Travel in 2025 is all about seeking out the extraordinary, venturing to places that not only offer breathtaking experiences but also contribute positively to the world. Forget the overtrodden paths; this year, we’re spotlighting destinations that are consciously balancing tourism with sustainability, cultural preservation, and community support. Based on insights from BBC Travel journalists and leading voices in sustainable tourism, we’ve curated a list of 25 Cool Travel Destinations for 2025 that promise unforgettable adventures with a responsible footprint.
Explore the vibrant hues of Hutt Lagoon, a pink lake in Western Australia, a truly cool and unique travel destination.
From swimming ethically with sperm whales in Dominica to exploring the otherworldly landscapes of Greenland, these destinations are not just welcoming tourists; they are inviting you to be part of a positive change. As global tourism rebounds and environmental awareness grows, choosing where to travel becomes an act of conscious exploration. These cool travel destinations offer the chance to witness unparalleled beauty while supporting a more sustainable and equitable future for the places we visit.
Discover the pristine nature of Dominica, now more accessible with new flights, making it a top cool travel destination for 2025.
1. Dominica: Ethical Whale Encounters and Caribbean Charm
For a truly cool and unforgettable wildlife experience, Dominica stands out. This Caribbean island is pioneering regenerative tourism with the establishment of the world’s first sperm whale reserve. Imagine swimming alongside these gentle giants in their protected habitat, a unique and ethical encounter facilitated by limited permits. Dominica’s commitment to marine conservation is making it a leading destination for responsible wildlife tourism.
Beyond the ocean, Dominica is becoming more accessible than ever. New direct flights from the US and expanded infrastructure, including digital immigration forms and a cable car to Boiling Lake, one of the world’s largest thermal springs, are set to enhance the visitor experience in 2025. With new hotels opening, alongside established eco-luxury options like Secret Bay, Dominica offers a blend of adventure and sustainable indulgence. Don’t miss Project CETI, a fascinating initiative to decode whale language, adding another layer of intrigue to this cool travel destination.
Witness Dominica’s groundbreaking marine conservation efforts, including the world’s first sperm whale reserve, a truly cool initiative.
2. Naoshima, Japan: Art Island Rebirth
Naoshima Island in Japan offers a cool blend of contemporary art and revitalized landscapes. Once known for its polluting copper smelting industry, Naoshima has transformed into a haven for art and architecture enthusiasts thanks to Benesse Art Site Naoshima. Home to Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow pumpkin, the island and its neighbors are now major contemporary art destinations in the serene Seto Inland Sea.
The spring of 2025 marks the opening of the Naoshima New Museum of Art, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, further solidifying the island’s status as a cool cultural hotspot. This new museum will be a highlight of the Setouchi Triennale, a sprawling art festival across 17 islands and coastal areas. Explore the Teshima Art Museum, a stunning synthesis of art and nature, and the Inujima Seirensho Art Museum, a reimagined copper refinery. With unique accommodations like Roka and Espoir Inn, Naoshima and its surrounding islands offer a tranquil and enriching escape.
Explore the art-infused landscapes of Naoshima Island, a cool destination where art and nature intertwine.
3. The Dolomites, Italy: Alpine Adventures Beyond the Crowds
Escape the typical Italian tourist trails and discover the cool, majestic Dolomites. While Rome anticipates Jubilee crowds, the Dolomites offer a stunning alternative in northern Italy. Beloved by Italians for family fun and luxury holidays, these sawtooth limestone cliffs span three regions, offering picturesque villages, world-class skiing, incredible hiking, and hearty Alpine cuisine.
The Dolomites are poised to gain international attention as Cortina d’Ampezzo, the “Queen of the Dolomites,” co-hosts the 2026 Winter Olympics. Preparations throughout 2025 will bring infrastructure improvements, including expanded ski lift networks and enhanced public transport. Beyond winter sports, the Dolomites are a cool destination year-round. Hike the new Cammino Retico trail or relax at the reopened luxury Aman Rosa Alpina hotel. Visit now to experience the Dolomites’ charm before the Olympic spotlight shines too brightly.
Experience the dramatic beauty of the Dolomites, a cool European destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hit the slopes in Cortina d’Ampezzo, a renowned skiing destination in the cool and captivating Dolomites.
