Greek island expected to be the next big thing in 2025 – with much quieter beaches and new hotels

GREEK islands abound, with Santorini and Mykonos some of the most popular holiday destinations in the world.

But a new study has named the island of Paros as a popular destination for next year.

Paphos named a popular destination for 2025Credit: Getty

Paphos is often overlooked in favor of neighboring MykonosCredit: Getty

American Express Travel included the island on its list of trending destinations for 2025.

Analyzing travel bookings and also working with global travel consultants, the island was one of the few European destinations to make the list.

The website states: “Laid-back Paros has become the Greek island of choice for many.

“The cultural scene is vibrant here, and the rocky coastline is filled with beaches, secluded coves and sea caves.

“Just a 40-minute flight from Athens – or three hours by ferry – this windblown retreat is also easy to get to.”

Around 200,000 people visit Santorini each year – just 10% of the annual tourists who go to Santorini.

This means you can expect the island to be much quieter and off the beaten track.

It’s famous for a few things. This includes its marble, considered the best in antiquity, but there are also other attractions, including its numerous beaches.

The town of Naoussa is the second largest town on the island and has been called the “smaller version of Mykonos”.

Expect incredible seafood when you’re there too, with most of it caught fresh before being served

How to visit two Greek islands in one holiday – with stunning rooms with private pools

However, it is also undergoing some new changes.

The island’s airport is expanding its terminal and runway, which will allow for better travel infrastructure.

The €41 million project is expected to be completed by 2026.

New hotels are also emerging.

This includes the Andronis boutique, which opened earlier this year, and a new Canaves Collection resort following its success in Santorini.

You can fly there from Athens or take a ferry from the islandsCredit: Alamy

The streets are similar to those in SantoriniCredit: Alamy

Last year, professional travel planner Jennifer Greene said Paros was on the rise.

She added: “The lack of an international airport tends to keep things that way, but a gentle influx of swanky new hotels is attracting more tourists.”

American Express also named Brittany, France as a hot spot.

They included the destination because of its “distinctive culture, coastal landscapes and miles of seaside walking trails, such as the GR34 trail.”

Mont-Saint-Michel is one of the most famous attractions in the region, located in the bay shared by Normandy and Brittany.

One beach that has become popular with tourists because of its long stretch of beach, stunning views, and calm waters is Plage de Tahiti.

The ferry is a popular option for traveling from the UK to Brittany – with routes from Plymouth and Poole.

American Express Travel’s Trending Destinations for 2025

Brisbane, Australia – located between the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Brisbane offers excellent museums as well as vibrant restaurants and nightlife.
Brittany France – Distinctive culture, coastal scenery and miles of seaside trails like the GR34 trail top the list of reasons to visit the Brittany region.
Franschhoek, South Africa – Franschhoek, the mountain-ringed jewel of the Cape Winelands, is an ideal complement to a safari holiday with almost 50 wineries, farm-to-table restaurants and walks.
Koh Samui, Thailand – Koh Samui, at 88 square miles, offers a dreamy combination of lush jungle, white sand beaches and turquoise waters, perfect for active travelers or those looking to relax. The island will be featured in a popular TV show scheduled to air next year and is sure to inspire air travelers.
Macau, China – Although the Historic Center of Macau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the local Cantonese-Portuguese fusion cuisine is a must-try for foodies, the large casinos are the reason why this densely populated peninsula, known as the “Las Vegas do Oriente,” has several award-winning restaurants.
Moab, United States – As the gateway to Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks, Moab is a perfect starting point for exploring the American Southwest. Travelers come for world-class rafting, mountain biking, and canyon hiking—or simply to enjoy the red rock scenery.
Nikko, Japan – This mountain retreat tucked away in the mostly rural Tochigi Prefecture combines elements of Kyoto and Mt. Fuji, with photogenic waterfalls and abundant hiking trails.
Paros, Greece – Laid-back Paros has become the Greek island of choice for many, with a vibrant cultural scene and a rocky coastline dotted with beaches, secluded coves and sea caves.
São Paulo, Brazil – This multi-ethnic city is one of South America’s great cultural destinations and is home to a rich architectural heritage and some of the best museums, street art and local fashion on the continent.
Sun Valley, Idaho, United States – With fewer crowds than other Western ski resorts, Sun Valley attracts premium travelers and outdoor enthusiasts every day. During the summer months, travelers can enjoy trout fishing, rafting, mountain biking and more.