Here are the National Geographic's top travel destinations for 2025
What's the story
National Geographic has announced its eagerly anticipated "Best of the World 2025" list, highlighting exceptional travel experiences for the upcoming year. Editor-in-Chief Nathan Lump emphasized a focus on "fun" amidst global challenges, aiming to capture the joy and excitement of travel. He noted that considering the complexities of today's world, the initiative seeks to spotlight aspects that inspire delight and adventure, celebrating the thrill of exploration and discovery in unique destinations.
Festivities
Celebrations and revivals mark 2025's top destinations
Guadalajara, Mexico, earned a place on the list due to its vibrant Mariachi festival, which takes place over two weeks in August and September, featuring around 500 bands performing at Teatro Degollado and in public squares. Meanwhile, Boise, Idaho, famous for its Basque heritage, will bring back its Jaialdi festival in 2025 after a decade-long hiatus due to the pandemic. The event guarantees street parties and traditional sports competitions.
Destinations
Tranquil retreats and urban renaissance among top picks
Italy's Cenobitic monasteries, dating back to the Middle Ages, offer peaceful monastic stays that are open to all visitors, regardless of religious affiliation. Lump suggests that it provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with themselves or others "in a way that can be truly soulful and meaningful." Cork, Ireland is undergoing an urban revival with a multi-billion development plan scheduled to be completed by 2028. The city is praised for its dynamic culture and warm local population.
Culture
Artistic transformations and restorations highlighted in 2025 destinations
Bangkok gets a nod for restoration work at Wat Chaiwatthanaram, a prominent 17th-century Buddhist temple and one of the country's most important monuments. Los Angeles is recognized for its changing art scene, including the reinvention of Crenshaw Boulevard with pieces commissioned by Black artists. The Lucas Museum of Narrative Art is expected to open in 2026.
Exploration
Cultural immersion and climate education in 2025's destinations
Cultural immersion is guaranteed at Haida Gwaii in British Columbia, where you can go whale-watching and meet local artists. Meanwhile, Greenland is also becoming more accessible with new flights and an international airport, giving you an educational insight into climate change. Both destinations provide unique opportunities for exploration and education, enhancing the travel experience with rich cultural and environmental awareness.
Adventure
Traditional Japanese culture and volcano adventures in 2025
Kanazawa, Japan, is recommended as an alternative to Kyoto for those looking for traditional Japanese culture in a tranquil environment. It provides a more peaceful atmosphere, making it less overwhelming for visitors compared to more touristy areas. Antigua, Guatemala, calls out to adventurers with the chance to hike Acatenango volcano for views of the active Volcan de Fuego.
Activities
Wildlife conservation and rock-climbing among 2025 experiences
The Eastern & Oriental Express in Malaysia is returning with "Wild Malaysia" trips centered around wildlife conservation. Suru Valley, located in northern Ladakh, has become a center for India's emerging rock-climbing scene, highlighted by the annual Suru Outdoor Fest held in August and September. For more destinations including Florida, Sweden, Tunisia, and Indonesia, National Geographic's Best of the World 2025 list can be consulted.