ToursByLocals Blog Posts
Top Destinations for 2025
Jan 02 2025
As we step into 2025, the world of travel is calling us with new adventures, destinations, and unique experiences. Are you dreaming of vibrant city escapes, incredible landscapes, cultural experiences, hidden gems off the beaten path... or maybe a destination that captures all of this and more? The year ahead promises something special for every traveller. In this list, we’re uncovering the top 10 trending destinations at ToursByLocals based on our booking data so far for 2025—places that blend culture, adventure, and unforgettable moments.
Ever since ToursByLocals’ inception in 2008, Tokyo has been an extremely in-demand destination, regularly occupying a spot in our top five most popular places to book a tour. After nearly 3 years of pandemic shut-down, tourism to Japan roared back in 2023 and 2024, making the most popular destinations in the world for ToursByLocals travellers.
There are direct flights to Tokyo from all over, with more routes popping up all the time. The city offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and food adventures to locals and travellers alike. The city's history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa and in many excellent museums, historic temples and gardens. And it’s not all skyscrapers, glass and concrete; Tokyo also offers a number of lovely and calm green spaces in the city center and within relatively short train rides at its outskirts.
We have a feeling that sakura (cherry blossom) season is going to be particularly popular this year, so if you’re travelling to Tokyo in the springtime, you’ll want to book tours very soon.
No surprise to see Rome sitting right near the top of the list! The Italian capital city will always be a firm favourite, along with Italy's other star destinations, like Venice, Florence, Amalfi, Tuscany...too many to name!
The Eternal City has a way of sweeping travellers off their feet with its perfect mix of ancient wonders and lively charm. And this year is Rome’s Jubilee year, so there will be even more going on! Imagine walking through history at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, or Pantheon, where stories of gladiators and emperors come to life. Then, step into the Vatican City to marvel at the breathtaking beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. Of course Rome isn’t just about its famous landmarks—take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestoned streets of Trastevere, grab a scoop of gelato, and soak up the warm glow of its piazzas. End your day by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, sealing your promise to return to this enchanting city.
Boasting 17 World Heritage sites and a stunning array of Buddhist temples and Shintō shrines, Kyoto is a treasure house of Japanese history and culture. But while this ancient city is one of the world's most culturally rich places, its true beauty can sometimes lie hidden behind modern facades. When you take a Kyoto tour with a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll discover the “real' Kyoto - the Kyoto of your dreams.
Walk with your guide around Old Kyoto, through winding alleys lined with traditional narrow wooden houses. In Gion Corner you can experience dance performances by apprentice geisha, and learn about the traditional Japanese arts of puppetry and flower arranging. Your guide will want you to see Kinkaju, the shimmering Golden Pavillion, and the beautiful Kiyomizu Temple - especially during the spring Cherry Blossom season. As in Tokyo, we expect spring time to be a particularly busy season for visiting Japan in 2025, so if you’re hoping to go at cherry blossom time, book your guide soon! These tours sold out last year.
2024 brought the Olympics to Paris, and 2025 brings something potentially greater for tourism: the re-opening of Notre Dame cathedral, 5 years after a fire destroyed much of the iconic Gothic cathedral. The cathedral re-opened its doors to the public in mid-December, and local guides are thrilled to once again be able to incorporate visits to Notre Dame in their tour itineraries.
After a visit to Notre Dame, stroll through the nearby historic Marais district, where cobblestoned streets lead to boutique shops, art galleries, and the stunning Place des Vosges. Admire world-class art at the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, or discover the whimsical architecture and gardens of Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, with its remarkable view of Sacre Coeur. For a taste of Parisian elegance, explore the boutiques along the Champs-Élysées or people-watch with a café crème in hand at a sidewalk café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Don’t miss a climb up the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking views of the city, followed by a wander through the bohemian streets of Montmartre. Feet tired? A sunset cruise along the Seine River at the end of the day is pure magic, offering a fresh perspective on the City of Light.
Be sure to also check out these fabulous day trips from Paris, when you’re ready to explore other French delights beyond the city.
Singapore is the third Asian city in our top five for 2025 - a first!
Singapore is a city where cultures meet, flavours collide, and innovation thrives—all wrapped in a lush, warmly tropical setting. Start your journey at Marina Bay Sands, where the city skyline dazzles, then wander through the stunning Gardens by the Bay, home to futuristic Supertrees and tranquil flower domes. Dive into the rich history of Chinatown or Little India, where colourful streets and aromatic food stalls invite you to explore…and taste! Savour Singapore’s world-famous hawker food—don’t miss the chilli crab, fragrant creamy laksa noodles or Hainanese chicken rice. As evening falls, stroll along Clarke Quay or catch the light and water show at Marina Bay. Singapore’s unique blend of tradition and modernity promises an unforgettable trip!
