As the year is nearing its end, the 2 giants of travel National Geographic and Lonely Planet have released their 2025 best-of-the-best destinations. Interesting, but no single place made to both lists and all locations are scattered throughout the globe. Let’s have a closer look at the best places to travel in 2025, and see if we can group them up by location, so they are easier to incorporate into a travel itinerary.
US and Canada
East Coast and Southeast
Lonely Planet places the ‘sultry vibe’ of the US Lowcountry on the top of their ‘Regions’ list this year, naming specifically Charleston and Savannah as the hot spots. The highlight of the trip is International African American Museum which opened its doors in Charleston on June 27, 2023, letting the visitors get a better sense of the area’s uneasy past.
To round up a cultural trip to Charleston, LP suggests doing ‘gallery hopping’ in the French Quarter and catching the performance at Dock Street Theatre, which is believed to be the oldest in America.
Following the theme of an uneasy past, LP recommends visiting the McLeod Plantation on James Island. McLeod Plantation dates back to the 19th century and is an important 37-acre Gullah/Geechee heritage site. In 2015 it opened its doors to the public and is available to both guided and self-guided tours.
Outdoor and wildlife lovers will appreciate Florida’s Ocala National Forest – one of Florida’s last wild places. It was picked by NatGeo for 2025 because of the improvements done by the National Forest Foundation – new fishing piers and improved trails.
Ocala is the southernmost national forest in the continental US. It occupies a territory of 387 thousand acres which is over 150,000 hectares. It hosts 600 lakes and natural springs to explore via kayaking and hiking. Wildlife-watching opportunities include manatees and black bears.
West Coast and Pacific Northwest
Like the LP, NatGeo highlights the exploration of African American culture, this time in L.A. When completed, Destination Crenshaw will transform a 1.3-mile stretch of Crenshaw Boulevard into a ‘thriving commercial corridor with landscaped community spaces and over 100 commissioned works by Black artists’. However, no specific dates are mentioned.
Another opening is soon to be made by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The completion of the glass-walled David Geffen Galleries is nearing.
The art scene in L.A. will expand even further in 2026 with the opening of the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Exposition Park. This museum will feature a unique collection put together by Star Wars creator George Lucas.
Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge
Lonely Planet picked Columbia River Gorge for being one of the best windsurfing destinations in the world. But the area, which is only 40 minutes away from Portland, has a lot more to offer. Seasonless hiking trails around Multnomah Falls, farm stands, wineries, and breweries.
Only 40 minutes from Portland, Mt Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge represent the best of the Pacific Northwest (PNW to locals).
Midwest and Mountain West
Idaho was picked by NatGeo for the immersion into the culture of the Basque people.
Tip
Basque Country or País Vasco currently doesn’t exist as a separate state. But it used to occupy the northern territory of modern Spain with the capital of Bilbao
From July 29 to August 3, 2025, the Basque Block of Boise, Idaho will be hosting Jaialdi – the world’s largest Basque culture festival.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania earned its spot on Lonely Planet’s list for 2025 by offering a mix of affordability and creativity. Butler Street in Lawrenceville stands out for its independent coffee shops, small-batch breweries, and locally-owned boutiques, creating a neighborhood vibe that feels authentic and creative.
You can ride century-old wooden coasters at Kennywood, take in the stunning river views from the Duquesne Incline, or explore Pittsburgh’s growing arts and dining scene.
British Columbia: Haida Gwaii
Haida Gwaii, an archipelago of 150 islands off the coast of British Columbia, earned its place on National Geographic’s 2025 list for one significant reason: the Ocean House.
Once a floating eco-lodge, it has found a permanent home on the northern end of Graham Island. This new location makes Haida Gwaii’s cultural and natural offerings even more accessible.
Visitors staying at the lodge can explore nearby Naikoon Provincial Park, known for its untouched beaches and lush forests. Guided whale-watching tours offer the chance to spot humpbacks and dolphins in the surrounding waters.
In Old Massett, guests can meet Haida artists who create and maintain the towering totem poles that tell stories of lineage, history, and spirituality. These poles aren’t just artworks; they are active preservations of the Haida culture.
