Home » European Travel News » Thailand, Germany, Vietnam, France, and Italy Shine as the Most Sought-After Winter Travel Spots for Indian Tourists: Everything You Need to Know
Published on
December 27, 2025
As winter sets in, Thailand, Germany, Vietnam, France, and Italy have emerged as the most sought-after travel destinations for Indian tourists in December 2025. These countries are capturing the imagination of travelers due to their unique blend of easy accessibility, vibrant cultural experiences, and festive charm. Thailand continues to top the list for its affordability and short travel time, while Germany, with its iconic Christmas markets, attracts families and senior travelers. Vietnam’s budget-friendly appeal and France’s winter magic make them popular among young professionals and families alike, while Italy’s rich history and culinary delights draw in couples and history enthusiasts. Together, these destinations offer something for every type of traveler this winter season.
As winter 2025 approaches, a new report from ACKO unveils the top five international destinations Indians are flocking to, based on insights from travel insurance policies issued this December. The findings highlight a growing preference for visa-friendly, experience-rich locations that offer diverse attractions, alongside a sharp rise in family travel and interest from young professionals and students.
Thailand: The Undisputed Leader in Winter Travel
Thailand remains the frontrunner as the most popular winter destination for Indian travellers. The country’s consistent appeal is driven by its visa-on-arrival ease, short flight durations, affordability, and a variety of experiences catering to all age groups. Thailand attracts not only young professionals seeking short escapes but also families and working adults looking for both relaxation and adventure. The appeal of Thailand’s beautiful beaches, cultural heritage, and bustling cities continues to make it a top choice for Indian travellers seeking a convenient and affordable winter getaway.
Germany: A Winter Wonderland for Families and Seniors
Germany ranks second, with its magical Christmas markets, festive ambiance, and scenic winter landscapes. The country’s timeless appeal, especially in cities like Munich, Berlin, and Cologne, draws a significant number of families, working adults, and senior travellers. The holiday season’s charm is further amplified by Europe’s unique winter offerings, which continue to captivate Indian visitors seeking a blend of cultural experiences, winter festivities, and rich history. Germany’s easy accessibility and the warmth of its hospitality make it a preferred choice for long-haul travellers.
Vietnam: A Budget-Friendly Rising Star
Vietnam has rapidly emerged as a sought-after winter destination, especially for young professionals and students looking for budget-friendly options. With simplified visa procedures and affordable travel costs, Vietnam presents an attractive proposition for those seeking a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation without breaking the bank. The country’s scenic landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage continue to attract a wide range of visitors, making it one of the most age-diverse destinations this winter season.
France: The Pinnacle of Romance and Winter Celebrations
France, the epitome of art, culture, and seasonal celebrations, remains a firm favourite among Indian travellers. The country’s winter charm, with its iconic landmarks, festive markets, and rich cultural offerings, draws families and professionals seeking a romantic winter getaway. Whether it’s the allure of Paris, the festive spirit of Lyon, or the serene beauty of the French Alps, France continues to provide a variety of experiences that attract Indian tourists during the colder months, offering both relaxation and cultural immersion.
Italy: History, Cuisine, and Festive Vibes
Italy completes the list of top winter destinations, appealing to those with a penchant for history, art, and fine cuisine. From the romantic canals of Venice to the festive streets of Rome and Florence, Italy offers a rich cultural experience that resonates with families and couples alike. The country’s winter festivals, coupled with its historic landmarks, make it a top destination for Indians seeking to experience Europe’s unique charm during the holiday season.
Who’s Travelling This Winter?
This winter, Indian travellers are largely driven by families and working adults aged 30 to 49, who make up the largest share of multi-person trips across most destinations. Young professionals aged 20 to 29, who prefer shorter-haul destinations, are flocking to places like Thailand and Vietnam. Students under 20 are also active, with destinations like the UAE and Vietnam leading their travel choices. Interestingly, senior travellers, particularly those over 50, are increasingly opting for long-haul destinations like Germany and the United States, drawn to cultural experiences and winter getaways that offer both relaxation and exploration.
Cities Leading the December Travel Surge
Bengaluru, Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Pune, Chennai, Gurugram, Kolkata, Noida, and Ahmedabad have emerged as key cities driving the surge in outbound travel this winter. The demand spans both metropolitan cities and emerging urban centres, with a noticeable rise in travel activity from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, reflecting the growing accessibility and appeal of international travel across India.
Travel Categories Seeing Significant Growth
Family travel is the fastest-growing segment this winter, contributing the largest share of passengers for international destinations. This trend is particularly noticeable during the winter holidays, with families seeking destinations that offer a combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Solo travel is also experiencing steady growth, especially to popular destinations like Thailand, the USA, and the UAE. While still smaller in scale compared to family travel, solo trips are increasingly popular among those looking to explore new places independently.
Couple travel continues to show stable growth, with Southeast Asia emerging as the preferred region for romantic getaways. Destinations like Thailand, Bali, and Vietnam continue to attract couples looking for both leisure and cultural immersion during the winter months.
In Conclusion
The winter travel season of December 2025 sees Indians flocking to destinations that offer convenience, rich cultural experiences, and a wide range of attractions. From the sunny beaches of Thailand to the winter wonderlands of Europe, family travel and young professionals are leading the charge, while an increasing number of students and senior travellers are exploring both short-haul and long-haul destinations. This growing interest reflects both the changing dynamics of Indian travel preferences and the increasing demand for international experiences. As winter unfolds, these top destinations will continue to shape the travel landscape for Indian tourists in 2025.