Thirteen Burgeoning Travel Spots to Discover in 2025 - Before They Get Overrun by Tourists
Travel enthusiasts are eager to explore new horizons as we approach 2025, and a host of exciting destinations are poised to capture the imagination of globetrotters. This list, compiled based on travel trends, hotel developments, and local investment in tourism infrastructure, showcases the most prominent rising travel destinations for the coming year.
Santa Fe, New Mexico, U.S.
Known for its thriving art scene, desert beauty, and Pueblo-style architecture, Santa Fe is a must-visit destination. The upcoming Georgia O'Keeffe Museum rebuild and the immersive art experience offered by Meow Wolf add to its allure.
Saint Kitts and Nevis, Caribbean
Lush rainforests, soft sand, turquoise waters, and opportunities to explore the island's colonial past at Brimstone Hill Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, make Saint Kitts and Nevis an attractive choice for travellers.
The Missouri Ozarks, U.S.
Affordable, outdoorsy adventure awaits in the Missouri Ozarks, with opportunities for kayaking, caving, and exploring museums and preserves.
San Antonio, Texas, U.S.
San Antonio offers a blend of history, culture, food, and family fun at affordable prices. Riverboat cruises, unique dining experiences, and distillery tours are just a few of the attractions.
The Seychelles
Turquoise lagoons, coral reefs, and quiet beaches at lower prices than its more famous rival, the Maldives, make the Seychelles an appealing choice. Nature-focused experiences such as hiking in Vallée de Mai, giant tortoise sightings, and eco-conscious luxury resorts that lean into sustainability are also on offer.
Bellevue, Washington, U.S.
Gaining popularity after a successful tourism year in 2024, Bellevue offers sustainable experiences, new restaurants, a five-star hotel, and easy access to outdoor activities.
Paraguay
With a 53% increase in international arrivals, Paraguay is attracting attention for its Jesuit mission ruins and rich Indigenous Guaraní culture.
Brazil
Boasting a 48% increase in tourism, Brazil offers wildlife, cultural diversity, and urban attractions.
Chile
Natural landscapes and outdoor adventure make Chile a popular choice, with a 48% increase in visitors.
Ecuador
Destined as the 'Destination of the Year', Ecuador offers diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage to its visitors.
Curaçao
Known for its beaches and cultural festivals, Curaçao has seen a 17% growth in visitors.
El Salvador
Noted for its increasing popularity and cultural tourism, El Salvador is an up-and-coming destination.
Japan
Favoured for its safety, tech-savvy cities, traditional culture, and solo travel appeal, Japan is also highlighted for rising digital art museums and immersive experiences.
Lithuania
Growing on lists for its cultural sites and infrastructure investment, Lithuania is a destination to watch.
Qatar
Investments in tourism infrastructure and events boost Qatar's appeal.
Saudi Arabia
Experiencing rapid tourism growth with new hotel developments and cultural site openings, Saudi Arabia is a destination on the rise.
Tunisia
Recently joining the booming tourism sector, Tunisia has seen record arrivals.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Continuing to attract visitors with luxury tourism, especially in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the UAE emphasizes technology and sustainability in tourism.
Maldives
Maintaining strong appeal for luxury beach tourism and eco-resorts, the Maldives remains a top choice for 2025 visitors.
Other notable trending destinations include Italy, South Africa, Switzerland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, Korea, USA, and Bali, which emphasize immersive and authentic cultural experiences. Solo travelers particularly favour Japan, Italy, India, and Iceland for safety and cultural richness. Active travel destinations such as the Azores (Portugal) and the Dolomites (Italy) are also gaining traction due to rising demand for hiking and cycling tours.
Bodrum, Turkey, a coastal town on the Turkish Riviera, offers history, nightlife, luxury, and fewer tourists than nearby islands. Cervo, Italy, a cliffside village in the Italian Riviera, boasts Michelin-starred dining, designer boutiques, old-world charm, and affordable wine. Udaipur, India, often called the "Venice of the East", dazzles with its palaces, lakes, historic bazaars, hand-embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, and opportunities for active day trips such as hiking to Mehrangarh Fort.
As we look forward to 2025, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences and memorable journeys for the discerning traveller.
- To add artistic flair to one's travels, consider visiting Bellevue, Washington, where the city's growing popularity is matched by an influx of new restaurants, a five-star hotel, and sustainable experiences.
- Looking for a destination with a blend of history, culture, food, and family fun at affordable prices? San Antonio, Texas, United States offers all these attractions and more.
