With so much of the world to discover, deciding your next travel destination can become its own journey. So, we’ve worked with our in-house experts and pored over articles from industry experts like Travel + Leisure and The New York Times to identify five of the top locations to travel to in 2025. Find inspiration for your own future adventures in our list of trending destinations below.

Marrakech, Morocco

1. Marrakech, Morocco

A land of dramatic contrasts, Morocco invites travelers to experience its rich cultural heritage through ancient ruins, sacred mosques, imposing kasbahs, and spirited souks, all framed by endless deserts and snow-capped mountains. Marrakech, one of the four imperial cities, embodies just a sampling of this captivating land. For a taste of the old city, explore the maze-like medina and barter at the bustling Djemaa el Fna marketplace. Or, bask in the lush greenery of Majorelle Gardens, an oasis in the city known as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Then, for a modern finish, visit Yves Saint Laurent Museum and marvel at how the famous fashion designer imbued his love for Marrakech into his clothing.

Interested? Explore our Moroccan Discovery tour, where we spend three nights in Marrakech doing all of this and more.

The 15th-century complex of Ollantaytambo, northwest of Cuzco

2. Ollantaytambo, Peru

Machu Picchu tends to dominate Peru’s travel scene, and for good reason. But Ollantaytambo, another Inca archaeological site and town just a few miles from its more-famous sibling, boasts equally stunning history and scenery. Massive hillside “steps” descend from the remains of the mid–15th century Inca ceremonial center, leading to the still-inhabited village nestled deep in the Sacred Valley. When you’re finished exploring the ruins, soak in the views of the surrounding mountains while perusing the town’s charming local markets and cafés. 

We spend a full day exploring Ollantaytambo, along with other Sacred Valley sites, on our Treasures of Peru tour.

Saint-Bénézet Bridge, Avignon, France

3. Provence, France

The captivating natural scenery and delicious cuisine of France attracts millions of visitors every year. But instead of heading straight for the bright lights of Paris, try venturing into the charming region of Provence in southeastern France. From the Southern Alps and the Camargue plains to fragrant vineyards and enchanting medieval villages, Provence offers more than enough nature, history, art, culture, and cuisine to satisfy your wanderlust, all at an easy pace.

Spend some time exploring Provence – as well as Paris, Lyon, Dijon, and more – on our Essential France: Provence to Paris tour.

Coast of Cairns, Australia

4. Cairns, Australia

Cairns is more than a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef (though, that alone is an excellent reason to visit); it’s also surrounded by tropical rainforests, features diverse Indigenous cultures, and boasts a thriving art scene. The city hosts several world-class galleries and art centers – including the enormous Gallery Precinct featuring the brand-new Mulgrave Gallery, which focuses on First Nations art. Pair it with palm-lined beaches, turquoise waters, and mountainous landscapes, and Cairns makes for an attractive all-in-one destination.

We spend three nights in Cairns while enjoying a full-day excursion to the Great Barrier Reef, plus visits to Mossman Gorge, the mountain village of Kuranda, and the world’s oldest living tropical rainforest, on our Exploring Australia & New Zealand tour.

Urquhart Castle, Inverness, Scotland

5. Inverness, Scotland

Inverness is considered the “capital of the Highlands,” and for good reason. The town offers a picturesque experience that is pure Scotland: rolling hills, majestic mountains, medieval castles, historic monuments, and, of course, legendary Loch Ness. While here, sample some Scotch whisky, explore the ruins of Urquhart Castle, hike along River Ness – and, most importantly, keep your eyes peeled for Nessie!

Our two-night stay in Inverness ranks as only one of the many highlights of our beloved  Scotland: Highlands and Islands tour.

We hope this list is helpful to you as you plan your future journeys. If you’re ready to make a reservation on an Odysseys small group tour to one of these destinations, feel free to submit an online reservation request or contact one of our Travel Counselors at 1-888-370-6765; we would be delighted to assist you.

However, if you’re looking to travel in 2025, act fast; availability is filling up quickly!