The Top Travel Trends in 2025 for an Unforgettable Vacation

Looking for the top travel trends in 2025 to level up your next vacation? This seasoned travel editor has learned that embarking on any adventure is a personal experience. Some will voyage to the ends of the earth in search of rare views and boasting rights back home; others, however, will turn to an urban oasis that offers the hustle and bustle they crave. It's completely subjective, which is why the most important aspect of travel planning is to be original. The key is to keep up with travel trends while staying true to what you want out of an expedition, whether it be romance with your partner, a good time with your friends, or even multigenerational connection with family.

We reached out to travel industry experts to learn about what to expect for the upcoming year and how service offerings are evolving. From witnessing nature's brilliant moments and must-see marquee events to indulging in exclusive amenities and specialized accommodations, there are new travel experiences to be had. Here are 22 top travel trends and the best destinations of 2025 to help plan an unforgettable trip.

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Nature's Greatest Hits

Courtesy of Aman Resorts

According to our latest travel trends report, some of the most striking moments known to nature are worth pairing with romantic getaways. Examples include the Great Migration, the Northern Lights, the peaceful late-summer breezes between the buttes and canyons out West, cherry blossom season in Japan or Washington, D.C., and so many other poignant spectacles that only come at the mercy of Mother Nature. "Many travelers are overwhelmed with technology and the bustle of everyday life," says Kerry Hing, general manager of Amangiri Resort in Utah. "Nestled among stark canyon landscapes, our property offers a transformative experience that strips away the noise of modern life. We offer an intimate retreat where ancient terrain becomes a backdrop for personal renewal and profound moments of stillness." Couples will want to fully take advantage of nature's brilliant moments by hiring a local guide or, at the very least, employing an expert to help plan travel around coveted seasons for travel. But most importantly, they'll want to bring qualities like awe and presence to take in the grandeur and splendor marking their stays.

Places to Stay: Amangiri (Canyon Point, UT); Basecamp Masai Mara (Masai Mara, Kenya); Janu Tokyo (Tokyo, Japan)

Unexpected Places

While the typical contenders are still beloved and well-traveled, there are a few lesser-known destinations that are ideal for romance. "One that we have on our Hot List, and one that's completely blowing up for us right now, is Bhutan," says Henley Vazquez, the co-founder of travel agency Fora. "The destination is for the kind of couple who wants spirituality, incredible scenery and hiking trails. It's one of the most incredible destinations with beautiful lodges. And that's the other thing about couples on a romantic trip: They don't want to rough it often with the accommodations. Plus, you have the whole Six Senses circuit in Bhutan. It's full of spectacular hotels and spectacular destinations with amazing things to do culturally and with active adventure. And by the way, you can do a Bhutan honeymoon for less than a trip to the Amalfi Coast."

Places to Stay: Six Senses Bhutan (Thimphu, Bhutan); The Bushmills Inn (Giant's Causeway, UK)

Romantically Remote Respites

Bawah Reserve

Your dream of escaping to a deserted island with your partner? That can be a reality, especially if you opt to vacation in the middle of nowhere. After all, there's nothing like traveling for what feels like eternity, only to the greeted by an ice-cold mocktail, a cold compress towel, and views that seemingly can only be found in a Windows screensaver. There are only a few places that truly specialize in privacy, however, whether you're in the sub-Saharan desert or the middle of the Indian Ocean. Resorts that specialize in romantic experiences will offer bookings for couples to take advantage of their middle-of-nowhere features. These could include a picnic on an isolated island beach or an open-air suite that lets couples take in the beauty of the stars and the sounds of the bush.

Places to Stay: Bawah Reserve (Anambas Islands, Indonesia); Savute Safari Lodge (Savuti, Botswana)

Indulgent Accommodations

White Elephant

For milestone moments like an engagement proposal, a honeymoon or a 10-year anniversary trip, couples are often in search of hotels and properties that offer one-of-a-kind experiences coupled with the stay. (Think: Booking a gorgeous suite or honeymoon cottage in a unique destination that offers sweeping views unlike anything you'd see at home.)

Places to Travel: Andronis Arcadia Oia (Santorini, Greece); Garden Cottages at the White Elephant (Nantucket, Massachusetts); San Ysidro Ranch (Montecito, California)

Railroad Wonder

The Rocky Mountaineer

There are too many historical fiction plots to count that are set in the early 20th Century, and that involve romance at a train station. But train travel isn't just a nostalgic highlight from eras past. Quite the opposite—train travel, especially for romantic getaways is trending. "Train travel appeals to those who are seeking to slow down and appreciate the journey," explains Violet Thumlert, vice president of global sales for Rocky Mountaineer. "This leisurely, relaxing way of travel offers a romantic way to experience destinations. A Rocky Mountaineer journey is an ideal honeymoon journey as it allows newlyweds to step away from the hustle of their daily lives and spend valuable time with each other; all while enjoying delicious cuisine, attentive service and some of the most spectacular scenery North America has to offer." So whether you snake through the Canadian Rockies after your wedding or hop aboard a bullet train in Japan, your love story deserves the locomotive treatment.