Alberta: Edmonton
Edmonton earned its place on Lonely Planet’s 2025 list for its Edmonton International Fringe Festival, the largest in North America. For 11 days each summer (the 2025 exact dates are TBA), parks, streets, and small theaters fill with live performances, making it a standout cultural event that draws visitors from all over.
Beyond the festival, the Ice District—the second-largest sports and entertainment complex on the continent—adds to Edmonton’s appeal with its modern downtown attractions. In Old Strathcona, Whyte Ave offers boutique shopping, local eats, and a bohemian atmosphere, perfect for exploring between shows.
For a deeper dive into Alberta’s past, the Royal Alberta Museum showcases Indigenous history in its Human History Hall and features Western Canada’s largest collection of artifacts.
South America and the Caribbean
Central America and the Caribbean
Antigua, Guatemala
Antigua, Guatemala, earned its spot on National Geographic’s list for 2025 for offering travelers a chance to witness one of nature’s most dramatic displays. Volcán de Fuego is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. The best way to experience is to trek up Acatenango Volcano, which stands at 13,045 feet and provides a vantage point for viewing Fuego’s eruptions.
The hike is a challenging journey through coffee plantations and lush cloud forests. Between the hikes, Antigua itself is worth exploring. A UNESCO World Heritage site, its cobblestoned streets, and plazas reflect a colonial charm that pairs perfectly with its adventurous surroundings, making it a destination where natural and cultural wonders meet.
Chiriquí, Panama
The next pick of LP is Chiriquí, Panama. Located at the country’s western edge, it offers a mix of activities set against a backdrop of notable biodiversity. A highlight is Volcán Barú National Park, where reaching the summit rewards hikers with the unique sight of both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans—a view that few places in the world can offer.
The riverside town of Boquete is a starting point for exploring Chiriquí. From here, visitors can venture out for activities like rafting the white waters of the Chiriquí Viejo River, known for its rapids. However, it’s not perfectly safe for tourists: probably, everyone heard of the mysterious disappearance of 2 young Dutch tourists on the Pianista trail not long ago.
For something more tranquil, Finca Drácula is for plant enthusiasts, featuring over 2,000 orchid species in one of the world’s largest botanical collections.
Trinidad & Tobago
Lonely Planet highlights Trinidad and Tobago for its one-of-a-kind Carnival and the range of outdoor and cultural activities that make it more than just a beach destination.
Spanning months, the celebration culminates in parades on March 3 and 4, 2025, showcasing elaborate costumes and a packed schedule of events, including steelpan competitions, stick-fighting battles, and calypso performances.
On Tobago, head to Pigeon Point Beach for kayaking and snorkeling, LP suggests trying the famous curried crab and dumplings. In Trinidad, the Asa Wright Nature Centre is great for birdwatching and turtle spotting along its lush trails.
Another cultural landmark is the Temple in the Sea, a serene Hindu site, built on a causeway in the Gulf of Paria.
Barbados
Another pick by NatGeo is Barbados, this time not for crystal-clear waters or culinary experiences, but for historical exploration. Barbados is set to reframe its place in the history of the transatlantic slave trade with the opening of the Barbados Heritage District in 2025.
Designed by Ghanaian-British architect David Adjaye, who also created the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., this ambitious project will bring a deeper understanding of the island’s historical role as a key entry point for millions of enslaved Africans.
The district includes a global research institute offering access to the Barbados National Archives and a striking memorial of 570 timber poles, marking the burial site of many enslaved individuals. This memorial aims to honor their lives and acknowledge the island’s role in this history.
South America
Cerrado, Brazil
The Cerrado savanna is often overshadowed by the Amazon Rainforest, but it’s no less impressive. This vast biome is home to incredible wildlife, like the elusive maned wolf, along with 850 bird species and 12,000 plants. Yet, it’s vanishing quickly—over 40,000 square miles have been lost in the last decade alone to agriculture and cattle ranching. That’s why National Geographic included it on their 2025 list, encouraging travelers to see it before it’s gone.
