Travel holds an incredible power – it can connect us, ignite our imaginations, and even transform our perspectives. The awe-inspiring sight of a powerful waterfall cascading in Newfoundland or the majestic peaks of the Italian Dolomites reminds us of the wonders our planet holds. However, recent times have highlighted that travel’s impact isn’t always positive. Overtourism is straining beloved destinations, leading to new restrictions in many places.
This inaugural guide to the best places to travel in 2025 focuses on destinations embracing visitors and offering exceptional travel experiences while prioritizing local communities, environmental protection, and cultural preservation. Compiled with insights from BBC Travel journalists and leading sustainable travel organizations like the United Nations World Travel Organization and Sustainable Travel International, this list of 25 locations presents diverse and enriching options for your next adventure.
As global tourism rebounds beyond pre-pandemic levels, and climate change increasingly impacts iconic destinations, thoughtful travel choices are more crucial than ever. Choosing where to travel can be an act of positive contribution.
From exploring Bolivia’s otherworldly landscapes to experiencing Arctic glamping in Greenland, your next great journey awaits.
1. Dominica: A Prime Place to Travel for Ethical Whale Encounters
Dream of swimming with sperm whales? Dominica, a leading Place To Travel for eco-conscious adventurers, now offers this opportunity ethically and sustainably. This Caribbean island nation, committed to marine conservation and regenerative tourism, recently established the world’s first sperm whale reserve. This protected marine area safeguards these ocean giants. Limited permits for whale swims ensure respectful and intimate encounters, providing a unique chance to share the water with these cetaceans while supporting research and sustainable tourism for local communities.
2025 brings enhanced infrastructure to welcome visitors. Digital immigration forms will streamline arrivals, and a cable-car system will transport visitors from Roseau Valley to Boiling Lake, a remarkable thermal spring. Accessibility is improved with United Airlines launching direct flights from Newark on February 15th, complementing existing American Airlines flights from Miami. Nearly 500 new rooms will be available with new hotel openings in 2025, including the luxurious Hilton Tranquility Beach Resort and Spa in Salisbury and the consistently top-rated eco-luxury Secret Bay.
Dominica is also home to Project CETI, a groundbreaking international initiative led by National Geographic Explorer David Gruber, aiming to decode whale language using AI. Beyond whale encounters, explore hidden gorges, towering waterfalls, and savor local flavors at farm-to-table eateries like Lacou. Dominica is more than just a destination; it’s a model for eco-tourism, balancing biodiversity conservation with economic progress, ensuring your travels contribute to protecting this natural paradise.
2. Naoshima, Japan: An Art Island Paradise and Must-See Place to Travel for Culture
Naoshima Island in Japan, famed for Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow Pumpkin sculpture, has transformed into a must-see place to travel for contemporary art and architecture aficionados. Once known for copper smelting, its revitalization is thanks to Benesse Art Site Naoshima, which developed significant museums and site-specific artworks in the scenic Seto Inland Sea. This area, located between Honshu and Shikoku, is experiencing population decline, making art a vital force for regeneration.
Spring 2025 marks the opening of the Naoshima New Museum of Art, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando, who has already contributed nine projects to the island. This museum, showcasing Asian artists, will be a highlight of the Setouchi Triennale. This art festival spans 17 islands and coastal areas of the Seto Inland Sea, unfolding over 100 days across spring, summer, and autumn. This largest Triennale since 2010 is instrumental in revitalizing Naoshima and neighboring islands like Teshima and Inujima.
Visit the Teshima Art Museum, a unique fusion of art, architecture, and nature by Rei Naito and Ryue Nishizawa. On Inujima, explore a former copper refinery reimagined as an epic art installation. For accommodations, consider Roka, a modern ryokan on Naoshima, or the minimalist Espoir Inn on Teshima.
3. The Dolomites, Italy: A Spectacular Place to Travel for Mountain Adventures and Winter Sports
Italy, a perennial favorite, might be overwhelmed by Jubilee crowds in Rome in 2025. For a different Italian experience, consider the Dolomites, a stunning place to travel in Northern Italy.
