From hidden cultural gems to breathtaking natural wonders, explore our curated list of the best Travel Destinations for an unforgettable 2025.
Travel possesses an unparalleled ability to connect us with the world, ignite our imaginations, and even reshape our perspectives. The awe-inspiring sight of a powerful waterfall cascading in Newfoundland or the majestic peaks of the Italian Dolomites piercing the sky remind us of the Earth’s incredible beauty. However, as much as travel can be a force for good, recent times have highlighted its potential to strain and even damage the very places we cherish. Many popular destinations are now implementing new strategies to manage the impact of overtourism, seeking a more sustainable path forward.
In this guide to the top travel destinations for the upcoming year, we aim to spotlight locations that not only extend a warm welcome to visitors and promise exceptional travel experiences but also leverage tourism as a catalyst for positive change. Each of these 25 destinations is committed to using tourism to uplift local communities, safeguard the environment, or preserve their unique cultural heritage. This list is the result of insights gathered from seasoned BBC Travel journalists and contributions from leading voices in sustainable travel, including organizations like the United Nations World Travel Organization, Sustainable Travel International, the Black Travel Alliance, and the World Travel & Tourism Council.
As global tourism rebounds beyond pre-pandemic levels and the effects of climate change become increasingly visible, thoughtful travel choices are more critical than ever. Choosing where to travel is now also about considering how your journey can contribute to a greater good.
Whether it’s trekking through surreal landscapes in Bolivia or experiencing Arctic glamping in Greenland, the world’s largest island, your next extraordinary adventure awaits.
A new airport in Nuuk is set to make Greenland and its Arctic attractions more accessible in 2025 (Credit: Getty Images)
1. Dominica
Imagine swimming alongside magnificent sperm whales in their natural habitat. Dominica, a stunning Caribbean island, now offers this ethical and sustainable experience as part of its pioneering commitment to marine conservation and regenerative tourism. The island nation has recently established the world’s first sperm whale reserve, a protected marine sanctuary dedicated to safeguarding its resident whale population. Limited permits for whale swims ensure intimate and respectful encounters, allowing visitors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with these incredible marine mammals while supporting vital research and creating sustainable tourism opportunities for local communities.
Dominica is also enhancing its infrastructure to welcome visitors in 2025. Digital immigration forms will streamline arrivals, and a new cable-car system will transport guests from Roseau Valley to Boiling Lake, one of the world’s largest thermal springs. Getting to Dominica is now easier than ever, with United Airlines launching direct flights from Newark starting February 15th, in addition to existing American Airlines flights from Miami. Several new hotels are also opening in 2025, including the luxurious six-star Hilton Tranquility Beach Resort and Spa in Salisbury, adding nearly 500 rooms and increasing inventory by 25%. For a consistently top-rated sustainable option, consider Secret Bay, a luxury eco-property frequently recognized for its commitment to the environment.
Dominica is pioneering sustainable tourism with its new sperm whale reserve. (Credit: Alamy)
Dominica is also the base for Project CETI, a groundbreaking international initiative led by National Geographic Explorer David Gruber, aiming to decode whale language using AI to understand their complex communication. Beyond marine adventures, Dominica invites exploration of hidden gorges, towering waterfalls, and unique culinary experiences at farm-to-table restaurants like Lacou. Dominica is not just a destination; it’s a model for eco-tourism, balancing biodiversity conservation with economic growth, ensuring your adventure contributes to protecting this natural paradise for future generations. This makes Dominica a leading choice for conscious travelers seeking unique and impactful travel destinations.
2. Naoshima, Japan
Known for Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow Pumpkin sculpture, the Japanese island of Naoshima has transformed into a premier destination for contemporary art and architecture enthusiasts. Once primarily known for its copper smelting industry and the associated pollution, Naoshima’s remarkable transformation is thanks to Benesse Art Site Naoshima. This initiative has established major museums and site-specific art installations across the stunning landscapes of the Seto Inland Sea, situated between Japan’s main island of Honshu and Shikoku, in a region facing population decline.