NatGeo suggests considering Pousada Trijunção, a lodge in the heart of the savanna. It partners with the conservation group Onçafari, giving guests a chance to track maned wolves with expert guides. Staying here also helps fund local efforts to protect the area, making your visit part of the solution.
Curitiba, Brazil
LP picked Curitiba for the coming year’s top list because of its balance between urban innovation and sustainable living. Known for its forward-thinking urban planning, Curitiba puts the focus on creating spaces that benefit both residents and visitors.
A must-see is the Museu Oscar Niemeyer, showcasing art, sculpture, and an exhibit about the renowned Brazilian architect. Being open for 20 years, its modernist design still feels ahead of its time. Nature lovers will appreciate Jardim Botânico for its serene paths, sculptures, and graceful greenhouse.
The highlight of the destination is Serra Verde Express, a scenic train ride winding through mountains and rainforests to the charming town of Morretes — Brazil’s most famous railway.
Paraguay
Lonely Planet highlights Paraguay for 2025 as a quieter alternative to South America’s busier tourist spots. Travelers can explore the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical wetland, by boat on the Siete Cabrillas floating hotel, or trek into the Chaco Forest, where jaguars and giant anteaters roam.
In Asunción, the capital’s mix of historic neighborhoods and eclectic architecture offers insight into Paraguay’s rich history. Sports enthusiasts can dive into the nation’s passion for football at the Superclásico, an intense rivalry match between Olimpia and Cerro Porteño that electrifies the stadium.
Asia
South and Southeast Asia
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Lonely Planet’s 2025 list features Chiang Mai, emphasizing its rich culinary scene — a highlight for food enthusiasts. The Chiang Mai Food Festival, scheduled for January 24-26, 2025, will showcase local specialties like khao soi (curry noodle soup) and sai ua (northern Thai sausage).
On Friday mornings, the Kad Baan Hor Market offers unique dishes such as neua nam kang (thinly sliced beef), khao ram feun (rice flour jelly), and khao puk nga (sticky rice with sesame). For an immersive experience, the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre hosts traditional khantoke dinners, featuring a variety of northern Thai dishes accompanied by cultural performances.
Bangkok, Thailand
National Geographic picks Bangkok for the 2025 destination list because of the rebirth of Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a 17th-century temple just outside the city. This Khmer-style site, featuring a large central prang surrounded by smaller pagodas, represents Mount Sumeru in Buddhist mythology.
Damaged by severe flooding in 2011 Wat Chaiwatthanaram has undergone extensive restoration, including 3D laser scanning and a new flood wall. Today, it serves as both a protected site and a place to learn about Thailand’s rich heritage.
Laos
Laos earned its spot on Lonely Planet’s 2025 list thanks to its newly launched high-speed rail, connecting the country’s tranquil landscapes to China’s Yunnan Province. This long-awaited railway offers a more efficient way to explore Laos’ lesser-seen highlights.
Along the railway … Vang Vieng, a riverside town surrounded by limestone karsts, offers tubing, ziplining, rock climbing, and trekking. Overall the place is safe for tourist-friendly, except for the recent tragedy related to methanol poisoning. It’s highly recommended to avoid any homebrew liquors.
In the capital, Vientiane, visitors can admire landmarks like Pha That Luang, a striking gold stupa, and Patuxai, a Laotian take on the Arc de Triomphe. The rail line also brings easier access to Luang Prabang, to visit Kuang Si Waterfall, explore the Old Quarter, and experience the sunrise alms-giving ceremony with local monks.
Raja Ampat, Indonesia
Raja Ampat is featured on National Geographic’s 2025 list for its extraordinary marine ecosystem. This remote Indonesian archipelago is a haven for biodiversity, with 500 types of coral and more than a thousand reef fish species. Marine life includes manta rays, dugongs, and the recovering zebra sharks, thanks to ongoing conservation efforts.
Accessible only by sea, Raja Ampat offers unique opportunities to explore its waters. In 2025, Abercrombie & Kent and Aqua Expeditions will launch new yacht trips, providing a closer look at the archipelago’s vibrant ecosystem. For a traditional experience, Rascal Voyages charters phinisi ships, Indonesia’s classic wooden sailing vessels. National Geographic Expeditions also includes Raja Ampat in its 20-day “Exploring Indonesia by Sea” cruise.
