Can’t stand the idea of another Christmas at home? Dust off that suitcase and dig out that passport for a trip to one of 2024’s most searched Christmas holiday destinations on KAYAK.
Whether you’re craving some much-needed winter sunshine or simply want a change of scene from a UK festive break, December is a fantastic time for a holiday. Below, I share my top 10 Christmas holiday destinations for 2024 based on personal suggestions and KAYAK data on the most searched cities.
Ready to dive into some alternative settings for this year’s festive season?
Top 10 Christmas holiday destinations based on flight searches
From far-flung locales where you can indulge in festive toasts under palm trees to vibrant cities bursting with unique cultural experiences, here’s where to go for a more unconventional Christmas in 2024:
1. Bangkok, Thailand
If a cold, drizzly Christmas is not on your gift list, Bangkok should be. Thailand’s capital never fails to impress — and not just for its wonderfully warm climate.
No matter what time of year you visit, Bangkok is buzzing with things to see, do and taste (the street food is arguably the best in Asia). The city makes an extra special effort during the festive period, with light displays, vibrant decorations and great shopping deals. You’ll usually find an ice rink at Central World shopping centre, plus a whimsical Christmas village at Dream World theme park — perfect if you’re visiting with kids.
Another major draw of a Bangkok escape in December is the price. It’s incredibly affordable if you’re searching for budget-friendly Christmas holiday destinations. You can grab a delicious meal in a local restaurant or market for just a few pounds. What’s more, according to KAYAK data, flight prices are down 4% compared to last year. Meaning? You’ll have more money to spend on amazing activities and upgrading your hotel.
2. Manila, the Philippines
If you want to ring in 2025 in the tropics, consider Manila for your Christmas getaway. It’s one of the most searched destinations for December according to KAYAK data — and for good reason.
As well as being a jumping-off point for numerous idyllic islands (how does New Year’s Eve in paradisical Palawan sound?), the sprawling metropolis has plenty of allures in its own right. The Philippines is predominantly Catholic, so you can expect plenty of festive cheer in Manila during the holiday season. This includes the Grand Marian Procession parade in early December and simbang gabi (a series of nine masses held each day in the lead up to Christmas Eve).
Keep your eyes peeled for Christmas traditions with a Filipino twist, too. This includes streets illuminated with parols (star-shaped lanterns) and seasonal treats like lechon (whole-roasted pig), polvoron (crumbly shortbread biscuits) and warming spiced wine.
3. Dubai, UAE
For the ultimate shopping getaway this December, consider Dubai. This city in the desert is a popular Christmas holiday destination for those seeking a little warmth. Not only is it quicker to get to than many other hot weather locales (just seven hours from London), flights also come in at around £700 return in economy.
One major benefit of visiting Dubai in December is the weather. You can expect temperatures in the low to mid-20s — ideal for outdoor activities like desert safaris and dune bashing. Because of the more manageable climate, it’s a popular time to visit, so you’ll want to book as soon as possible to get the best deal.
If festive spectacles are what you’re craving, put the Dubai Shopping Festival on your agenda or visit a traditional souk to pick up some lovely local gifts. You’ll also find a special Winter District at the Jumeirah Emirates Tower (there’s even fake snow for snowball fights!). Foodies will have no shortage of places to dine, from multi-course Christmas Day brunches to festive-themed dinner and movie nights.
4. Mumbai, India
Balmy weather, budget-friendly accommodation and a great mix of attractions make Mumbai an excellent option for an end-of-year break.
While it might not seem the most traditional of Christmas holiday destinations, KAYAK data shows it’s among the most searched for December. So, if you’re after something out of the ordinary (with plenty of culture to boot), put it on your radar.
The UK winter is the best time to visit India — and Mumbai is no exception. The city sits on the country’s west coast and hosts some truly iconic sites, including the Gate of India and the golden-hued Vipassana Pagoda. The weather in December is warm and dry; ideal conditions for exploring sacred Elephanta Island or for sunset cruises on the shimmering Arabian Sea.
5. Sydney, Australia
A mix of sunny weather and enthusiastic festive cheer makes Sydney a sublime pick for a Christmas getaway. Australia’s best-known city is awash with awesome attractions — from iconic landmarks like Sydney Harbour Bridge and gorgeous green spaces like Sydney Botanic Gardens to fantastic foodie hubs like Haymarket and Chippendale.
December sits right in the middle of Sydney’s summer season, meaning alfresco dining and days spent lounging on golden beaches (Bronte Beach is one of my favourites) will be on the cards.
If you’re craving some Christmassy activities, don’t worry. Sydney’s festive calendar is as varied as London’s. Shop for local artisan gifts at The Rocks’ enchanting festive market, check out the shimmering window displays at the David Jones department store or venture to Market Place to view the city’s giant Christmas Tree.
Top tip: it’s well worth sticking around the city until New Year’s Eve. The fireworks display in the harbour is still one of the best I’ve ever seen.
6. New York, USA
New York City is hands-down one of the best places to go at Christmas for extreme festive vibes. And with this year’s average December flight prices hovering at around £550 return (3% lower than last year), you’ll be able to visit this urban jungle without breaking the bank.
I’ve been in NYC at Christmas time and it’s just as magical as you’d expect. From crisp sunny days watching the ice skaters in Central Park to evenings spent marvelling at all the festive window displays along Fifth Avenue, there’s no shortage of things to do to get you in the mood for Christmas. You’ll even find a few German-style festive markets, including a cosy option (complete with a free ice rink) in Bryant Park.
