Lonely Planet names the top 30 destinations to visit in 2025

This year, the focus is on lesser-known “gems” and offering “fresh takes” on established tourist hotspots around the world, with the brand encouraging travellers to be more mindful. The top ten cities, countries, and regions were selected based on several criteria, including topicality, unique experiences, the ‘wow factor,’ and their ongoing commitment to sustainability, community, and diversity.

In the best cities list, Lonely Planet recommends Toulouse’s vibrant canal banks as a key attraction, while Puducherry in India is suggested for beach lovers, and Bansko, Bulgaria, is recognised for its budget-friendly ski slopes. Alongside Toulouse, the guide ranks Cameroon at the top of the best countries list, praised for its pristine beaches, lively nightlife, and peaceful national parks. Lithuania and Fiji, with their rich cultural heritage and protected marine areas, take second and third place, respectively.

For the best regions, South Carolina’s Lowcountry and Coastal Georgia in the USA take the top spot, celebrated for their dynamic food scene and complex history. Nepal’s Terai region, the birthplace of Buddha, comes in second.

Nitya Chambers, Lonely Planet’s executive editor, commented: “Best in Travel 2025 is the latest edition of Lonely Planet’s annual love letter to the world. While being mindful of our responsibilities and impact as travellers, we’re proud of the destinations, journeys, and experiences featured here and are excited to share the local expertise and insights that inform these recommendations.”

Top 10 Best Cities:

1. Toulouse, France
2. Puducherry, India
3. Bansko, Bulgaria
4. Chiang Mai, Thailand
5. Genoa, Italy
6. Pittsburgh, USA
7. Osaka, Japan
8. Curitiba, Brazil
9. Palma de Mallorca, Spain
10. Edmonton, Canada

Top 10 Best Countries:

1. Cameroon
2. Lithuania
3. Fiji
4. Laos
5. Kazakhstan
6. Paraguay
7. Trinidad & Tobago
8. Vanuatu
9. Slovakia
10. Armenia

Top 10 Best Regions:

1. South Carolina’s Lowcountry and Coastal Georgia, USA
2. The Terai, Nepal
3. Chiriqui, Panama
4. Launceston & the Tamar Valley, Australia
5. Valais, Switzerland
6. Giresun & Ordu, Turkey
7. Bavaria, Germany
8. East Anglia, England
9. Jordan Trail
10. Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge region, Oregon, USA.