Source: UN Tourism Barometer – May 2025
Global tourism in 2025 has rebounded faster than predicted, with millions of travellers eager to explore both iconic cities and under-the-radar escapes. From the ancient streets of Kyoto to the wild coasts of Morocco and the high-tech pulse of Seoul, this year’s trending destinations reflect a shift toward cultural depth, seasonal savvy, and better value for money.
Whether you’re a casual holidaymaker or a travel brand looking for market insights, this curated list highlights the places seeing the biggest growth in interest, flights, and footfall.
Based on up-to-date data from the UN Tourism Barometer and global travel platforms, we’ve broken down the 10 fastest-rising regions, why they’re booming, what to know before you go – and where to find the best deals.
Let’s dive into the hotspots driving global wanderlust in 2025.
- 1. Asia–Pacific (Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam)
- 2. Africa (Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, South Africa)
- 3. Southern Europe & Mediterranean (Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia)
- 4. Latin America (Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru)
- 5. Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Qatar)
- 6. Classic European City‑Breaks (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Istanbul)
- 7. USA Domestic Travel (Vegas, Miami, Orlando, NYC)
- 8. South Korea (Seoul, Busan, Jeju)
- 9. Greenland (Nuuk, Ilulissat)
- 10. “Hidden Europe” (Bulgaria, Albania)
- Flight Price Estimates – Round‑Trip Economy
- Final Thoughts
1. Asia–Pacific (Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam)
Trend insight: Asia–Pacific saw a spectacular 12% increase in international arrivals in Q1 2025, reaching around 92% of its pre‑pandemic levels; North‑East Asia spiked 23% year over year .
Why it’s surging
Post‑COVID bounceback, plus generous new flight routes (e.g., UK–Seoul), and affordability from currency shifts.
What to know
- Japan revenue jumped 34%; best booked during spring (cherry blossoms) or autumn for fewer crowds (baeventures.com).
- Buy Japan Rail Pass online before departure to access cheaper digital fares.
- Use budget carriers (Peach, VietJet, Scoot) for intra‑region travel.
2. Africa (Morocco, Egypt, Kenya, South Africa)
Trend insight: Africa posted a 9% growth in arrivals in Q1 2025—16% above pre‑COVID numbers—outpacing Europe and the Americas .
Why it’s surging
Expanded visa‑free agreements, improved regional connectivity, and growth in eco‑luxury safari products.
What to know
- Morocco recorded ~17.4 million tourists in 2024, up 20% from the previous year (reuters.com).
- Kenya applied visas waiver for African visitors in late 2023
- Book safari lodges and park permits early, and check vaccination requirements.
3. Southern Europe & Mediterranean (Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia)
Trend insight: Southern/Eastern Europe grew 8% in Q1 2025, ahead of Northern hubs; Spain, Portugal, Greece all posted 2–4% growth (live.worldtourismforum.net).
Why it’s surging
Off-season travel, boutique hotel expansion, and stable euro plus affordability.
What to know
- Spain’s tourist spending grew 9% by Q1 (travelradar.aero).
- Visit shoulder seasons (May or October) to avoid crowds. Respect local etiquette (e.g. no-tourist zones in Barcelona).
4. Latin America (Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Peru)
Trend insight: South America enjoyed a 13% spike in arrivals in Q1 2025, outperforming the regional average .
Why it’s surging
New non‑stop flights from US/UK, strong USD, and momentum in experiential travel (treks, wine, culture).
What to know
- Patagonia treks and Atacama tours are best booked early.
- Cancun/Playa del Carmen sees frequent flight sales, often $600–900 return from UK (via Madrid/Miami).
5. Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Qatar)
Trend insight: Middle East arrivals remain 44% above 2019—an outstanding recovery .
Why it’s surging
Massive investment (festivals, museums, resorts), relaxed visa policies, and new flight connections.
What to know
- Travel from October to April to avoid extreme heat.
- Respect local customs; modest clothing required in non-resort areas.
6. Classic European City‑Breaks (London, Paris, Amsterdam, Istanbul)
Trend insight: These remain top Google and Skyscanner search targets for UK, EU, and US travelers (thetimes.co.uk).
Why it’s surging
Perfect for 3–5 day getaways: compact, culturally rich, easy to reach via budget air and rail.
What to know
- Book landmark entry tickets (Eiffel Tower, Anne Frank) early.
- Explore by foot or bike to enjoy local flavor.
7. USA Domestic Travel (Vegas, Miami, Orlando, NYC)
Trend insight: Domestic leisure travel remains robust; U.S. tourism revenue rose 3% in Q1 .
Why it’s surging
New attractions (Vegas Sphere, Orlando Epic Universe), and strong local travel despite weak inbound.
What to know
- Vegas round‑trip from West Coast can dip under $250 USD if booked off‑peak.
- Consider mid‑week flights and bundle rental cars for Florida trips.
8. South Korea (Seoul, Busan, Jeju)
Trend insight: Republic of Korea arrivals rose ~14% in Q1; Seoul is projected to hit record tourism (ttgasia.com).
Why it’s surging
K‑culture boom (K‑pop/K‑drama), weakened won, visa‑free travel for Brits, and new UK–Seoul flights by Virgin Atlantic.
What to know
- Best travel seasons: spring and autumn.
- Use T‑Money transit cards and download Naver/KakaoMap (Google Maps unreliable).
9. Greenland (Nuuk, Ilulissat)
Trend insight: New flights (e.g. Newark–Nuuk direct from June 2025) fueled interest in Arctic travel .
Why it’s surging
Bucket‑list destination for glaciers, sledding, and Arctic culture.
What to know
- Summer (June–August) offers best daylight and weather.
- Advance booking is a must—flights are limited.
10. “Hidden Europe” (Bulgaria, Albania)
Trend insight: Search interest rising as travelers seek affordable, less crowded European escapes .
Why it’s surging
Low costs, stunning landscapes, growing digital nomad appeal.
What to know
- Budget flights from UK typically £60–£130 return.
- Drivers should pack portable Wi‑Fi or offline maps due to limited signage; bottle-filtered water recommended.
Flight Price Estimates – Round‑Trip Economy
| Origin | Asia–Pac | Africa | Southern Europe | Latin America | Middle East |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| US East Coast | $900–1,200 | $800–1,100 | $500–700 | $600–900 | $900–1,300 |
| US West Coast | $1,200–1,600 | $900–1,400 | $600–900 | $700–1,200 | $1,000–1,500 |
| London | £600–800 | £500–700 | £50–180 | £600–900 | £400–600 |
| Manchester | £650–850 | £550–750 | £60–200 | £650–950 | £450–650 |
| Sydney | AUD 1,500–2,200 | AUD 1,300–1,800 | AUD 800–1,200 | AUD 1,300–1,800 | AUD 900–1,400 |
**These are ballpark figures, please use Google Flights, or Skyscanner for a more accurate estimate
Final Thoughts
The travel landscape in 2025 is being shaped by a new wave of priorities: affordability, authenticity, and meaningful experiences. As travellers move away from the overdone and overbooked, these rising destinations offer a glimpse into where global curiosity is heading next.
Whether you’re planning a personal adventure or building a business in the travel space, staying ahead of these trends means paying attention not just to where people can go — but where they want to.
This year, opportunity lies in the places that are quietly gaining momentum, resonating with travellers who value depth, connection, and discovery.