2025 Travel Forecast: Alternative Destinations for Curious Travelers

Travel in 2025 is about more than seeing the sights—it’s about meaningful connections, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences. Skip the crowds and seek out hidden gems that reveal the soul of a destination. From secret neighborhoods to forgotten landmarks, here’s a reimagined list for those who want to venture beyond the obvious.

Berlin

Instead of...

Instead of Museum Island, discover Berlin’s lesser-known layers. Visit the former Tempelhof Airport, now a massive park perfect for cycling and picnics, explore the Kreuzberg neighborhood, or dive into the city's underground art scene with a trip to the Sammlung Boros, a WWII bunker turned private contemporary art museum.

Who should travel here?

History buffs, contemporary art enthusiasts, and food lovers will find plenty to explore in Berlin.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

The Berlin Wall Memorial and the East Side Gallery are must-visits. For a deeper dive into WWII history, the Topography of Terror offers a sobering experience.

A lesser-known local spot:

Have a picnic at Körnerpark, a beautifully designed green space hidden in a residential neighborhood. 

Bilbao

Instead of...

After the Guggenheim Museum, wander through Casco Viejo (Old Town), where narrow streets are lined with vibrant pintxo bars and local shops. Discover the lively Mercado de la Ribera, Europe’s largest covered market, to soak in the Basque culinary culture.

Who should travel here?

Art enthusiasts, food lovers, and those seeking a mix of modernity and tradition.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

The Guggenheim Museum, the Zubizuri Bridge, and the panoramic views from Mount Artxanda.

A lesser-known local spot:

Zorrotzaurre, a former industrial area turned into a creative hub with hidden galleries and trendy cafes.

Bruges

Instead of...

Escape the crowded Markt Square, visit Grote Markt instead. Stroll through the Begijnhof, a serene medieval courtyard and convent. Hop on a bike and explore the countryside, where you’ll find windmills and picturesque Flemish villages.

Who should travel here?

Romantics and those looking for a slower pace. Fans of architecture will find a plethora of jaw-dropping venues.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Climb the Belfry for panoramic views and visit the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

A lesser-known local spot:

Sip local beer at Brugs Beertje, a cozy bar loved by locals. 

Budapest

Instead of...

Go beyond Buda Castle and the famous baths to discover the Hospital in the Rock, a subterranean museum showcasing Budapest’s WWII and Cold War history. Venture into the lesser-known Vorosmarty Square or visit the Óbuda district, home to charming streets and Roman ruins.

Who should travel here?

History lovers will enjoy diving into Budapest’s past, spa lovers can visit the historic baths, and art enthusiasts can enjoy the city' galleries and opera houses. Night owls will revel in the city’s eclectic ruin pubs.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Relax at Széchenyi Thermal Bath, tour Buda Castle, and walk along the Danube at sunset.

A lesser-known local spot:

Try hearty Hungarian dishes at a small family-run eatery like Kádár Étkezde. 

Buenos Aires 

Instead of...

After visiting La Boca or Palermo Soho, venture into the Almagro neighborhood, the birthplace of tango. Here, you can find intimate milongas (tango clubs) where locals dance the night away, along with authentic parrillas (steakhouses) serving up incredible asado.

Who should travel here?

Culture seekers, music lovers, and anyone looking to dive deep into Buenos Aires’ tango and culinary traditions.

First time? You shouldn't miss:

Exploring Recoleta Cemetery, the colorful streets of Caminito, and catching a tango show in San Telmo.

A lesser-known local spot: 

Milonga La Catedral, a quirky and atmospheric tango hall where you can watch—or even join—locals dancing in a true porteño setting.

Cape Town

Instead of...

Skip the queues for Table Mountain and explore the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a haven of indigenous flora. After wandering through Bo-Kaap, tour Simon's Town. Then take a scenic train ride to Kalk Bay, a quirky fishing village brimming with vintage shops and harbor-side eateries.

Who should travel here?

Outdoor adventurers, curious history buffs, students of civil rights movements around the world, and wine enthusiasts.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Hike Table Mountain, tour Robben Island, and explore the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood.

A lesser-known local spot:

Start your day with coffee at Truth Coffee Roasting and end with a sunset dinner at Camps Bay.

Copenhagen

Instead of...

Trade the colorful Nyhavn harbor for a visit to Refshaleøen, a revitalized industrial area with cutting-edge restaurants and art installations. Rent a bike and explore the city’s outer neighborhoods like Nørrebro, where street art and small breweries flourish.

Who should travel here?

Design aficionados and food lovers would be remiss to leave Copenhagen off their travel list in 2025. Those who travel with an eye toward sustainability will find much in common with the locals here. 

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Tour Tivoli Gardens, cycle around Nyhavn, and dine at a New Nordic restaurant like Kadeau.

A lesser-known local spot:

Grab coffee at The Coffee Collective in Jægersborggade, a vibrant local street. 

Dublin 

Instead of...

Go beyond the traditional pub crawl with a stroll along the Royal Canal or a visit to the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA), housed in a historic hospital. Explore the world of Ireland's famous literary figures before venturing out to Howth, a charming fishing village just a train ride away.

Who should travel here?

Dublin was made for book lovers, pub enthusiasts, and history buffs.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Visit Trinity College’s Long Room, explore Dublin Castle, and tour the Guinness Storehouse.

A lesser-known local spot:

Enjoy fresh seafood and a quiet cliff walk in Howth. 

Edinburgh 

Instead of... 

