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If you’re heading to Europe this year, but you’re no longer charmed by Paris and its twinkling Eiffel Tower, London with its red telephone boxes, and Rome and its ancient sights, you should know you’re not the only one looking for alternatives to the usual tourism hotspots.

According to a new report by Omio, one of the main travel comparison and booking websites in Europe, capital cities may have had their moment last year, but in 2026, 21% of travelers are opting for lesser-known destinations.

A large number cited lower prices, fewer crowds, and unique attractions as their main reasons for choosing ‘smaller metropolises’, and as relayed by Omio, ‘second cities’ have risen 34% in popularity year-on-year.

If you’re unfamiliar with the terminology, a ‘second city’ is what we call an important hub in a country that is a main cultural center, and a sizable-enough urban heavyweight to rival the capital, though it is not the administrative heart.

For 2026, there are 5 leading second cities that are pushing up travel trends, and if you love medieval heritage and culture-rich city breaks, you won’t want to skip them:

(Plus, don’t miss our quiz at the end to find which city is perfect for you!)

Ghent, Belgium

With a 66% increase in demand, as per the Omio report, Ghent is rapidly becoming one of the trendiest destinations in Europe, and we can’t really blame tourists for coming here instead of a jam-packed, overpriced, and increasingly dangerous Brussels.

Home to a picture-perfect medieval center traversed by picturesque canals, a historic castle known for its deep moat and rampart views, and a UNESCO-listed belfry, it is one of Belgium’s best-kept secrets that the wider public is only just now starting to catch onto.

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Antwerp, Belgium

The fourth-fastest rising secondary destination in Europe is yet another Belgian gem, and this time, the country’s second-largest: Antwerp is Brussels’ Flemish counterpart and a sprawling city with a real lived-in feel:

Its historic Old Town revolves around a postcard-ready Grote Markt, flanked by ornate guildhouses, and the cobbled streets that emanate from it lead to hidden courtyards and quirky chocolate shops. Towering above the well-preserved medieval maze, the Cathedral of Our Lady is a medieval Gothic marvel.

For the jewelry buffs out there, you’ll be thrilled to learn that Antwerp holds the title of Diamond Capital of the World, with Diamond District jewelers handling most of the rough diamonds that are commercialized. On top of that, the street food scene is unrivaled:

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Bari, Italy

Ranking third with a 85% rise in demand year-on-year, Bari sits among Italy’s most strategic Adriatic ports, and it stands out for its labyrinthine Old Town, locally known as Bari Vecchia: picture narrow, winding alleys, ancient Romanesque churches, and family-owned trattorie galore.

Europe’s longest uninterrupted promenade, Lungomare Nazario Sauro, stretches for a whopping 8 miles and offers sea vistas and cozy waterfront bars, and if you’re wondering what the signature Barese pasta is—every Italian city has one—that would be orecchiette.

Wandering down the cobblestone-paved Strada delle Orecchiette, you’ll come across Italian nonne making the ear-shaped pasta by hand on their front porches.

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Murcia, Spain

Step aside, Barcelona: the far more laid-back, sunnier, and equally beautiful Murcia, in the south of Spain, is Europe’s second-trendiest getaway this year. With a noteworthy 86% uptick in Omio searches, it is firmly on the average traveler’s radar.

Capital of the namesake region, Murcia is best known for its stately Plaza Cardenal Belluga, where a majority of its architectural showpieces are centered, including the richly decorated cathedral, the 18th-century Episcopal Palace, and the modern-era City Hall.

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Segovia, Spain

A short 25 min train ride from Madrid, Segovia is up in searches by 96% year-on-year, and that’s hardly a surprise considering it’s the quintessential European city break: from Roman ruins, to medieval castles, to beautiful imperial architecture, it ticks all of the boxes (and then some).

Rising high above the Plaza Mayor, the cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece with a lavish interior, and packed with narrow passageways and café-bordered plazas, the Jewish Quarter is a must-see.

Segovia’s pride and joy, however, and perhaps the main reason why it’s dominating talks, is its Alcázar: the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s Snow White castle, this tower-guarded stronghold perches dramatically atop rocky crags, and it truly looks like it belongs in a fairytale.

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Needless to say, Washington D.C. is a hotbed for national news — and not often do headlines portray anything travel-related.

So, let’s allow talking heads to be talking heads and reset our nation’s capital with some positivity, shall we?

Here at Travel Off Path, we drive to inspire people to travel however they see fit, but we also know the headaches that can come along the way in doing so.

One such headache is busy airports, which can be an all-encompassing nightmare for gridlock traffic to and from, slow-moving lines, grumpy TSA agents, and that’s just scratching the surface…

Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is one of America’s most popular hubs, so you can imagine the crowds at certain times…

But even with 2 other major airports close by, officials have announced big plans to open a currently private airport for commercial use — and yes, there are already plans for your favorite airlines to anchor this unheard-of town, roughly 30 miles from D.C.

