Where's hot in 2025? See our top picks for your next holiday

Karpathos | Greece

Best time to go: Spring or autumn

It was true in the 90s when Blur released Girls and Boys and it's just as true today – Brits love to holiday in Greece. But there's no need to follow the herds on your next Greek adventure, as there are still plenty of holiday spots where you can avoid the crowds.

Greek islands regularly feature as top risers on our real-time destination leaderboard, none more so than Crete. Last time we checked, the capital Heraklion was up a staggering 1,200% compared to last year. Crete's lovely, but to avoid the crowds of British tourists we'd recommend catching the ferry from there to Karpathos, the second-largest of the Dodecanese islands. Think beautiful beaches, charming villages and scenic walking trails.

We'd avoid Greece in the height of summer, as temperatures in recent years have strayed too far beyond scorching. The shoulder seasons are much more bearable, and still hot enough to get that all-important tan.

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Shanghai | China

Best time to go: Autumn

Shanghai is another big riser on our real-time destination leaderboard. China is keen to attract more international tourists after reopening its borders in 2023, and while concerns over the country's political climate have put foreign tourists off in the past, more and more British travellers are starting to visit this fascinating country.

Shanghai is unlike anywhere else in the world. Take a waterfront stroll along the Bund and marvel at the high-end restaurants and art-deco hotels, then cross the river and scale the humongous Shanghai Tower for the best views of the city. Make time for a day trip to Wuzhen – this ancient town is arguably the country's prettiest, which makes for the perfect escape from the intoxicating, bustling city.

Bear in mind that China does score poorly on the Holiday Extras Good Trip Index, our guide to travelling ethically, sustainably and well. Scores for press and human freedoms are particularly concerning, as the government limits internet access and even blocks sites like Google, Facebook, YouTube and X (Twitter). There are also concerns that local laws can be enforced quite harshly, putting travellers at risk of exit bans and wrongfully being detained. Take a look at the FCDO's travel advice so you can make an informed decision about whether you'd like to go.

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Tivat | Montenegro

Best time to go: All year round

Tivat is the only destination we're recommending that also appeared on our list for 2024. This Balkan beach break has only grown in popularity thanks to its pristine beaches, upscale seafront dining and gorgeous views over the Bay of Kotor.

While Eastern Europe is more popular than ever thanks to its affordable prices compared to Western Europe, that's not really Tivat's bag. Head here for the high-end hotels, shops and restaurants that line the Porto Montenegro development and enjoy a luxury holiday somewhere new.

Tivat's great to visit all year round, but if you like it hot then travel between May and October.

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Andalusia | Spain

Best time to visit: Spring or autumn

Spain has been popular with British tourists since the 50s and 60s when package holidays began. Andalusia was an early favourite, and is once again rising in popularity as UK travellers seek out its historic Moorish cities and built-up beach resorts along the Costa del Sol.

Spain has been wary of British tourists in recent years and wants to reduce over-tourism in the most popular spots. But that doesn't mean you should avoid Andalusia altogether – there are plenty of destinations outside of Seville, Granada and Malaga that will be more than happy to welcome responsible tourists.

Jet2 opened up new routes to Jerez last year, a city that's right in the heart of the Sherry Triangle. Sample Andalusia's famous export in charming bodegas, explore the historic centre then in the evening experience a flamenco show in its heartland.

The tragic floods that hit Andalusia and other parts of Spain in October devastated parts of the region. So while it may not be possible to visit some of the area at the time of writing, the local economy will be glad to see tourists again in the new year.

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Côn Dao | Vietnam

Best time to go: November to April

Vietnam is one of the top-rising destinations on our Good Trip Index, climbing 40 places since 2022. While its scores for press and human freedom are low, it does relatively well for animal welfare and is second-highest in Southeast Asia for LGBTQI+ rights.

There's loads to see in the north, from historic Hanoi to Ha Long Bay, but if you're heading south don't miss Côn Dao. Fly into lively Ho Chi Minh and spend some time exploring one of Southeast Asia's best budget destinations, then it's a 45-minute flight to this tropical paradise.

The palm trees, beaches and coral reefs are everything you could wish for from an exotic escape, but there's more to Côn Dao than that. It's known locally as Devil's Island, as it was home to infamous, brutal prisons used first by French colonialists and later during the Vietnam War. Now closed, you'll find plenty of reminders like prison walls, gaols and cemeteries that mainly Vietnamese travellers visit to pay their respects.

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Korcula | Croatia

Best time to go: Summer

For a slice of the Dalmatian coast without the crowds of Dubrovnik or Split, Korcula is a quiet medieval island worth exploring.

