Published on
November 6, 2025
US, Egypt, Spain, Malta, Morocco, Czech Republic, Turkey, Portugal, Romania and more are emerging as top festive destinations for Britons this Christmas, as travellers increasingly swap the cold and wet UK winter for sun, culture, and adventure abroad. From the beaches and resorts of the US, Egypt, Malta, Morocco, and Spain to city breaks filled with history, festivals, and seasonal charm in Ireland, the Czech Republic, Turkey, Portugal, Poland, and Romania, more UK holidaymakers are seeking warmth and memorable experiences. Recent data shows a surge in overseas bookings during Christmas week, highlighting the growing trend of winter sun and cultural escapes.
As the holiday season nears, a growing number of Britons are choosing to spend Christmas abroad rather than at home. Recent findings reveal that UK travellers are increasingly seeking sunny destinations and immersive experiences, marking a clear shift in festive travel patterns.
Data from a major online travel provider indicates a 20 per cent increase in overseas trips departing during Christmas week compared with last year. This surge suggests that more Britons are prioritising adventure, relaxation, and warm-weather escapes over traditional holiday routines.
The Canary Islands continue to dominate as the top choice for festive travellers. Famous for their golden sands, mild winter climate, and wide range of resorts, the islands have long been a favourite for UK tourists. In 2024, nearly 6.3 million Britons visited the Canary Islands, confirming their status as a premier winter sun destination.
Egypt has also seen a remarkable rise in demand, recording a 136 per cent year-on-year increase. Resorts such as Sharm El Sheikh, with its pristine beaches and renowned diving spots, are drawing increasing numbers of visitors seeking a combination of leisure and adventure.
Other favourites among UK travellers include Spain and the United States, both offering a mix of cultural highlights, iconic landmarks, and opportunities to soak up the sun. Mediterranean and North African destinations such as Malta and Morocco have also seen strong growth in bookings, increasing by 25 per cent and 20 per cent respectively, reflecting their growing appeal for holidaymakers.
City breaks are proving popular during the festive season, as travellers combine sightseeing with cultural festivities. Destinations including the Republic of Ireland, the Czech Republic, Turkey, and Portugal rank highly for those seeking a vibrant city experience alongside seasonal celebrations.
Even within the Canary Islands, travellers are exploring beyond the well-known resorts of Tenerife and Gran Canaria. Lesser-known islands such as La Palma are drawing interest for their serene landscapes, local culture, and unique attractions, offering personalised experiences away from the crowds.
For those seeking budget-friendly alternatives, several European destinations are gaining attention. Cities in Poland and Romania, for instance, provide charming Christmas markets, affordable hotel rates, and festive atmospheres. Mulled wine can cost as little as 86p, while hotel stays are available for around £35 per night, making these cities attractive options for cost-conscious travellers.
Britons aiming to escape the cold, damp UK winter still have plenty of sunny and affordable choices. Tunisia, Malta, Morocco, and the Canary Islands all offer pleasant temperatures, welcoming hospitality, and reasonable prices. From lounging on sun-kissed beaches to exploring historic sites and enjoying local festivities, these destinations offer a blend of relaxation, culture, and adventure for winter travellers.
The growing trend of overseas Christmas holidays highlights a broader change in festive travel habits. More UK residents are embracing experiences beyond the traditional home-based celebrations, seeking warmth, cultural immersion, and memorable adventures. Flexible booking options and attractive travel deals have further boosted the appeal of spending the festive season abroad.
US, Egypt, Spain, Malta, Morocco, Ireland, Czech Republic, Turkey, Portugal, Poland, Romania and more are topping festive travel as Britons swap cold UK winters for sun, culture, and memorable overseas experiences.
As 2025 approaches, it is clear that more Britons are choosing to trade the cold and wet winter at home for sunny escapes and unique experiences overseas. Whether enjoying a beach retreat in the Canary Islands, a diving holiday in Egypt, or a cultural city break in Europe, winter holidays abroad are increasingly becoming a key part of UK travellers’ festive plans.
