From bubblegum-pink lakes in Western Australia to innovative eco-tourism in Dominica, explore the top global destinations recommended by BBC Travel journalists for your 2025 adventures.
Travel possesses a remarkable ability to connect us, ignite our imaginations, and profoundly change our perspectives. Standing at the edge of a roaring waterfall in Newfoundland or gazing up at the jagged peaks of the Italian Dolomites reminds us of the Earth’s breathtaking beauty. However, the past year has underscored that travel’s impact can be double-edged, potentially straining and even damaging beloved destinations. As a result, many locations are now implementing new measures to manage the pressures of overtourism.
As tourism rebounds beyond pre-pandemic levels in numerous regions, and as extreme weather and climate change highlight the vulnerability of many iconic destinations, thoughtful travel choices become increasingly crucial. Choosing where to travel is now also a decision about where your journey can contribute to a greater good.
Whether it’s trekking through a surreal, moon-like landscape in Bolivia or experiencing Arctic glamping in Greenland, your next unforgettable adventure awaits.
1. Dominica: Ethical Whale Encounters and Caribbean Eco-Tourism
Dream of swimming with sperm whales in a responsible and sustainable manner? Dominica is now offering this extraordinary opportunity as part of its pioneering commitment to marine conservation and regenerative tourism. This Caribbean island nation recently established the world’s first sperm whale reserve, a protected marine sanctuary dedicated to these majestic creatures. Limited permits for whale swims ensure intimate and respectful interactions, allowing visitors to share the ocean with these incredible cetaceans while supporting vital research and creating sustainable tourism opportunities for local communities.
Dominica is enhancing its infrastructure for 2025, with digital immigration forms streamlining arrivals and a new cable car system providing easy access from Roseau Valley to Boiling Lake, one of the planet’s largest thermal springs. Getting to the island is now even more convenient with United Airlines launching direct flights from Newark on February 15th, in addition to existing American Airlines flights from Miami. Several new hotels are opening in 2025, adding nearly 500 rooms, a 25% increase in inventory, including the luxurious six-star Hilton Tranquility Beach Resort and Spa in Salisbury. For a proven eco-conscious choice, consider Secret Bay, a luxury eco-property consistently recognized for its sustainability efforts.
Dominica is also the base for Project CETI, a groundbreaking international initiative led by National Geographic Explorer David Gruber, focused on deciphering whale language using AI to analyze sperm whale clicks and codas. Beyond whale encounters, Dominica offers hidden gorges, dramatic waterfalls, and authentic local cuisine at farm-to-table restaurants like Lacou. Dominica represents more than just a destination; it’s a movement championing eco-tourism that harmonizes biodiversity conservation with economic growth, ensuring your adventure contributes to protecting this natural paradise for future generations. – Pier Nirandara
2. Naoshima, Japan: Contemporary Art and Island Revitalization
Naoshima Island in Japan, famed for Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow polka-dot Pumpkin sculpture, has evolved into a premier destination for contemporary art and architecture enthusiasts. Once primarily known for its copper smelting industry and facing population decline, Naoshima’s transformation is attributed to Benesse Art Site Naoshima. This initiative has fostered major museums and site-specific artworks within the stunning Seto Inland Sea, nestled between Honshu and Shikoku islands.
Spring 2025 marks the opening of the Naoshima New Museum of Art, designed by Tadao Ando, the celebrated architect behind nine other projects on the island. This new museum, showcasing works by Asian artists, will be a central attraction of this year’s Setouchi Triennale. This expansive art festival, unfolding across 17 islands and coastal areas of the Seto Inland Sea over 100 days in spring, summer, and autumn, is the largest Triennale since its inception in 2010. The festival and Benesse Art Site Naoshima have been pivotal in revitalizing Naoshima and neighboring islands like Teshima and Inujima.
Plan ahead to visit the Teshima Art Museum by Rei Naito and Ryue Nishizawa, a unique fusion of art, architecture, and nature. On Inujima, explore the remnants of a historic copper refinery reimagined as an epic art installation. For memorable accommodations, consider Roka, a modern ryokan on Naoshima, or the minimalist Espoir Inn on Teshima. – Simon Richmond
3. The Dolomites, Italy: Alpine Majesty and Olympic Buzz
Italy, a perennial favorite, hardly needs further promotion, especially in a year when its overtouristed capital, Rome, anticipates even larger crowds due to the 2025 Jubilee. However, if Italy remains on your 2025 travel list, consider venturing north to the breathtaking Dolomite Mountains.
