How Thailand, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the US Are Boosting Easter Weekend Travel with Popular Getaway Destinations, A Wide Look - Travel And Tour World (2025)

Friday, April 18, 2025

As travel continues its post-pandemic surge across continents, a new trend is emerging in how Thailand, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the US are boosting Easter weekend travel with popular getaway destinations. No longer confined to traditional Western observance, Easter weekend has evolved into a global travel opportunity. From Asia’s bustling megacities to America’s sun-soaked coastal towns, countries are actively leveraging the extended holiday to reignite tourism, drive domestic travel, and offer enticing short-haul experiences.

In particular, Thailand, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the US are implementing creative strategies to encourage travelers to book quick escapes and meaningful breaks during the long Easter weekend. Whether it’s cherry blossom tours in Japan, island retreats in Thailand, luxury staycations in India, or shopping getaways in the US, Easter weekend has become a vital calendar date for tourism boards and travel operators.

Across these diverse nations, airlines have increased capacity, hoteliers are offering flash deals, and tourism ministries are rolling out geo-targeted campaigns to drive attention toward their most popular getaway destinations. Easter weekend travel is being fueled by demand from families, millennials, and last-minute adventurers eager to make the most of the four-day window.

This coordinated effort shows how Thailand, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the US are turning Easter weekend into an engine for short-term tourism recovery and long-term destination branding—all by spotlighting their most popular getaway destinations.

As the world embraces seasonal mobility once more, the Easter weekend of 2025 has evolved into a highly strategic period for governments, airlines, tourism boards, and hospitality providers across key global markets. Notably, countries across Asia Pacific and North America—including Thailand, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the United States—are actively boosting Easter weekend travel through curated short-haul destinations, vibrant domestic tourism campaigns, and value-driven holiday packages.

With changing work cultures, increased digital nomadism, and rising middle-class spending, the once religious-centric Easter holiday has transformed into a prime travel window globally. The four-day weekend, spanning Good Friday through Easter Monday, has become a launchpad for leisure-driven micro-trips, especially in regions where international borders are more porous or domestic connectivity is high.

Thailand: A Domestic Resurgence Fuels Coastal and Cultural Travel

Thailand’s Tourism Authority has leveraged Easter 2025 to promote coastal getaways and cultural destinations like Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and Pattaya. Domestic airlines such as Thai VietJet and Nok Air introduced flash sales for Easter weekend, while Bangkok hotels partnered with travel apps to roll out weekend-only packages.

Short-haul inbound tourists from Singapore, Malaysia, and Vietnam also flooded into Thai resorts, aided by visa waivers and air frequency increases. Easter-themed events in Phuket and Bangkok, though not religious in nature, showcased family-friendly experiences, spa retreats, and culinary festivals aimed at regional travelers.

China: Rise of “Mini Golden Week” Driving Urban Escapes

In China, where Easter isn’t a formal holiday, the weekend aligned closely with consumer fatigue from Q1 routines. Travel apps such as Ctrip and Fliggy reported a surge in city escapes to Hangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi’an, driven by a growing appetite for wellness travel and cultural immersion.

High-speed rail and domestic air carriers launched “three-day, two-night” packages. Tier-2 cities like Kunming and Guiyang gained attention due to lower hotel prices and nature-centric options. The Easter travel window, while not official, has taken on a “mini golden week” identity among China’s younger, white-collar population.

India: Faith, Festivals, and Beachfront Escapes

India experienced an Easter surge driven by both religious tourism and leisure escapes. Goa, Kerala, and Ooty became top choices for Christian families observing the holiday, while secular tourists leveraged the long weekend to explore hill stations like Manali and Mussoorie.

Rail and air connectivity saw capacity boosts, especially from cities like Mumbai and Bengaluru. The Incredible India campaign, in partnership with Indian Railways and state tourism boards, launched Easter-specific packages including spiritual retreats, art festivals, and culinary tours. Rising disposable income and strong mobile booking penetration made short-notice travel more accessible to Gen Z and Millennial Indians.

Malaysia: Multiculturalism Meets Urban Exploration

For Malaysia, the Easter weekend offered a perfect opportunity to blend its multicultural heritage with urban exploration, targeting both locals and inbound tourists from Indonesia and Singapore. Kuala Lumpur, Melaka, and Langkawi saw spikes in bookings, while the Malaysia Super Sale promoted retail tourism with discounts of up to 70%.

The Visit Malaysia 2026 pre-campaigns leveraged Easter as a branding moment, distributing curated travel itineraries and hosting small concerts and food fairs that coincided with the holiday. Malaysia’s medical tourism offerings also saw modest growth during Easter, especially among health-conscious Indonesians.