Does Washington D.C. Need A Fourth Airport?

While past-their-prime pundits continue bickering about whether the White House needs a new ballroom or not, what hasn’t been reported nearly as much is if the region needs a new airport to give Dulles and others a breather.

In total, these are D.C.’s active airports:

• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) –
  Served about 27.2 million passengers in 2024
• Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) –
  Served around 26.29 million passengers in 2024
• Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) –
  Served just over 27 million passengers in 2024

That’s a lot of butts in seats!

Humor aside, and not to bring down the mood, let’s talk about the elephant in the room regarding D.C. air travel.

Not long ago, one of America’s most disastrous aviation accidents happened with the Capitol in the background as an American Airlines passenger jet collided with a military helicopter just moments before landing at Reagan.

As a result of this fatal incident, it became a huge talking point about congested airspace with constant military drills and a pair of popular airports all navigating tight corridors near some of D.C.’s most famed landmarks.

Discounting Baltimore (BWI), approximately 45 minutes from D.C., the idea to open a fourth commercial airport may not sound so bad since it would be located 30 miles outside one of the busiest air traffic zones in the country, providing travelers more options without sacrificing convenience and easing pressure on existing airports.

Where Will D.C.’s New Airport Be Located?

Ever heard of Manassas, Virginia?

Odds are you haven’t, as this sleepy town is more known for small-town charm and Civil War battlefields than being a travel hub.

Though it’s important to note Manassas does have an Amtrak station to connect you where you need to go, because let’s be honest — you probably aren’t vacationing in this little-known D.C. suburb.

Currently, Manassas Regional Airport is a general aviation field where retired airline pilots and aviation hobbyists can log hours and practice landings, but soon they’ll be sharing runways with commercial jets.

And it’s all but official, already securing a 40-year lease for commercial use and key FAA clearances amidst the transition.

As we all know, clearing bureaucratic hurdles like these is often what pushes these lofty goals back, but there is an estimated date to look forward to.

When Will Manassas (MNZ) Open To The Public?

Speaking of setbacks, believe it or not, MNZ was supposed to open to the public in 2025, but has since been postponed to 2027.

Here is what we know so far:

• As stated, the FAA has already provided a certificate clearing the airport’s transition from private to public
• Officials now expect the first commercial flights in spring 2027 (April or May as the soonest realistic target)
• Infrastructure upgrades, including taxiway and runway bridge work, are awaiting an environmental assessment
• New tower is expected to take 18 months to complete (dependent on FAA funding)
• Expected ‘curb to gate’ time is expected to be 7 – 12 minutes
• The goal is to welcome only 1 or 2 airlines in the initial launch phase
• No airlines have committed to MNZ as of yet

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Taking a page out of Iceland’s playbook, there’s one surging Asian city reviving a lesser-known airline under a new name, and it began operations last month.

Let’s hope for better results as both of Iceland’s WOW Air and Fly PLAY have now gone kaput despite jaw-dropping fares from major American hubs…

Parata Air (formerly Fly Gangwon) is one of the newest airlines in Asia’s aviation sector, along with Sun PhuQuoc Airways, except the former has bold plans to enter U.S. skies despite first commencing service less than a month ago.

As someone who has been eyeing an Asian adventure lately, I can tell you one thing is for certain — reaching Seoul from the U.S. mainland is expensive!

Unlike Japan’s Zipair, there’s no true low-cost option to fly direct to Seoul from any U.S. city — until now.

Thanks to Parata, a revamped Seoul-based budget airline, there will soon be 2 exciting new routes from major American cities for those of us ballin’ on a budget.

Parata Fills A Void: Cheap Flights To Asia’s Most Cultural City

Whether it be K-Pop concerts, downright sinful Korean barbecue, or the only country where 7-Eleven stores are cool, immersing in South Korea’s fascinating culture is truly a bucket-list experience no matter how you choose to do it.

Though getting anywhere in Korea (yes, the Southern one) tends to come with a hefty price tag when you book your flight.

That’s all set to change with the arrival of Parata Air.

“We will transcend the boundaries of full-service and low-cost carriers. We don’t plan to adhere to the existing distinction. We aim to be an airline that starts with the services and routes that are essential from the customer’s perspective, while providing an experience that stands out in the market.”

Parata Air CEO Yoon Chul-min

Here’s an example of why Parata is much needed in U.S. skies:

A round-trip flight from LAX for a weeklong trip to Seoul costs a minimum of $1200 for a connecting flight, and $1310 for a direct flight via Air Premia, which is surprisingly categorized as a Korean low-cost airline.

With an expected launch date to be set for Summer 2026, I chose the middle of summer for sample fares for comparison’s sake, and obviously, they’re pretty steep.