Puducherry (Pondicherry), India
Puducherry, or Pondicherry as it was once known, earned its spot on the LP list for its blend of French colonial charm and Tamil heritage. Located on the Bay of Bengal, the city oozes the vibe of the French Riviera through its Gallic architecture.
Puducherry is known for its Kolam (ritual drawing) traditions. Each morning, intricate rice flour patterns appear at the thresholds of homes, symbolizing prosperity and welcoming guests.
Another highlight is the Puducherry Museum, which has the same cultural blend as the city’s architecture — artifacts from the Chola and Vijayanagar empires are sitting along the elegant French antiques.
Suru Valley, India
Suru Valley was picked by National Geographic as an emerging climbing hub. Tucked away in the northern Ladakh region, with its snowcapped peaks and granite boulders, the valley is attracting climbers from around the world.
A special event is the Suru Outdoor Fest, held annually in August and September. The festival offers an opportunity to tackle over 500 boulder problems during the day, while evenings bring live music under the stars.
The Terai, Nepal
Often overshadowed by Nepal’s Himalayan trails and Kathmandu, this year the Terai region made its way into Lonely Planet’s list. Stretching across Nepal’s southern lowlands, it offers special wildlife encounters and a one-of-a kind spiritual landmark.
At Chitwan National Park, conservation efforts have brought back the one-horned rhino population from near extinction. Exploring the park on a canoe or boat safari along the Rapti River also gives visitors the chance to spot gharial crocodiles and a variety of wildlife.
In Lumbini, the Maya Devi temple marks the birthplace of the Buddha. The temple and surrounding monastic zones offer a peaceful atmosphere for learning about Buddhism’s origins.
East and Central Asia
Kanazawa, Japan
Kanazawa earns its spot as a National Geographic recommendation for 2025 by offering an authentic and less crowded alternative to Kyoto.
This well-preserved castle city boasts distinct districts that bring the Edo period to life. The Higashi Chaya geisha quarter, with its wooden teahouses, and the samurai district of Nagamachi offer a glimpse into the lives of Japan’s elite from centuries past.
A stroll through Kenroku-en Garden, celebrated as one of Japan’s most exquisite gardens, offers a tranquil experience with seasonal blossoms and historic water features. Kanazawa’s reputation as Japan’s gold leaf capital is another highlight. Producing 99 percent of the country’s entsuke gold leaf.
Osaka, Japan
In 2025, Osaka will host the World Expo for the second time, cementing its reputation as a hub of innovation and creativity. This international event will showcase cutting-edge designs and ideas, making it an exciting year to visit this dynamic Japanese city.
For great sights, head to Dōtonbori, where the glow of neon lights and giant signs create an unforgettable atmosphere. History buffs can explore Osaka Castle, a reconstructed in the 1930s fortress housing an excellent museum on the city’s past.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is still an emerging destination, gaining more and more popularity every year, no wonder, it was picked by Lonely Planet for 2025. It is defined by its vast steppe landscapes and Soviet heritage.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find much to explore in Sairam-Ugam National Park, where uncrowded trails wind through dramatic peaks, valleys, and forests. In Altyn-Emel National Park, the remarkable singing dunes produce an eerie, organ-like hum when the wind sweeps through, creating a natural symphony unique to this region.
Europe
Northern and Western Europe
Lithuania
Lithuania earned its place on the list for sustainability. Its capital (Vilnius) was named the “European Green Capital of 2025”. The title is awarded by the European Commission “for outstanding efforts towards creating a sustainable city”.
The highlight of Vilnius, where green spaces make up 61% of the city, is Sapieha Palace, which was recently restored to its glory.
Though Lithuania’s appeal extends far beyond the capital. The Hill of Crosses, near Šiauliai, is a moving pilgrimage site with over 100,000 crosses symbolizing resilience and remembrance. For those seeking solitude in nature, Aukštaitija National Park offers ancient oak forests, tranquil lakes, and opportunities for boating in an untouched landscape.
Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
The Stockholm Archipelago earns its spot on the NatGeo list thanks to the newly opened 168-mile Stockholm Archipelago Trail. This hiking route connects 21 islands out of the 30,000 in this coastal expanse.
Island-hopping remains a key experience here, allowing visitors to move between serene, uninhabited islets and lively villages. Late summer to early fall, known locally as the “magic season,” is an ideal time to visit, with calm weather and tranquil surroundings.
Outer Hebrides, Scotland
The Outer Hebrides is the new hot set-jetting destination. The upcoming Scots Gaelic BBC drama An t-Eilean (The Island) is set to showcase the landscapes and Celtic heritage of these remote Scottish islands. This spotlight follows the success of The Banshees of Inisherin, which drew attention to Ireland’s western isles.
The Hebridean Way offers a nearly 200-mile route across 10 islands, combining walking and cycling trails that reveal silvery beaches, traditional whisky distilleries, and the machair grasslands dotted with wildflowers. History enthusiasts will be drawn to the Calanais Standing Stones, a 5,000-year-old Neolithic site shrouded in mystery.
The best time to visit is in July when the Hebridean Celtic Festival lights up Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis. This annual event celebrates Gaelic language and music, immersing visitors in the cultural heartbeat of the Outer Hebrides.
Cork, Ireland
Cork earns its place on the list for its dynamic transformation as part of Ireland’s $128 billion Project Ireland initiative. This ambitious plan is revitalizing the city through a major redevelopment of the port and docklands and updates to key cultural spaces like the Crawford Art Gallery and the Cork Event Centre.
The highlight of 2025 will be the return of Sounds from a Safe Harbour, a biennial festival of music, dance, and conversation. Set to take place in September, this festival was cofounded by Cork native and Oppenheimer actor Cillian Murphy, adding star power to its already diverse lineup of artists.
East Anglia, UK
East Anglia is an example of traditional England, far from the country’s more touristy landmarks. Spanning Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex, and Cambridgeshire, the region is known for its villages with 16th-century half-timbered houses and wool towns. Its coastline features a number of bird reserves like Minsmere, where spring visitors can hear the distinctive call of the bitter.
Inland, Cambridge draws academics and visitors alike with its legendary libraries, college greens, and museums like the Fitzwilliam.
Greenland
Greenland is making its mark on NatGeo’s list thanks to improved accessibility. The opening of a new international airport in Nuuk, coupled with expanded flight routes, is making this remote Arctic destination easier to reach than ever. Starting in June 2025, travelers can fly directly from New York to Nuuk on United Airlines, or connect via Canadian North’s summer flights from Iqaluit to Nuuk, with links to Ottawa and Montreal.
Once in Greenland, the adventures are as striking as the landscape itself. Witness the colossal icebergs of Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or delve into the rich Indigenous Inuit culture in the village of Kulusuk.
Valais, Switzerland
The Valais region is home to iconic destinations like Verbier, Zermatt, and the Matterhorn. This summer, the UCI World Mountain Bike Championships will bring international attention to the area, with events spread across seven mountain resorts and an opening ceremony in the historic town of Sion, 55 kilometers (34 miles) from Verbier.
Beyond the biking championships, visitors can ride 3 cable cars from Zermatt to Klein Matterhorn, where the views of 14 glaciers and over 30 peaks exceeding 4000 meters (13,123 feet) await. Verbier’s network of hiking trails reveals hidden gems like the Pierre Avoi summit and the centuries-old bisses, traditional irrigation channels that still flow through the lush pastures. The Aletsch Glacier is the largest glacier in the Alps, guided hike or ski tour usually start in Fiesch.
Toulouse, France
Lonely Planet’s 2025 pick for Toulouse is driven by the upcoming reopening of the Musée des Augustins. After years of renovation, this 14th-century convent-turned-art-museum, a central figure in the city’s art scene since 1795, is set to welcome visitors again.
