Our 12 Most Popular Travel Destinations for 2025: Trip Ideas, Itineraries, and More

Italy retains its crown as the most sought-after destination in Zicasso's portfolio. The magnetism of storied landmarks and beloved regions remains potent, with the Amalfi Coast leading requests. Vertiginous cliffs meet azure waters, while pastel-tinted villages like Positano and Ravello adorn mountainsides, presenting a fusion of Mediterranean allure and refined indulgence.

While classic Italian journeys remain vital, an evolution in seasonal preferences brings more travelers in March and April as they seek more intimate encounters. October has blossomed into a new peak period as travelers uncover the joys of autumn in Italy. This transformation reflects a sophistication among visitors who yearn to savor Italy's diverse offerings beyond conventional summer months.

The northern realm of Piedmont draws mounting attention, particularly from epicureans and wine enthusiasts. This sophisticated region unfolds with hillsides draped in prestigious vineyards producing Barolo and Barbaresco wines, white truffle-laden forests around Alba, and magnificent Baroque architecture in Turin. With Italy showing growth in popularity since our last report, it's evident classic highlights and rising destinations fortify the country's standing as a premier travel haven.

Top places to visit: Rome • Florence • Puglia • Amalfi Coast • Sicily

Trip idea: Immerse yourself in Italy's ancient splendor on Zicasso’s 12-Day Luxury Italy: Rome, Sicily, & the Amalfi Coast, featuring exclusive tours of Renaissance art, gleaming mosaics, traditional cuisine, and stunning landscapes along the Amalfi Coast.

Learn more: Italy Travel Guide • Italy Tours & Trips

Greece upholds its standing as a coveted getaway globally and in Europe, securing second place. The mesmerizing isle of Santorini stands as a jewel of Greek tourism, where azure-domed churches and alabaster villages cascade down volcanic precipices, offering legendary sunsets and refined wine culture. Crete, now equally in demand, delights visitors with its Minoan legacy, unspoiled shores, and mountain hamlets where age-old customs flourish.

Travel rhythms show fascinating shifts as people uncover the rewards of visiting Greece beyond traditional peak periods. March and April gain favor, offering mild temperatures and spring blooms carpeting ancient ruins. October has evolved into a quieter interlude, affording more personal encounters with Greek treasures away from summer crowds.

Recording an uptick in popularity with travelers, Greece enthralls those seeking famed sites and hidden wonders. From wandering the winding lanes of Crete's historic Chania to watching dusk paint the Aegean from Santorini's caldera rim, Greece presents timeless magnetism that resonates with luxury seekers yearning to connect with Western civilization's cradle.

Top places to visit: Athens • Santorini • Rhodes • Crete • Naxos • Nafplio

Trip idea: Embark on our Greek Island Itinerary for the Ages: Crete, Santorini, Milos, & More, a 13-day odyssey from Athens to Milos, where Ancient Greek monuments, Mediterranean cuisine, and sun-drenched island shores weave together an unforgettable exploration of history and natural beauty.

Learn more: Greece Travel Guide • Greece Tours & Vacations

Spain ascends to third position from fourth. From Barcelona's avant-garde wonders to Andalusia's Moorish grandeur, the nation presents an intoxicating mix of cultural riches.

A notable transformation marks seasonal preferences, with October becoming a prime period for Spanish exploration. During this time, you can savor the country's treasures under gentle autumn light, perfect for meandering through Madrid's stately avenues or sampling vintages in La Rioja's undulating vineyards. Pleasant temperatures and diminished crowds create ideal conditions for immersion in Spain's rich cultural heritage.

March has emerged as a coveted shoulder season, inviting visitors to discover Spain's varied offerings before peak season arrives. Whether admiring almond blossoms in Mallorca, exploring Toledo's medieval quarters, or delving into Seville's tapas culture, springtime offers an intimate glimpse into genuine Spanish life, drawing those seeking deeper cultural connections.

Top places to visit: Barcelona • Madrid • Seville • Mallorca • Toledo

Trip idea: Discover Spain's cultural treasures on a personalized 13-day journey, from San Sebastián's acclaimed cuisine to La Rioja's wines, medieval towns, and Barcelona's architectural splendor on Zicasso’s Authentic Culinary & Culture Luxury Tour of Spain

Learn more: Spain Travel Guide • Spain Tours & Vacations

France has bounded to fourth place from fifth, reflecting the enduring pull of a nation that artfully balances iconic sites with hidden gems, drawing newcomers and seasoned visitors in search of fresh discoveries.