For Italians, the dramatically beautiful Dolomites are synonymous with family vacations and luxurious getaways. These stunning sawtooth limestone cliffs stretch across Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, drawing Italian vacationers annually with picturesque villages, world-class skiing, thrilling hikes, and hearty Alpine cuisine. Often overlooked by international visitors, this classic Italian playground is on the verge of wider recognition.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, the “Queen of the Dolomites,” is co-hosting the 2026 Winter Olympics. Preparations throughout 2025 will bring significant infrastructure improvements across the region, creating pre-Olympic excitement. Expect expanded ski lift networks in the Dolomiti Superski area, with Alta Badia and Val Gardena upgrading lifts and enhancing public transit connections. New and improved cable cars, lifts, and gondolas will be introduced throughout the region’s towns.
The Dolomites are captivating year-round. Spring, summer, and autumn offer exceptional trails, such as the new 170km Cammino Retico (The Rhaetian Way), connecting remote villages between Veneto and Trentino regions. For ultimate relaxation, the luxurious Aman Rosa Alpina hotel will reopen in 2025 with expanded accommodations. Visit now, before the Olympic crowds arrive. – Eva Sandoval
4. Greenland: Arctic Wilderness and Accessible Adventures
Greenland is truly unique. The world’s largest island, spanning over two million square kilometers, has a population of fewer than 57,000. Its vast ice cap, spectacular mountains, unspoiled wilderness, and majestic fjords offer unparalleled adventures.
Greenland provides stunning hiking, captivating whale watching in summer, and traditional dog sledding and the magical aurora borealis in winter, making it a bucket-list destination. Previously remote, expensive, and challenging to reach, Greenland is now more accessible.
The opening of a new international airport in Nuuk, the capital, followed by two more in 2026, significantly improves access to Greenland. The country welcomes mindful adventure travelers who appreciate exploration while respecting its incredible nature and unique Inuit culture. Greenland has adopted a “pledge towards better tourism” and a new law directing tourism funds to benefit local communities.
Nuuk, a modern town with a historic waterfront, informative museums, and impressive art galleries, serves as a gateway to hiking, fishing, glamping, and exploring the Arctic territory. Further north in Ilulissat, discover the breathtaking icebergs of Disko Bay and the dramatic UNESCO-recognized Icefjord. Southern Greenland, once settled by Vikings, features beautiful fjords and scenic green hills dotted with sheep farms. – Adrienne Murray Nielsen
5. Wales: Culture, Language, and Coastal Wonders
Wales, though smaller than England, boasts stunning national parks, impressive medieval castles, and fewer crowds, enhancing its appeal. 2025 presents an extra incentive to explore this rising European destination as Wales celebrates the Year of Croeso (“Welcome”). This year-long event highlights Welsh culture, language, and attractions, inviting visitors to “Feel the hwyl,” a Welsh word describing a deep, joyful immersion in the moment.
Wales has positioned itself as a leader in sustainable, culturally focused travel. Tourism supports the Welsh language revival, and a £5 billion program uses tourism funds to enhance environmental sustainability. For the Year of Croeso, Wales is investing in mobility bikes to facilitate exploration of its wild landscapes. Wales is also home to the Wales Coast Path, the world’s only path spanning an entire country’s coastline. – Eliot Stein
6. Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: Rugged Landscapes and Trans-Labrador Highway
Labrador, the mainland part of Newfoundland and Labrador in eastern Canada, is a vast, rugged region known for coastal villages, towering icebergs, subarctic forests, and massive waterfalls, with a rich 9,000-year human history. In 2025, the completion of the 1,200km Trans-Labrador Highway, a 25-year, $1 billion project, makes this remote landscape more accessible.
This new circular route, Expedition 51, connects Labrador to five Canadian provinces, with detours into the US and even France (via St Pierre and Miquelon). To promote sustainable tourism and celebrate cultural heritage, the Canadian government has invested $180 million in Parks Canada sites in Western Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2025, Red Bay National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Basque whaling station, will debut a new interactive boardwalk and visitor center. L’Anse aux Meadows, the first Norse settlement in North America, is enhancing ecological protections and visitor facilities. Gros Morne National Park will introduce new exhibits highlighting its geology, wildlife, and landscapes. – Diane Selkirk
7. Tucson, Arizona, US: Gastronomic Delights and Desert History
Tucson, Arizona, celebrates in 2025 the 10th anniversary of becoming the first US UNESCO City of Gastronomy and its 250th anniversary. Originally part of Mexico, Tucson will celebrate its multinational history and deep Native American cultures with a free event on August 23rd at Presidio San Agustin del Tucson, featuring traditional Mexican music and dance. Throughout the year, explore Tucson’s desert hiking trails and historic buildings like the 250-year-old San Xavier del Bac, the “White Dove of the Desert.” Tucson is also set to receive a Sustainability Index Award from the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS) this year.