The Dolomites, beloved by Italians for family vacations and luxury getaways, feature dramatic sawtooth limestone cliffs across Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Popular with Italians for skiing, hiking, and Alpine cuisine, this classic destination is gaining international attention.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, the “Queen of the Dolomites,” will co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics. Preparations throughout 2025 will bring infrastructure upgrades, including expanded ski lift networks in the Dolomiti Superski area. Alta Badia and Val Gardena will modernize lifts and improve public transit connections. New cable cars and gondolas will enhance access across the region.
The Dolomites are captivating year-round. Enjoy hiking trails like the new 170km Cammino Retico (Rhaetian Way) in spring, summer, and autumn. For luxury relaxation, the Aman Rosa Alpina hotel reopens in 2025 with expanded facilities. Visit now before the Olympic crowds arrive.
4. Greenland: An Arctic Wonderland and Unique Place to Travel for Wilderness Exploration
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is unlike any other place on Earth. With a population under 57,000 and vast unspoiled wilderness, Greenland offers unparalleled Arctic adventures. Its majestic fjords, ice cap, and mountains are not only geopolitically significant but also offer lifetime travel experiences.
Greenland is a bucket-list destination for summer hiking and whale watching, winter dog sledding, and the aurora borealis. Previously remote and expensive to reach, accessibility is changing.
The new international airport in Nuuk, opening in 2025, and two more in 2026, will make Greenland more accessible. The country welcomes mindful adventure travelers who respect its nature and Inuit culture. Greenland has adopted a “towards better tourism” pledge and directs tourism funds to benefit local communities.
Nuuk, a modern town with a historic waterfront, serves as a gateway to Greenland’s Arctic territory, offering hiking, fishing, and glamping. Further north in Ilulissat, discover the breathtaking icebergs of Disko Bay and the UNESCO-recognized Icefjord. Southern Greenland, once settled by Vikings, features fjords and green hills with sheep farms.
5. Wales: A Culturally Rich Place to Travel in the UK in 2025
Wales, smaller and less crowded than England, boasts stunning national parks and medieval castles. 2025 is the Year of Croeso (“Welcome”) in Wales, making it an ideal place to travel and experience Welsh culture and language. This year-long event invites visitors to “Feel the hwyl,” a Welsh word for deep joy in the moment.
Wales prioritizes sustainable, culturally focused travel. Tourism supports the Welsh language revival, and a £5 billion program uses tourism funds for environmental sustainability. For the Year of Croeso, Wales is investing in mobility bikes to enhance exploration. Wales is also home to the Wales Coast Path, the world’s first path along an entire country’s coastline.
6. Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada: A Vast and Accessible Place to Travel for Wilderness and History
Labrador, mainland Newfoundland and Labrador in eastern Canada, is a vast, rugged region with coastal villages, icebergs, forests, and waterfalls, steeped in 9,000 years of history. In 2025, the completion of the Trans-Labrador Highway makes this remote landscape more accessible, transforming it into a unique place to travel for adventurers.
This circular route, Expedition 51, connects Labrador with five Canadian provinces, with detours into the US and France (via St Pierre and Miquelon). To promote sustainable tourism and celebrate cultural heritage, the Canadian government invested $180m in Parks Canada sites in Western Newfoundland and Labrador. In 2025, Red Bay National Historic Site, a UNESCO site and former Basque whaling station, will debut a visitor center and boardwalk. L’Anse aux Meadows, the first Norse settlement in North America, is enhancing ecological protections and visitor facilities. Gros Morne National Park will introduce exhibits highlighting its geology, wildlife, and landscapes.
7. Tucson, Arizona, US: A Gastronomic Place to Travel Celebrating Culture and History
Tucson, Arizona, celebrates its 10th anniversary as the first US UNESCO City of Gastronomy and its 250th founding anniversary in 2025. Originally part of Mexico, Tucson will celebrate its multinational history and Native American cultures with a free event on August 23rd at Presidio San Agustin del Tucson. Explore desert hiking trails and historic buildings like the 250-year-old San Xavier del Bac. Tucson is set to receive a Sustainability Index Award from the Global Destination Sustainability Movement.