The trend of venturing beyond Paris gains momentum as travelers increasingly view the capital as a gateway to France's varied landscapes rather than their primary focus. The sun-blessed terrain of Provence retains its allure, where purple swathes of lavender paint the countryside and hilltop villages stand sentinel, while the glamorous Côte d'Azur enchants with its blend of sophisticated resorts and tucked-away medieval enclaves.

Interest flourishes in France's celebrated wine regions, with the Loire Valley's regal châteaux and Burgundy's timeless villages proving particularly magnetic. These regions invite you to step into living history, whether staying in restored fortresses, visiting family vineyards, or wandering cobblestone lanes that echo centuries past. This fusion of heritage depth, gastronomic excellence, and genuine encounters reinforces France's position as a premier luxury destination.

Top places to visit: Provence • Côte d'Azure • Loire Valley • Burgundy

Trip idea: Traverse France's hidden treasures on a 10-Day France Without Crowds self-drive adventure from Chablis through volcanic landscapes and wine regions to Bordeaux, discovering rural charm, local flavors, and pastoral beauty in the Dordogne Valley.

Learn more: France Travel Guide • Best France Tours

Australia has climbed to fifth place from seventh, showcasing this vast continent's mounting appeal. The Great Barrier Reef leads visitor requests, offering encounters with the world's largest coral reef system through exclusive ventures, from private yacht excursions to aerial tours over crystalline waters teeming with marine life.

A notable pattern emerges in how travelers engage with Australia's natural splendors, as wildlife and nature expeditions command extended stays for deeper discovery. Whether tracking rare species in Tasmania, watching twilight transform Uluru's ancient silhouette, or finding hidden cascades in the Daintree Rainforest, these longer journeys allow meaningful connections with Australia's distinctive ecosystems.

The synthesis of adventure and refinement defines Australian journeys, with luxurious lodgings seamlessly woven into wilderness settings. Cultural immersion, particularly focusing on First Nations heritage and traditions, generates exceptional satisfaction. This blend of culture, natural majesty, and sophisticated comfort establishes Australia as a leading destination if you are seeking transformative South Pacific adventures.

Top places to visit: Sydney • Melbourne • Great Barrier Reef • Uluru • Great Ocean Road

Trip idea: Experience the Essentials of Australia for 14 Days will take you through the country’s highlights, from the vibrant Great Barrier Reef and ochre landscapes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta to the sophisticated urban scenes of Melbourne and Sydney's iconic harbor.

Learn more: Australia Travel Guide • Australia Tours & Trips

Portugal has left eighth place behind to take up position six, highlighting growing recognition of this beguiling nation that interweaves history, natural splendor, and modern flair. From mainland Portugal's perennial appeal to mounting interest in the Azores, a volcanic archipelago boasting dramatic vistas, thermal pools, and pristine hiking trails, the country draws visitors seeking genuine European encounters.

The nation's magnetism stems from its balance of old and new, where ancient monasteries and hand-painted azulejo tiles stand alongside cutting-edge design and innovative gastronomy. In Porto and Lisbon, weave through narrow medieval passages before dining at stellar restaurants, while the Douro Valley beckons with terraced vineyards and historic quintas offering refined wine encounters.

Beyond familiar paths, the Azores beckon if you are looking for luxury. These untouched islands present extraordinary possibilities, from whale watching in pristine Atlantic waters to exploring crater lakes and unwinding in geothermal springs. This combination of mainland Portugal's sophisticated heritage and the Azores' raw natural grandeur elevates the country's desirability among discerning wanderers.

Top places to visit: Lisbon • Porto • Alentejo • Azores

Trip idea: Zicasso’s Pure Portugal Fun: Azores to Porto Tour will have you exploring the country’s treasures on a 13-day journey from the azure Azores archipelago to Porto's historic streets, packed with iconic sights and adventures.

Learn more: Portugal Travel Guide • Portugal Tours & Vacations

At seventh place, Scotland will ignite your imagination with its powerful mix of striking landscapes and rich heritage. From Edinburgh's historic Royal Mile to the mist-veiled Highland peaks, the country offers immersive journeys through a land where time-honored customs thrive in modern life.