London is always going to be a place that beckons people who love everything from hidden Roman history to Victorian literature, to a cozy pint in a centuries-old pub where Shakespeare once sat. It’s a city that tells stories around every corner, especially if you explore it with a local guide.
It’s also our duty to remind you that England is so much more than just London, and as a small country with an excellent rail system, it’s very easy to explore beyond the capital. Local guides have a fabulous roster of day tours that take you out of the city and into the towns, villages, coast and countryside England is famous for. Bath, Oxford, Stonehenge, Dover, Salisbury, Cambridge… north, south, east or west, you’ll find a day’s adventure waiting for you!
Barcelona has long been a fan favourite among ToursByLocals travellers. With its warm climate, coastal breezes, and incredible food and drink, this fascinating city is also incredibly fun.
Much of Barcelona's charm lies in Gaudí's fantastical structures like Sagrada Família and Park Güell. You can wander the historic Gothic Quarter, feel the buzz of La Rambla, and dive into tapas heaven at La Boqueria market. Relax on sunny beaches or explore art at the Picasso Museum and Joan Miró Foundation. Barcelona's mix of history, art, delicious food, and vibrant energy welcomes travellers of all kinds! Its temperate climate makes it a lovely place to go when much of Europe is still feeling the chill of late winter.
If you’re planning a trip here, we recommend taking some time to step away from the crowds in the city with a daytrip to the other parts of Catalonia. Explore the medieval villages of Tavertet and Rupit, where scenic cliffs and rustic architecture create a tranquil retreat, or walk the less crowded trails around Montserrat Monastery to enjoy stunning views of unique rock formations. For nature lovers, Delta del Ebro Natural Park offers serene beaches, birdwatching, and cycling paths far from the city’s bustle. History and culture enthusiasts can visit Vic, a small city with a charming old town and vibrant weekly market, or head to Sant Sadurní d'Anoia to tour family-run wineries and savour the slower pace of Catalonia’s wine country.
Athens offers an unparalleled mix of ancient history and modern vibrancy. Begin your journey at the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon and breathtaking views of the city, then explore the Acropolis Museum to delve deeper into its storied past. Stroll through the historic Plaka neighbourhood with its charming narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and inviting tavernas. Discover the lively Monastiraki district, perfect for shopping at eclectic markets or enjoying a coffee with views of ancient ruins. For a taste of modern Athens, visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre or catch the sunset from Mount Lycabettus. Wrap up your day savouring traditional Greek cuisine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the illuminated Acropolis.
One more suggestion for Athens: considering going in low-season, when fewer cruise ships are in port, and the weather is more temperate. Or if you go in high season, secure your guide by booking your tour early, and plan your more active exploration for the morning and evening.
Sitting astride seven hills and overlooking the majestic Rio Tejo, lies the exquisite city of Lisbon. Replete with centuries-old history, yet exuding a youthful vibe, the city is an absolutely delightful place to explore.
The sights in Lisbon are plenty - from St Jerome Monastery to Belem Tower - and walking around its many enchanting neighbourhoods with your very own Portuguese guide is a wonderful way to discover the city. Take a bright yellow tram through the narrow cobbled streets of the Moorish Alfama quarter and enjoy lunch on a patio while listening to traditional Fado music. Shop the upscale boutiques in trendy Chiado, and take the steep funicular ride to the Bairro Alto for the city's best nightlife. And save time for a short day trip to Sintra! This colourful, magical place will imprint on your memory.
We think local guide Ines sums up why you should come here perfectly: “Life is short and Lisbon is amazing. Great weather, great food, such welcoming people, vibrant cultural life, great cityscape, amazing nature around it...what else do we need in life?”
We have a big soft spot for Buenos Aires, as quite a few of the ToursByLocals staff team is based in the Argentinian capital. It’s the land of football and grand boulevards, empanadas and maté, tango and nightlife. The city bursts with grand colonial facades and colourful, crumbling buildings, living side by side. Distinct neighbourhoods all have their own flavour, and the local guides in Buenos Aires are excited to welcome you and share with you their favourite places.
With a surge of travellers wanting to take bucket list trips to Antarctica, Buenos Aires is seeing more people including it as part of a larger trip to the tip of South America. We suggest timing your visit with the beautiful Jacaranda blooming season in November (late spring in the southern hemisphere).
