MIDAS Travel bleisure travel insights 2026: Where business travellers are extending their trips
The line between business travel and leisure travel continues to blur.
Whether it’s adding a long weekend after a conference, bringing family along on an overseas trip, or simply making the most of a flight that’s already booked, “bleisure travel” has become an increasingly popular way for business travellers to see more of the world.
At MIDAS Travel, we’ve seen this trend first-hand.
Using our own booking data from 2026 to date, we’ve analysed the destinations our travellers visit most frequently and identified some of the best locations for turning a business trip into something more memorable.
What is bleisure travel?
Bleisure travel combines a business trip with leisure time.
A traveller may attend meetings, visit clients or participate in an event before extending their stay for a few days of sightseeing, relaxation or exploration.
While bleisure travel is nothing new, changing workplace attitudes, greater flexibility and an increasing focus on work-life balance appear to be driving demand. For many professionals, a business trip represents an opportunity to experience a new destination without the cost of a separate long-haul flight.
MIDAS Travel insights: Top bleisure travel destinations in 2026
Based on MIDAS Travel booking data from 2026, several destinations stand out as favourites for travellers looking to combine work with leisure.
UK & Ireland: Don’t overlook domestic bleisure travel
Interestingly, our ten most visited rail destinations are all within the UK and Ireland, demonstrating that bleisure opportunities don’t always require a passport.
Glasgow: The gateway to adventure
Many travellers visit Glasgow for business, but it’s also one of the best starting points for extending a trip into the Scottish Highlands.
A short drive can take you from city meetings to dramatic mountain landscapes, historic castles and some of Scotland’s most famous lochs. For travellers looking to combine work with outdoor adventure, Glasgow offers the best of both worlds.
Dublin: Small city, big personality
Dublin remains a firm favourite for city break bleisure travel.
Compact enough to explore on foot and packed with character, it’s an ideal city for adding an extra day or two after meetings conclude. Visitors can enjoy historic landmarks, live music, excellent restaurants and, of course, the city’s famous hospitality.
The real attraction of Dublin isn’t just the sights; it’s the atmosphere.
London: Always something new
Even frequent visitors are often surprised by how much London changes.
From world-class theatre and cultural exhibitions to new restaurant openings and hidden neighbourhood gems, there is always a reason to stay a little longer.
For many travellers, London remains one of the easiest and most rewarding cities for a short bleisure travel extension.
Europe’s top bleisure travel destinations
Our 2026 booking data highlights three standout European destinations:
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam continues to attract business travellers thanks to its international business community, excellent transport links and walkable city centre.
For leisure time, visitors can enjoy canal cruises, museums, cycling routes and vibrant dining districts, all within easy reach.
St Helier, Jersey
For those seeking a slower pace after a busy schedule, Jersey provides the perfect escape.
Beautiful coastlines, seafood restaurants and scenic walking routes help travellers unwind while remaining just a short flight from the UK.
Copenhagen / Billund, Denmark
Denmark is proving increasingly popular among MIDAS travellers.
Copenhagen offers a blend of modern business infrastructure, sustainability and culture, while Billund provides a surprisingly unique extension, particularly for those travelling with family thanks to its famous attractions and relaxed atmosphere.
Long-haul bleisure travel favourites
Manila, Philippines
One of our most popular long-haul destinations in 2026, Manila often serves as a gateway to wider exploration.
Travellers extending their stay can access stunning beaches, island resorts and cultural experiences within easy reach of the capital.
Houston, USA
Houston has emerged as one of our strongest-performing US destinations.
Beyond its reputation as an energy and business hub, visitors can enjoy excellent food, museums, sports and easy access to wider Texas attractions.
Dubai, UAE
Despite disruptions earlier in the year affecting regional travel, Dubai remains a highly requested destination among MIDAS travellers. Travellers should always check the latest guidance for their destination before travelling, particularly when planning to extend a business trip into personal travel.
With airlines returning to normal schedules and business confidence remaining strong, the city continues to offer an attractive mix of world-class hotels, beaches, shopping, dining and entertainment.
Planning a successful bleisure travel trip
If you’re considering extending a business trip, planning ahead is essential.
Some useful considerations include:
- Check your company’s travel policy before booking personal extensions
- Clearly separate business and leisure expenses where required
- Ensure accommodation and travel arrangements are adjusted to cover additional nights
- Confirm insurance coverage for any personal travel element
- Understand who is responsible for traveller support outside business travel dates
A corporate travel management company can often help navigate these requirements and ensure the transition between business and leisure travel is handled smoothly.
Not sure what’s covered under your company’s travel policy?
Speak to your MIDAS Travel consultant before booking any leisure extension and we’ll help you understand your options.
Can your Travel Management Company help?
Many business travellers assume their travel management company can only arrange the business element of a trip. In reality, support often extends much further.
At MIDAS Travel, we regularly help travellers coordinate both business and personal travel requirements, ensuring itineraries remain seamless while providing expert guidance throughout the booking process.
Coverage, support arrangements and out-of-hours assistance can vary depending on company travel policies and the leisure element of the booking, so it’s always worth discussing your plans with your travel consultant before confirming any extensions.
MIDAS Travel Bleisure Travel Trends 2026
Based on MIDAS Travel booking data for 2026, the most popular destinations for combining business and leisure travel include Glasgow, Dublin, London, Amsterdam, Jersey, Copenhagen, Billund, Manila, Houston and Dubai.
Why bleisure travel is here to stay
Our 2026 booking data suggests that business travellers are increasingly looking for more from their trips.
Whether it’s a weekend exploring the Scottish Highlands after meetings in Glasgow, an extra day discovering Copenhagen, or extending a long-haul visit to Manila or Dubai, travellers are finding new ways to combine professional commitments with personal experiences.
As business travel continues to evolve, bleisure travel is likely to remain one of the biggest opportunities for companies and travellers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bleisure travel?
Bleisure travel is the combination of business travel and leisure travel, where a traveller extends a work trip for personal time.
Can I add personal travel onto a business trip?
In most cases yes, although travellers should check company travel policies, insurance requirements and expense procedures before extending a trip.
Does a travel management company book bleisure trips?
Many travel management companies, including MIDAS Travel, can assist with both business and leisure elements of a trip.
Which destinations are best for bleisure travel?
Popular bleisure destinations include Amsterdam, Dublin, Copenhagen, Dubai, London and Manila due to their mix of business infrastructure and leisure attractions.
Thinking about introducing bleisure travel into your travel programme?
Our consultants can help businesses create practical travel policies that balance traveller wellbeing, compliance and cost control.
USEFUL LINKS
- The ultimate pre-travel checklist for stress-free corporate trips – MIDAS Travel Blog
- Executive Leisure Travel – MIDAS Travel Website
