October 9, 2025 
5 mins to read Every year, thousands of young people take the leap and take a gap year abroad. They start living abroad, developing independence and getting valuable work experience at the same time. Taking the decision to move and spend a gap year abroad is one thing, but knowing where to go is another.
We offer you the 5 best countries for a gap year abroad in 2026. These countries have it all: great working opportunities, possibilities for fun adventures, much more sunshine than you are used to in Northern Europe, and much more! Keep reading to find out more about these 5 countries.
Gap year abroad in Spain
Spending your gap year abroad in Spain is something a lot of other young people have done before you, and they have loved every minute of it. Cities like Barcelona and Valencia have become increasingly popular as gap year destinations. Eat tapas on the promenade, go to the beach after work and enjoy the slower lifestyle in Spain during your gap year there.
You will also like the lower costs of living, compared to Northern-Europe. At the same time, gap year jobs can pay quite well. Working in Spain during your gap year can give your CV the boost it may need. Next to working you get the opportunity to explore the vibrant life in Barcelona, Madrid or Valencia. We are sure you will make new friends while living your best life under the Spanish sun!
Go surfing during your gap year in Portugal
A lot of young expats deciding what country to pick for a gap year, will be torn between Spain and Portugal. The countries are somewhat similar, but there are differences. Just like in Spain, you can enjoy great weather and find valuable gap year jobs in Portugal. The costs of living in Portugal are lower, even in big cities like Porto and Lisbon.
Pick Portugal if you would like to spend a year developing your surfing skills. The country is seen as the capital of surfing in Europe. Explore this beautiful country by visiting the big cities and islands like Madeira or the Azores. Living in Portugal really gives you the space to reflect, grow, and build new routines.
Malta; gap year in the sun
If sunshine is what you are looking for during your gap year abroad, Malta is the place to be. This island has over 300 days of sunshine every year. Life is way more relaxed in Malta, because there are no ‘big’ cities. Communicating in Malta is also easier, because English is an official language of the country.
If you are ready to live outside for an entire year, pick Malta as your destination for your gap year in 2026. The location also makes Malta a gateway to other travel destinations. During your gap year abroad you can use your free time to explore travelling and enjoy the expat life.
Indulge yourself in ancient Greece during your gap year
Another country and another place with more sunshine than your Northern-European home. Greece is a country with an ancient history, but also with modern life opportunities. Your senses will never get bored in Greece. Beaches, islands, mountains, charming villages, olive groves, and more!
Athens is one of the most intriguing cities in Europe. It could become your new hometown, or you could spend multiple weekends in this city during your gap year abroad in Greece. Experience life in this city where ancient history meets modern day life. The Greek people (and the other expats living there) are known for their social skills. If you start living in Greece during your gap year, you will spend more time socializing with people than on your phone checking social media.
Surprising country for a gap year: Bulgaria
Maybe Bulgaria isn’t on your mind when you decide to take a gap year in 2026, but we advise you to really consider this interesting country. Bulgaria is really affordable. It is the cheapest country in this list, making it possible to save money while living your dream life abroad.
In comparison to the other countries on this list, Bulgaria isn’t flooded with tourists every year. But life is really interesting, especially in the capital Sofia. Experience a culture influenced by three different regions: Eastern Europe, the Balkans and the old Ottoman world. Sofia is very cultural, especially in art, design, and music. So if you want to explore that creative side of yours, consider spending your gap year in 2026 in Bulgaria.
Why you should go for a gap year in 2026
After working as a customer service advisor in Valencia, it could become easier to find a great job when you are back in your home country. Employers see experience in working abroad as a good thing. It shows that you are responsible, not scared to take a risk and that you can adapt to new situations.
Job Squad can help you find a job in one of these destinations. We offer a lot of job opportunities, but we do way more for you. Use our CV builder tool to professionalise your CV. Contact one of our recruiters to get personal help with finding your perfect job abroad.
You only live once, and the chance of going on an adventure gap year doesn’t come by very often in life. Maybe you just graduated, or you finished high school and don’t know what to do with your life. A gap year abroad can fill in this period, and can help you decide what you want to do in the future. So take the leap and pick one of these 5 best countries for a gap year in 2026 as your next destination.
