Are you dreaming of your next big adventure? The Best Places To Travel In 2025 offer a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant city life to serene natural escapes. SIXT.VN is here to help you plan the perfect getaway. Whether you are looking for cultural immersion, adventurous exploration, or relaxing beach vibes, we have curated a list of top destinations to inspire your wanderlust and provide travel tips for the best vacation spots. These include popular choices as well as unique travel experiences.
1. Big City Thrills
Craving the energy of a bustling metropolis? These cities are buzzing with new developments, cultural attractions, and exciting experiences.
1.1. Detroit, USA
Detroit is making a comeback. Mayor Mike Duggan shares, “It really is a magical time in Detroit right now, and we hope people will come to check it out for themselves.”
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From left: the lobby atrium of Detroit’s Book Tower; the exterior of the building. Courtesy of Bedrock
Why Visit Detroit?
- Adaptive Reuse Projects: New projects are revitalizing neighborhoods, bringing fresh energy to the city.
- Book Tower: This reimagined hive of activity features a Roost hotel, Kamper’s Basque tapas bar, and high-end restaurants.
- Shinola Hotel: Another game-changing project from Bedrock, reshaping Detroit’s hospitality scene.
- Hudson’s: A mixed-use development designed by Shop Architects and Hamilton Anderson Associates, housing General Motors’ global HQ and a forthcoming Edition hotel.
- Michigan Central Campus: Revived by a $1 billion investment from Ford, this innovation hub sparks creativity in the Corktown neighborhood.
1.2. Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China
Foreign travelers are returning to Hong Kong, discovering new cultural offerings and luxury hotels. Shenzhen, its neighbor, is a modern metropolis with beaches and mountain views.
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The ever-changing skyline of Shenzhen, China. luxizeng/Getty Images
Why Visit Hong Kong and Shenzhen?
- West Kowloon Cultural District: World-class museums, Art Park, Hong Kong Palace Museum, and M+ contemporary gallery.
- K11 Musea: A mixed-use development housing the Rosewood Hong Kong and the newly refurbished Regent Hong Kong.
- New Hotels: The Hopewell and Southside by Ovolo are welcoming guests on Hong Kong Island in 2025.
- High-Speed Trains: Overnight service to Shanghai and Beijing has restarted, enhancing connectivity.
- Shenzhen’s Beaches and Mountains: Explore a modern metropolis with natural beauty and vibrant growth.
1.3. Marrakesh, Morocco
With a new nonstop United Airlines flight from Newark, Marrakesh is more accessible than ever. Stefanie Schmudde from Abercrombie & Kent notes, “It’s something we’re really excited about, as it’s going to make access much, much easier.”
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From left: The roof of Rosemary, a riad in Marrakesh; one of the guest rooms at Rosemary. Marina Denisova/Courtesy of Rosemary
Why Visit Marrakesh?
- New Park Hyatt and Refurbished Four Seasons Resort: Enhanced luxury accommodations.
- The Oberoi: Opulent hotel that opened in early 2020.
- Rosemary: A chic five-room riad designed by Lrnce.
- Nobu Hotel Marrakech Riad: A private six-bedroom villa inside the medina.
- Selman Marrakech: Voted the No. 5 hotel in the world by T+L readers, soon to welcome a new high-end restaurant.
1.4. Portland, USA
Portland appeals to outdoor lovers with its parks and trails. The opening of Cascada, Portland’s first underground thermal springs spa and eco-hotel, adds to its allure.
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The new main terminal building at Portland International Airport. Ema Peter/Courtesy of Port of Portland
Why Visit Portland?
- Outdoor Activities: Over 250 public parks and a growing network of multiuse trails.
- Cascada: Portland’s first underground thermal springs spa and eco-hotel.
- Portland Art Museum Renovation: A $111 million renovation will bring an additional 100,000 square feet to the building.
- Portland International Airport Redevelopment: A $2 billion upgrade with a new, nature-inspired main terminal.
1.5. Rome, Italy
Rome will host the Jubilee in 2025, which occurs every 25 years. Andrea Grisdale, founder of IC Bellagio, advises, “Next year offers a great opportunity to consider some of the lesser-known areas of Rome and to enjoy traveling at a slower pace.”
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The Trevi Fountain. Andrea Wyner/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Rome?
- The Jubilee: A major Catholic event attracting pilgrims from around the world.
- Palazzo Talìa: An extravagant hotel with 26 rooms, a traditional Roman restaurant, and a wellness center.
- Romeo Roma: Set in a historic 16th-century palazzo, updated by Zaha Hadid Architects.
- Casa Monti: Celebrates and honors art and Rome’s bohemian lifestyle.
- New Hotel Openings: The Corinthia Rome, Mandarin Oriental, Rome, and Rosewood Rome are slated to open in 2025 and 2026.