With palm-lined streets, a well-preserved medieval centre and sandy beaches, the town Korcula itself is as relaxing as the Mediterranean gets. But amble around the island and you'll find sleepy villages and vineyards growing some of the most unique wines in Europe.

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Burgas | Bulgaria

Best time to go: Summer

With extreme heat and wildfires now regularly spreading through Greece during the height of summer, you might be wondering where to go instead. For the Mediterranean vibe of your favourite Greek islands without the unbearable weather, the resorts along Bulgaria's Black Sea coast might be your best bet.

Jet2 now flies directly to Burgas from the UK in under 4 hours. This lively port city is great for a stopover thanks to its cheap hotels, uncrowded beach and excellent museums. But most travellers decide to leave as soon as they've landed in favour of historic towns and resorts further along the coast.

We'd recommend Sozopol, just a 30-minute drive from Burgas. The cobbled lanes, fortifications and churches in the old town date back to ancient times, and the soft sandy beaches are arguably the best in Bulgaria.

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Ghent | Belgium

Best time to go: Spring

A city break in Belgium is always a good idea. You could fly there, but for a more environmentally-conscious trip to Europe you can catch the Eurostar all the way to Brussels. Most British tourists spend their time in the capital, or take the train from there to explore the fairy-tale streets of Bruges.

But don't sleep on Ghent – it's less crowded but just as beautiful as any Belgian city. It was named the European Youth Capital in 2024 and has a playful edge to it, from the street art that adorns its medieval passageways to the nightclubs, museums and breweries that have taken over many of the city's old factories. Don't miss the restaurants and cafes that line the historic canals – vegetarians will be spoilt for choice, as will anyone looking for the classic cuisine and unique beers the Flanders region is known for.

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Houston, Texas | USA

Best time to go: April

Houston is one of the fastest-rising city breaks on our real-time destination leaderboard. So if you've always wanted to visit the States, get yourself down to Texas and explore this laid-back metropolis before everyone else does.

No two days are the same in Houston. Learn all about the moon landing at the Houston Space Center, embrace cowboy culture the next day by heading to a rodeo, then see local baseball team the Houston Astros score home run after home run. The diversity of culture and attractions is as good as anywhere in the USA, which becomes obvious when you start eating your way through the city. From Venezuelan to Vietnamese, just about every cuisine you can think of is served up to a high standard, whether you fancy fine dining or street eats.

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Lamezia Terme | Italy

Best time to go: Spring or autumn

The pretty towns and perfect beaches at the tip of Italy's toe have long allured British travellers. Tropea is probably the most famous of Calabria's resorts, but for somewhere new try Lamezia Terme. Ryanair now flies there directly from London Stansted, and it has all the rich history, architecture and great weather you'd expect from an Italian city without the crowds.

Archaeological treasures found in the ancient city of Terina are what makes modern-day Lamezia Terme stand out. Learn all about them in the Archaeological Museum, then tuck into Calabrian cuisine from Lagane – believed to be the oldest pasta in the world – to spicy 'Nduja sausage.

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Tromsø | Norway

Best time to go: The height of summer

Both British Airways and Ryanair are putting on new routes to this scenic city break in northern Norway, so now's the time to go before everyone else catches on.

If you don't mind freezing temperatures then head there between October and April, when it's possible to see the Northern Lights from the city itself. But if you'd rather not pack your big coat and 20 layers, summer in Tromsø is gorgeous. Midnight sun kicks in from the end of May to late July, when the sun never sets over the Arctic Circle. This gives you plenty of daylight hours to explore the city, hike nearby mountains or go whale watching.

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Southern Tunisia

Best time to go: May the 4th

You'll find many of the most famous Star Wars filming locations in the south of Tunisia, making it a popular pilgrimage site for fans all over the world. Djerba's a favourite not only because it's home to Ben's House and Mos Eisley Cantina, but also because it's absolutely gorgeous. This Mediterranean island boasts beautiful beaches, charming villages and plenty of history, making it great place to visit whether you love Star Wars or not.

If you're thinking of heading to Tunisia, keep in mind that it scores poorly on our Good Trip Index – particularly for LGBTQI+ travel, as same-sex sexual activity is illegal. Plus there are areas of Tunisia that the FCDO advises against travelling to, so keep up to date with the latest advice and plan your trip carefully.

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Lago de Atitlán | Guatemala

Best time to go: February

Lago de Atitlán is the deepest lake in Central America and probably the most spectacular in the world. Surrounded by three imposing volcanoes, the mysterious waters shimmer and change colour throughout the day from deep green to dark blue, enchanting many backpackers to stay by the lake way longer than they had planned.

The villages dotted around the lake all offer something different. Party day and night in San Pedro La Laguna, then recover with a spot of meditation and yoga in the quieter San Marcos La Laguna.

