Tripadvisor recently released its annual Winter Travel Index revealing robust winter travel demand, with 60% of travelers planning trips and 45% indicating they’re traveling more this winter than last year. The comprehensive report shows a diverse mix of cold urban destinations and warm-weather escapes leading winter travel preferences, Tripadvisor said.
Most travelers (83%) are organizing one to two trips this season, with more than half (54%) committing to extended stays of five nights or more. Cost remains the primary consideration for travelers planning winter trips this season, yet despite economic uncertainties, they continue to show strong confidence in their plans and maintain optimistic spending expectations with more than half of travelers (52%) spending more this year.
The data reveals a split in winter destination preferences, with travelers seeking both cold urban experiences and warm-weather beach escapes. Globally, major cold-weather cities like New York City and London rank among top destinations alongside warm-weather favorites like Cancun and Bangkok. U.S. travelers reveal a clear cold-versus-warm divide, favoring New York City or warm spots like Las Vegas, Orlando and Key West, and overwhelmingly choosing sunny international destinations, all top three in Mexico.
Travelers are prioritizing itineraries full of activities and experiences, with 93% agreeing that experiences are an important part of their travel budget and 84% prioritizing planned activities during trips. Cultural sightseeing emerges as the dominant travel preference at 38%, followed by nature sightseeing (37%), shopping (31%) and road trips (28%).
Winter Travel Index: 2025 Top Winter Destinations
This year’s destination data reveals travelers seeking both familiar favorites and emerging hotspots, with 66% returning to known destinations while 34% venture to new locations.
Popular Destinations Globally for Domestic Travelers:
- New York City, United States
- Las Vegas, United States
- London, England
- Key West, United States
Trending Destinations Year-over-Year:
Domestic Growth Leaders:
- New York City, United States
- Key West, United States
- Hamburg, Germany
- Anaheim, United States
Winter Experience Trends & Activities
Activities and experiences remain central to winter travel planning, with 93% agreeing that experiences are an important part of their travel budget and 84% prioritizing planned activities during trips.
Generational Travel Behaviors
Age significantly influences travel patterns and priorities. Gen Z and millennials show greater enthusiasm for activities with 47% of Gen Z and 48% of millennials prioritize activities while traveling, compared to 40% of Gen X and 32% of baby boomers. Younger travelers also plan more ambitious itineraries, with nearly one-third visiting three or more cities during their biggest winter trip.
Travel motivations vary by generation, with relaxation more important to boomers (51%) and Gen X (51%) than Gen Z (37%). Conversely, meeting new people appeals to 24% of Gen Z travelers versus only 11% of boomers, highlighting different social priorities across age groups.
Holiday Season Impact
Seasonal factors drive 86% of winter travel decisions, with distinct regional preferences. The emphasis on family connections and cultural experiences reflects unique winter holiday traditions, with travelers increasingly prioritizing meaningful connections and memory-making with loved ones during the season.
