How To Maximise Your 2026 Long Weekends for More Trips & Fun
Good news, fellow travel junkies! 2026 is serving up a buffet of long weekends just begging to be filled with adventure, foodie hunts, and Insta-worthy moments. Whether you’re a city slicker, a nature lover, or someone who just wants to binge on local snacks in a new city, we’ve got your long weekend itinerary sorted. From New Year fireworks to cherry blossoms and autumn glow-ups, here’s exactly why each 2026 long weekend is the perfect time to visit these destinations. Pack your bags and let’s go!
1 – 4 January | New Year: Shanghai, China
New year, new adventures! Kick off 2026 with a bang in Shanghai. Shanghai in early January is buzzing with fresh-start energy. Think winter lights, festive decorations, and countdown parties lighting up the Bund skyline. The cooler weather also makes walking around the city way more enjoyable than peak summer heat.
What makes it extra special now:
- New Year countdown events along the Huangpu River
- Winter illuminations across shopping streets
- Crisp weather = perfect for café hopping and night strolls
What to do in Shanghai:
- Grab a bubble tea and people-watch in Xintiandi
- Wander the old streets of the French Concession for charming cafes and vintage vibes
- Catch a Shanghai Tower view for a sky-high start to the year
Pro tip: Book a river cruise along the Huangpu River to see the city sparkle after sunset—perfect for that first Instagram shot of 2026.
🗓️ Public holiday: 1 January | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 2 January | Weekend: 3-4 January
17 – 22 February | Chinese New Year: Da Lat, Vietnam
While most cities get crowded during CNY, Da Lat is quietly thriving. February is peak flower-bloom season, with gardens, hills, and lakes bursting into colour. Add in cool spring temperatures and you’ve got one of Vietnam’s prettiest moments.
What makes it extra special now:
- Blooming hydrangeas and cherry blossoms (yes, Vietnam has them!)
- Pleasant 15–24°C weather
- Calm, slow-paced vibes after the festive rush
What to do in Da Lat:
- Cycle around Xuan Huong Lake or stroll through the flower gardens.
- Explore the crazy cool Crazy House (yes, it’s as quirky as it sounds).
- Sip Vietnamese coffee while overlooking endless pine forests.
Extra tip: The weather in Da Lat is perfect for long, lazy brunches. Pair that with a spa day and you’ve got yourself the ultimate CNY recharge.
🗓️ Public holiday: 17-18 February | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 19-20 February | Weekend: 21-22 February
20 – 23 March | Hari Raya Puasa: Kyushu, Japan
Late March is when Japan starts flirting with sakura season, and Kyushu is often one of the first regions to bloom. It’s also one of the last chances to enjoy onsens before spring crowds roll in. Plan your holiday around these dates to save your leave! 😉
What makes it extra special now:
- Mild spring temperatures
- Fewer crowds than Tokyo or Osaka
What to do in Kyushu:
- Soak in Beppu’s hot springs—your stress will melt faster than snow in the sun.
- Wander Nagasaki’s historical streets and soak up the multicultural vibes.
- Hit a local ramen spot—Kyushu ramen is creamy, rich, and downright slurp-worthy.
Travel tip: Early spring means fewer crowds and cherry blossom previews—hello, photo ops!
🗓️ Public holiday: 21 March | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 20, 23 March | Weekend: 22 March
3 – 6 April | Good Friday: Gyeonggi-do, South Korea
Early April is THE moment for cherry blossoms in South Korea — and Gyeonggi-do delivers big time. Parks, lakes, and streets are wrapped in pink, and spring festivals are in full swing.
What makes it extra special now:
- Cherry blossom-lined walking trails
- Spring flower festivals
- Cool, comfortable sightseeing weather
What to do in Gyeonggi-do:
- Hike the stunning trails of Nami Island or the Garden of Morning Calm.
- Explore Korean folk villages and traditional hanok houses.
- Try the local street food: tteokbokki, hotteok, and more.
Klook hack: Book a guided tour for a hassle-free escape—more time eating, less time Googling directions.
🗓️ Public holiday: 3 April | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 6 April | Weekend: 4-5 April
1 – 4 May | Labour Day: Gold Coast, Australia
May is one of the Gold Coast’s best-kept secrets. Summer crowds have eased, but the sun is still shining. Expect warm days, cooler nights, and beach conditions that are chef’s kiss.
What makes it extra special now:
- Comfortable temperatures for surfing and theme parks
- Fewer tourists compared to Aussie school holidays
- Great visibility for coastal views
What to do in Gold Coast:
- Catching waves or just chilling on the beach.
