Top Travel Destinations for 2025: My Must-Visit Picks

Lisa Arbon on 14 March 2025
As a travel agent, I spend my days helping people plan their dream vacations, and let me tell you — 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for travel! Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, relaxation, or something totally unique, these destinations are topping my recommendation list for the year ahead!

1. Japan – Beyond the Tourist Hotspots

Japan is always a favorite among my clients, but in 2025, I’m encouraging travelers to step beyond Tokyo and Kyoto. Kanazawa offers stunning samurai history and gardens without the crowds, and Yakushima Island feels like stepping into a fairytale with its lush forests and waterfalls. Plus, new high-speed train routes make exploring even easier!

Top Tip: Book your flights and accommodations early—Japan is more popular than ever, and spots fill up fast!

2. Greenland – For the Ultimate Bucket List Trip

For my adventure-seeking clients, Greenland is my top pick. Between massive glaciers, stunning fjords, and the Northern Lights, it’s one of the most untouched places on Earth. But with climate change affecting the Arctic, now is the time to see it before it changes forever.

Top Tip: Consider an expedition cruise for a truly immersive experience—you’ll get to see remote spots that aren’t accessible by land.

3. Egypt – A Classic Destination with Big New Attractions

Egypt is back in the spotlight, and 2025 is the perfect time to visit with the long-awaited Grand Egyptian Museum finally opening! If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing the pyramids or cruising the Nile, this is the year to do it.

Top Tip: Pair your visit with a private guided tour to avoid the crowds and get insider knowledge about the ancient sites.

4. Portugal – The Best of Europe Without the Crowds

I’ve been sending more and more clients to Portugal, and I don’t see that slowing down in 2025. The Azores are an adventure lover’s paradise with volcanic landscapes and stunning coastlines, while Alentejo is perfect for foodies and wine lovers looking for a quiet escape.

Top Tip: Portugal is a great alternative to Italy or Spain if you’re looking for something a little less touristy but just as beautiful.

5. Colombia – A South American Gem That’s Gaining Popularity

Colombia has completely transformed in recent years, and my clients who visit absolutely love it. Cartagena is full of charm with its colorful streets and Caribbean beaches, while Medellín is a vibrant city with a growing cultural scene. And don’t even get me started on the Rainbow River (Caño Cristales)—it’s a natural wonder!

Top Tip: Colombia is best explored with a custom itinerary—there’s so much variety, from beaches to mountains to coffee regions.

6. Bhutan – The Perfect Place to Disconnect

For those looking for a peaceful, meaningful travel experience, Bhutan is unbeatable. It’s the world’s first carbon-negative country, and with the reopening of the Trans-Bhutan Trail, it’s a dream destination for hikers and cultural explorers.

Top Tip: Bhutan requires visitors to pay a daily sustainable development fee, but trust me—it’s worth it for the untouched beauty and authentic experience.

7. Albania – Europe’s Best-Kept Secret

Albania is the perfect destination for travellers who want Mediterranean beauty without the hefty price tag or crowds. The Albanian Riviera is full of stunning beaches, and the Accursed Mountains (yes, that’s their real name!) offer some of the best hiking in Europe.

Top Tip: Get there before the secret’s out—Albania is already becoming a trending destination!

8. Kenya – Safari & Beach in One Trip

Kenya continues to be a top pick for wildlife lovers, and 2025 will see even more eco-friendly lodges opening up. Seeing the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Kenya’s beaches (like Diani Beach) are just as stunning as its safaris.

Top Tip: Consider a combination trip—safari in Kenya, then a few days on the beach in Zanzibar!

9. Turkey – So Much More Than Just Istanbul

Istanbul is always a favorite, but in 2025, I’m recommending travelers explore beyond the city. The Turkish Riviera (think Bodrum and Kas) is a dreamy coastal escape, and the ancient ruins of Göbekli Tepe are a must-see for history lovers.

Top Tip: Turkey is incredibly affordable compared to other European destinations, making it a great value-for-money option.

10. Canada – A Dream for Outdoor Lovers

Canada is a fantastic pick for travellers who love nature. The Yukon offers jaw-dropping Northern Lights displays, while Newfoundland and Labrador are perfect for spotting icebergs and rugged coastlines. And for city lovers, Montréal and Vancouver have some of the best food scenes in North America.

Top Tip: Canada’s national parks are incredible, but they can get busy—plan your visit for shoulder season (spring or autumn) for fewer crowds.

Ready to Plan Your 2025 Adventure?

As a travel agent, my job is to take the stress out of trip planning and help you create unforgettable experiences. Whether you want a luxury getaway, a cultural deep dive, or an off-the-grid adventure, I’d love to help you find the perfect destination.

Where are you dreaming of travelling in 2025? Let’s start planning!