Spring 2025 marks the opening of the Naoshima New Museum of Art, designed by the acclaimed architect Tadao Ando, who has already contributed to nine other projects on the island. This new museum, showcasing works by Asian artists, will be a highlight of this year’s Setouchi Triennale. This art festival will spread across 17 islands and coastal areas of the Seto Inland Sea, featuring events and artwork unveilings over 100 days, split across spring, summer, and autumn to allow visitors to appreciate the region across different seasons. This edition is the largest Triennale since its inception in 2010. The festival and Benesse Art Site Naoshima have been crucial in revitalizing Naoshima and neighboring islands like Teshima and Inujima, making them key travel destinations for art and culture lovers.
Naoshima Island in Japan, a rising star among contemporary art travel destinations. (Credit: Alamy)
Plan ahead to visit the Teshima Art Museum by Rei Naito and Ryue Nishizawa, a unique fusion of art, architecture, and nature. On Inujima, the remnants of a historic copper refinery have been reimagined as an epic art installation. For accommodation, consider Roka, a contemporary ryokan on Naoshima, or the minimalist Espoir Inn on Teshima. Naoshima and its surrounding islands offer a unique blend of art, culture, and natural beauty, establishing them as must-visit travel destinations in 2025.
3. The Dolomites, Italy
Italy, a perennial favorite, hardly needs further promotion, especially in a year when its capital, Rome, already grappling with overtourism, will be even more crowded due to the 2025 Jubilee. However, if Italy is on your 2025 travel list, consider venturing north to the breathtaking Dolomite Mountains.
For Italians, the dramatically beautiful Dolomites are synonymous with family vacations and luxury getaways. The striking sawtooth limestone cliffs span the regions of Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. They attract Italians year-round for their charming villages, world-class skiing, epic hiking trails, and hearty Alpine cuisine. Often overlooked by international tourists, this classic Italian playground is poised to gain global recognition as a premier travel destination.
The Dolomites in Italy, an increasingly popular choice among European travel destinations. (Credit: Getty Images)
Cortina d’Ampezzo, known as the “Queen of the Dolomites,” will co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics. Preparations throughout 2025 will bring significant infrastructure improvements, adding to the pre-Olympic excitement. Visitors can expect expanded ski lift networks in the Dolomiti Superski area, with modernized lifts and improved public transport connections in towns like Alta Badia and Val Gardena. New and upgraded cable cars and gondolas will also be introduced across the region.
The Dolomites are captivating year-round. Spring, summer, and autumn offer excellent hiking, including the new 170km Cammino Retico (The Rhaetian Way), a seven-day trail connecting remote villages between Veneto and Trentino. For ultimate relaxation, the luxurious Aman Rosa Alpina hotel will reopen in 2025 with 51 guest rooms and suites, including two presidential suites and the private Chalet Zeno. Visit the Dolomites now, before the crowds fully discover this alpine paradise, solidifying its place as one of the top travel destinations in 2025.
4. Greenland
There is truly no place on Earth quite like Greenland. Spanning over two million square kilometers, the world’s largest island is home to fewer than 57,000 people. Its vast ice cap, spectacular mountains, unspoiled wilderness, and majestic fjords offer adventures of a lifetime. Greenland is not only a coveted geopolitical entity but also an unparalleled travel destination.
Greenland offers stunning hiking and incredible whale watching in summer, and traditional dog sledding and the magical aurora borealis in winter, making it a bucket-list destination. However, its remoteness, expense, and long travel times have been barriers – until now.
With the opening of a new international airport in Nuuk, the capital city, and two more airports planned for 2026, accessing Greenland is easier than ever. The country is welcoming mindful adventure travelers who appreciate exploring while respecting its incredible nature and unique Inuit culture. Greenland has adopted a “pledge towards better tourism” and new legislation to direct tourism funds to benefit local communities.