- Adrenaline seekers, hit up Dreamworld or Sea World.
- Sunset drinks along Surfers Paradise—bonus points for sunset selfies.
Tip: A quick road trip along the coastline will give you secret spots for photos and a taste of Aussie vibes. Don't forget to grab your Klook Pass for Australia Tours and enjoy up to 30% off activities!
🗓️ Public holiday: 1 May | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 4 May | Weekend: 2-3 May
Let’s be real — four days is barely a teaser for Australia. Plan your trip around these dates and make the most of your leave 😉
27 May – 1 June | Hari Raya Haji & Vesak Day: Milford Sound, New Zealand
Late autumn in New Zealand means snow-dusted mountains and waterfalls at their most powerful. Milford Sound in May is quieter, moodier, and ridiculously photogenic.
What makes it extra special now:
- Peak waterfall flow from seasonal rain
- Fewer tourists = more serene fjord cruises
- Crisp air and dramatic skies
What to do in Milford Sound:
- Cruise through fjords surrounded by waterfalls and wildlife.
- Hike the trails for jaw-dropping views.
- Camp or stay in eco-lodges to truly embrace the natural beauty.
Extra pro tip: This long weekend is perfect for disconnecting—your inbox can wait, trust us.
🗓️ Public holiday: 27 May, 1 June | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 28-29 May | Weekend: 30-31 May
New Zealand deserves more than just six days — build your itinerary around these dates to make every leave day count 🥳
7 – 10 August | National Day: Surabaya, Indonesia
August is dry season in East Java, which means crystal-clear skies for Mount Bromo and surrounding landscapes in Surabaya. Sunrise views are at their best, and outdoor adventures are much more enjoyable.
What makes it extra special now:
- Best weather for Mount Bromo sunrise tours
- Cooler temperatures for city exploring
- Clear visibility for photography
What to do in Surabaya:
- Mount Bromo sunrise tour (worth the early wake-up).
- Colonial-era architecture mixed with lively markets.
- Local eats like rawon (beef soup) and rujak (fruit salad).
Travel tip: Rent a scooter or grab a local driver—exploring Surabaya’s hidden corners is half the fun.
🗓️ Public holiday: 9-10 August | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 7 August | Weekend: 8 August
6 – 9 November | Deepavali: Chongqing, China
November is Chongqing at its most comfortable. The summer humidity is gone, temperatures are mild, and the city’s surrounding mountains start showing off autumn colours.
What makes it extra special now:
- Perfect weather for hotpot (important)
- Golden autumn scenery along the Yangtze River
- Clear night views of the city skyline
What to do in Chongqing:
- Take a Yangtze River cruise for epic skyline photos.
- Explore the old town and try local street snacks.
- Don’t miss the cable car ride for city panoramas.
- Visit Chongqing 1949 for the most epic 360 degree performance.
Klook hack: Book a hotpot experience tour—trust us, your taste buds will thank you.
🗓️ Public holiday: 8-9 November | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 6 November | Weekend: 7 November
25 – 28 December | Christmas: Nagoya, Japan
December in Japan is all about lights, markets, and cozy winter food. Nagoya goes full festive mode, with winter illuminations and year-end celebrations everywhere you turn.
What makes it extra special now:
- Christmas illuminations across the city
- Seasonal winter dishes and warm desserts
- Less crowded than Tokyo during year-end
What to do in Nagoya:
- Visit Nagoya Castle decked out in holiday lights.
- Shop and snack at Osu Shopping District.
- Check out winter illuminations—Instagrammable perfection.
Bonus tip: Warm up with Nagoya’s famous miso katsu—it’s comfort food on another level.
🗓️ Public holiday: 25 December | Off-in-lieu/Leave: 28 December | Weekend: 26-27 December
Pro Klook Tips for Maximising Long Weekends:
- Plan ahead – Popular spots book fast!
- Mix urban + nature escapes – Balance your long weekends with city buzz and tranquil nature.
- Local experiences > tourist traps – Street food, night markets, and festivals make trips memorable.
- Short flights = more holiday time – Maximise the getaway, minimise the travel stress.
With these long weekends, 2026 is your year to travel more, explore more, and make every mini-break unforgettable. Pack your bags, your next adventure is just a flight away!
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Our mission is to build the digital infrastructure for the global experience economy — empowering merchants to share their passions and travelers to discover the heartbeat of each destination. We operate a mobile-first, curated platform featuring diverse experiences across global destinations.
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