Airbnb Report: Emerging destinations redefine winter travel this season

This winter, travel trends are shifting toward lesser-known destinations that offer a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and easy city access. Here's a snapshot of the emerging hotspots redefining winter travel in 2025–2026:

Global Winter Travel Trends
- Italy: Leading the charge with a surge in interest, especially in Olympic host regions like Trentino-South Tyrol, Lombardy, and Veneto. Lombardy alone saw triple-digit growth in searches.
- Adventure + Accessibility: Travelers are favoring destinations that blend urban convenience with outdoor escapes.

Trending Global Destinations
- Australian Capital Territory, Australia: Combines Canberra’s city life with bushland serenity.
- Santiago Metropolitan Region, Chile: Offers vibrant city culture and nearby mountain retreats.
- Goslar, Germany: A snowy medieval town in the Harz Mountains with UNESCO charm.
- Prachuap Khiri Khan, Thailand: Quiet beaches, coral reefs, and national parks.
- San José, Costa Rica: Urban energy meets lush cloud forests and coffee traditions.
- State of Goiás, Brazil: Waterfalls, caves, and colonial towns in sunny savannas.
- Cordoba, Colombia: Caribbean coastal towns and mangrove hikes.

U.S. Winter Travel Shifts
- Hidden Ski Towns: Brighton, UT and McCall, ID are gaining traction over crowded resorts.
- Beach Escapes: Artsy towns like Bay St. Louis, MS and Anna Maria, FL are popular among sun-seekers.
- Snowbirds 60+: Flocking to Florida for longer stays, with top picks like The Villages and Fort Myers Beach.
- Family Travel: 80% of U.S. families are choosing suburban and rural getaways, favoring multi-bedroom homes for longer stays.

These trends reflect a growing desire for immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences that balance comfort, culture, and nature.