Chinese travellers are gearing up for Golden Week 2026, with Seoul, Singapore, and Bangkok emerging as the top overseas destinations, according to Trip.com Group data. Outbound flight bookings to these cities have increased year-on-year, with many travellers combining the Golden Week and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays for an extended break. Departures are expected to peak on 1 October, the first day of the official holiday.
The extended holiday period is encouraging longer trips, with a notable rise in hotel bookings for stays of seven nights or more. Multi-destination itineraries have surged by 84% year-on-year, reflecting a growing trend among travellers to maximise their time abroad. Popular combinations include Singapore and Bali, Hong Kong and Sydney, and Amsterdam and Milan.
Nature and coastal destinations are also gaining traction, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z. Searches for scenic trips have increased by 53% year-on-year, with Queenstown and Auckland seeing flight bookings rise by 314% and 276%, respectively.
In addition to outbound travel, China is experiencing a boost in inbound tourism during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Lesser-known cities like Yanji, Dunhuang, and Hailar are witnessing significant increases in flight bookings, whilst major cities such as Shanghai and Beijing continue to attract visitors. China’s rich cultural heritage and attractions, including the Mutianyu Great Wall and Shanghai Disney Resort, are drawing tourists from across Asia and beyond.