Tucson’s gardens hold the oldest continuously cultivated soil in the US, farmed by Tohono O’odham ancestors 4,000 years ago. This history shapes Tucson’s unique food scene. Dine at city-of-gastronomy-certified restaurants or Heirloom Farmers Markets, featuring local ingredients like chiltepin chilis and nopales.
8. Western Australia: An Isolated Paradise and Diverse Place to Travel in 2025
Perth and Western Australia (WA), often overshadowed by eastern Australia, are emerging as a global aviation hub and Australia’s western gateway. With Australia’s only direct flights to Europe and new Asian connections, Perth and WA are becoming must-visit places to travel in 2025. A $5bn Perth Airport redevelopment will enhance travel experiences.
Beyond Perth and the Swan Valley Wine Region, WA’s vast landscapes offer 12,500km of coastline, pink lakes, horizontal waterfalls, karri forests, and wildlife encounters. Explore via the new 6,600km Electric Vehicle Highway, the world’s longest EV charging network.
WA champions its cultural heritage through the A$20m Jina Aboriginal Tourism Action Plan, supporting Indigenous-led experiences. Learn about ancient cultures on walking tours or foraging tours. Visit Murujuga National Park (Unesco World Heritage consideration in 2025), explore the Houtman Abrolhos Islands, and enjoy new hotels in Fremantle and unique stays in the Great Southern. WA is redefining Australian travel.
9. Sri Lanka: A Resilient Island Nation and Varied Place to Travel for Culture and Nature
Sri Lanka, with tea plantations, wild elephants, ancient temples, and surf, offers diverse experiences. After economic challenges in 2022, Sri Lanka is rebuilding through tourism, making it a place to travel to support recovery.
Kandy will see its first seven-star hotel, Aviyana Private Chalets. Aarunya Nature Resort has a new stargazing villa. A $1bn megaresort is opening in Colombo, and Sri Lanka’s new airline, Air Ceilão, will fly to Europe and Australia. The Good Travel Seal initiative celebrates sustainable local businesses.
Take a scenic train ride into the mountains, or explore Colombo and Galle’s evolving cocktail scene featuring arrack. Hike the 300km Pekoe Trail through tea plantations and villages. Self-drive a tuk-tuk across the island with a startup supporting local owners.
10. Panama: A Historically Significant Place to Travel in Central America
2025 marks the 25th anniversary of Panama’s sovereignty over the Panama Canal. New exhibits at the Museo del Canal highlight this history. Panama offers more than the canal, including jungles, islands, and forests, making it a diverse place to travel in Central America.
The Meaningful Travel Map to Panama launched in 2024 to facilitate finding locally led travel experiences. Explore Panama City’s Casco Antiguo and El Chorrillo neighborhoods with Localinpty walking tours. Visit La Pintada to see UNESCO-recognized sombrero pintao hat weaving. Hike the Cerro Gaital Lookout Trail in El Valle de Anton, a UN Tourism-recognized community tourism village, part of Panama’s 1,000 km of Trails project to boost sustainable tourism and showcase biodiversity.
11. Rif Mountains, Morocco: A Road Trip Destination and Undiscovered Place to Travel in Morocco
Morocco, known for mountains, deserts, and ancient cities, aims to double tourist arrivals. Bypass crowds and road trip through the Rif Mountains, a less-visited place to travel in Morocco. The High-Speed Rail network expansion will include a Rabat to Fez line, enhancing access to the 1,300-year-old Rif Mountain city of Fez, a UNESCO World Heritage medina and Africa Cup of Nations 2025 host city.
From Fez, drive to Moulay Idriss, an ancient hilltop village. Explore Ouezzane, a Sufism center, and Talassemtane National Park for hiking and natural swimming holes. Visit Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl,” and coastal fishing villages like El Jebha and Tetouan.
12. Bradford, England: UK City of Culture 2025 and Emerging Place to Travel for Arts and Culture
Bradford, northern England, is the 2025 UK City of Culture, stepping into the spotlight as a vibrant place to travel. 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 diverse offerings reflect its historic enclaves like Little Germany and dramatic moors. Local residents from diverse backgrounds contribute to its unique energy. Bradford, a UNESCO City of Film, has hosted productions like Peaky Blinders and Wuthering Heights. An interactive cookbook project celebrates local recipes, making Bradford a destination for all tastes in 2025.
