Holiday Travel Guide 2025: Top Destinations and Tips for a Magical Season

2024-11-10

Richard Shane
Founder and CEO
The World’s Greatest Vacations

 

The holiday season is the perfect time to create special memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter escape, a festive city experience, or a sunny getaway, 2025 offers incredible holiday travel destinations that cater to all types of holiday magic. From Europe’s iconic Christmas markets to tropical escapes and festive U.S. hotspots, here are the best places to spend the holidays this year, along with travel tips to make the most of the season.

1. New York City, USA: A Classic Holiday Wonderland

There’s no place like New York City during the holidays. From the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the dazzling holiday windows along Fifth Avenue, the city turns into a sparkling wonderland. Watch the Radio City Rockettes, skate at Bryant Park’s Winter Village, or take a stroll through Central Park blanketed in snow. Be sure to book hotels early, as December is one of the busiest times for travel to NYC.

2. Vienna, Austria: The Heart of Christmas Markets

Vienna’s Christmas markets are some of the most iconic in Europe, and they create a truly festive atmosphere. Sip mulled wine as you browse handmade crafts, savor delicious holiday treats, and admire the twinkling lights and historic architecture. Don’t miss the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas market for a touch of regal elegance. Vienna also boasts cozy cafes and classical music concerts, adding a cultural touch to the holiday season.

3. The Maldives: Sun-Soaked Festivities

If the winter cold isn’t for you, head to the Maldives for a tropical holiday escape. Many of the luxurious resorts offer holiday packages that include festive meals, activities, and beachside celebrations. Spend your days snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on white sandy beaches, and enjoy Christmas or New Year’s feasts under the stars. This sunny getaway is perfect for couples or families looking for a warm and relaxing holiday.

4. Lapland, Finland: Meet Santa and the Northern Lights

For a truly magical holiday experience, head to Lapland in Finland, where you can meet Santa Claus in his official hometown, take a reindeer sleigh ride, and watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky. Families will love Santa’s Village and Santa Park, while adventurous travelers can enjoy dog-sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. The cozy lodges and snow-covered landscapes make Lapland a winter wonderland like no other.

5. Aspen, Colorado: Winter Sports and Cozy Cabins

Aspen offers a quintessential winter getaway with stunning mountain views, skiing, and cozy lodges. Spend the day on the slopes, then warm up by the fire in a charming cabin or enjoy après-ski in one of Aspen’s trendy bars. The town’s festive decorations, boutique shopping, and family-friendly winter activities make it an ideal holiday escape.

6. Paris, France: Holiday Romance and Lights

Paris during the holidays is pure romance. From the illuminated Champs-Élysées to the Eiffel Tower’s festive sparkle, the City of Lights lives up to its name. Enjoy holiday markets, ice skating under the Eiffel Tower, and seasonal treats like spiced wine and gourmet chocolates. For a special New Year’s Eve, dine at one of Paris’s Michelin-starred restaurants and watch fireworks along the Seine River.

7. Tokyo, Japan: A Futuristic Festive Season

Tokyo celebrates Christmas and New Year’s in a uniquely Japanese way. The city comes alive with stunning illuminations, especially around areas like Shibuya, Roppongi, and Marunouchi. Enjoy seasonal Japanese treats, see festive light displays, and even visit Tokyo Disneyland for its holiday-themed events. Tokyo’s mix of tradition and modernity creates a fascinating holiday atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else.

8. Mexico City, Mexico: Warm Culture and Festive Fiestas

Mexico City’s vibrant holiday celebrations offer a unique blend of tradition and festivity. Explore beautifully decorated churches, participate in “Las Posadas” (Mexican holiday processions), and enjoy traditional Mexican holiday foods like tamales and ponche (hot fruit punch). The warm weather and bustling markets make Mexico City a lively and inviting holiday destination.

9. Edinburgh, Scotland: Hogmanay and Historic Charm

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Edinburgh, where the city’s famous Hogmanay celebrations light up the Scottish capital. The festivities include torchlight processions, fireworks, street parties, and traditional Scottish music. During December, the Edinburgh Christmas Market adds even more charm, with festive lights, rides, and holiday treats.

10. Thailand: Warm Weather and Tropical Festivities

For a unique holiday experience, head to Thailand, where the warm beaches and tropical landscapes offer a serene escape from winter’s chill. Many beach resorts hold Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, complete with fireworks, beachside dinners, and cultural performances. This tropical holiday destination is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a laid-back, festive vibe.

Holiday Travel Tips for 2025

Book early: Holiday travel can get busy, so plan flights, accommodations, and activities well in advance to secure the best options.
Consider off-peak travel dates: Traveling a few days before or after peak holiday dates can help you save on costs and avoid crowds.
Pack for the season: Whether you’re heading to snowy mountains or sunny beaches, be sure to pack for the climate. And if you’re visiting a snowy destination, remember the essentials like waterproof gear and layered clothing.
Look for holiday packages: Many destinations offer holiday packages that include festive meals, special activities, and even discounts for extended stays.