Knowing that many people are planning to travel to these international hot spots, you may wish to plan your visit there during low or shoulder season in 2025, or to consider branching out from the major cities to smaller, less touristed spots as a part of your vacation plans.
Top Travel Destinations for 2025
Tokyo
Ever since ToursByLocals’ inception in 2008, Tokyo has been an extremely in-demand destination, regularly occupying a spot in our top five most popular places to book a tour. After nearly 3 years of pandemic shut-down, tourism to Japan roared back in 2023 and 2024, making the most popular destinations in the world for ToursByLocals travellers.
There are direct flights to Tokyo from all over, with more routes popping up all the time. The city offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and food adventures to locals and travellers alike. The city's history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa and in many excellent museums, historic temples and gardens. And it’s not all skyscrapers, glass and concrete; Tokyo also offers a number of lovely and calm green spaces in the city center and within relatively short train rides at its outskirts.
We have a feeling that sakura (cherry blossom) season is going to be particularly popular this year, so if you’re travelling to Tokyo in the springtime, you’ll want to book tours very soon.
Rome
No surprise to see Rome sitting right near the top of the list! The Italian capital city will always be a firm favourite, along with Italy's other star destinations, like Venice, Florence, Amalfi, Tuscany...too many to name!
The Eternal City has a way of sweeping travellers off their feet with its perfect mix of ancient wonders and lively charm. And this year is Rome’s Jubilee year, so there will be even more going on! Imagine walking through history at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, or Pantheon, where stories of gladiators and emperors come to life. Then, step into the Vatican City to marvel at the breathtaking beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. Of course Rome isn’t just about its famous landmarks—take a leisurely stroll through the cobblestoned streets of Trastevere, grab a scoop of gelato, and soak up the warm glow of its piazzas. End your day by tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, sealing your promise to return to this enchanting city.
Kyoto
Boasting 17 World Heritage sites and a stunning array of Buddhist temples and Shintō shrines, Kyoto is a treasure house of Japanese history and culture. But while this ancient city is one of the world's most culturally rich places, its true beauty can sometimes lie hidden behind modern facades. When you take a Kyoto tour with a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll discover the “real' Kyoto - the Kyoto of your dreams.
Walk with your guide around Old Kyoto, through winding alleys lined with traditional narrow wooden houses. In Gion Corner you can experience dance performances by apprentice geisha, and learn about the traditional Japanese arts of puppetry and flower arranging. Your guide will want you to see Kinkaju, the shimmering Golden Pavillion, and the beautiful Kiyomizu Temple - especially during the spring Cherry Blossom season. As in Tokyo, we expect spring time to be a particularly busy season for visiting Japan in 2025, so if you’re hoping to go at cherry blossom time, book your guide soon! These tours sold out last year.
Paris
2024 brought the Olympics to Paris, and 2025 brings something potentially greater for tourism: the re-opening of Notre Dame cathedral, 5 years after a fire destroyed much of the iconic Gothic cathedral. The cathedral re-opened its doors to the public in mid-December, and local guides are thrilled to once again be able to incorporate visits to Notre Dame in their tour itineraries.
After a visit to Notre Dame, stroll through the nearby historic Marais district, where cobblestoned streets lead to boutique shops, art galleries, and the stunning Place des Vosges. Admire world-class art at the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, or discover the whimsical architecture and gardens of Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, with its remarkable view of Sacre Coeur. For a taste of Parisian elegance, explore the boutiques along the Champs-Élysées or people-watch with a café crème in hand at a sidewalk café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Don’t miss a climb up the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for breathtaking views of the city, followed by a wander through the bohemian streets of Montmartre. Feet tired? A sunset cruise along the Seine River at the end of the day is pure magic, offering a fresh perspective on the City of Light.
Be sure to also check out these fabulous day trips from Paris, when you’re ready to explore other French delights beyond the city.
Singapore
Singapore is the third Asian city in our top five for 2025 - a first!
Singapore is a city where cultures meet, flavours collide, and innovation thrives—all wrapped in a lush, warmly tropical setting. Start your journey at Marina Bay Sands, where the city skyline dazzles, then wander through the stunning Gardens by the Bay, home to futuristic Supertrees and tranquil flower domes. Dive into the rich history of Chinatown or Little India, where colourful streets and aromatic food stalls invite you to explore…and taste! Savour Singapore’s world-famous hawker food—don’t miss the chilli crab, fragrant creamy laksa noodles or Hainanese chicken rice. As evening falls, stroll along Clarke Quay or catch the light and water show at Marina Bay. Singapore’s unique blend of tradition and modernity promises an unforgettable trip!