Greenland is opening up to more accessible tourism with new airport infrastructure. (Credit: Getty Images)
Nuuk, a modern town with a historic waterfront, informative museums, and impressive art galleries, serves as a gateway to hiking, fishing, glamping, and exploring the Arctic territory. Further north in Ilulissat, visitors can marvel at the breathtaking icebergs of Disko Bay and the dramatic, UNESCO-recognized Icefjord. Southern Greenland, once settled by Vikings, features beautiful fjords and scenic green hills dotted with sheep farms. Greenland’s increased accessibility and commitment to sustainable tourism make it a leading choice for adventurous and responsible travel destinations in 2025.
5. Wales
Though only one-sixth the size of England and less visited than its UK counterparts, Wales is packed with stunning national parks, impressive medieval castles, and a welcome absence of crowds, enhancing its appeal. 2025 presents an extra reason to explore this rising European destination: Wales is celebrating the Year of Croeso (“Welcome”). This year-long event highlights Welsh culture, language, and attractions, inviting visitors to “Feel the hwyl,” a Welsh word describing a deep, immersive joy.
In recent years, Wales has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable and culturally focused travel. Tourism plays a role in reviving the Welsh language, and the nation is investing £5 billion in a multi-year program using tourism funds to enhance environmental sustainability across destinations. For the Year of Croeso, Wales is investing in mobility bikes to improve accessibility for adventure seekers. Wales is also home to the Wales Coast Path, the only path globally that spans an entire country’s coastline.
Wales, celebrating the Year of Croeso in 2025, is a top cultural travel destination. (Credit: Getty Images)
Wales offers a rich blend of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and sustainable tourism practices, making it an excellent choice among travel destinations in 2025. The Year of Croeso makes it the perfect time to discover the unique charm and beauty of Wales.
6. Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Labrador, the mainland part of Newfoundland and Labrador in eastern Canada, is a vast, rugged region known for its windswept coastal villages, towering icebergs, subarctic forests, and massive waterfalls, steeped in over 9,000 years of history. In 2025, the completion of the final stage of the 1,200km Trans-Labrador Highway, a nearly 25-year, $1 billion project, transforms this remote 294,330 sq km landscape into a more accessible travel destination.
The new circular route, Expedition 51, connects Labrador with five Canadian provinces, offering detours into the US and even France via St Pierre and Miquelon. To promote sustainable tourism and celebrate the cultural heritage of this formerly isolated region, the Canadian government has invested $180 million in Parks Canada sites in Western Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2025, Red Bay National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Basque whaling station, will unveil a new interactive boardwalk and visitor center. L’Anse aux Meadows, the site of the first Norse settlement in North America, is enhancing ecological protections and upgrading visitor facilities. Gros Morne National Park will introduce new interpretive exhibits highlighting its dramatic geology, wildlife, and landscapes.
Labrador in Canada, newly accessible as a premier nature travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Western Newfoundland and Labrador, with improved accessibility and enhanced visitor experiences, emerges as a compelling travel destination in 2025 for those seeking raw natural beauty and rich history. The completion of the Trans-Labrador Highway opens up vast opportunities for exploration and adventure.
7. Tucson, Arizona, US
Tucson, Arizona, has much to celebrate in 2025. It marks the 10th anniversary of becoming the first US city designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and the 250th anniversary of its founding. Originally part of Mexico, Tucson will celebrate its unique multinational history and deep-rooted Native American cultures with a free event on August 23rd at the Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, featuring traditional Mexican music and dance. Throughout the year, visitors can explore Tucson’s desert hiking trails and historic buildings, such as the 250-year-old San Xavier del Bac, the “White Dove of the Desert.” This dedication to preservation contributes to Tucson receiving a Sustainability Index Award from the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS) this year.
The gardens near San Xavier del Bac reveal an even richer history: they are the oldest continuously cultivated soil in the US. Four thousand years ago, the Tohono O’odham’s ancestors farmed squash, beans, and corn here. Over centuries, these ancient herbs and crops have blended with Mexican and Indigenous flavors and remain staples in Tucson’s cuisine. Diners can experience Tucson’s unique food scene at city-of-gastronomy-certified restaurants or Heirloom Farmers Markets, featuring local ingredients like chiltepin chilis, nopales (edible cacti), and prickly pear.
