Lonely Planet, the global authority on travel, has revealed its top destinations to visit next year with the launch of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025. The 15th edition of this bestselling book features 30 must-visit destinations around the world and, for the first time, the title includes the top 10 travel trend predictions for the upcoming year.
The international team of experts at Lonely Planet, including editors, writers, and other contributors from around the globe, selected the 30 must-visit global destinations across three categories: cities, countries, and regions. Each category showcases 10 destinations, chosen for their timeliness, unique attributes, and experiences, including food, history, architecture, art, vibrant local culture, and natural beauty, as well as their ongoing commitment to sustainability, community, and diversity.
Known as La Ville Rose, Toulouse, France, was named the best city for its ever-expanding art scene, laid-back riverside strolls, and many must-see attractions. The West African nation of Cameroon tops the list of countries for its pristine beaches, less crowded national parks, and the variety of lively nightlife found in its major cities. Named the best region, Low Country and Coastal Georgia, including Charleston, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia, stood out for its historical and cultural significance, carefully balancing recognition of the past with an embrace of a better future. For explorers passionate about off-the-beaten-path adventures, Lonely Planet recommends hiking the Jordan Trail and exploring the stunning natural beauty of the Chiriqui region in Panama.
Exclusive to Best in Travel 2025 is the new list of travel trends, focused on the passion and enthusiasm that drive decision-making now. For each individual interest – such as birdwatching, trains, local markets, and underrated outdoor adventures – Lonely Planet names the top 10 destinations where readers can explore and experience these passions.
Available globally for purchase at shop.lonelyplanet.com, the hardcover book Best in Travel 2025 features stunning photography, local insights, and unique experiences for each of this year’s listed destinations. To complement the print edition, travelers can check out the Lonely Planet website and follow social media accounts to engage with interactive digital content from each of this year’s selections, including immersive videos showcasing the beauty of Chiang Mai, Thailand, Genoa, Vanuatu, and Armenia.
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025
Best Cities:
01. Toulouse, France
02. Pondicherry, India
03. Bansko, Bulgaria
04. Chiang Mai, Thailand
05. Genoa, Italy
06. Pittsburgh, USA
07. Osaka, Japan
08. Curitiba, Brazil
09. Palma de Mallorca, Spain
10. Edmonton, Canada
Top Travel Trends for 2025
• Train Journeys – From epic intercontinental trips to slow travel on secondary lines, train adventures are more popular than ever among contemporary travelers.
• Taking It Easy – Slow travel emphasizes the value of being present in the natural world, escaping the stress and worry of an always-on digital world.
• Following the Music – Experience-based travel continues to resonate with music lovers seeking iconic venues around the world.
• Extreme Birdwatching – More than ever, bird enthusiasts are planning entire vacations around observing their feathered friends.
• Wonderful Markets – Interest in local markets continues to grow as travelers seek sensory ways to immerse themselves in local life.
• What a Drag – The most incredible drag shows in the world are celebrations of inclusion and connection, bringing people together through artistic and human expression.
• Underrated Parks – Intrepid adventurers compete to find the most discreet parks and reserves, reclaiming outdoor spaces from the crowds to experience nature without lines.
• Local Flavors – Eating and traveling are inextricably linked, and more travelers are seeking destinations where distinctive and delicious cuisine and local food culture take center stage.
• Tree Adventures – Places known for their remarkable trees and forests are in high demand as travelers discover new ways to connect with their surroundings.
• Best Beaches – Offering relaxation, untouched beauty, and connection with nature, beach vacations will always be in vogue.
For more information about Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025, visit: lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel