Hottest 25 Travel Destinations For 2025

New year, new adventures. If you’re looking for your 2025 holiday spot, you’ve come to the right place. Our Holiday Experts have rounded up the best travel destinations across the globe, from popular icons to off-the-beaten-path gems.

1. Indonesia

Indonesia has long been a favourite amongst Australian travellers, with the ABS recording 1.5 million trips in the 12 months to June 2024. There’s no denying the allure of Bali, which spoils with luxe villa accommodations and an array of sun-soaked experiences. However, more and more holidaymakers are venturing beyond Bali, with Skyscanner reporting a spike in searches to both Labuan Bajo and Yogyakarta.

2. Vanuatu

A convenient two-hour flight from Australia’s east coast, Vanuatu offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Think mornings spent chasing waterfalls, climbing volcanoes and diving into blue holes, before chilling poolside in the afternoon. Vanuatu has been named Top 10 in Lonely Planet’s 2025 Best in Travel list, so book your trip now, before the crowds arrive!

3. Japan

Thanks to favourable exchange rates and affordable travel options, Japan has skyrocketed in popularity, becoming Australia’s fourth most popular destination. From the skyscrapers of Tokyo to the temples of Kyoto, the Land of the Rising Sun offers an electrifying mix of old and new experiences. Consider a cruise or touring holiday to explore more of Japan in a single trip.

Colorful beach lounge area with umbrellas and bean bags at sunset.
People in an infinity pool watching a sunset between palm trees.
Person in traditional Balinese dress and headdress holding a decorative fan, against a backdrop of greenery and stone carvings.
A monkey sitting atop mossy stone sculptures in a lush forest.
Three individuals paddling a canoe in clear turquoise water with lush greenery in the background.
People swimming in a clear blue lagoon surrounded by lush green trees.
Two people on a yellow boat cruising on a calm, blue river surrounded by lush greenery.
A bustling city street at night lined with brightly lit signboards and crowded with people.
Cityscape at twilight with mountain backdrop and water in foreground.
Boats on a river with blooming cherry blossoms lining the banks in a cityscape.

4. Thailand

With beautiful beaches, friendly locals and delicious cuisine, a holiday to the Land of Smiles is always a good idea. Looking for an alternative to the busier Thai hotspots, like Phuket and Koh Samui? Skyscanner have reported a 141% increase in searches to Krabi, a beachside paradise offering easy access to Railay Beach and the Phi Phi Islands.

5. Norway

Witnessing the magic of the northern lights was the top-searched global experience on Google in 2024. If you’re amongst those who want to experience this celestial phenomenon in 2025, set your sights on a Norway cruise, where days are spent sailing through misty fjords and exploring colourful villages, and nights are spent chasing the ethereal glow of the aurora borealis. Optimise your chances by choosing an itinerary that stops in Tromsø, often regarded as one of the best places to see the northern lights.

6. Cook Islands

If you’re seeking a holiday that combines relaxation, adventure and postcard-worthy scenes, make the Cook Islands your 2025 travel destination. The Cook Islands are fast becoming the South Pacific’s ultimate holiday hotspot, thanks to Jetstar’s direct flight routes from Sydney to Rarotonga. Make sure to hop over to the neighbouring island of Aitutaki, home to what many claim is the world’s most beautiful lagoon.

A traditional long-tail boat on a sandy beach with towering limestone cliffs and clear blue skies in the background.
Thailand skyline with statue and temple and to air balloons
Bright lights of Thailand in main city
Aurora borealis over a snowy mountainous landscape with a lit coastal village.
View from an airplane window showing wingtip and engine over stunning blue ocean and atolls.
Two paddleboards on a white sandy beach with turquoise water under a blue sky.

7. New Zealand

As our next door neighbour, it’s unsurprising that New Zealand is Australia’s second most popular holiday destination with 1.3 million trips recorded in the 12 months to June 2024. Cross the ditch in 2025 to cruise the majestic fjords of Milford Sound, marvel at the mountainscapes of the Southern Alps, learn about Maori Culture and enjoy a taste of city life in Auckland.

8.Vietnam

Vietnam is becoming more and more popular amongst Aussie travellers, with ABS data ranking it as the tenth most visited destination. And it’s no wonder why – Vietnam delights with otherworldly landscapes, storied history and culture and zingy fresh cuisine. To experience the best that Vietnam has to offer, consider a resort stay in the UNESCO-listed city of Hoi An or travel the country from top to bottom on a guided tour.

9. Greece

With their powder-white buildings, bright bougainvillea blooms and cobalt blue waters, the Greek Islands appear straight out a postcard, so it’s no surprise that they top many traveller’s bucket lists. The best way to island hop Greece is on a cruise holiday, allowing you to hit up the hotspots of Santorini and Mykonos, along with lesser-visited destinations, such as Corfu and Rhodes.

