25 bucket list destinations to visit in 2025

All eyes might have been on Paris this past year due to the Olympics and the re-opening of Notre Dame. However, France’s second-largest city is fantastic, with just a bit friendlier locals than the capital. Located right along the Mediterranean, you’ll have your share of amazing seafood and aren’t far from the stunning Calanques National Park.

If you’re a history or archeology (or both) nerd, then Egypt has probably been on your list for a while. Of course, you’ll likely fly into Cairo, but after that, the next place should be Luxor. The entire city and surrounding area are open-air museums full of historical wonders.

If you’ve ever typed “Canada” into an image search, it’s very likely Lake Louise or Banff, both located in the province of Alberta, have come up. Banff and Jasper National Parks are an outdoor lovers' dream and what comes to mind when people imagine a stereotypical Canadian trip.

These French islands are semi-autonomous overseas regions of France. Visitors will enjoy a mash-up of cultures, such as French road signs and bakeries, all on tropical islands. The big pull here is nature. Visit between May and October for the best snorkeling conditions and between July and November for whale-watching.

One of Mexico’s culinary capitals, there’s never a bad time to visit Oaxaca. In February, Carnaval celebrations are in full swing, and then in July, there are two big local celebrations, the Guelaguetza Folk Festival and the Oaxaca Mezcal Festival. Finally, the big party comes near the end of the year in early November when Dia los Muertos ("Day of the Dead") attracts visitors from around the world.

Bangkok and Chiang Mai might be the easiest destinations for international visitors, but please make time to hit the islands. Koh Samui, Koh Tao, and Koh Pha Ngan are all tropical paradises!

Most visitors to the Emerald Isle prioritize Dublin, Galway, and if they rent a car, maybe the Ring of Kerry or parts of Clare. Fewer get around to the hidden corner that is West Cork. A bit secluded from the rest of the country, the wild coast and adorable towns are a great place to explore. 

Patagonia is actually a massive area that spans Argentina and Chile. You’ll likely need to budget at least a few weeks for an adventure down here, especially if you want to do a few overnight hikes or extensive camping.

This tiny microstate between France and Spain is completely underrated. Located in the Pyrenées, the mountain offerings are amazing. Come ski in winter or hike in summer and enjoy a mashup of French, Catalan, and Spanish linguistic interactions.

Tunis' coastal feel is completed by whitewashed buildings with blue accents. Other amazing stops in the country include Hammamet (a fishing town turned resort area), Sidi Bou Said, and Djerba.

Dalmatia (where Dubrovnik and Split are located) draws so many visitors it can be unpleasant. However, a lesser-known peninsula near Italy, Istria provides a much less crowded and more chilled experience. The area also has much more unique cuisine than the rest of the country, as it has unique olive oil, wines, and top-quality truffles.

The jumping-off point for those looking to hike Machu Picchu, this lovely mountainous city is worth a few day’s stop. Go cafe-hopping and learn about the Incan Empire, who used to use the town as their capital.

The Austrian Alps aren’t always on international visitors’ minds, but they can feel less touristy than resorts in French or Swiss towns. Ski in winter or hike in summer, and make sure to try Käsespätzle (essentially Austrian mac n’ cheese).

It’s hard to pinpoint one destination as this beautiful place to visit. Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, is the cultural center, while more adventurous visitors might want to book a multi-night horse trek.

Sydney is Australia’s best-known city, but if you’re planning to head down under, you might as well make the most of it and road-trip the coast. Worthwhile stops include scenic Coffs Harbour, Byron Bay, relaxed Noosa, and Brisbane.

Northern Vietnam is a bit different from what most travelers envision, which is usually beaches with electric blue water. However, for a different experience, Sapa and the mountainous hikes it provides are a wonderful option.

Morocco has long been at the top of many travelers’ bucket lists, however, many stick to Marrakech, Casablanca, and maybe Tangier (if they’re coming from Spain.) If you’re in the mood for something more chilled out and coastal, the beach town of Essaouira is fantastic!

Norway is already cold, but if you can stomach even more frigid temperatures, head north. The beautiful seclusion is perfect for travelers who want to avoid crowds. Catch the northern lights in winter and the midnight sun in summer!

Up for an adventure in 2025? Head to the coast of Namibia, specifically the stretch of the Kunene and Swakop Rivers. Named for the carcasses and shipwrecks that frequently wash ashore, it’s a sight unlike any other.

In recent years, Georgia has become a digital nomad hub and popular travel destination. However, fewer visitors make it to the wine regions. Both the Kakheti and Imereti regions will delight wine enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike!

Bhutan has previously been a bit more difficult, or rather, an expensive destination to visit. That’s due to the hefty Sustainable Development Fee it charges all tourists. Previously, this fee was $200 a day, currently, it has been reduced to $100, but there are talks of it increasing, so go now. Enjoy hikes in the Himalayas, a unique culture, and a country more concerned with their Gross National Happiness than their GDP.

This Danish territory is perfect for travelers looking to get off the beaten path. The weather is never guaranteed to be amazing, but every inch is green, and it’s perfect for those who love long countryside walks and quaint fishing villages.

Something a bit different from the safari and coastal focuses of many destinations on the continent. Come hike with gorillas, visit crater lakes, and indulge in luxury lodges!

The largest state in Oz (no, it’s not just a general geographic region), WA is a world apart from the already unique rest of the continent. There’s modern Perth, then pink and blue lakes, the beautiful wine country of the Margaret River, and the Coral Coast.

Come for a bit of tropical heat, and stay for amazing coffee and street food! Malaysia’s capital is also an art hub, and there’s something for everyone.