Best Places To Travel In 2025

Wondering where to go in 2025? Our experts have handpicked a selection of destinations that you could consider. 

From the grandeur of Spain to the sprawling game reserves of South Africa, we’ve rounded up a diverse mix of destinations and tours for 2025. Which one of these is on your bucket list? 

1. Hawaii is always a Good Idea

Experience tropical bliss on the sun-kissed beaches of Hawaii. This stunning destination is the perfect getaway whether you’re seeking an escape from the winter chill or looking forward to a summer break far from the buzz of big cities. 

Stroll along Waikiki Beach in Oahu, take in stunning waterfalls in Maui, tour the coffee plantations of Kona on the Big Island, and experience a golden sunset off the Napali Coast on the Garden Isle, Kauai. The possibilities are endless!

Hawaii is appealing all year round, making it one of the best places to travel in 2025. Whether you’re a first-time traveler to the islands or are looking for a quick week-long escape, we have a selection of tours you will love!

2. Journey into the Wild in South Africa

For the ultimate wildlife adventure, head to the game reserves of South Africa. Try your luck spotting the Big Five in Kruger National Park, see the penguin colony on Boulders Beach, and take in the sight of thousands of birds at Birds of Eden Free Flight Sanctuary. 

Take a break from wildlife viewing to explore the breathtaking vistas of Cape Town framed by the iconic Table Mountains. Spend time in Knysna, the jewel of the Garden Route, and see prehistoric paintings at Cango Caves.

Round off your journey with a visit to the multifaceted capital, Johannesburg, and learn more about the country’s layered past.

3. Chase the Northern Lights in Iceland

Always wanted to see the Northern Lights? 2025 might be the best year in the last two decades to witness this spectacular phenomenon, thanks to peak solar activity. And Iceland is one of the best places to try your luck at experiencing this ethereal sight! On our tour to the beautiful country, you’ll get a chance to go on a Northern Lights pursuit from Reykjavik.

4. Bask in the sun in Southern Spain

There are many reasons to visit Spain—rich culture, warm weather and great food, not necessarily in that order! A trip to the sun-drenched Andalusian region comes highly recommended. Experience the staggering beauty of Alhambra, framed by the Sierra Nevada Mountains in Granada, or soak in the magic of Seville, the birthplace of Flamenco.

No trip to Spain is complete without savoring the best paella of your lives in Valencia! Need another reason to visit Spain in 2025? The iconic Sagrada Familia, designed by Antonio Gaudi, the famous Catalan architect in Barcelona, is nearing completion after almost 143 years! 

The largest “unfinished” Catholic church in the world is set to be fully complete by 2026, and it’s a good idea to beat the crowds and see the grand structure for yourself in 2025. Sounds like a plan? See our Best of Southern Spain tour here.

5. Go on an iconic road trip

As far as road trips go, few can beat the 2,400-mile long Route 66, all the way from Chicago to Santa Monica. Spanning eight states and three time zones, this road trip is definitely one for the books.

In 2026, the iconic road will celebrate its 100th anniversary, and the excitement has already started building up! Cities along the route such as Albuquerque, St. Louis, Amarillo, Texas and more will be hosting a series of events in 2025 to commemorate the centenary, plus you can look forward to some new attractions. It’s the perfect time to plan your trip. 

And as a bonus, if you’re joining us in September or October 2025, you’ll also get a chance to attend the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, the world’s largest balloon festival! 

6. Celebrate 750 years of Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most welcoming European cities, and offers up a diverse mix of experiences. The canal-laced city has always had a vibrant art scene, with museums and galleries filled with works of Van Gogh and Rembrandt, among others.

If the city is on your bucket list, here’s another compelling reason to plan your 2025 vacation. Amsterdam celebrates its 750th birthday in 2025, and the city sure does know how to throw a good party!

The year-long celebration kicks off this October and picks up pace in 2025 with spectacular concerts, free tours, plus the tenth edition of the wildly successful maritime event, Sail Amsterdam. It’s going to be fun!

Join any of our cruise or land tours to Amsterdam in 2025 – Grand European Cruise or Norwegian Fjords Explorer for a chance to enjoy the city’s epic birthday celebrations!

7. Explore our National Parks

Discover America’s great outdoors on one of our National Park tours in 2025. Our top pick would be the Crimson Canyons & Mesas National Parks tour, as it gives you the opportunity to visit six stunning national parks! How amazing is that!

Catch a glorious sunset at the Grand Canyon, gaze in awe at the sandstone monoliths at Bryce Canyon, and take in sweeping views of Horseshoe Bend and the Colorado River. We’ve also got some exciting optional add-on excursions that you can book, from sunset tours to dinner cruises. How about checking some National Parks off your bucket list in 2025?

8. Enjoy a relaxing Mediterranean cruise

What does an idyllic vacation look like to you? If it involves sailing along the Mediterranean Coast, as you stop to discover pristine islands and medieval towns, you will love our Italy & Northern Mediterranean Coast tour!

With a chance to explore five of Europe’s most beautiful countries – Italy, Greece, Slovenia, Montenegro and Croatia – this cruise tour promises to be a sensory treat! See all the popular sights on engaging city tours, relax on the picture-perfect Greek island of Corfu, and uncover the hidden gems of Kotor (Montenegro) and Koper (Slovenia).

Plan your 2025 trip with YMT Vacations

Wondering where to travel in 2025? No matter what’s on your mind, reach out to us, and our travel consultants will help you choose the right tour for you. With expert Tour Directors, engaging itineraries and affordable experiences, our trips are a fun way to see the world! Call us today, and let’s get started on planning your 2025 vacation.