Tucson, Arizona, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and top US cultural travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Tucson’s rich culinary heritage, cultural celebrations, and commitment to sustainability position it as a noteworthy travel destination in 2025. Its unique blend of history, gastronomy, and natural beauty offers a distinct American travel experience.
8. Western Australia
Perth, known as the world’s most isolated big city, and the state of Western Australia (WA) have long been overshadowed by Australia’s east coast cities. However, with Australia’s only direct flights to Europe, Perth is establishing itself as Australia’s western gateway and a global aviation hub, with a $5 billion redevelopment of Perth Airport enhancing the travel experience. New connections to Asia further position WA as a must-visit destination in 2025.
But it’s not just about accessibility; it’s about what WA offers. Beyond Perth and the Swan Valley Wine Region, WA’s vast landscapes span over 2.5 million sq km, including 12,500km of coastline, bubblegum-pink lakes, horizontal waterfalls, karri forests, wildflowers, wineries, and wildlife encounters like swimming with whale sharks and quokkas, the “happiest animal in the world.” Sustainability-minded travelers can explore it all on the new 6,600km Electric Vehicle Highway, the world’s longest EV charging network.
Western Australia, an emerging Australian travel destination with unique landscapes and wildlife. (Credit: Getty Images)
WA is also celebrating its rich cultural heritage through the A$20 million Jina Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan, supporting authentic Indigenous-led experiences and business development. Learn about the oldest living cultures on Earth on a truth-telling walking tour in Rockingham or a 4WD coast foraging tour with a bush barbecue in Broome. Ancient petroglyphs at Murujuga National Park (under consideration for UNESCO status in 2025), new disability-friendly infrastructure on the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, boutique hotels in Fremantle, and unique stays in the Great Southern further enhance WA’s appeal. Western Australia is redefining Australian travel, making it a top travel destination in 2025.
9. Sri Lanka
From misty tea plantations and wild elephants to ancient temples and surf-friendly waves, Sri Lanka is a diverse and appealing country. Following economic challenges in 2022, Sri Lanka is rebuilding its tourism sector to recover.
The resilient island nation is focused on tourism for recovery. Kandy will see the opening of its first seven-star hotel, Aviyana Private Chalets, while Aarunya Nature Resort has a new family villa with a stargazing oculus. A $1 billion mega-resort is opening in Colombo, and Sri Lanka’s new airline, Air Ceilão, will launch flights to Europe and Australia. The nation has also launched the Good Travel Seal initiative, recognizing local businesses committed to sustainable practices.
Kandy, Sri Lanka, a cultural hub and key travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Visitors seeking cooler climates can take a scenic train ride into the mountainous interior or explore Colombo and Galle to discover innovative mixologists using arrack, a 5th-century spirit. The island has also opened the 300km Pekoe Trail, for hikers exploring tea plantations and rural villages in the Central Highlands. For independent exploration, an innovative startup offers self-drive tuk-tuk rentals across the island, directly benefiting local owners. Sri Lanka’s blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and renewed tourism focus makes it a compelling travel destination in 2025.
10. Panama
After decades of US management, Panama took control of the Panama Canal in 1999. 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of Panama’s sovereignty over this vital waterway. As discussions around the canal’s future continue, new permanent exhibits at the Museo del Canal highlight Panama’s path to rule, adding timely context.
Panama offers much more than the canal, including vast jungles, idyllic islands, and mountainous forests. In 2024, the Meaningful Travel Map to Panama, in partnership with Tourism Cares, launched to facilitate finding locally led travel experiences nationwide. Explore Panama City’s Casco Antiguo and El Chorrillo neighborhoods with a Localinpty walking tour, then head to La Pintada to see artisans weaving traditional Panama hats, a UNESCO-recognized practice called sombrero pintao. In El Valle de Anton, named a UN Tourism Best Tourism Village in 2024, hike the Cerro Gaital Lookout Trail through a cloud forest, offering views of both the Pacific and Caribbean. This new path is part of Panama’s 1,000 km of Trails project, promoting sustainable tourism in rural communities and showcasing Panama’s biodiversity.