13. Jordan: An Adventure Hub and Historically Rich Place to Travel in the Middle East
Jordan, home to desert landscapes and Petra, is emerging as the Middle East’s adventure destination and a historically significant place to travel. Despite regional instability impacting tourism, Jordan is considered relatively safe by travel advisories.
The new 120km Wadi Rum Trail opened in 2023, promoting sustainable tourism through Jordan’s iconic desert. Beyond Wadi Rum, Jordan has 33 protected ecosystems. Visit Wadi Mujib Biosphere Reserve for canyoning and wildlife, Dana Biosphere Reserve for birdwatching, and Aqaba Marine Reserve for diving in coral reefs added to the IUCN Green List in 2025.
14. Haa Valley, Bhutan: A Sustainable Paradise and Secluded Place to Travel in the Himalayas
Bhutan, a carbon-negative nation focused on Gross National Happiness, is a global sustainability leader. The Haa Valley, once secluded, is now emerging as a place to travel for sustainable and culturally immersive experiences.
Explore Haa’s beauty via the restored Trans Bhutan Trail, the new Haa Panorama Trail, and the Joy Bay Tsho Trek. Locally run homestays and low-impact accommodations like Katsho Eco Camp and Sangwa Camp offer cultural glimpses. Experience Bon rituals and visit Bhutan’s lone strict nature reserve. With Bhutan’s Sustainable Daily Fee halved through 2027, this paradise is more accessible for low-impact tourism.
15. Hawaii, US: A Place to Travel and Support Responsible Tourism Post-Wildfires
Hawaii, recovering from Maui wildfires, is experiencing a tourism downturn. Travelers are encouraged to return responsibly through the Mālama Hawaii program, making it a place to travel with purpose. Mālama means “to protect” in Hawaiian.
The program offers 350+ volunteer opportunities, from reforestation to community support. In exchange for volunteering, travelers receive discounted stays at hotels and resorts across the islands, including the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Support Hawaii’s recovery by traveling responsibly.
16. Uzbekistan: A Culturally Vibrant and Emerging Place to Travel in Central Asia
Uzbekistan, with a young population, is investing in tourism while preserving traditions, making it a culturally vibrant place to travel. New hotels, train routes, and cultural attractions are emerging.
Uzbekistan will host the Bukhara Biennial in September 2025. Cultural developments include an expanded State Museum of Arts and the restored Palace of Prince Romanov. Visa-free entry is available for citizens of over 90 countries. The Silk Road railway tour now connects Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, enhancing regional travel.
17. Haida Gwaii, Canada: A Culturally and Ecologically Rich Place to Travel for Indigenous Experiences
Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off British Columbia, offers nature, culture, and history, making it a profoundly enriching place to travel. Ecologically rich and home to the Haida People for 15,000 years, these islands are unique.
The Gaayhllxid/Gíihlagalgang “Rising Tide” Haida Title Lands Agreement in 2025 marks a landmark moment, recognizing the Council of the Haida Nation as the governing body. This revitalizes Haida culture and environmental stewardship. Explore Haida villages like SG̱ang Gwaay, a UNESCO site, and encounter unique wildlife like the Haida Gwaii black bear. Learn Haida Laws emphasizing Gina ‘waadluxan gud ad kwaagid (“everything depends on everything else”).
18. Emerald Coast, Nicaragua: An Emerging Surf Destination and Economically Impactful Place to Travel
Nicaragua, Central America’s largest country, remains less visited despite rainforests, volcanoes, and Granada. The new Carretera Costanera highway, completing in 2025, will link 53 beaches along the Pacific Coast, making it an emerging place to travel, especially for surfers.
This $400m highway enhances access from Managua to surf hubs like San Juan del Sur and Popoyo along the Emerald Coast. The Costanera aims to boost Nicaragua’s economy through tourism. Learn to surf at local surf camps, stay in rainforest treehouses, and visit Refugio de Vida Silvestre La Flor to see nesting sea turtles.
