US, Chile, Australia, Costa Rica, Brazil, Colombia, Italy, Germany, Thailand, Austria and Switzerland report strong growth in winter travel with demand rising in rural and natural areas

Posted on October 30, 2025

The United States, Chile, Australia, Costa Rica, Brazil, Colombia, Italy, Germany, Thailand, Austria and Switzerland are recording strong winter travel momentum this season as global tourism demand shifts towards nature, open spaces and authentic local experiences. Growing interest in rural retreats, mountain towns, lakeside retreats and rural areas is reshaping traditional travel behaviour, as more travelers reject crowded urban centers in favor of quieter, scenic destinations that offer wellness, sustainability and outdoor adventure. Supported by a strong recovery in international mobility, flexible business travel, and a growing preference for longer stays, rural and nature tourism now drives a significant share of global bookings. This upward trend reflects a broader lifestyle shift, as travelers increasingly prioritize freedom, seasonal adventure, and meaningful environmental connection over traditional city tourism.

Winter travel is entering a strong new era with global demand surging ahead of major international events, with Italy at the heart of this seasonal momentum. Mounting excitement around the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games has sparked an early wave of travel interest that is reshaping tourism patterns across continents. From alpine retreats to tropical retreats, travelers are planning bigger trips, staying longer, and seeking experiences that go beyond traditional vacation trends.

Olympic anticipation turns Italy into a winter travel leader

Italy has emerged as the most popular winter destination of the year, largely due to preparations for the Winter Games scheduled to begin on February 6, 2026. Interest is sharply focused in the northern regions where sporting events will be held. Destinations like Milan, Trentino – South Tyrol, Lombardy and Veneto It is seeing record demand. Reports from major travel platforms confirm this Research interest in Lombardy has increased by triple digits compared to last yearThis is a clear indication that travelers are booking early to secure accommodation close to the competition.

What makes this trend even more evident is its wide international reach. Travelers from Europe, North America and Asia are contributing to this increase, with bookings for long-haul flights rising steadily. Italy’s unique combination of winter sports facilities, scenic Dolomites, cultural heritage cities and well-connected transport hubs make it an irresistible choice for both sports enthusiasts and leisure explorers.

The Olympic ripple effect enhances neighboring areas

The travel momentum is spreading beyond the official Winter Games areas. The surrounding mountain towns in northern Italy and across the borders of Austria and Switzerland are now promoting themselves as… Alternative winter rules For event visitors. These areas offer convenient proximity to the Olympic venues while offering a quiet atmosphere and lower accommodation costs. As a result, more travelers are combining Olympic Games attendance with winter road trips, stays in mountain villages and regional sightseeing.

This emerging travel behavior reflects a broader global trend: trips are no longer limited to a single destination or purpose. Instead, travelers design Multiple paths of experienceAdventure, culture and nature are often combined into one trip. The Winter Games have simply accelerated this shift by inspiring longer, more immersive travel plans.

The travel portal redefines seasonal exploration

Another big shift affecting winter tourism is the emergence of… Travel portal. This trend favors regional centers that provide access to nature, local culture and quieter surroundings without sacrificing comfort. These destinations serve as entry points to national parks, mountainous regions or coastal routes, giving travelers instant freedom to explore.

A prime example of this is Australian Capital Territory. Although known for its administrative importance, it has quietly developed into a nature-rich haven. Surrounded by national reserves, rivers and mountain valleys, it attracts travelers seeking outdoor energy combined with modern conveniences. This balance between accessibility and wilderness makes gateway destinations increasingly popular among winter travelers around the world.

South America is also gaining momentum in this category in particular Santiago in Chile. Backed by the Andes and surrounded by scenic wine regions, Santiago links city life with snow-capped mountain adventures. Travelers can spend mornings on the ski slopes and evenings exploring the local cuisine and arts districts.

Warm weather alternatives to winter are gaining traction

While winter sports destinations remain in high demand, a significant portion of travelers continue to do so Escape from cold climates By heading to the tropics. Thailand It has emerged as one of the most preferred destinations for warm weather in winter. particularly, Prachuap Khiri Khan It is increasingly popular thanks to its quiet beaches, vibrant fishing communities, and coral-filled waters. The area offers an authentic coastal experience away from the crowded tourist areas of southern Thailand.

Many other destinations around the world are gaining recognition for their unique appeal:

• Goslar, Germany – A beautifully preserved city surrounded by snowy mountains
• San Jose, Costa Rica – A travel center surrounded by volcanoes and rainforests
• Goiás, Brazil – It is famous for its charming historical cities and natural hot water springs
• Cordoba, Colombia – A rural retreat filled with rivers and cultural rhythms

Small cities drive travel growth in the United States

In the United States, travel trends show a move toward rural and small-town experiences. Champion in Pennsylvania It currently ranks among the most popular winter destinations. With its snow-covered landscape, skiing opportunities and rustic accommodations, it embodies the atmosphere of a classic winter getaway. Other popular sites include St. Tammany Parish in Louisiana, (Bay St. Louis, Mississippi)., Hermosa Beach, California and (Dover, Vermont)..

Families in particular are driving this transformation. Rural and suburban destinations now attract the majority of family winter bookingsas travelers show an increasing preference for privacy, nature and open space. Longer holidays are also becoming more popular, with one in three family groups planning to stay for a week or longer.

The United States, Chile, Australia, Costa Rica, Brazil, Colombia, Italy, Germany, Thailand, Austria and Switzerland are seeing strong growth in winter travel as global tourists shift away from crowded cities towards rural escapes, nature destinations and longer sustainable stays. This trend is fueled by the demand for outdoor experiences, wellness travel and authentic cultural immersion in quieter, scenic areas.

Winter travel has entered a new phase – one powered by purposeful exploration, seasonal diversity and world-record mobility. Whether they’re chasing snow in the Italian Alps or sunshine in Southeast Asia, this winter travelers are embracing freedom, discovery, and purpose like never before.