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Top Tourist Destinations in the World for 2025

Travel in 2025 is expected to bring fresh opportunities for discovery, as international tourism continues to grow and more destinations highlight sustainability and cultural exchange. Whether drawn to ancient cities with deep history, capital cities filled with world-class museums, or natural wonders that showcase dramatic landscapes, travelers have no shortage of choices.

This list brings together some of the top tourist destinations in the world for 2025, spanning every continent and offering something for every type of traveler. From popular landmarks to quiet escapes, these places stand out for their ability to inspire, connect, and create lasting memories.

What Makes a Great Tourist Destination?

The best destinations for 2025 combine more than just landmarks or scenery. They balance cultural depth, accessibility, and experiences that appeal to international tourists with different interests and travel styles.

Key factors that make a destination stand out:

  • Rich history and cultural heritage: If you enjoy stepping back in time, think of ancient cities, historic buildings, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites that bring history to life.
  • Natural wonders: For nature lovers, there’s no shortage of dramatic landscapes, coral reefs, and national parks that let you explore the wild side of a destination.
  • Urban appeal: Maybe you’re drawn to the buzz of city life—cosmopolitan cities with world-class museums, art galleries, and fine dining, which keep things exciting.
  • Accessibility and comfort: Getting there and staying there matter too, so we’ve kept in mind destinations with well-connected airports, visitor centers, and a range of stays from boutique hotels to luxury resorts.
  • Sustainable tourism: More places are now investing in green spaces, conservation, and local initiatives, giving you the chance to enjoy your trip while also supporting the community.

1. Paris, France

Paris, France

Paris remains one of the top tourist destinations in the world for 2025, combining world-class art, historic architecture, and a café culture that continues to charm visitors. Beyond its landmarks, it’s a city where simple pleasures, like walking along the Seine, sitting in a garden, or sipping coffee on a quiet square, feel just as memorable as visiting its most famous sites.

For international tourists, Paris offers layers of history and modern life within a walkable city center. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to contemporary arts scenes, it’s a place where every neighborhood brings its own flavor, making it as rewarding for a first visit as it is for a return trip.

Top Things To Do in Paris

  • Enjoy the sweeping city views: The Eiffel Tower offers views from the top that stretch across the city. Come back in the evening when the tower sparkles every hour, lighting up Paris nights.
  • See landmarks from the water: A boat trip is one of the best ways to take in the city’s landmarks. Float past the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and charming bridges, with many cruises offering dinner on board as the lights of Paris reflect on the water.
  • Explore one of the world’s great art collections: Home to one of the largest art collections in the world, the Louvre can feel overwhelming. Focus on highlights like the Mona Lisa, ancient Egyptian treasures, and Renaissance masterpieces for a more relaxed visit.
  • Discover a bohemian hillside neighborhood: Famous for its bohemian spirit, the Montmartre neighborhood charms with winding streets, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and artists painting in Place du Tertre. It’s like discovering a whole different side of Paris.

Best Places To Stay in Paris

  • For budget-conscious travelers: Hotel Henriette is hidden on a quiet street near the Latin Quarter and has individually designed rooms from about $203-$436 per night. With a courtyard garden and walkable access to Notre-Dame, it offers good value with plenty of charm.
  • For mid-range comfort: Hôtel des Grands Boulevards sits between Montmartre and the Seine, with rates from $304-$827 per night. The hotel combines a central location with a rooftop bar and stylish interiors, making it a balanced choice for sightseeing and downtime.
  • For a premium stay: Le Meurice, overlooking the Tuileries Gardens, is just steps from the Louvre. Rooms begin around $1,824-$2,730 per night, offering elegant interiors, butler service, and Michelin-starred dining. It’s long been one of the city’s most storied hotels.

What To Know Before Visiting Paris

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) are the most pleasant times to visit, with mild weather and manageable crowds. The metro is fast and affordable, but many highlights are within walking distance, so bring comfortable shoes. Most museums close one day a week (often Monday or Tuesday), so checking schedules in advance can help maximize your time.

