France, Spain, Germany, England, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Ireland Dominate as Top European Getaways for U.S. Travelers in 2025-26

Published on December 17, 2025

France, Spain, Germany, England, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Ireland dominate the list of top European getaways for U.S. travelers in the 2025-26 holiday season due to their unique combination of cultural richness, iconic landmarks, festive charm, and diverse attractions. These countries continue to capture the hearts of American tourists, offering everything from the romance of Paris and the ancient history of Rome to the winter magic of Vienna’s Christmas markets and the snow-capped beauty of the Swiss Alps. Whether travelers are seeking historic sites, vibrant city life, or picturesque winter landscapes, these destinations provide a perfect mix of experiences, making them the most sought-after European escapes for the season.

London’s magnetic charm is undeniable, with its blend of historical significance, festive charm, and modern energy. The British capital’s iconic Christmas markets, spectacular West End productions, and the timeless beauty of neighborhoods like Notting Hill ensure that it remains a top choice for American visitors. London’s rich history, including landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the British Museum, continues to captivate travelers from around the world, making it a must-visit destination every winter.

Paris, France, retains its position in second place. The French capital, with its romantic atmosphere and blend of culture, art, and history, draws millions of visitors every year. The city’s holiday lights along the Champs-Élysées and its world-famous attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame, make it a popular choice for travelers seeking a magical winter escape. Paris remains an all-time favorite for Americans looking for a mix of charm and sophistication during the festive season.

In third place, Rome, Italy, climbs the ranks this year, having swapped places with Madrid, which now holds fourth. Rome’s rich cultural heritage, ancient monuments, and vibrant atmosphere make it a perennial favorite for tourists. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican are just a few of the world-famous sights that attract visitors to the Eternal City. Madrid, though in fourth place, continues to offer a dynamic blend of art, food, and holiday spirit, making it a strong contender for travelers seeking both tradition and modernity.

Rounding out the top five, Dublin, Ireland, is a beloved destination known for its welcoming spirit, cozy pubs, and historic charm. The Irish capital offers a relaxed yet festive atmosphere, with highlights including St. Stephen’s Green, Temple Bar, and the Guinness Storehouse. Dublin is also the perfect gateway for travelers wishing to explore Ireland’s stunning natural beauty, from the Cliffs of Moher to the Ring of Kerry.

Beyond the top five, the ranking remains largely consistent with last year’s results. Amsterdam in the Netherlands holds steady in sixth place, known for its picturesque canals, vibrant holiday lights, and cozy cafes. The city’s art museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, are perfect places to enjoy the winter season, making Amsterdam an ideal destination for culture lovers.

Frankfurt in Germany claims seventh place, thanks to its famous Christmas markets and festive spirit. The city’s proximity to the picturesque Rhine Valley and its impressive skyscraper skyline make it an interesting mix of old and new. Munich, also in Germany, follows in eighth place, offering travelers an authentic Bavarian winter experience with its traditional beer halls, holiday markets, and scenic alpine surroundings.

Barcelona in Spain takes ninth place, offering a more temperate climate compared to many northern European cities. Known for its modernist architecture, including the works of Antoni Gaudí, and its vibrant cultural scene, Barcelona provides a unique holiday experience. Lisbon in Portugal rounds out the top ten, attracting those in search of a more relaxed winter escape. Lisbon’s mild climate, historic neighborhoods, and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite for travelers looking to avoid the colder temperatures of other European destinations.

Zurich, Switzerland, and Milan, Italy, maintain their spots in eleventh and twelfth place, respectively. Zurich, with its proximity to the Swiss Alps, is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, while Milan’s fashion-forward style and festive events continue to draw visitors.

In the second half of the ranking, Athens and Edinburgh have swapped positions, now in thirteenth and fourteenth places. Athens, with its ancient monuments and historical significance, attracts travelers seeking culture and history, while Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is known for its medieval charm and the famous Edinburgh Castle.

Vienna in Austria, known for its imperial architecture and Christmas markets, takes fifteenth place, while Copenhagen, Denmark, enters the top 20 for the first time at sixteenth. Copenhagen’s cozy winter atmosphere, historic sites, and innovative culinary scene make it a new favorite for travelers.

Manchester in England drops to seventeenth place, while Geneva in Switzerland claims eighteenth. Geneva, with its stunning views of the snow-capped Alps and its role as a hub for international organizations, continues to be a popular winter destination. Venice in Italy falls to nineteenth place, and Brussels, Belgium, drops four spots to twentieth, reflecting a slight decrease in American interest.

These rankings reflect Americans’ growing desire for diverse winter experiences, from the snowy holiday markets of cities like Munich and Vienna to the milder, sun-soaked escapes in Barcelona and Lisbon. Europe offers an array of destinations that cater to different tastes, from culture and history to shopping and seasonal events.

Safety remains a priority for American travelers, and Europe continues to rank highly in this regard. The Netherlands leads the safety rankings, followed by Austria, Iceland, Switzerland, Ireland, Belgium, Portugal, France, the UK, and Denmark. While Iceland is renowned for its safety, it does not appear in the top 20 destinations this year, highlighting the diversity of options available for winter travelers.

France, Spain, Germany, England, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and Ireland dominate as top European destinations for U.S. travelers in 2025-26, thanks to their rich cultural heritage, iconic landmarks, and festive winter atmospheres that continue to captivate American tourists. These countries offer a perfect blend of history, charm, and seasonal appeal, making them the ideal winter getaways.

Ultimately, Europe’s top destinations offer something for everyone, whether seeking a traditional winter wonderland or a mild, relaxed escape. The continent’s blend of culture, history, and festive spirit ensures that it will remain a top choice for American travelers in 2025 and beyond.