Panama City, a vibrant capital and gateway to diverse travel destinations in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Panama’s rich history, cultural experiences, and commitment to sustainable tourism make it an attractive travel destination in 2025. The 25th anniversary of canal sovereignty provides a unique historical backdrop for exploration.
11. Rif Mountains, Morocco
Morocco, with its snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, ancient cities, and rich culture, has long been a popular North African destination. However, the Al Haouz earthquake in September 2023 significantly impacted tourism in Marrakech and the Atlas Mountains. As Morocco rebuilds and prepares to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, it aims to double tourist arrivals in the next five years.
Bypass the crowds and explore the Rif Mountains in Morocco’s less-visited northern region. The planned 2025-2027 expansion of Morocco’s High-Speed Rail (HSR) network will include a link from Rabat to Fez, the ancient, 1,300-year-old walled Rif Mountain city. Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage medina, will also host Africa Cup of Nations 2025 games. From Fez, drive north to Moulay Idriss, an ancient hilltop village once closed to non-Muslims. Continue through olive and almond groves to Ouezzane, a Sufism center, and then to Talassemtane National Park for hiking, cedar forests, and natural swimming holes. Further north is Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl,” known for its blue buildings. Finally, explore Morocco’s northern coast, relaxing in Mediterranean fishing villages like El Jebha and Tetouan with its Spanish colonial architecture.
Chefchaouen, Morocco, the “Blue Pearl” in the Rif Mountains, a unique travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
The Rif Mountains offer an alternative Moroccan experience, rich in culture and natural beauty, away from the typical tourist routes, making it an appealing travel destination in 2025.
12. Bradford, England
Bradford, in northern England, is poised to emerge from the shadow of Leeds as the 2025 UK City of Culture. A year-long program includes the reopening of the National Science and Media Museum and celebrations of local cultural icons. Over 400 works by Bradford-born artist David Hockney will be displayed in a UNESCO World Heritage 1850s mill. New digital interpretations of the Brontë sisters’ fantasy worlds and a musical program blending electronic bassline symphonies, factory folk music, brass bands, and South Asian sounds are also planned.
This diversity reflects Bradford’s variety. Historic enclaves like Little Germany, with 19th-century neoclassical warehouses, are complemented by dramatic moors hosting an immersive open-air sound walk and sculpture trail. Bradford’s diverse residents, a quarter under 20, add to its vibrant energy.
Bradford, England, the UK City of Culture 2025, a rising cultural travel destination. (Credit: Getty Images)
Bradford’s historic streets and rugged landscapes made it Britain’s first UNESCO City of Film, a setting for hits like Peaky Blinders and classic films like The Railway Children. In 2025, an interactive cookbook project celebrating local recipes further showcases Bradford’s diverse appeal. Bradford’s designation as UK City of Culture 2025 makes it a must-visit travel destination for culture enthusiasts.
13. Jordan
Jordan, home to breathtaking desert landscapes and the ancient city of Petra, consistently evokes wonder. It is quietly establishing itself as the Middle East’s premier destination for outdoor adventure.
Despite regional instability affecting tourism, Jordan is considered relatively safe by travel advisories. In 2023, the new 120km Wadi Rum Trail opened, traversing the iconic Wadi Rum desert featured in films like Star Wars and Dune. This community tourism project promotes sustainable travel, protecting the desert ecosystem and Bedouin cultural heritage, offering a slower, more immersive desert experience than traditional 4×4 tours.
Jordan, emerging as the Middle East’s leading adventure travel destination. (Credit: Getty Images)
Jordan boasts 33 protected land and marine ecosystems. Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve, the world’s lowest nature reserve, offers canyoning adventures and Nubian ibex sightings. Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest, is home to 180 bird and 25 endangered mammal species. Aqaba Marine Reserve, added to the IUCN Green List in January 2025, features rich coral reefs and a growing diving scene. Jordan’s diverse adventure offerings, from desert hiking to marine exploration, solidify its status as a top travel destination in 2025 for adventure seekers.
