Patricia CaleonNational Geographic just revealed its annual list of the 25 best places to travel in 2025, and this year’s edition is indeed full of surprises. From the mysterious allure of Romania to the pristine wilderness of South Africa, the list offers a diverse range of destinations for every type of traveller.
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Ocala National Forest | Image credit: Michael Warren via Canva Pro
While some destinations on the list, like Bangkok and Los Angeles, have already made a name for themselves in the tourism industry, others are lesser-known gems. For one, the Ocala National Forest in Florida offers a tranquil escape into nature, while the Cenobitic Monasteries in Italy provide a glimpse into a bygone era.
For those seeking adventure, the Transilvanica Trail in Romania is a must-visit. With the recent opening of a new airport, Transylvania has become more accessible than ever. Hikers can explore the region’s stunning landscapes and dive deep into its rich history, including the tales of the famous Dracula.
South Africa’s Kwazulu-Natal is another exciting addition to the list. This emerging safari destination offers a unique wildfire experience, with opportunities to participate in rewilding projects and wildlife monitoring.
Some other best places to travel in 2025
- Asia: Asia is indeed a melting pot of cultures; Kanazawa, Japan is one of the best places to travel in 2025, having been known for its traditional arts and culture; Raja Ampat, Indonesia boasts pristine coral reefs; and Bangkok, Thailand has an established and vibrant street food scene for foodies.
- Europe: Romania, known for its medieval charm; and the Stockholm Archipelago in Sweden, boasting idyllic islands and coastal towns.
- North America: Guadalajara, Mexico, known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene; Los Angeles, California, for its diverse culture and entertainment; and Boise, Idaho, popular for extreme outdoor adventures.
- South America: The Cerrado, Brazil, known for its unique biodeiversity; and Antigua, Guatemala, a country that boasts a plethora of colonial architecture and colourful markets.
- Africa: Senegal, known for its delicious cuisine and vibrant music scene.
- Oceania: Northland, New Zealand, widely known for its stunning beaches and Maori culture; and the Murray River in Australia is popular for its scenic beauty and wine regions.
- Middle East: Abu Dhabi, UAE is known for its stunning architecture and world-class museums.
The complete list of best places to travel in 2025
- Antigua, Guatemala
- Ocala National Forest, Florida
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Raja Ampat, Indonesia
- Guadalajara, Mexico
- Cenobitic Monasteries, Italy
- Los Angeles, California
- Greenland
- Kanazawa, Japan
- Eastern & Oriental Express, Malaysia
- Brasov, Romania
- Cerrado, Brazil
- Northland, New Zealand
- Senegal
- Haida Gwaii, British Colombia
- Barbados
- Suru Valley, India
- Boise, Idaho
- Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Murray River, Australia
- Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
- Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
- Cork, Ireland
- Outer Hebrides, Scotland
- Tunisia
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So, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time adventurer, the list of best places to travel in 2025 surely offers a wealth of inspiration for your next adventures. Which destinations are currently on your bucketlist?
Featured and Facebook featured image credit (R): Sergey Novikov via Canva Pro
