Americans’ Winter Wanderlust: Exploring Europe During the Festive Season

The twinkling lights of European Christmas markets, centuries-old holiday traditions, and the thrill of winter sports continue to draw Americans across the Atlantic during the festive season. According to recent data from travel insurer Allianz Partners, which analyzed 165,000 booking inquiries for trips between November 26, 2025, and January 6, 2026, Europe’s major cities remain the top destinations for American holidaymakers. While traditional favorites still dominate the list, there’s a growing trend toward more adventurous choices as travelers seek authentic European winter experiences. The data reveals not only where Americans are heading but also what they’re looking for in their end-of-year escapes – a blend of familiar comforts, cultural immersion, and festive magic that can only be found in Europe’s historic cities during the winter months.

London continues to reign supreme as the most popular European destination for Americans during the holiday season, claiming the top spot for the second consecutive year. It’s not difficult to understand why – the British capital transforms into a winter wonderland with attractions like Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, the spectacular Christmas lights along Oxford Street, and the festive atmosphere of Covent Garden. Beyond the seasonal decorations, London offers world-class museums and theaters, making it a perfect destination for culture enthusiasts seeking indoor activities during chilly winter days. The city strikes an ideal balance between festive charm and familiar comforts, making it particularly appealing for first-time transatlantic travelers or those planning shorter trips. For many Americans, London serves as a gentle introduction to European winter holidays – familiar enough to navigate with ease yet distinctly different in its Christmas traditions and historic backdrop.

Romance seekers are flocking to Paris and Rome, which secured the second and third positions respectively. The French capital, with its elegant Christmas markets at Tuileries Garden and La Défense, iconic landmarks adorned with seasonal lights, and warm, inviting cafés, creates the perfect setting for couples seeking a romantic winter getaway. Meanwhile, Rome is gaining popularity among American travelers, perhaps inspired by the upcoming season of “Emily in Paris.” The Eternal City offers a compelling alternative with its rich 2,700-year history, relatively mild Mediterranean winter temperatures, and UNESCO-recognized cuisine. Imagine strolling through ancient streets decorated for Christmas, attending midnight Mass at the Vatican, or savoring authentic Italian holiday dishes in a cozy trattoria – experiences that embody the romantic appeal drawing Americans to these European capitals. Both cities offer a magical backdrop for creating holiday memories, combining cultural depth with festive ambiance in ways uniquely their own.

For those Americans seeking more vibrant celebrations, Madrid and Dublin hold particular appeal, ranking fourth and fifth respectively. Madrid attracts visitors with its lively New Year’s Eve tradition in Puerta del Sol, where locals and tourists gather to eat twelve grapes at midnight – one with each clock strike – for good luck in the coming year. The Spanish capital combines sophisticated cultural offerings with energetic nightlife, making it ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in celebration. Dublin, meanwhile, offers a different but equally enticing festive experience, with its legendary pubs providing warm refuges from winter weather, traditional Irish music sessions, and the famous Irish hospitality that makes even visitors feel like locals. Both cities present opportunities for Americans to participate in authentic European traditions while enjoying spirited celebrations that extend well into the night, creating the perfect balance of cultural immersion and holiday revelry that many travelers seek during this special season.

Beyond the top five, Americans are spreading out across Europe’s diverse cities, each offering unique winter experiences. Amsterdam (6th) enchants with its illuminated canal bridges and Sinterklaas celebrations, while Frankfurt (7th) beckons with Germany’s oldest Christmas market dating back to 1393. Barcelona (8th) provides a Mediterranean twist on winter holidays, with Catalan Christmas traditions and milder weather than its northern counterparts. Munich (9th) embodies the quintessential German Christmas experience with its spectacular Christkindlmarkt in Marienplatz and hearty Bavarian winter cuisine. Rounding out the top ten is Lisbon, Portugal’s sun-drenched capital, which has steadily risen in popularity among American travelers seeking winter warmth without crossing hemispheres. These varied destinations demonstrate how Americans are increasingly sophisticated in their European travel choices, seeking out not just the obvious capitals but cities that offer distinctive seasonal traditions, culinary experiences, and cultural immersion – from savoring Portuguese pastéis de nata in near-springlike weather to ice skating on Amsterdam’s frozen canals.

The data also reveals emerging trends, with Vienna and Copenhagen making significant jumps in popularity. Vienna climbed five positions to reach 15th place, as Americans discover its imperial Christmas markets, magnificent classical concerts, and proximity to Austria’s world-class ski resorts. The city’s elegant coffeehouses and grand architecture provide the perfect backdrop for a refined winter holiday. Copenhagen’s entry into the top 20 signals Americans’ growing interest in Nordic winter traditions, from the hygge-filled atmosphere of candlelit cafés to the fairy-tale inspiration of Tivoli Gardens’ Christmas market. The Danish capital’s exceptional culinary scene – home to several world-acclaimed restaurants – adds gastronomic appeal to its winter charm. These rising destinations reflect a maturing travel pattern among Americans, who increasingly seek authentic winter experiences beyond the most familiar European cities. Whether motivated by cultural exploration, culinary adventures, or simply the desire to experience Christmas traditions different from their own, Americans continue to view Europe as the ultimate backdrop for meaningful winter holidays – a trend that shows no signs of waning as travelers plan their 2025-2026 festive getaways.