Creating a definitive list of the “50 Best Places to Visit in 2025” is a challenging task, as “best” is subjective and depends on individual interests, budget, and travel style. However, based on recent publications from reputable sources like Lonely Planet, National Geographic, and TIME, as well as general travel trends, here is a comprehensive list of destinations that are highly recommended for the upcoming year.

This list is categorized to help you find the perfect trip, whether you’re seeking a natural adventure, a cultural deep-dive, or an up-and-coming destination.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures

• The Swiss Alps, Switzerland: A timeless classic, offering stunning views, world-class hiking, and skiing.
• The Faroe Islands: A remote archipelago with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and a rugged, untouched feel.
• Patagonia, South America: Spanning Chile and Argentina, this region is known for its glaciers and iconic peaks like Torres del Paine.
• Iceland: The “Land of Fire and Ice” continues to be a top pick for its otherworldly landscapes.
• Flow Country, Scotland: A vast, newly designated UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique peatlands.
• Raja Ampat, Indonesia: A diver’s paradise with incredible marine biodiversity and pristine coral reefs.
• Banff National Park, Canada: Home to iconic turquoise lakes and majestic mountain scenery.
• Ocala National Forest, Florida, USA: A green oasis with springs and wildlife, offering a different kind of Florida experience.
• Cerrado, Brazil: A vast savanna that is gaining recognition for its unique wildlife and eco-tourism opportunities.
• Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden: A network of 30,000 islands perfect for peaceful exploration.

Culturally Rich & Historic Cities

• Kyoto, Japan: A must-visit for its traditional temples, geisha districts, and beautiful gardens.
• Rome, Italy: A classic choice with ancient ruins, magnificent art, and incredible food.
• Lisbon, Portugal: Known for its vibrant neighborhoods, historic trams, and stunning viewpoints.
• Marrakech, Morocco: A city of bustling souks, beautiful riads, and rich history.
• Genoa, Italy: A less-traveled Italian city with a stunning seaside and a vibrant culinary scene.
• Toulouse, France: Often called “Paris in miniature,” this city is a hub for art, food, and culture.
• Bern, Switzerland: The Swiss capital’s medieval Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Puducherry, India: A union territory with a unique blend of French colonial and Tamil culture.
• Abu Dhabi, UAE: Known for its focus on cultural attractions, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
• Bernin City, Nigeria: A city with a rich history and a growing cultural scene.

Emerging & Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

• Osaka, Japan: A top trending city for its food scene, nightlife, and as the host of Expo 2025.
• Greenland: With a new international airport, this remote destination is becoming more accessible for travelers.
• Sintra, Portugal: A magical town near Lisbon with fairytale palaces and lush landscapes.
• Nicaragua: A beautiful country with volcanoes, lakes, and charming colonial cities.
• Georgia (country): A destination for its ancient monasteries, stunning Caucasus mountains, and vibrant capital.
• Armenia: A hidden gem with a rich history, ancient monasteries, and beautiful landscapes.
• Lithuania: A Baltic country known for its historic capital, Vilnius, and beautiful nature.
• Antigua, Guatemala: A colonial city with a stunning backdrop of active volcanoes.
• The Cook Islands: Celebrating its 60th anniversary of self-rule, making it a great time to visit.
• Senegal: Gaining recognition for its vibrant culture and delicious West African cuisine.

Iconic Landmarks & Unique Experiences

• Machu Picchu, Peru: The “Lost City of the Incas” is a historic marvel with a breathtaking mountain setting.
• Jerónimos Monastery & Belém Tower, Portugal: Iconic landmarks of Portugal’s Age of Discoveries in Lisbon’s Belém district.
• Petra, Jordan: The “Rose City” carved into red rock cliffs, a true wonder of the ancient world.
• Angkor Wat, Cambodia: A massive temple complex that is a testament to ancient Khmer civilization.
• The Great Wall of China: One of the most famous man-made structures in the world, offering incredible views.
• National Tile Museum, Lisbon, Portugal: A unique museum dedicated to the art of Portuguese tiles.
• The Jordan Trail: A long-distance hiking trail that takes you through the country’s diverse landscapes.
• Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: A unique destination for wildlife lovers, with species found nowhere else on Earth.

This is a selection of some of the most highly-regarded places for 2025. The full list of 50 would be even more diverse and would include a mix of classic destinations, emerging spots, and hidden gems.