Destination guides

Are you looking for a unique way to celebrate the festive period? Why not do something different and make Christmas a holiday to remember? Whether you want to immerse yourself in all of the festive fun, or simply get away from it all for a bit, there are a number of great festive destinations that can make for a brilliant experience for solo travellers.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Christmas break in the UK, or want to join a sociable river cruise or a relaxing ocean cruise, there are so many options out there. Here are just a few of our favourites.

1. UK breaks

Starting closer to home, there are some brilliant festive destinations for holidays in the UK, perfect for the solo traveller who wants to get away from their day to day routine, but doesn’t want to stray too far afield. We have a number of fantastic UK Christmas breaks, such as this option, exclusively for solo travellers, where you can celebrate Christmas at a beautiful 19th century hotel in Sheffield. Or you can enjoy a festive break in the stunning regency spa town of Cheltenham. Our UK festive breaks come complete with all the trimmings, from exciting excursions to delicious food and drink, and offer great value for money.

2. European Christmas Markets

For a slightly more traditional festive option, there are so many trips available to some of the best Christmas Markets in Europe. Head to the markets in Germany, The Netherlands or Belgium to experience the festive magic and some good old-fashioned Yuletide cheer. With all the gluhwein and bratwurst you could want, and row upon row of stalls selling yummy treats and amazing Christmas gifts, there is plenty to keep you busy! A perfect destination for a solo traveller.

3. The Canaries

If you fancy a bit of sun during the festive period, then the Canary Islands could be a great destination for you. With endless stretches of beaches to explore, you could spend your Christmas day sunbathing - with temperatures hitting the mid twenties even in December. If you’re travelling solo and looking for the ultimate relaxing trip where you can fully embrace that quality ‘me time’, then this is the destination for you.

4. South Africa

For something a bit more adventurous, why not spend Christmas in the Southern Hemisphere? This South African bucket-list trip is perfect for the outdoorsy type, with visits to animal sanctuaries, game reserves and a thrilling four-wheel drive safari across the desert. These excursions also make great talking points, making it a great option for a sociable solo traveller who wants to get fully stuck into all that cruising has to offer. You still get time to relax, though, exploring fascinating historical port towns and spending time on beautiful golden beaches in your down time. What an incredible way to ring in the New Year!

5. The Mediterranean 

Celebrate the festive period in style on a cruise around the Med! Spend Christmas day in Portugal and ring in the New Year in Barcelona, where you can experience the city’s party atmosphere. However, you won’t miss out on all of the festivities and home comforts, with a delicious Christmas dinner and New Year buffet available on the ship, as well as festive entertainment in the form of a pantomime and a Christmas carol singalong!

Hopefully that’s given you some inspiration on some of the really exciting places you could be spending Christmas.