Travel Trends | October 2026
Forget ordinary sightseeing. One of the most enchanting travel trends of 2026 is fairytale travel, where castles, enchanted forests, medieval villages, and storybook hotels are inspiring travelers to step into another world.
According to Booking.com’s 2026 travel predictions, 71% of surveyed travelers expressed interest in visiting destinations inspired by romantasy, the increasingly popular genre combining romance and fantasy.
Think mist-covered Scottish castles, cobblestone streets in medieval European villages, secret gardens, and woodland cottages that look as though they’ve been lifted straight from the pages of a Brothers Grimm fairytale.
But this trend isn’t simply about beautiful scenery. Travelers are seeking immersive experiences, from medieval banquets and folklore tours to historic castle stays and atmospheric forest retreats.
Destinations such as Germany’s Black Forest, France’s Alsace region, and Scotland’s Highlands offer the perfect combination of history, mythology, and natural beauty.
And the magic isn’t limited to Europe. America has its own collection of enchanting destinations, some with fascinating connections to beloved fairytales and literary legends.
The question is, where can you find them?
Mystery Unlocked: Discover America’s real-life fairytale destinations below.
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