Toulouse is often called the “Pink City” due to its terracotta buildings. Beyond the museum, Toulouse offers an array of cultural and architectural highlights. The Basilique St-Sernin, one of the largest Romanesque churches in Europe, and the Capitole, a neoclassical landmark housing the city hall and opera house, are must-sees. Music lovers can appreciate jazz at Le Taquin or classical performances at Théâtre du Capitole.
Bavaria, Germany
Bavaria is definitely not a hidden gem. Primarily known for Munich’s Oktoberfest, which kicks off in September and remains the largest beer festival globally. Further south, Neuschwanstein Castle stands as one of Bavaria’s most visited sites, showcasing King Ludwig II’s grand vision amidst the Alpine backdrop.
Road trippers can explore the Romantic Road, Germany’s most famous scenic route, winding through charming villages and medieval towns, like Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
Central and Eastern Europe
Slovakia
Lonely Planet includes Slovakia in its 2025 recommendations for its outdoor activities and commitment to ecotourism. The country’s ongoing restoration projects in Bratislava and its natural offerings across the Carpathian Mountains make it a versatile destination.
In Bratislava, the Slovak National Radio Building and Museum of the Slovak National Uprising showcase bold Brutalist architecture. The High Tatras offer opportunities for snowshoeing and mountain trails, while Slovenský Raj National Park challenges visitors with ladders and paths winding above cascading waterfalls. The Krásnohorská Cave features Europe’s largest stalagmite, while the Dobšinská Ice Cave — year-round ice formations.
Brasov, Romania
National Geographic highlights Brașov for 2025, spotlighting its position as a gateway to Transylvania and the recently completed Via Transilvanica hiking trail. With Romania’s first new airport in half a century now open, the region is more accessible than ever.
The Via Transilvanica, an 870-mile trail stretching from the Ukrainian border to the Danube, offers hikers a chance to immerse themselves in the diverse landscapes and historical landmarks of Transylvania. The Terra Saxonum section leads through Saxon villages and the UNESCO-listed town of Sighişoara, famous as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the historical inspiration for Dracula. Meanwhile, the Terra Dacica portion weaves through vineyards and ancient Dacian fortresses.
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo was voted the Readers’ Choice Winner for 2025 by National Geographic. The Miljacka River flows through the city under bridges like the Latin Bridge, linked to the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which sparkled World War I. The Skenderija Bridge is said to be built with the same materials as the Eiffel Tower.
The Tunnel of Salvation offers insight into the city’s survival during the Bosnian War. Wine enthusiasts can try regional varieties like Žilavka, Blatina, and Vranac. Outdoor activities include river rafting, skiing, and hiking trails leading to nearby waterfalls.
Armenia
Armenia was chosen as an emerging destination for Lonely Planet’s 2025 list. For many decades it has been under the radar, but like Kazakhstan it’s gaining more and more popularity.
This South Caucasus country offers a chance to explore UNESCO-listed monasteries, hike the recently introduced Armenian National Trail, and sample traditional dishes alongside local wines from the Areni region, one of the oldest winemaking areas in the world.
The Armenian National Trail connects visitors to the country’s rugged beauty, passing through historic sites like Geghard Monastery, carved into a mountainside, and the 2,000-year-old Garni Temple. The Dilijan area is a highlight in spring, with its wildflower-filled landscapes leading to the restored Haghartsin Monastery.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Located in the South-East of Bulgaria, this town has been traditionally recognized as a winter ski resort. However, in recent years, it started evolving into a year-round destination, being an affordable destination for digital nomads.
From December to April the major activity is skiing. In the warmer months, the surrounding Pirin Mountains provide ample opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.
For digital nomads, Bansko provides several coworking spaces equipped with reliable internet and a supportive community. Events like the annual Bansko Nomad Fest, held in late June, attract remote workers from around the world, fostering networking and collaboration.
Southern Europe
Cenobitic Monasteries, Italy
Italy is home to over 200 Cenobitic monasteries, dating back to the Middle Ages. These sanctuaries once provided rest for weary travelers, a tradition that continues today, welcoming visitors regardless of their religious background.
