Summer vacation 2026 isn't quite over yet or is still to come, but it's already worth taking a look at the calendar for next year. Those who plan their days off early can squeeze out several long weekends even in a rather unfavorable holiday year and often secure better prices for hotels, vacation homes, and flights at the same time.
Because although several holidays in 2027 fall on weekends, there are still attractive opportunities for short trips or longer journeys. Those who book early not only benefit from a larger selection but often also from more affordable deals. The German Travel Association (DRV) recently pointed out that more and more people are becoming early bookers. Germans decided on their summer vacation in 2026 even earlier than usual. The popular travel times are then quickly booked up.
These holidays are particularly worthwhile in 2027
Not all holidays work in employees' favor in 2027. Labor Day (May 1st) falls on a Saturday, as does the first day of Christmas. German Unity Day (October 3rd) and the second day of Christmas fall on Sundays. These days off are thus lost for many workers.
Nevertheless, the year offers several attractive opportunities. Good Friday (March 26th) and Easter Monday (March 29th) provide four consecutive days off as usual without any vacation days needed. Also classically convenient - as always - is Ascension Day on Thursday, May 6th. Those who can take Friday off get a long weekend.
Whitsun with Whit Monday on May 17th is also suitable for a break. In Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, Hesse, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rhineland-Palatinate, and Saarland, Corpus Christi follows just ten days later on Thursday, May 27th - also ideal for a bridge day.
Why early booking can save real money
Especially around holidays, demand increases significantly. Vacation homes, family hotels, or accommodations in popular regions are often in demand many months in advance. And since, according to the DRV, more and more travelers are securing their summer and short vacations early, the selection becomes significantly smaller later on. Because demand is then high, the whole thing often becomes more expensive.
Additional tip: Flexible travel dates and alternative arrival or departure days such as Tuesday or Wednesday at the edge of long weekends can additionally help find cheaper prices and avoid traffic jams.
Bridge days conclusion
Those who use their vacation days strategically can enjoy several longer breaks in 2027 as well. Bridge days around Ascension Day and Corpus Christi as well as the Easter holidays are particularly worthwhile, as they can be cleverly extended with just a few vacation days.
Just as important as looking at the calendar is choosing the right booking time. Those who plan early usually have a larger selection of accommodations and more often benefit from cheaper prices. Especially on long weekends, the most popular travel destinations are often in high demand months in advance.
