2025 is the perfect time to tick off all the places you've always wanted to visit. Planning ahead can help you save money and find the best travel and accommodation options. If you're still undecided, National Geographic's "Best of the World 2025" list highlights 25 incredible destinations to explore next year, including Italian destinations.
Italy’s highlighted destinations: Cenobitic monasteries
Among its featured global destinations, the prestigious magazine has included some sites in the heart of Italy. These are the Cenobitic monasteries, unique places for those seeking peace, spirituality, and natural beauty. In Italy, two of the most renowned are the Monastery of La Verna in Tuscany and the Monastery of Monte Oliveto Maggiore in the province of Siena.
La Verna Sanctuary, located in the Casentinesi Forests National Park, is known as the place where St. Francis of Assisi received the stigmata. Beyond its spiritual significance, it offers breathtaking views and an atmosphere of tranquillity that invites reflection.
Monte Oliveto Maggiore, on the other hand, is famous for its artworks depicting the life of St. Benedict. Nestled among the clay hills of the Val d'Orcia, it provides a spiritual experience that appeals to both pilgrims and art lovers alike.
European destinations selected by National Geographic
For those planning a holiday to explore other European countries, the destinations chosen by Best of the World 2025 are well worth a look: from vibrant cities of art to the natural landscapes of the north. Here are some highlights to consider:
- Cork in Ireland is known for its lively cultural scene and rich history. The city has a welcoming atmosphere, with traditional food markets and pubs. It was also selected for its ambitious urban renewal project.
- The Stockholm Archipelago in Sweden, with over 30,000 islands, islets, and rocks, is a paradise for nature and sailing enthusiasts, offering stunning views and tranquillity just minutes from the Swedish capital.
- The Outer Hebrides, off the west coast of Scotland, are celebrated for their wild, unspoiled landscapes, and have appeared in many films and series. In July, they also host a famous Celtic festival.
- Lastly, Brasov, located in the heart of Romania, is a city steeped in legend, surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains and rich in medieval architecture. From here, you can embark on trekking routes and discover beautiful villages.
Must-visit cities in 2025
Looking at global travel destinations, there’s no shortage of ideas for an extraordinary holiday. These suggestions are perfect if you’re planning a multi-stop trip.
Kicking things off, Boise, Idaho (USA), is making a name for itself as a hub for art and gastronomy. In 2025, it will host one of the world’s largest Basque festivals. Los Angeles continues to reinvent itself with fresh and diverse cultural experiences, while Guadalajara in Mexico stands out for its rich history and vibrant art scene. In the Middle East, Abu Dhabi is becoming a major attraction with its bold architectural and cultural projects.
Bangkok remains irresistibly captivating, blending modernity and tradition, while Kanazawa in Japan offers a deep dive into Japanese history just two hours by train from Kyoto. Lastly, Sarajevo is a reader favourite, known for its ancient bridges and the adventures in its surrounding landscapes.
The list also includes entire countries to explore, like Senegal, with Dakar as a top spot for those who love African culture and cuisine. Tunisia, with its ancient Roman ruins and Mediterranean beaches, also promises an unforgettable experience.
Top beach and swimming destinations for summer 2025
Whenever summer comes around, there’s always a stunning seaside destination to explore. National Geographic has highlighted some truly captivating spots, from popular favourites to hidden gems.
Take Haida Gwaii, an archipelago off Canada’s west coast known for its lush rainforests and vibrant Indigenous culture. Then there’s Barbados, with its golden beaches and tropical climate—a Caribbean paradise for anyone seeking relaxation and a bit of fun.
In Indonesia, Raja Ampat ranks among the world’s top dive sites, renowned for its extraordinary underwater biodiversity. Northland, in northern New Zealand, offers an inviting mix of local culture, pristine beaches, and ancient forests. Finally, Australia’s Murray River beckons travellers to venture inland, winding for thousands of kilometres through the heart of the continent.
Trekking and mountains: what not to miss
Adventure calls, and the mountains are ready to answer. From North America to Southeast Asia, 2025 offers countless trekking destinations. Whether you're drawn to mountain ranges or the wilderness, there’s no shortage of options.
Consider Ocala National Forest in Florida, where trails wind through pine forests and clear lakes—a haven for nature and wildlife lovers. The Brazilian Cerrado, with its vast tropical savanna, provides unique paths through endemic flora and fauna. Greenland, with its eternal ice and towering mountains, is every adventurer’s dream for extreme trekking in polar conditions; you can start your journey from the capital, Nuuk.
Suru Valley in India is a lesser-known but equally captivating destination, with traditional villages and ample climbing opportunities. Finally, a journey on the Eastern and Oriental Express offers a blend of luxury and adventure, taking you through Malaysia’s tropical landscapes with stops for rainforest treks along the way.