The nearby gardens boast the oldest continuously cultivated soil in the US, farmed 4,000 years ago by the Tohono O’odham’s ancestors. This heritage blends with Mexican and other Indigenous flavors, still prominent in Tucson’s cuisine. Experience Tucson’s food scene at city-of-gastronomy-certified restaurants or Heirloom Farmers Markets, featuring local ingredients like chiltepin chilis, nopales, and prickly pear. – Lynn Brown
8. Western Australia: Pink Lakes, Pristine Coastlines, and Indigenous Culture
Perth, known as the world’s most isolated big city, and Western Australia (WA) are emerging from the shadow of eastern cities like Melbourne and Sydney. With Australia’s only direct flights to Europe, Perth is positioning itself as Australia’s western gateway and a global aviation hub, with a $5 billion Perth Airport redevelopment enhancing travel. New connections to Asia further establish WA as a must-visit destination in 2025.
Beyond Perth and the Swan Valley Wine Region, WA’s vast landscapes cover 2.5 million square kilometers, including 12,500km of coastline, pink lakes, horizontal waterfalls, karri forests, wildflowers, wineries, and wildlife encounters like whale shark swims and quokka selfies. Explore sustainably on the new 6,600km Electric Vehicle Highway, the world’s longest EV charging network.
WA champions its cultural heritage through the A$20 million Jina Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan, supporting Indigenous-led experiences and business development. Learn about ancient cultures on truth-telling walking tours or 4WD coast foraging tours with bush barbecues. Discover ancient petroglyphs at Murujuga National Park (UNESCO World Heritage status pending in 2025), new disability-friendly infrastructure on the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, boutique hotels in Fremantle, and tiny dream stays in the Great Southern. WA is poised to redefine Australian travel this year. – Ellie Cobb
9. Sri Lanka: Tea Plantations, Ancient Temples, and Resilient Culture
Sri Lanka, with its misty tea plantations, wild elephants, ancient temples, and surfable waves, offers diverse attractions. Despite economic challenges in recent years, Sri Lanka is rebuilding its tourism sector.
Kandy will see the opening of its first seven-star hotel, Aviyana Private Chalets, while Aarunya Nature Resort has a new stargazing family villa. A $1 billion mega-resort is opening in Colombo, and Sri Lanka’s new airline, Air Ceilão, will launch flights to Europe and Australia. The nation also introduced the Good Travel Seal initiative, recognizing sustainable businesses.
For a “coolcation,” take a scenic train ride into the mountainous interior or explore Colombo and Galle’s evolving mixology scene, featuring arrack, a 5th-century spirit. Hike the 300km Pekoe Trail through tea plantations and rural villages in the Central Highlands. For extensive exploration, rent a self-drive tuk-tuk, with proceeds supporting local owners. – Claire Turrell
10. Panama: Canal History, Biodiversity, and Community Tourism
2025 marks the 25th anniversary of Panama’s sovereignty over the Panama Canal. New permanent exhibits at the Museo del Canal highlight Panama’s path to canal control. Beyond the canal, Panama offers vast jungles, idyllic islands, and mountainous forests.
In 2024, the Meaningful Travel Map to Panama launched with Tourism Cares, facilitating access to locally led travel experiences. Explore Panama City’s Casco Antiguo and El Chorrillo neighborhoods with Localinpty walking tours. In La Pintada, witness the UNESCO-recognized sombrero pintao hat-weaving tradition. Hike the newly opened Cerro Gaital Lookout Trail in El Valle de Anton, a UN Tourism-recognized community tourism village, offering views of both the Pacific and Caribbean. This trail is part of Panama’s 1,000 km Trails project, promoting sustainable tourism and showcasing Panama’s biodiversity. – Kathleen Rellihan
11. Rif Mountains, Morocco: Northern Charm and Cultural Road Trips
Morocco, with its snowcapped mountains, deserts, ancient cities, and rich culture, is a popular North African destination. The 2023 Al Haouz earthquake impacted tourism, but Morocco is rebuilding and aiming to double tourist arrivals in five years, preparing for the 2030 FIFA World Cup co-hosting.
