The Rough Guide to the 25 best places to travel in 2025

Curated with input from Rough Guides writers and editors who’ve done deep dives into stacks of extraordinary destinations in 2024, here we present the Rough Guide to the 25 best places to travel in 2025. Covering some of the world’s best places to travel for adventure, relaxation, food, family fun, and fabulous new experiences, read on for inspiration that might just jumpstart your upcoming journeys.

Best places to travel for adventure

From picturesque hikes between romantic European villages, to heady high-octane experiences on majestic mountain peaks, read on to find your new favorite destinations for adventure. 

Cinque Terre, Italy

Easing our way into our first theme with a destination that offers adventure of the most scenic variety, Italy’s Cinque Terre encompasses five ravishingly romantic hilltop villages. Namely, Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the region is also a national park and a protected marine area, with its five towns woven together by trails that traverse Liguria’s captivating coastline.

This being Italy, hiking between these beauties of the Italian Riviera is perfect for folks who want their walks on the wild side to be rewarded with fine food and wine (be sure to try Vernaccia di Corniglia, which gets a mention in Boccaccio's Decameron), and even finer views.  

As a result, Cinque Terre is a hands-down highlight of many Italy itineraries.

Editor’s tip: "Don't miss walking the aptly named, recently reopened Via dell’Amore (Path of Love) between Riomaggiore and Manarola. To enjoy its revamped romance, you’ll need to pre-book your time slot".

Senegal, West Africa

From its Atlantic coastline, idyllic islands and southerly tropical forests, to its wildlife-rich savannas and grasslands, and the orange-hued dunes of the Lompoul Desert, Senegal’s diverse landscapes serve as the spectacular stage for all manner of adventure activities. 

By which we mean surfing, sandboarding, safariing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking, diving and whale watching. It’s fair to say Senegal is endlessly surprising.

If you’ve come for the wildlife, note that the UNESCO-designated Niokolo-Koba National Park — one of the largest in West Africa — is home to lions, leopards, hippos, buffalos, antelopes, and hundreds of rare birds.

On the subject of birds, almost 700 species of bird can be seen in Senegal, and its Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary (another UNESCO-protected site) is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the world.

Editor’s tips: “Another West African favorite of mine is the Bijagos Islands in Guinea Bissau. They’re relatively unknown — even getting there is an adventure — and have gorgeous beaches”.

Caldera de Taburiente National Park, La Palma

Presiding over the Canary Island of La Palma — the entirety of which has UNESCO biosphere reserve status — Caldera de Taburiente National Park reveals exactly why the island is also known as La Isla Bonita (The Beautiful Island) and La Isla Verde (The Green Island).

At the heart of the park is an 8km-wide crater, the towering peak of Roque de los Muchachos, and the spindle-shaped Idafe Rock. 

Once sacred to the Benahoaritas, the first inhabitants of La Palma, Idafe Rock— and Caldera de Taburiente as a whole — exudes otherworldly magic to this day, not least when trekking its trails takes you above a sea of clouds, leaving you feeling like you’re on top of the world. 

Editor’s tip: "For the ultimate adventure — and to have your soul stirred by the stars — book to camp in Caldera de Taburiente National Park".

California’s National Parks, USA

Boasting more national parks than any other state — there are nine of them — California is the kind of destination that has adventurers coming back year after year.

Across remarkably diverse landscapes — majestic mountains, granite cliffs, alpine lakes, ancient forests, volcanic spires, vast deserts, geothermal hotspots, plus expansive salt flats, sand dunes, sea caves and caverns — there’s a Californian National Park for every type of adventurer.

Not sure where to start? Our editor highlighted Yosemite and Sequoia, both of which play host to epic canyoneering, climbing, rafting and trekking experiences that showcase exactly why California’s National Parks are one of the best places to add to your USA itinerary.

Editor’s tips: “Camping in California is a low-cost option that allows you to experience the nature and scenery of this part of the US for around $35 dollars a night. While the America the Beautiful Annual Pass costs $80 dollars, this will save you money if you plan to visit several US National Parks”.

