Every December, millions of Americans head to airports in search of sunshine, adventure, or simply a break from routine. Where people choose is a reflection of broader cultural, economic, and lifestyle trends. This year, Google released its annual holiday travel data, revealing the top holiday destination in 2025, and the results might surprise you.
Google’s Top Holiday Destination in 2025
So, what place captured the most attention for Christmas and New Year’s travel in 2025? The answer: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The city has topped Google’s list as the most searched international destination for U.S. travelers during the peak holiday season (December 21 to January 4).
Let’s take a closer look at why Rio rose to the top, what other destinations made the list, and what these 2025 Google travel trends reveal about how and where Americans want to spend their holidays.
Why Rio de Janeiro Leads the Pack
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A City Built for Celebration
Few places embody celebration like Rio de Janeiro. While the world knows Rio for its iconic Carnival, the city also throws one of the largest New Year’s Eve parties in the world: Réveillon on Copacabana Beach, where millions gather dressed in white to watch fireworks over the Atlantic. Pair this with December’s sunny weather, world-class beaches like Ipanema and Leblon, and a lively cultural scene, and it’s no wonder Rio topped the list of popular travel destinations in 2025.
Sunshine Over Snow
For many Americans, the allure of Rio isn’t just about celebration, but about climate. With average December temperatures hovering in the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit, Rio offers the ultimate escape from winter’s chill. While traditional holiday imagery revolves around snowy landscapes, the modern traveler increasingly favors destinations where they can trade coats for swimsuits.
Accessibility and Connectivity
Flight connectivity has improved, with major U.S. hubs offering direct or one-stop routes to Rio. Combined with competitive airfare pricing, especially when booked early, this makes Brazil more accessible than ever for Christmas travel in 2025.
Other Trending Destinations on Google’s Holiday List
Rio may have stolen the spotlight, but Google’s data also highlights several other best cities to visit in 2025 for the holidays.
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St. Lucia
The Caribbean island of St. Lucia appeals to travelers seeking luxury resorts, lush landscapes, and a mix of relaxation and adventure. Its volcanic beaches and iconic Pitons provide a dramatic backdrop for holiday getaways.
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech’s rise in popularity underscores a growing appetite for cultural immersion. The city offers bustling souks, ornate riads, and warm winter weather. For Americans craving something different, Marrakech is an increasingly sought-after 2025 Christmas travel pick.
Cancún, Mexico
No surprise here: Cancún remains a perennial favorite for U.S. travelers. Proximity, affordability, and the appeal of all-inclusive resorts make it an easy choice for families and groups seeking New Year’s travel options without a long-haul flight.
London, England
Not every traveler wants warmth. London consistently ranks high for the holidays thanks to its festive atmosphere—Christmas markets, ice skating rinks, and the countdown at Big Ben draw visitors who want a classic holiday feel.
Together, these destinations reflect a balance between tradition and novelty, showing how U.S. travelers are splitting their preferences between beach escapes and cultural capitals.
What Google’s 2025 Holiday Travel Trends Tell Us
Google’s insights don’t just tell us where people want to go; they also reveal how modern travel behavior is changing.
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Warm Weather Preference
The surge in searches for Rio, St. Lucia, and Cancun highlights a clear desire for sun-drenched destinations during the holidays. Escaping winter has become the defining feature of holiday travel in 2025.
Global Curiosity Expanding
The inclusion of Marrakech shows a willingness among U.S. travelers to venture beyond the usual beach resorts and European capitals. Americans are increasingly interested in popular travel destinations in 2025 that offer cultural depth, unique experiences, and a sense of discovery.
Early Planning and Smart Booking
Google noted that many of these trending destinations saw spikes in search volume months in advance. With rising airfares and busy airports, travelers are booking earlier, setting alerts, and using tools to secure the best deals.
Tips for the U.S. Travelers This Holiday Season
If Rio—or any of the other destinations—has sparked your imagination, here are some practical strategies to make your holiday trip smoother and more affordable.
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1. Book Early but Stay Flexible
Google recommends booking flights for international holiday travel at least three to five months in advance. However, keeping flexible travel dates can help you find savings, especially if you’re willing to depart a day before or after peak holiday dates.
2. Use Fare Alerts
Whether through Google Flights or travel apps like OneAir, set up alerts for your chosen destination. This way, you’ll be notified of price drops, helping you lock in the best possible fares for holiday travels in 2025.
3. Consider Alternative Airports
Flying into São Paulo and then connecting to Rio, or selecting airports near Cancún, can sometimes result in reduced costs. Always compare routes when researching popular travel destinations in 2025.
4. Bundle Flights and Hotels
Many booking platforms offer discounts when you bundle airfare with accommodations. For beach destinations like St. Lucia or Cancún, resort packages often represent significant savings.
5. Explore Off-Peak Options
If traveling during the exact holiday week is too expensive, consider celebrating a week earlier or later. You’ll still enjoy the festive atmosphere, but avoid peak pricing.
Takeaway
The fact that Rio de Janeiro tops the list of popular travel destinations in 2025 says a lot about how Americans want to spend their holidays: not bundled up in cold weather, but basking in sun, music, and global culture.
So, whether you’re considering Christmas travel in Brazil, ringing in the new year on a Caribbean beach, or soaking up holiday lights in London, one thing is clear: holiday travel has never been more diverse or more exciting.
If you’re looking to make the most of these 2025 Google travel trends, sign up for OneAir to access unpublished airfares and hotel discounts that make even peak-season trips affordable. With smart deal alerts and transparent pricing, you’ll have the edge in planning your perfect holiday getaway.
*Banner photo by skodonnell from Getty Images Signature
