Skip to content
logo Germany's largest online travel magazine
Selected by National Geographic

The 25 Coolest Travel Experiences Worldwide

One of the best travel experiences of 2025, as chosen by National Geographic, takes you to Barbados.
One of the best travel experiences of 2025, as chosen by National Geographic, takes you to Barbados. Photo: Getty Images

May 31, 2025, 12:48 pm | Read time: 5 minutes

National Geographic annually publishes a “Best of the World” travel guide, showcasing the year’s top experiences, hotels, restaurants, wellness, and cultural spots. TRAVELBOOK provides an overview of the 25 best adventures you can experience in 2025, according to National Geographic.

Share article

Diving in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine areas, experiencing traditional Japanese culture, or perhaps a safari? Among the 25 most exciting, meaningful, and unique travel experiences worldwide, 2025 offers something for every taste. TRAVELBOOK presents three personal favorites from the list curated by National Geographic in detail and reveals which travel experiences made it into the top 25.

The 3 Best Travel Experiences for 2025

1. An Icefjord Tour in Greenland

Thanks to the new international airport, traveling to Greenland is easier than ever
Thanks to the new international airport, traveling to Greenland is easier than ever

Greenland lies deep in the Arctic ice, far north of the Arctic Circle, and was long difficult to reach. But with the new international airport in the capital, Nuuk, and expanded flight connections, the world’s largest island is becoming increasingly accessible. From Germany, Greenland is best reached via stopovers in Denmark, such as in Copenhagen, which serves as an important hub. From there, airlines like Air Greenland offer regular connections to Nuuk and other cities in Greenland. During the summer months, there are also connections via Canada, such as from Copenhagen via Reykjavik to Iqaluit, with onward connections to Ottawa and Montreal. Travel experiences in Greenland range from exploring vast ice fjords to immersing oneself in the rich culture of the indigenous Inuit.

Also interesting: These 4 travel destinations are actively seeking more tourists

2. Volcano Hike on Acatenango in Guatemala with a View of the Active Volcán de Fuego

The Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala is one of the most active volcanoes worldwide
The Volcán de Fuego in Guatemala is one of the most active volcanoes worldwide

The aptly named Volcán de Fuego (Spanish for “Fire Volcano”) in Guatemala is not only one of the most active volcanoes worldwide but also fascinates visitors with its impressive eruptions. To experience this natural spectacle up close, the best option is a hike on the neighboring Acatenango. At 3,976 meters, it is the third-highest volcano in the country. From its summit, there is a breathtaking view of the spectacular eruptions of the Volcán de Fuego. The challenging tour leads through lush cloud forests and coffee plantations that stretch along the mountain slopes. Various operators such as OX Expeditions, Antigua Tours, or the Hotel Casa Santo Domingo organize one- or two-day tours from the charming colonial city of Antigua, which, with its cobblestone streets and idyllic squares, is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

3. Exploring Roman Ruins in Tunisian Thugga

Thugga is the best-preserved Roman city in North Africa
Thugga is the best-preserved Roman city in North Africa

Tunisia was once part of the Roman Empire and therefore has a wealth of remarkably intact archaeological ruins. Moreover, new artifacts are constantly being discovered. For example, a 2,000-year-old shipwreck was discovered off the Tunisian coast last year. About two hours southwest of Tunis, visitors can gain a fascinating insight into daily life in antiquity in Thugga, considered the best-preserved Roman city in North Africa. Walking through the streets, one can visit not only Roman baths but also explore the temples of Juno and Saturn. Additionally, a theater with 3,500 seats can be discovered, as well as stones with Latin inscriptions. Particularly impressive is the imposing Capitol building, whose still-preserved colonnade offers a striking sight.

More on the topic

The Best Experiences 2025 at a Glance

  • Antigua, Guatemala – Volcano hike on Acatenango with a view of the active Volcán de Fuego
  • Ocala National Forest, Florida, USA – Nature experience in one of the last wild places in Florida with hiking, swimming in springs, and wildlife observation
  • Bangkok, Thailand – Visit the restored Wat Chaiwatthanaram temple and art festivals
  • Raja Ampat, Indonesia – Diving and snorkeling in one of the world’s most biodiverse marine areas
  • Guadalajara, Mexico – Live experience of Mariachi music and Charrería at the annual festival
  • Cenobitic Monasteries, Italy – Spiritual retreat with Gregorian chant, meditation, and art
  • Los Angeles, California, USA – Discover new art museums like the Lucas Museum and Destination Crenshaw
  • Greenland – Icefjord tours, experience Inuit culture, take advantage of new direct flights
  • Kanazawa, Japan – Experience traditional Japan away from the crowds with Geisha districts, gold leaf art, and typical Japanese gardens
  • Eastern & Oriental Express, Malaysia – Luxury train journey through Malaysia’s jungle with wildlife observation
  • Brașov, Romania – Hiking along the 1,400-kilometer Transilvanica Trail
  • Cerrado, Brazil – Maned wolf safari and birdwatching in the unique savanna
  • Northland, New Zealand – Diving in the Poor Knights Reserve and observing kiwi birds
  • Senegal – Culinary journey with street food tours and communal dining in Dakar
  • Haida Gwaii, Canada – Experience Haida culture, whale watching, and coastal hikes
  • Barbados – Visit the new Heritage District and learn more about Barbados’ role in the history of the U.S. slave trade
  • Suru Valley, India – Bouldering and climbing in the Himalayas at an outdoor festival
  • Boise, Idaho, USA – Participate in the Basque festival Jaialdi with music, dance, and sports
  • Abu Dhabi, UAE – Visit new museums like the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum
  • Murray River, Australia – River cruise with wine tasting, barbecues, and nature experiences
  • KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa – Safari in the Babanango Game Reserve with Big Five sightings
  • Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden – Island hiking on the new Archipelago Trail
  • Cork, Ireland – Experience culture and music at the “Sounds from a Safe Harbour” festival
  • Outer Hebrides, Scotland – Hiking and cycling on the “Hebridean Way” route
  • Tunisia – Explore Roman ruins in Thugga, the best-preserved Roman city in North Africa
  • Sarajevo, Bosnia, and Herzegovina – Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina and winner of this year’s reader’s choice for the best travel experience, captivates with a fascinating mix of history, nature, and culture—from wine tastings and river rafting to moving landmarks like the Tunnel of Salvation

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of TRAVELBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@travelbook.de.

Topics Africa Asia BILDreisen Europe Thailand USA
You have successfully withdrawn your consent to the processing of personal data through tracking and advertising when using this website. You can now consent to data processing again or object to legitimate interests.