Pu Luong, Vietnam

From its lush jungles and towering karst mountains, to terraced rice fields and traditional villages, every awe-inspiring inch of northern Vietnam’s Pù Luông Nature Reserve offers amazing opportunities for any Vietnam itinerary.

And in happy news for travelers who like to dig deeper into the destinations they visit, many of said opportunities also invite cultural immersion, with several top treks leading to remote villages. 

Check out Don, Kho Mường and Hieu village, where you can experience homestays in traditional stilt houses around your hiking, biking, kayaking and caving adventures.

Though some treks are of the more challenging variety (hello, Pù Luông Peak!), many of the most rewarding — and beautiful — outdoor experiences in this region can be enjoyed by the less experienced.

Take your pick from traversing enchanting bamboo groves and limestone valleys en route to Kho Mường, or gently rafting the Cham River while watching out for wildlife.

Best places to travel for slow travel relaxation

If you’re looking to take a 2025 vacation that makes it easy to slow down and simply be, keep reading to discover destinations that will have you doing exactly that.

Scottish Islands, UK

Sparsely populated, with landscapes of wild, windswept heather-covered moors, pristine beaches, crystal-clear lochs, and small villages, it’s nigh impossible to not slow down on the Scottish Islands.

Each island offers a completely different vibe, so they make a great addition to your Scotland itinerary.

For example, with its UNESCO World Heritage Neolithic sites and easy access to fun island-hopping boat trips, Orkney is well-suited to families who are looking to take time out from the chaos of everyday life.

The same is true of the Isle of Skye, where the Fairy Glen enchants visitors of all ages. 

Editor's tip: "If you're into walks on the wild side (and whisky), take a trip to the Isle of Islay. We spent a week here walking, bird-watching and enjoying a few distillery tours — it wasn't nearly long enough, to be honest".

Nicolosi, Sicily

Gateway to Mount Etna's majesty, the Sicilian town of Nicolosi feels a far cry from the crowds of the island’s heavily-touristed resort areas. 

Think charming Baroque churches, impossibly pretty piazzas, and traditional eateries serving authentic local food that couldn’t be fresher.

As such, Nicolosi is a gorgeous place in which to savor life at a slower pace, as well as an excellent starting point for your Italy itinerary in Sicily.

Picture yourself exploring Mount Etna’s slopes by bike, or cycling to an outlying village for an extra-long lunch. Or how about strolling rolling forests, with natural hot springs on hand to rest up in?

Discover more: read up on other destinations that deliver divine slow travel experiences.

Speightstown, Barbados

It might seem pretty obvious why Barbados, with its bounty of beautiful beaches, comes recommended as one of the most beautiful places to go for a relaxing vacation.

But hold that thought — there’s a whole lot more to this Caribbean island than its enchanting coastline, especially if you’re looking to unwind i.e., you’ll want to steer clear of its busy resort areas and instead look to embrace a more laidback Bajan vibe.

Offering the best of both worlds — fewer tourists and access to beaches, bars, restaurants and guesthouses — Speightstown on the northwest coast is one such place.

One of the oldest towns on Barbados, it brims with colonial-era architecture, including Arlington House Museum, which showcases island history in a splendidly-restored 18th-century building. 

Editor’s tip: “If you’re into surfing, head to the island’s Atlantic east coast. Bathsheba is a great base”.

Skagen, Denmark 

Located on Denmark’s northernmost tip, Skagen’s sublime light and serenity has long-attracted artists and writers to its dune-backed shores and sandbars.

In fact, this irresistibly charming town spawned an entire movement back in the late-19th-century, when a group of artists settled here and become the Skagen Painters.

Today, that same alluringly laidback ambiance remains, for Skagen has retained the feel of a timeless fishing village, replete with brightly-painted cottages and white picket fences.

Surrounded by seemingly infinite expanses of sandy beaches, shifting sand dunes, and coastal walking paths, Skagen is a place to stroll or cycle at leisure, with glorious sunrises you’ll want to rise early for, and slow-burn sunsets that’ll keep you entranced long after the last rays have faded. 