Trips to Take: The Rocky Mountaineer (Canada); The Belmond Britannic Explorer (UK)

Must-See Marquee Events

Mandarin Oriental, Singapore

Hear that sound? It could be applause rippling through Wimbledon or the roar of race cars rounding the corner during an internal F1 event. Marquee events are rising in popularity, and especially among couples who want to book them in tandem with romantic getaways or an anniversary trip. These bucket-list events, some annual, and some even more rare in timelines (think the Olympics or the World Cup), are in high demand. They include everything from global sporting events, sold-out arena concerts, film premieres, and more exclusive events. If you're already making your way to enjoy the spectacle, why not enjoy it?

Places to Stay: Mandarin Oriental, Singapore (Singapore); Hotel du Vin (Wimbledon, UK)

Exclusive Amenities from Properties

Design: Tiana Crispino

The glass of champagne upon arrival or within the business or first-class cabins is still very much appreciated, but how about the unexpected and indulgent turn-down services provided by hotel staffers at the destination? Part of luxury is experiencing top-tier service and amenities from properties—ideal for those on a special birthday trip. This has traditionally included luxury skincare and body care brands at hotels, as well as welcome amenities. Lately, though, so many luxury brands are going well above the standard with thoughtful turndown services (desserts, music, and more).

This ultra-thoughtful care is linked to hotel concierges and travel experience coordinators, who will carefully assess guests' needs and deliver some treats, across the senses, to help you drift to sleep harmoniously. The Lanesborough in London, for example, has long been known for its popcorn deliveries so guests can easily recreate the movie theater experience in their hotel robes. The Rosewood Villa Magna's concierge team doles out suite treats for adults and kids based on their interests. Sir Richard Branson's Necker Island, if you ever land on the private island, is infamous for its sushi kayak. The Four Seasons Maui, another hot spot for set-jetting, is equally renowned for its nightly torch-lighting and hula performance, as well as its complimentary outrigger canoes.

Places to Travel: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea (Maui, Hawaii); The Lanesborough (London, UK); Rosewood Villa Magna (Madrid, Spain)

Intentionally Sustainable Stays

Photo: Leading Hotels of the World

The planet is burning and flooding, which is alarming for those currently impacted by extreme climates and future generations. Now, more than ever, sustainability efforts are a herculean issue across industries and individuals are also confronting it directly. Tastemakers and industry drivers have been more focused, lately, on sustainability and whether properties have swayed away from single-use plastics, as well as non-recyclable products. In luxury, particularly, sustainability is a lifestyle choice.

Places to Travel: Nihi Sumba (Indonesia); The Brando (French Polynesia); Falkensteiner Hotel Montafon (Austria)

Shoulder Season Vacations

If it felt as though every couple you know was in the Amalfi Coast or Santorini this summer, that hunch was likely correct. Due to the sheer demand and influx of tourists to countries like Italy and France, there has since been a request for travelers to consider visiting these destinations during off-seasons.

"We've seen an increase among couples wanting to travel during shoulder seasons to avoid large crowds, enjoy milder weather conditions, or secure availability at their preferred accommodations," says Emmanuel Burgio at Blue Parallel. "Popular bucket list destinations, like Patagonia, can become very crowded during the peak months of January and February, and securing the best accommodation can require planning 12-18 months, in advance. However, the shoulder months of October through December and March through April still boast great conditions for outdoor adventures, though slightly milder, and are far less crowded so travelers can explore the surreal landscapes in a more intimate way."

Places to Travel: Susana Balbo Winemaker's House & Spa Suites (Mendoza, Argentina)

The All-Inclusive Revolution

Secrets Resorts

Welcome to the next big luxury travel trend in 2025: the predetermined and elevated all-inclusive. Hotels and resorts, including perennial favorite chains like Hyatt Ziva, Hilton All-Inclusives, Secrets Resorts and Spas, Sandals Resorts, and more, are upgrading their all-inclusive options in a big way. Some corporations are focused on top-tier newcomers—think five-star accommodations with even more discretion, service and privacy. Certain prestige-level boutique hotels, which provide all-inclusive options, have joined the travel trend with even more elevated offerings, including tours and meal packages by acclaimed private chefs.

