New museums and interesting locations will appear in many cities.
In recent years, Europe has experienced a huge influx of tourists. That’s why 2026 is the perfect time to explore places you might not have considered before.
Many European countries can offer new attractions and events that are definitely worth the attention of tourists. Euronews writes about attractive destinations.
The Cultural Capitals of 2026
The European cultural capitals of 2026 are the Finnish city of Oulu and the Slovak city of Trenčín. For example, from January 16 to 18, Oulu will host a festival that will include concerts, car customization, and the Finnish national sport of ice hockey.
There will also be something to see in Trenčín from 13 to 15 February. The old town will be transformed into an open cultural scene for music, art and social gatherings.
Brussels, Belgium
The Belgian city of Brussels is primarily associated with business and politics, but in 2026, it will embark on a cultural renaissance. In November, plans are underway to open the KANAL-Centre Pompidou in a 90-year-old Art Nouveau building that once housed a garage and the Citroën showroom. The building will serve as the first museum of contemporary and Art Nouveau art in the Belgian capital.
There will also be a restaurant overlooking the exhibition halls and a rooftop bar.
Helsinki, Finland
In the new year, the Helsinki Art Museum is dedicating a separate space to the beloved Finnish artist Tove Jansson, the creator of the Moomins.
“The gallery, which occupies three exhibition halls built around her murals “Party in the Village” and “Party in the City”, positions Jansson as a Helsinki-based artist and an international artist. The first exhibition (February 13, 2026 – January 24, 2027) explores the artistic work of the entire Jansson family, their images of each other and joint works,” the authors of the materials say.
Valencia, Spain
The Valencian region has become a leader in sustainable tourism. It is the first region in Spain to receive the AENOR certification for its Sustainable Tourism Strategy for 2024-2028.
In 2026, two iconic sites are planned to open there. For example, at the end of the year, Espai Manolo Valdés, dedicated to the artist of the same name, who was born in Valencia, will open its doors. New and previously unseen sculptures will be presented there.
Another artist, Joaquín Sorolla, will be honored by the Sorolla Museum. 220 works will be exhibited at the Palacio de las Comunicaciones.
Gastronomic destinations
There’s also something interesting for gourmets in Europe. This year, it’s worth considering three culinary destinations. The food there is not only delicious but also focused on well-being, improving the quality of life, and more.
One of these places is the Greek island of Crete. There will be a one-week festival of the Cretan diet in the city of Rethymno in July.
At the same time, Gozo, Malta’s sister island, has been recognized for its “farm to table” traditions and ethical tourism model. It is worth trying ġbejniet (traditional sheep’s milk cheese), Gozitan ftira (leavened bread similar to pizza), fig pie, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Rounding out the top three is the Croatian town of Kvarner, where you can enjoy langoustines, game, mushrooms, and wild berries in one day.
New route along the coast of England
The epic route, the King Charles III Coastal Path, is expected to be finally completed in 2026. It will stretch for 4,303 km along the entire coast of England.
Most of the route has already been opened. Once completed, it will be the longest coastal route in the world.