Millions of holidaymakers jetted around the world this year to explore dreamy destinations, tick off their bucket lists and follow the latest travel trends.
Young travellers took to seeking local experiences instead of traditional beach holidays, according to previous research by the Association of National Tourist Offices and Representatives (Antor).
Solo travelling also took off for more youthful holidaymakers, and tourists turned to high-end trips and long-haul ‘discovery’ locations.
Meanwhile, nearly one fifth of 25 to 34-year-olds went on a cruise in the last 12 months, according to UK travel association Abta.
As travel trends shift and new locations move into the spotlight, Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025 has revealed some of the top destinations of the year.
The travel review site has collated a list of the spots that have received ‘a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews’ over the last 12 months.
Out of the eight million listings on Tripadvisor, only one per cent have managed to secure the badge of excellence from the site.
London claimed the top spot and impressed with its historic landmarks, bustling streets and food and drink scene.
London claimed the top spot in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025 and impressed with its historic landmarks, bustling streets and food and drink scene
Bali placed second on Tripadvisor’s list, and is dubbed a ‘living postcard’
Tripadvisor describes the capital as ‘many worlds in one’ and claims ‘no two days are the same’ there.
Travellers can take in the sights on a river cruise on the Thames, or learn new things at the Natural History Museum.
From the London Eye to Big Ben, not forgetting the quirky shops in Camden to the market along Portobello Road, there is so much to explore.
Bali placed second on Tripadvisor’s list, and is dubbed a ‘living postcard’.
With endless white sand beaches and crystal clear waters to dip into, this tropical paradise is the perfect destination for a relaxing break.
Packed with luxurious shopping malls, hot weather and dazzling landscapes, Dubai ranked third.
Tripadvisor recommends watching a performance at the Dubai Opera, or for a more thrilling adventure, hopping in a hot air balloon above the desert.
Elsewhere, Sicily placed fourth and the Italian island has plenty to offer for holidaymakers.
Packed with luxurious shopping malls, hot weather and dazzling landscapes, Dubai ranked third
From mountainous landscapes to a picturesque coastline, visitors won’t be disappointed.
Another European destination, Paris, placed fifth and boasts icons like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and The Louvre.
Tripadvisor urges travellers to check out other aspects of the city, too, like the cafes and eateries, as well as the many ‘grand boulevards’.
Meanwhile, Rome, Hanoi, Marrakech, Crete and Bangkok all finished off the top ten.
