13 Emerging Travel Destinations To Explore In 2025 — Before the Crowds Arrive

Tired of vacationing in places that feel more like a tourist trap than an escape? The most memorable travel experiences often come from exploring lesser-known gems that still fly under the radar — but not for long. Whether you're craving adventure, culture or a quiet retreat, these rising destinations promise immersive experiences without the overwhelming crowds.

We’ve rounded up 13 global destinations that are gaining momentum in 2025, based on travel trends, hotel developments and local investment in tourism infrastructure. From alpine villages to American cultural hubs, these are the places to go before everyone else catches on — listed in alphabetical order.

Skip the beaches and head inland to Adelaide Hills, South Australia’s lush wine country. Just a short drive from Adelaide city, this region is known for charming villages, award-winning vineyards and cool-climate wines. You can taste shiraz at boutique wineries, hike scenic trails, or linger at a farm-to-table café in a village like Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement.

Seattle’s sophisticated sibling, Bellevue is stepping into the spotlight after its most successful tourism year to date in 2024. In the past year alone, the city welcomed 80 new restaurants, a five-star InterContinental hotel and sustainable experiences like electric lake cruises and an all-electric rideshare system called The Bellhop. Coming soon: the East Link light rail will connect Sea-Tac Airport, Bellevue and Seattle in minutes. Add in easy access to kayaking, paddleboarding and culinary walking tours, and Bellevue is emerging as the Pacific Northwest’s most progressive — and walkable — destination.

Want the glamor of the Greek Isles without the crowds? Bodrum delivers with its mix of history, nightlife and luxury. Tour Bodrum Castle, relax in the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, or dive among vibrant coral reefs. This coastal town on the Turkish Riviera blends the cultural richness of the ancient world with modern Mediterranean indulgence — all with fewer tourists than nearby islands.

Italy is all the rage these days. And sure, you can head to big tourist cities like Florence, Venice and Rome (where you'll find plenty to do).

But explorers and slow travelers might prefer to skip the crowds and head to Cervo, a cliffside village in the Italian Riviera that boasts Michelin-starred dining, designer boutiques and old-world charm. With its medieval alleys and pastel buildings, Cervo offers all the romance of coastal Italy — without the inflated prices or cruise ship congestion. It’s a quiet Mediterranean escape where you can still find authenticity (and affordable wine).

The Ozarks are having a moment, offering the kind of affordable, outdoorsy adventure that today’s travelers crave. Here, you can kayak through waterfalls at Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, explore the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium (founded by Bass Pro Shops’ Johnny Morris), or take in panoramic views at Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve. Whether you're into caving, fishing, or simply soaking up nature, the Ozarks are a scenic Midwest escape worth discovering.

Japan continues to top travel wish lists — and Niseko, on the island of Hokkaido, is one of its most alluring yet lesser-known destinations. Famous for powdery slopes and ski-in-ski-out resorts, Niseko also shines in the off-season with hot springs (onsen), mountain biking and farm-to-table dining. It’s a top pick for winter sports enthusiasts and wellness travelers alike.

San Antonio blends history, culture, food and family fun — all without the price tag of other major U.S. cities.

Start the day with pan dulce and coffee at La Panadería, then tour the Alamo. Rest your feet with a ride a GO RIO riverboat cruise to learn the city’s history from the water, and grab lunch at the adorably pink Box Street All Day.

For drinks, try the whiskey tasting flights at Devil’s River Distillery, or imbibe while gazing at funky modern art at Hopscotch Gallery.

Beyond the main tourist area surrounding the city's iconic River Walk, you might head out a bit farther to San Antonio's Pearl District, where you'll find hip shops and restaurants. Dine at the Pullman Market food hall if you're tight on time, or go for a multi-course meal at Best Quality Daughter, which serves Asian-American fusion food.

Of course, don't skip the city's strong Tex-Mex culture. San Antonio institution Mi Tierra Café & Bakery does it best with colorful decor, cultura and legendary pan dulce.

This colorful city of colonial architecture and cobblestone charm is a magnet for artists, expats and now younger travelers. Booking among Gen Z and millennials rose 400% from 2019 to 2023, according to travel industry reports. It’s easy to see why: mezcal bars, art galleries, rooftop brunch spots and beautiful boutique hotels make San Miguel a cultural feast. Once a Pueblo Mágico, it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and still one of Mexico’s most affordable romantic getaways.

Known for its thriving art scene, desert beauty and Pueblo-style architecture, Santa Fe continues to captivate. The upcoming Georgia O’Keeffe Museum rebuild is generating buzz, while Meow Wolf offers 70 rooms of immersive, mind-bending art. Whether you’re hiking in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains or browsing artisanal goods on Canyon Road, Santa Fe remains one of the most unique cities in the U.S.

The Maldives tend to get all the love among travelers seeking crystal clear waters and sandy beaches. But there’s a similar archipelago in the Indian Ocean that you shouldn’t overlook.

Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, offers turquoise lagoons, coral reefs and quiet beaches — often at lower prices than its more famous rival. You’ll also find more nature-focused experiences: think hiking in Vallée de Mai, giant tortoise sightings and eco-conscious luxury resorts that lean into sustainability. It’s exotic, romantic and remarkably less crowded.

If you’re visiting the Caribbean consider Saint Kitts and Nevis. On the two islands (which are considered one country), you’ll find lush rainforests, soft sand and turquoise waters. Activities include exploring the island's colonial past at Brimstone Hill Fortress, (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) or wandering the colorful streets of its capital, Basseterre.

You might also bathe in the hot springs or climb Mount Liamuiga, the island's highest peak.

Often called the "Venice of the East", Udaipur dazzles with its palaces, lakes and historic bazaars. Ride a boat across Lake Pichola, shop for hand-embroidered textiles and silver jewelry, or dine inside former royal residences. For an active day trip, hike to Mehrangarh Fort, perched high above Jodhpur. Udaipur combines regal grandeur and local flavor in a way few cities do.

Ski by day, sip fondue by night. The alpine village of Zermatt — home of the Matterhorn — offers year-round skiing, with national teams training here in summer. Its car-free streets and traditional chalets make it one of the most photogenic spots in Switzerland. If you want to beat the crowds and prices of St. Moritz, Zermatt is your best bet.