"This isn't just for spring breakers and families anymore," says Vazquez. "The all-inclusive scene is shifting to include high-end hotels… After all, it's not very romantic to sit there and figure out how much tip to add to your $25 margarita." This hospitality revolution is confronting and reimagining how travelers traditionally view the all-inclusive resort category while venturing into new destinations. For couples who appreciate the unique and uncharted places, it's an especially nice way to explore the unfamiliar while enjoying the traditional inclusions.

Places to Travel: Impression Moxché by Secrets (Mexico); Jade Mountain (St. Lucia); Sandals Grande St. Lucia (St. Lucia); Secrets Papagayo (Costa Rica)

Social Media Fasts

In our social media-centric world, some people aren't in the mode of soliciting likes or comments from their content. In fact, these to-be-weds and newlyweds are looking for unique trip ideas that don't keep up with social media-forward travel trends, resulting in the rise of the anti-honeymoon or anti-bach party in 2025. The same set of travelers are voyaging with bespoke itineraries that solely speak to their senses and purpose for an unfiltered, unplugged getaway. If this speaks to you, much of the travel trends below will also be a melodious response to the fatigue of fabulous, aspirational jet-setting that may often infiltrate your social media feeds. (And if you prefer to lean into content creation during your trip? Well, we support that too.)

Enforced Digital Detoxes

While we're on the topic, travelers are living in an era where digital frugality is a virtue and digital disturbances are abundant. This editor recalls plenty of moments in Dubai when her views were obstructed by impromptu cell phone-quality photoshoots. It's why nonexistent phone usage on vacation seems like a rather tempting challenge to so many. "Couples (and our clients) are seeking experiences that offer a break from the crowds, creating opportunities to connect with each other more deeply and build lasting memories," says Burgio. "This desire for meaningful moments aligns with a growing trend toward destinations that encourage or even require digital detoxes, allowing travelers to unplug, recharge, and focus on what truly matters."

In the American West, Castle Hot Springs discourages the usage of screens and has subbed their televisions with books and other bespoke touches like giving guests puzzles each night to distract them from their phones. The Wi-Fi password, even, poses a connectivity challenge to its guests as you'll have to type, "RUsureUwant2?" for internet access. Or the San Blas Islands in Panama is another such destination, says Burgio. "Our travelers take a private plane to a remote landing strip in the San Blas Islands before boarding their luxury catamaran," he elaborates. "They spend their days here sailing through azure waters, island hopping between beautiful white sand beaches, exploring pristine coral reefs, and fishing for their evening dinners… and there's no electricity or construction so travelers can immerse themselves in the simplicity of island life without the distractions of modern technology."

Places to Travel: Castle Hot Springs (Arizona, US); Hotel Weihrerhof (Italy)

Historic Hotels & Converted Luxury

Ashford Castle

One of the biggest travel trends of recent years was a focus on the antiquities. In 2025, travelers aren't just focused on the past; they're interested in staying in historic spaces. (Think: converted palaces and convents, uber-luxurious former estates and villas, as well as landmarks that once housed important historical events.)

Places to Travel: Ashford Castle (Galway, Ireland); The Gritti Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel (Venice, Italy)

The Cruising Travel Trend

Design: Tiana Crispino

Somehow, Gen Z has cracked the code: cruising is a convenient and cost-effective way to experience a multi-destination trip. River cruises and high-end cruising have emerged in popularity, especially those that pass along the Nile in Egypt, the Amazon River, the Danube in East Europe, or the Rhine. In addition, Antarctica expeditions have also ballooned in volume and interest as the Drake Passage (as dreaded for some sailors as it is) must be crossed for cruisers to experience the uninhabited continent.

"With high-end cruising, a lot of people may have thought of this type of travel for older couples or an older demographic," says Vazquez. "But this is completely changing right now with the entry of high-end hotel brands into the cruising space. You've got the Ritz-Carlton Yacht, the Four Seasons, and more… So there's a complete shift. There's also Virgin Voyages, which is the 'young and cool' couples' option… I think that's something that's been so interesting to me is that shift. You'd almost think of a honeymoon on a cruise ship as some 1950s thing, but it's actually a 2025 thing."

Design-Centric Stays

Aesthetics has played a big role with Gen Z—just look at the rise of terms like, "cottagecore" and "bridal capsule wardrobes." Now, they are in search of properties that are inspiring and breathtaking from an aesthetic standpoint. Not only are these spaces inspirational and luxurious, they also evoke a sense of creativity and respite.

