2025 Travel Trends You Need to Know
From chasing adventure to indulging in luxury, 2025 is all about immersive, elevated travel experiences. Whether you're biking through vineyards in Europe, setting sail on a Ritz-Carlton Yacht, or enjoying the romance of luxury train rides, this year's travel trends will inspire your next great escape.
1. ACTIVE TRAVEL
Get Active in 2025 - From scenic bike rides through wine country to thrilling golf courses around the world, active travel is in the spotlight! Our relationship with Backroads Travel helps us to give our clients help secure the adrenaline rush that they are after.
Discover biking tours with Backroads for adventure-packed itineraries tailored for all levels.
Are you a golf enthusiast? Tee off at the world’s most stunning courses while enjoying breathtaking landscapes.
Love hiking? Explore breathtaking trails in destinations like Italy with Backroads’ walking and hiking tours, combining adventure with cultural immersion. The great thing about Backroads is that you are lead by a guide who has been exploring the world’s wild trails and ancient footpaths and knows all the amazing spots!
Why It’s Popular in 2025:
Travelers are seeking meaningful, health-conscious experiences. Hiking adds an element of exploration and connection to nature, with destinations like Italy offering trails through vineyards, coastal paths, and historic villages. Combined with biking and golf, active travel offers something for every adventurer. Backroads makes this trend accessible with expertly designed itineraries that balance activity and luxury.
Photos Courtesy of Backroads Travel
2. EUROPEAN TRAVEL
Europe Beckons - If your soul craves history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, Europe’s diverse magic is calling your name.
In Portugal, sip world-class wine in the Douro Valley, wander the cobblestone streets of Lisbon, and soak up the coastal charm of Porto.
Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is a treasure trove of beauty, from the medieval walls of Dubrovnik to the crystal-clear waters of Hvar and Split.
Greece’s islands, including Santorini and Mykonos, offer a dreamy escape with whitewashed architecture, turquoise seas, and vibrant local traditions.
Spain dazzles with Barcelona’s Gaudí-inspired art and architecture, Madrid’s lively tapas scene, and the stunning beaches of Costa del Sol.
Why It’s Popular in 2025:
These regions and cities represent the best of Europe—offering culinary excellence, stunning scenery, and a perfect mix of cultural and leisure experiences. Whether exploring Portugal’s vineyards, Croatia’s azure waters, Greece’s timeless islands, or Spain’s dynamic cities, Europe promises unforgettable adventures in 2025.
3. UNIQUE WATER ITINERARIES
Sail in Style - For those drawn to the call of the sea, unique water itineraries promise adventure, elegance, and exclusivity. Forget ordinary cruises—2025 is all about unique water itineraries!
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Experience bespoke voyages to destinations such as the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. Explore the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean, the historic ports of the Mediterranean, and the scenic landscapes of Northern Europe, all while enjoying the unparalleled luxury and personalized service synonymous with The Ritz-Carlton.
Luxury River Cruises:
Avalon Waterways: Sail through Europe's iconic rivers, including the Rhine, Danube, and Seine, aboard Avalon’s Suite Ships, featuring panoramic windows and open-air balconies. Explore charming villages, historic cities, and picturesque landscapes along these legendary waterways.
Viking River Cruises: Offering journeys along the Nile, Mekong, and European rivers, Viking provides culturally enriching experiences with destination-focused dining and expertly guided shore excursions. Discover ancient temples, vibrant markets, and historic landmarks as you traverse these storied rivers.
Explora Journeys: Embark on transformative ocean journeys that blend renowned destinations with off-the-beaten-path ports. With a commitment to sustainable luxury, Explora offers immersive itineraries that connect travelers with the ocean, cultures, and communities they visit.
Why It’s Popular in 2025:
Travelers are seeking personalized and intimate experiences that go beyond traditional cruising. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers bespoke voyages to exclusive destinations, providing unparalleled luxury and personalized service. Luxury river cruises with companies like Avalon Waterways and Viking River Cruises allow guests to explore iconic rivers and culturally rich destinations with comfort and ease. Explora Journeys caters to the modern traveler’s desire for transformative and sustainable ocean experiences, blending luxury with a deep connection to the destinations visited.
Photos Courtesy of Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection
4. VENTURE TO THE EAST
Discover the East - If you yearn for exotic landscapes, ancient traditions, and unforgettable hospitality, the East awaits. We often partner with companies like Abercrombie & Kent for trips like this.