Explore the Rif Mountains in northern Morocco to avoid crowds. Morocco’s High-Speed Rail (HSR) network expansion by 2025-2027 will include a Rabat-Fez line. Fez, a 1,300-year-old walled city with a UNESCO World Heritage medina and Africa Cup of Nations 2025 host, is a gateway to the Rif Mountains. Drive north to Moulay Idriss, an ancient hilltop village, and Ouezzane, a Sufism center. Hike in Talassemtane National Park, then visit Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl,” known for its blue buildings. Explore northern coastal villages like El Jebha and Tetouan. – Alicia Erickson
12. Bradford, England: UK City of Culture 2025
Bradford, in northern England, steps into the spotlight as the 2025 UK City of Culture. A year-long program includes the reopening of the National Science and Media Museum and celebrations of local icons: David Hockney, the Brontë sisters, and diverse musical traditions.
Bradford’s diverse offerings reflect its historic enclaves like Little Germany and dramatic moors hosting an immersive sound walk and sculpture trail. Its residents represent diverse backgrounds, with a young population.
Bradford is a UNESCO City of Film, setting for Peaky Blinders, Gentleman Jack, and The Railway Children. In 2025, an interactive cookbook project celebrates local community recipes, making Bradford a destination for all tastes. – Norman Miller
13. Jordan: Adventure in the Middle East
Jordan, home to stunning desert landscapes and Petra, is emerging as the Middle East’s adventure destination. Despite regional instability affecting tourism, Jordan is considered relatively safe by travel advisories.
In 2023, the Wadi Rum Trail, a 120km hiking path, opened, showcasing Wadi Rum’s iconic landscapes seen in Star Wars and Dune. This community tourism project promotes sustainable travel and Bedouin cultural heritage.
Jordan has 33 protected ecosystems. Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve offers canyoning and wildlife viewing. Dana Biosphere Reserve hosts diverse bird and mammal species. Aqaba Marine Reserve, added to the IUCN Green List in 2025, boasts coral reefs and diving opportunities. – Florence Craig
14. Haa Valley, Bhutan: Sustainable Seclusion in the Himalayas
Bhutan, once isolated, is now a global sustainability leader, the world’s first carbon-negative nation, measuring Gross National Happiness. Haa Valley, along Bhutan’s western border, remains a hidden gem, culturally distinct and untouched by mass tourism.
Haa Valley is balancing preservation with thoughtful development. Explore its beauty via the restored Trans Bhutan Trail, the new Haa Panorama Trail, and the Joy Bay Tsho Trek.
Sustainable tourism in Haa includes locally run homestays and new accommodations like Katsho Eco Camp and Sangwa Camp. Experience Bon rituals and breakfast in Bhutan’s Jigme Khesar Strict Nature Reserve. With Bhutan’s Sustainable Daily Fee halved through 2027, this paradise is more accessible, while remaining committed to low-impact tourism. – Erin Levi
15. Hawaii, US: Responsible Rebuilding and Mālama Hawaii
Hawaii is experiencing a visitor downturn after the Maui wildfires. As communities rebuild, they welcome responsible travelers through the Mālama Hawaii program.
Mālama Hawaii, meaning “to protect,” connects travelers with volunteer opportunities, from forest restoration to cultural preservation. In exchange, travelers receive discounts at hotels and resorts across the islands, including the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea.
16. Uzbekistan: Youthful Energy and Silk Road Heritage
Uzbekistan boasts a young population, with a new generation shaping its future while preserving traditions. Investing in tourism, Uzbekistan offers new hotels, train routes, and cultural attractions.
Uzbekistan will host the Bukhara Biennial in September 2025. Cultural developments include an expansion of the State Museum of Arts and restoration of the Palace of Prince Romanov.
Citizens of over 90 countries can now visit Uzbekistan visa-free. The Silk Road railway tour now connects Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. – Kathleen Rellihan
17. Haida Gwaii, Canada: Indigenous Rights and Natural Beauty
Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off British Columbia, offers nature, culture, and history. Ecologically rich and isolated, it’s home to 6,800 species and the Haida People for 15,000 years.
The Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement in 2025 recognizes the Council of the Haida Nation as the territory’s governing body, revitalizing Haida culture and environmental stewardship.
Explore Haida villages like SG̱ang Gwaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and encounter unique wildlife. Guests learn Haida Laws, including Gina ‘waadluxan gud ad kwaagid, emphasizing Earth’s interconnectedness. – Diane Selkirk
18. Emerald Coast, Nicaragua: Surfing and Coastal Highways
Nicaragua, Central America’s largest country, is set to become more accessible with the new Carretera Costanera highway, linking 53 beaches along its Pacific Coast.