A must-see natural attraction around these parts is the point at which two seas meet. Stand on the tip of the sandbar in Grenen — Denmark’s most northerly point — to see the waves of the Skagerrak and Kattegat seas collide.

Editor’s tip: “For the ultimate slow-travel joy, take a train from Aarhus to end-of-the-line Skagen — one of the best travel experiences of my life! While I didn’t want the scenic ride to end, Skagen stole my heart pretty much the moment I arrived”.

Villefranche-sur-mer, French Riviera

Serving an alluring melange of Medieval history, Mediterranean lifestyle, peaceful beaches and pretty promenade walks, la vie is certainly belle in Villefranche-sur-mer.

Exquisitely sited on France’s Cote d'Azur, this seaside town is no stranger to welcoming fancy yachts to its handsome natural harbour and makes a great addition to any France itinerary.

At the same time, it's retained more of a fishing village vibe than its louder, glitzier neighbours. Namely, Nice and Monaco, which are but a short bus or train ride away if you fancy some city action.

Villefranche-sur-mer’s charms derive from the joys of stumbling upon boutiques and cafés in the medieval old town, dining on the seafront, stretching out on secluded beaches, and strolling the Sentier du Littoral coastal path.

Editor’s tips: “Flights and accommodation are relatively cheap here in comparison with other European cities. You could also travel via Eurostar to make it an eco-friendlier trip".

Best places to travel for food and culture

Whether you’re in the market for tucking into street food in lively local markets, or fancy fine dining in some of the world’s best restaurants, read on for plenty of mouth-watering food for thought. 

Batumi, Georgia 

While it’s the city’s Black Coast that draws most folks to Batumi, first impressions of Georgia’s second largest city are typically formed by its eclectic mix of architecture.

It’s a place that sees grand gilded Gothic cathedrals sit shoulder to shoulder with contemporary takes on classical styles, and the fanciest McDonald’s you’re ever likely to see.

That said, a double cheeseburger and coke aren't likely to cut it after you’ve tasted local food and wine. Be sure to try khachapuri — a traditional dish of boat-shaped bread stuffed with creamy melted cheese, and topped with an egg and lashings of butter.

When it comes to wine, Georgia’s traditional vinification practices have been recognized on UNESCO’s list of Humanity’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.

So, while Batumi’s Black Sea Coast certainly has its allures, you’ll most likely come away with a new-found appreciation of Georgian food and wine. Indulging in it is unquestionably one of the best things to do in Batumi.

Editor’s tip: "Batumi also is a brilliant base for outdoor adventures. 10km from the centre, the Botanic Gardens provide an excellent introduction to Georgia’s greener side. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can zipline lush forests in Mtirala National Park, just 30km from town".

Bangkok, Thailand

In the words of our editor who couldn’t stop raving about Bangkok’s foodie credentials: “from street food to fine dining, everything is possible when it comes to eating in Bangkok”.

Oft hailed the street food capital of the world, Thailand’s capital is crammed with vendors dishing up everything from pad thai and som tum (papaya salad), to crunchy fried scorpions.

Top spots include Yaowarat (Chinatown), Sukhumvit Soi 38 and Khao San Road. One of our editors also shared the joy of “getting mango sticky rice at JJ's market".

While you won’t want to miss tucking into local favorites like tom yum goong (spicy shrimp soup) and moo ping (grilled pork skewers), Bangkok also offers plenty of opportunities to taste dishes from all over Thailand, whether you hit the street markets, or decide to splash out in one of the Michelin-starred restaurants.

But it’s not all about the food. Bangkok is an excellent starting point for your Thailand itinerary, packed with cultural landmarks like the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn), and Wat Pho (Temple of the Reclining Buddha).

At the same time, Bangkok’s traditional floating markets combine culture and cuisine at one satisfying swoop.

Bordeaux, France

Esteemed as the wine capital of the world, beautiful Bordeaux embodies the essence of French art de vivre, with the magnificently restored quays along the Garonne River also inviting visitors to unleash their inner flâneur.