- La Minerva: A landmark that’s now part of Orient Express, reopening in 2025 after a renovation.
- La Dolce Vita Orient Express: A new luxury train launching in the spring of 2025 with itineraries up and down the peninsula.
1.6. Sacramento, USA
Sacramento International Airport’s $1.3 billion renovation is set to be completed in 2025. Mike Testa, president and CEO of Visit Sacramento, shares, “Our transformation as a food destination and music festival mecca has flown somewhat under the radar.”
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The Crest Theatre in downtown Sacramento. Courtesy of Visit Sacramento
Why Visit Sacramento?
- Sacramento International Airport Renovation: Terminal expansions and new food options.
- Michelin-Recognized Restaurants: Home to 15 Michelin-recognized restaurants.
- Pachamama Coffee: Named Sustainability Pioneer in the 2024 Sustainable Food Awards.
- Oakland Athletics Relocation: The team will relocate to Sutter Health Park for the 2025–2027 Major League Baseball seasons.
- Food and Music Festivals: Including the Farm-to-Fork Festival and GoldenSky Country Music Fest.
- Channel 24: A new concert venue.
2. Cultural Immersion
Experience the heart of a destination through its history, art, and local traditions.
2.1. Budapest, Hungary
In 2023, the W Budapest opened in the Drechsler Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Gwen Kozlowski, of Exeter International, says, “Time and investment have turned Budapest into a very exciting city.”
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Városliget, or City Park, in Budapest. Manuel Obadia-Wills/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Budapest?
- W Budapest: Opened in the Drechsler Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- New Luxury Hotels: The Kimpton BEM Budapest and Dorothea Hotel have emerged.
- Városliget (City Park) Restoration: A $1 billion restoration including new cultural spaces like the House of Music Hungary and the Museum of Ethnography.
2.2. Bukhara, Uzbekistan
Bukhara, an ancient Silk Road city, is hosting the first-ever Bukhara Biennial in 2025. Larry Ossei-Mensah, curator and cofounder of Artnoir, notes, “The Bukhara Biennial serves as an incredible opportunity for artists and organizers to create moments where cultural legacies and contemporary ideas come into contact with each other.”
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The Kalyan Mosque in Bukhara, Uzbekistan. Francesco Lastrucci
Why Visit Bukhara?
- Bukhara Biennial: An international roster of creatives producing work within the country.
- UNESCO Recognition: The city’s crafts and folk art traditions have gained recognition on the international stage.
2.3. Charleston, USA
Charleston is T+L readers’ favorite city in the U.S. for 12 years running. Beemok Hospitality Collection will open the Holy City’s first five-star hotel on the downtown waterfront.
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The College of Charleston campus. iStockphoto/Getty Images
Why Visit Charleston?
- International African American Museum: Opened last summer.
- Food & Wine Classic in Charleston: Brings together renowned chefs from around the U.S.
- The Cooper: The Holy City’s first five-star hotel, slated to welcome guests in 2025.
- Charleston Place Renovations: Completed renovations in 2025.
- American Gardens Park: New park debuting in late 2025.
- The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection: Opened on Johns Island with 72 guest rooms and suites.
2.4. Inverness and the Flow Country, Scotland
Inverness, the capital of the Scottish Highlands, is becoming a big-time destination. Chris Taylor, the destination development director for VisitScotland, states, “Inverness is the perfect base from which to explore the stunning Highland scenery, iconic castles, majestic mountains, and unique wildlife.”
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St. Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral, along the River Ness in Inverness. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Inverness and the Flow Country?
- Flow Country: Added to UNESCO’s World Heritage list, home to an abundance of wildlife and rolling hills.
- Inverness Castle Experience: A major restoration transforming the city’s prison and courts into a venue for history and cuisine.
- Cabot Highlands: Offers play on the iconic Castle Stuart Golf Links, with a second 18-hole course coming soon.
2.5. Lisbon and the Algarve, Portugal
Lisbon is known for its yellow trams and historic neighborhoods. Sheree M. Mitchell, a T+L A-List advisor, describes, “It is unlike any other European capital, with an unbelievable amount of soul.”
Amber Asher, CEO of Standard International, says of Lisbon, “A lot of cool things are happening, and it’s still somewhat affordable,” and that Lisbon was just named Europe’s best culinary city.
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The Jerónimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lisbon. Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Lisbon and the Algarve?
- New Luxury Stays: Six Senses Lisbon, Nobu Hotel Lisbon, The Standard, Lisbon, Kimpton Lisbon, and several Hilton properties are all opening their doors in 2025.
- Europe’s Best Culinary City: Offers a unique culinary experience.
- Algarve Region: Home to Europe’s most beautiful beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming towns.
