Travellers flocking to low-key Italian coastal region away from the crowds
Europe is always going to be a classic holiday destination.
But as the more well-known hotspots get busier, many travellers are looking for more low-key places to enjoy a relaxed holiday.
According to Omio, 1 in 5 Aussies plan to explore lesser-known destinations this year, motivated by lower prices and fewer crowds.
To understand where travellers are heading next, Omio analysed year-over-year booking growth across its top city destinations to compile this list of the fastest-rising hotspots that travellers should have on their radar for 2026.
Read on to see which cities made the list.
20. Annecy, France
Annecy, in France, is a charming town reminiscent of Venice - without the crowds.
Nestled between lake and mountains, Annecy is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. It's beautiful in summer, but its proximity to ski resorts keeps it popular throughout the year.
READ MORE: 'I went skiing for the first time and made a surprising discovery'
19. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Beyond the big summer rush, Dubrovnik offers a serene off-season with scenic coastal walks, historic ramparts and mild winter temperatures.
It's a great jumping-off point to explore the rest of the Croatian coastline, or before heading south to Montenegro.
READ MORE: 'Less crowded, more serene': Why Croatia is the new Greece
18. Ghent, Belgium
Ghent blends medieval architecture with a young, energetic local vibe.
Traverse the canals and the cobblestoned streets to explore markets, boutiques, cafes, and art galleries galore.
17. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia's small capital offers a relaxed alternative to Europe's larger hubs, with riverside cafés, green spaces and a compact old town that is easy to explore on foot.
ts growing cultural scene and access to lakes, vineyards and alpine landscapes make it an appealing base for a slower city break in 2026.
READ MORE: Everything you need to know about Slovenia, the emerging European holiday hotspot
16. Antwerp, Belgium
A fashion and design capital with a striking cathedral and riverside district, Antwerp attracts travellers interested in art, shopping and cutting-edge creativity.
It offers a similar vibe to Amsterdam or Berlin, just without the huge crowds in the high season.
15. Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
In the south of Spain, Jerez is known for its well known for its wines, its horses and its flamenco.
Visitors come for its historic charm and stay for its evolving food scene, with charming alfresco dining options galore.
14. Santander, Spain
A refined seaside city with wide leafy streets and cultural venues, Santander appeals to travellers looking for fresh Atlantic air and slower coastal living.
READ MORE: A guide to the parts of Spain that aren't sick of tourists
13. Oviedo, Spain
Set in the country's northeast, between mountains and coast, Oviedo is known for pre-Romanesque monuments and a calm, elegant city centre.
It serves as a gateway to Asturias' natural landscapes.
12. Lecce, Italy
Often called the Florence of the South, Lecce blends baroque architecture with a vibrant arts scene.
Its location on the Salento peninsula offers easy access to some of Italy's most beautiful beaches.
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