World Cup Triggers Major Travel Fever for 11 Countries

by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 1:40 PM ET, Wed July 29, 2026

World Cup 2026 may be officially behind us, but World Cup fever has not subsided, at least among travelers.

It seems football fever has instead translated into real-world wanderlust as fans now set their sights on visiting some of the home countries of teams that took part in the global event.

New Expedia data shows that 11 countries in particular are seeing major post-World Cup travel surges.

Topping the ranking is Cape Verde, where demand surged a whopping +935% following the island nation capturing hearts globally with its underdog run in the World Cup (not to mention the team’s superstar goalkeeper Vozinha, aka Josimar Jose Evora Dias, who pulled off a string of heroic performances)

But Cape Verde is hardly alone in benefiting from World Cup fever. Across the tournament, emotional storylines, fan culture and unforgettable moments helped turn football attention into vacation inspiration, says Expedia.

“In 2026, some of the biggest winners were the countries that gave fans a story to fall in love with — whether through heroic goalkeeping, emotional celebrations, fan traditions or sheer underdog spirit,” said Melanie Fish, Expedia spokesperson.

“Global tournaments continue to blur the line between sport, culture and travel, and the lesson is clear: when a country captures attention on the pitch, travelers are increasingly ready to book a trip off it,” added Fish.

Here’s a closer look at the destinations now trending with globetrotters in the wake of the 2026 World Cup.

11 soccer-inspired trending destinations

Cape Verde (+935%1)

Cape Verde’s breakout tournament run and goalkeeping heroics put the islands on the global map, inspiring travelers to start researching a sunny Atlantic escape to the archipelago located about 350 miles off the coast of Africa.

Made up of 10 main islands (along with some smaller islets), Cape Verde features diverse landscapes ranging from lush mountains to beautiful beaches.

Japan (+90%1)

Japan has been a travel darling for years now, attracting record levels of tourists from America who come home singing the praises of a vacation in the country.

Japanese football fans helped to reinforce the country’s popularity once again when they went viral for cleaning stadiums, reinforcing Japan’s reputation for respect, order and hospitality — all powerful drivers for travelers planning their next trip.

Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in London, England, UK.

England (+130%1)

A perennially popular destination for Americans, England reinforced its top-of-mind status during the World Cup events thanks to a dramatic, backs-against-the-wall campaign, helping convert football buzz into renewed interest in London, legendary stadiums and classic match day culture.  Scotland (+130%1)

A World Cup performance dominated by tireless running and unforgettable fan support, Scotland’s Tartan Army turned World Cup host cities throughout the United States into joyful parties.

And that has made the northern United Kingdom country (famous for its castles, history and lush green landscapes), feel every bit as warm, witty and welcoming to Americans as its fans.

Turkey (+225%)

Turkey’s last-gasp win over the USA gave the team a memorable tournament sign-off, helping turn gameday emotion into renewed travel appeal for Middle East destination known for big-city energy, coastline escapes and standout cuisine.

Algeria (+295%)

Algeria’s knockout-stage momentum and the wave of celebrations it sparked at home gave the country a feel-good global spotlight, helping turn football pride into fresh travel curiosity around its atmosphere, heritage and culture.

Norwegian national flag in front of colorful houses in Bergen, Norway.

Norway (+70%1)

Composed, creative and impossible not to like. Norway’s feel-good run in the World Cup, backed by the now-viral Viking Row and star striker, turned the country into a bucket-list travel pick for globetrotters drawn to fjords, cool-city breaks and uplifting national pride.

Aerial view over Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Brazil (+100%1)

Flair, rhythm and pure entertainment. Brazil’s trademark drama and style once again made it one of the tournament’s most magnetic teams, translating naturally into travel appeal for a South American country known for its beaches, music, nightlife and football culture.

Argentina (+120%1)

Argentina’s emotional journey and the enduring pull of their famous Captain kept the country at the center of the global conversation, inspiring fans to experience the passion of Buenos Aires and beyond for themselves.

The Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona, Spain.

Spain (+50%1)

Spain’s title-winning campaign gave the country the ultimate halo effect, turning on-pitch brilliance into fresh travel appeal for a destination already loved for its historic and vibrant cities, picturesque coastlines, outstanding food and football culture.

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