The holiday season is the perfect time to create special memories with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter escape, a festive city experience, or a sunny getaway, 2025 offers incredible holiday travel destinations that cater to all types of holiday magic. From Europe’s iconic Christmas markets to tropical escapes and festive U.S. hotspots, here are the best places to spend the holidays this year, along with travel tips to make the most of the season. 1. New York City, USA: A Classic Holiday Wonderland There’s no place like New York City during the holidays. From the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree to the dazzling holiday windows along Fifth Avenue, the city turns into a sparkling wonderland. Watch the Radio City Rockettes, skate at Bryant Park’s Winter Village, or take a stroll through Central Park blanketed in snow. Be sure to book hotels early, as December is one of the busiest times for travel to NYC. 2. Vienna, Austria: The Heart of Christmas Markets Vienna’s Christmas markets are some of the most iconic in Europe, and they create a truly festive atmosphere. Sip mulled wine as you browse handmade crafts, savor delicious holiday treats, and admire the twinkling lights and historic architecture. Don’t miss the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas market for a touch of regal elegance. Vienna also boasts cozy cafes and classical music concerts, adding a cultural touch to the holiday season. 3. The Maldives: Sun-Soaked Festivities If the winter cold isn’t for you, head to the Maldives for a tropical holiday escape. Many of the luxurious resorts offer holiday packages that include festive meals, activities, and beachside celebrations. Spend your days snorkeling, diving, or relaxing on white sandy beaches, and enjoy Christmas or New Year’s feasts under the stars. This sunny getaway is perfect for couples or families looking for a warm and relaxing holiday. 4. Lapland, Finland: Meet Santa and the Northern Lights For a truly magical holiday experience, head to Lapland in Finland, where you can meet Santa Claus in his official hometown, take a reindeer sleigh ride, and watch the Northern Lights dance across the sky. Families will love Santa’s Village and Santa Park, while adventurous travelers can enjoy dog-sledding, ice fishing, and snowshoeing. The cozy lodges and snow-covered landscapes make Lapland a winter wonderland like no other. 5. Aspen, Colorado: Winter Sports and Cozy Cabins Aspen offers a quintessential winter getaway with stunning mountain views, skiing, and cozy lodges. Spend the day on the slopes, then warm up by the fire in a charming cabin or enjoy après-ski in one of Aspen’s trendy bars. The town’s festive decorations, boutique shopping, and family-friendly winter activities make it an ideal holiday escape. 6. Paris, France: Holiday Romance and Lights Paris during the holidays is pure romance. From the illuminated Champs-Élysées to the Eiffel Tower’s festive sparkle, the City of Lights lives up to its name. Enjoy holiday markets, ice skating under the Eiffel Tower, and seasonal treats like spiced wine and gourmet chocolates. For a special New Year’s Eve, dine at one of Paris’s Michelin-starred restaurants and watch fireworks along the Seine River. 7. Tokyo, Japan: A Futuristic Festive Season Tokyo celebrates Christmas and New Year’s in a uniquely Japanese way. The city comes alive with stunning illuminations, especially around areas like Shibuya, Roppongi, and Marunouchi. Enjoy seasonal Japanese treats, see festive light displays, and even visit Tokyo Disneyland for its holiday-themed events. Tokyo’s mix of tradition and modernity creates a fascinating holiday atmosphere you won’t find anywhere else. 8. Mexico City, Mexico: Warm Culture and Festive Fiestas Mexico City’s vibrant holiday celebrations offer a unique blend of tradition and festivity. Explore beautifully decorated churches, participate in “Las Posadas” (Mexican holiday processions), and enjoy traditional Mexican holiday foods like tamales and ponche (hot fruit punch). The warm weather and bustling markets make Mexico City a lively and inviting holiday destination. 9. Edinburgh, Scotland: Hogmanay and Historic Charm Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Edinburgh, where the city’s famous Hogmanay celebrations light up the Scottish capital. The festivities include torchlight processions, fireworks, street parties, and traditional Scottish music. During December, the Edinburgh Christmas Market adds even more charm, with festive lights, rides, and holiday treats. 10. Thailand: Warm Weather and Tropical Festivities For a unique holiday experience, head to Thailand, where the warm beaches and tropical landscapes offer a serene escape from winter’s chill. Many beach resorts hold Christmas and New Year’s celebrations, complete with fireworks, beachside dinners, and cultural performances. This tropical holiday destination is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a laid-back, festive vibe. Holiday Travel Tips for 2025 Book early: Holiday travel can get busy, so plan flights, accommodations, and activities well in advance to secure the best options. Consider off-peak travel dates: Traveling a few days before or after peak holiday dates can help you save on costs and avoid crowds. Pack for the season: Whether you’re heading to snowy mountains or sunny beaches, be sure to pack for the climate. And if you’re visiting a snowy destination, remember the essentials like waterproof gear and layered clothing. Look for holiday packages: Many destinations offer holiday packages that include festive meals, special activities, and even discounts for extended stays. Ready to make this holiday season one to remember? Start planning with www.theworldsgreatestvacations.com and create memories that will last a lifetime!