19. Isle of Man: A Self-Governing Island and Historically Rich Place to Travel
The Isle of Man, surrounded by the UK but self-governing, is committed to preserving its distinct character and sustainable tourism. Ruled by the Tynwald, the world’s oldest continuous parliament, it’s a historically rich place to travel.
Home to ancient sites like Cashtal yn Ard and Castle Rushen, the Isle of Man was recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere in 2016. Visit the new Manx Birdlife Point of Ayre National Reserve and celebrate the 175th anniversary of Okell’s Brewery in 2025. Explore on foot to appreciate its unique blend of landscapes and culture.
20. Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan Region: An Adventurous and Surprisingly Beautiful Place to Travel
Pakistan, despite being populous, is a surprising travel destination. Responsible tourism initiatives aim to attract eco-conscious visitors to its northern regions, a stunning place to travel for mountain scenery and adventure.
Salam Pakistan, Pakistan’s national tourism brand, facilitates e-visas and bookings for mountaineering and trekking. Gilgit-Baltistan, “heaven’s gate,” features valleys, lakes, and waterfalls. Explore Hunza Valley, UNESCO-listed Deosai plains, and Khunjerab Pass, which will be operational year-round from 2025.
21. Azores: A Marine Sanctuary and Naturally Stunning Place to Travel in Europe
The Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic, are known for hot springs, lakes, and lava tubes, making them a naturally stunning place to travel. The Azores boast black-sand beaches and whale watching and now feature Europe’s largest protected marine sanctuary.
This Marine Protected Area, larger than Great Britain, safeguards deep-sea corals, sharks, and 28 whale and dolphin species. Participate in whale watching and sustainable marine research. Explore Furnas Valley, botanical gardens, and Terra Nostra Park. Enjoy hot springs, sample cozido das Furnas, and visit Gorreana Tea Factory, Europe’s oldest tea plantation.
22. Kansas City, Missouri, US: A Rebranding City and Emerging Place to Travel for Culture and BBQ
Kansas City, Missouri, is rebranding itself as a cultural destination in 2025, making it an emerging place to travel in the US. Promoting its arts scene and BBQ culture, Kansas City is launching urban revitalization plans.
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. Upgrades to the KC Streetcar and the reopening of Rock Island Bridge as an entertainment district will enhance visitor experiences.
23. Bolivia: A Bicentennial Celebration and Uniquely Diverse Place to Travel in South America
Bolivia celebrates its 200th anniversary in 2025 with events throughout the year, making it a uniquely diverse place to travel in South America. Visit the Uyuni salt flats and La Paz, and experience bicentennial festivities.
Attend the Oruro Carnival from February 24th to March 5th, a UNESCO Heritage folk-dance parade. In Potosí, try bicentennial singani. Chuquisaca, Bolivia’s prettiest city, hosts the Museo de Arte Indígena. Visit Isla del Sol on Lake Titicaca and explore community-based tourism in Madidi National Park.
24. Botswana: An African Green Safari Leader and Wildlife-Rich Place to Travel
Botswana, Africa’s green safari leader, is growing its tourism sector in 2025, becoming an increasingly accessible place to travel for wildlife experiences. Visa-free entry is granted to visitors from 104 countries.
Explore Chobe National Park, the “Elephant Capital of the World,” and the UNESCO-listed Okavango Delta. New openings in the Okavango Delta include the solar-powered Mbamba Camp and Monachira Camp, offering walking safaris and canoe rides. New Air Botswana routes connect Gaborone to Cape Town, enhancing accessibility for sustainable safaris.
25. Oslo, Norway: A Sustainable City Escape and Naturally Beautiful Place to Travel in Europe
Oslo, Norway, known for walkability, dining, and nature access, is promoting sustainable tourism, making it a responsibly beautiful place to travel in Europe. Oslo encourages visitors to follow Visit Oslo Responsibly guidelines and the Green Oslo Guide.
Hotels feature green roofs, and local businesses like the Norwegian Adventure Company offer sustainable experiences. Dine at farm-to-table restaurants like Michelin-starred Maaemo. Explore fjords, islands, and Nordic landscapes while supporting sustainability in one of the world’s most sustainable cities.
