Compiling the best destinations – and hotels – to book in 2025 was no mean feat. With 195 countries to choose from, and 67,663 different flight routes that connect 10,000 airports across the globe, it’s safe to say we needed a little help narrowing down this year’s up-and-coming travel destinations. So, naturally, we called in the big guns: one being Amex, who recently released a report revealing its latest Cardmember travel bookings, and Skyscanner, who collated the most ‘happening hangouts’ from a recent surge in flight searches. The result? Our comprehensive guide to the travel destinations to have on your radar in 2025, from the cultural capital of Cambodia to the epicurean epicentre of South Africa’s winelands. 

Franschhoek, South Africa

Best for: Wining and dining

Dotted with age-old vineyards and Cape Dutch architecture, Franschhoek is one of the smallest towns in South Africa. A haven for oenophiles and epicureans, it sits at the heart of the Cape Winelands, which produce some of the world’s best white wines – think floral sauvignon blancs, creamy semillons, and high-end chardonnays – and pinotage from roughly 50 family-owned wineries. Farm-to-table restaurants come as standard, and a standout meal can be swiftly followed by easy hikes and walks across Franschhoek’s grassy plains and mountain ridges. Avid adventurers will love the trails in Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve, while the Franschhoek Pass route will reward you with panoramic views of gorges, valleys and surrounding peaks. 

Where to stay: The Last Word Franschhoek

Boasting just 10 exclusive guestrooms, South African hospitality brand The Last Word opened its Franschhoek outpost in 2014 to offer savvy travellers a true taste of the Cape Winelands. Tucked away amid craggy mountains and rolling vineyards – moments away from the some of the country’s best wine farms and fine dining restaurants – the hotel invites you to start the day with breakfast in bed, lounge in the hotel’s bougainvillea-filled gardens, enjoy some downtime by the pool and indulge in an in-suite hot stone massage. For first-in access to the aforementioned wineries, The Last Word’s concierge team can organise private tours courtesy of the in-house chauffeur service. 

From £238 per night. 

Paros, Greece

Image: Shutterstock

Image: Shutterstock/Wirestock Creators

Best for: Idyllic island escapes

Just a three-hour ferry from the Greek capital of Athens, Paros was once an island-hopping pitstop thanks to its proximity to Mykonos and Santorini, but according to Amex’s report, it is slowly but surely emerging as a 2025 travel destination in its own right. Boasting 120km of coastline characterised by golden sand beaches, leafy mountains and cliff-top villages, visit Parikia and Naoussa at the beating heart of the island to be greeted with traditional taverns, luxurious restaurants and sophisticated bars, while those who prefer a quieter experience should head to the laidback villages of Lefkes and Marpissa where a true taste of Greek island life awaits. 

Where to stay: Andronis Minois

Following an extensive renovation in 2023, the Paros outpost of the Andronis Hotels group – a family-owned collection of luxury Grecian five-star hotels – is a fine example of modern Cycladic architecture. Each suite in the 44-key property, situated in the village of Parasporos, features private patios and gorgeous views, while a central swimming pool with a vibrant day-to-night lounge deck, well-equipped outdoor gym, subterranean spa, and fine dining restaurant, Olvo, are all within walking distance. Located just over 500ft from the water’s edge, ocean swims are a short saunter away while adventurers can take advantage of the extensive activity menu at Andronis Minois, which includes horse riding, diving, and windsurfing. 

From £200 per night. 

Siem Reap, Cambodia

Best for: History buffs

With a 241 per cent search increase, according to Skyscanner, Siem Reap is the city on every traveller’s bucket list in 2025. As Cambodia’s second largest city, it’s the gateway to the temples of Angkor and has recently experienced a tourist-friendly facelift, reinventing itself as a destination for culture, wellness and fine dining. The aforementioned ruins of Angkor – a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1992 – were the seat of the Khmer kingdom from the 9^th-15^th centuries, and comprise a vast complex of preserved stone buildings including the famous main temple, Angkor Wat, which is pictured on Cambodia’s flag. Beyond the temples, explore the array of floating villages, cruise the Tonle Sap Lake and swim at Kulen Waterfalls. 

Where to stay: Anantara Angkor Resort

Just 15 minutes from the steps of Angkor Wat, Anantara’s luxury hotel in Siem Reap offers a spiritual escape inspired by the soul of Cambodia’s most captivating destination. The five-star immersive experience begins with welcome drinks, a traditional Khmer foot ritual, and a special Krama gift before being invited to settle into one of 39 suites, all inspired by ancient Khmer design with teak flooring, elegant silks and intricate carvings referencing the bas reliefs of Angkor Wat. A dedicated butler is on hand to help plan an array of excursions, from exploring remote ruins in a stylish Jeep to sampling Siem Reap’s finest street food on a Vespa. Return to the resort for a dose of rejuvenation, be that indulging in refined dining at one of its four restaurants or enjoy revitalising spa treatments inspired by Khmer’s Seven Ways of Enlightenment. 

From £134 per night.

Tartu, Estonia

Best for: Culture vultures

After being named European Capital of Culture for 2024, Tartu in eastern Estonia is gaining traction as an up-and-coming travel destination. As the second largest city in the country, first documented in the year 1030, it is known as Estonia's centre of learning, thanks to its globally respected university and scientific community, while the wider southern region, with its beautiful, expansive countryside, forests, and wetlands, is home to the indigenous Seto and Võro people. As a result of its recent cultural recognition – the second time the country has held the title after the capital city Tallinn in 2011 – expect plenty of insightful exhibitions and events at the Estonian National Museum, AHHAA Science Centre, University of Tartu Botanical Garden and Tartu Cathedral, which dates back to the 13^th century. 

Where to stay: Hotel Antonius

Opened in 2009, but housed in a building that was completed in 1811, Hotel Antonius exudes historic charm and Estonian romanticism. Inside, garret rooms, period ceiling joists and stone walls have been restored while rooms feature unique wallpaper patterns, glazed tile fireplaces and stoves, and velvet sofas. Dinner is served at a boutique restaurant in a vaulted cellar, complete with an atrium adorned with rose paintings, while the stylish library invites guests to enjoy an aperitif and digestif in front of the open fire.

From £91 per night. 

Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Best for: Experiencing ‘charm city’

Move over Chicago and Boston, Baltimore is the latest US city to attract a flurry of tourists – and we can see why. Also known as ‘charm city’, thanks to the easygoing attitude of its locals, there’s plenty to do in the largest city in Maryland. Cruise around the Inner Harbour – one of America’s oldest seaports – before getting up close and personal with sharks and rays at the National Aquarium, spotting archaeological marvels at Maryland Science Centre and stargazing at Patterson Park Observatory. Sample seafood, especially the native steamed blue crabs, at Lexington Market before discovering the birthplace of the American national anthem; Francis Scott Key wrote the words for what would become the Star-Spangled Banner while watching a battle at Fort McHenry, now a museum and park. 

Where to stay: Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

Sagamore Pendry Baltimore is located in the vibrant waterfront community of Fell’s Point overlooking the Inner Harbour. The 128-room luxury hotel sits on a storied property, built in 1914 on the historic Recreation Pier – ‘Rec Pier’ as it’s known to locals – and embodies the city’s rich history and vibrant personality with character and style. Inside, discover interiors by Patrick Sutton Interior Design, extensive artwork celebrating the very best of ‘charm city’ and multiple restaurants, including a waterfront bar and grill, The Cannon Room, and Rec Pier Chop House. 

From £333 per night. 

Read more: The hot list: Where to travel in January