Best Vacations for the Holidays

Sabine Lubenow/Getty Images

As the holidays get closer, finding the perfect present for everyone on your list can seem like a daunting task.

Sure, there are items everyone wants this year, and stuffing stockings with the greatest travel products or best beauty buys are sure to delight, but the holidays are about much more than tangible items under the tree.

Enjoying time with friends and family is what this festive time of year is all about—not to mention spending money on experiences over products actually makes you a better person. So, wrap up a little rest and relaxation this season and give your loved ones the best gift possible: a vacation.

Not sure where to go? From walking on glaciers in Iceland to sipping wine in Sonoma, we’ve pulled together some of the best options from around the world to give you and your family the experience of a lifetime.

Start Slideshow

1 of 25

Morocco

Courtesy of AdventureLink

With endless exotic beauty and natural wonders, Morocco makes for an unforgettable journey. View UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Volubilis, Fes, Ouarzazate & Marrakech, travel into the High Atlas Mountains to stay at Sir Richard Branson's luxurious Kasbah Tamadot, or wander the mystical Djma el Fna Square in the Pink City of Marrakech. Looking for a little adventure? Enjoy a 4x4 desert adventure, looking for hidden kasbahs & secret gold mines.

2 of 25

Chile

Courtesy of Awasi Atacama

From the cultural hub of Santiago to the desolate Atacama Desert, Chile has something for everyone. Highlights include stargazing over the Andes Range, exploring the picturesque cliffs of Easter Island, and eating like a local through the popular food markets of Santiago.

3 of 25

Croatia

Sabine Lubenow/Getty Images

Discover Croatia's rich history in the town of Split before taking a cruise on its crystal-clear waters to the stunning Dalmation coast.

4 of 25

Canada

Grant Harder

Travel from West to East in this 16-night adventure across Canada's best cities and breathtaking landscapes.

5 of 25

Australia

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Experience everything Australia has to offer: head to the spiritual site of Uluru to see one of the world's best sunsets, explore the wineries of Barossa Valley and snorkel in the Great Barrier Reef.

6 of 25

Ireland

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Incredible vistas, rich history and ornate castles make Ireland a trip to remember. Visiting Dublin, Kissing the Blarney Stone and experiencing the 40-mile drive along the Ring of Kerry are all activities not to miss.

7 of 25

Iceland

Courtesy of AdventureLink

It's no secret Iceland is having a bit of a moment. Its breathtaking glaciers, waterfalls and geothermal regions make it a must-see destination this year.

8 of 25

Colombia

David Nicolas

Vibrant cities, historical settlements and lush rain forest make this South American gem perfect for every traveler.

9 of 25

Ecuador

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Head to Ecuador for Summer 2017 where you'll enjoy a scenic drive along the "Avenue of the Volcanoes" and El Cajas National Park, as well as the iconic train journey aboard the Devil's Nose Train.

10 of 25

Italy

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Live the Italian dream on an 8-day luxury guided tour where you'll savor Montepulciano and explore the sites of Rome, Florence, Bologna and Venice.

11 of 25

Galapagos

Courtesy of AdventureLink

See all the Galapagos has to offer with a Galapagos Safari Camp adventure. Search for giant tortoises, go scuba diving and visit one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

12 of 25

India

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Treat yourself to amazing dining, beautiful hotels and dynamic cities while exploring Amber Fort, Rathambore, Agra and Jaipur.

13 of 25

Myanmar

Frédéric Lagrange

On the cusp of a major change, this Southeast Asian country is still pure. Visit the enchanting cities of Yangon, Kalaw and more.

14 of 25

Laos

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Sit back and relax in Laos. Learn about bamboo weaving, dining and experience a traditional Lao blessing in a local family home.

15 of 25

New Zealand

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Make the most of your New Zealand adventure with a tour of Auckland, a cruise on Milford Sound, and fall in love with the waterfalls of Mt. Cook.

16 of 25

Mexico

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Journey into the heart of Mexico to experience its rich history and unchanged traditions.

17 of 25

Peru

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Love food? This is the trip for you. Cruise the Amazon and enjoy the delicious tastes of Peru before meeting locals and heading to the Picaya National reserve for close encounters with monkeys, manatees and more.

18 of 25

Palm Springs

Jakob N. Layman/Photo courtesy of Avalon Hotel

Take in the design, culture and sun with a with a trip to Palm Springs.

19 of 25

San Francisco

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Sip it all in this season with a trip through wine country.

20 of 25

Spain

Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

High fashion, art and delicious food come together in this trip of a lifetime to Spain. Experience Madrid, Seville and so much more with this experience infused with local flavors and traditions.

21 of 25

Nicaragua

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Visit the land of lakes and volcanoes in Nicaragua. Adventure lovers, get ready to explore lava-made tunnels and caves before tasting local rum and sweet chocolate.

22 of 25

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

Dennis Sabo/Getty Images

Enjoy beautiful beaches, clear waters and unspoiled nature with an off-the-radar vacation in the Caribbean with a trip to St. Vincent and the Grenadine islands.

23 of 25

Vietnam

Courtesy of AdventureLink

Tour bustling Ho Chi Minh City on a vespa before visiting My Son Holy land and going on a UNESCO Halong overnight cruise.

24 of 25

Tennessee

Andrew Hetherington

Head to Tennessee for great music and great food as you visit music city and the food mecca of Walland.

25 of 25

Mongolia

Courtesy of Black Tomato

Fly half-way across the world to experience the best horseback riding and glamping in Mongolia.

Replay gallery

Your Profile

25 Vacations to Give for the Holidays

1 of 25

Morocco

1 of 25

2 of 25

Chile

2 of 25

3 of 25

Croatia

3 of 25

4 of 25

Canada

4 of 25

5 of 25

Australia

5 of 25

6 of 25

Ireland

6 of 25

7 of 25

Iceland

7 of 25

8 of 25

Colombia

8 of 25

9 of 25

Ecuador

9 of 25

10 of 25

Italy

10 of 25

11 of 25

Galapagos

11 of 25

12 of 25

India

12 of 25

13 of 25

Myanmar

13 of 25

14 of 25

Laos

14 of 25

15 of 25

New Zealand

15 of 25

16 of 25

Mexico

16 of 25

17 of 25

Peru

17 of 25

18 of 25

Palm Springs

18 of 25

19 of 25

San Francisco

19 of 25

20 of 25

Spain

20 of 25

21 of 25

Nicaragua

21 of 25

22 of 25

St. Vincent and the Grenadines

22 of 25

23 of 25

Vietnam

23 of 25

24 of 25

Tennessee

24 of 25

25 of 25

Mongolia

25 of 25

Share the Gallery

Up Next

Share the Gallery