If you regularly hop on a plane to explore the world, or spend plenty of time thinking about it, you might know travel trends are evolving.
Where once lying on a beach or ticking off tourist attractions on foot were the biggest drawcards, now the way we travel is more diverse.
To reflect our desires, popular travel guide Lonely Planet has revealed its list of the the top ten travel trends for the year ahead.
Jumping on and off a train, be it a long-distance journey or taking a more localised route, is the number one trend it picked for 2025. Of course, sun worshipers fear not, the travel experts say, “offering relaxation, unspoiled beauty and a connection with nature, beach vacations will always be on trend.”
The list is accompanied by a selection of the best destinations for travelers to experience these trends in real life in the 15th edition of Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel’ guide.
Lonely Planet’s Top 10 travel trends for 2025
1. Train Hopping
From cross-continental epic voyages to slow travel branch lines, rail-based adventures are more popular than ever with contemporary travelers.
2. Taking it Easy
Slow travel emphasises the value of being present in the natural world, to escape from the stress and worry of an always-on digital world.
3. Following the Music
Experience-based travel continues to resonate with music-lovers in search of iconic venues around the world.
4. Extreme Birdwatching
Now more than ever, bird enthusiasts are planning entire vacations around viewing their favorite feathered friends.
5. Marvelous Markets
Interest in local markets continues to soar as travelers seek sensory ways to immerse themselves in local life.
6. What a Drag
The most spectacular drag shows in the world are celebrations of inclusivity and connection, bringing people together through artistic and human expression.
7. Underrated Parks
Intrepid adventures are vying to find the most under-the-radar parks and reserves, reclaiming the outdoors from the masses to experience the natural world without waiting in line.
8. Local Flavors
Eating and travel are inextricably linked, and more and more travelers are seeking out destinations where distinctive and delicious cuisine and local food culture get top-billing.
9. Arboreal Adventures
Places known for their remarkable trees and forests are in high demand as travelers discover novel approaches to connecting with their surroundings.
10. Best Beaches
Offering relaxation, unspoiled beauty and a connection with nature, beach vacations will always be on trend.