14. Haa Valley, Bhutan
Bhutan, once isolated, began welcoming foreigners in 1974 and has since become a global leader in sustainability. It is the world’s first carbon-negative nation, with over 60% protected forest cover, measuring Gross National Happiness instead of GDP.
The Haa Valley, a pristine forested region bordering Tibet, has been Bhutan’s best-kept secret, culturally distinct and untouched by mass tourism. The last district to open to foreigners in 2002, it receives less than 2% of Bhutan’s international visitors despite proximity to Paro International Airport. Haa Valley is now emerging, balancing preservation with thoughtful tourism development.
Haa Valley, Bhutan, a leader in sustainable travel and a unique cultural destination. (Credit: Getty Images)
Travelers can explore Haa’s beauty via the restored Trans Bhutan Trail, the new Haa Panorama Trail, and the Joy Bay Tsho Trek. Haa’s sustainable tourism approach features locally run homestays and low-impact accommodations like Katsho Eco Camp and Sangwa Camp, offering insights into rural life and local Bon rituals. Experiences include breakfast in Bhutan’s lone strict nature reserve, a biodiversity hotspot. With Bhutan’s Sustainable Daily Fee halved through 2027, the Haa Valley is more accessible while maintaining its commitment to low-impact tourism, making it a top sustainable travel destination in 2025.
15. Hawaii, US
Over a year after devastating wildfires in Maui, Hawaii is experiencing a significant drop in visitors. As communities rebuild, they welcome travelers to return responsibly.
The Mālama Hawaii program encourages responsible tourism. Mālama, meaning “to protect” or “give back,” embodies stewardship and environmental respect. The program connects travelers with over 350 volunteer opportunities, from restoring native forests to assisting Maui families and preserving habitats. In exchange, travelers receive discounted or free stays at numerous hotels and resorts across the islands, including the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, featured in The White Lotus.
Hawaii, welcoming responsible visitors as it rebuilds, a meaningful travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Hawaii’s Mālama program offers a unique opportunity to travel with purpose, contributing to the islands’ recovery while enjoying its natural beauty. This makes Hawaii a meaningful and impactful travel destination in 2025 for travelers seeking to give back.
16. Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan has a young population, with over 60% under 30. In Tashkent, a new generation is shaping the country’s future, blending tradition with modernity. Uzbekistan is investing in tourism with new hotels, train routes, domestic flights, and cultural attractions to boost its economy, retain its youth, and attract more visitors.
Uzbekistan will host its first major international event, the Bukhara Biennial, in September 2025. Other cultural developments include an expansion of the State Museum of Arts designed by Tadao Ando and the restoration of the Palace of Prince Romanov.
Uzbekistan, blending ancient culture with modern development, a rising travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
As of May 2024, over 90 nationalities can visit Uzbekistan visa-free. The president aims to create a Global Green Tourism Startup Lab, merging green economy commitments with tourism. Border crossings with neighboring countries are easier, and the Silk Road railway tour now connects Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan’s cultural renaissance, increased accessibility, and focus on sustainable tourism make it a compelling travel destination in 2025.
17. Haida Gwaii, Canada
Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off British Columbia, offers breathtaking landscapes and a deep connection to nature, culture, and history. Isolated and ecologically rich, the islands host over 6,800 species and have sustained the Haida People for at least 15,000 years.
Haida Gwaii is a standout travel destination in 2025 due to the groundbreaking Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement. This legislation recognizes the Council of the Haida Nation as the territory’s governing body, revitalizing Haida culture and strengthening environmental stewardship.
Haida Gwaii, Canada, a leading destination for Indigenous culture and responsible tourism in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Visitors can explore abandoned Haida villages like SG̱ang Gwaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and encounter unique wildlife like the Haida Gwaii black bear and seabirds. Guests learn Haida Laws, including Gina ‘waadluxan gud ad kwaagid (“everything depends on everything else”), emphasizing shared responsibility for Earth’s care. Haida Gwaii offers a unique opportunity to experience Indigenous culture and contribute to responsible tourism, making it a top travel destination in 2025 for culturally and environmentally conscious travelers.
