In May 2026, the Western world will once again come together for the Eurovision Song Contest. Beyond the music, many of the 35 participating countries also stand out as remarkable travel destinations. Falstaff TRAVEL highlights some of the most exciting among them and invites you to vote for your favorite ESC holiday destination.
"12 points go to...!" - From May 12 to 16, 2026, the world will once again be watching the Eurovision Song Contest, which is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. 35 countries will be competing in Vienna - and many of them are worth a closer look, not only musically but also as vacation destinations.
Falstaff TRAVEL presents the most exciting of these destinations and invites you to vote for your personal ESC travel favorite in a reader survey.
The list is compiled as the top 9 in alphabetical order, making it easy for you to choose the most beautiful "ESC destination".
Albania
In recent years, Albania has developed from an insider tip to an exciting alternative to classic Mediterranean destinations. The country offers rugged mountains, deep valleys, charming coastal towns, and impressive hospitality.
A Falstaff TRAVEL insider tip: near the quaint Ottoman stone arch bridge Katiu, eight naturally warm springs bubble up directly in the Lengarica River in Bënjë. Nestled in the beautiful natural surroundings of Albania - near Përmet, the "City of Roses" - you will get to know the country from its most relaxed side. Tirana, the lively capital of Albania, is a city in transition that impresses with its colorful mix of culture, history and modern energy. Blloku, once a segregated district for the political elite, is now the heart of the nightlife with numerous bars, restaurants and clubs.
Bulgaria
Between the Black Sea coast, the Rhodope Mountains and the Danube lowlands, Bulgaria is a country full of contrasts. Golden beaches such as those in Albena or the seaside resort of Sunny Beach (Slantschew Brjag) are reminiscent of childhood vacations with sandcastles and ice cream scoops for 30 cents. But today, everything has become a little more refined; small boutique hotels are replacing prefabricated buildings, freshly caught fish and natural wines enrich the menus, yoga at sunrise is just as possible as a glass of rakija at sunset. Bulgaria also attracts visitors away from the coast.
The capital Sofia delights with its relaxed flair, Roman ruins and a creative gastronomy scene; hikers are drawn to the Rila or Pirin mountains with their wild lakes and ancient monasteries. Bulgaria is nostalgic and new at the same time, often underrated, rarely overcrowded - and ideal for anyone looking for the feeling of "the old days" without sacrificing comfort.
Georgia
Between the snow-capped peaks of the Caucasus, deep valleys and vast plateaus, Georgia unfolds as a destination full of intensity and contrasts. In a short space of time, the landscape changes from alpine wilderness to fertile wine regions, where viticulture has been practised for around 8,000 years - a tradition that still characterizes the country today.
Georgian culture is just as characteristic as nature: represented by warm hospitality, lively dinner parties and a strong sense of community. In small villages and towns alike, you will encounter a mixture of centuries-old history, living customs and a palpable openness towards travelers. Georgia is therefore a country that impresses not only with its landscapes, but above all with its atmosphere - original, powerful and full of stories.
Latvia
The Latvian capital Riga, also known as the "Pearl of the Baltics", is well worth a visit. An exciting fine dining scene has developed here in recent years. With "Vincents Restorāns", Mārtiņš Rītiņš brought excellent gourmet cuisine to Riga in the 1990s. Beyond the Eastern European roast and cabbage cliché, chefs rely on regional ingredients and like to look to Scandinavia - and to nature - for inspiration. Away from the city, travelers in Latvia will also find plenty of nature, quiet Baltic Sea beaches and hiking areas worth seeing, such as the Ķemeri National Park.
Lithuania
Lithuania and its capital Vilnius are well worth a visit, not least because of their up-and-coming culinary scene; Vilnius is not the only place where top-class restaurants are springing up. In the small fishing port of "Ventes Ragas", for example, you can sail your own boat, spend the night in a 19th century beach hut and learn about traditional coastal fishing in the restaurant. Or you can visit the impressive "Senatoria Pasaža" in Vilnius' old town, where a quarter of the stores and restaurants offer sustainably produced food and drinks. One pearl among them is the best restaurant in Lithuania - "Nineteen18".
Luxembourg
Luxembourg is an underestimated jewel of Europe. The city-state impresses with its clean infrastructure, trilingualism and short distances - perfect for a long weekend. The Grand Duchy has plenty of culinary delights to offer: from the traditional "Feierstengszalot" to exquisite chocolates in the House of Chocolate to upscale French cuisine in the two-star restaurant "Ma langue sourit", everything is on offer.
Culture fans will also find their entertainment; the old town with the Grand Ducal Palace, the Bockfelsen and the cathedral is perfect for a stroll, while the modern Kirchberg district boasts museums such as the "Mudam".
Malta
Malta, together with the neighboring islands of Gozo and Comino, is one of the undiscovered jewels in the Mediterranean. But the islands don't just impress with their nature and charm; Malta also conquers the palates of gourmet travelers. Maltese cuisine is as diverse as the country's 7,000-year history. Fresh fish such as perch, swordfish, tuna and octopus meet regional produce, aromatic herbs and high-quality olive oil. Five restaurants have been awarded Michelin stars, including the "Under Grain", "Noni" and "ION - The Harbour" in Valletta, the "De Mondion" in Mdina and the "Bahia" in Balzan. Especially in spring and at Whitsun, Malta attracts visitors with warm temperatures and turquoise blue water.
Montenegro
Long underestimated, Montenegro on the Adriatic is becoming one of the most exciting vacation destinations in Europe. Montenegro's nature is surprisingly diverse: turquoise-blue water, emerald-green lakes, dense forests such as Biogradska Gora and imposing mountain landscapes inspire you to go on hikes, excursions and explorations. If you want to take a break on the beach, you will find the perfect place to relax in any of the many bays and exclusive resorts - including lively beach clubs for sun-seekers. Montenegro is also a gourmet destination; fresh, regional products and Mediterranean specialties are the focus in restaurants such as "Stari Mlini" or "Catovica Mlini".
Serbia
Serbia is increasingly becoming a hotspot for wine lovers. With great commitment and impressive dynamism, winegrowers in the Balkan state are focusing on quality and diversity. The Serbian capital Belgrade has also blossomed into a vibrant party metropolis and is becoming the focus of night owls. Hardly any other metropolis can match the electrifying energy that Belgrade radiates after sunset - whether in clubs on old Danube ships, in bars with live music or at spontaneous street parties that go on until the early hours of the morning.
