Changes in individual countries in 2026: what's changing and how to prepare
The year 2026 brings a series of rregulatory and organisational news that will directly affect travel planning, client counselling and operational processes in tourism. From monetary changes in Bulgaria, through new traffic rules in the Mediterranean, to digital toll collection in Croatia – tourism professionals will have to monitor changes in destinations even more carefully.
According to warnings from ÖAMTC experts, good preparation is becoming key, especially for guests travelling by car or planning to combine multiple countries during a single trip.
Bulgaria is moving to the euro and introducing a new daily vignette
From 1 January 2026, Bulgaria will join the eurozone, and the lev will cease to be the official currency. During the transitional period until the end of January, it will be possible to pay in both currencies, while from 1 February, the euro will become the sole legal tender. For tourists, this means simpler transactions and avoiding unfavourable exchange rates, especially in popular coastal destinations.
At the same time, the road system is being modernised. From 3 February 2026, introduced daily vignette, primarily intended for transit passengers heading to Greece and Turkey. The price of around four euros makes it a more affordable alternative to the existing weekly option.
There will be a moderate increase in the price of electronic vignettes in the Czech Republic. A daily vignette will cost around ten euros, and a ten-day vignette will cost around twelve. Since the vignettes are linked to the vehicle's registration number, it is recommended to purchase them through official online channels before departure.
New traffic rules in Greece and Spain
In Greece's urban zones, a general speed limit of 30km/h will be introduced from 2026. 30 km/h in residential and narrow streets, even without additional signage. The 50 km/h speed limit applies only to clearly marked main roads, and increased checks have also been announced.
Spain is introducing changes that are particularly important for users of rental car services. In the event of a breakdown or accident, classic safety triangles are no longer permitted. Instead, vehicles registered in Spain must have a yellow flashing beacon, which is placed on the roof and digitally marks the incident location. Rental car companies are required to equip vehicles with this device, and travellers are advised to check for it when picking up their car.
Digital toll collection in Croatia
Croatia, one of the most sought-after summer destinations in the region, will begin a complete digitalisation of toll collection from autumn 2026. Traditional toll booths will be gradually phased out, and the system will be based on licence plate registration or the use of an ENC device.
For vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes, both options will be available, while for heavier vehicles, ENC will be mandatory. Although the summer season of 2026 will still operate under the old model, the transition period begins in September. The aim is to reduce congestion and speed up traffic flow towards Istria and Dalmatia, which is important for both tour operators and individual guests.
Stricter rules for city break travel
Venice is further tightening measures against overtourism. The entry fee system for day-trippers is being expanded to 60 days a year, mainly on weekends and public holidays between April and July. Those who do not register in advance will pay double the price, and checks will be carried out at the main entry points into the city.
A low-emission zone is being introduced in Krakow from 1 January 2026. Petrol vehicles must meet Euro 4 standard, and diesel vehicles Euro 6. Foreign visitors are required to register their vehicle before entering the city, while a transitional period will be allowed with an additional fee until 2028.
Higher costs for natural attractions in the USA
Travellers from Europe heading to the US should prepare for increased costs when visiting national parks. From 2026, an additional fee will be introduced of 100 USD per person for foreign visitors to parks like Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite. Children under 16 are exempt from this fee.
With the mandatory ESTA application and rising airfare prices, a classic road trip through the USA is becoming significantly more expensive, so booking accommodation and campsites very early is recommended.
Travel in 2026 is increasingly linked to digital registrations, online payments, and administrative obligations. Vignettes, tolls, environmental zones, and tickets for cities and attractions are becoming a standard part of planning.
For travel agencies, tour guides and destination managers, this means a clear need to inform clients in a timely manner. Those who adapt to the new rules in time can avoid operational problems and additional costs, and provide a higher quality and safer travel experience for their guests.
