Published on
November 25, 2025
As winter approaches, travel demand remains strong, according to the latest Winter Travel Index released by Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform. Despite ongoing economic uncertainties, the study reveals that 60% of travelers are planning trips this winter, with 45% indicating they are traveling more than they did last year. The findings show an impressive mix of cold urban destinations and warm-weather escapes, reflecting the diverse preferences of winter travelers.
The Winter Travel Index also sheds light on the evolving patterns of winter travel, with more people prioritizing experiences over other travel expenses. Notably, the study shows that travelers are more willing to spend this season, with over half of respondents (52%) indicating they plan to spend more than they did in previous years. This optimism is a clear sign that, despite financial concerns, the desire to explore new destinations and create meaningful memories remains strong.
A Diverse Mix of Cold and Warm-Weather Destinations
The report highlights a shift in the types of destinations travelers are choosing for their winter holidays. While traditional cold-weather cities like New York City and London top the list, sunny beach destinations like Cancun and Bangkok are also popular choices for travelers looking for warm escapes during the winter months. This blend of urban and beach destinations reflects the varied preferences of travelers, who seek both the charm of winter cities and the relaxation of tropical getaways.
For U.S. travelers, there is a noticeable split between those preferring cold destinations, such as New York City, and those opting for warm destinations like Las Vegas, Orlando, and Key West. International travelers are also heavily favoring sunny destinations, with Mexico’s top spots such as Cancun leading the charge, followed by popular cities in Europe and Asia.
Travelers’ Focus on Experiences and Extended Stays
The Winter Travel Index also reveals that most travelers are prioritizing enriching activities during their trips. A remarkable 93% of travelers agree that experiences are an important part of their travel budget, with 84% planning to engage in activities during their trips. Cultural sightseeing ranks as the most popular travel activity (38%), followed by nature sightseeing (37%) and shopping (31%). Road trips (28%) are also a favorite among many travelers.
In terms of the duration of their trips, the majority of travelers (83%) are planning one to two trips this season. More than half (54%) are opting for extended stays of five nights or more, suggesting that people are seeking more immersive experiences and quality time in their chosen destinations.
Popular Destinations for Domestic and International Travelers
The Winter Travel Index also breaks down the most popular destinations for both domestic and international travelers. For domestic travelers in the U.S., New York City, Las Vegas, and Key West lead the pack, followed by Orlando. On the international front, London, Bangkok, Cancun, and Paris are the top destinations, demonstrating a blend of classic urban destinations and international beach resorts.
The index highlights the growth of certain destinations that have seen increased interest from travelers over the past year. Domestic growth leaders include New York City, Key West, and Hamburg in Germany, while international growth leaders include Prague, Shanghai, Mecca, and Nha Trang in Vietnam. These emerging destinations reflect the increasing diversity in travel preferences, as people seek new, less crowded destinations alongside traditional tourist hotspots.
U.S. Traveler Preferences: Domestic and International Choices
For U.S. travelers, the Winter Travel Index reveals a strong preference for both domestic and international travel. New York City, Las Vegas, and Key West are the most popular domestic destinations, while Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Cabo San Lucas in Mexico are the top international choices. These destinations align with broader trends observed across the travel industry, with travelers seeking both vibrant city experiences and relaxing beach vacations.
The choice of destinations by U.S. travelers reflects broader travel trends, where people seek both cultural experiences in major cities and beachside relaxation in sunny locales. Mexico’s close proximity to the U.S. makes it a popular choice, offering a quick escape to warm weather during the colder months.
Emerging Travel Experiences: Adventure and Cultural Tourism
Travelers continue to prioritize activities during their winter travels, with 93% agreeing that experiences play a key role in their travel budget. Among the most popular experiences booked in the U.S. are cultural tours, day trips, and adventure tours. Some of the best-rated tours include the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise and the Washington D.C. Highlights tour. Adventure tours, such as the Exotic Car Driving Experience in Las Vegas, are also highly popular among travelers looking for unique and thrilling experiences.
Emerging categories in the experience market include historical tours, with visitors seeking out rich cultural experiences in cities like Boston and Charleston. Attractions such as the NASA Kennedy Space Center and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona also draw significant interest, offering visitors iconic cultural landmarks to explore.
Generational Differences in Travel Preferences
The Winter Travel Index also explores how travel behaviors differ across generations. Younger travelers, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, are more inclined to prioritize activities and experiences during their trips. While 47% of Gen Z and 48% of Millennials prioritize activities, only 40% of Gen X and 32% of Baby Boomers share the same preference. Younger travelers also tend to plan more ambitious itineraries, with nearly one-third visiting three or more cities during their biggest winter trip.
Travel motivations also vary by generation. For example, relaxation is more important for Boomers and Gen X, with 51% of each generation prioritizing rest and relaxation. In contrast, meeting new people is a key motivation for 24% of Gen Z travelers, compared to just 11% of Baby Boomers. These generational differences underscore the varying social and travel priorities that shape travel trends during the winter season.
Holiday Season Travel Trends: Connecting with Loved Ones
Seasonal factors play a significant role in winter travel decisions, with 86% of travelers citing the holiday season as a driving factor behind their plans. Family connections and cultural experiences are top priorities during this time, with travelers increasingly focused on making memories and connecting with loved ones. The emphasis on meaningful travel experiences reflects the growing desire to escape daily routines and spend quality time with family and friends during the holiday season.
Conclusion: The Winter Travel Index Reveals Optimism Amidst Uncertainty
Despite the economic challenges facing many travelers, the Winter Travel Index from Tripadvisor reveals a strong demand for winter travel. With 60% of travelers planning trips this winter and many expecting to spend more than in previous years, the travel industry shows signs of resilience. The popularity of both cold urban destinations and warm-weather escapes reflects a diverse set of travel preferences, while the focus on experiences highlights the evolving nature of winter travel.
As travelers seek memorable experiences and opportunities to connect with others, the Winter Travel Index provides valuable insights into the future of travel. With cultural sightseeing, adventure tours, and beach escapes continuing to dominate the winter travel landscape, 2025 promises to be a year of exploration and new experiences for travelers worldwide.
