Here’s where to travel in 2025
Where to travel in 2025
Where to go in 2025, from off -the-beaten track escapes to unmissable cultural celebrations
Main image: Slovenia
Immerse yourself in Vietnam
With an increasing number of travellers looking for more authentic and immersive experiences, Vietnam has plenty to offer, from cultural and food tours to homestays. Explore the gorgeous sights at a slower pace: Bike, Hike & Kayak Vietnam (via World Expeditions), cycling the streets of Hanoi, hiking the jungle of Cat Ba National Park and kayaking in Lan Ha bay. The trip ends at Ho Chi Minh City, after visiting lesser known parts of the Mekong Delta.
Walk the UK coast
More walking trails are opening up, adding to the King Charles III England Coast Path. When complete, it will join up the entire coastline of England, making it the world’s longest continual coastal walking route, at over 2,700 miles. Along with the release of the film The Salt Path, based on the best-selling memoir of a couple who walk the entire South West Coast Path, there’s going to be plenty of interest in England’s coastal beauty.
Foodie fun in Lisbon
Recently awarded ‘Europe’s Best Culinary City Destination’, beautiful Lisbon has so many fabulous restaurants that regularly top the ‘world’s best’ lists including two Michelin-starred Belcanto with contemporary Potuguese dishes and a vast wine list. There’s a raft of hotel openings in 2025 including the Six Senses, created out of two historic buildings, as well as a new Nobu.
Slovenia’s charm
From the stunning Lake Bled to the capital Ljubljana, there is a huge amount to explore in this Central European gem. And the town of Piran could be a Venice dupe, but without the crowds. Slovenia is also becoming a top spot for foodie visitors, with the 2024 Michelin Guide recognising a total of 63 restaurants; including three Michelin starred Hiša Franko in Kobarid, and two-star Milka in Kranjska Gora. It also has 28,000 wineries, many organic.
Colombia Cool
An increasing number of travellers are being drawn to Colombia with its beautiful beaches, a buzzing food scene and culture. With the Four Seasons set to open a new hotel in Cartagena, it is also becoming a top destination for luxury trips, notes travel company Cartology. Meanwhile, Audley Travel is offering tours that include urban regeneration projects in Medellín. Don’t miss Santa Marta, which is beautifully sited between the Caribbean Sea and Sierra Nevada mountains, and marks its 500th anniversary in 2025.
Amsterdam’s birthday
The Dutch capital will mark its 750th anniversary this year and celebrations are in full swing, running up until the official birthday party on October 27. The special year will offer a whole host of events with music, art, theatre and culture. Combine your city break with a cycling tour (via UTracks), taking a circular trip that starts and finishes in Amsterdam.
