Recent research by Booking.com reveals London is the top destination searched globally by travellers this festive season, with Paris and Amsterdam following closely behind. Winter getaways are becoming increasingly popular and offer a perfect time to travel or even enjoy a Christmas break with friends and family. Travellers can explore Christmas markets whilst indulging in mulled wine, festive food and entertainment, or if you’re looking for some Christmas sun, Marrakesh could be a good bet this winter.
With 66% of Brits reporting that travelling will always be worth it, Booking.com has shared the most magical destinations that have ranked popular this year for all to experience. From London to Marrakesh, explore Booking.com’s festive stays making this the best holiday season yet.
Top searched destination globally
London, United Kingdom
Christmas in London is simply magical, with bright glittering Christmas lights and traditional markets, the capital is one of the best places to visit this season. Travellers can explore the famous Oxford Street, whilst taking in the beautiful decorative lights and basking in the best Christmas treats from an array of different stores. For those looking to participate in a fun-filled activity, London hosts ice rinks at a range of settings including Somerset House, Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland or the newly opened Battersea Power Station, which also offers a glitzy shopping centre and festive pop-up huts. Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is rated highly by many travellers featuring Christmas markets, rides, and food stalls, providing the ultimate festive experience.
Where to stay:
The Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity Covent Garden is located on the Strand in the heart of the West End theatre district, just a few minutes stroll from Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square. Wilde Aparthotels is a creatively styled hotel for those seeking to experience something a bit different. The accommodation features bespoke artwork and premium finishes and furnishings, with underground stations, theatres, and an array of top restaurants just a short walk away. Guests can jump on a train to Winter Wonderland, an annual Christmas event held at Hyde Park which has amazing Christmas markets and entertainment for friends and families to enjoy.
Top searched destinations by UK travellers
Paris, France
The city of love – Paris is a wonderful place to visit all year round, however around Christmas time it is extra special! Sparkling decorations light up the city, with a stunning scent of roasted chestnuts drifting from the Christmas markets nearby. Travellers can enjoy seasonal treats whilst leisurely strolling through the markets or attend the Christmas and New Year concerts which are held in the city’s historic churches.
Where to stay:
Hotel Eden is a flower-filled garden in the heart of Paris, a haven of tranquillity yet close to the action of the Christmas celebrations. The hotel is a stone’s throw away from the Metro, which guests can use to easily explore the whole of Paris. Hotel Eden boasts a flower-filled garden that can be enjoyed all year round, perfect after a long day of the touring city. The hotel offers great restaurants, inviting terraces and mouth-watering markets for all to experience.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a great destination to make the most of the holiday season. Leading up to Christmas, the city is a fairy-tale with glistening Christmas lights, majestic tall trees, and brightly coloured baubles. Throughout December Amsterdam’s festive spirit is high, where travellers can attend Christmas markets and find perfect gifts for friends and family. The markets showcase delicious food and trinkets, also offering glühwein and oliebollen, a type of mulled wine and Dutch doughnuts providing that festive feeling.
Where to stay:
Ruby Emma Hotel Amsterdam is located alongside the Amstel River in Amsterdam. This hotel combines luxury and sustainability in a living building shaped by nature. The property is close to all the Christmas magic, with a train station just a short walk for those looking to explore Amsterdam in its entirety. The stylish yet quirky hotel is a great place to stay for those wanting to relax and enjoy the Christmas festivities.
Marrakech, Morocco
For those that are fed up with the cold wet weather then, Marrakech is the place to be this Christmas. Travellers will be in awe of the extravagant lights displayed throughout the shopping malls, providing guests with that festive feeling. Alternatively, travellers can use this getaway to soak up the sun whilst relaxing in a festive filled hotel full of decorations, spectacular entertainment, and sensational culinary delights.
Where to stay:
Located in the heart of Medina, Riad Be Marrakech offers bright luxurious rooms for a fantastic festive break. Enjoy a banquet in the Riad, featuring delicious food in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, and choose to dine by the pool or in a Berber tent on the roof terrace. Guests can enjoy entertainment provided by the hotel or take a short stroll into town where they can be part of the Christmas magic.