4. Greenland: Arctic Wilderness Made Accessible
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is the epitome of a cool, remote adventure. With vast ice caps, dramatic mountains, and majestic fjords, Greenland offers unparalleled wilderness experiences. Previously challenging to reach, 2025 marks a turning point with the opening of a new international airport in Nuuk, the capital. Two more airports will follow in 2026, making this Arctic gem more accessible to mindful travelers.
Greenland is committed to sustainable tourism, encouraging visitors to respect its nature and Inuit culture. Explore Nuuk, a modern city with a historic waterfront, and venture north to Ilulissat to witness the breathtaking icebergs of the UNESCO-recognized Icefjord. In the south, discover Viking history and scenic fjords. Greenland’s pledge towards “better tourism” ensures your adventure contributes to local communities and environmental protection, making it a truly cool and responsible travel choice.
Witness the majestic Ilulissat Icefjord in Greenland, a cool Arctic destination now more easily accessible.
5. Wales: A Year of Welcome and Welsh Culture
Wales, often overshadowed by its UK neighbors, is a cool destination brimming with national parks, medieval castles, and fewer crowds. 2025 is the “Year of Croeso” (“Welcome”) in Wales, celebrating Welsh culture and language. Experience “hwyl,” a unique Welsh joy of being immersed in the moment, throughout the year-long festivities.
Wales is at the forefront of sustainable, culturally focused travel. Tourism supports the revival of the Welsh language, and tourism funds are invested in environmental sustainability. Explore the wild side of Wales with new mobility bikes and hike the Wales Coast Path, the world’s only path encircling an entire country’s coastline. Discover the cool, welcoming spirit of Wales in 2025.
Immerse yourself in Welsh culture during the Year of Croeso, making Wales a cool and culturally rich destination.
Hike the scenic Wales Coast Path, a cool way to experience the country’s stunning coastline.
6. Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: Highway to the North
Labrador, in eastern Canada, is a vast, rugged, and undeniably cool region. Known for its coastal villages, icebergs, subarctic forests, and waterfalls, Labrador boasts over 9,000 years of history. The completion of the Trans-Labrador Highway in 2025, a 25-year, $1 billion project, transforms this remote landscape into a more accessible destination.
This new circular route, “Expedition 51,” connects Labrador with five Canadian provinces and offers detours into the US and even France. Canada’s investment of $180 million in Parks Canada sites in Western Newfoundland and Labrador promotes sustainable tourism and celebrates local heritage. Explore Red Bay National Historic Site, L’Anse aux Meadows, and Gros Morne National Park, all enhanced for visitors in 2025. Labrador offers a cool, off-the-beaten-path Canadian adventure.
Embark on a road trip along the Trans-Labrador Highway, unlocking access to cool and remote Canadian landscapes.
7. Tucson, Arizona, US: Gastronomic Heritage in the Desert
Tucson, Arizona, celebrates a decade as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy and its 250th anniversary in 2025, making it a cool destination for foodies and history buffs. Originally part of Mexico, Tucson honors its multinational history and Native American roots. Explore desert hiking trails, historic buildings like San Xavier del Bac, and celebrate at a free event on August 23rd.
Tucson’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in ancient traditions. The area boasts the oldest continuously cultivated soil in the US, where the Tohono O’odham’s ancestors farmed 4,000 years ago. Dine at city-of-gastronomy-certified restaurants and Heirloom Farmers Markets to savor unique local ingredients. Tucson’s blend of history, culture, and gastronomy earns it a Sustainability Index Award, making it a cool and conscious destination.
Discover Tucson’s rich gastronomic heritage, rooted in ancient soils, a cool destination for culinary exploration.
8. Western Australia: Pink Lakes and Western Gateway
Western Australia (WA), home to Perth, the world’s most isolated big city, is emerging as a cool and must-visit destination in 2025. With new direct flights to Europe and enhanced connections to Asia, Perth is positioning itself as Australia’s western gateway. A $5 billion redevelopment of Perth Airport will further improve the travel experience.
Beyond Perth, WA’s vast landscapes are breathtaking. Explore 12,500km of coastline, bubblegum-pink lakes, horizontal waterfalls, karri forests, and unique wildlife. Road trip sustainably on the new 6,600km Electric Vehicle Highway. WA also champions Indigenous tourism through the Jina Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan. Experience truth-telling walking tours and coastal foraging tours. With ancient petroglyphs, new infrastructure, and boutique accommodations, WA is redefining Australian travel as a cool and diverse destination.
Marvel at Western Australia’s bubblegum-pink lakes, a truly cool and naturally stunning phenomenon.
