Global travel authority Lonely Planet has unveiled its top destinations to visit next year with the release of Best in Travel 2025, its 15th publication of their annual collection. Highlighting Lonely Planet’s expert predictions for the coming year, this best-selling book, along with its online and social editions, showcases 30 must-visit destinations from all around the globe. This year, the guide includes the Top 10 Countries, Top 10 Cities, Top 10 Regions and Top 10 Emerging Travel Trends.
Ranked as #4 in the prestigious Top 10 Regions in the world, Tasmania’s Launceston and the Tamar Valley show off the happy marriage of nature and nurture, from the craggy Cataract Gorge and local natural experiences to some of Australia’s most impressive wineries, artisanal producers and dining.
“This region is one of Australia’s most blessed, with a distinct mix of stunning natural attractions and some of the best wineries and restaurants. Its title as Australia’s second UNSECO City of Gastronomy and inclusion as one of the Top Regions for 2025 are well deserved. There’s a wealth of gastronomic temptations to discover like Stillwater Restaurant, Josef Chromy Wines and the famous Harvest outdoor market in Launnie (as locals love to call Launceston).
“The region also offers travellers an array of amazing outdoor experiences. From mountain biking to skiing, camping and trekking in the famous Ben Lamond National Park,” shares Chris Zeiher, Lonely Planet’s Senior Director of Trade Sales and Marketing.
As always, Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 unearths some lesser-known gems like Genoa in Italy, Switzerland’s Valais region and Lithuania. England’s East Anglia, Pittsburgh in the United States, and Edmonton in Canada offer other fresh takes for travellers. Joining the list, Australia’s’ tropical neighbour Vanuatu is ranked as the #8 Country to visit in 2025, boasting a wild and rugged 83-island archipelago and deep local culture. Fiji is also celebrated as the #2 Country.
For the coming year, this must-have travel guide also features the top 10 emerging travel trends, highlighting some notable Australian inclusions:
Selecting the destinations each year starts with nominations from Lonely Planet’s vast community of staff, contributors from around the world, publishing partners and more. This year, their panel of experts curated 30 must-see places across countries, cities and regions to include 10 exciting travel trends. Each inclusion is chosen for its topicality, unique experiences, ‘wow’ factor and its ongoing commitment to sustainability, community and diversity.
“Best in Travel 2025 is the latest edition of Lonely Planet’s annual love letter to the world. While mindful of our responsibilities and impact as travellers, we’re proud of the destinations, journeys and experiences featured here and are excited to share the local expertise and insight at the heart of these recommendations,” said Nitya Chambers, Lonely Planet’s SVP, Content and Executive Editor. “Wherever you are in the world, we’re confident ‘Best in Travel’ brings fresh inspiration for the year ahead.”
With a RRP of $32.99, Best in Travel 2025 is essential gift-giving for the traveller in your life.
Visit shop.lonelyplanet.com for purchase and lonelyplanet.com/best-in-travel for more insight.
Our award-winning magazines and cookbooks celebrate our country’s rich biodiversity, highlighting how enjoying and protecting nature go hand in hand. As a non-profit, we proudly back the Conservation and Wildlife Research Trust (CWRT), funding environmental projects and supporting budding researchers in the field.