La Verna, perched on a cliff two hours east of Florence, is closely tied to St. Francis of Assisi. Near Siena, the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore offers Renaissance artwork and wine crafted by the monks themselves.
Genoa, Italy
Genoa, often overlooked in favor of Italy’s more famous cities, is gaining attention as a must-visit destination, particularly with the development of the Terzo Valico high-speed rail project. Scheduled for completion by 2026, this connection will integrate Genoa into the Rhine-Alpine corridor, significantly enhancing access to the city.
A walk through Genoa’s caruggi, the medieval alleyways, gives an idea of how this city once was a major maritime hub in Mediterranean trade and exploration. These narrow streets lead to the Palazzi dei Rolli, UNESCO-listed Renaissance and Baroque palaces that once hosted visiting dignitaries.
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Lonely Planet highlights Palma de Mallorca for 2025, citing the debut of its green-focused waterfront promenade. This long-awaited project aims to address over-tourism by creating sustainable spaces for both locals and visitors, reinforcing Palma’s position as a year-round destination.
Visitors can explore the Fundació Miró Mallorca, which houses Joan Miró’s studios—Son Boter and Taller Sert — or stay in beautifully restored historic buildings like Palma Riad, Portella Palma, or Can Cera.
Giresun and Ordu, Turkey
While Türkiye’s Mediterranean coast and the famed Lycian Way often draw the hiking crowds, the Black Sea region offers a quieter, off-the-beaten-path escape. Giresun and Ordu, two charming coastal provinces, invite exploration with their lush mountain landscapes, welcoming hospitality, and unspoiled trekking routes.
Hikers can wander through verdant trails leading to hidden gems like the turquoise-hued Mavi Göl (Blue Lake), which comes alive during summer. These provinces are also Türkiye’s hazelnut heartland —Giresun is celebrated for its exceptional fındık and hazelnut paste.
Oceania
Vanuatu
Lonely Planet includes Vanuatu in its 2025 recommendations for its preserved natural landscapes and the chance to connect with the culture of Ni-Vanuatu, also known as Ni-Van. With fewer than 45,000 tourists annually, this archipelago offers an opportunity to explore the untouched islands.
A highlight is Mount Yasur on Tanna Island, where visitors can stand on the volcano’s rim and watch glowing lava spur into the night sky. Vanuatu also invites travelers to sample kava, the islands’ traditional drink, or scuba dive its coral reefs and wrecks. For a more relaxing escape, head to Efate Island’s Blue Lagoon or Mele Cascades.
Fiji
Fiji earns its place on Lonely Planet’s 2025 list for its efforts to involve visitors in conservation and sustainability. This 330-island nation offers stunning reefs and tropical landscapes and invites travelers to play an active role in protecting them.
The 460 marine protected areas make Fiji a prime spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Conservation programs, such as coral and mangrove planting, give visitors the chance to contribute directly to preserving these fragile ecosystems. The highlands and waterfalls provide opportunities to explore Fiji’s lush interiors, away from its coastal resorts.
Northland, New Zealand
While many travelers head south from Auckland, this under-the-radar region offers a quieter, more nature-focused escape. The Poor Knights marine reserve is a haven for divers, boasting warm waters and a vibrant ecosystem. Here, species like the spotted black groper, mosaic moray, and Lord Howe coralfish thrive, many of which are found nowhere else in the country.
On land, the Kiwi Coast initiative is making strides in protecting New Zealand’s iconic but threatened kiwi bird. This coalition of over 250 community-led conservation projects has created habitats where these elusive birds are flourishing, offering visitors rare opportunities to see them in their natural environment.
Murray River, Australia
The Murray River, Australia’s lifeline through its agrarian heartland, makes National Geographic’s 2025 list thanks to the launch of the PS Australian Star. This new paddle steamer, debuting in June 2025, offers travelers a chance to experience the river’s historic charm through leisurely multinight cruises departing from Echuca.
Stretching 1,500 miles, the Murray is the third-longest navigable river in the world, trailing only the Amazon and the Nile. The cruises include riverside barbecues, wine tastings, and opportunities to spot native wildlife while exploring historic sites such as Perricoota Station.