18. Emerald Coast, Nicaragua
Nicaragua, Central America’s largest country, home to rainforests, lakes, volcanoes, and Granada, a UNESCO-enshrined city celebrating its 500th anniversary in 2024, remains less visited. This may change with the new Carretera Costanera highway, a $400 million, 350km highway linking 53 Pacific Coast beaches.
The Costanera highway, set to complete in 2025, improves access from Managua to the Emerald Coast, known for tropical forests and world-class surf hubs like San Juan del Sur and Popoyo, popular among backpackers. More importantly, it aims to boost Nicaragua’s economy, one of the poorest in the Western Hemisphere, by growing tourism.
Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast, newly accessible and a rising surf travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Learn to surf at a local surf camp, stay in a rainforest treehouse, and visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor at the highway’s southern tip, where turtles lay eggs between September and October. Nicaragua’s improved infrastructure and diverse offerings, from surfing to wildlife encounters, make it a compelling travel destination in 2025.
19. Isle of Man
Despite being surrounded by the UK, the Isle of Man is self-governing, ruled by the world’s oldest continuous parliament, Tynwald, and committed to preserving its unique character and sustainable tourism.
Rich in ancient sites like Cashtal yn Ard and Castle Rushen, the island is forward-thinking. In 2016, it was recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere, the only self-governing territory with this designation for its environmental and cultural preservation. In 2025, explore native birds at the new Manx Birdlife Point of Ayre National Reserve, opened in July 2024. Celebrate Okell’s Brewery’s 175th anniversary with tasting tours throughout the year.
Isle of Man, a unique island destination with rich culture and history in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Explore the Isle of Man on foot, participating in walking events to discover rolling fields, misty hills, and rugged coastlines. Hike Snaefell mountain for panoramic views of the UK and Ireland. Learn Manx Gaelic and use the Manx pound to immerse yourself in this unique British Crown Dependency. The Isle of Man’s distinct culture, commitment to sustainability, and natural beauty make it a unique travel destination in 2025.
20. Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region
Pakistan, despite being populous, remains a surprising travel destination. Responsible tourism initiatives and sustainable efforts aim to attract eco-conscious visitors to its northern regions, home to five of the world’s highest peaks, including K2.
Salam Pakistan, Pakistan’s first national tourism brand launched in 2023, simplifies e-visa applications and bookings, including mountaineering and trekking visas. Pakistan offers unmatched adrenaline opportunities for mountain enthusiasts.
Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, an adventure travel destination with stunning mountain scenery in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Gilgit-Baltistan, “heaven’s gate,” is filled with lush valleys, lakes, and waterfalls. The Hunza Valley offers cherry blossoms and apricot orchards, while the Deosai plains and Shangri-La-esque lakes enchant visitors. The Khunjerab Pass on the Pakistan-China border will be open year-round starting in 2025. Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, with its breathtaking mountain scenery and improved tourism infrastructure, is a top adventure travel destination in 2025.
21. Azores
The Azores, a nine-island Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic, are known for hot springs, lakes, and lava tubes. They boast black-sand beaches and whale watching. Now, the Azores can add Europe’s largest protected marine sanctuary to their list of superlatives.
Approved in October 2024, the Azores’ Marine Protected Area spans 287,000 sq km, safeguarding deep-sea corals, sharks, and 28 whale and dolphin species. This benefits sustainable marine research and whale-watching tourism for years to come.
Azores, Portugal, a leading marine and nature travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Furnas Valley, near Ponta Delgada, features active volcanoes. Explore geothermal hot springs, botanical gardens, and Terra Nostra Park. The Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, a green retreat dating back to 1775, will offer 24-hour access to enhanced thermal pools in 2025. Sample cozido das Furnas, a stew cooked underground using volcanic heat, and purple volcanic tea at Chalet da Tia Mercês. Visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s oldest tea plantation. The Azores’ commitment to marine conservation and unique natural experiences make it a top eco-travel destination in 2025.
