2025 spring travel trends revealed

By Airbnb · February 26, 2025

Key Takeaways

Solo travel continues to trend as adventurers embark on extended journeys for self-reflection.
Families are looking to spend quality time together this spring break, including their beloved pets.
Trending destinations this spring include vibrant cultural hubs and picturesque coastal towns, from Ubatuba, Brazil to Basel, Switzerland.

Key Takeaways

Solo travel continues to trend as adventurers embark on extended journeys for self-reflection.
Families are looking to spend quality time together this spring break, including their beloved pets.
Trending destinations this spring include vibrant cultural hubs and picturesque coastal towns, from Ubatuba, Brazil to Basel, Switzerland.

Around the world, travelers are proving that spring break isn’t just for students. Fueled by the desire to prioritize self-reflection, immerse in cultural events and spend quality time with family, travelers are exploring destinations all around the world this spring, from breathtaking beaches in Ubatuba, Brazil, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic to charming European cities Basel, Switzerland and Cologne, Germany¹.

90%

growth in solo searches for spring travel

17

nights is the average trip length for spring solo travelers

40%

increase in searches for trips with pets this spring by solo travelers

Solo wanderlust and the comfort of soft travel

Spring break is evolving beyond group travel, with two key trends emerging this season. First, solo travel is on the rise, with individuals specifically focused on soft travel–or slower paced trips that prioritize leisure and wellbeing. These solo adventurers are embracing more relaxed and meaningful travel experiences, opting for longer trips averaging 17 nights, as compared to 9 nights for duo travelers and 8 nights for families².

The second trend we’re seeing is travelers taking the literal approach to soft travel by bringing their furry friends along for the adventure³. These trends highlight a shift towards personalized vacation experiences that cater to the different group sizes.

Solo travel continues to surge beyond Valentine’s Day weekend and into spring, with a 90% growth in solo searches for spring travel dates compared to last year⁴.
Compared to last spring, searches for trips with pets have risen by 30%⁵, with solo travelers experiencing the most significant increase of over 40%⁶.
Interest in countryside escapes has risen this spring compared to last⁷.
With school breaks in the spring, destinations that offer family-friendly events and activities, including parades during Cologne Carnival to educational exploration at the Ubatuba Aquarium in Brazil, are trending⁸.

Trending destinations this spring

Here are some of the top trending destinations this spring based on a growth in searches since spring 2024:

Spacious and modern loft-style living area featuring a cozy sectional sofa with orange and blue accent pillows, a circular black coffee table, and a textured area rug. In the background, a stylish dining area with a contemporary chandelier and a well-equipped kitchen is visible. A hanging wicker chair adds a touch of relaxation, while a staircase leads to a lofted sleeping area, creating an inviting and artistic atmosphere with wooden beams and vibrant wall art.

Basel, Switzerland

Basel is set to be a bustling destination this spring as it gears up to host the iconic international song competition in early May. In addition to this event, music lovers from around the globe can experience the city’s rich cultural heritage through its renowned museums, architecture, and lively culinary scene.

A bright and airy dining area in a beachfront apartment in Brazil, featuring a round wooden table set for four with elegant dishware, a stylish woven pendant light overhead, and large glass doors leading to a balcony with ocean views.

Ubatuba, Brazil

Ubatuba is the ideal coastal getaway for travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of São Paulo during the national long weekend, May 1-4. Known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes and vibrant local culture, Ubatuba offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With over 70 pristine beaches to choose from, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, surfing, and exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

A cozy living room featuring a gray sofa adorned with decorative pillows, a small round coffee table, and a television mounted on the wall. Large glass doors lead to a balcony with a view of the beach and turquoise chairs. The room is bright and airy with light-colored walls and wooden flooring, creating a welcoming seaside ambiance.

Gulf Shores, AL, United States

The coastal city of Gulf Shores offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages. From exhilarating water sports and fishing, to exploring local beaches, parks, and nature trails, there’s something for everyone. Gulf Shores also boasts delicious seafood dining options, which can be enjoyed with the luxury of a private chef, making it an ideal spring break getaway for foodies and families alike.

A cozy bedroom featuring two beds with white linens and blue runners. The room has traditional Japanese decor with wooden beams, tatami mat flooring, and a decorative painting on the wall. A small table with chairs is situated in the center, alongside a blue sofa. Natural light floods through the window, enhancing the warm ambiance of the space.