Presenting a richness of grand neoclassical buildings, elegant 18th-century townhouses and stately squares, the city center has UNESCO World Heritage Site Status, with many of said buildings serving as cultural venues, among them the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux and the Musée des Beaux-Arts — one of the oldest museums in France.

Meanwhile, visiting the city’s markets, not least Marché des Capucins — AKA the “Belly of Bordeaux” — is a charming way to discover Bordeaux’s glorious high-end gastronomy before throwing yourself into its renowned “bistronomy” culture.

Melding the methods and finesse of gourmet cooking with a laidback bistro atmosphere, the bistronomy movement makes fine dining joyously accessible — all the better for gobbling down local delights like magret de canard (duck breast) and Bordelaise (steak with red wine sauce).

Being home to some of the most prestigious wine regions in the world, we recommend touring of some of the best Bordeaux vineyards during your stay. 

All that considered, it’s easy to see why Bordeaux is one of the best places to travel for food and culture.

Editor's tip: "If you love wine and lively local events, visit in late June for the annual Bordeaux Wine Festival".

Hvar, Croatia

At once lively and laidback, the Croatian island of Hvar serves a moreish mix of Mediterranean-influenced food and history, with its winemaking tradition stretching back some 2400 years.

When it comes to Hvar’s food offerings, think super-fresh seafood, aromatic herbs, and juicy sun-ripened vegetables, best enjoyed in a traditional tavern fronted by the shimmering Adriatic Sea, or else in a farm-to-table restaurant surrounded by rolling olive groves.

Hvar also hits all the right notes for history buffs. So much so, travelers on Croatian island-hopping trips find it all but impossible to leave. It's true to say, the island is often a highlight of Croatia itineraries.

For example, overlooked by the 16th-century Fortica fortress, Hvar Town blends medieval, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, while quieter Stari Grad — one of the oldest towns in Europe — is known for its art galleries and the charming Tvrdalj Castle.

If that wasn’t enough, Hvar’s Stari Grad Plain has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Site status — its olive groves and lavender fields were created by the ancient Greeks.

Editor’s tips: "For the best street food, Lola Bar has a great atmosphere and delicious small plates, while aROMA Gelato Boutique is the best ice cream shop. Right by the harbor, it has a great selection of flavours. For dinner, head to Fig Hvar for delicious food, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options in a charming romantic setting”.

Lima, Peru

Showcasing everything from pre-Columbian history in the Museo Larco, to street art in its bohemian Barranca district, Lima is nothing but exhilaratingly diverse.

Then there’s its UNESCO-designated historic center. Boasting picturesque plazas aplenty, the district’s Baroque monastery is a bedazzlement of catacombs, libraries and mosaics.

In line with its rich cultural heritage, Lima’s thriving food scene offers a taste of the Andes, Amazon and Pacific Coast, along with influences from Spain, Africa, and beyond.

Especially notable are Nikkei — a flavorsome fusion of Japanese and Peruvian food — and Chifa, which combines Chinese culinary techniques with Peruvian ingredients.

To experience why Lima has been called the culinary capital South America, plan a Peru itinerary that includes food-themed tours and visits to local markets to try zesty ceviche, choripan (grilled sausage sandwich) and picarones (sweet potato donuts). 

Street food aside, Lima is also home to some of the world’s best restaurants that make it very clear why the city is one our best places to travel for food.

Editor’s tip: "Take a cookery class to learn how to make some signature Peruvian recipes — after doing that, I came home with a whole new approach to cooking!" 

Best places to travel for family vacations

From outdoor adventuring in the French Alps and Maine, to beautiful beach breaks, our suggested family-friendly vacation destinations cover a range of trip types, and they've all been tried, tested — and loved — by members of our team.

Bar Harbor, Maine 

Located on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s scenic Atlantic coast, being the gateway to Acadia National Park, it’ll come as no surprise that beautiful Bar Harbor is a brilliant base for outdoorsy families who want to walk the park’s family-friendly trails.

At the same time, this scenic spot is one of the best places in Maine to watch whales, with seal and puffin cruises also sure to delight kids of all ages. 