22. Kansas City, Missouri, US
Kansas City, Missouri, is rebranding itself as a cultural destination in 2025. Known as “Paris of the Plains,” it is promoting its arts scene and barbeque culture, launching urban revitalization plans with new museums, entertainment districts, and hotels.
The Museum of BBQ, the world’s first dedicated to smoked meat, opens at Crown Center in spring 2025. This immersive experience explores Kansas City’s barbeque culture with interactive exhibits and a BBQ goods gift shop.
Kansas City, Missouri, a rising US cultural and culinary travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
The Berkley Riverfront will see new dining, shops, and apartments. Kansas City International Airport completed renovations in 2023, improving passenger flow. 2025 will see upgrades to the KC Streetcar, with a Main Street extension opening this summer, improving access to Union Hill and the National WWI Museum and Memorial. The Rock Island Bridge reopens in spring 2025 as a new entertainment district over a river. Kansas City’s cultural rebranding and new attractions make it a noteworthy US travel destination in 2025.
23. Bolivia
Bolivia is celebrating its 200th anniversary in August 2025 with events throughout the year in its nine regional capitals. Even if you’ve visited the Uyuni salt flats and La Paz, Bolivia is worth revisiting in 2025.
Visit from February 24th to March 5th for the Oruro Carnival, a UNESCO Heritage event featuring a folk-dance parade. In Potosí, try a bicentennial singani, Bolivia’s national spirit. Potosí, a former mining town, retains colonial architecture.
Bolivia, celebrating its bicentennial in 2025, a unique South American travel destination. (Credit: Getty Images)
Bolivia has the largest proportion of Indigenous people in South America. Chuquisaca (Sucre), Bolivia’s prettiest city and the site of the declaration of independence, is home to many Quechua people. Visit the Museo de Arte Indígena to see ancient textiles. The Aymara people welcome visitors to Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca. A new community-based tourism network offers attractions like the Chalalan Ecolodge in Madidi National Park. Bolivia’s bicentennial celebrations and unique cultural and natural experiences make it a compelling travel destination in 2025.
24. Botswana
Botswana is recognized as Africa’s leader in green safari tourism, with expansive wildlife reserves and a focus on low-impact ecotourism. As Botswana transitions to a new government and recovers from the pandemic, its tourism sector is set to grow in 2025, with increased demand for sustainable and immersive travel. Botswana has granted visa-free entry to visitors from 104 countries, including the US, UK, and Canada, making it more accessible. Explore Chobe National Park, the “Elephant Capital of the World,” and the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta, a vast wetland and haven for cheetahs and black rhinos.
The Okavango Delta will see new openings, including the solar-powered Mbamba Camp in April 2025 and Monachira Camp in May 2025, offering walking safaris and canoe rides. New Air Botswana routes will connect Gaborone to Cape Town in April 2025, improving accessibility.
Botswana, Africa’s green safari leader, a top wildlife travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Botswana’s commitment to sustainable tourism, diverse wildlife, and improved accessibility make it a premier safari travel destination in 2025.
25. Oslo, Norway
Oslo, Norway, is promoting itself as a sustainable and walkable city in a recent viral ad campaign. Showcasing its walkability, dining, and access to fjords and islands, Oslo is attracting visitors who value sustainability. Known for modern architecture, waterfronts, and forests, Oslo is one of Europe’s most forested and sustainable cities.
Oslo encourages visitors to follow the Visit Oslo Responsibly guidelines and the Green Oslo Guide, focusing on planet, people, prosperity, and partnership. Hotels often feature green roofs, and businesses like the Norwegian Adventure Company offer sustainable experiences like fjord kayaking and Northern Lights tours. Dine at farm-to-table restaurants like Michelin-starred Maaemo.
Oslo, Norway, a leading sustainable city and a unique European travel destination in 2025. (Credit: Getty Images)
Oslo’s dedication to sustainability, combined with its urban and natural attractions, makes it a leading sustainable travel destination in 2025. Explore this unique city and discover its blend of urban life and natural beauty.
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