London
London is always going to be a place that beckons people who love everything from hidden Roman history to Victorian literature, to a cozy pint in a centuries-old pub where Shakespeare once sat. It’s a city that tells stories around every corner, especially if you explore it with a local guide.
It’s also our duty to remind you that England is so much more than just London, and as a small country with an excellent rail system, it’s very easy to explore beyond the capital. Local guides have a fabulous roster of day tours that take you out of the city and into the towns, villages, coast and countryside England is famous for. Bath, Oxford, Stonehenge, Dover, Salisbury, Cambridge… north, south, east or west, you’ll find a day’s adventure waiting for you!
Barcelona
Barcelona has long been a fan favourite among ToursByLocals travellers. With its warm climate, coastal breezes, and incredible food and drink, this fascinating city is also incredibly fun.
Much of Barcelona's charm lies in Gaudí's fantastical structures like Sagrada Família and Park Güell. You can wander the historic Gothic Quarter, feel the buzz of La Rambla, and dive into tapas heaven at La Boqueria market. Relax on sunny beaches or explore art at the Picasso Museum and Joan Miró Foundation. Barcelona's mix of history, art, delicious food, and vibrant energy welcomes travellers of all kinds! Its temperate climate makes it a lovely place to go when much of Europe is still feeling the chill of late winter.
If you’re planning a trip here, we recommend taking some time to step away from the crowds in the city with a daytrip to the other parts of Catalonia. Explore the medieval villages of Tavertet and Rupit, where scenic cliffs and rustic architecture create a tranquil retreat, or walk the less crowded trails around Montserrat Monastery to enjoy stunning views of unique rock formations. For nature lovers, Delta del Ebro Natural Park offers serene beaches, birdwatching, and cycling paths far from the city’s bustle. History and culture enthusiasts can visit Vic, a small city with a charming old town and vibrant weekly market, or head to Sant Sadurní d'Anoia to tour family-run wineries and savour the slower pace of Catalonia’s wine country.
Athens
Athens offers an unparalleled mix of ancient history and modern vibrancy. Begin your journey at the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon and breathtaking views of the city, then explore the Acropolis Museum to delve deeper into its storied past. Stroll through the historic Plaka neighbourhood with its charming narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and inviting tavernas. Discover the lively Monastiraki district, perfect for shopping at eclectic markets or enjoying a coffee with views of ancient ruins. For a taste of modern Athens, visit the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre or catch the sunset from Mount Lycabettus. Wrap up your day savouring traditional Greek cuisine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the illuminated Acropolis.
One more suggestion for Athens: considering going in low-season, when fewer cruise ships are in port, and the weather is more temperate. Or if you go in high season, secure your guide by booking your tour early, and plan your more active exploration for the morning and evening.
Lisbon
Sitting astride seven hills and overlooking the majestic Rio Tejo, lies the exquisite city of Lisbon. Replete with centuries-old history, yet exuding a youthful vibe, the city is an absolutely delightful place to explore.
The sights in Lisbon are plenty - from St Jerome Monastery to Belem Tower - and walking around its many enchanting neighbourhoods with your very own Portuguese guide is a wonderful way to discover the city. Take a bright yellow tram through the narrow cobbled streets of the Moorish Alfama quarter and enjoy lunch on a patio while listening to traditional Fado music. Shop the upscale boutiques in trendy Chiado, and take the steep funicular ride to the Bairro Alto for the city's best nightlife. And save time for a short day trip to Sintra! This colourful, magical place will imprint on your memory.
We think local guide Ines sums up why you should come here perfectly: “Life is short and Lisbon is amazing. Great weather, great food, such welcoming people, vibrant cultural life, great cityscape, amazing nature around it...what else do we need in life?”
Buenos Aires
We have a big soft spot for Buenos Aires, as quite a few of the ToursByLocals staff team is based in the Argentinian capital. It’s the land of football and grand boulevards, empanadas and maté, tango and nightlife. The city bursts with grand colonial facades and colourful, crumbling buildings, living side by side. Distinct neighbourhoods all have their own flavour, and the local guides in Buenos Aires are excited to welcome you and share with you their favourite places.
With a surge of travellers wanting to take bucket list trips to Antarctica, Buenos Aires is seeing more people including it as part of a larger trip to the tip of South America. We suggest timing your visit with the beautiful Jacaranda blooming season in November (late spring in the southern hemisphere).
Knowing that many people are planning to travel to these international hot spots, you may wish to plan your visit there during low or shoulder season in 2025, or to consider branching out from the major cities to smaller, less touristed spots as a part of your vacation plans.