Explore the vineyards of Swan Valley Wine Region in Western Australia, a cool and delightful experience for wine lovers.
9. Sri Lanka: Resilient Island Rebound
Sri Lanka, with its tea plantations, wild elephants, ancient temples, and surf, is a cool destination offering diverse experiences. After economic challenges in 2022, Sri Lanka is rebuilding through tourism. New hotels are opening, including the seven-star Aviyana Private Chalets in Kandy, and new airline Air Ceilão is launching.
Sri Lanka is embracing sustainable practices with the Good Travel Seal initiative. Enjoy a scenic train ride through the mountains, explore Colombo and Galle’s mixology scene, or hike the Pekoe Trail through tea plantations. For adventurous travelers, self-drive tuk-tuk tours offer a unique way to explore the island. Sri Lanka’s resilience and diverse offerings make it a cool and compelling destination for 2025.
Discover Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital, a cool city rich in history and traditions.
Stargaze at Aarunya Nature Resort in Sri Lanka, a cool and tranquil escape into nature’s wonders.
10. Panama: Canal Anniversary and Biodiversity Hotspot
Panama marks the 25th anniversary of its sovereignty over the Panama Canal in 2025, a cool historical milestone. While the canal is a must-see, Panama offers much more, including vast jungles, idyllic islands, and mountainous forests. Explore new exhibits at the Museo del Canal and discover the country’s rich biodiversity.
The Meaningful Travel Map to Panama makes it easy to find locally led experiences. Explore Panama City, visit La Pintada to see Panama hat weaving, and hike the Cerro Gaital Lookout Trail in El Valle de Anton, named a UN Tourism Best Tourism Village. Panama’s 1,000 km of Trails project boosts sustainable tourism in rural communities, making it a cool and eco-conscious destination.
Experience the vibrant Panama City, a cool urban hub near the iconic Panama Canal.
11. Rif Mountains, Morocco: Northern Morocco Unveiled
Morocco, a popular North African destination, is rebuilding after the 2023 earthquake and aiming to double tourist arrivals by 2030, making it a cool destination to support. Venture beyond Marrakech and explore the Rif Mountains in northern Morocco. Expansion of the High-Speed Rail network will improve access, including a link to Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage city.
Road trip through the Rif Mountains, visiting ancient villages like Moulay Idriss, the Sufi center Ouezzane, and Talassemtane National Park. Discover Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl,” and relax in Mediterranean fishing villages along the coast. Northern Morocco offers a cool and less-crowded alternative to the south.
Wander through the blue streets of Chefchaouen, a cool and visually stunning city in Morocco’s Rif Mountains.
12. Bradford, England: UK City of Culture 2025
Bradford, in northern England, steps into the spotlight as the 2025 UK City of Culture, a cool recognition for this vibrant city. A year-long program includes the reopening of the National Science and Media Museum and celebrations of local icons like David Hockney and the Brontë sisters.
Bradford’s diversity is reflected in its cultural offerings, from historic enclaves like Little Germany to the dramatic moors. It’s a UNESCO City of Film, a setting for hits like Peaky Blinders. Explore open-air sound walks, sculpture trails, and enjoy a diverse culinary scene. Bradford offers a cool and unexpected cultural experience in the UK.
Experience the cultural vibrancy of Bradford, the UK City of Culture 2025, a cool and dynamic destination.
13. Jordan: Adventure in the Middle East
Jordan, home to breathtaking desert landscapes and Petra, is quietly emerging as the Middle East’s cool adventure destination. Despite regional tensions, Jordan is considered relatively safe and welcomes tourists to explore its wonders.
Hike the new Wadi Rum Trail, a 120km path through iconic desert landscapes. Explore Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve, the world’s lowest nature reserve, and Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan’s largest. Dive in the Aqaba Marine Reserve, added to the IUCN Green List in 2025. Jordan offers a cool blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.
Explore the dramatic desert landscapes of Jordan, a cool and adventurous destination in the Middle East.
14. Haa Valley, Bhutan: Himalayan Seclusion and Sustainability
Bhutan, a carbon-negative nation focused on Gross National Happiness, has long been a leader in sustainable tourism. The Haa Valley, a pristine region bordering Tibet, is Bhutan’s best-kept secret and a truly cool, secluded destination. Just recently opened to foreigners, it remains untouched by mass tourism.
