Dubrovnik, Croatia Beats Budapest, Rome, Madrid and More in New 2026 Ranking of the Best Screen-Free Summer Escapes, Redefining How Europe is Winning the Digital Detox Travel Boom

Written By: Tuhin Sarkar

Tuhin Sarkar

Tuhin Sarkar is a Senior Journalist at Travel and Tour World with more than 10 years of experience in travel and tourism journalism. A post-graduate in Journalism and Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, he combines strong research, industry knowledge and storytelling expertise to produce engaging, insightful and impactful travel news and fascinating feature stories.

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July 7, 2026 17:08 GMT+5:30

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Dubrovnik, Croatia beats Budapest, Rome, Madrid and more in a new 2026 ranking of the best screen-free summer escapes, proving Europe is leading the digital detox travel boom like never before.

Dubrovnik, Croatia beats Budapest, Rome, Madrid and more in the new 2026 ranking of the best screen-free summer escapes, and the results are redefining how Europe is winning the digital detox travel boom. As travellers increasingly seek holidays that prioritise wellbeing over constant connectivity, this latest study highlights destinations where safety, green spaces and walkable streets make it easier to disconnect from devices. Moreover, the rankings reveal that memorable travel experiences no longer depend on staying online. Instead, they show why more visitors are choosing authentic outdoor adventures, mindful exploration and healthier holidays that encourage them to put their phones away.

Dubrovnik has been named the world’s best destination for a screen-free summer escape in 2026, thanks to its high safety levels, extensive green spaces and walkable streets. A new study by Overnight Glasses also places Budapest, Hanoi, Rome and Split among the top destinations where travellers can disconnect from digital devices and spend more time outdoors.

As smartphones and laptops continue to dominate everyday life, more travellers are actively searching for holidays that encourage them to switch off rather than stay connected. A new study released by eyewear brand Overnight Glasses identifies the world’s leading destinations for a digital detox, highlighting places where safety, nature, walkability and outdoor experiences combine to make unplugging easier and more rewarding.

The research places Dubrovnik, Croatia, at the top of the global rankings for a screen-free summer holiday, while eight of the ten highest-ranked destinations are located across Europe. The findings suggest that cities with accessible parks, pedestrian-friendly streets and a strong sense of safety create the ideal conditions for travellers to leave their phones behind and enjoy a more mindful holiday experience. A June 2026 report on digital detox travel found that Dubrovnik is the best summer destination for a screen-free escape. A new study by the eyewear brand Overnight Glasses reveals the cities where travelers can truly unplug

Here are the 10 best summer destinations for a screen‑free escape:

Why Is Digital Detox Travel Becoming More Popular?

Digital detox holidays have evolved from a niche wellness trend into one of the fastest-growing travel preferences worldwide, particularly as people spend increasing amounts of time on screens for work, entertainment and communication. Travellers are now seeking destinations that naturally encourage walking, outdoor exploration and face-to-face experiences instead of constant scrolling and digital distractions.

The study found that successful screen-free destinations share several characteristics, including high levels of personal safety, significant green space, excellent walkability and easy access to outdoor attractions. Researchers also assessed average screen time and broadband speeds, with destinations offering fewer digital temptations receiving higher overall scores.

Dubrovnik Emerges as the World’s Best Screen-Free Destination

Dubrovnik claimed the highest overall Screen-Free Escape Score of 100 after performing strongly across nearly every category included in the research. The Croatian coastal city combines a safety score of 82.2 with green spaces covering approximately 38% of the urban area, while its walkability score of 91 makes exploring the historic city simple without relying on transport.

Summer temperatures average a comfortable 31°C, creating pleasant conditions for sightseeing, coastal walks and beach visits without becoming excessively hot. Visitors can also choose from around 250 outdoor attractions and 47 parks and natural areas, providing plenty of opportunities to stay active without turning to digital entertainment.

Budapest and Hanoi Offer Outstanding Value for Digital Detox Holidays

Budapest secured second place thanks to its impressive combination of affordability, extensive greenery and excellent pedestrian infrastructure. Nearly half of the Hungarian capital consists of green spaces, while its walkability score of 98 makes it one of Europe’s easiest cities to explore entirely on foot.

Average daily travel costs stand at approximately $150, making Budapest considerably more affordable than several Western European destinations in the rankings. Visitors can also enjoy almost 100 outdoor attractions and 119 parks while experiencing average summer temperatures of around 29°C.

Hanoi finished third and stood out as the most affordable destination among the leading five, with average daily costs estimated at just $63. The Vietnamese capital also boasts an exceptional 5,713 outdoor attractions—more than ten times the number recorded in any other destination included in the study—offering travellers an extraordinary variety of experiences beyond their screens.

Rome and Split Complete the Top Five

Rome secured fourth place by combining rich cultural heritage with abundant outdoor spaces and outstanding walkability. Nearly half of the Italian capital is covered by parks and green areas, while a walkability score of 99 allows visitors to explore historic neighbourhoods, ancient monuments and lively public squares with ease.

The Eternal City also offers 587 outdoor attractions and 210 parks, making it one of the most diverse destinations for travellers seeking both history and nature. Although summer temperatures reach around 32°C, sightseeing remains enjoyable with suitable planning and hydration.

Split rounded out the top five by offering an attractive balance between coastal relaxation, accessibility and outdoor recreation. Visitors benefit from comfortable summer temperatures of around 30°C, average daily costs of $186 and more than 280 outdoor attractions spread throughout the city, alongside parks and open spaces covering more than one-third of the urban landscape.

