As a new year rolls in, most travel fans are eagerly leafing through atlases or on travel blogs looking for places to visit in the new year.
If this is you, we’ve saved you loads of time by compiling a list of some of the very best cities around the world to visit in 2025 – that you might not have thought about!
Where to add to your 2025 bucket list
Zaragoza, Spain
Often overlooked in favour of Barcelona or Madrid, Zaragoza may not have as many tourists, but it’s well worth your time.
Zaragoza, established as Caesaraugusta by the Romans around 24 BC, has a rich history shaped by successive Roman, Moorish and Christian civilizations. Over the centuries, it has been a strategic cultural centre, experiencing significant events like Islamic rule, the Reconquista and pivotal battles during the Peninsular War.
Highlights include the Basilica del Pilar, Aljafería Palace, and the Goya Museum. Its burgeoning food scene, with tapas bars and local specialties like borraja (a leafy green), is also putting it on the map.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana’s riverside cafes, vibrant art scene, and compact, walkable old town make it a gem for 2025.
It is most famous for its castle – Ljubljana Castle overlooks the city and is a centuries-old fortress that has served various roles, from a medieval stronghold to a royal residence and later a prison. Nowadays it’s a tourist attraction!
Known as Europe’s Green Capital, Ljubljana’s pedestrian-friendly streets, bike culture and nearby nature spots like Lake Bled give a much more relaxed vibe than other European capitals.
Kaunas, Lithuania
Lithuania’s second-largest city is gaining recognition as a creative hub, thanks to its street art and plethora of museums.
Don’t miss the Kaunas Ninth Fort Museum and the city’s interwar Modernist architecture – which was made a UNESCO site in 2023.
Lithuania is an easy country to travel around in – it’s high-tech and English is spoken widely – but it’s still not as popular as many other European countries. Get there before the crowds do!
Osaka, Japan
Fancy Japan, but Tokyo’s too hectic? Try Osaka!
This city has been named a top trending city for 2025, thanks to its incredible food culture with proximity to UNESCO sites like Nara and Mount Koya.
Explore its dynamic culinary scene with favourites like takoyaki and okonomiyaki. Or visit Osaka Castle and the futuristic Umeda Sky Building to tap into Osaka’s culture.
Valparaíso, Chile
Valparaíso was founded in 1536 by Spanish explorers and grew into a major port city during the 19th century – it was a key hub for trade between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Its prosperity declined after the opening of the Panama Canal, but its rich maritime history and cultural significance endure.
Nowadays known for its colourful hillside houses and stunning coastal views, Valparaíso is home to a UNESCO historical quarter and is in close proximity to Casablanca Valley for world-class wine tasting.
Kotor, Montenegro
Located on the Adriatic coast, Kotor enchants visitors with its walled Old Town, Venetian architecture, and stunning fjord-like bay.
Climb the fortress walls for panoramic views, then relax at waterfront cafes.
Kotor’s relative calmness makes it a fantastic alternative to more crowded Mediterranean destinations.
Tirana, Albania
Albania has fast become one of the best countries to visit in Europe, and Tirana is rapidly evolving as a cultural hotspot in the Balkans.
Bunk’Art, a museum housed in a Cold War bunker, is a must-do, as is walking along Skanderbeg Square, admiring Ottoman architecture and enjoying the lively cafes of the Blloku district.
Durres and the Albanian coastline is just a short drive away, too!
Rome, Italy
Rome, the home of the Pope, Colosseum, pasta and even the game of Baccarat needs no introduction.
It will be at the centre of global attention in 2025 with the Jubilee Year expected to attract millions of pilgrims.
Significant renovations are underway, including updates to historic sites and public spaces.
Explore classics like the Colosseum and the Vatican, alongside quieter neighbourhoods such as Trastevere.
Be prepared for crowds but enjoy a city alive with renewed energy and cultural events!
Puebla, Mexico
A city of Baroque treasures and culinary innovation, Puebla is famous for its stunning cathedrals and rich dishes like mole poblano.
Wander the historic centre’s streets lined with colourful facades and explore the nearby Great Pyramid of Cholula.
It’s just a two-hour bus ride south from Mexico City, but completely different in atmosphere!
Busan, South Korea
Sitting on South Korea’s coastline, in Busan you’ll find a mix of urban energy and natural beauty, with beaches, temples and markets to explore.
Highlights include Gamcheon Culture Village, Haedong Yonggungsa Temple and Jagalchi Fish Market.
Its film festival and burgeoning cafe scene make it one of Asia’s most dynamic cities for 2025.
Final thoughts
These cities are all well-known for their wealth of attractions and friendliness towards tourists. If your 2025 resolution is to travel more, add them to your list!