Aerial view of Paris, France with the Eiffel Tower rising above the city's iconic Haussmann architecture, the Seine River winding through the center, and a bustling Parisian street scene in the foreground.

2. Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy

Rome is a city where a blend of past and present collide, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the world for 2025. From the Colosseum to piazzas filled with locals, the capital city offers layers of cultural history that few places can match. Meals linger in trattorias, fountains sparkle at night, and historic buildings anchor every neighborhood.

For international tourists, Rome feels both like a museum and a living city. Visitors can spend mornings touring ancient ruins, afternoons in world-class museums, and evenings enjoying pasta in a lively square. It’s a destination that rewards both careful planning and simple wandering.

Top Things To Do in Rome

  • Step inside a world of ancient battles: The Colosseum offers tours that show where gladiators once fought and crowds once gathered. Some visits even include access to the underground chambers for a closer look at its engineering.
  • Explore the Vatican City: St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel are two landmarks of Renaissance art and religious history. Skip-the-line tickets help avoid long waits, especially in peak season.
  • Take a guided tour: The Roman Forum gives a glimpse into how politics and society worked in ancient Rome. A guided tour adds stories that bring the remains to life.
  • Toss a coin: Trevi Fountain is tied to the tradition of coin-throwing. Visiting early in the morning or late in the evening makes for a quieter stop.
  • Take a break in a lively square: Piazza Navona is filled with fountains, cafés, and street artists, offering an easy place to pause and enjoy the atmosphere.

Best Places To Stay in Rome

  • For budget-friendly travelersHotel De’ Ricci, near Campo de’ Fiori, offers stylish but affordable rooms starting at $517-$1,345 per night. Its intimate size and central location make it ideal for exploring the historic city on foot.
  • For mid-range comfort: [Albergo del Senato, directly beside the Pantheon, provides rooms with unbeatable views starting from $215-$974 per night. Guests enjoy the rooftop terrace, where evenings feel like a private view of Rome’s history.
  • For luxury travelers: Hotel de Russie, a 5-star retreat near Piazza del Popolo, combines historic elegance with modern comfort. Rates start around $1,939-$3,668 per night, with terraced gardens, a spa, and one of Rome’s most celebrated restaurants.

What To Know Before Visiting Rome

The best times to visit are April through June and September through October, when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller. Much of the city center is walkable, though buses and the metro are useful for reaching further neighborhoods. Churches and Vatican sites require modest dress, so plan to cover shoulders and knees.

Stunning panoramic view of Rome, Italy, featuring the city’s iconic domes, historic churches, and ancient rooftops. The Altare della Patria monument stands majestically in the background, highlighting the rich architectural and cultural heritage of the Eternal City.

3. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is often called the heart of traditional Japan, where temples, gardens, and historic buildings preserve the country’s cultural history. Once the imperial capital, it remains a city of wooden townhouses, peaceful shrines, and quiet streets that contrast with Tokyo’s modern skyline. For many international tourists, Kyoto offers a chance to experience Japan’s past in the present.

What makes Kyoto stand out is its balance of heritage and everyday life. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites to seasonal highlights like cherry blossoms in spring and fiery foliage in autumn, the city is shaped by its connection to nature. Tea houses, markets, and arts scenes add depth to a visit that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Top Things To Do in Kyoto

  • See the Golden Pavilion: Kinkaku-ji is a Zen temple covered in gold leaf that reflects in the surrounding pond. Arriving early helps avoid larger tour groups.
  • Hike through a mountain path of gates: Fushimi Inari Shrine is known for its thousands of vermilion torii gates that lead up a forested slope. Even walking part of the trail gives views over Kyoto.
  • Walk through a path of tall bamboo: The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a well-known spot often paired with nearby Tenryu-ji Temple and a riverside walk.
  • Experience a traditional district at night: Gion is known for its geisha culture, lantern-lit alleys, and dining spots that are most lively in the evening.
  • See the former home of shoguns: Nijo Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with decorated interiors and landscaped gardens.

