10 Best Dream Destinations To Visit (2025)

With the New Year just around the corner, it’s natural to start feeling itchy feet and dream of faraway places to visit in 2025. The world is filled with breathtaking destinations waiting to be discovered. Have you got your travel plans in place yet? Drum roll for our 10 Best Dream Destinations to Visit (2025) roundup!

Whether you’re seeking golden beaches or national parks, we aim to inspire and guide you on your upcoming journeys, far and wide. Maybe 2025 is the year for a full cultural immersion in vibrant cities. Perhaps the universe will send you off the beaten track and discover hidden gems of natural beauty! Whatever your year of travel looks like, Go Walkabout is here to support you with behind-the-scenes one-way trips or even an annual multi-trip policy.

One thing is for sure. As travel evolves, 2025 will bring new trends, with travellers looking for meaningful, sustainable, and immersive experiences. Let’s dive into the top destinations that should be on your radar, fulfilling all of the above, and why they’re perfect for your bucket list.

Alaska, USA

Best for: outdoor adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts

Alaska’s pristine wilderness is unparalleled. From witnessing the Northern Lights to exploring Denali National Park and cruising past calving glaciers in Kenai Fjords, it’s a destination for awe-inspiring landscapes and rare wildlife encounters.

Boat trips offer another fantastic way to explore Alaska’s natural beauty, such as glacier viewing or wildlife spotting.

The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race in March 2025 celebrates the state’s rich tradition and thrilling competition. 2025 will mark a century since the historic Serum Run that delivered vital diphtheria antitoxins from Nenana to Nome. This milestone makes the annual Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race an even more remarkable, all-encompassing Alaskan adventure, celebrating the state’s rich history and tradition.

Leipzig, Germany

Best for: art lovers, music fans, and urban explorers

Often dubbed the “cooler Berlin,” Leipzig combines historical charm with a contemporary edge. Explore its vibrant art galleries, music festivals, and rich history in the St. Thomas Church and Bach Museum.

The Leipzig Book Fair, held in the spring of 2025, draws literary enthusiasts from around the globe. This inspiring cultural event and the beautiful city centre make Leipzig a dream destination for a long weekend getaway from the UK.

Djerba, Tunisia

Best for: sunseekers and culture enthusiasts

This Mediterranean island boasts golden beaches, traditional souks, and the otherworldly Star Wars filming location at Matmata. Its blend of history and relaxation makes it a hidden gem worth visiting. This unique combination can be compared to the dynamic and cosmopolitan nature of a small island city-state like Singapore.

If you’re there in July, check out the International Ulysses Festival. This festival celebrates the island’s heritage and the Greek hero Ulysses. As legend has it, Ulysses landed on the island during his voyage. You will learn about Tunisian heritage and mythology through music, art, and storytelling, all with a backdrop of picturesque beaches.

Muscat, Oman

Best for: culture seekers and luxury travellers

With its stunning Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, lively Mutrah Souq, and rugged coastline, Muscat offers a harmonious mix of old-world charm and modern luxury. This dream destination should be on your list if you want somewhere different from the crowd.

Oman is one of the most fascinating places to visit in the Middle East. If you’ve got itchy feet and are looking for somewhere to go in the next few weeks, you could catch the end of the Muscat Festival. Typically held from December to January, this city celebration showcases Omani culture with performances, art, and food markets.

Galle, Sri Lanka – UNESCO World Heritage Site

Best for: history buffs and beach lovers

Galle’s UNESCO-listed fort offers a journey back in time, with cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and bustling markets. This coastal gem also boasts stunning beaches perfect for surfing and relaxing. Galle’s vibrant food scene, featuring fresh seafood and spicy curries, adds to its irresistible appeal. Comparable to New Zealand’s South Island, Galle combines stunning natural beauty with a variety of outdoor activities.

The Galle Literary Festival, which will be held in early 2025, features international writers, workshops, and cultural events. It is perfect for anyone who wants to escape the UK winter and soak up world culture.

Matera, Italy

Best for: history enthusiasts and romantic getaways

Matera’s ancient Sassi cave dwellings transport visitors to a bygone era while offering a luxurious twist with boutique hotels and fine dining. The city’s enchanting atmosphere, with its winding streets and panoramic views, makes it a top choice for romantic escapes and history lovers alike.

Special art exhibitions and events in Matera will run throughout 2025 as part of Italy’s celebration of its cultural heritage.

Bhutan

Best for: spiritual seekers and eco-conscious travellers

Bhutan, the “Kingdom of the Happy Dragon,” is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Trek to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery perched on a cliff, explore pristine valleys, and experience the warmth of Bhutanese hospitality. The country’s commitment to Gross National Happiness and sustainable tourism ensures a mindful travel experience.

The Paro Tsechu Festival, held in April 2025, is a vibrant display of masked dances and spiritual ceremonies in one of the world’s happiest nations.

Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam

Best for: history buffs and foodies

Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis in southern Vietnam, is a vibrant blend of rich history, dynamic culture, and mouth-watering street food. Dive into the city’s fascinating history at the War Remnants Museum, where you can learn about the profound impact of the Vietnam War. For a deeper historical experience, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the intricate network of underground tunnels used during the war.

The city’s street food scene is legendary, offering delights like banh mi and pho that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t miss a visit to the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning Catholic cathedral built in the late 19th century, adding a touch of European charm to this vibrant city.

El Impenetrable National Park, Argentina

Best for: Eco-tourists and nature lovers.

A hidden treasure in northern Argentina, this national park is home to rare wildlife such as jaguars, anteaters, and armadillos. The dense forests and rivers provide an untouched wilderness perfect for adventurous explorers and eco-tourism enthusiasts. Guided tours offer insight into the park’s vital conservation efforts. The untouched wilderness and rare wildlife of El Impenetrable National Park can be compared to the breathtaking natural beauty and outdoor activities available at the Grand Canyon, making both destinations must-visit spots for nature lovers.

If you plan to travel here in 2025, participate in conservation workshops and tours highlighting Argentina’s commitment to preserving biodiversity. This will be an inspiring and sustainable trip for some!

Queensland’s Tropical Coast, Australia – Golden Beaches

Best for: Beachgoers and adventurers.

Queensland’s tropical coast is a playground for nature lovers with the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, and golden beaches. Snorkel among colourful coral reefs, trek through the Daintree Rainforest or relax on a secluded beach. Its year-round sunshine and biodiversity make it a top pick for adventure and relaxation.

In 2025, the Great Barrier Reef Restoration Project invites visitors to join eco-tours and learn about reef conservation. Boat tours on the outer reef make for the perfect day trip in Australia!

Travelling Trends For 2025

According to the most recent report by UN Tourism, around 790 million tourists travelled internationally in the first seven months of 2024. These figures show that travel is on the rise as many countries are starting to see pre-pandemic levels of tourists come through their borders.

Over the last year, travellers have covered all corners of the globe, seeking sustainable destinations off the beaten path. ABTA predicts a rise in long-haul holidays and the choice to go with a significant other as a continued travel trend for 2025. Keep reading for inspiration on the best places to visit this upcoming year.

Beach Getaway Hidden Gems

Bali (Indonesia) has been the top destination for several years and remains second on Tripadvisor’s Top 2024 Destinations. This small island has breathtaking views and offers pure luxury at a minimal cost. But it’s not exactly a hidden gem anymore. If you’re looking for a tropical escape, explore Nusa Lembongan, a nearby island just off the coast of Bali. You will get the same island vibes with less of a crowd.

Thailand also offers pristine beaches paired with quaint fishing villages and ancient temples. White sand, turquoise waters, and palm trees are staple features of the 1430 Thai islands.

Full Cultural Immersion

2025 is about experiencing different cultures and immersing in the country you plan to visit. Instead of ticking off sightseeing must-see lists, try living a day like a local. Visit local markets, sample street food, listen to live music and learn about the fascinating history of your chosen destination.

We suggest checking out Copenhagen (Denmark) and Stockholm (Sweden). Both offer world-class museums for history buffs, cobblestone streets to explore and delicious coffee shops—perfect for a fika! (Coffee and cake in Scandinavia).

Nature Retreats Off The Beaten Track

Nature lovers should visit smaller national parks and research lesser-known hiking trails. The USA and Canada are blessed with dramatic landscapes and incredible natural wonders. The more adventurous travellers can bypass the typical bucket list destination, like Banff National Park, opting for somewhere a little more off the beaten track, like Acadia National Park.

Scotland is another fantastic destination right on our doorstep. The Scottish Highlands are a dreamy retreat from the rest of the UK’s hustle and bustle, with beautiful beaches and a landscape that will leave you breathless.

Dreamy Cities To Travel

City breaks will always remain popular as short getaways. Discover art galleries worldwide, dine on amazing food and see all the famous landmarks. The top European cities we dream of for next year are Matera, Brussels, Rome and Oslo.

Want to get further afield? Check out Alajuela and Bogota in Latin America. These ancient cities are unusual places to visit that will open your eyes to new cultures.

UNESCO World Heritage Site Destinations

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are listed as such for a very good reason. They are utterly dreamy and will leave a lasting impression on you for years. Typically, people think of the Great Pyramids and Great Wall of China. But did you know there are many more lesser-known UNESCO World Heritage Sites? Here are just a few to add to your travel itinerary for next year:

• The Dolomites, Italy
• Luxembourg City Old Town, Luxembourg
• Škocjan Caves, Slovenia
• Khiva Old Town, Uzbekistan

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance For Your Dream Getaway

While dreaming of these incredible destinations, planning your trip carefully is essential. Unexpected events can occur, so comprehensive travel insurance is key. With Go Walkabout, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing you’re protected from the unexpected, with all your activities added to your policy. Contact us today to get a quote!

Make 2025 the year of unforgettable adventures. Which dream destination will you visit first?