To keep things fresh for the easily bored — or when little legs start to tire — take a carriage tour of the downtown area before heading to an ice cream parlor.

Editor’s tip: “If your kids want a break from natural attractions, but still need to let off steam, visit Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf. It's close to town and has plenty to keep kids entertained for the entire day".

Emilia Romagna, Italy

“Beautiful beaches and mountains without the crowds” — this is how one of our editors summarised the joys of Emilia Romagna. 

As such, from the cities of Bologna and Parma, to the beaches and family-friendly resorts of the Riviera Romagnola, this ravishing region of Italy is well-suited to families who want a trip that combines coastal fun with culture (think kid-pleasing castles, carnivals and festivals) and outdoor adventuring. 

On the subject of the latter, head to the Apennines to walk trails through fairy-tale-esque trails that lead to lakes and mountain villages. 

Add to that opportunities to enjoy some of the finest food and wine in Italy, and Emilia Romagna amounts to an all-round winner.

Editor’s tip: “I especially recommend Bologna as a beautiful historical place for young and old, and any of the beaches between Rimini and Ravenna to relax”.

Gozo, Malta

Boasting epic UNESCO-designated archaeological sites, and safe uncrowded beaches that serve as the stunning launchpad for fun boat trips, Gozo is a great destination for family vacations that can be as laidback or action-packed as you want. 

In general, Gozo’s vibe is more peaceful than its big sister, Malta. Think tiny villages, quiet roads, scenic coastal paths and unspoiled beaches. 

Though small, Gozo is big on historic attractions that might just have little ones living their best explorer’s life. For example, Gozo's Ggantija Temples are among the world’s oldest megalithic temples.

Beyond exploring historic sites and having fun on the beach — take your pick from safe swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding — Gozo is a gorgeous place to enjoy time together in the great outdoors, with many of its walking trails suitable for all ages.

Editor’s tip: "be sure to take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon on the nearby island of Comino. Kids will love exploring the coves and learning to snorkel in the clear, calm waters".

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, French Alps

Located in the French Alps, the mountain resort of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a fabulous year-round destination for families who want a getaway in the great outdoors. 

Come winter, plenty of slopes are suitable for children and first-timers, with snow gardens that make mastering basic skiing skills feel like (ahem) child’s play, and opportunities to snowboard, sled and skate.

During the summer months, Chamonix is the scenic setting for alpine walks and picnics, and for riding the Aiguille du Midi cable car, which serves spectacular views of Mont Blanc from a height of 3842 meters. 

Suspended over the valley, the "Step into the Void” glass box at the summit will thrill young adventurers.

The same is true of taking the Montenvers train to the Mer de Glace glacier, where you’ll get to explore an ice cave and visit a fascinating glaciology museum. 

If that’s not enough to keep your kids happy, note that Parc de Merlet wildlife park is located just outside town, while the Parc de Loisirs amusement park is on hand to entertain younger kids.

Discover more: read up on additional great places to go with kids.

Varadero, Cuba

While the exhilarating island of Cuba offers unforgettable experiences for all types of traveler, Varadero offers the best all-round experience for families.

Blessed with a bounty of beautiful beaches, Varadero's turquoise waters are super-calm and super-clear – ideal for boat trips, and for kids to try their hand at snorkeling, with any teens in tow likely to love kayaking and parasailing.

Varadero is also known for its family-friendly resorts — think kids' clubs, pools with water slides, family suites and a whole lot of live entertainment.

Not that we’re suggesting you stay in your resort for your entire Cuban vacation itinerary. You wouldn’t want to miss walking on the wilder side in national parks and nature reserves, where secret caves and tropical birds await. 

Editor’s tip: "Try to take a day trip to Havana from Varadero — it's just a couple of hours away. Kids will love touring the city in a cool vintage car".

Best places to travel for new experiences in 2025

One of the most rewarding aspects of travel is doing new things in new places — the following destinations are likely to deliver just that in 2025.

Dominica, Lesser Antilles — be wowed by the world’s 2nd largest boiling lake from the world’s longest cable car

No one could accuse Dominica ­— the nurturing Nature Island of the Caribbean — of resting on its lush laurels. 

