Planning where to go on holiday in 2027? Whether you’re organising ahead of time or simply searching for inspiration, we’ve rounded up the best experiences and holiday destinations for 2027 that you can do with us:
- Italy
- Europe - Top destinations
- Europe - Emerging destinations
- Europe - Food & Drink
- Long haul destinations
From returning to much-loved favourites to discovering somewhere entirely new, our expertly curated guided group holidays for 2027 offer unforgettable experiences for every traveller with all kinds of interests.
Top 2027 holiday destinations and experiences
Best Italy holiday destinations 2027
Italy offers endless experiences that capture the essence of la dolce vita. Its lasting charm comes from the seamless combination of history, culture, cuisine, and breathtaking scenery that continues to enchant travellers year after year.
Cinque Terre: The colourful coastal villages scattered along Italy’s Ligurian coast are among the country’s most scenic destinations. A train or boat trip through the area offers breathtaking views and a unique perspective of this stunning stretch of coastline.
The Dolomites: The best way to take in the scenery is by train, offering sweeping views of the dramatic alpine landscape. Explore mountain towns such as Bolzano and Trento, including Buonconsiglio Castle, set against the striking backdrop of the Dolomites.
Sorrento: Perched above the Bay of Naples, Sorrento is known for its cliffside views, lemon groves and relaxed coastal atmosphere. Whilst staying here, you can easily take excursions to the Amalfi Coast, Capri and Pompeii.
The Italian Lakes: Each offers its own distinctive charm, with elegant lakeside towns and tranquil waters set against dramatic mountain scenery.
- Lake Garda is an ideal base for day trips to Venice and Verona.
- Lake Como offers easy access to Milan and the opportunity to experience the Bernina Express.
- Lake Maggiore is known for the beautiful Borromean Islands and you can easily visit Lake Orta.
Top European holiday destinations 2027
Europe’s top destinations combine iconic cities, historic landmarks and striking landscapes for unforgettable experiences across the continent.
Andalucía: Home to the Alhambra in Granada, Seville’s historic quarter, Córdoba’s Mezquita and Jerez, the region combines Moorish heritage with whitewashed villages, flamenco traditions and distinctive local culture.
The Baltics: Comprising Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia, each featuring charming UNESCO-listed old towns in their capital cities alongside highlights such as Trakai Castle in Lithuania, Gauja National Park in Latvia, and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Tallinn, Estonia.
Romania: Discover a striking mix of medieval charm and grand architecture, including the colourful streets of Sighisoara to the fairytale elegance of Peleș Castle, the dynamic capital of Bucharest, and the legendary Bran Castle set against the backdrop of the Carpathian Mountains.
Madeira, Portugal: A volcanic island located off the northwest coast of Africa, but with distinct Portuguese charm. Known for its lush landscapes, rugged cliffs and colourful gardens, it offers highlights such as Funchal’s historic centre, the traditional thatched-roof cottages in Santana, dramatic viewpoints like Eira do Serrado, and the chance to sample Madeira wine.
Southwest France: Discover two contrasting cities in the region, with Toulouse’s terracotta architecture and lively atmosphere, and Bordeaux’s elegant squares, riverside setting and world-famous wine culture. The area also features Carcassonne, a fortified medieval city, the Canal du Midi, enjoyed on a scenic cruise, and the vineyards of Saint-Émilion, renowned for their exceptional wines.
Emerging European destinations 2027
Rich in culture, striking scenery and history, there are still plenty of lesser-known corners waiting to be explored in Europe, even if you’ve already been to some of its countries.
Extremadura, Spain: A lesser-explored region rich in history, discover the Roman Theatre of Mérida, one of Spain’s most impressive ancient sites, alongside the historic city of Badajoz and its fortified old quarter, all set within vast, unspoilt landscapes.
La Rochelle, France: Discover a charming Atlantic port city known for its historic Old Town, picturesque harbour and relaxed seaside atmosphere. It also offers easy access to Cognac, where you can sample its world-renowned brandy, and Fort Boyard, the iconic sea fortress best seen on a boat trip.
Central Croatia: Just as charming as the coast, this inland region combines the cultural energy of Zagreb, with its historic squares, museums and café-lined streets, with the natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for its cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes set within forested scenery.
Northern Greece: From ancient history to dramatic landscapes, explore Thessaloniki with its vibrant waterfront, Byzantine heritage and bustling atmosphere, visit Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great, and discover the extraordinary monasteries of Meteora, perched high atop towering rock formations above the Thessalian plains.
Le Marche and Umbria Italy: Umbria, known as the “green heart of Italy,” features medieval towns and culinary traditions, including Perugia’s historic piazza, Renaissance architecture and famous chocolate. Le Marche offers hilltop villages and rolling countryside, alongside Pesaro, a coastal town with an elegant old centre, seaside promenade and links to composer Gioachino Rossini.
Food and wine tours in Europe 2027
Discover Europe through its flavours, traditions and regional specialities, along with seeing the top sights, with hands-on experiences that bring each destination to life.
Southern Italy: Explore Naples on a guided food tour and sample local favourites such as tarallo, frittatina di pasta and cuoppo, discovering the city’s vibrant street food culture.
Basque Country, Spain: Stroll through Bilbao’s lively pintxos bars, sampling local specialities, and cross into La Rioja for a wine tasting experience in one of Spain’s most renowned wine regions.
Southern Spain: Visit the Descalzos Viejos winery for a guided tour and tasting, sampling three seasonal wines alongside local products in a historic setting.
Mallorca, Spain: Visit a traditional olive oil producer and a local winery, gaining insight into the island’s rich agricultural heritage and Mediterranean flavours.
Piedmont, Italy: Enjoy cheese tasting in Bra, sample Barolo wines in the heart of the Langhe region, and try the region’s signature Cuneese al Rhum chocolate.
Beyond Europe - Best long haul destinations 2027
There are worldwide destinations that are well worth travelling the extra distance for, offering the chance to immerse yourself in new cultures, striking scenery and unforgettable experiences.
The Galapagos: It’s one of the few places where you can observe wildlife up close in a truly pristine natural setting. Located 1,000 km off Ecuador’s coast, these remote islands are known for their unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies and marine iguanas, all thriving in a protected and largely untouched ecosystem.
South Africa: Explore Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain and the Cape Peninsula, sample world-class wines in Stellenbosch, travel along the breathtaking Garden Route and enjoy remarkable safaris where you can spot the Big Five.
China: Journey through centuries of history and culture as you walk the Great Wall, encounter the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, explore the Yungang Grottoes, experience the dynamic atmosphere of Shanghai and take in the dramatic scenery of the Yangtze River.
South Korea: Explore a dynamic blend of heritage and contemporary culture from the capital Seoul, home to Gyeongbokgung Palace and Bukchon Hanok Village, to the historic temples of Gyeongju, before discovering Busan, a lively coastal city known for its fish markets and the colourful Gamcheon Culture Village.
India: Experience a land of rich history and diverse culture through iconic landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, the lively streets of Delhi and the royal palaces of Jaipur. Head into Ranthambore National Park on a safari in search of elusive Bengal tigers.
Ready to start planning your 2027 holiday?
Whether you’re inspired by iconic European cities or seeking something truly memorable, you’ll find the ideal destination for 2027 with Travel Department. From timeless favourites to new discoveries, there’s a wide selection of outstanding travel experiences to explore for the year ahead.