Best Places To Stay in Kyoto

  • For budget-friendly travelersGuest House Kioto, close to Kyoto Station, has Japanese-style tatami rooms starting at $56-$123 per night. The communal kitchen and social atmosphere make it a welcoming choice for budget travelers.
  • For mid-range comfort: Hotel Kanra Kyoto combines modern design with traditional elements like sliding doors and soaking tubs. Rooms range from $248-$632 per night, and its central location makes it easy to reach major temples.
  • For luxury travelers: The Ritz-Carlton Kyoto sits along the Kamogawa River with views of the Higashiyama Mountains. Rooms start around $955-$2,262 per night, offering fine dining, curated art displays, and spa treatments inspired by Japanese rituals.

What To Know Before Visiting Kyoto

Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are the most popular times for visiting, thanks to seasonal landscapes. The city’s bus and train network is reliable, though many temples require short walks from the nearest stops. At shrines and temples, follow etiquette: keep voices low, remove shoes where requested, and dress modestly.

Beautiful view of Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Kyoto, Japan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The iconic red wooden Phoenix Hall with its elegant curved roof and arched bridge reflects perfectly in the tranquil pond, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Japanese gardens.

4. New York City, USA

New York City, USA

New York City is a destination that always feels alive, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the world for 2025. With its world-class museums, dramatic skyline, and neighborhoods that each have their own identity, the city offers travelers an endless mix of experiences. From quiet walks through Central Park to nights under Broadway lights, it captures both energy and variety.

For international tourists, New York represents US historical charm and contemporary living. Famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty share space with contemporary art galleries, fine dining, and entertainment districts that stay busy late into the night. It’s a place that feels both familiar and new with every visit.

Top Things To Do in New York City

  • Visit the Statue of Liberty: The Statue of Liberty offers climbs to the pedestal or crown, and nearby Ellis Island has a museum that tells the stories of millions who arrived in America.
  • Unwind and enjoy the rides: Central Park is a place to enjoy carriage rides, stroll along lakeside paths, or relax in shaded meadows.
  • Explore one of the world’s largest art collections: The Metropolitan Museum of Art showcases pieces ranging from ancient Egyptian relics to European works and modern art.
  • Catch a show and visit a famous hotspot: Broadway hosts productions year-round, while Times Square draws visitors with its bright screens, shopping,  and performers.
  • Walk across a historic crossing: The Brooklyn Bridge links Manhattan and Brooklyn and leads directly to the borough’s waterfront.

Best Places To Stay in New York City

  • For budget-friendly travelers: Pod 51 Hotel in Midtown offers compact rooms from about $193-$496 per night. With smart layouts, a rooftop deck, and easy subway access, it’s a practical base for exploring Manhattan.
  • For mid-range comfort: The Arlo SoHo provides stylish, modern rooms with rates between $249-$708 per night. Located in Lower Manhattan, it’s within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and art galleries.
  • For luxury travelers: The Plaza New York remains one of the city’s most recognizable stays. Rooms start around $992-$2,643 per night, offering elegant interiors and fine dining in a historic setting.

What To Know Before Visiting New York City

The busiest travel season runs from May through September, while December brings holiday markets and light displays. The subway is the fastest way to move between boroughs, though walking often reveals unexpected highlights. Many museums offer free or discounted entry on select days, making it easier to experience world-class art affordably.

Panoramic view of the Cleveland, Ohio skyline at dusk featuring the Terminal Tower, Key Tower, and other iconic skyscrapers. The historic Hope Memorial Bridge, glowing with lights, stretches across the foreground, showcasing the blend of modern architecture and historic charm in downtown Cleveland.

5. Cairo, Egypt

Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is a city where the past feels ever-present, making it one of the top tourist destinations in the world for 2025. From the Great Pyramids of Giza to lively markets in the city center, Cairo brings ancient wonders with the rhythm of everyday life. The Nile winds through the capital, offering both a natural anchor and a reminder of Egypt’s long history.

For international tourists, the draw is in the variety that the city offers. You can spend mornings exploring world-famous archaeological sites, afternoons in Islamic Cairo’s historic buildings, and evenings enjoying boat trips on the river. It’s a destination that captures both grandeur and daily culture.

