Celebration vacations’ on the rise as UK travellers swap parties for passport stamps, new survey finds
Celebration vacations are on the rise, as more people swap parties for passport stamps to mark life’s biggest milestones. From weddings and retirements to birthdays and new jobs, searches for ‘anniversary holidays’ are soaring at 585k monthly, ‘birthday trip ideas for couples’ have doubled YoY, and ‘celebration vacations’ is up 57% in the last month alone.
A new survey of 1,000 UK travellers, commissioned by Citalia, found that over half (56%) believe celebrating a major milestone abroad turns their trip into a once-in-a-lifetime story, whilst 47% say travel makes milestone moments truly unforgettable.
92% of UK holiday goers shared they would consider Italy for a celebration break4, Head of Product Heather Green at Citalia shares four handpicked destinations designed for unforgettable moments, whether you’re toasting a big birthday on the Amalfi Coast or saying “yes” under the Roman sun.
Two-thirds of travellers say celebration trips help them create unforgettable memories with loved ones
Many of us have celebrated a milestone abroad and returned home with memories that last far beyond the trip itself. This is largely because 41% agree they’ll create meaningful experiences they’ll carry with them and 54% said the celebration itself was made more memorable by heading on holiday.
In fact, 32% believe it deepens their connection with the people they’re celebrating with. The majority choose to travel with their partner (43%), while 26% opt for same generation family members, and 17% enjoy a multi-generational getaway, showing how these trips are just as much about togetherness as they are about the destination.
So, what are the most popular moments we’re celebrating abroad – and why are they capturing our hearts?
| Which of the following life milestones have you celebrated, or would consider celebrating, abroad? | % |
| Wedding Anniversary | 36% |
| Milestone Birthday | 35% |
| Retirement | 12% |
| Engagement | 5% |
| Personal Achievement | 5% |
For many, the chance to connect more deeply with loved ones is at the heart of celebrating a wedding anniversary abroad, which is why 36% would choose to mark the occasion overseas, and 35% naming milestone birthdays as the perfect reason for a special escape.
Whether it’s about escaping routine, soaking up new cultures, or creating moments you’ll never forget, celebrating abroad adds a unique layer of meaning. Retirement trips came in next at 12%, seen as a fitting way to mark the beginning of a new chapter.
Over two in five UK travellers say food and drink is the most important factor when choosing where to celebrate a special occasion abroad
For those aged 35–44, they are especially driven by culinary appeal, with 40% prioritising food and drink when it comes to planning a celebratory holiday.
Older generations value escaping the everyday and reconnecting with loved ones, with nearly a quarter of those aged 55–64 saying this is their main reason for travelling. Meanwhile, 52% of those aged 65 and over said that weather was the most important factor when choosing a destination to celebrate.
| What are the most important factors when choosing a destination to celebrate a special occasion?
|
% | Which experiences would you find most appealing while celebrating abroad? | % |
| Food and drink | 42% | Boat tour or sailing trip | 31% |
| Beautiful Scenery | 39% | Fine dining experience | 28% |
| Weather | 38% | Wine tasting or vineyard | 27% |
| Culture and history | 34% | Hiking a famous trail | 25% |
| Activities and experiences | 18% | Cultural tour | 25% |
Beautiful scenery tops the list for 39% of travellers when choosing a destination and Italy has that in abundance, from rolling hills to coastal views. Fine dining at 28% and wine tasting at 27% are also top choices, and with its food and wine heritage, Italy is a natural fit. Hiking iconic trails or uncovering hidden gems on cultural tours are go to choices for 25% of travellers looking to add a little adventure to their celebration.
Amalfi Coast revealed as the most popular destination for milestone celebrations
With 92% of people expressing interest in celebrating in Italy, research by Citalia reveals the Amalfi Coast as the top destination of choice as 51% said they’d choose to celebrate there.
“There’s nowhere quite like the Amalfi Coast for a truly memorable celebration,” says Heather Green. “Taking a boat day and sailing along the coast with a glass of prosecco is the perfect way to soak up the breathtaking scenery. From the sparkling sea views to dining on Delizia al Limone surrounded by citrus groves, the Amalfi Coast is Italy at its most magical.”
Rome ranks as the second most popular destination for milestone celebrations
39% confirmed that Rome would be their destination of choice to commemorate, and it’s easy to see why as Heather adds “Rome is the perfect backdrop for any celebration, its rich history, vibrant culture, and festive atmosphere create lasting moments that bring people together.”
Venice emerges as the third favourite destination for milestone celebrations
Heather shares, “Venice captivates with its beautiful canals, historic charm, and lively festivals. Whether you’re enjoying a gondola ride or savouring delicious local dishes, every moment spent here creates memories that stay with you.”
It makes perfect sense that 34% of people chose Venice as their top destination for celebrations.
Commenting on the growing trend of combining travel with special occasions, Heather says: “It’s no surprise guests are looking to celebrate major milestones from retirement, birthdays to anniversaries in Italy. With the ease of travelling between destinations, guests can see more of Italy in and create lasting memories and spend quality time with loved ones.”
“Italy lends itself perfectly to these kinds of trips, whether it’s a sunset dinner on the Amalfi Coast, a private gondola ride in Venice, or wine tasting in the rolling hills of Tuscany. The country’s mix of culture, scenery, and warm hospitality makes it an unforgettable setting for life’s most meaningful moments.
“At Citalia, we help travellers plan every detail so they can focus on the celebration, knowing they’ll experience the very best of Italy.”
To find out more information about how to celebrate your special moments in Italy, please visit: https://www.citalia.com/blog/top-celebration-trips-to-italy/