Luxury Travel Planning in 2026: Europe Coastal Destinations

With the pace of global events, many travelers are asking an important question: Is now a good time to plan international travel?

The answer depends on the destination — but one thing remains constant: having a trusted travel advisor makes all the difference.

As a luxury travel advisor with global partners and real-time insights, I stay closely connected to what’s happening on the ground. From navigating changing conditions to securing the best experiences, my role is to ensure your trip is seamless, informed, and stress-free.

Virtuoso “To The Sea” Issue: Start Your Travel Inspiration

The latest issue of Virtuoso The Magazine, “To The Sea,” is filled with inspiration for travelers dreaming of coastal Europe, island escapes, and waterfront destinations.

Whether you’re dreaming of island hopping in Spain, sailing along Croatia’s coast, or discovering a new hidden gem, this issue is filled with ideas to spark your next journey.

When you’re ready to turn inspiration into a real plan, I’m here to help you design a custom luxury itinerary tailored to you.

If you’re already a client, your copy is on the way — and if not, the digital version is a great place to start discovering your next trip. Access the digital version here.

As I flipped through this issue, it reminded me of a few standout destinations I highly recommend — especially for summer 2026 travel planning.

The Balearic Islands, Spain: Mediterranean Beauty & Island Hopping

Located off the coast of Spain, the Balearic Islands are one of Europe’s most sought-after island destinations.

Easily accessible from Barcelona, these islands each offer a unique travel experience:

  • Menorca – unspoiled, and perfect for relaxed luxury
  • Mallorca – a blend of culture, beaches, and upscale resorts
  • Ibiza – known for nightlife, but also home to beautiful, quiet corners

Having personally traveled to Menorca, I can confidently say these islands offer a perfect mix of scenic beauty, Mediterranean culture, and refined relaxation.

💎 Hidden Gem Tip: Consider combining multiple islands into one itinerary for a true island-hopping experience.

Croatia: One of Europe’s Most Rewarding Destinations

If you’re looking for a destination similar to Greece — but with a slightly different feel — Croatia is an exceptional choice.

Croatia consistently earns rave reviews from my clients for its:

  • Crystal-clear Adriatic coastline
  • Historic walled cities
  • Island-hopping opportunities
  • Incredible value compared to other Mediterranean destinations

For a more in-depth European itinerary, consider pairing Croatia with:

  • Slovenia (to the north) for alpine beauty and lakes
  • Montenegro (to the south) for dramatic coastal landscapes

With the right planning, this region becomes one of the most dynamic and diverse luxury travel experiences in Europe.

Start Planning Your 2026 Travel Now

The best destinations, hotels, and experiences for 2026 are already booking.

Whether you’re considering:

  • The Balearic Islands
  • Croatia and the Adriatic coast
  • Or another European coastal escape

Now is the time to start planning.

To travel is to live — here’s to making 2026 your most unforgettable year yet.

Susan

Why Working with a Luxury Travel Advisor Matters

Planning a European itinerary — especially one that includes multiple destinations, islands, or countries — involves countless moving parts:

  • Flights and transfers
  • Hotel selection (beyond online ratings)
  • Timing and seasonality
  • Access to exclusive experiences
  • Real-time support while traveling

84% of luxury travelers say working with a trusted advisor is more valuable than researching on their own — and it’s easy to see why.

With insider knowledge, global partnerships, and VIP perks, I help clients travel smarter, better, and with complete peace of mind.

Wanderlist: Your Personalized Travel Plan

If your travel bucket list keeps growing, Wanderlist is a strategic way to bring it to life.

This certified planning service helps map out your travel goals over the next several years — so you can prioritize, plan ahead, and make those dream trips a reality.

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Hi, I'm Susan Wilson

I’m the founder of Hidden Gem Travel Consulting. As your personal travel advisor, I craft custom worldwide itineraries that astound and inspire you.

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