- New United Route: Seasonal nonstop route from Newark Liberty International Airport to Faro in the pipeline for 2025.
- Luxury Cruise Line Ponant: Debuts a 14-day journey in the fall of 2025 with a stop in Lagos.
- Hidden Gem: Eastern Algarve Coastline: Boasts a specific mixture of Mediterranean-Atlantic culture with a bit of a Moroccan flavor.
2.6. Luxor, Egypt
Luxor, known for its ancient temples, is becoming more accessible. T+L vice president and editor in chief Jacqui Gifford was wowed by a recent trip to the country that included a visit to Luxor.
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The Karnak temple complex in Luxor, Egypt. Anton Aleksenko/Getty Images
Why Visit Luxor?
- New Nonstop EasyJet Flight: From London, improving access to the city.
- Ancient Temples: Part of a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979.
- Vibey Hotels: Al Moudira and the super-stylish Beit Sabée.
2.7. Thailand
Thailand is T+L’s 2025 Destination of the Year. Grant Ekelund, a Thailand specialist at InsideAsia Tours, recommends, “Kanchanaburi, a town in west Thailand. It has everything you want: beautiful scenery, cool places to stay, fascinating history.”
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From left: A temple in Chiang Mai; a golden Buddha in Bangkok. From left: Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure; Christopher Wise/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Thailand?
- New Hotels in Bangkok: The Aman Nai Lert Bangkok and The Ritz-Carlton will open later this year.
- The White Lotus Season 3: Set in the country and slated for early 2025.
- Kanchanaburi: Offers beautiful scenery, cool places to stay, and fascinating history.
3. Adventurous Travelers
For those seeking thrilling and unique experiences, these destinations offer plenty of adventure.
3.1. The Caucasus
The comparatively small countries of Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia will get fresh attention.
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The Gergeti Trinity church and Mount Kazbek in Georgia. Stefan Cristian Cioata/Getty Images
Why Visit The Caucasus?
- New Itinerary: Atlas Obscura and Intrepid have teamed up to create a two-week swing through cities including Baku, Tbilisi, and Yerevan.
- Cultural Experiences: Visits to wineries, bakeries, and crafts ateliers, as well as historical sites, mosques, and churches.
3.2. Greenland
Greenland has seen a huge uptick in tourism. Stefanie Schmudde, a senior vice president at Abercrombie & Kent, confirms, “Now is the time to visit.”
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Kayaking in Greenland, with the HX cruise ship Fram in the distance. Mads Pihl/Courtesy of Visit Greenland
Why Visit Greenland?
- Greenland’s First International Airport: Slated to open in late 2024 in Nuuk.
- United Flights: Will become the first U.S. airline to operate flights to the country in 2025.
- New Tours: Wildlife watching, trips to the interior, and learning about the island’s Indigenous culture.
- Cruise Operators: HX, Viking, Ponant, and Silversea are adding new itineraries and experiences.
3.3. Kumaon, India
This remote division in the state of Uttarakhand is an under-the-radar destination. Jamshyd Sethna, founder of Shakti, says, “After much searching by our team, we found a heavenly plot of land on a mountaintop with the most stunning views of the Great Himalayas and the Ramganga River valley.”
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Hikers at Khaliya Top, in India’s Kumaon Division. iStockphoto/Getty Images
Why Visit Kumaon?
- Shakti Prana: The new property will be the latest in a string of mountain lodges from the brand.
- Mountain Views: Stunning views of the Great Himalayas and the Ramganga River valley.
3.4. Madagascar
Madagascar is on the cusp of transformation. Samantha Gordon, Red Savannah’s Africa specialist, says, “Travelers want to see things their friends have not — to be among the first and to feel they are on a true adventure.”
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Masoala Forest Lodge. Louise Jasper/Courtesy of Masoala Forest Lodge
Why Visit Madagascar?
- Fresh Itineraries: Abercrombie & Kent and Red Savannah are adding itineraries that focus on the country’s ecological riches.
- New Emirates Service: Links Dubai and Madagascar’s capital city of Antananarivo.
- New Hospitality Offerings: Namoroka Tsingy Camp and Voaara are new accommodations.
- Masoala Forest Lodge: Near Antongil Bay, a World Heritage Site.
3.5. Nicaragua
Nicaragua has long felt like a well-kept secret among surfers and nature lovers. Luke Maish, CEO of Rancho Santana, says, “The Costanera Highway is one of the most significant projects in Central America in recent decades.”
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Mombacho, a towering volcano, as seen from the waters of Lake Nicaragua. James Jackman/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Nicaragua?
- Costanera Highway: A new 75-mile highway connecting towns and beach communities along the Pacific coast.
- Increased Flights: United has doubled the number of flights from its Houston hub to Managua.