If you’re keen to snap that iconic skyline shot of the city, I’d recommend booking a visit to the One World Observatory. Not only is it the tallest observation deck in NYC, but you’ll also get amazing views of the Empire State, the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty.
7. New Delhi, India
According to KAYAK data, flight prices to New Delhi from the UK this December are down a whopping 14% compared to last year. Meaning? If you’ve always wanted to visit India (or you’ve got family there), a trip this Christmas is a great shout.
Price aside, the Indian capital is a gem of a city for culture seekers. As well as ancient fortresses like the Red Fort and UNESCO-listed tombs in Old Delhi, you can gaze up at soaring skyscrapers and expand your knowledge of India (and the world) at countless incredible museums.
December marks the start of New Delhi’s peak season, but you should be fine if you plan in advance. It’s a great place to visit for an alternative Christmas getaway filled with vibrant local culture, fantastic (and cheap) food and centuries of intriguing history.
8. Johannesburg, South Africa
South Africa is another country where December marks the middle of the summer season. Coastal Cape Town is a popular pick for a festive season getaway. However, looking at KAYAK data, Johannssberg in the heart of the country cinches it as one of the top 10 Christmas holiday destinations for 2024.
As well as flight prices being a fraction cheaper than in December 2023, this bustling city is also an excellent jumping-off point for Kruger National Park. Going on safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — and there are few better places to enjoy it than South Africa. December is particularly attractive for a safari escape as you’re more likely to spot young wildlife, including baby elephants and lion cubs.
Top tip: spend a few days in Joburg on either side of your animal adventure for a dose of cosmopolitan culture. The city has heaps of shopping and dining venues, plus there’s a handful of festive markets and organised New Year’s parties to choose between.
9. Goa, India
Another Indian destination — and this time I’m taking you to the blissful region of Goa. It’s one of the best places to go at Christmas if you’re seeking sunshine, sand and a seriously eclectic mix of history.
The latter is down to the fact the entire region was a Portuguese colony for over 400 years. In fact, the pretty port city of Vasca de Gama is named after a Portuguese explorer who was the first European to sail to India. Fly into the city’s international airport (the region’s main transport hub) and spend a few days exploring its historic waterfront and serene Japanese Gardens before hitting the beach.
Goa has over 100 kilometres of coastline and is famed for its golden crescent-shaped coves. Just south of Vasca da Gama is a huge sandy stretch comprising several relaxing beaches, including Majorda, Benaulim and Varca. Each one is dotted with luxurious resorts to suit every budget, plus foodies will love grabbing lunch at local food stalls along the shoreline.
10. Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Jeddah is number 10 on KAYAK’s most searched Christmas holiday destinations for 2024. The city on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast offers so much for visitors to see and do, from a UNESCO World Heritage Old Town to coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Decembers in Jeddah are hot, with some days reaching upwards of 30°C. You’ll be able to cool down with refreshing dips in the ocean and visits to air-conditioned venues like The Village Mall or the treasure-filled Museum of Home Art. There are also a few seasonal events that typically take place during this month.
Cinephiles should check out the screenings at the Red Sea Film Festival from the 5th to the 14th of December, while book lovers can attend talks or simply browse the stalls at the Jeddah International Book Fair from the 12th to the 21st.
While you won’t find festive markets selling gluhwein or ice rinks in Jeddah, you will find a rich heritage, centuries of ancient history and a diverse food scene that spans local fare to Asian delights.
More Christmas holiday destinations
Rather stay a little closer to home this festive season? Discover the UK’s best Christmas city breaks. Or kick off 2025 the right way with a cheap New Year’s Eve break. And for those seeking scorching temperatures and a chance to tan? Check out where’s hot in December for a winter sun escape.
Destination lists are based on an analysis of the destinations with the most roundtrip economy flight searches on KAYAK.co.uk and associated brands. Average return economy flight prices, year-over-year percentage comparisons over search volume and prices are calculated for the destinations.
‘Most-searched destinations’ are defined as destinations with the highest flight search volume, while the ‘Trending destinations’ is based on the destinations with the biggest year-over-year increase in search volume for return economy flights.
Destination exclusions may have been applied in cases of insufficient data or according to the official travel advisory at the time when the data analysis was conducted.
A note from our legal team
The Travel Check-In: Christmas and New Year 2024 report data mentioned in this article is based on an analysis of return economy flight searches made on KAYAK.co.uk and associated brands between 14-06-2024 and 14-09-2024 for travel dates between 14-12-2024 and 06-01-2025, defined as the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Year-over-year data is based on the comparison to the same search and travel periods in the previous years.
All flight prices mentioned are weighted average prices for return flights in economy class, and departing from anywhere in the UK. ‘Domestic’ trips are defined as trips to destinations within the UK, ‘Europe’ as trips outside the UK but within Europe, and ‘Outside Europe’ as trips outside Europe, departing from the UK
Business class data is based on an analysis of return business class flight searches made on KAYAK.co.uk and associated brands between 14-06-2024 and 14-09-2024 for travel dates between 14-12-2024 and 06-01-2025, defined as the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Year-over-year data is based on the comparison to the same search and travel periods in the previous years.