Launceston and Tamar Valley, Australia
Lonely Planet highlights Launceston and the Tamar Valley in its 2025 recommendations for their easy access to Tasmania’s oldest wine region and a mix of nature and wildlife experiences. Just 12 kilometers (7 miles) from the city center, the Tamar Valley Wine Route connects over 30 vineyards, making Launceston an excellent base for exploring Tasmania’s cool-climate wines.
A visit to Cataract Gorge, located just minutes from Launceston, offers scenic walking trails, chairlift rides with views of peacocks and wallabies, and the option to dine at the Gorge Restaurant. For wildlife enthusiasts, Beauty Point’s Platypus House provides close encounters with platypuses and feeding echidnas.
Africa
Tunisia
Tunisia earns its spot on National Geographic’s 2025 list for its remarkably intact Roman ruins, offering a window into ancient life in North Africa. The highlight is a recent discovery of a 2,000-year-old shipwreck off the coast.
The centerpiece is Dougga, a two-hour drive from Tunis, often hailed as the best-preserved Roman town in the region. Visitors can explore Roman baths, temples dedicated to Juno and Saturn, a 3,500-seat theater, and the imposing Capitol building, complete with its colonnaded portico. Latin inscriptions etched into stone provide a direct connection to the distant past.
Senegal
Senegal earns its spot on National Geographic’s 2025 list as the backdrop for the upcoming series No Taste Like Home, featuring Issa Rae and culinary star Antoni Porowski. The series highlights the nation’s rich food culture, rooted in Wolof and French influences.
Dakar offers visitors a hands-on taste of Senegal’s celebrated dishes, including ceebu jën, the national dish of fish, rice, and vegetables, and soupe kanja, a flavorful gumbo. Cooking classes or street food tours with Relish Africa reveal the communal spirit of teranga, where meals are shared as an expression of hospitality and togetherness.
KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
KwaZulu-Natal got its spot in National Geographic’s 2025 list as a rising alternative to the popular Kruger National Park. It is a chance to encounter the Big Five in a less crowded setting. At the heart of this region is the Babanango Game Reserve. This nearly 50,000-acre conservation project has successfully reintroduced elephants, lions, and black rhinos, along with rare antelope species like oribi and klipspringer.
The reserve invites visitors to join game drives and participate in wildlife monitoring. All that turns the “regular” safari experience into an educational trip, allowing one to gain knowledge about nature conservation in action.
Middle East
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi secures a place on National Geographic’s 2025 list with the completion of its Saadiyat Cultural District on Saadiyat Island.
Saadiyat Island is already home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi. The district is set to open two major additions in 2025: the Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. The first one is dedicated to the legacy of the UAE’s founding father. The latter one is a long-anticipated architectural masterpiece by Frank Gehry inspired by traditional Emirati wind towers.
Jordan Trail
The Middle East is rarely considered a hiking destination. However, it does have its iconic routes. One of the most epic is the Jordan Trail. Marking the 10th anniversary, it spans 676 kilometers (420 miles) from Umm Qais in the north to Aqaba on the Red Sea. The journey takes hikers through key points like Little Petra, a Nabataean settlement around 8km (5 miles) north of its famous counterpart, Petra.
Comparing the choices of National Geographic and Lonely Planet
So after having studied the lengthy list of 55 places, as stated above, no city or region makes an appearance in both lists. But we can distinguish certain trends:
Sustainability and Ecotourism
Vilnius, Lithuania (LP), was named the “European Green Capital of 2025;” it exemplifies urban green initiatives. Northland, New Zealand (NatGeo) showcased its Kiwi conservation efforts and marine reserves, offering a quieter alternative to the South Island. KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (NatGeo) is a new safari destination with rewilding projects.
Outdoor Adventure and Active Tourism
Off-the-beaten-path destinations: Suru Valley, India (NatGeo) promotes rock climbing and Slovakia (LP) features hiking, snowshoeing, and cave exploration in the Carpathian Mountains.
Resurgence of Accessible Remote Destinations
The development of railways in Laos and Italy. The expansion of river cruising in Australia. The new international airport in Greenland.