Top Things To Do in Cairo

  • Discover a collection of historic artifacts: The Egyptian Museum holds thousands of items, including treasures from Tutankhamun’s tomb and relics from different dynasties.
  • See ancient monuments on the Giza Plateau: The Great Pyramids of Giza are often visited along with the Sphinx and nearby tombs, with tours sometimes offering camel rides around the site.
  • Shop in a traditional marketplace: Khan el-Khalili Bazaar is filled with spices, jewelry, textiles, and crafts, and is also a place to try local street food.
  • Visit a center of Islamic learning and worship: Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the world’s oldest universities and an important site in Cairo’s religious history.
  • Cruise along a historic river: The Nile River offers evening trips that include views of the city, with many featuring dinner and music.

Best Places To Stay in Cairo

  • For budget-friendly travelersCity View Hotel, across from the Egyptian Museum, has clean, simple rooms starting at $37-$71 per night. Its location makes sightseeing straightforward, especially for first-time visitors.
  • For mid-range comfort: Steigenberger Hotel El Tahrir offers modern rooms from $116-$264 per night near Tahrir Square. Guests appreciate the rooftop pool, central location, and short walk to the Nile.
  • For luxury travelers: Marriott Mena House sits just outside the city, offering balconies with direct views of the Pyramids. Rooms begin around $317-$1,527 per night, with landscaped gardens and fine dining steps away from the Giza Plateau.

What To Know Before Visiting Cairo

The most comfortable months to visit are October through April, when daytime temperatures are mild. Traffic in Cairo can be heavy, so booking guided tours or staying close to major attractions helps reduce travel time. Modest dress is expected in mosques and religious sites, and it’s common to remove shoes before entering.

Stunning aerial view of Cairo, Egypt, featuring the iconic Nile River surrounded by modern high-rise buildings, bridges, and vibrant city life. The golden sunset casts a warm glow over the skyline, showcasing the blend of historic charm and urban development in Egypt’s capital city.

6. Istanbul, Türkiye

Istanbul, Türkiye

Istanbul is a city that bridges Europe and Asia, offering travelers a mix of cultures, traditions, and architectural styles. It’s one of the most fascinating historic cities in the Middle East, where mosques, palaces, and bazaars sit alongside cafés, modern galleries, and lively neighborhoods. Few cities feel as connected to both past and present.

For international tourists, Istanbul offers an accessible mix of tradition and innovation. From UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the old city to boat trips on the Bosporus, it’s a destination where you can spend a morning inside centuries-old mosques and an evening in entertainment districts filled with music and food.

Top Things To Do in Istanbul

  • Visit a landmark of Byzantine architecture: Hagia Sophia has served as a church, mosque, and museum, and today remains one of the city’s most important sites.
  • Explore an imperial mosque complex: The Blue Mosque is known for its six minarets and detailed interior, and it is still an active place of worship.
  • Shop in a historic marketplace: The Grand Bazaar has thousands of stalls selling carpets, jewelry, spices, and ceramics, making it one of the largest covered markets in the world.
  • Walk through an Ottoman palace: The Topkapi Palace was once home to sultans and today displays collections of artifacts, gardens, and pavilions.
  • Take a ferry ride between continents: The Bosphorus Strait connects Europe and Asia, and ferries give views of palaces, mosques, and daily life along the water.

Best Places To Stay in Istanbul

  • For budget-friendly travelers: Cheers Hostel in Sultanahmet offers dorms and private rooms starting at $61-$157 per night. With a rooftop terrace facing Hagia Sophia, it’s a favorite for those who want location and community.
  • For mid-range comfort: Sirkeci Mansion, located near Topkapi Palace, has rooms from $111-$216 per night. Guests appreciate the traditional Turkish breakfasts, warm hospitality, and proximity to the old city.
  • For luxury travelers: Ciragan Palace Kempinski, a converted Ottoman palace on the Bosporus, offers suites starting at $573-$1,108 per night. With waterfront views, ornate interiors, and fine dining, it combines grandeur with comfort.

