Top 10 travel trends for 2025 to know before your next trip

Top 10 travel trends for 2025 to know before your next trip (Image: Canva)

As we say goodbye to 2024, a year full of quirky trends like “cool-cations” and active tourism, 2025 promises to take wanderlust to new heights. According to a recent survey by Accor, 74% of Brits are eager to travel abroad in the upcoming year. But where will they go? And what kind of experiences will they seek? Let’s explore the top 10 travel trends set to shape 2025, trends that will redefine the way you see the world.

1. AI-tinerary: Let Artificial Intelligence Plan Your Perfect Getaway
Imagine having an AI-powered travel assistant at your fingertips. In 2025, AI will revolutionize how we plan our travels. From AI-driven trip generators to smart virtual assistants, these tools will curate hyper-personalized itineraries based on your preferences. No more scrolling through endless lists of attractions—AI will craft a seamless, stress-free journey tailored just for you.

2. Authenti-cities: Get Real with Local Experiences
2025 is all about moving away from cookie-cutter vacations and embracing genuine, local experiences. Travelers will dive deep into local cultures, uncover hidden gems, and build meaningful connections with the people they meet. Authenticity will become the new luxury, urging you to explore beyond the typical tourist hotspots and truly immerse yourself in your destination.

3. Earth-Friendly Escapes: Traveling with a Purpose
Sustainability is no longer just a trend—it's a way of life. In 2025, eco-conscious travel will be at the forefront. More travelers will choose destinations and experiences that minimize their carbon footprint and contribute to the preservation of the planet. From eco-friendly resorts to train travel and conservation projects, sustainability will be woven into the fabric of every journey.

4. Work-Play Wanderlust: Combining Business with Leisure
Remote work and digital nomad visas have blurred the lines between work and play, making “bleisure” travel more popular than ever. Picture yourself finishing a Zoom call at a beachside café in Bali or attending a meeting in a chic Parisian co-working space. In 2025, work and wanderlust will go hand in hand, offering the perfect balance of productivity and adventure.

5. Solo Sojourns: Travel Your Way, On Your Terms
Solo travel is no longer reserved for the fearless few. It’s becoming mainstream as more people seek the freedom and empowerment that comes with traveling alone. Whether it’s for self-discovery, off-the-beaten-path adventures, or just the joy of exploring at your own pace, 2025 will be the year of the solo traveler.

6. Tasty Travels: A Culinary Journey Like No Other
For food lovers, 2025 is set to be a dream come true. Culinary travel is booming, with travelers seeking immersive, food-centric experiences that connect them to a destination’s culture and history. Whether it's taking a cooking class in Tuscany or exploring Bangkok’s street food scene, food tourism will be all about savoring the world through its flavors.

7. Wellbeing Weekenders: Short Getaways for Big Self-Care
In today’s fast-paced world, wellness is becoming a top priority. In 2025, more travelers will opt for quick, rejuvenating escapes that focus on mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation. Think weekend yoga retreats in the mountains or spa getaways by the sea. These short but transformative trips will provide the perfect way to reset, recharge, and reconnect with yourself.

8. Athletic Adventures: From Marathons to Mountain Climbs
For fitness enthusiasts, 2025 will be the year to take travel and athletics to new heights. Whether it’s running a marathon in Berlin or hiking up the French Alps, athletic adventures will be an exciting way to combine travel with fitness. These experiences allow you to challenge your limits while exploring new and breathtaking destinations.

9. Musical Pilgrimages: Travel to the Beat of Your Own Drum
Music lovers, this is your year. In 2025, concerts and festivals will become global adventures. Imagine dancing at Tomorrowland in Belgium or enjoying live performances in the heart of Austin at South by Southwest. Music tourism blends the thrill of live shows with the excitement of traveling to new destinations, creating unforgettable memories along the way.

10. Set-Jetting: Travel Inspired by Film and TV
Ever dreamed of visiting a place from your favorite movie or TV show? In 2025, set-jetting will become a major travel trend. From strolling the charming streets of Paris in Emily in Paris to exploring the stunning landscapes of New Zealand in The Lord of the Rings, travelers will flock to iconic film and TV locations. Set-jetting allows you to blend pop culture with real-life exploration, bringing the magic of film to life.

As we look ahead to 2025, it's clear that travel will continue to evolve, becoming more personalized, immersive, and sustainable. Whether you’re booking a solo adventure, crafting an AI-curated itinerary, or blending work with play, the future of travel holds endless possibilities. So, pack your bags, get ready to explore new horizons, and embark on a journey like never before!