By Ranugi Thihansa

Summer 2025 is here and global wanderlust is stronger than ever. Travelers are seeking destinations that offer a mix of culture, nature, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff or someone chasing sunsets, this year’s most visited countries have something for everyone. Here’s where the world is heading and exactly what they’re going to see.

1. Italy – History, Coastlines & Culinary Heaven

Italy is where summer dreams come alive whether you’re sipping wine in Tuscany or sailing through Venice. Italy continues to top lists for its unbeatable combination of history, coastline, and cuisine. Travelers flock to Rome for the Colosseum and Vatican, explore Florence for Renaissance art and architecture, and cruise along the stunning Amalfi Coast to visit cliffside towns like Positano. In Sicily, tourists hike Mount Etna and admire Greek ruins in Taormina, making Italy a sensory feast from north to south.

2. Greece – Mythical Beauty & Island Magic

Greece is the go-to for sun-drenched islands and Mediterranean charm. Santorini, with its iconic whitewashed houses and caldera views, is perfect for romantic getaways. Athens offers a rich dose of history with the Acropolis and vibrant Plaka neighborhood, while Crete draws adventurers to its beaches and the Samaria Gorge. Lesser-known islands like Naxos and Paros are rising in popularity for their peaceful atmosphere and Cycladic beauty.

3. Vietnam – Affordable Adventure & Culture

Vietnam has become a summer hotspot for travelers seeking culture, nature, and value. Ha Long Bay’s dramatic limestone cliffs are best explored by boat, while Hoi An enchants with its lantern-lit streets and tailor shops. In the imperial city of Hue, travelers tour ancient citadels and enjoy Perfume River cruises. Da Nang’s beaches and marble caves, as well as Ho Chi Minh City’s Street food and history museums, round out the experience.

4. Japan – Tradition, Tech and Tranquility

Japan remains a favorite for its perfect blend of tradition and innovation. Visitors are drawn to Tokyo’s vibrant streets like Shibuya Crossing and teamLab Planets, while Kyoto offers peace with its Fushimi Inari Shrine and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Nara delights tourists with friendly, free-roaming deer in Nara Park, and Hokkaido’s flower fields in Furano and Biei offer a cool summer escape. Japan’s food, culture, and efficiency make it a top choice for both solo travelers and families.

5. Indonesia – Tropical Serenity & Wellness

Bali, Indonesia is a tropical haven blending nature, wellness, and beachside energy. Ubud offers rice terraces, jungle swings, and peaceful temples, along with beautiful waterfalls like Tegenungan and Tibumana. Canggu is full of aesthetic cafés and surf spots, while Uluwatu is known for its cliffside views and sunset beach clubs like Savaya and Single Fin. For a luxury poolside vibe, Finns Beach Club and Atlas are top picks. Over on Nusa Penida, dramatic coastlines and hidden beaches make it a must-visit. Bali is the perfect mix of calm, adventure, and tropical fun.

6. Portugal – Europe’s Rising Star

Portugal is one of Europe’s trendiest destinations this year, thanks to its affordability, charm, and variety. Lisbon dazzles with its hilltop views, vintage trams, and riverside dining. Porto charms with its colorful riverside quarters and famous wine cellars. Down south, the Algarve’s golden cliffs and sea caves, including the Instagram-famous Benagil Cave, offer picture-perfect relaxation. The fairytale palaces of Sintra add a magical twist to any itinerary.

7. South Korea – K-Culture Capital

South Korea is a rising favorite, especially among fans of K-pop and Korean culture. Seoul is buzzing with energy, from historic places like Gyeongbokgung to shopping districts like Myeongdong and high-tech entertainment zones. Busan offers beautiful beaches like Haeundae, colorful hillside villages, and fresh seafood markets. Jeju Island is a natural paradise with waterfalls and lava tubes, while Gyeongju is packed with royal tombs and historical treasures.

8. Australia – Winter Sun & Natural Wonders

Australia, although in its winter season during the northern summer, still attracts travelers looking for mild weather, natural wonders, and fewer crowds. Sydney remains popular for harbor walks, coastal hikes to Bondi Beach, and vibrant food spots. Melbourne offers cozy laneway cafés and quick access to the scenic Great Ocean Road. Meanwhile, tropical North Queensland stays warm, drawing visitors to the Great Barrier Reef and lush rainforests. While it’s not peak beach weather in the south, Australia’s mix of wildlife, nature, and culture still appeals to off-season adventurers this summer.

9. France – Summer Elegance & Timeless Beauty

France shines in the summer with café-lined streets, blooming lavender fields, and sparkling coastlines. Paris offers long golden evenings by the Seine, while the French Riviera buzzes with beach clubs in Nice and Cannes. Provence is perfect for aesthetic countryside escapes and wine lovers head to Bordeaux and Burgundy. Whether it’s art, food, or fashion, France turns every summer day into a postcard.

10. Thailand – Tropical Heat & Island Hopping

Thailand is a summer favorite for its mix of exotic beaches, lively markets, and rich culture. Bangkok buzzes with night bazaars, rooftop bars, and golden temples, while islands like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi offer crystal-clear waters and iconic long-tail boats. Travelers chase waterfalls in Chiang Mai, explore jungle temples, and unwind at beach clubs with ocean views. Whether you’re diving in turquoise bays or dancing at a full moon party, Thailand is tropical summer energy at its best.