The World’s Greatest Places of 2025, According to TIME
Get ready to pack your bags! TIME has unveiled its highly anticipated list of the 100 greatest places to visit in 2025. From breathtaking natural wonders to luxurious resorts and groundbreaking attractions, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences for travelers worldwide.
Top Destinations to Explore in 2025
United States
- Waldorf Astoria New York – The iconic 94-year-old Manhattan hotel is making a grand comeback with 357 redesigned guest suites, set to reopen this spring.
- Ocmulgee Mounds, Georgia – A prehistoric Native American site on its way to becoming Georgia’s first national park. Visit before the crowds arrive!
Caribbean & South America
- Sandals Resort, St. Vincent & The Grenadines – This luxury resort opened last year in Buccament, offering a stunning mountain and sea backdrop along with a massive 300-foot pool.
- Magdalena River, Colombia – Travelers can now explore this majestic river via a seven-night luxury cruise by Ama Waterways, sailing between Cartagena and Barranquilla.
Europe
- Port Ellen Distillery, Scotland – The legendary “ghost” whisky distillery on Islay has reopened after four decades, offering premium tasting experiences.
- Notre Dame, Paris – Following its devastating 2019 fire, the cathedral has been fully restored, standing as a testament to architectural authenticity.
- Tiny Seaside Resorts, Denmark – The newly opened Loddenhøj and Skarrev resorts in South Jutland provide modernist micro-homes perfect for a cozy coastal getaway.
Africa
- NamibRand Nature Reserve, Namibia – Africa’s first Wilderness Quiet Park, ideal for stargazing and escaping modern noise.
- Culinary Innovation Village, Rwanda – Chef Dieuveil Malonga’s Afro-fusion dining experience showcases flavors from across the continent.
Asia & Australia
- Nintendo Museum, Japan – Opened in Uji last October, this museum is a dream destination for gaming enthusiasts, featuring vintage consoles and iconic game history.
- Nangma Valley, Pakistan – Dubbed “Pakistan’s Yosemite,” this remote hiking paradise is drawing adventurous travelers back to the region.
- The Ghan Train, Australia – A 75-hour luxury train journey through the outback, offering a spectacular way to experience the rugged landscape.
The Future of Air Travel
Revolutionary Aircraft Designs
- JetZero’s ‘Blended Wing’ Airplane – This futuristic, nacho-shaped aircraft promises 50% more fuel efficiency and could carry over 250 passengers. Expected to be in commercial operation by 2030.
- Boom XB-1 Supersonic Jet – America’s first civil supersonic aircraft broke the sound barrier earlier this year, bringing us one step closer to high-speed travel by 2029.
- Airbus A321XLR – This new fuel-efficient, single-aisle plane is set to transform transatlantic travel with expanded long-haul routes.
Airport Innovations & Expansions
- Gwadar Airport, Pakistan – A $240 million Chinese-funded airport, built for a city lacking clean water and a power grid, raises eyebrows.
- Dalian Jinzhou Bay International, China – The world’s largest artificial island airport is currently under construction.
- London Heathrow Expansion – The long-delayed third runway project has finally been approved, set to reshape European air travel.
Thrill Rides: The End of an Era
After 19 years of thrilling riders at Six Flags Adventure Park in New Jersey, Kingda Ka, once the world’s tallest and fastest roller coaster, has been demolished to make way for exciting new attractions in 2026.
As 2025 approaches, these destinations and innovations highlight an exciting year for travel, offering both nostalgic experiences and futuristic advancements. Where will your next adventure take you?