Lonely Planet is one of the world’s leading guidebook companies, and there’s always a lot of anticipation surrounding their annual list of the top travel destinations. They shared the list of cities and countries worth visiting next year, in case you’re looking for some travel inspiration for 2025.
Lonely Planet took several factors into consideration when compiling its list of the hottest cities, countries, and regions worth exploring in 2025. Their topicality, unique experiences, and “wow factor” played a crucial role, along with their ongoing commitment to sustainability, community, and diversity.
Lonely Planet made sure to include destinations from all around the globe, choosing Cameroon as their No. 1 pick among countries, due to its pristine beaches, lively nightlife, and quiet national parks. Lithuania, Fiji, Laos, and Kazakhstan also made it to the top five.
When it comes to cities worth checking out next year, Toulouse, France is Lonely Planet’s top pick for 2025. The company’s content and executive editor Nitya Chambers told CNN it’s “a perfect weekend break destination, a real labyrinth of a city with art galleries, upcycled industrial venues (and) cafes.”
Lonely Planet’s list of the top cities also includes Pondicherry in India, Bansko in Bulgaria, Chiang Mai in Thailand, and Genoa in Italy, so check the rest of it out and discover some more countries, cities, and regions worth visiting in 2025.
Lonely Planet‘s Top 2025 Cities:
Toulouse, France
Pondicherry, India
Bansko, Bulgaria
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Genoa, Italy
Pittsburgh, USA
Osaka, Japan
Curitiba, Brazil
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Edmonton, Canada
Lonely Planet‘s Top 2025 Countries:
Cameroon
Lithuania
Fiji
Laos
Kazakhstan
Paraguay
Trinidad & Tobago
Vanuatu
Slovakia
Armenia
Lonely Planet‘s Top 2025 Regions:
Low Country and Coastal Georgia
The Terai, Nepal
Chiriqui, Panama
Launceston and the Tamar Valley, Australia
Valais, Switzerland
Giresun and Ordu, Turkiye
Bavaria, Germany
East Anglia, England
Jordan Trail
Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, Oregon