Rio de Janeiro Tops Christmas Travel Searches from US Airports

For holiday travelers in 2025, Rio de Janeiro in Brazil emerges as the most popular international destination for Christmas and New Year's trips, favored for its beaches, nightlife, and cultural attractions, according to Google Flights data. Following Rio, the Caribbean island of St. Lucia and Marrakech, Morocco, are also top trending warm-weather spots for the festive season. Meanwhile, European favorites for Christmas holidays include traditional markets in Germany, France, and the Czech Republic, with Germany's Christmas markets offering festive charm from big cities to small towns, featuring mulled wine, local foods, and collectible mugs. In the United States, the Danish-themed town of Solvang, California, provides a cozy alternative with its Julefest celebration, including caroling, candlelight tours, and European-style night markets, making it a unique winter destination close to Los Angeles. Thanksgiving travel trends show a preference for domestic U.S. destinations like Columbia, South Carolina, and Bozeman, Montana, capitalizing on local culture and outdoor activities. Overall, the holiday travel landscape blends warm escapes, traditional European festivities, and unique local celebrations to suit diverse traveler preferences.