Dark skies tourism is set to be one of the top travel trends this summer, driven by a growing fascination with astronomy and astrophotography, according to The Great British Holiday Audit by easyJet and easyJet Holidays.

The report highlights a surge in bookings for Spanish hotspots like Valencia, Palma Mallorca, and Ibiza, particularly around August 12th, as travellers aim to combine sun-soaked breaks with catching the solar eclipse. These locations are perfectly situated in the eclipse's path and benefit from long, clear summer days.

The trend is especially popular among Gen Z and has been amplified by TikTok, following a wave of interest sparked by the Northern Lights visibility in the UK in 2025.

Beyond astronomical events, longer short-haul flights of five to six hours are becoming the "new norm". For example, Tunisia is experiencing significant growth, with a 12% increase in easyJet flights, particularly to the island of Djerba. Meanwhile, Tbilisi, Georgia is gaining traction as a popular city-break destination. And travel to longer-leisure hotspots such as Morocco, Turkey, and Cyprus has seen a 21% rise.

Travel writer Nigel Thompson, who co-authored the report, said: "We're seeing travellers plan around passions and purpose - whether that's spirituality, culture, sport or nature.

"It looks like 2026 is about meaning as much as mobility, but value remains a key factor."

'Gen P' travellers (those in their formative educational years during the pandemic) are embracing European pilgrimage routes like Santiago de Compostela and Lourdes.

Also, the return of hit TV shows like The White Lotus to Europe is expected to drive interest in destinations across the south of France as part of a 'screen-led' travel.

Similarly, 'canon country tourism'-visiting locations made famous in literature and modern retellings, such as Verona (Shakespeare) and Pamplona (Hemingway)-is on the rise, with 28% of holidaymakers choosing a destination based on TV, books, or film.

What's more, the padel phenomenon is fuelling sports-focused holidays, particularly in Spain, where the sport has surpassed tennis in popularity. Additionally, many fans are opting to travel to European fan zones to soak up the atmosphere of events like the World Cup, saving time and money compared to travelling across the Atlantic. The research found 10% of holidaymakers are now trying padel or pickleball while on holiday.

Travellers are also adapting their booking and holiday habits. Holidaymakers are increasingly using vlogs and VR to explore destinations before making a booking.

As for parents with pre-school children, they are maximising flexibility and travelling more before term-time restrictions begin. While on the other end of the spectrum 'Home Alone' Parents (those without adult children or pets) are rediscovering the freedom to travel.

Garry Wilson, CEO at easyJet Holidays, summarised the findings: "In 2026, there's a clear desire to make holidays count... people are prioritising connection, wellbeing and memories that last, not just time away."