Wondering what European travel will look like in 2026? In this episode, Sonia shares her top travel predictions — from river cruise expansion and new itineraries to solo travel growth, themed cruises, slow travel, and why Europe will be more popular than ever. Get expert insight on what’s coming, what to book early, and how to make 2026 your best travel year yet.

Season 1 is wrapping up with one of my favorite topics: my European Travel Predictions for 2026. These insights come from real booking patterns, industry trends, conversations with cruise lines, and what I’m seeing travelers crave right now. From rising demand and the boom in solo travel to the expansion of river cruise fleets, more themed itineraries, and the growing desire for longer, slower, more meaningful travel — 2026 is shaping up to be an incredible year for exploring Europe.

Whether you're planning your first river cruise or your next big adventure, this episode helps you understand what’s changing, what’s trending, and how to plan a smart, unforgettable 2026 trip.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why Europe will be busier than ever — and how smart travelers can still win
• How river cruise lines are expanding and preparing for higher demand
• The rise of solo travel and why 2026 is the year to go solo
• Riviera’s solo-only 2026 itineraries and their groundbreaking 2027 solo-only ship
• The explosion of themed cruises: wine, beer, culinary, culture, and celebrity-hosted sailings
• Why slow travel and longer itineraries are dominating 2026
• How hosted group travel is becoming more popular — and why travelers want community
• Why travelers are choosing Europe for comfort, culture, and ease

Why This Episode Matters

Travel is evolving fast. Understanding these trends helps you choose the right destination, the right season, and the right itinerary — and most importantly, helps you book early so you get the best options.

This episode offers a clear, practical look at what’s ahead so you can plan your 2026 European adventures with confidence.

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Season 2 of Europe Unveiled officially begins on January 5, 2026, and we’re starting...