This is why Parata is destined to be a success, unlike the previous examples of Iceland’s failed budget carriers, since flagship Icelandair isn’t nearly as costly (once you land, it’s another story — yikes!).

2 Major U.S. Airports Set To Welcome Parata Air

Parata’s first venture into America will be a pair of our most connected airports, making the trip as seamless as possible.

According to SimpleFlying, Parata has already dotted their i’s and crossed t’s with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) with the intention of being granted a spot at the aforementioned Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) as well as Las Vegas’s Harry Reid International Airport (LAS).

Both of these cities become a literal hot mess come summertime, so if it all goes according to plan, Seoul makes for the perfect escape from the desert heat into one of Asia’s most sought-after cities.

Just know these plans are not finalized. Currently, Parata Air only has 4 planes to their name, and these planned U.S. routes would take place on a spacious Airbus A330-200 when (*knock on wood*) it comes to fruition.

Why Seoul Has Become A Powerhouse Must-Visit Destination

Seoul is a name we all know, but over recent years, it’s become a tourism powerhouse.

Largely influenced by pop culture with the raging success of Squid Games and the ever-growing K-Pop phenomenon, not to mention even the tiniest of map-dot towns across the U.S. opening Korean BBQ eateries, Seoul has earned a seat at the table with Tokyo, Hong Kong, and the likes.

Of course, it doesn’t hurt that Seoul has a global reputation for being safe at all hours. Whether you’re hankering for some late-night street grub or want to belt out your favorite K-pop tune at a karaoke hole-in-the-wall, you don’t have to keep your head on a swivel like other mega metropolises.

It’s also a city where modern tech meets ancient palaces. Arguably the most sightly photo op is the 600-year-old Gyeongbokgung Palace, an absolute must-visit.

The only thing Seoul hasn’t had going for it is cheap flights, but now Parata has a chance to change that. Once here, the city is incredibly simple to get around, and you won’t break the bank unless you splurge on a 5-star hotel.

It’s hard to comprehend how one of America’s most instantly recognizable getaways doesn’t have a direct flight to one of the most visited cities on Earth.

That’s right — Paris may seem easy enough to reach, even if it means hours spent soaring through the clouds, but one U.S. city has been missing out on the party.

Oh, the irony…

Even more ironic is possibly the world’s best replica of the Eiffel Tower placed front and center for tourists’ enjoyment here, but let’s face it — nothing beats the real deal when it comes to Parisian delights.

Whether it’s starting your day watching the world go by at one of hundreds of sidewalk cafes, grabbing a buttery croissant from an authentic patisserie, wandering cobblestoned mazes that feel pulled from a painting, or visiting dozens of world-renowned landmarks and museums like the Louvre (well, what’s left of it…), there’s no denying France’s most popular city can’t be duplicated.

Forever a Travel Off Path favorite, we know visiting Paris is never a bad idea — and now “Sin City” residents can evade the bright lights of Vegas for romance, charm, and elegance, a world away from jingly slots and the neon Strip.

Vegas Residents Can Now Fly Nonstop To Paris

Yes, people actually live in Vegas full-time, and not just the array of overzealous street performers you’re forced to face on The Strip.

Vegas has become a full-fledged city; otherwise, professional sports teams wouldn’t be making their way here (sorry, Oakland…).

Believe it or not, as renowned as Las Vegas is across the world, Harry Reid International Airport doesn’t have nearly as many international flights as one might suspect.

And believe me, as someone who lives in a touristy city, there are certain pockets of the year when you can’t wait to make use of your passport.

As popular as Raiders games have become, that could be any given Sunday for locals who perhaps haven’t embraced their city as a newfound sports hub.

But now there’s a great escape more immaculate than Houdini…

Okay, maybe that’s a stretch, but Paris is pretty awesome anyway you slice it. Plus, the timing of the new flight couldn’t be better for a desert city.

Air France is slated to launch Vegas’s only direct flight to Paris on April 15, 2026.

Beat The Desert Heat With An Unforgettable Trip To Paris

In a normal year, Vegas tourism numbers would be through the roof, but numerous reports say those very numbers are far from record-breaking right now, giving credence to a common complaint that the city’s most notable attractions as an entertainment capital have become way overpriced.

As a recent visitor myself, that’s certainly true as well. So, we can’t say locals are avoiding the crowds by leaving their beloved Vegas for a trip abroad, but there’s no denying they’re beating the summer heat as Sin City is notorious for blistering temps well over 100 degrees.

Air France’s new flight will take off in mid-spring next year. Just note it’s a seasonal route, so they can test the waters if it’s worthy of being extended.

The schedule is listed as followed:

Service will run through October 24, 2026, operating Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays.