Taito City, Japan

Taito City is home to iconic attractions such as the historic Asakusa district and the towering Tokyo Skytree. In Asakusa, visitors can immerse themselves in Japan’s rich heritage, exploring ancient temples and bustling markets while experiencing traditional customs like the Japanese tea ceremony. Meanwhile, the Tokyo Skytree offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation decks, making Taito City a perfect blend of tradition and modernity.

A spacious rooftop terrace in Germany featuring a wooden deck surrounded by potted plants and a small table with chairs. A large umbrella provides shade over the table, and the view includes neighboring rooftops under a clear blue sky.

Cologne, Germany

Steeped in history and architectural wonders like the iconic Cologne Cathedral, this city along the Rhine River is renowned for its lively atmosphere, particularly during the Cologne Carnival. This March celebration transforms the streets into a week-long festival filled with music and dancing, as well as revelry in the pubs and bars surrounding Alter Markt and Heumarkt squares. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Cologne joie de vivre, or “joyful spirit,” by enjoying the cozy ambiance of rustic pubs and breweries that serve kölsch, the city’s signature beer, or exploring the city’s street art.

A stylish loft featuring a cozy elevated bed with white linens, surrounded by an extensive bookshelf filled with books. A sleek reading lamp is positioned next to the bed, and a white chair is placed nearby. The wooden wardrobe adds a touch of warmth to the modern decor. The space is well-lit with soft lighting, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Milan, Italy

Milan is a vibrant city celebrated for its fashion, culture, and design. In April, it buzzes with energy during Milan Design Week, a week-long event that highlights innovative artists, captivating installations, and the latest trends, attracting creatives from around the world. For travelers seeking a creative outlet, Milan offers a wealth of experiences, including a Mosaic course in Atelier Milan.

A cozy dining room featuring a wooden table surrounded by six upholstered chairs. The room has rustic wooden beams on the ceiling and a large colorful artwork on the wall. There are large glass doors leading to a deck, allowing natural light to fill the space. The floor is made of light-colored wood, complementing the warm tones of the room.

Stillwater, OK, United States

Stillwater is a charming college town with a strong community spirit, especially during Spring Family Weekend in March. This event invites families to enjoy fun and festivities on campus and throughout the city including local attractions, live music, and delicious cuisines. With its welcoming atmosphere and engaging activities, Stillwater is an ideal destination for families looking to create lasting memories this spring break.

A cozy patio with a view of the beach. The patio is adorned with tropical plants and a hammock, while a Greek flag flutters in the breeze. Beach loungers are set up on the sandy shore, and the deep blue sea is visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky. On the table, there are two glasses of drinks and a plate of food, inviting relaxation and enjoyment in a picturesque setting.

Corfu, Greece

Corfu, an island off Greece’s northwest coast, is an ideal spring destination for travelers seeking mountainous coastal landscapes and adventure. This spring, vacationers can attend the Corfu Garden Festival, featuring stunning floral displays and gardening workshops, the Corfu International Music Festival, which celebrates classical and contemporary music, and the Corfu International Film Festival which showcases local and international films. For a unique experience, travelers can participate in an apiary seminar in Corfu, for the chance to be a beekeeper for a day.

A terrace featuring a comfortable grey sofa adorned with a colorful tropical pillow and a round wooden coffee table. Two stylish woven chairs with green cushions surround the table. The terrace overlooks a serene body of water with palm trees and residential buildings in the background, framed by a bright blue sky.

Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Located on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic, this island paradise is home to beautiful beaches that stretch along the Caribbean and Atlantic coastlines. With its pristine turquoise waters, it is an ideal destination for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. Additionally, visitors can explore a variety of ecotourism adventures in Punta Cana’s national parks, mountain ranges, and rivers, making it a perfect playground for nature lovers and families seeking adventure.

A serene bedroom with herringbone floors, an upholstered beige bed and neutral patterned wallpaper. There are three large windows with turquoise shutters and a table for two in the corner prefect for morning coffee.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The bustling city of Amsterdam is renowned for its scenic canals and rich cultural heritage. On April 27, the city comes alive with King’s Day, a festive celebration featuring street parties, music, and an energetic carnival atmosphere. Beyond the festival, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by participating in various activities, such as hand-making jewelry with skilled local artisans.