Indonesia: Island Hopping and Spiritual Experiences

In Indonesia, where Easter is a recognized holiday among Christian communities, domestic tourism soared. Travelers from Jakarta, Surabaya, and Medan packed outbound flights to Bali, Labuan Bajo, and Yogyakarta. These destinations featured special Easter brunches, art markets, and sunrise church services on the beach, particularly in Catholic-majority areas of East Nusa Tenggara.

The Indonesian Ministry of Tourism ran Easter-themed influencer campaigns focusing on “soulful escapes,” blending religious and wellness tourism. Travel platforms such as Tiket.com and Traveloka introduced bundle deals with instant cashback for Easter weekend bookings.

Vietnam: Easter as an Urban Wellness Moment

Vietnam, while not a traditional Easter destination, saw its urban middle class use the holiday as a time for short spa breaks and staycations. In Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, boutique hotels saw a rise in local guests, especially couples and families seeking luxury at accessible rates.

The government-backed “Hello Weekend” campaign was revived for Easter, highlighting art districts, street food crawls, and eco-retreats within a 2–3-hour radius of major cities. The result was a spike in intra-country tourism with a digital-first booking experience tailored to younger Vietnamese travelers.

Australia: Domestic Flights and Coastal Family Fun

Australia’s Easter travel rush was marked by coastal family getaways, road trips, and music festivals. According to Qantas and Jetstar, bookings to Byron Bay, Gold Coast, and Hobart reached near pre-pandemic highs. Easter-themed events such as egg hunts, outdoor cinemas, and vineyard tours filled local calendars.

The Australian Tourism Board amplified “Rediscover Australia” messaging for the weekend, promoting Indigenous tourism and glamping stays. Despite weather-related challenges in some areas, the four-day weekend created a significant spike in hotel occupancy, car rentals, and ferry bookings.

Japan: Sakura Season Meets Long Weekend Momentum

Though Easter is not an official Japanese holiday, it conveniently overlapped with peak cherry blossom (sakura) season in regions like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima. Domestic and international travelers from South Korea, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia arrived in droves, turning the Easter weekend into a de facto travel high season.

Japan’s regional tourism offices launched “Sakura Trails” and temple-focused walking tours. With the Japanese yen remaining weaker, inbound tourism from the US and Australia also increased during Easter. Japan’s ability to link cultural events with non-religious global holidays has proven to be a savvy tourism tactic.

South Korea: Family-Friendly City Breaks and Pop Culture Pilgrimages

South Korea used Easter 2025 to boost domestic tourism within Seoul, Busan, and Jeju Island. While not a traditional celebration, the holiday aligned with the country’s strong pop culture tourism strategy, attracting visitors to K-drama filming locations, themed cafes, and fan exhibitions.

The Korea Tourism Organization promoted K-wave weekend packages, integrating BTS landmarks, Hanbok rentals, and night market visits. Domestic airlines also slashed prices for short-haul domestic flights, leading to a 20% bump in weekend passenger traffic compared to March averages.

United States: National Parks, Short Cruises, and Budget Airlines

In the United States, Easter weekend remains a high-demand travel period. In 2025, airlines like Southwest, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines saw full bookings to short-haul domestic destinations such as Orlando, Las Vegas, Charleston, and San Diego. Family-friendly locations, national parks, and religious tourism hotspots like St. Augustine and Salt Lake City topped travel lists.

Cruise operators including Carnival and Royal Caribbean offered Easter weekend specials, especially for Bahamas and Caribbean routes departing from Florida and Texas ports. The US Travel Association also reported a strong rebound in car rental bookings and domestic air travel, buoyed by stable fuel prices and promotional fares.

Weekend Getaway Escapes: Top Short-Haul Destinations in Thailand, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the US

Weekend travel is on the rise across the globe as time-starved explorers seek short, refreshing breaks that offer both convenience and novelty. Whether it’s a mountain retreat, coastal hideaway, or urban cultural hub, weekend destinations provide a much-needed pause without demanding too much planning or time off. In some of the world’s most dynamic travel markets—Thailand, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the United States—the trend of two-to-three-day micro trips is reshaping tourism and fueling local economies. Here’s a curated look at popular weekend destinations in each of these countries, perfect for both locals and international visitors.

Thailand: Chiang Mai’s Cultural Serenity

Northern Thailand’s Chiang Mai is a perennial favorite for weekenders. Just an hour’s flight from Bangkok, the city blends ancient temples with laid-back cafes, bustling night bazaars, and scenic mountains. Visitors can wander the Old City, take part in traditional Lanna cooking classes, or enjoy a relaxed evening at the Nimmanhaemin district. For those seeking nature, a day trip to Doi Suthep or a visit to an elephant sanctuary completes the escape.