If you can prize yourself away from the lake, visit Chichicastenango for a taste of authentic Mayan culture. Head there on market day and browse stalls filled with carved masks, huipil blouses and local products.

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Vienna | Austria

Best time to go: February or March

Travelling to Vienna more sustainably is about to get even easier in February, as a new sleeper train is opening up from Brussels. That means you can get the Eurostar from London to Brussels, stop for a Trappist beer or two, then hop on the train and wake up in Austria's historic capital the next day.

There's plenty to do on a Vienna city break. In between exploring the galleries and museums, stop off in some of the world's oldest and most iconic coffee houses for one of the most unique, creamy coffees around.

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Yerevan | Armenia

Best time to go: Spring

Armenia is one of the countries that straddles the border between Europe and Asia. Plonked right in the Caucasus region between Georgia, Turkey, Azerbaijan, it also shares a tiny bit of border with Iran. Yerevan is the capital city and, according to one of our travel experts, a very cool place to go.

It's one of the oldest cities in the world and that blends uniquely with the Soviet-era architecture that you don't often find in your typical city break. You'll also find cosy cafes and parks and Republic Square, which makes a good starting point with its beautiful fountains – come back at night to see it all lit up.

On top of that, Armenia has risen in our Good Trip Index this year, with decent scores in animal welfare and quality of life.

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Taiwan

Best time to go: May

Taiwan is another destination that's keen for more international visitors. It's also risen 8 places on our Good Trip Index, topping the list for East Asia, making it a great destination for a responsible trip.

Taiwan is vegetarian and vegan heaven, with the capital Taipei topping countless lists for the world's most vegan-friendly cities. By all means splash out on meat-free meals in Michelin-starred gems, but not before experiencing the sensory overload of the city's buzzing night markets. Tuck into dumplings, soups and sesame noodles and enjoy the infectious atmosphere.

Head to Taiwan in May for the World Masters Games and the Dragon Boat Festival at the end of the month.

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Trieste | Italy

Best time to go: Spring or autumn

Venice is on many bucket lists, but overcrowding is a huge concern and it's no secret that locals would rather less people visit. For an alternative, head further east to Trieste, whose sparkling canals have led many to call it 'little Venice by the sea'.

Trieste has spent most of its time as an Austrian city, so it's no wonder that the buildings are so grand and the coffeehouse culture is thriving. Locals supposedly drink twice as much coffee as their fellow Italians, and Caffè Degli Specchi is the best-known place to drink it.

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Timor-Leste

Best time to go: May to October

If 2025 is the year you want to head out on a proper adventure, consider Timor-Leste. It's got all the makings of a future tourism hotspot but visitor numbers are low, so you'll be welcomed with open arms as you explore this beautiful island in peace.

Timor-Leste is one of the best places in the world for snorkelling and diving. The reefs are unspoilt and barely touched or seen by tourists, while the biodiversity of its mountains and forests is just as impressive. Between spotting turtles, dolphins, whales and rare birds, laze about on golden stretches of sand or sip locally grown coffee in towns filled with crumbling Portuguese architecture.

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County Wicklow | Ireland

Best time to visit: March for St Patrick's Day

Sure, heading to Ireland for St Patrick's Day isn't exactly an original suggestion. But rather than spend your whole time in Dublin revelling in Temple Bar and sipping Guinness straight from the factory, head south to County Wicklow.

There's Guinness there too, don't worry, but you'll also find a lush national park, ancient houses and dramatic ruins in the 'Garden of Ireland'. Wicklow's a favourite of the big screen too – Powerscourt, Kilruddery House and the mountainous backdrop were used in Braveheart, The Count of Monte Cristo and P.S. I Love You, to name a few. Wednesday season 2 is being shot in County Wicklow too, which is expected to be the largest production ever filmed in Ireland.

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Vlorë | Albania

Best time to go: Summer or the shoulder seasons

If you've already been to the Costa del Sol or fancy heading somewhere cheaper and arguably more exotic, we think you'll love Vlorë in Albania.

You might not have considered a holiday to Albania, especially if you were thinking of heading to Spain, but hear us out. You won't find many places in Europe that are cheaper for tourists, with beers less than £2 and three-course meals costing a tenner, and its third-largest city boasts beautiful beaches along the Bay of Vlorë and sunbathing weather to match.

The weather will be warm enough for a dip in spring and autumn, plus it won't be too crowded this time of year. Feel free to visit in summer if you're after higher temperatures and don't mind it being busy, when it regularly reaches 30°C.

There's more to Vlorë than just beaches. It's where Albania's independence was won, which you can learn more about at the National Independence Museum, and being so close to Italy its seafood pasta is exceptional. That's not to mention the pizza, which wouldn't look out of place being served in Naples.