Scoring a flight July through September is a great time to visit, as Paris’s summer temps average 72 -79 those months, while people back home are practically melting into the sidewalk if they’re outside for 5 minutes.

The flight is expected to depart Las Vegas at 5:50 p.m. and arrive in Paris at 1:05 p.m. the following day.

Tickets are now live on Air France’s official website, with the inaugural one-way flight to Paris currently on sale for $498 for Economy class.

On-Board Experience With Air France

The new Vegas – Paris route will be Air France’s 19th venture in U.S. skies, and this particular journey will take place on a spacious, state-of-the-art Airbus A350.

On board, you’ll find just what the doctor ordered for long-haul flights:

• personal HD entertainment screens
• reliable WiFi
• newly-designed cabins
• complimentary meals (including champagne)
• separate Business, Premium (formerly Premium Economy), and Economy classes

Not to mention, Air France is codeshared with Delta. Don’t be shy — cash in your SkyMiles!

It seems like we can fly anywhere, but turns out that’s an illusion.

Over the past year or so, I’ve lost count of how many airport openings Travel Off Path has covered ranging from Tulum to Gulf Shores to perhaps the most surprising of all, McKinney, Texas.

Now there’s another surprise destination to add to this growing list…

Kentucky is a state that often sparks debate. The conversation ranges from whether Popeye’s is truly better than KFC (it is!), to the proper height of a hat at the Derby, and the unique dynamics of navigating family reunions.

Kidding aside, Kentucky is one of America’s most underrated states. One sip on the Bourbon Trail will have you forgetting about Tennessee, and numerous small towns exude a deep sense of history and timeless charm, overshadowed by Louisville.

One such town, Paducah, lies along the tranquil Ohio River. According to the Paducah Sun, this charming riverside hideaway is set to welcome new commercial flights for the first time in years, serving major hubs in hopes to create a new wave of tourism.

Where In The World Is Paducah?

Hugging the Ohio state line, Paducah is Kentucky’s last frontier for river commerce and still sees riverboat tours to keep the unique history alive.

This charming waterfront town is certainly not a household name like Louisville, and is even less well-known than other large cities like Lexington.

Paducah boasts a fascinating history, but the one fun fact that stood out to me the most was that this underrated town was part of the real estate deal of a lifetime.

Have you been house hunting at all lately? Listing prices seem like an impossible goal to achieve.

Well, Paducah was once purchased for less than a Starbucks drink, which sends my jealousy meter skyrocketing.

Its prime location at the confluence of the Tennessee and Ohio Rivers made Paducah a major port back in its heyday, but it’s set to see a rise again in a whole new form as a foodie destination, arts hub, cultural getaway, and nature haven with easier access than it’s seen in years.

Why Visit Paducah?

There are so many small towns oozing charm and character, so you’re probably wondering what makes Paducah stand out above the rest.

First off, not every town is as conveniently walkable as Paducah. Say you were to arrive by a river cruise, you wouldn’t feel the need to snag a rental car to get around.

Downtown and the LowerArts District are made for wandering on foot with galleries, cafes, and boutiques all within close reach.

Second, Paducah has received the UNESCO Creative City designation. To be honest, as a seasoned traveler and journalist, I had no idea this was a thing!

It turns out this is a global recognition, highlighting Paducah as a surprising cultural hub for the arts, as it’s officially been designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art.

That’s probably not the idea you had of Kentucky, right? Me neither! Visit the Floodwall portraits and you’ll be shocked by the artistic talents of this tight-knit community.

And not to make a blanket statement on Paducah, but the National Quilt Museum of all places is one of the town’s top-rated attractions.

Aside from a burgeoning arts scene, soulful cuisine, vintage streets, and the vibrant waterfront, Paducah boasts underrated nature to explore, especially as summer winds down and the lush tree lines transform into rustic hues of red, orange, and gold, most notably the Greenway Trail and nearby Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.

So Long, Confusing Charter Flights! United Airlines Has Arrived

Before we dive into Paducah’s new flights, make sure to check out Travel Off Path’s latest tools, such as the Jetlag Fixer and Travel Personality Checker, to prep your next trip.

Alright, shameless plugs aside, this is really exciting news for Paducah! Right now, only Contour Airlines flies here, which offers really confusing charter flights from Charlotte that I personally would not take for a variety of reasons.

In the past, more notable commercial airlines have served Paducah’s Barkley Regional Airport (PAH), such as Delta, but it was just announced SkyWest is next in line, who is partnered with United — yes, you can use your points!

This news is all but official as the Department of Transportation (DOT) still has to give their stamp of approval, but the airport’s Executive Director Dennis Rouleau is claiming travelers can begin booking flights in September with the following inaugural flights set to take off in December:

• Chicago (ORD)
• Houston (IAH)

Flights will take place on a 50-seat CRJ 550 aircraft with first class, economy plus, and economy seats.