China: Hangzhou’s Lakeside Beauty

For residents of Shanghai or nearby cities, Hangzhou offers a tranquil yet sophisticated weekend break. The city is known for its scenic West Lake, tea plantations, and ancient pagodas. Only an hour away by high-speed train, Hangzhou combines modern luxury hotels with traditional Chinese landscapes. Activities such as cycling around the lake, sampling Longjing tea, and exploring the Lingyin Temple provide a calm antidote to urban life.

India: Udaipur’s Regal Romance

In India, Udaipur has become a top weekend destination for those seeking history and luxury. Often called the “City of Lakes,” Udaipur is filled with grand palaces, boutique hotels, and romantic boat rides. Easily accessible by air and rail from Delhi and Mumbai, the city offers a royal escape complete with Rajasthani cuisine, cultural performances, and immersive heritage walks.

Malaysia: Langkawi’s Island Escape

Langkawi, a duty-free island in northwest Malaysia, is a weekend paradise. With its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and lush rainforests, it attracts both locals and tourists. Short flights from Kuala Lumpur make it an easy getaway. Highlights include cable car rides to the Sky Bridge, island hopping, and relaxing in seaside resorts. Families, honeymooners, and solo travelers all find Langkawi appealing for its variety and affordability.

Indonesia: Yogyakarta’s Heritage and Art

Yogyakarta in Central Java is an ideal cultural getaway from Jakarta or Bali. Known for its proximity to the Borobudur and Prambanan temples, it’s also a center for batik art, traditional dance, and local crafts. The city’s relaxed pace, historic sites, and delicious food make it a favorite among Indonesians looking to unplug for a weekend. Yogyakarta’s growing café scene and affordable accommodations add to its appeal.

Vietnam: Da Lat’s Mountain Charm

Located in Vietnam’s Central Highlands, Da Lat is a beloved retreat from the heat and chaos of Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its cool weather, pine forests, and French colonial architecture, Da Lat offers a peaceful setting for couples and families alike. Strawberry farms, flower gardens, and scenic waterfalls provide plenty of photo-worthy spots, while the night market keeps visitors entertained after dark.

Australia: Blue Mountains’ Natural Wonder

Just a two-hour drive from Sydney, the Blue Mountains are a go-to weekend destination for Australians. With hiking trails, dramatic cliffs, and eucalyptus forests, it’s a playground for nature lovers. Echo Point, the Three Sisters rock formation, and scenic cable cars provide jaw-dropping views. Boutique guesthouses and charming villages like Leura and Katoomba round out the perfect weekend escape.

Japan: Hakone’s Hot Springs

Japan’s weekenders frequently flock to Hakone, located about 90 minutes from Tokyo. Known for its onsen (hot springs), art museums, and views of Mount Fuji, Hakone is the ultimate detox destination. Visitors can ride the Hakone Ropeway, cruise on Lake Ashi, and explore the Open-Air Museum. Ryokans (traditional inns) offer a full cultural experience complete with Japanese breakfasts and tatami rooms.

South Korea: Jeonju’s Culinary Delights

For Koreans living in Seoul, Jeonju offers a charming blend of food, culture, and history just a few hours away. Home to Korea’s iconic bibimbap and the Hanok Village, Jeonju offers a glimpse into traditional Korean life. Visitors can wear hanbok (traditional dress), walk cobblestone streets, and enjoy local soju tastings. It’s a perfect weekend cultural fix with a delicious twist.

United States: Charleston’s Southern Charm

In the southeastern US, Charleston, South Carolina stands out as a top weekend destination. Its cobbled streets, pastel historic homes, and coastal scenery make it a charming escape from urban hubs like Atlanta or Charlotte. Charleston’s rich history, culinary excellence, and walkable downtown cater to all ages. Weekend farmers markets, jazz brunches, and harbor cruises make it an immersive experience.

Easter Tourism 2025 in Numbers and Impact

• In Thailand, weekend hotel occupancy reached 82% in major resort areas
• India’s rail bookings for Easter saw a 12% increase YoY
• Australia’s domestic air traffic surged by 18% over 2024’s Easter weekend
• Japan received 22% more inbound tourists during the sakura-Easter overlap
• Indonesia logged 1.2 million domestic tourist movements during the Easter weekend
• Vietnam’s urban hotels reported 92% occupancy rates in top three cities
• The US recorded a 20% spike in TSA screenings from Thursday to Sunday

A Global Holiday Reimagined Through Local Lenses

Easter weekend in 2025 has transcended its religious origins to become a global travel accelerator. For countries like Thailand, China, India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the United States, the holiday has become an economic opportunity, a marketing hook, and a moment to showcase local culture to both domestic and inbound audiences.

Whether it’s a beach in Bali, a cherry blossom in Kyoto, a spiritual retreat in Goa, or a canyon hike in Arizona, the Easter weekend has been successfully repurposed as a moment of escape, reflection, and reconnection. And as the travel industry evolves, these short, emotionally charged getaways may become the heartbeat of global tourism growth.