- Resorts: Rancho Santana and Mukul offer access to surf breaks, wellness classes, and rainforest hikes.
- Jicaro Island Lodge: Nine tree houses situated in Lake Nicaragua.
3.6. The Philippines
The Philippines is deserving of a fresh look from travelers. Tesa Totengco, a member of T+L’s Travel Advisory Board, shares, “This archipelago of 7,641 islands has a lot to offer if one is willing to go deeper.”
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Nay Palad Hideaway. Courtesy of Nay Palad Getaway
Why Visit The Philippines?
- New Philippine Airlines Flight: A nonstop flight from Seattle.
- New Hotels: A dozen hotels have opened in Manila, including the Admiral Hotel.
- Luxury Resorts: Palawan will welcome several newcomers, including El Nido.
- Nay Palad Hideaway: A stunning rebuild on the island of Siargao.
3.7. Universal Orlando, USA
Universal Orlando Resort’s massive expansion will add Universal Epic Universe. Karen Irwin, president and COO of Universal Orlando Resort, shares, “Universal Epic Universe marks a huge transformational moment for Universal Orlando Resort, and it will change everything about our destination.”
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Rip Saw Falls, a flume ride at Universal Orlando. Elizabeth Rhodes/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Universal Orlando?
- Universal Epic Universe: A state-of-the-art park with five new lands.
- New Hotels: Universal Helios Grand Hotel, Universal Stella Nova Resort, and Universal Terra Luna Resort will join the resort’s portfolio.
4. Food and Drinks
Explore these destinations through their culinary scenes and unique beverages.
4.1. Colorado’s Western Slope, USA
This stretch of Colorado has a growing reputation for Rieslings and other cool-climate grapes. Ray Isle, executive wine editor of Food & Wine, says, “There’s definitely something there.”
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A vineyard in Palisade, in the Grand Valley AVA of Colorado. Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Colorado’s Western Slope?
- Emerging Wine Scene: Centered around the town of Grand Junction, with upstarts like Carlson Vineyards and Sauvage Spectrum.
- Grand Valley AVA: Enjoys a hedge against a warming world, situated above 4,000 feet.
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking, mountain biking, and paddling in the Rockies.
4.2. Crete, Greece
Crete is poised for its moment in the sun.
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Lunch at Kafeneio Fix, in the town of Chania, Crete. Thomas Gravanis/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit Crete?
- New InterContinental Crete: Opened in the summer of 2024 in Agios Nikolaos.
- JW Marriott: Will unveil its first Greece property in 2025.
- Rosewood Blue Palace: Set to make its debut on Crete’s northern shore in 2026.
- Cultural Riches: The Palace of Knossos and the Minoan Palace at Phaistos.
- Dramatic Topography: Mountains, gorges, and waterfalls.
4.3. Osaka, Japan
Osaka is fast becoming a must-visit for anyone heading to Japan.
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Bota Bar, at the Four Seasons Hotel Osaka. Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
Why Visit Osaka?
- Expo 2025: Running April through October, with the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”.
- New Four Seasons: Opened in 2024 with 175 rooms and suites.
- Patina Hotels & Resorts: Opening its first Japan property in the spring.
- Waldorf Astoria: The city’s first Waldorf Astoria should open with 252 rooms and three restaurants.
- Rihga Royal Hotel Osaka: Slated to wrap a major renovation by April 2025 and become the first Vignette Collection property in the city.
- Air Canada Flights: Added several seasonal nonstop flights to the newly renovated Kansai International Airport.
4.4. Priorat, Spain
Wine-world insiders have been buzzing about Priorat. Marco Palermo, of Authentic Explorations, notes, “It is one of Spain’s hidden gems, but 2025 is the perfect year to discover it before it truly explodes on the travel scene.”
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Perinet, a winery in Priorat. Alba Rodriguez/Courtesy of Perinet Winery
Why Visit Priorat?
- World-Class Reds: Wineries including Perinet and Clos de l’Obac.
- Sustainable Winemaking Practices: Clos Mogador and Cellers de Scala Dei.
- Michelin Recognition: Restaurants such as Brots and Quatre Molins.
- Gran Hotel Mas d’en Bruno: Offers a new Vinum tasting menu.
4.5. San Antonio, USA
There’s perhaps no better place to dive in than San Antonio. Kevin Fink, CEO of Pullman Market, says, “Our market highlights the difference and value of truly fresh and truly local.”
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San Antonio’s Pullman Market. Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Why Visit San Antonio?
- James Beard Awards: Nine of its restaurants, bars, and breweries have been in contention.
- Mexico Ceaty: Chef Jason Dady will be opening in early 2025, highlighting Mexican cuisine.
- Pullman Market: A 40,0