Places to Travel: Hotel Jerome (Aspen, Colorado); Calilo (Ios, Greece); 7132 Hotels (Vals, Switzerland)

The Slow Travel Trend

If you're the type of couple who tends to go deep over wide—and I don't blame you, since this editor operates with the same philosophy—you must embrace the slow travel trend. It's impossible to get to know most destinations within four days; especially if you're planning to stay within the limits of a resort the entire time (and that, we understand). While travelers may think it's worth cramming intense three-city itineraries into a 12-day tour, you'll only scratch the surface of a locale. The latest travel trend that couples are embracing is the art of slow travel: truly getting to know a destination without the frills of a typical tourism experience. Stay, eat and relax. Did we mention it's a more sustainable option?

Places to Travel: Villa Punto De Vista (Costa Rica)

Set-Jetting

Design: Tiana Crispino

With the rise of popular TV shows and movies like Dune 2 or The White Lotus (streaming on HBO Max), it's no surprise travelers are chomping at the bit to experience the touch of luxury or far-flung and desirable destination travel seen across popular programming. There's a name for it too: set-jetting. It doesn't have to be an exotic destination too. Easily accessible perennial favorites include the Palace Hotel in Manhattan's Upper East Side from Gossip Girl, as well as the Bellagio in Ocean's Eleven.

Places to Travel: San Domenico Palace, Taormina, A Four Seasons Hotel (Italy); Lotte New York Palace Hotel (New York, New York); Bellagio Hotel & Casino (Las Vegas, Nevada); Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui (Thailand)

Wellbeing Resorts

Design: Tiana Crispino

This has been a steadfast travel trend on The Knot's list since 2020. As couples focus on their health, both mental and physical, one of the enduring aftereffects of COVID is an emphasis on wellness. Luxury properties have increasingly offered various types of standard wellness programming beyond the daily morning yoga class. For some couples, this standard of travel is embedded from the moment they arrive with the food they consume and the drinks they prefer (including alcohol detoxes). Some wellness properties even offer meditation workshops and soundbaths to help couples experience a fully immersive stay so that they can return home not only with romantic memories but also the assurance of a relaxed mind and body.

Places to Travel: The Ranch (Malibu, California or Hudson, New York); Four Seasons Lanai (Lanai, Hawaii); Careyes (Jalisco, Mexico); Shou Sugi Ban House (The Hamptons, New York)

The US Continues to Thrive

Since 2020, there's been an increase in US-based travel and a general interest in exploring the country. While this comes from obvious reasons, like travel restrictions and more, it's an enduring post-pandemic interest that continues to grow. This is likely attributed to the fact that there's a wealth of US destinations to explore–and new hotel openings (including luxury cottages, cabins, ranches and farms) to supplement the demand.

Places to Travel: PGA National Resort (Palm Beach, Florida); Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort (Hawai'i, Hawaii); Raffles Boston (Boston, Massachusetts)

Two Trips, One Stone

The way couples take honeymoons has also evolved. Once upon a time, and some couples still choose to move forward with this option, newlyweds hopped on a plane the day after their wedding—hungover and blissful—to set off for their destination. Now, more couples are booking minimoons close to their venue location (be it, local) to enjoy a few, uncharted days of privacy. Eventually, many end up booking a megamoon for four months to 12 months down the line so that they can not only recover their finances but also recoup their wedding blues with their sights set on a lavish newlywed trip idea. (It's a financial game too.)

Places to Travel: Atlantis The Royal Dubai (Dubai, UAE) & Gili Lankanfushi Maldives (Maldives)

Earlymoons

Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Let's be real: Couples need a break from wedding planning. As exciting as it is to book amazing vendors and think through your event flow, a well-deserved getaway is also incentive enough for all of the hard work you've done to throw the wedding of your dreams. In 2025, a key trend for engaged couples will be earlymoons, a prelude to the honeymoon that takes place during the engagement. While this doesn't necessarily have to be an extended trip, it certainly can include indulgences (even for a staycation). If you're in need of some inspiration, our editors recommend spa treatments to help untangle tension, an over-the-top engagement dinner, and, even, couple's counseling to help enhance the engagement process.

Honeymoon Registries

Gifting is no longer about the item. It's about the experience. It's why the honeymoon registry continues to trend up among couples planning their weddings. For the to-be-weds who have everything at home, why not add to the carefully curated bucket list and have loved ones contribute to the making of that memory? In The Knot Registry Store, particularly, couples can add cash funds, including group gifting options and travel experiences. Newlyweds can now easily ask loved ones to contribute to their adventures, like exploring Rome for six days or enjoying a date night in Nashville with Virgin Experiences. Couples can also register for items like a Royal Caribbean gift card (as mentioned above, cruises are trending up), a Napa food and wine tour, and so much more.

Ideas to Add to the Registry: Santorini Caldera Day Tour (SPUR Experiences); Machu Picchu Sacred Valley Tour (SPUR Experiences); Bioluminescent Paddle Adventure (Virgin Experiences)