So, you’ve found yourself alone for Christmas. Maybe your friends are all coupled up, or your family is too far away, or perhaps you’re just craving a little time to yourself. Whatever the reason, instead of spending Christmas home alone like Kevin McCallister (cue the pizza and living room booby traps), why not embrace a solo Christmas holiday and opportunity for a bit of adventure? Christmas travel for singles offers an incredible way to make the most of the holidays.
The Ultimate Guide To Christmas Travel For Singles
Just like in the movie “The Holiday,” where Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet find themselves alone at Christmas and decide to swap homes for a life-changing festive season, you too could have an unforgettable solo Christmas trip. While I can’t promise you that Jude Law will come knocking at your cottage door in the middle of the night (though we can always hope!), I can assure you that solo Christmas travel will make it a season to remember.
With extra time off, holiday deals, and once-a-year experiences, there is no better time to explore a new destination on your own terms. Traveling alone at Christmas means you get to decide where to go, what to see, and how to spend every moment.
We all know the 12 days of Christmas, but let’s talk about the 12 solo trips of Christmas – because, honestly, who’s asking Santa for turtle doves anymore?
From snow-covered cities in Europe to sunny escapes in the Southern Hemisphere, these 12 destinations offer something for everyone. Every location on this list has been tried and tested by me or a fellow solo traveler, so prepare for an amazing Christmas experience!
12 Solo Trips of Christmas
- Vienna, Prague, & Budapest
- Costa Rica
- London
- Belize
- New York City
- Australia & New Zealand
- Copenhagen
- Peru
- Oslo
- Buenos Aires & Patagonia
- Edinburgh
- Tanzania
Discover The Best Of Europe’s Christmas Markets In Vienna, Prague & Budapest
Ready to take the plunge into solo Christmas travel? Start your journey with the iconic Christmas markets of Vienna, Prague, and Budapest!
The original Weihnachtsmärkte, outdoor December markets selling food, drinks, and handcrafted trinkets, come from Austria and Germany. Today, Austria still goes all out for Christmas, creating a magical experience that every traveler should see firsthand. Sip on a cup of Glühwein (spiced mulled wine) while wandering through Vienna’s bustling Christmas markets. Combine your trip to Vienna with Prague and Budapest for the complete, charming European Christmas experience.
These old cities boast stunning architecture and rich cultures. You’ll find authentic goods from small, family-run businesses for everyone on your gift list. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to experience all three destinations, U30X has the perfect trip that includes transportation and everything organized for you. See the full Prague, Vienna, and Budapest trip itinerary here!
Dive Into Adventure In Costa Rica
Swap snow for sun with a solo Christmas trip to Costa Rica, where adventure awaits! Hike through lush rainforests, zipline above the canopy, and swim under crystal-clear waterfalls. The tropical climate offers travelers the chance to encounter monkeys, sloths, exotic birds, crocodiles, and more while trekking down jungle-lined beaches. Instead of cookies and milk by the fireside, try rich Costa Rican coffee and delicious tres leches while surfing the waves in Manuel Antonio, one of the top beaches in the world. Travel with U30X for a quick 5-day escape that promises an exciting Christmas. Check out the trip to Costa Rica!
Experience The Magic Of Christmas In London
If you’re a Christmas enthusiast who starts playing holiday music as soon as you feel a chill in the air (you know who you are), London is the place for you! Since the UK doesn’t celebrate Thanksgiving, they dive straight into Christmas in early November, making it one of the best places to travel for an early Christmas. This already enchanting city becomes dazzling with lights adorning the high streets. Covent Garden, Regent Street, Oxford Street, Trafalgar Square, Carnaby Street, Leadenhall Market, and Bond Street are just a few must-see areas that come alive with Christmas magic.
I’ve made three November trips to London to experience the city’s over-the-top holiday decor. For single travelers, other must-do activities include a visit to Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland, a giant Christmas fair filled with attractions, rides, and entertainment, as well as a shopping trip to Harrods to see their unique Christmas displays. Look for deals over Thanksgiving to see London transform into a glittering winter paradise.
Relax And Unwind In Belize
For a laid-back Christmas, head to Belize, where life slows down and relaxation enters. Enjoy breathtaking sunsets, turquoise Caribbean waters, and diverse ecosystems. Home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, Belize is an amazing destination for snorkeling. Float down a river on a tubing trip to soak in the natural beauty of this country, and keep your eyes peeled for ancient Mayan ruins. Rated one of the safest destinations in Central America, Belize is an excellent option for single people to go at Christmas. Explore Belize with U30X and let your stress melt away!
Indulge In Classic Festivities In New York City
New York City is one of the best places to spend Christmas alone. You’ll never feel lonely in this bustling metropolis. With its endless activities and convenient public transportation, you can easily create a Christmas itinerary that’s uniquely yours. Avoid an international flight, and see the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas tree, ice skate at Wollman Rink in Central Park, see the Rockettes perform their Christmas Spectacular, or explore Christmas markets in Bryant Park, Union Square, and Columbus Circle. For a nostalgic treat, catch a performance of The Nutcracker at the New York City Ballet.
Bonus: If traveling to NYC feels like too much this year, but you still want to have a mini adventure that connects you with fellow travelers, check out U30X’s holiday meetups happening across the country! Come join us to share travel stories and plan future trips together.
Celebrate Christmas ‘Down Under’ In Australia & New Zealand
Tired of being cooped up indoors? Escape the winter blues by heading ‘Down Under’ for Christmas! Beloved solo travel destinations, Australia and New Zealand have friendly locals and safe environments that make it ideal for single people. Perfect for the week between Christmas and New Year's, you can spend Christmas Day at a beach barbeque before heading off on an adventure. Whether it’s hiking, kayaking, animal watching, surfing, caving, biking, or swimming, there’s an outdoor activity for everyone! For a packed 9-day trip, discover the South Island of New Zealand with U30X.
Enjoy A Cozy Christmas In Copenhagen
Cozy up this Christmas in Copenhagen, where the festive spirit is alive inside every cafe, bar, restaurant, and shop. Explore the city’s best food markets, TorvehallerneKBH, Reffen, and Broens, or head to Freetown Christiania to marvel at a quirky, creative community of local artists. For an epic night out, visit Tivoli Gardens, an amusement park decked out in Christmas cheer – it will be the highlight of your trip! Copenhagen’s Scandinavian charm makes it an excellent choice for people traveling alone at Christmas.
Bonus: Café Apropos in Copenhagen holds my personal award for the best hot chocolate in the world. If you’re in Copenhagen this winter, order one for me!
Explore Vibrant South America In Peru
Walk through the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, climb the colorful Rainbow Mountain, and learn to cook authentic Peruvian dishes this December. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes that make Peru a top choice for solo travelers. Return home with remarkable stories and a selfie with a llama to show off. U30X is leading a trip that brings you all this and more – don’t miss out on this incredible location!
Bundle Up For A Winter Wonderland In Oslo
Solo travelers come from all over to visit Norway’s snowy capital during the winter months! Witness the illusive Northern Lights, ride in a husky-pulled sled, or spend the night glamping in a glass igloo for a winter wonderland experience. Oslo and surrounding day trips offer a quintessential Christmas experience filled with good tidings. You might even get lucky and see an actual reindeer before it heads off to pull Santa’s sleigh.
Soak In Breathtaking Landscapes In Buenos Aires & Patagonia
If you don’t celebrate Christmas and are simply looking to make the most of the extra time off around the holidays, head to Buenos Aires and Patagonia. Enjoy long days of hiking through dramatic scenery, admiring granite peaks and massive glaciers. Take a tango dance class in preparation for the nightlife of Buenos Aires, and hop on a boat for a nautical view of Patagonia – this trip is action-packed! End the year with U30X at the bottom of the world!
Uncover An Enchanting Christmas In Edinburgh
Edinburgh may be smaller than London, but it’s filled with just as much festive charm. This will be my second year traveling solo for Christmas in Edinburgh. There’s something about the little Christmas markets, twinkling lights, and festive menu offerings that make Edinburgh irresistible in December. With a warm, welcoming community, it’s a great spot to spend Christmas alone. Plus, if you come this year, I’ll be there to show you around my favorite places!
Bonus: Edinburgh is a great place for a hot chocolate crawl! To get you started, try The Marshmallow Lady, Fortitude, Leo’s Beanery, Mary’s Milk Bar, and Moo Pie’s hot chocolates. You can thank me later.
Celebrate Christmas On Safari In Tanzania
Ready for a solo Christmas trip like no other? Book a flight to Tanzania! Go on a safari for a chance to spot the Big Five African mammals: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinoceros, and buffalo. Most activities will put singles together in a group, making it easy to meet new friends. For a challenging but truly extraordinary experience, book a guided climb that summits Mount Kilimanjaro on New Year's Day and watch the first sunrise of the year from the ‘Roof of Africa.’
Why Are These The Top Destinations For Solo Travel During Christmas?
Each of these destinations makes my list of top locations for Christmas travel for singles because they’re safe for solo travelers, offer plenty of activities, and have friendly locals ready to welcome you with open arms. Whether you want to wander around snowy town centers, unwind on a tropical beach, or dive into the wild, these locations will never leave you bored or waiting around. Plus, with so many group activities to join, you’re bound to meet other like-minded travelers along the way!
Make This Christmas One To Celebrate!
Don’t let the holiday season pass you by without a memorable solo trip! It’s not too late to book your solo getaway – check out U30X’s trips on sale for some amazing last-minute deals on December travel.