Explore Haa’s beauty via the restored Trans Bhutan Trail, the new Haa Panorama Trail, and the Joy Bay Tsho Trek. Stay in locally run homestays and experience Bhutanese culture. Two new low-impact accommodations, Katsho Eco Camp and Sangwa Camp, offer unique experiences. With Bhutan’s halved Sustainable Daily Fee, this paradise is now more accessible, making it a cool and responsible choice.
Discover the serene beauty of Bhutan’s Haa Valley, a cool and sustainable Himalayan destination.
Experience Bhutanese hospitality in locally run homestays in the Haa Valley, a cool and culturally immersive experience.
15. Hawaii, US: Responsible Rebuilding and Mālama
Hawaii, rebuilding after devastating wildfires, welcomes responsible travelers with open arms, making it a cool destination to support. Visitor numbers are down, and local businesses need your support. Embrace the Mālama Hawaii program, meaning “to protect,” and give back to the islands.
Volunteer in forest restoration, community support, or habitat preservation and receive discounted or free stays at hotels and resorts across the islands, including the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Experience the beauty of Hawaii while contributing to its recovery, a cool and meaningful way to travel.
Support Hawaii’s recovery by visiting responsibly and participating in the Mālama Hawaii program, a cool and impactful way to travel.
16. Uzbekistan: Youthful Energy and Silk Road Revival
Uzbekistan, with a young and vibrant population, is a cool destination experiencing a cultural and tourism revival. A new generation is infusing the nation with modern art and culture while preserving ancient traditions. Uzbekistan is investing in tourism with new infrastructure and attractions.
2025 brings the Bukhara Biennial, Uzbekistan’s first major international art event. Explore expanded museums and restored palaces. Visa-free travel for over 90 countries makes Uzbekistan more accessible. The Silk Road railway tour now connects Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Experience the cool blend of old and new in Uzbekistan.
Witness the youthful energy and cultural revival in Uzbekistan, a cool destination bridging ancient traditions and modern dynamism.
17. Haida Gwaii, Canada: Indigenous Rights and Nature’s Majesty
Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off British Columbia, Canada, is a cool destination offering breathtaking landscapes and a deep connection to nature and Indigenous culture. Ecologically rich and isolated, Haida Gwaii is home to unique species and the Haida people for millennia.
The Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement in 2025 is a landmark in Indigenous rights, recognizing the Council of the Haida Nation as the territory’s governing body. Explore Haida villages like SG̱ang Gwaay, a UNESCO site, and encounter unique wildlife. Learn Haida Laws and the concept of Gina ‘waadluxan gud ad kwaagid, emphasizing our shared responsibility to Earth. Haida Gwaii offers a cool and culturally enriching experience.
Experience the revitalized Haida culture in Haida Gwaii, a cool destination where Indigenous heritage and nature thrive.
18. Emerald Coast, Nicaragua: Surfing and Coastal Highway
Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast, with rainforests, lakes, volcanoes, and Granada, remains Central America’s best-kept secret and a cool, undiscovered destination. The new Carretera Costanera highway, completing in 2025, will link 53 beaches along the Pacific Coast, making it easier to reach surf hubs like San Juan del Sur and Popoyo.
This $400 million project aims to boost Nicaragua’s economy through tourism. Learn to surf at local camps, stay in rainforest treehouses, and visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor to see nesting turtles. Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast offers cool surf, nature, and cultural experiences.
Explore Nicaragua’s Emerald Coast via the new Carretera Costanera highway, a cool route to surf and coastal beauty.
Discover the historic charm of Granada, Nicaragua, a cool colonial city celebrating its 500th anniversary.
19. Isle of Man: Self-Governing Island Gem
The Isle of Man, nestled in the British Isles, is a cool and unique self-governing island with a distinct character. Not part of the Commonwealth, it boasts the world’s oldest continuous parliament and is committed to sustainable tourism.
Explore ancient sites like Cashtal yn Ard and Castle Rushen. The Isle of Man is a UNESCO Biosphere, recognized for its environmental and cultural preservation. Visit the new Manx Birdlife Point of Ayre National Reserve and celebrate the 175th anniversary of Okell’s Brewery in 2025. Hike the island’s diverse landscapes and experience its unique Manx culture, a cool and intriguing destination.
Hike the diverse landscapes of the Isle of Man, a cool and self-governing island with unique charm.
20. Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan Region: Himalayan Majesty
Pakistan, often overlooked, is a cool and surprising destination, especially its northern Gilgit-Baltistan region. Responsible tourism initiatives and sustainable efforts are making it more accessible to eco-conscious travelers. Home to five of the world’s tallest peaks, including K2, Pakistan offers unmatched adventure.
Salam Pakistan, the national tourism brand, simplifies visa applications. Explore the scenic Gilgit-Baltistan region, with lush valleys, lakes, and waterfalls. Discover Hunza Valley, Deosai plains, and Khunjerab Pass, which will be open year-round in 2025. Pakistan’s northern regions offer a cool and awe-inspiring Himalayan experience.
Witness the towering peaks of Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, a cool and majestic Himalayan destination.
21. Azores: Europe’s Marine Sanctuary
The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic, are a cool and isolated European destination known for hot springs, lakes, and lava tubes. Already boasting black-sand beaches and whale watching, the Azores now have Europe’s largest protected marine sanctuary.
Approved in 2024, the Marine Protected Area safeguards deep-sea corals, sharks, and whales across 287,000 sq km. Explore Furnas Valley’s volcanoes and hot springs, Terra Nostra Park, and sample cozido das Furnas. Visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s oldest tea plantation. The Azores offer a cool blend of nature and marine conservation.
Explore the dramatic black-sand beaches of the Azores, a cool and volcanic European archipelago.
Discover the marine biodiversity of the Azores, home to Europe’s largest protected marine sanctuary, a truly cool initiative.
22. Kansas City, Missouri, US: BBQ and Cultural Renaissance
Kansas City, Missouri, is rebranding itself as a cool cultural destination in 2025. Known as “Paris of the Plains,” it’s promoting its arts scene and BBQ culture while launching urban revitalization projects.
The Museum of BBQ, the world’s first dedicated to smoked meat, opens in spring 2025. Berkley Riverfront is developing new dining and shops. Kansas City International Airport has been renovated, and the KC Streetcar extension will improve city access. The Rock Island Bridge will reopen as an entertainment district. Kansas City offers a cool blend of culture, cuisine, and urban renewal.
Experience the cultural renaissance of Kansas City, Missouri, a cool urban destination with a vibrant arts and food scene.
23. Bolivia: Bicentennial Celebrations and Andean Wonders
Bolivia celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2025 with year-long events, making it a cool destination for a celebratory visit. Even if you’ve seen the Uyuni salt flats and La Paz, Bolivia offers more.
Visit from February 24th to March 5th for the UNESCO-listed Oruro Carnival. Sip bicentennial singani in Potosí and explore Chuquisaca (Sucre), home to Quechua peoples and the Museo de Arte Indígena. Hike Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca and explore community-based tourism in Madidi National Park. Bolivia offers a cool blend of culture, history, and natural wonders.
Join the bicentennial celebrations in Bolivia, a cool destination rich in history, culture, and Andean landscapes.
24. Botswana: Green Safaris and Wildlife Haven
Botswana, Africa’s leader in green safari tourism, is a cool and sustainable destination for wildlife enthusiasts. With expanded visa-free entry, Botswana is becoming more accessible. Explore Chobe National Park, the “Elephant Capital of the World,” and the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta, a haven for cheetahs and black rhinos.
New eco-friendly camps are opening in the Okavango Delta, including Mbamba Camp and Monachira Camp, offering luxury and sustainable wildlife experiences. New Air Botswana routes will connect Gaborone to Cape Town. Experience Botswana’s magical nature sustainably, a cool and responsible safari destination.
Embark on a green safari in Botswana, the “Elephant Capital of the World,” a cool and sustainable wildlife destination.
Discover the Okavango Delta in Botswana, a cool and premier luxury safari destination in Africa.
25. Oslo, Norway: Sustainable City Escape
Oslo, Norway, challenges the notion of overtourism and promotes sustainable city exploration, making it a cool and responsible urban destination. Known for walkability, dining, and access to nature, Oslo encourages mindful travel.
Follow Visit Oslo Responsibly guidelines and explore the Green Oslo Guide. Support local businesses like Norwegian Adventure Company. Dine at farm-to-table restaurants like Maaemo. Oslo’s modern architecture, waterfront, and green spaces make it a cool and sustainable city escape.
Explore the sustainable and modern architecture of Oslo, Norway, a cool and eco-conscious city destination.
These 25 cool travel destinations for 2025 offer diverse and enriching experiences, all while prioritizing sustainability and responsible tourism. Plan your next adventure and explore the world with purpose.
