Visitors from the States are attracted by culture and cuisine.
New data shows which European destinations American travelers are choosing this winter, with Vienna and Copenhagen among the rising favorites. Among the reasons Americans love crossing the Atlantic for winter holidays are festive markets, unique traditions, and winter sports.
But where exactly are they heading during Christmas and New Year?
To find out, the insurance company Allianz Partners analyzed 165,000 travel booking requests for the period from November 26, 2025, to January 6, 2026.
The study shows that major European cities continue to lead, although Americans are gradually becoming bolder in their choices.
London Remains a Favorite Destination
For the second consecutive year, London remains the most popular European destination among Americans traveling across the ocean during the holiday season. The combination of winter illuminations, concerts, parties, and world-class museums in the UK capital makes it a tried-and-true favorite, especially for short trips.
Its seasonal appeal is enhanced by iconic holiday locations: from Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park to the sparkling streets of Soho. They attract those seeking a magical atmosphere without straying too far from familiar comforts.
Romantic Holidays in Paris and Rome
An obvious choice for a more romantic Christmas: Paris. Like in 2024, the French capital, with its cozy Christmas markets, iconic landmarks, and world-class galleries, ranks second.
However, following the example of the upcoming season of "Emily in Paris," many Americans are swapping the City of Love for beautiful Rome.
Strolling through 2,700 years of history in mild weather, delicious Italian cuisine recently added to UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list, and the festive atmosphere in the city's numerous squares and churches make winter travel truly magical.
Holidays Meet Tradition in Madrid and Dublin
At exactly midnight on January 1, Spain has a tradition that cannot be missed: eating 12 grapes for good luck in the new year.
And where better to do this than at the legendary Puerta del Sol in the Spanish capital? Madrid ranks fourth, attracting those who want to celebrate under confetti and with a glass of cava among thousands of revelers.
In fifth place is another party favorite: Dublin in Ireland. It can be confidently said that many Americans dream of spending the winter holidays with a pint of Guinness in a cozy (and authentic) Irish pub.
Which Other European Cities Are Americans Heading to This Winter?
Amsterdam in the Netherlands ranks sixth, kicking off the festive season with the Sinterklaas celebration, abundant in sweets, followed by a Winter Festival featuring city ice rinks, markets, and twinkling canals.
Next is Frankfurt, where visitors can sip mulled wine at Germany's oldest Christmas market and admire light installations in the Christmas Garden.
Barcelona goes further, offering Mediterranean warmth, Catalan traditions, and street parties on New Year's Eve. Then classic destinations take over again: Munich ranks ninth.
Closing the top 10 is a newer favorite among American travelers: the capital of Portugal, Lisbon, with almost spring-like winter temperatures and a relaxed holiday atmosphere.
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