New Haven: A Top 10 Global Trending Destination for 2026
New Haven, Connecticut, has emerged as one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations for 2026, according to a new report from flight search engine Skyscanner. The historic New England city experienced a remarkable 39% increase in flight searches, earning its place among the top 10 trending global destinations.
New Haven is one of only two U.S. destinations to make the prestigious list, joining Vail, Colorado at No. 5. The ranking was determined by analyzing flight search increases between January 1 and June 30, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, with destinations then evaluated for overall travel suitability.
Top Trending Destinations
- Limon, Costa Rica
- Jaipur, India
- Bodrum, Turkey
- Madeira, Portugal
- Vail, Colorado
- New Haven, Connecticut
New Haven’s inclusion reflects growing interest in cultural destinations, with the city being particularly acclaimed for its renowned pizza scene and prestigious Yale University campus.
The surge in interest demonstrates how travelers are seeking authentic, culturally rich experiences in smaller cities rather than traditional major metropolitan areas, marking a significant shift in travel preferences post-pandemic.