Winter 2025 is shaping up to be one of the busiest cold-season travel periods in years.
According to Tripadvisor’s Winter Travel Index, 60 percent of travelers are planning at least one trip, and nearly half say they’ll travel more this winter than last year. Bookings are already up by 45 percent year-over-year, reflecting a surge in demand for both classic winter sunshine trips and cultural urban getaways.
Cost still plays a major role in planning, but travelers appear increasingly willing to invest in experiences, with more than half expecting to spend more on travel than last winter.
The season’s trends reveal clear generational differences, strong interest in longer stays, and a mix of familiar favorites and fast-rising destinations.
Winter Travel Trends
Trip Frequency and Budget Priorities
Most travelers plan one or two trips this winter, with 54 percent choosing stays of five nights or more. Cost remains the top consideration across all age groups, yet confidence in travel spending remains high, with 52 percent expecting to spend more than last year.
Experience-Driven Travel
Travelers are placing a strong emphasis on activities. Ninety-three percent consider experiences an essential part of their travel budget, and 84 percent say planned activities shape their itinerary.
Cultural sightseeing leads at 38 percent, followed closely by nature-focused trips at 37 percent, with shopping and road trips also popular.
Generational Differences
Generational preferences continue to diverge. Relaxation is a top priority for Boomers and Gen X at 51 percent, while only 37 percent of Gen Z places rest at the top of their list.
Gen Z travelers are far more interested in meeting new people, at 24 percent compared to just 11 percent of Boomers. Younger travelers also tend to plan more active itineraries, often visiting multiple cities in a single trip.
Domestic Winter Destinations
Top Domestic Cities
Across global markets, the leading winter destinations for domestic travel include New York City, Las Vegas, London and Key West.
These cities continue to attract travelers seeking a mix of experiences, from holiday events to nightlife and warm-weather escapes.
Year-Over-Year Domestic Growth Leaders
Several destinations are seeing notable rises in domestic interest this winter. New York City and Key West lead the list, followed by Hamburg and Anaheim, both experiencing a strong increase in bookings.
U.S. Traveler Favorites
For U.S. travelers specifically, the most popular domestic destinations are New York City, Las Vegas, Orlando and Key West. The combination of entertainment, attractions and winter sunshine continues to make these cities top picks.
International Winter Destinations
Global Favorites
Internationally, London, Bangkok, Cancun and Paris rise to the top. This mix illustrates the season’s two dominant travel styles: classic winter sun and culture-rich cities.
Rising International Destinations
Travelers are also showing strong interest in emerging hotspots. Prague, Shanghai, Mecca and Nha Trang are among the fastest-growing destinations this year.
U.S. Travelers Abroad
American travelers overwhelmingly choose warm, tropical destinations during the winter months. Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cabo San Lucas and Bavaro lead the list, driven by easy access, resort options and reliable sunshine.
