The first quarter of 2026 is about to become a strategic moment for travel. The period follows the peak in demand for vacations and precedes the surge in summer tourism, which has historically delivered lower airfares, competitively priced accommodations and streamlined access to cultural and natural attractions.

ContentsCanary Islands, Spain for eternal springMalta for the mildest European winterSalzburg, Austria for Snow ParadiseCoast of Lisbon and southern PortugalAmman, Jordan (and nearby historical sites)Morocco — Cities and north coastVietnam — The hype of the high season is overCosta Rica — Green seasonal charmScottish Highlands, United KingdomIceland (winter nature, northern lights and more)Why off-season travel makes sense for 2026

Airlines, hotel groups, cruise lines and tour operators are expected to maintain competitive pricing during this period, allowing early planners – especially those booking during Black Friday 2025 – to secure outsized value on 2026 itineraries. Below is a curated selection of 10 attractive destinations that reliably excel in the off-season, each paired with a clear reason to consider this destination in early 2026.

Canary Islands, Spain for eternal spring

For many travelers in Europe, the Canary Islands remain the best way to enjoy sun and mild weather in the middle of winter. Daytime temperatures in January regularly hover around the low 20s°C, providing an inviting escape from colder interiors. With fewer tourists, you can find better rates on flights and accommodation – and a more relaxed atmosphere for beach days, walks or just enjoying the island’s nature and coastal charm.

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Malta for the mildest European winter

Malta shines as a top European winter destination thanks to its generally mild weather, even in January and February. With fewer crowds, historic sites, charming towns and coastal landscapes become more relaxing to explore. Winter stays also tend to cost less, meaning you get more value for your money, especially if you prefer a quieter, slower journey.

Salzburg, Austria for Snow Paradise

For those who embrace winter landscapes, Salzburg is ideal. The Alpine backdrop, the historic Baroque architecture and the often snow-covered streets create a fairytale winter atmosphere. Visiting off-season means you’ll avoid the summer crowds, have easier access to local culture, and pay lower prices for stays and services – from cozy inns to guided tours.

Coast of Lisbon and southern Portugal

Southern Europe – especially the coastlines of Lisbon and Portugal – will be attractive to travelers in early 2026 after milder weather, fewer tourists and affordable stays. Off-season travel in Europe usually means fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation, and easier access to the main attractions. This makes Lisbon a great base for exploring coastal towns, enjoying Atlantic sunsets and experiencing Portugal’s vibrant culture at a lower cost.

Amman, Jordan (and nearby historical sites)

TravelLocal names Jordan, among other travel analysts, as one of the best off-season places worth visiting. A visit in early 2026 often means a more comfortable climate, fewer tourists and better access to iconic locations such as desert landscapes, historic Petra and cultural cities. Traveling outside peak hours can also mean easier visits and lower costs for accommodation or tours.

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Morocco — Cities and north coast

As global demand for travel increases during off-peak seasons, North African destinations such as Morocco are becoming especially attractive to those seeking warmth, culture and value. Traveling off-season often means lower costs, mild weather and fewer crowds, giving you a more authentic and approachable experience. Morocco’s cities, historic medinas and coastal towns are particularly enjoyable when stripped of the typical summer volume of tourists.

Vietnam — The hype of the high season is over

While peak season planning often focuses on leisure travel, off-season and shoulder travel in destinations like Vietnam can be particularly rewarding. According to recent guidebooks, off-season travel offers a trade-off: occasional rain, yes – but lush landscapes, fewer crowds, cheaper accommodation and flights, and an overall more relaxing experience. For the traveler who wants to embrace a bit of unpredictability, Vietnam offers vibrant culture, natural beauty and affordability.

Costa Rica — Green seasonal charm

Costa Rica is among the top choices for off-season travel for 2026, especially during the “green season.” As rainfall increases, lush jungles, green landscapes and much lower tourist pressure make for a more peaceful, nature-driven experience. For occasional shower visitors, this can be one of the most rewarding times to explore rainforests, wildlife and coastal landscapes – often at a lower cost than the dry/high tourist season.

Scottish Highlands, United Kingdom

For travelers drawn to wild landscapes, history and quiet solitude, the Scottish Highlands offer an attractive out-of-season alternative. According to travel destination reviews, traveling in winter and early year to the Highlands – including snow-capped mountains, lakes and remote villages – provides a very different, atmospheric experience than the busy summer months. With fewer tourists and often lower prices for accommodation and transport, the off-season can turn a trip to the Highlands into a moody, memorable adventure.

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Iceland (winter nature, northern lights and more)

Iceland remains one of the standout off-season destinations for winter travelers looking for dramatic nature, fewer crowds and the chance to witness phenomena like the Northern Lights. Off-season travel offers lower flight and lodging costs compared to the summer months, while providing unique natural experiences that few other destinations offer. Between geothermal pools, glacial landscapes and winter-specific phenomena, early 2026 could be a perfect time for an Iceland adventure.

Why off-season travel makes sense for 2026

Traveling during the off-peak or shoulder season months – whether in winter in Europe or in the green rainforest season in tropical regions – often brings significant benefits: cost savings of 20-50% on flights, hotels and activities; much less crowds; easier access to top attractions; and a chance for a more relaxed, authentic travel experience.

Moderate weather (or at least milder than the peak season extremes), combined with better availability and a slower pace, make these destinations ideal for travelers who want to travel smart, especially with flexibility in dates and travel style.