In 2025, Airbnb predicts that travelers will seek out 'unique and unforgettable experiences.'

In 2025, Airbnb predicts that travelers will seek out 'unique and unforgettable experiences.'
In 2025, Airbnb predicts that travelers will seek out 'unique and unforgettable experiences.'

The number of travelers is increasing to pre-Covid levels, as stated by the U.N. Tourism, while Airbnb's annual list of popular destinations shows the international locations that guests are most excited to visit next year.

Airbnb's Editorial Lead, Ali Killam, reveals to CNBC Make It that three major travel trends are expected to shape the new year: experiential travel, group travel, and people venturing to distant destinations.

"Killam states that guests are searching for destinations hosting major events such as concerts, cultural festivals, and sporting events. He adds that guests are increasingly seeking destinations and experiences that are unique and unforgettable."

Travelers are increasingly drawn to off-the-beaten-path beach destinations and cities, according to Airbnb's data.

Cities that provide a cultural immersion experience for guests seeking a unique perspective or to explore a new culture are becoming increasingly popular, according to Killam.

These are Airbnb's 25 destinations to visit in 2025.

The Americas

  • Puerto Escondido, Mexico
  • Green Bay, Wisconsin, United States
  • Charleston, South Carolina, United States
  • Cartagena, Colombia
  • La Serena, Chile
  • Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
  • Mar del Plata, Argentina
  • Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States
  • Florianópolis, Brazil
  • Houston, Texas, United States
  • Brasília, Brazil
  • Jacksonville, Florida, United States

The United States was the only country with five cities on the list.

The NFL draft will be hosted in Green Bay, Wisconsin in April 2025, which is why it's trending on Airbnb data, according to Killam.

Green Bay is a destination for travelers seeking to witness the Green Bay Packers, explore breweries, indulge in chocolatiers, and immerse themselves in Italian markets.

According to Killam, there's a growing trend of individuals seeking out non-urban and non-tourist areas in order to find a slower pace of life, disconnect from technology, and engage with nature.

Houston, Texas is another city that is gaining popularity for business and conference tourism, according to Airbnb data.

The Space Center Houston houses both the Astros baseball team and the science museum.

Europe

  • Palermo, Italy
  • Seville, Spain
  • Bad Staffelstein, Germany
  • Combloux, France
  • Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
  • Les Deux Alpes, France

Nuremberg, Germany, is home to Bad Staffelstein, a charming small town that offers a unique travel experience for those seeking destinations beyond the typical tourist hotspots.

The renowned thermal salt water baths are what make Staffelstein a well-liked wellness retreat destination.

"Cyclists and hikers will appreciate the scenic trails and mountain views surrounding the area, making it a great destination to get off the grid, according to Killam."

Asia

  • Tokyo, Japan
  • Kyoto, Japan
  • Mumbai, India
  • Hua Hin, Thailand
  • Chiang Mai, Thailand

The number of searches for Thailand has increased since the announcement that season three of HBO's popular series "White Lotus" would be filmed in the country, according to Killam.

This year, searches for family and group travel in Chiang Mai, a filming location, have already increased, according to Airbnb data.

In 2024, travel to Japan increased and is predicted to continue in 2025. The trend is particularly evident in Kyoto, which is popular among family travelers and Gen Z.

She remarks that it is renowned for being a hub of traditional Japanese culture and is increasingly recognized as a destination that provides an immersive cultural experience.

Australasia

  • Manly, New South Wales, Australia
  • Whitsundays, Queensland, Australia

A relaxed coastal environment close to a major city can be found just 11 miles from Sydney, Australia, in Manly. This popular surfing destination is also home to several beaches.

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by Celia Fernandez

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