Why We Love Abercrombie & Kent for Our Clients:
Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) is renowned for crafting bespoke luxury journeys that offer authentic and immersive experiences. Their deep local knowledge and network ensure exclusive access to unique cultural encounters, while their commitment to personalized service caters to the individual preferences of each traveler. With A&K, our clients enjoy seamless travel experiences, from luxury accommodations to expertly guided tours, making every journey unforgettable.
Thailand: View Abercrombie & Kent Thailand Tours Here
Bangkok: Discover golden temples, bustling floating markets, and vibrant street life. Enjoy a private tour of the Grand Palace and Wat Arun, followed by a culinary journey through the city's renowned street food scene.
Chiang Mai: Explore lush jungles, visit hill tribe villages, and participate in traditional crafts workshops. Experience a serene stay in a luxury jungle retreat, with opportunities for guided treks and elephant encounters.
Phuket: Relax on pristine beaches, indulge in world-class spa treatments, and savor gourmet Thai cuisine. Stay in exclusive beachfront villas offering unparalleled views of the Andaman Sea.
Japan:
Kyoto: Wander through serene temples, traditional tea houses, and exquisite gardens. Experience a private tea ceremony with a master, immersing yourself in the art of Japanese hospitality.
Tokyo: Explore bustling streets, cutting-edge architecture, and vibrant markets. Delve into the city's culinary scene with exclusive dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants.
Kanazawa: Visit traditional silk farms and engage with local artisans, gaining insight into Japan's rich cultural heritage.
5. LUXURY ON THE RAILS
All Aboard for Luxury - For romantics and dreamers, luxury train travel offers the perfect blend of nostalgia, elegance, and slow exploration.
Experience: Embark on a journey through Scotland's dramatic landscapes aboard this luxurious sleeper train. With mahogany-clad cars and Edwardian elegance, the Royal Scotsman offers an intimate setting with a maximum of 40 guests. Onboard amenities include a spa car, observation car with an open-air veranda, and gourmet dining featuring local Scottish produce.
Sample Itineraries:
Western Scenic Wonders (3 Nights): Travel west from Edinburgh, passing through Falkirk and Craigendoran, the starting point for the West Highland Line. Highlights include visits to Loch Lomond, Ben Nevis, and the Isle of Bute, with excursions such as private castle tours and whisky tastings.
Taste of the Highlands (2 Nights): Journey through the heart of the Highlands, with stops including the Cairngorms National Park and a private tour of Ballindalloch Castle. Guests can enjoy activities like clay pigeon shooting and guided hikes.
The NEW Orient Express:
Experience: The Orient Express is brand new debutes Spring of 2025! Step back in time aboard the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, renowned for its Art Deco interiors, sumptuous cuisine, and impeccable service. The train features restored 1920s carriages, each with private cabins adorned with rich wood paneling and plush furnishings. Guests can unwind in the Bar Car '3674', known for its signature cocktails and live piano music.
Sample Itineraries:
Venice to Paris (1 Night): Depart from Venice, traversing the Italian Dolomites and Swiss Alps before arriving in Paris. The journey includes a gourmet dinner, breakfast, and brunch, all prepared by expert chefs using fresh, local ingredients.
Istanbul to Paris (5 Nights): This legendary route takes guests from Europe to the edge of Asia, with stops in Bucharest, Budapest, and Vienna. Highlights include city tours, cultural excursions, and exquisite onboard dining that reflects the culinary traditions of each region.
Why You Will Love These Luxury Trains:
The Belmond Royal Scotsman and Orient Express epitomize the pinnacle of luxury rail travel. Guests will appreciate the meticulous attention to detail, from elegantly appointed cabins to personalized service. The immersive itineraries offer a seamless blend of relaxation and adventure, with curated excursions that provide deep insights into the local culture and history. Onboard, guests indulge in world-class cuisine, spa treatments, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers, all while witnessing some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes unfold outside their window.
Photos of our Advisor, Kristin Smith aboard the Belmond Royal ScotsmanSo there you have it, the Travel Trends of 2025. The world is ready for you to explore it in style! Let us craft a journey that’s as unique as your wanderlust. Reach out today, and let’s turn your travel dreams into reality. The adventure of a lifetime is just a conversation away!
