Travel Year-Ender 2025: Top WTA award-winning destinations that outshined the world this year

From Maldives’ turquoise lagoons to Peru’s ancient wonders, these destinations defined global travel trends in 2025.

As 2025 draws to a close, one thing is clear — it has been a landmark year for global travel. With countries like the Philippines and Palau going visa-free for Indians, and travellers shifting towards solo journeys, cultural immersion, island-hopping, wellness escapes, and digital detoxes, the travel map looked refreshingly new.

While explorers chased hidden gems, the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2025 crowned the destinations that truly led the global tourism narrative — from adventure hubs and cultural capitals to honeymoon hotspots and sustainable escapes.

Here’s the complete list of WTA 2025 winners, each with a quick snapshot of why they mattered this year.

Explore 2025’s award-winning destinations — from adventure thrills to romantic escapes, these places captured the world’s travel spotlight.

A land of towering peaks, untouched wilderness, and extreme landscapes, Chile offered adrenaline-packed escapades from Patagonia’s glaciers to Atacama’s desert wonders.

This breathtaking wooden walkway along rugged cliffs and river gorges delivered heart-pounding treks, geological marvels, and unforgettable scenery in Arouca Geopark.

Golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and charming coastal towns made the Algarve a dream escape for sunseekers across the world.

A perfect blend of ancient history, Mediterranean flavours, and vibrant modern culture, Athens continued to charm quick-trip travellers all year.

A lively capital bursting with energy, cultural districts, fusion cuisine, and a booming tourism revival, Manila rose as Asia’s urban star.

Crystal-clear waters, reggae rhythms, welcoming ports, and lush landscapes made Jamaica the ultimate tropical cruise favourite.

Home to millennia-old landmarks and thriving art, Athens stood unmatched as a living museum of global heritage.

Peru impressed food lovers with its bold flavours, ancestral techniques, and world-renowned gastronomy rooted in indigenous traditions and modern innovation.

Mystical ruins, rich Andean culture, and vibrant festivals solidified Peru’s reign as a cultural powerhouse.

The majestic presidential palace offered a stunning look into Emirati heritage, craftsmanship, and statehood with extraordinary architectural brilliance.

Turquoise lagoons, overwater villas, coral reefs, and ultra-luxury stays made Maldives the world’s most coveted travel paradise.

Melaka captivated travellers with its colonial charm, riverside cafés, heritage streets, and rising cultural scene.

Family-friendly beaches, warm hospitality, exciting attractions, and adventure experiences made Jamaica a favourite among global travellers with kids.

The Maldives’ eco-resorts, marine conservation, and sustainable tourism set leadership standards for responsible island travel.

Lima blended rich colonial heritage, archaeological treasures, and dynamic culture, enchanting history lovers from around the world.

Vietnam’s ancient towns, temples, and UNESCO treasures showcased centuries of Indochinese history and architectural beauty.

Romantic beaches, iconic Piton mountains, luxury hideaways, and dreamy sunsets made Saint Lucia heaven for newlyweds.

A colourful seaside wonder, Sunset Town dazzled with Mediterranean-inspired architecture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning coastal views.

Dramatic cliffs, lush landscapes, outdoor adventures, and charming villages made Madeira Europe’s favourite island escape.

Powdery white sands, exclusive resorts, luxury dining, and serene island vibes reaffirmed Boracay as Asia’s luxury jewel.

The iconic Great Migration, endless savannahs, and extraordinary wildlife made Serengeti the world’s most celebrated safari destination.

Sri Lanka charmed travellers with misty mountains, rainforests, wildlife, serene beaches, and unbeatable biodiversity.

Pristine beaches, lush forests, marine life, and eco-adventures turned Phu Quoc into Asia’s fastest-growing nature retreat.

Soft sands, clear waters, and peaceful vibes helped Kem Beach emerge as a rising star in Vietnam’s beach circuit.

Majestic limestone landscapes, ethnic traditions, and ancient heritage made Dong Van a rare cultural treasure.

Rolling tea hills, flower valleys, and cool climates attracted nature lovers seeking tranquillity and scenic beauty.

With incredible wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and legendary national parks, Tanzania remained the world’s premier safari haven.

Azure waters, medieval old town walls, and vibrant cultural life made Dubrovnik Europe’s most enchanting coastal city.

Mega malls, luxury brands, local souks, and unbeatable retail experiences reaffirmed Dubai’s global retail supremacy.

World-class stadiums, major sporting events, and cutting-edge facilities made Doha a global hub for sports travellers.

Record-breaking rides, immersive attractions, and world-class entertainment kept Yas Island at the top for theme park lovers.

The ancient Incan citadel continued to mesmerise visitors with its mystical beauty and breathtaking mountain setting.

Mist-covered hills, cool weather, French-influenced architecture, and scenic trails made Tam Đảo a rising mountain getaway.

Idyllic beaches, turquoise waters, luxury resorts, and postcard-worthy backdrops made The Bahamas the dream wedding spot.

Enchanting jungles, serene beaches, cliffside resorts, and magical sunsets kept Bali unmatched for love-filled getaways.

Alqueva championed sustainable tourism with pristine night skies, eco-conscious initiatives, and world-leading stargazing experiences.