Family travel is emerging as one of the strongest tourism trends for summer 2026, with fresh Google Trends data showing a sharp rise in searches for tailored trips across Italy and Europe.
The data, covering the last 90 days, points to a clear shift in how families plan holidays. Travellers are looking less for single destinations and more for flexible experiences, including short itineraries, multi-stop road trips and options that can include every member of the family, pets included.
The main figure is a 110% rise in searches linked to family travel over the past year. Within that trend, road trips are up 150%, pet-friendly travel has risen 170% in the last 90 days and interest in airlines that accept dogs has surged 580%.
The figures suggest families are planning more carefully, comparing more options and paying close attention to budgets. Many are also treating holidays as occasions for celebrations, including birthday trips.
City breaks are also gaining ground, with searches up 50%. Demand is strongest for short two- to three-day itineraries in compact cities that are easy to explore on foot and suit a slower pace of travel.
In Italy, Lucca in Tuscany stands out as a family-friendly city that can be explored by foot or by bike along its Renaissance walls. Its compact centre and calm atmosphere make it appealing for families looking to avoid traffic and keep a relaxed pace.
Matera in Basilicata offers a different kind of trip. The Sassi create a distinctive walking route through history and landscape, while museums and cultural activities add to its appeal for children and adults alike.
Ravenna in Emilia-Romagna combines art and seaside access, while Verona in Veneto offers a walkable historic centre with squares, the Arena and green spaces along the Adige. In Sicily, Siracusa and Ortigia attract families looking for culture, sea views and evening strolls through bright streets and squares.
Across Europe, the article highlights Ljubljana, Valencia, Porto, Edinburgh and Copenhagen as destinations that fit the same pattern: compact, safe and easy to navigate with children. All offer pedestrian areas, green space or family-focused attractions.
Ljubljana, in Slovenia, is described as one of the continent’s most liveable capitals, with riverside walks and interactive museums. Valencia mixes beaches, parks and futuristic architecture, while Porto offers short distances and panoramic views.
Edinburgh adds castles, free museums and open space, and Copenhagen continues to attract families with cycle lanes, playgrounds and interactive museums. The common theme is a holiday built around accessibility, convenience and experiences rather than distance.
The rise in family travel reflects broader changes in tourism behaviour, with travellers favouring slower journeys, better planning and more flexibility. The data suggests that summer 2026 will reward destinations that can offer short transfers, walkable centres, family activities and practical options for pets.
