Classic Vacations® has released its 2025 holiday travel forecast, providing invaluable insights and guidance for discerning travelers and travel advisors alike. As the holiday season approaches, luxury travel continues to rise, with an increasing demand for immersive, high-end experiences. Classic Vacations offers its network of travel advisors the tools and support they need to deliver exceptional client experiences, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable holiday getaway. From Europe’s sparkling cities to the warm beaches of the Caribbean, 2025 promises a holiday season full of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. Here’s a closer look at the top destinations and trends for the upcoming season.

Trending Holiday Destinations for 2025

Classic Vacations has identified several key destinations that are expected to attract large numbers of luxury travelers in 2025. Europe, particularly cities like Paris, Rome, and London, remains the crown jewel for festive escapes. These cities come alive in late November and December, with enchanting holiday lights, bustling markets, and vibrant energy that draws visitors from all over the world. The Italian Alps, including destinations like Cortina d’Ampezzo, Val Gardena, and Madonna di Campiglio, are also gaining popularity, particularly as the 2026 Winter Olympics approach. These destinations offer charm, affordability, and proximity to the upcoming Olympic Games in Italy.

For those seeking a mountain escape closer to home, U.S. destinations such as Aspen, CO, Big Sky, MT, and Deer Valley, UT, are shaping up to be popular choices. These ski resorts are not only offering festive events and après-ski parties, but also expanding wellness programming to appeal to a broader audience. And for those craving sunshine, warm-weather favourites like Maui, Kauai, HI, Turks & Caicos, and St. Lucia remain top choices for multigenerational groups and families seeking a tropical escape during the holidays.

Holiday Travel Booking Trends

Booking patterns for 2025 show a shift towards shorter booking windows, with many travelers locking in their holiday plans just 30 to 60 days before departure. Flexible work schedules and varying family availability during the holiday season contribute to this trend, as more people plan their getaways closer to the holiday period. Luxury travelers are also increasingly seeking all-inclusive experiences, opting for resorts that offer complete freedom of choice within their itineraries. Properties like Grand Velas in Mexico and Fairmont Kea Lani in Maui are top choices, offering not just five-star accommodations, but immersive, memory-rich experiences that make each stay truly special.

Wellness-focused holidays are also on the rise, as more travelers look to relax, recharge, and prioritise self-care during the holiday season. Whether it’s pampering spa treatments, guided hiking trails, or outdoor adventures, the demand for wellness travel is increasing. For larger groups or families, villa buyouts are becoming more popular. Resort villas and multi-bedroom suites provide the perfect balance between privacy and togetherness, and many properties are enhancing these stays with private chefs, festive decorations, and exclusive activities tailored to families.

Traveler Motivations: Experience Over Gifts

One of the most notable trends for the 2025 holiday season is the shift from material gifts to experiences. More travelers are choosing to “gift” themselves and their loved ones with memorable travel experiences instead of traditional presents. Whether it’s a private vineyard tour, a festive dinner by the beach, or a family getaway in the mountains, these experiences create lasting memories that outshine any material item. Travelers are also opting to break from tradition, choosing to explore new destinations and experiences rather than hosting family gatherings at home. This shift reflects a broader desire for personal connections and unique experiences that transcend traditional holiday expectations.

Personalizing Holiday Travel Experiences

Luxury travelers in 2025 are seeking holidays that reflect their values and preferences. Whether it’s celebrating a cultural tradition like Hanukkah or Christmas with unique activities, or enjoying a private sunset sail in Mexico, personalization is key. Clients are increasingly opting for experiences that are tailored to their desires, allowing them to embrace holidays in ways that resonate with their individual culture, traditions, and lifestyle. Whether it’s shopping for luxury gifts in Paris, celebrating festive rituals in the Italian Alps, or enjoying a private holiday celebration in the Caribbean, personalization ensures each holiday is as meaningful as it is memorable.

Classic’s Top Tips for Holiday Travel

Classic Vacations offers valuable advice for both travelers and travel advisors planning for the 2025 holiday season. First, booking early is crucial to securing the best rooms, upgrades, and availability at top properties. Many of the most sought-after holiday getaways fill up quickly, especially beachfront escapes and luxurious mountain lodges. Booking in advance ensures travelers get access to premium experiences and exclusive perks that are often unavailable as the season approaches.

Working with a travel advisor is another essential tip. With Classic Vacations’ exclusive partnerships with luxury hotels and resorts, advisors can offer their clients special extras like holiday dinners, spa credits, and private celebrations. Whether it’s crafting a custom itinerary or arranging unique activities, travel advisors are the key to curating the perfect holiday experience. With expert guidance, travelers can rest easy knowing their holiday is planned seamlessly, leaving them more time to enjoy the magic of the season.

Classic’s Favorite Stays for the Holidays

For those looking for an extraordinary holiday experience, Classic Vacations has handpicked a range of top luxury properties to suit every taste. In Europe, Ashford Castle in Mayo, Ireland, offers a magical holiday retreat where guests can enjoy fireside Christmas storytelling, private screenings in the castle’s historic theatre, and a visit from Santa across Lough Corrib. In Italy, Villa d’Este in Cernobbio is a festive wonderland with lavish décor, gourmet dining, and a New Year’s Eve gala complete with fireworks and live jazz.

For those seeking a more tropical holiday, Grace Bay Club in Turks & Caicos offers family-friendly festive programming, including seafood buffets, live culinary stations, and fireworks over the Caribbean. Mandarin Oriental, Canouan in St. Vincent & the Grenadines offers refined holiday experiences, from Christmas Eve dinners with live music to vibrant New Year’s Eve soirées.

In Hawaii, the Fairmont Kea Lani in Maui and the Fairmont Orchid on the Island of Hawaii combine island tradition with holiday spirit, featuring tree lightings, cookie decorating, and Santa’s arrival by outrigger canoe. For a luxurious mountain escape, The Little Nell in Aspen offers elegant programming, including ice bar pop-ups, candlelit yoga, and après-ski champagne sabering events.

Conclusion

As the 2025 holiday season approaches, Classic Vacations has provided travel advisors with essential insights and resources to help craft the perfect luxury getaway. Whether travelers are seeking snow-capped mountain resorts, sun-kissed beach retreats, or cultural escapes in Europe, the opportunities for immersive, personalised travel experiences are limitless. With holiday bookings in full swing, it’s important for both travelers and travel advisors to plan early, ensuring the best availability and access to premium experiences. From world-class accommodations to exclusive, curated activities, the holidays are an opportunity to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

The post 2025 Holiday Travel Forecast: Discover Luxury Destinations for Your Dream Getaway, New Update is Here appeared first on Travel And Tour World.