A growing desire for genuine Scottish encounters extends beyond typical tourist routes. Visitors increasingly seek meaningful cultural connections, from joining traditional gatherings and sampling whisky at family distilleries to lodging in historic castles transformed into luxury retreats. This quest for authenticity encompasses Scotland's vibrant arts scene and encounters with communities in remote Highland villages.

Pop culture significantly shapes how travelers explore Scotland, with film locations and literary connections sparking regional interest. Whether tracing beloved characters' paths through the Highlands or visiting castles featured in popular shows, visitors craft journeys around these cultural touchstones. This fusion of heritage, genuine encounters, and media influence solidify Scotland's draw for those seeking deeper connections.

Top places to visit: Edinburgh • Scottish Highlands • Isle of Skye • Inverness

Trip idea: Experience Scotland's raw beauty on the Amazing Scotland Tour: Charming City to Wild Highlights, a 13-day journey from Edinburgh's capital grandeur to the Moray Firth's coastal charm, weaving through dramatic scenery and historic sites that showcase the nation's rich heritage

Learn more: Scotland Travel Guide • Scotland Tours, Vacations, & Travel Packages

New Zealand maintains its top-10 status, drawing visitors with its striking fusion of natural marvels and bold pursuits. The most coveted locations showcase the country's diverse allure: Queenstown's alpine grandeur and pulse-racing activities, Abel Tasman's golden shores and turquoise waters, Fiordland National Park's majestic sounds and wilderness paths, and Rotorua's unique blend of geothermal wonders and Māori cultural heritage.

Though summer claims three-quarters of visitor preferences, the shoulder seasons reveal their distinct charms to growing numbers of travelers. Spring, from September to November in the Southern Hemisphere, presents snow-capped summits, wildflower meadows, and newborn lambs dotting pastoral scenes, while autumn, from March to April, unfolds in spectacular color against azure skies, with prized solitude at popular spots.

Wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and adventurous pursuits define the New Zealand journey. Whether observing sperm whales off Kaikoura, participating in Māori ceremonies, or blending helicopter excursions with luxury lodge stays, the country excels at crafting transformative moments to connect you with nature and local heritage.

Top places to visit: Queenstown • Rotorua • Fiordland National Park • Abel Tasman National Park

Trip idea: Immersive New Zealand Exploration: 2-Week South Island Tour will see you journeying through New Zealand's South Island on a two-week adventure during which expert guides reveal Middle Earth magic, glacial lakes, dramatic coastlines, and majestic fiords through customizable outdoor excursions.

Learn more: New Zealand Travel Guide • New Zealand Tours & Vacations

Iceland retains its 10th position, mesmerizing visitors with otherworldly terrain and natural spectacles. From the ethereal Northern Lights dancing across winter skies to endless summer daylight, the Land of Fire and Ice presents phenomena that seem supernatural, drawing travelers to volcanic shores, glacier-carved fjords, and steaming thermal springs.

The nation's distinctive appeal lies in melding raw wilderness with refined comfort. Spend days venturing through ice caves and traversing ancient glaciers before retiring to stylish hotels and innovative restaurants showcasing New Nordic cuisine. This contrast between untamed landscapes and sophisticated hospitality resonates deeply with discerning visitors.

Year-round interest flourishes in Iceland's diverse offerings, each season bringing unique attractions. Summer offers endless light perfect for exploring Highland interiors and remote fjords, while winter invites cozy evenings in thermal lagoons beneath star-filled skies. Whether circling the island on the Ring Road or witnessing volcanic power, Iceland delivers the kind of remarkable moments that define luxury adventure.

Top places to visit: Reykjavík • Golden Circle • Vatnajökull National Park • Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Trip idea: Experience Iceland's dramatic contrasts on a personalized journey through black-sand beaches, towering glaciers, and the ethereal Northern Lights during Untamed Iceland: Signature Tour in 8 Days

Learn more: Iceland Travel Guide • Iceland Tours & Vacations

The Kingdom of Thailand reflects shifting travel rhythms across Southeast Asia, as traditional seasonal boundaries dissolve. While historically divided between peak and quiet periods, Thailand now draws a steady stream of visitors year-round, as travelers uncover the unique charms each season brings to this multifaceted land.

