A new study by Heepsy analyzed 56 cities worldwide to identify and rank the top Instagrammable holiday destinations for winter 2024.
The research focused on factors such as popularity, accommodation options, affordability, and winter-specific attractions, including snowfall and seasonal events. The final ranking prioritized Instagram hashtag counts, reflecting each destination’s visual and social media appeal, while other factors, like search volume and accommodation data, provided additional context to rank the destinations most appealing for winter holiday travelers.
| Country | City | Instagram Hashtag Count | Number of Hotel for a week stay [29.12.2024 – 05.01.2025] | Hotel Costs | Average Rating | Average Snowfall (centimetres) | Winter Festivals | Number of Christmas Markets (country) |
| Italy | Bolzano | 866M | 32 | $1,869 | 8.4 | 5 | 100 | 23 |
| Netherlands | Amsterdam | 37M | 549 | $950 | 8.2 | 1 | 300 | 1 |
| USA | New York City | 36.9M | 400 | $2,150 | 7.8 | 76 | 2,400 | 31 |
| Czech Republic | Prague | 19.2M | 1,129 | $1,345 | 8.6 | 18 | 20 | 2 |
| Italy | Venice | 17.7M | 1,195 | $5,000 | 8.7 | 5 | 100 | 23 |
| Austria | Vienna | 16.9M | 1,391 | $1,007 | 7.9 | 5 | 80 | 6 |
| Sweden | Stockholm | 15.1M | 265 | $612 | 7.9 | 7 | 6 | 2 |
| Denmark | Copenhagen | 11.3M | 284 | $970 | 8.0 | 5 | 17 | 5 |
| Hungary | Budapest | 6.6M | 1,787 | $1,050 | 8.5 | 5 | 9 | 1 |
| Spain | Granada | 7M | 672 | $606 | 8.3 | 58 | 40 | 2 |
Bolzano, Italy, leads the ranking with the highest number of Instagram hashtags at an impressive 866 million, making it the most visually appealing winter destination. With 100 winter festivals and 23 Christmas markets across Italy, it offers both the festive spirit and amazing scenery.
Amsterdam, Netherlands, ranks second with 37 million hashtags and stands out for its cultural vibrancy, hosting 300 winter festivals, the second-most among the cities. With 549 hotels available for the winter holiday week and relatively affordable accommodation at $950 per week, Amsterdam offers lively and picturesque scenes for travelers during the holiday season.
New York City, USA, takes third place with 36.9 million Instagram hashtags and leads in winter attractions with 2,400 winter festivals—by far the most among all cities. With an average snowfall of 76 centimeters, NYC offers the best winter holiday experience, being home to festive events, snowy landscapes, and Instagram-worthy sites.
Prague, Czech Republic, ranks fourth with 19.2 million Instagram hashtags. It has the highest number of hotels available (1,129) for the holiday week, making it one of the most accessible cities for travelers. Prague also offers 20 winter festivals and 2 Christmas markets, making it a top choice for a festive but affordable winter getaway.
Venice, Italy, ranks fifth with 17.7 million hashtags and is the most luxurious destination, with the highest hotel cost at $5,000 for the holiday week. It also has the best hotel rating at 8.7. With 100 winter festivals and stunning views, Venice is perfect for those seeking a high-end winter holiday.
Vienna, Austria, takes the sixth spot with 16.9 million Instagram hashtags. The city has the second-most number of hotels on the list at 1391 and a modest average hotel cost of $1,007.
Stockholm, Sweden, ranks seventh with 15.1 million hashtags and stands out for its affordability, with hotel costs at $612 per week, one of the cheapest among the cities analyzed. Though it only hosts six winter festivals, Stockholm’s cozy winter atmosphere and affordability make it a great option for travelers on budget.
Copenhagen, Denmark, ranks eighth with 11.3 million hashtags and is celebrated for its festive markets and lively holiday spirit. The city offers a perfect mix of culture and affordability, with hotel rates at $970 per week and 17 winter festivals to explore.
Budapest, Hungary, takes ninth place with 6.6 million Instagram hashtags and an impressive 1,787 hotel options, ensuring plenty of accommodations for visitors. With its rich cultural heritage, Budapest offers 9 winter festivals, providing both an affordable and traditional holiday experience.
Granada, Spain, closes the top ten with 7 million hashtags and the most affordable accommodations, averaging $606 per week. With 58 centimeters of snowfall and 40 winter festivals, Granada is full of natural beauty and a lively holiday atmosphere.
A spokesperson from Heepsy commented on the study: “When planning your winter getaway, consider balancing your budget with the kind of experience you want. For luxury seekers, destinations like Venice offer top-rated accommodations. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable yet equally festive holiday, cities like Granada and Stockholm deliver beautiful winter landscapes and vibrant holiday atmospheres without breaking the bank. Make sure to check out each destination’s winter festivals and Christmas markets to immerse yourself in the local holiday spirit fully.”