Multiple Schengen countries continue temporary internal border checks through late 2026
Travel Gossip Today
- Border Controls & Airport Delays Intensify
Multiple Schengen countries continue temporary internal border checks through late 2026, including France (until 31 Oct), Italy (18 Dec), Netherlands (30 Sep), Poland (1 Oct), Norway & Sweden (11 Nov).
The EU’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is causing long queues at major airports. Some airports have already seen 4–7 hour waits, especially Lisbon, Amsterdam, Paris CDG, and Frankfurt.
Airlines warn that EES may not be fully ready for peak season, raising concerns about summer congestion.
ETIAS Visa-Waiver Coming Late 2026
Non‑EU travellers (including Americans, Canadians, Brits) will soon need ETIAS pre‑authorization.
Rollout expected mid‑October 2026 at the earliest.
Rail Travel Surges Across Europe
New low‑cost rail passes (e.g., Netherlands unlimited summer pass) are boosting demand.
Heatwaves have caused temporary closures and service changes on some rail routes.
City Breaks & “Destination Dupes” Trend Up
Italian travellers show huge increases in short trips:
Seville +105% YoY – Prague +47% – Valencia +36%
Over‑tourism is pushing travellers to alternatives (“dupes”), with 41% more travellers avoiding overcrowded hotspots.
Extreme Weather Continues to Disrupt Travel
Heatwaves have forced closures of attractions and rail service adjustments in several countries.
Trending Destinations for 2026
According to Amadeus & UN Tourism:
Top trending: Czechia (+18% booked), Iceland (+11%), Spain (most searched & booked).
Europe welcomed 130 million international tourists in Q1 2026, up 4% YoY.
Costs Rising: Tourism Taxes & Dynamic Pricing
Cities like Barcelona and Venice continue raising or experimenting with visitor fees.
Tourist taxes increasing in Berlin, Amsterdam, Edinburgh.
Luxury Hotel Boom
Major openings reshaping premium travel:
Waldorf Astoria London
Six Senses Milan
Rosewood Milan These are among the most anticipated luxury launches of the decade.
What This Means for Travellers
Arrive early at airports (especially Schengen entry points).
Carry passports even for intra‑Schengen travel due to temporary border checks.
Expect higher prices in major cities and peak‑season hotspots.
Consider rail as a cheaper, more reliable alternative during summer disruptions.
Watch ETIAS updates if travelling late 2026.