Peak travel periods show notable evolution, with September and October gaining prominence as preferred months for Thai exploration. During these times, you can savor the nation's treasures under ideal conditions, whether gliding through Bangkok's temple-lined waterways or sailing between Andaman coast islands. Traditional high seasons of June to August and November to December shift, offering you more flexibility in planning your journey.

This redistribution of seasonal travel reflects deeper appreciation for Thailand's varied charms. Visitors increasingly value each period's distinct offerings, from dramatic monsoon skies above ancient ruins to intimate moments at beloved sites during quieter times. The shoulder seasons of May to June and September, once overlooked, now reveal their unique appeal to those seeking genuine encounters away from peak crowds.

Top places to visit: Bangkok • Andaman Coast • Chiang Mai • Koh Samui

Trip idea: On Zicasso’s Enchanted Highlights of Thailand Tour, indulge in a 12-day luxury journey from Chiang Mai's misty mountains to Krabi's pristine beaches, blending opulent resort experiences with cultural immersion and encounters with untamed nature.

Learn more: Thailand Travel Guide • Best Thailand Tours, Vacations, & Travel Packages

This diverse nation enthralls luxury seekers, with Cape Town and the Kruger National Park among the most sought-after African destinations. Cape Town's striking fusion of dramatic scenery, world-class dining, and rich heritage complements Kruger's unmatched wildlife encounters, offering outstanding value in luxury travel.

A marked shift toward sustainable luxury unfolds as travelers prioritize eco-conscious lodging and responsible wildlife viewing. This aligns perfectly with South Africa's leadership in conservation-focused safaris, though it necessitates longer advance bookings for premier lodges. Wildlife viewing opportunities now guide travel timing more than seasonal patterns, with travelers planning around optimal game-sighting conditions.

Travel preferences evolve toward journeys that blend wildlife encounters with cultural discovery. Visitors seek beyond traditional safaris, pursuing opportunities to connect with local communities, explore historic sites, and understand South Africa's diverse cultural mosaic. Whether participating in conservation projects or exploring Cape Winelands' heritage, the focus falls on creating layered experiences that reveal South Africa's complete narrative.

Top places to visit: Cape Town • Kruger National Park • Cape Winelands • Garden Route

Trip idea: Experience South Africa's diverse splendors on a tranquil Luxury South Africa Tour for Seniors, weaving together 14 days of thrilling safari encounters, Cape Town's landmarks, coastal whale watching, and the sensual pleasures of the Cape Winelands.

Learn more: South Africa Travel Guide • Best South Africa Tours & Vacations

Germany draws culture-focused visitors, with rising interest in cities showcasing its rich musical and artistic legacy. Bayreuth and Leipzig particularly shine for those venturing beyond Berlin and Munich's well-trodden paths, offering intimate encounters with Germany's profound cultural heritage.

Bayreuth, forever linked to Richard Wagner and his legendary festival theater, beckons with Baroque grandeur and immersive musical encounters. Leipzig, the historic home to Bach and Mendelssohn, captivates with its magnificent Thomaskirche, where Bach served as cantor, alongside its vibrant contemporary arts scene. These smaller cities invite you to experience world-class performances in historic venues while discovering genuine German life.

This gravitation toward cultural gems mirrors luxury travelers' broader quest for places blending historical significance with living traditions. Whether attending Bayreuth's Festspielhaus performances, exploring Leipzig's centuries-old coffee houses, or visiting halls that shaped classical music history, you will discover rich rewards beyond familiar tourist circuits.

Top places to visit: Munich • Berlin • Dresden • Bayreuth • Leipzig

Trip idea: Medieval Tour of German Castles is a two-week journey through Germany's living history. Sleep in cliff-perched castles and explore cobblestone villages, alpine fortresses, and enchanting mountain hamlets.

Learn more: Germany Travel Guide • Best Germany Tours, Vacations, & Travel Packages

From shifting seasonal preferences and sustainable practices to deeper cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, these destinations showcase the changing face of premium travel while maintaining their timeless allure. Each location, whether a perennial favorite like Italy or a rising star like Portugal's Azores, offers distinctive ways to experience the intersection of heritage, nature, and refined comfort.

For more inspiration and detailed insights into planning your perfect journey through any of these remarkable destinations, explore our best places to travel by month or our where to go by season travel guide.