While the cold season is slowly approaching in Central Europe, demand for winter travel has long been booming at TUI. 
Whether it's soaking up the sun, winter adventures, family short trips or long-distance trips – holiday habits have changed a lot in recent years.

Presenter Tom Weyermann spoke to Stephan Gernot, one of TUI's most experienced travel experts, for MFRadio.de.

Tom:
"Stephan, how has travel behaviour changed in the winter business?"

Stephan Gernot:
"The biggest difference to the past is the desire for predictability and security. After the turbulent years, people are once again looking for trips that work reliably – at the same time they want experiences, nature, quality and very personal moments. Winter has become the most important travel period for many."

According to TUI, demand for winter travel in 2025/2026 is higher than it has been in ten years. Particularly sought-after:

TUI sees another record year:

Stephan explains:
"Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria are at the forefront. Above all, the new adults-only resorts and sustainable hotel concepts are being booked very strongly."

Hurghada and Marsa Alam are making a real comeback.
Particularly in demand: all-inclusive resorts with large facilities and direct house reefs.

According to TUI, the island of Sal will be one of the top destinations of winter, especially for couples and adventure travelers.

Perfect for:

"We are seeing a strong demand for short trips of 4-6 days – a trend that has taken hold," says Stephan.

Many travellers are looking for exactly the opposite: snow, northern lights, adventure.

Scandinavia boom 2025/2026

According to TUI, the "Nordic winter" is exceptionally strong:

Stephan says:
"Lapland is almost fully booked in many weeks – if you want to see the Northern Lights, you should be early."

Austria, Switzerland, Italy – booking figures are rising again everywhere.
 Trend: Sustainable, car-free ski resorts and luxury wellness hotels.

Tom:
"Stephan, many are wondering: Book early or last minute?"

Stephan Gernot:
"In winter, it's clear: book early. The last-minute wave of the past is almost non-existent in the winter business. Popular destinations are in short supply by November at the latest. Especially family rooms or high-end resorts."

Travellers are paying more and more attention to:

Stephan:
"Many new TUI hotel concepts rely on local products, renewable energy and plastic-free facilities. The topic has finally arrived in the mainstream."

Not only attractive in summer – ideal for hiking in winter, mild, green and quiet.

Very popular with experienced travelers:

20 degrees in December, no crowded places, good food, nature, culture."
Many completely underestimate Cyprus as a winter destination – completely wrongly," says Stephan.

Perfect for culture and sun, with a pleasant 17-22 degrees.

Away from the big tourist centres – ideal for slowing down.

6. Kostarika
A paradise for adventurers and nature lovers, rafting and outdoor activities

7. Oman
A great alternative to Dubai, very nice people with a lot of warmth 

Stephan summarizes in an interview:

His advice to all listeners:
"If you want to travel in winter, you should decide early and use real advice. The offers are diverse - but good places are rare."

sun, snow or culture - winter 2025/2026 brings an unprecedented mix of new destinations, luxurious resorts, sustainable concepts and adventure experiences.

The conversation with Stephan Gernot shows:
If you plan now, you can choose from one of the most exciting winter travel years ever.




Listen to the article in our audio library here!






Author: Tom Weyermann
Sources: TUI Reisen - Stephan Gernot