What To Know Before Visiting Istanbul

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–November) bring pleasant weather for sightseeing. The city’s transport system includes trams, metro lines, and ferries, making it easy to move between districts. Visitors to mosques should cover their shoulders and knees, and shoes must be removed before entering prayer areas.

Beautiful view of Istanbul’s historic Galata Tower rising above colorful buildings in the Beyoğlu district. Boats sail along the Bosphorus under a vibrant sunset sky, showcasing the charm of Istanbul’s iconic skyline and cultural heritage.

7. Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia

Sydney features modern skylines and oceanfront landscapes, offering travelers city life and outdoor adventure. With its golden beaches, waterfront dining, and cultural landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, it’s a destination that captures both energy and relaxation.

For international tourists, Sydney feels approachable and lively, with neighborhoods that each carry their own character. From the art galleries of the city center to the coastal paths along the Pacific Ocean, it’s a place that balances cosmopolitan attractions with natural escapes.

Top Things To Do in Sydney

  • Take a guided tour or watch a concert: Learn about its fascinating design and history on a guided tour, or book tickets to a performance in [Sydney Opera House](https://www.sydneyoperahouse.com). With its prime spot on Circular Quay, it’s also the ideal starting point for a harbor walk.
  • Surf and walk on the golden beachesBondi Beach is famous for surfing and golden beaches. Bondi is a lively spot to swim, sunbathe, or walk the coastal trail to Coogee. Cafés and casual restaurants line the beachfront for post-swim meals.
  • Climb to the famous bridge to see the city views: For adventurous travelers, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge provides unmatched city views. Those preferring a quieter option can walk across its pedestrian path for free.
  • Walk through markets and pubsThe Rocks is a historic neighborhood with stone streets, weekend markets, and pubs that reflect Sydney’s colonial past. It’s also home to galleries and artisan shops.
  • Take a peaceful walk: Located beside the harbor, Royal Botanic Gardens provides a peaceful break from the city, with walking trails and scenic views of the Opera House and bridge.

Best Places To Stay in Sydney

  • For budget-friendly travelers: Wake Up! Sydney, near Central Station, offers dorms and private rooms from $35–$120 per night. It’s known for its social atmosphere and easy access to public transport.
  • For mid-range comfortOvolo Woolloomooloo, set on a converted wharf, offers rooms from $185-$652 per night. Guests enjoy waterfront views, modern interiors, and a short walk to the Botanic Gardens and city center.
  • For luxury travelers: Park Hyatt Sydney sits directly on the harbor across from the Opera House. Rooms start around $707-$1,339 per night, offering private balconies, fine dining, and a rooftop pool with panoramic views.

What To Know Before Visiting Sydney

The best time to visit is September through April, when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are at their best. Sydney’s public transport system includes ferries, trains, and buses, making it easy to move between beaches, neighborhoods, and downtown attractions. While tipping is not expected, rounding up bills at restaurants is a common courtesy.

Panoramic view of Sydney Harbour, featuring the world-famous Sydney Opera House alongside the modern city skyline. The clear blue sky and sparkling waterfront highlight Australia’s most iconic landmark and vibrant urban landscape.

8. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is one of South America’s most iconic destinations, where dramatic mountains meet golden beaches and music spills onto the streets. The city is known worldwide for its energy, from Carnival parades to the everyday rhythm of samba and street life. Few places combine natural settings and cultural traditions as seamlessly as Rio.

For international tourists, Rio offers both an exciting metropolis and a chance to slow down by the sea. The coastline is dotted with lively beaches, while cable cars and hiking trails lead to unforgettable views over the city. Between historic neighborhoods and modern entertainment districts, Rio captures both spectacle and simplicity.

