Lonely Planet names the top 30 destinations to visit in 2025 – and they might not be where you expect

Lonely Planet has revealed its best-in-class travel list for 2025, with trending Toulouse in France taking the top spot for a city break.

In the 15th edition of Lonely Planet’s “Best in Travel” favorites list, the trusted travel guide showcased 30 popular destinations, from regions to countries and cities, as well as the trips to take in the new year.

This year, the focus is on lesser-known “gems” and “new versions” of tourist spots around the world, as the brand encourages travelers to be more attentive.

The top ten cities, countries and regions were chosen based on several categories, including their timeliness, unique experiences, “wow factor” and ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and diversity.

In addition to Toulouse’s bustling canal banks, Lonely Planet recommends Puducherry in India for sunbathers on its list of best cities, and Bansko in Bulgaria is famous for its accessible ski slopes.

With pristine beaches, lively nightlife and tranquil national parks, Cameroon ranked first among countries, followed by culturally rich Lithuania and Fiji’s marine protected areas.

Topping the list of best regions, the Lowcountry of South Carolina and Georgia was hailed for its vibrant food scene and complex history, followed by the Terai region of Nepal – the birthplace of the Buddha.

As for the UK entries, the region of East Anglia, which comprises Suffolk, Norfolk, Essex and Cambridgeshire, made the list for its half-timbered houses, artsy wool towns and beach-adorned coastline.

Visit England chief executive Patricia Yates said: “It’s fantastic to see East Anglia take its place on the global stage as one of the top regions in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025. And it’s no surprise that the area has an exceptional coastline , fabulous seaside towns, historic attractions, canals and breathtaking landscapes.

“This award will encourage national and international visitors to explore the region further and discover the warm welcome that awaits them.”

Nitya Chambers, Executive Editor at Lonely Planet, said: “Best in Travel 2025 is the latest edition of Lonely Planet’s annual love letter to the world. While mindful of our responsibilities and impact as travelers, we are proud of the destinations, trips and experiences featured here and are excited to share the local expertise and vision that is at the heart of these recommendations.”

The Best in Lonely Planet Travel 2025

The 10 best cities

1. Toulouse, France

2. Pondicherry, India

3. Bansko, Bulgaria

4. Chiang Mai, Thailand

5. Genoa, Italy

6. Pittsburgh, USA

7. Osaka, Japan

8. Curitiba, Brazil

9. Palma de Mallorca, Spain

10. Edmonton, Canada

The 10 best countries

1. Cameroon

2. Lithuania

3. Fiji

4. Laos

5. Kazakhstan

6. Paraguay

7. Trinidad and Tobago

8. Vanuatu

9. Slovakia

10. Armenia

The 10 best regions

1. Low Country and Coastal Georgia of South Carolina, USA

2. The Terai, Nepal

3. Chiriquí, Panama

4. Launceston and the Tamar Valley, Australia

5. Valais, Switzerland

6. Giresun & Ordu, Türkiye

7. Bavaria, Germany

8. East Anglia, England

9. Jordan Trail

10. Mount Hood and Columbia River Gorge region, Oregon, USA

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