Leave the Royal Mile behind and explore Dean Village, a peaceful riverside neighborhood with quaint architecture. Perhaps a spook is in store for you; explore the darker side of Edinburgh with a visit to Greyfriers Kirkyard. Check out the Surgeons’ Hall Museums for a fascinating dive into medical history.

Who should travel here?

Literature fans, nature lovers, history and architecture buffs, and festival-goers will all find a home in Edinburgh.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Climb Arthur’s Seat, tour Edinburgh Castle, and explore the Royal Mile.

A lesser-known local spot:

Take a walk along the Water of Leith, a hidden oasis within the city. 

Krakow 

Instead of...

Instead of Rynek Glowny, wander the Nowa Huta district, a planned Socialist Realist suburb that reveals a different side of Krakow’s history. Visit the Tyniec Abbey, a Benedictine monastery perched on a cliff above the Vistula River.

Who should travel here?

History enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and art lovers. 

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Wander Rynek Glowny, visit Wawel Castle, and pay respects at Auschwitz-Birkenau.

A lesser-known local spot:

Dine on farm-to-table Polish cuisine at Karakter. 

Kyoto 

Instead of...

Escape the crowds at Fushimi Inari and head to Kurama, a tranquil mountain town with hot springs and hiking trails, or consider visiting Uji, a center of tea production known for its many beautiful shrines and temples. 

Who should travel here?

Cultural immersion seekers, history lovers, photographers, and foodies. Nature lovers will also feel at home here, especially during sakura season.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and a traditional kaiseki meal.

A lesser-known local spot:

Enjoy a kaiseki meal at a small, family-run restaurant like Kikunoi Roan.

Lake Como 

Instead of...

Leave Bellagio behind and head to the sleepy village of Torno, where cobblestone streets wind down to the serene lake. Take a hike to Montepiatto for panoramic views and a glimpse of the unique rock formations at Pietra Pendula.

Who should travel here?

Honeymooners or anyone seeking a romantic, tranquil escape. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring historic villas, and outdoor adventurers can explore the surrounding mountains.  

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Visit Villa del Balbianello, take a boat ride on the lake, and explore Bellagio.

A lesser-known local spot:

Savor handmade pasta at Il Baretto in Torno. 

Lyon

Instead of...

Instead of focusing solely on Vieux Lyon, explore the Croix-Rousse district, the city’s former silk-weaving hub. Its hidden traboules (passageways), artistic vibe, and bustling markets reveal a unique side of Lyon.

Who should travel here?

History buffs, foodies, and art lovers.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Presqu'île district, and a bouchon Lyonnais meal.

A lesser-known local spot:

Le Bistrot des Voraces is a cozy eatery offering traditional Lyonnaise dishes in a welcoming setting.

Prague

Instead of... 

Avoid the Charles Bridge at peak hours and visit Vyšehrad, a historic fortress with incredible views and fewer tourists. Explore the first Cubist building ever constructed with a visit to the House of the Black Madonna, or take a tram to the Dejvice district for modern Czech cuisine and a slower pace.

Who should travel here?

Romantics will feel at home in Prague's fairy-tale atmosphere. History enthusiasts, architecture-curious travelers, and beer aficionados should also make a stop here. 

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, and the Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square.

A lesser-known local spot:

Sip a craft beer at Vinohradský Pivovar, a local favorite. 

Provence 

Instead of...

Venture to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, a charming Provençal town known for its antique markets and canals. Often called the "Venice of Provence," it offers a quieter, more local experience than the touristy lavender fields. Explore the Sunday market for fresh produce and artisanal goods or take a leisurely stroll along the Sorgue River.

Who should travel here?

Nature enthusiasts will adore Provence’s scenic landscapes, while history buffs can explore its Roman ruins. Gourmands and oenophiles will find joy in its markets and wineries.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Explore the Luberon villages, visit the Roman theater in Orange, and enjoy a wine tour in Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

A lesser-known local spot:

Dine at Le Jardin du Quai, a garden-set bistro offering seasonal dishes inspired by local flavors. 

Salzburg 

Instead of...

San Miguel de Allende 

Instead of...

Skip the bustling main square and immerse yourself in local life at Mercado de Artesanías, a vibrant market tucked away in the backstreets. Here, you’ll find handcrafted goods, traditional textiles, and local pottery, all made by regional artisans. It’s the perfect spot to pick up unique souvenirs while supporting the community. For a tranquil escape, visit the Cañada de la Virgen archaeological site just outside the city.

Who should travel here?

Artists and creatives, foodies, and history lovers.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, El Charco del Ingenio Botanical Garden, and Fabrica La Aurora.

A lesser-known local spot:

Visit Lavanda Café, a cozy café known for its lavender-infused coffee and delicious breakfasts, offering a serene escape from the city’s busy streets. 

Stockholm

Instead of...

After you've had your fill of Gamla Stan, venture to Södermalm, a trendy neighborhood brimming with creativity. From vintage shops to indie cafes, it offers a relaxed, local vibe with stunning waterfront views.

Who should travel here?

Design lovers, fika enthusiasts, and outdoor adventurers.

First time? You shouldn’t miss:

Gamla Stan, the Vasa Museum, and a boat tour of the archipelago. 

A lesser-known local spot:

Café Pom & Flora in Södermalm offers a cozy spot for fika paired with delicious pastries. Follow it with a stroll in Tantolunden Park.

Ready to Travel? 

2025 is the perfect year to make travel dreams a reality. From historic landmarks to culinary delights and natural wonders, these destinations promise unique experiences that inspire and connect. Explore responsibly, savor every moment, and let the journey transform you. Where will your travels take you this year? Let’s find out together.