As Christmas approaches, Americans are locking in holiday trips in all directions, from neon lit desert escapes to snowy city breaks and beachy international getaways. New data from Priceline, based on millions of searches for travel between December 19 and 28, offers a clear look at where travelers are going, where they are finding the best deals, and which destinations are seeing the biggest interest this holiday season.
The results show a mix of classic crowd favorites and value driven picks, proving that travelers are balancing festive experiences with budget-friendly planning.
The most popular and affordable places to travel this Christmas
When it comes to domestic trips, familiar favorites are once again topping the charts. Las Vegas leads the way, thanks to holiday themed shows, dazzling Strip decorations, and endless dining options. New York follows close behind, with travelers drawn to ice skating at Rockefeller Center, Broadway shows, and iconic window displays. Orlando and Anaheim also rank high as families flock to theme parks decked out in full holiday mode, while San Diego rounds out the list with mild weather and coastal charm.
Travelers looking to stretch their holiday budget are finding value in cities like Atlanta and Denver, where airfare prices remain relatively low. San Diego appears again, pulling double duty as both popular and affordable, while Tampa and Dallas offer warm weather and festive events without peak prices.
Internationally, big cities and beach escapes dominate. Tokyo and Osaka stand out for travelers chasing winter illuminations, seasonal food, and big city energy. Cancun and Punta Cana remain reliable for sun seekers, while Paris continues to draw Christmas market lovers.
As for the most affordable international destinations, the standouts are: Montego Bay, Jamaica; Seoul, South Korea; Cancun, Mexico; San Jose, Costa Rica; and Kingston, Jamaica.