Top Things To Do in Rio de Janeiro

  • See the views of Rio from above: Christ the Redeemer stands atop Corcovado Mountain and is one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks. The best views are on clear mornings, when the city stretches out below.
  • Swim, sunbathe, or join beach games: Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches are the heart of Rio’s social life where locals and visitors alike gather.
  • Ride a cable car to see the views of the city and bay: Sugarloaf Mountain offers a two-stage journey that leads to wide views of the bay, beaches, and skyline. Sunset rides are also popular.
  • Experience Rio’s nightlife and samba: The Lapa District is known for its live music, street performances, and historic arches that light up after dark.
  • Explore art and culture in a hillside setting: Santa Teresa is a neighborhood filled with art studios, cafés, and winding streets that offer a quieter side of the city.

Best Places To Stay in Rio de Janeiro

  • For budget-friendly travelers: Selina Lapa Rio, in the city’s arts district, offers dorms and private rooms from  $37-$116 per night. It includes coworking spaces, a rooftop, and easy access to nightlife.
  • For mid-range comfort: Arena Ipanema Hotel sits between Copacabana and Ipanema, with rooms from $159-$336 per night. Its rooftop pool overlooks the beach, making it ideal for coastal stays.
  • For luxury travelers: Belmond Copacabana Palace is a landmark facing Copacabana Beach. Rooms start at about $699-$1,642 per night, with elegant interiors, fine dining, and a history of hosting celebrities and dignitaries.

What To Know Before Visiting Rio de Janeiro

December through March is peak season, with Carnival bringing the largest crowds. While the metro is useful, many visitors rely on taxis and rideshares for convenience and safety. Staying near the beaches or central neighborhoods reduces travel time and keeps most attractions within easy reach.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featuring the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain rising above Guanabara Bay. The golden sandy beaches, boats anchored in the bay, and the vibrant city skyline under a bright blue sky, showcasing one of Rio’s most famous landmarks.

9. Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a capital city that thrives on contrasts: ancient temples sit beside modern skyscrapers, and quiet canals weave through entertainment districts alive with music and food. It’s one of Southeast Asia’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing international tourists with its cultural history, street food, and lively energy.

For travelers, Bangkok offers a lot of variety, allowing each visit to feel unique. From the Grand Palace to floating markets, the city combines historic buildings and urban retreats in a way that feels both intense and rewarding.

Top Things To Do in Bangkok

  • Explore royal history and architecture: The Grand Palace was the former royal residence and is one of Thailand’s most visited landmarks. Its intricate design and the revered Emerald Buddha make it a must-see. Visitors must dress modestly to enter.
  • Visit a famous reclining Buddha and learn about Thai massage: Wat Pho is home to the famous statue and one of the country’s oldest massage schools. It’s both a spiritual and cultural stop.
  • Take a boat trip through traditional trade routes: The floating markets such as Damnoen Saduak or Amphawa showcase vendors selling fruit, snacks, and souvenirs directly from their boats.
  • Shop for clothes, antiques, and street foodChatuchak Weekend Market has thousands of stalls and is one of the best places to try Thai street food while browsing.
  • Experience budget dining and nightlife: Khao San Road is a traveler hub offering cheap eats, bars, and entertainment that lasts into the early morning.

Best Places To Stay in Bangkok

  • For budget-friendly travelers: Rambuttri Village Inn, located near Khao San Road, has simple rooms from $22-$37 per night. Its central location allows easy access to temples and markets.
  • For mid-range comfort: Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok sits on the Chao Phraya River, with rooms from $119-$230 per night. Guests enjoy spacious layouts, boat shuttles, and views of the skyline.
  • For luxury travelers: The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, a riverside landmark, offers rooms starting at $438-$1,225 per night. Its elegant interiors, fine dining, and legendary service make it one of Asia’s most celebrated hotels.

What To Know Before Visiting Bangkok

Bangkok is hot and humid year-round, though November through February is cooler and more comfortable. The BTS Skytrain and river boats are the fastest ways to get around, as road traffic can be heavy. When visiting temples, cover your shoulders and knees, and always remove your shoes before entering.

Vibrant view of Bangkok, Thailand, showcasing the Chao Phraya River, modern skyscrapers, and the famous Asiatique Ferris Wheel at sunset.