Europe Dominates the Global Rankings

Europe’s strong representation is one of the study’s most notable findings, with eight of the top ten destinations located across the continent. Besides Dubrovnik, Budapest, Rome and Split, the rankings also include Florence, Madrid, Palermo and Yerevan, demonstrating that European cities continue to provide ideal environments for slow, experience-focused travel.

Outside Europe, Hanoi and Bali represent Asia, each offering a different style of digital detox. While Hanoi impresses with affordability and thousands of outdoor attractions, Bali appeals through its extensive natural landscapes, beaches and more than 700 parks and nature sites.

How the Rankings Were Calculated

Rather than focusing solely on scenery or popularity, the research evaluated destinations using several measurable indicators that directly influence a traveller’s ability to disconnect from technology. Safety and green space formed the foundation of the overall score because travellers are naturally more likely to spend time outdoors when they feel secure and have access to attractive natural surroundings.

Researchers also considered walkability, access to nature, the number of outdoor attractions, broadband speed and average screen time within each destination. Lower digital distraction combined with stronger opportunities for outdoor exploration resulted in higher overall rankings for screen-free travel.

Experts Say Nature Is the Best Remedy for Screen Fatigue

According to Gidon Sadovsky, CEO of Overnight Glasses, the ideal summer holiday should provide genuine relief from constant screen exposure rather than simply offering a change of scenery. He explains that prolonged use of smartphones, tablets and computers often contributes to eye strain, fatigue and dryness, making time spent outdoors an important part of maintaining visual comfort.

He recommends choosing destinations with safe walking routes, generous green spaces and scenic landscapes that encourage travellers to focus on distant natural views instead of digital notifications. Such environments allow the eyes to relax while promoting healthier travel experiences built around movement, fresh air and meaningful real-world connections.

A Growing Shift Towards Mindful Summer Travel

The latest rankings reflect a wider shift in global travel preferences as more holidaymakers place greater value on wellbeing alongside sightseeing. Rather than filling itineraries with constant online updates, travellers increasingly want destinations where they can slow down, enjoy nature and create memorable experiences without feeling tied to their devices.

Whether exploring Dubrovnik’s historic streets, wandering through Budapest’s green parks or discovering Hanoi’s countless outdoor attractions, the study suggests that the most rewarding holidays may simply be those where the phone spends more time in a pocket than in a hand.

The growing demand for digital detox holidays is being driven by rising screen fatigue, work-related stress and increasing awareness of eye health. Consequently, travellers are actively searching for destinations that encourage outdoor activities instead of constant mobile use. The study answers this demand by identifying cities with high safety, abundant green spaces, excellent walkability and countless outdoor attractions. These factors naturally reduce reliance on smartphones while creating more meaningful travel experiences. Therefore, Dubrovnik emerged as the leading destination because it combines all these qualities, offering visitors an environment where disconnecting from technology becomes both comfortable and genuinely enjoyable.

The latest 2026 ranking sends a clear message that travel is evolving beyond traditional sightseeing towards experiences centred on wellbeing, mindfulness and genuine human connection. Dubrovnik, Croatia has earned its position at the top by offering a balanced combination of safety, attractive green spaces, comfortable summer weather and highly walkable streets that naturally encourage visitors to spend more time outdoors than online. Rather than relying on digital entertainment, travellers can immerse themselves in historic streets, coastal scenery and open-air experiences that reward curiosity instead of screen time.

Meanwhile, destinations including Budapest, Rome, Madrid, Florence, Split, Hanoi, Palermo, Bali and Yerevan demonstrate that digital detox travel is no longer limited to remote retreats. Modern cities can also provide ideal environments for switching off when they prioritise pedestrian-friendly design, accessible parks and safe public spaces. The dominance of European destinations further highlights how urban planning and lifestyle can influence healthier travel habits without sacrificing culture, history or convenience.

For travellers planning their next summer holiday, the findings offer practical guidance rather than simply another destination ranking. They show that choosing locations with abundant nature, outdoor attractions and relaxed surroundings can significantly improve both physical wellbeing and mental refreshment. As digital devices continue to dominate daily life, holidays that encourage genuine disconnection are becoming increasingly valuable. Ultimately, Dubrovnik’s first-place finish reflects a broader global movement towards slower, healthier and more meaningful travel, where unforgettable memories are created by exploring the real world instead of constantly looking at a screen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Dubrovnik ranked as the best screen-free destination?

Dubrovnik achieved the highest overall score because it combines excellent safety, extensive green spaces, strong walkability, pleasant summer temperatures and numerous outdoor attractions that encourage visitors to spend less time using digital devices.

Which city has the most outdoor attractions?

Hanoi leads by a significant margin with 5,713 outdoor attractions, offering more than ten times as many off-screen activities as any other destination included in the study.

Why does Europe dominate the rankings?

Many European cities feature compact layouts, pedestrian-friendly streets, extensive public parks and high safety standards, making them particularly suitable for travellers seeking digital detox holidays.

What factors were used to rank the destinations?

Researchers assessed safety, green space coverage, walkability, access to nature, outdoor attractions, average screen time, broadband speed and overall suitability for unplugging from digital devices.

Are digital detox holidays becoming more popular?

Yes. Growing awareness of screen fatigue, eye health and mental wellbeing is encouraging more travellers to choose holidays that prioritise outdoor activities, nature and reduced dependence on smartphones and other digital devices.