Top Winter Holiday Destinations for 2025 Travellers: A Season of Connection and Escape, All You Need To Know

Published on December 4, 2025

The 2025 winter holiday travel season is set to be one of the busiest yet, with Americans flocking to both domestic and international destinations to celebrate the holidays. According to Allianz Partners’ latest survey, 84% of travelers are confident they will embark on domestic and international adventures this winter, with a 3% increase in travel bookings compared to last year. This surge in travel demonstrates that Americans continue to prioritise meaningful experiences and connections, even in the face of economic challenges.

Allianz Partners’ annual ranking of top winter holiday destinations has revealed the most popular cities and resorts for 2025. Whether seeking festive cheer in the city, cultural experiences, or a warm-weather escape, travelers are embracing a variety of destinations this season. The survey of over 2,300 Allianz customers also highlights key travel motivations, with family reunions and holiday traditions leading the charge.

Domestic Destinations: Classic Winter Getaways

When it comes to domestic holiday travel, New York continues to reign supreme, topping the list for the fifth consecutive year. The city’s iconic holiday attractions, from the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the bustling holiday markets and festive spirit of Times Square, make it the ultimate destination for holiday travellers. Seattle and Orlando follow closely, with Seattle offering dazzling city lights and mountain views, and Orlando attracting families with its world-famous theme parks and seasonal events.

Phoenix and Salt Lake City round out the top five, offering both sun-drenched escapes and snow-covered adventures, making them appealing choices for travellers seeking a mix of relaxation and outdoor activities. Other popular domestic destinations include Miami, Los Angeles, Dallas, Las Vegas, and Atlanta, which collectively underscore the diversity of holiday travel preferences across the United States.

International Escapes: A Blend of Culture and Sun

For those venturing abroad, the 2025 winter season brings a mix of cultural cities and tropical paradises. Cancún leads the international destinations, where travelers are exchanging snowy landscapes for sandy beaches and warm weather. The allure of London continues to captivate visitors with its festive atmosphere, holiday lights, and traditional Christmas markets.

Other sought-after international destinations include San José del Cabo and Puerto Vallarta in Mexico, both offering a blend of vibrant culture and coastal relaxation. Punta Cana rounds out the top five, attracting sun-seekers with its all-inclusive resorts and stunning beaches.

Europe also sees significant interest, with Paris and Liberia (Costa Rica) joining the ranks of top destinations. Nassau, Montego Bay, and Aruba are also favored by those looking for a Caribbean escape, where the promise of tropical warmth and luxurious resorts await.

Holiday Travel Trends: Seeking Connection and Meaning

The survey also reveals the motivations driving travelers this holiday season. A significant 67% of respondents are travelling to reconnect with family and friends, underscoring the enduring importance of meaningful connections during the holidays. In addition, 20% of travellers cite cultural experiences as a key reason for travel, while another 20% seek to embrace holiday traditions, reflecting a shift towards more enriching and personal travel experiences.

Despite economic concerns, travelers are still planning to spend on quality experiences, with nearly half of them expecting to invest between $1,000 and $5,000 on their holiday trips. The growing preference for cultural engagement, coupled with the desire for holiday cheer, suggests that 2025 holiday travel will focus on enriching, soul-nourishing experiences.

Travel Protection and Early Planning

As winter weather and potential travel disruptions loom, Americans are prioritizing travel insurance to safeguard their plans. More than half (52%) of travelers express concerns about winter weather or potential delays, yet there is high confidence in overall travel plans. This confidence is reflected in the rising trend of early bookings, with 42% of respondents reserving their trips one to three months in advance and 30% booking four to six months ahead.

This early planning trend not only indicates strong demand but also the desire to secure favorable fares and ensure flexibility amidst unpredictable weather. Travel protection remains an essential consideration for many, with more Americans opting for coverage to protect their holiday memories from unexpected disruptions.

A Blend of Comfort and Convenience

The desire for both comfort and convenience is shaping travel choices for the 2025 winter season. Travelers are opting for direct flights and well-known resorts that promise a balance of ease, luxury, and affordability. The growing demand for flexible travel arrangements is also seen in the preference for destinations that cater to both long stays and quick getaways, providing a wide range of options for every type of traveler.

A Season of Connection and Exploration

The 2025 winter holiday season promises to be a time of both reunion and adventure, with a mix of classic city escapes and exotic beach destinations. Whether travellers are heading to New York to experience the festive cheer, jetting off to Europe for cultural enrichment, or escaping to the warm sands of Cancún, this season’s top destinations reflect a growing desire for connection, cultural immersion, and relaxation.

As holiday travel picks up and Americans embrace both tradition and new experiences, the 2025 season is set to be one filled with cherished memories and meaningful connections.