10. Dubai, UAE

Dubai, UAE

Dubai has grown into one of the most visited cities in the Middle East, known for its modern skyline, ambitious projects, and year-round sunshine. It’s a place where world’s largest attractions rise out of the desert, yet older quarters along Dubai Creek still preserve the city’s roots. This contrast makes it a compelling stop for international tourists in 2025.

For travelers, Dubai offers a little bit of everything. You can spend the morning shopping in air-conditioned malls, the afternoon on golden beaches, and the evening in desert camps under the stars. It’s a destination that combines innovation with cultural history.

Top Things To Do in Dubai

  • Ride high-speed elevators to sky-high views: Burj Khalifa stands at 828 meters and is the tallest building in the world. Observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors offer sweeping views, with sunset visits especially popular.
  • Explore the city: Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi District feature narrow lanes, wind towers, and small museums that reflect life before the oil era. Wooden abras still ferry passengers across the creek for a traditional touch.
  • Relax or play on a palm-shaped island: Palm Jumeirah is lined with resorts, restaurants, and entertainment spots. Families often visit Aquaventure Waterpark, while boat trips showcase views of the city’s skyline.
  • Shop, dine, and watch evening shows: Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain combine hundreds of shops and attractions, like an aquarium and ice rink with nightly fountain displays set to music.
  • Experience desert adventures: A desert safari just outside the city includes dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and barbecues under open skies. Evening tours often feature live performances.

Best Places To Stay in Dubai

  • For budget-friendly travelersPremier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf offers modern rooms from $35-$106 per night. Its location near the metro provides easy access to the city center and the airport.
  • For mid-range comfort: Rove Downtown, close to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, has rooms from $76-$269 per night. Guests value its casual style, central location, and on-site café.
  • For luxury travelers: Jumeirah Burj Al Arab remains one of the world’s most famous hotels, designed in the shape of a sail. Rooms begin at $1,195-$2,971 per night, offering private suites, fine dining, and access to an exclusive beach.

What To Know Before Visiting Dubai

The most comfortable months are November through March, when daytime temperatures are cooler. Modest dress is expected in traditional areas. Beach resorts are more relaxed. Public transport includes a clean, efficient metro system, while taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most convenient way to move between neighborhoods.

Stunning evening view of Dubai Marina featuring towering skyscrapers and modern architecture glowing against the twilight sky.

11. Yellowstone National Park, USA

Yellowstone National Park, USA

Yellowstone is one of the world’s most remarkable national parks, known for its geothermal wonders, diverse wildlife, and dramatic landscapes. Established in 1872, it remains a favorite for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts in 2025, offering a chance to experience natural wonders on a grand scale.

For international tourists, Yellowstone delivers variety in every direction. From steaming geysers to herds of bison crossing open plains, it’s a destination where the environment feels both powerful and accessible. Visitor centers throughout the park provide helpful guidance for planning each day’s adventures.

Top Things To Do in Yellowstone National Park

  • Watch a geyser erupt on schedule: Old Faithful erupts roughly every 90 minutes, and the nearby visitor center features exhibits on the park’s geothermal activity.
  • See one of the park’s most colorful sightsGrand Prismatic Spring is known for its striking colors and is among Yellowstone’s most photographed spots. Boardwalk trails provide close-up views, while a short hike to the overlook gives the best perspective.
  • Spend time by the water: Yellowstone Lake is a vast alpine lake where visitors can kayak, fish, or relax along the shoreline. Boat tours are also available in summer.
  • Spot wildlife in a natural setting: Lamar Valley is often called “America’s Serengeti” and is one of the best places to see bison, wolves, elk, and sometimes bears. Early mornings and evenings are prime times for sightings.
  • Enjoy the canyon views: The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone features Bridal Veil Falls and colorful canyon walls, with scenic overlooks and hiking trails to explore.

Best Places To Stay near Yellowstone

  • For budget-friendly travelersCanyon Campground inside the park offers campsites starting around $295-$407 per night. Facilities include restrooms and access to trails leading into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
  • For mid-range comfort: The Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone, located in West Yellowstone, offer modern cabin-style stays from $229-$654 per night. Each includes kitchens, fireplaces, and easy access to the park entrance.
  • For luxury travelers: Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins provides historic rooms from $258-$852 per night. Overlooking Yellowstone Lake, it combines convenience with park lodge charm.

