Young woman tourist traveling by a Tuk Tuk vehicle on the street at Bangkok, Thailand.
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The younger generation is more budget-conscious and tech-savvy than any generation to come before them—and according to new research from Airbnb, that has impacted the way Gen-Z plans and books travel. Gen-Z travelers look for a desire to discover lesser-known destinations and opt to prioritize baking wellness experiences into their itinerary.
The study found that Gen-Z travelers aim to travel to more nature-focused areas around the world, where they can disconnect from technology and enjoy more laid-back experiences like hiking and horseback riding, but where they can also connect with local culture more easily than your typical tourist hot spot.
Here are the most popular Gen-Z travel destinations this winter:
Porto Seguro, Brazil
Trancoso is a district of the Brazilian municipality of Porto Seguro, on the coast of the state of Bahia.
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Porto Seguro is one of two Brazilian cities on the list. The coastal town boasts an incredible 90 kilometers of beaches and is also home to a colorful nightlife scene, making it easy to both relax and mingle with locals.
Praia Grande, Brazil
Praia Grande, Vila Tupi Neighborhood – State of São Paulo, Brazil.
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The second Brazilian destination on the list, Praia Grande is known for its bathing resorts and beautiful beaches with waves ripe for surf.
Sydney, Australia
Bondi beach, Sydney, NSW, Australia: People swimming in the fresh water swimming pools built in to the sea with waves rolling in to Bondi and breaking against the edge of the pool
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The cultural capital of Australia has also earned a top spot on the bucket list of Gen-Z travelers. Younger travelers flock to Sydney for the laid-back pace of life, beautiful beaches, and excellent party scene.
Greater Orlando, Florida, United States
Orlando, Florida, USA Downtown Drone Skyline Aerial.
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Gen-Z travelers who don’t want to go too far are heading to Orlando, Florida. From attractions like the Walt Disney World Resort to the chronically good weather, Orlando proves you don’t have to go international to enjoy a relaxing holiday in the sun.
Alicante, Spain
View from Santa Barbara castle to marine Alicante, provence Valencia, Spain
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Tucked into Costa Blanca, the port city of Alicante has become a popular spot for Gen-Z travelers for its classic cobblestoned streets, colorful buildings, and even more colorful nightlife. It’s much more relaxed than bigger cities in Spain and affords a slower pace of life.
Munich, Germany
Aerial view of Munich – Marienplatz, Neues Rathaus and Frauenkirche from St. Peter’s church on sunset. Munich, Germany
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History-hungry Gen-Z travelers are adding Munich to their bucket list. The German city boasts beautiful centuries-old buildings, dozens of museums, and the very healthy nightlife doesn’t hurt either.
Osaka, Japan
Tsutenkaku tower in Osaka’s Shinsekai entertainment district on a sunny day. Osaka, Japan.
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Gen-Z travelers are skipping Tokyo and heading straight to Osaka for a more laid-back Japanese experience. The city is still home to nearly three million people but it has more breathing room than Tokyo. It’s also famous for its delicious street food (try the takoyaki!).
Punta del Este, Uruguay
View of Mansa beach in Punta del Este city, Uruguay. Image taken outdoors, daylight, in summer.
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Punta del Este is arguably one of the more fancy-leaning cities in Uruguay. It still offers the beautiful public beaches, friendly locals, and great food, but you’ll also find a more upscale nightlife than you would in neighboring Montevideo.
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Beach at Caribbean sea in Playa del Carmen, Mexico
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Playa del Carmen is the only Mexican city to make the list. A short flight from the US, this resort city is famous for its beachfront and nightlife. It’s also quite popular for watersports like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok’s Chinatown is one of most vibrant neighborhoods in this Southeast Asian city. This neighborhood is packed with market stalls, gold shops, and restaurants. Bangkok’s Chinatown is located along Yaowarat Road in the Samphanthawong district of Bangkok Province, Thailand, Asia
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Thailand has become a very popular tourist destination over the past few years with Bangkok leading the way. The bustling city is well-loved by young travelers for its affordable and delicious food, active nightlife, and stunning landmarks.
