo service from May 2026
New route strengthens Condor’s international network and expands access to a key market in North Africa