What To Know Before Visiting Yellowstone

The park is open year-round, but most roads and facilities are fully accessible from late May through early October. Summer is busiest, so arriving early in the day helps avoid congestion. Wildlife should always be observed from a safe distance, and weather can shift quickly in the mountains, so layered clothing is recommended. For many travelers, Yellowstone is a true bucket list destination, combining natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and dramatic landscapes in one trip.

Tranquil scene of a winding river surrounded by lush pine trees and meadows, bathed in golden sunset light.

12. Reykjavik & Iceland

Reykjavik & Iceland

Iceland has become a standout destination for international tourists, offering volcanic landscapes, geothermal springs, and one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Its capital city, Reykjavik, provides a compact but lively base filled with art galleries, colorful houses, and fine dining. Together, the country’s natural beauty and cultural history make it one of the top tourist destinations in the world for 2025.

Travelers come to Iceland for its contrasts: glaciers and black-sand beaches, modern skylines in Reykjavik, and fishing villages that feel centuries old. With a focus on sustainable tourism and access to national parks, it’s a destination that appeals to both adventure seekers and those looking for quiet escapes.

Top Things To Do in Reykjavik & Iceland

  • Chase the aurora under clear skies: Northern Lights tours run from September through April and take travelers outside the city for the best chances of seeing the northern lights.
  • Take a day trip through natural landmarks: The Golden Circle route includes Þingvellir National Park, the Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall, each showcasing a different part of Iceland’s landscape.
  • Relax in warm, mineral-rich waters: The Blue Lagoon is a geothermal spa near Reykjavik that many travelers visit at the start or end of their trip since it’s close to the airport.
  • Explore a compact and walkable capital: Reykjavik city center features Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall, and lively streets with cafés, galleries, and boutiques.
  • See waterfalls, beaches, and glaciers in one trip: South Coast tours from Reykjavik often include Seljalandsfoss, volcanic shores, and glacier views, making it one of the most photographed areas in Iceland.

Best Places To Stay in Reykjavik & Iceland

  • For budget-friendly travelers: Kex Hostel, housed in a converted biscuit factory, offers dorms and private rooms from $95-$276 per night. It’s popular for its social atmosphere and central location in Reykjavik.
  • For mid-range comfort: Center Hotels Plaza, located in downtown Reykjavik, provides rooms from $148-$395 per night. Guests enjoy easy access to the harbor, museums, and lively nightlife.
  • For luxury travelers: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon offers suites starting around $400-$1,200 per night, with private access to the lagoon, spa treatments, and views of the lava fields. It’s a destination in itself.

What To Know Before Visiting Iceland

Summer (June–August) brings long daylight hours and easier access to highland roads, while winter offers the chance to see the Northern Lights. Renting a car is the best way to explore beyond Reykjavik, but guided tours cover major highlights. The weather is unpredictable year-round, so packing layers and waterproof clothing is essential.

Scenic view of Reykjavik, Iceland, showcasing colorful rooftops, modern architecture, and mountains rising across Faxaflói Bay.

FAQs

Which destination is best for cultural history?

Rome, Cairo, and Kyoto stand out for their ancient cities, historic buildings, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Each offers a deep look into traditions, architecture, and art that shaped entire civilizations.

Where should nature lovers go in 2025?

Yellowstone National Park offers geothermal wonders and wildlife, while Rio de Janeiro combines spectacular mountains with golden beaches. Both provide unforgettable landscapes and outdoor adventures.

What’s the best destination for nightlife and entertainment?

Bangkok, New York City, and Rio de Janeiro are known for their entertainment districts, exciting nightlife, and music scenes. Each city offers a different flavor, from Broadway shows to samba clubs to bustling street food hubs.

Which cities are easiest for international tourists to reach?

Paris, Dubai, and New York City have major international airports and extensive transport systems, making them among the most accessible for global visitors.