The island is already home to the Caribbean’s longest hiking trail, the Caribbean’s only sea-kayak trail, and the world’s first marine protected area for sperm whales. Come late-2025, the island will also serve as the spectacular stage for world’s longest cable car of its kind.

Delivering mind-blowing views of the lush Roseau Valley and UNESCO-designated Morne Trois Pitons National Park — and providing access to the world’s second largest boiling lake without having to undertake a challenging 6-8-hour hike — this innovative endeavour will enable the less-mobile to witness a natural wonder.

Put simply, thanks to its new cable car, Dominica — one of our best islands in the world — is about to get even better, which is really saying something.

Editor’s tips: "Be sure to visit Dominica’s Kalinago Barana Autê for insights into the history and heritage of the island’s indigenous Kalinago community.

"I also recommend booking a homestay with a Kalinago family in Touna village. You'll learn so much — like how to cook the best cassava bread, and where's best to go river bathing — while staying in a beautiful part of the island".

Tenby, West Wales — experience a seaside steampunk festival 

Located on the spectacular Pembrokeshire coast, the quaint harbour town of Tenby boasts golden beaches, ice cream shops aplenty, and easy-access to stacks of child-pleasing attractions that make it one of the best places to add to your family Wales itinerary.

And now, thanks to a fabulous new festival that offers a window into British eccentricity in one of the UK’s best seaside towns, Tenby is also a top spot in which to experience something new — and very different — in 2025.

After an inaugural event in 2024, the 2025 Tenby Steampunk Festival (28th-30th March) will be on a much bigger scale. Expect a flamboyant Peacock Parade through the town’s medieval walkways, plus teapot races, tea-duelling, art exhibitions, live music and a steampunk emporium.

Editor’s tip: "I visit Pembrokeshire a few times a year, and always try to spend time in the pretty town of Narberth. It's loaded with locally-owned boutiques and family-friendly places to eat and drink. 

"I also recommend booking a boat trip (or two!) to explore Pembrokeshire's magnificent coastline and islands. Head to Tenby Harbour to check out what trips are running during your stay".

Zagori — a new way to see Greece

Think you know Greece? Think again. Located in a wildly beautiful region of Greece's central mainland, Zagori is sure to give you a new perspective on a country that typically conjures image of idyllic islands and Athens’ ancient icons.

A highlight of this region is Vikos Gorge —  a UNESCO Geopark, and the second deepest gorge in the world (only the Grand Canyon is deeper). Hiking here is an unforgettable experience to add to your Greece itinerary — think lush forests, babbling rivers and jagged peaks.

Editor's tip: "Hiking aside, one of the things I love most about Zagori is spending time in traditional villages between trekking trails. Don't pass up the chance to try locally-made cheese".

Explore a new UNESCO site in Gedi, Kenya 

While the next tranche of UNESCO World Heritage Sites won’t be revealed until summer 2025, we wanted to highlight an exciting new recent addition to the UNESCO family. Namely, the Historic Town and Archeological Site of Gedi in Kenya.

Located near the coast in Kenya’s Kilifi district, Gedi was the most significant Swahili city on the coast of East Africa coast from the 10th to 17th centuries. 

Today, surrounded by 45 acres of lush forest, you can explore the remains of mosques, palaces and private dwellings during a Kenya itinerary that could also see you enjoy thrilling safaris.

Editor's tip: "if you have chance, take a trip to Kenya's Wasini island. I’ll never forget the moment a giant turtle appeared beneath me during a snorkeling stop-off".

Visit an epic new 5-in-1 theme park in Orlando

May 2025 will see a new kid arrive on Orlando’s theme park block, courtesy of Universal Epic Universe.

Encompassing five fantastical worlds, visitors will get to explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park on a single, colossal site.

Editor's tip: "If the thought of Florida's theme parks leaves you cold, head instead to the Florida Keys for unforgettable nature experiences".

While that brings our suggested 25 best places to travel in 2025 to a close, you'll find more travel inspiration in our trip search tool — it’ll help you navigate your way to your ideal itinerary.