This $400 million, 350km highway, completing in 2025, connects Managua to surf hubs like San Juan del Sur and Popoyo along the Emerald Coast, boosting economic growth and tourism.
Learn to surf at local camps, stay in rainforest treehouses, and visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor to see nesting turtles. – Eliot Stein
19. Isle of Man: Ancient History and Island Hikes
The Isle of Man, surrounded by the UK but self-governing, preserves its distinct character and sustainable tourism. Ruled by the Tynwald, the world’s oldest parliament, it offers ancient sites like Cashtal yn Ard and Castle Rushen.
Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere in 2016, the Isle of Man prioritizes environmental and cultural preservation. Visit the new Manx Birdlife Point of Ayre National Reserve and celebrate Okell’s Brewery’s 175th anniversary in 2025.
Explore on foot, attending walking events and experiencing diverse landscapes. On Snaefell mountain, see all UK and Ireland countries on a clear day. – Lynn Brown
20. Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan Region: Mountain Majesty and Responsible Tourism
Pakistan, a populous nation, aims to attract eco-conscious visitors to its northern regions, home to five of the world’s highest peaks, including K2, through responsible tourism initiatives.
Salam Pakistan, Pakistan’s national tourism brand, facilitates e-visas and bookings for mountaineering and trekking. Gilgit-Baltistan, “heaven’s gate,” offers valleys, lakes, and waterfalls. Discover Hunza Valley, Deosai plains, and Khunjerab Pass, open year-round from 2025. – Aysha Imtiaz
21. Azores: Marine Sanctuary and Volcanic Wonders
The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic, is known for hot springs, lakes, and lava tubes. It boasts black-sand beaches and whale-watching, and now, Europe’s largest marine sanctuary.
The Azores’ Marine Protected Area, designated in 2024, covers 287,000 sq km, safeguarding marine life. Participate in whale-watching and marine research expeditions.
Explore Furnas Valley with active volcanoes, hot springs, and Terra Nostra Park. Enjoy thermal pools at Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, and sample cozido das Furnas and local tea. – Michelle Gross
22. Kansas City, Missouri, US: Cultural Rebrand and BBQ Heritage
Kansas City, Missouri, is rebranding as a cultural destination in 2025, promoting its arts scene and BBQ culture, with new museums, districts, and hotels.
The Museum of BBQ, the world’s first dedicated to smoked meat, opens in spring 2025 at Crown Center. Berkley Riverfront is developing new dining and shopping experiences. Kansas City International Airport completed renovations in 2023, and KC Streetcar extensions are underway. Rock Island Bridge reopens in spring 2025 as an entertainment district. – Eva Sandoval
23. Bolivia: Bicentennial Celebrations and Indigenous Culture
Bolivia celebrates its 200th anniversary in August 2025 with events throughout the year. Visit for the Oruro Carnival (February 24 – March 5), a UNESCO Heritage folk-dance parade. In Potosí, try bicentennial singani.
Bolivia has the largest Indigenous population in South America. Visit Chuquisaca (Sucre) and the Museo de Arte Indígena. Explore Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca. Discover community-based tourism, like Chalalan Ecolodge in Madidi National Park. – Laura Norkin
24. Botswana: Green Safaris and Wildlife Havens
Botswana, Africa’s green safari tourism leader, is expanding its tourism sector in 2025. Visa-free entry for 104 countries makes it more accessible. Explore Chobe National Park, the “Elephant Capital,” and the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta, a cheetah and black rhinoceros haven.
New Okavango Delta openings include the solar-powered Mbamba Camp and Monachira Camp. New Air Botswana routes connect Gaborone to Cape Town. – Eva Sandoval
25. Oslo, Norway: Sustainable Cityscapes and Nordic Nature
Oslo, Norway, promotes itself as a sustainable city with walkability, dining, and access to fjords and islands. Its modern architecture and forests contribute to its sustainability.
Oslo encourages responsible tourism through Visit Oslo Responsibly guidelines and the Green Oslo Guide. Hotels feature green roofs. Support local businesses like Norwegian Adventure Company for sustainable experiences. Dine at farm-to-table restaurants like Maaemo. Discover Oslo in 2025. – Lynn Brown
—
If you liked this story, sign up for The Essential List newsletter – a handpicked selection of features, videos and can’t-miss news, delivered to your inbox twice a week.
For more Travel stories from the BBC, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.