A shirtless man with tattoos speaking with a woman in a green jacket outdoors.
Three people on a boat admiring a scenic fjord with towering mountains.
Cruise ship in a majestic fjord with steep cliffs and a waterfall.
Colorful riverside buildings with a person rowing a small boat under a clear blue sky.
A person in a white dress surrounded by colorful, illuminated lanterns in a festive setting.
Aerial view of a crowded beach with colorful towels and people swimming in clear blue water.
White buildings with blue domes in Santorini, Greece, overlooking the Aegean Sea.
A quaint cobblestone street with white buildings, blooming pink flowers, and a cat resting in a Greek village.

10. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is another up and coming travel destination, attracting visitors with its unspoiled beaches, vast nature reserves, centuries-old temples and tranquil tea plantations. There’s so much to see and do here, making a private tour with My Holiday the perfect way to explore. Tailor your holiday to your personal travel preferences, with distinct tour options focusing on wildlife, history and culture.

11. United States

The United States has always been a popular holiday spot, with 36% more Australians visiting in 2024. As one of the largest and most diverse countries on the planet, you’ll never run out of ways to holiday in the United States – even if you’ve visited before. In 2025, explore the iconic cities of Los Angeles and New York, cruise the extraordinary landscapes of Alaska or relax with a resort stay in Hawaii.

12. South Korea

The number of Australian visitors to South Korea has increased by almost a third in recent years, a rise in popularity that can be attributed to its distinct culture, foodie scene and K-pop and K-beauty trends. Get the most out of your South Korea experience by joining a tour that spends some time in the bustling cities of Seoul and Busan, as well as the tropic Jeju Island, Korea’s answer to Hawaii.

Leopard resting on a log, gazing forward, partially obscured by foliage.
A giant golden Buddha statue at sunset with a temple in the background.
A yellow taxi drives by bright theater billboards at night in a bustling city area.
Palm trees in the foreground with the Hollywood sign on a hill in the distance.
Traditional Korean palace with a ceremonial procession under a blue sky with clouds.

13. Fiji

If you’re seeking a flop and drop holiday in 2025, look no further than Fiji. You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to resort options here, each offering exquisite dining, sparkling swimming pools, relaxing spa spaces and immersive cultural experiences. Fiji is particularly famous for its world-renowned childcare services, making it a great choice for families. Plus, the short flight time makes it an obvious choice for Australian travellers.

14. China

Travelling to China is now easier than ever, with Australian passport holders granted visa-free entry for visits of up to 15 days. More and more people are choosing to visit China on a touring holiday, as it offers a chance to pack multiple bucket list moments in a single itinerary. Walk the Great Wall, embark on a Yangtze River cruise, get up close to giant pandas or experience the magic of Shanghai Disneyland – our tours offer it all.

15. Italy

Land of pizza, pasta and gelato, what’s not to love about Italy? This timeless European destination has something to suit every traveller, whether you’re interested in art and architecture, natural scenery, or food and wine. Many of Italy’s most iconic destinations are located near the coast, so why not explore them in 2025 on a cruise holiday?

People swimming and boarding a boat in a clear blue tropical sea, with hills in the background.
Family with two children walking through shallow water at the beach on a sunny day.
The Great Wall of China under a starry night sky.
Colorful dragon sculpture at a traditional Chinese celebration with temple in background.
Two people riding a red scooter on a rural path by an olive tree and stone building.
Trevi Fountain in Rome, with sculptures, clear blue waters, and surrounding architecture.
Two glasses of Aperol Spritz with a deli sandwich on a wooden board at an outdoor café.

16. Maldives

Those craving a luxury holiday in 2025 can’t go past the Maldives. Where else can you stay on a five-star private island resort, in an overwater villa offering direct access to calm lagoon waters brimming with vibrant marine life? Pair that with all-inclusive food and drink offerings, decadent day spas and sprawling infinity pools, and we won’t blame you if you never want to leave!

17. Singapore

Singapore is so much more than just a layover destination. Enjoyed an extended stop here in 2025 to explore iconic landmarks like Gardens by the Bay and Marina Bay Sands, eat like a local at the hawker markets and learn about its rich cultural heritage in Chinatown and Little India. Singapore is also fast becoming a family favourite destination – the lively resort hangout of Sentosa Island is home to beaches, theme parks, animal encounters, golf courses and so much more.

18. South Africa

Travel from Australia to South Africa has been increasing over the last year and it’s no wonder why, with Google reporting a 20% increase in searches for African safaris. South Africa is home to 19 national parks and several more private game reserves, giving you ample opportunity to spot the African Big Five, including elephants, leopards, buffaloes, rhinos and lions.

Overwater bungalows against a sunset sky with vibrant pink and blue hues.
A snorkeler underwater with colorful fish and coral, split view of island above water.
Woman in a white hat and dress sitting on a sunny beach with clear blue sky.
Aerial view of Singapore's skyline with Marina Bay Sands and the Esplanade.
Merlion statue spouting water with Singapore skyline in the background.
Person in a safari hat looking at elephants in the distance on a savanna.
An elephant and zebras by a waterhole, with wildebeest in the background on a savanna.

19. Samoa

For a culture-filled holiday in 2025, book a trip to Samoa. Life here remains relatively unchanged by modernity, with locals living by fa’a Samoa – the ‘Samoan way’ – in traditional villages governed by chiefs. Meanwhile, nature lovers will appreciate Samoa’s unique natural attractions, such as the To-Sua Ocean Trench, Alofaaga Blowholes, Saleaula Lava Field and Papase’ea Sliding Rocks.

20. United Kingdom

Home to charming cities and towns, surprising natural delights and more iconic landmarks than we can count, it’s no surprise that the United Kingdom ranks as Australia’s fifth most travelled destination. If you’re looking to explore beyond London in 2025, opt for a guided tour holiday that takes you to all the highlights, like Stonehenge, Liverpool Edinburgh and Loch Ness.

21. Malaysia

Looking to visit Southeast Asia in 2025, but unsure which destination to choose? On a holiday to Malaysia, you’ll get a taste of everything this region has to offer – dynamic cities, postcard-worthy beaches, flavourful cuisines, emerald landscapes and exotic wildlife. Whether your kind of holiday involves relaxing at a beachfront resort or exploring in-depth on a guided tour, Malaysia has something for everyone.

Aerial view of sailboats on clear turquoise waters near a tropical reef and island.
Woman in red bikini sitting by a crystal clear blue water pool surrounded by lush greenery.
Stonehenge at sunset with blue sky and clouds in the background.
Red double-decker buses on a London street with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in the background.
Woman in red dress and hat facing a vibrant temple with hanging lanterns under a dramatic sky.
Person cooking with multiple clay pots on open flames at a street food market.
A boat on a tranquil river with lush green mountains under a clear blue sky.

22. Spain

Striking architecture, sublime cuisine and sun-drenched beaches all await in Spain. Dive into full Spanish splendour on a cruise holiday, allowing you to hit the Gaudi trail in Barcelona, sample tapas in Seville, sail to secret coves in Majorca and sip cocktails in Ibiza. Or join a tour to Spain and neighbouring Portugal to delve deeper into the sights, sounds and tastes of the Iberian Peninsula.

23. Palau

Visited the most popular Pacific Islands and looking for somewhere new to explore? Add Palau to your travel radar. Recognised by Lonely Planet as an up and coming destination, Palau is particularly known for its underwater adventures. For the best snorkelling and diving in Palau, join an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock Islands, where you can get up close to 1300 species of reef fish, 500 coral species and 17 species of shark.

24. Antarctica

Travel to the frozen continent is more accessible than you may think, thanks to a rise in expedition cruising. In fact, Google have reported a 38% increase in searches for Antarctic cruises! So much more than your standard cruise, prepare to sail amongst spectacular frozen landscapes and get up close to penguin colonies, while engaging in onboard lecture series and real-time scientific research, led by a team of expedition experts.

View of colorful mosaic benches at Park Güell with cityscape in the background.
Person holding a glass of sangria with a slice of orange, next to a red fan.
Split-view of a snorkeler underwater and a tropical islet above water.
Aerial view of lush green islands surrounded by turquoise waters.
A serene pink sunset over a snowy mountain range with calm waters in the foreground.
Emperor penguins with chicks on icy Antarctic terrain reflected in water.
People in a zodiac boat navigating between large icebergs in a polar region.

25. World Cruise

Want to explore the entire globe? There’s no better way than on a world cruise. Explorations by Norwegian is reimagining the way you explore the world, with its innovative cruising concept that combine the best of ocean, river and expedition cruising. Their year-round, 371-day world journey visits over 220 ports across 64 countries and six continents, allowing you to discover both world renowned sights and hidden gems.

The Parthenon temple on the Acropolis of Athens at sunset with pink-hued skies.
Eiffel Tower on a sunny day with blue skies and trees along the Seine River.
Sunset over Tower Bridge in London with a red bus crossing and the Shard in the background.
A bustling beach with turquoise water, sunbathers, umbrellas, and boats.
Aerial view of a majestic hilltop church with a central Jesus statue at sunset.
Two people on camels in front of the Great Pyramids of Giza under a clear blue sky.
The Trevi Fountain in Rome at sunset with vibrant skies and no visible people.

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