The following guide unpacks why each city belongs on your 2025 bucket list, what sights and excursions to prioritise, where to savour local cuisine (complete with addresses and must-try dishes), and a selection of the best hotels across budget-friendly, boutique, and luxury categories. Let’s set off on a journey that spans continents and immerses you in the diverse brilliance of the world’s most visited destinations.
1. PARIS, FRANCE
Why Go in 2025
- Timeless Romance: With its storied boulevards and artistic legacy, Paris continues to enchant visitors. Even in an ever-evolving global landscape, the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity remains captivating.
- Artistic Renaissance: By 2025, renovations at landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and new gallery spaces in major museums such as the Louvre may be completed or in advanced stages, unveiling fresh perspectives on classic treasures.
- Culinary Creativity: Paris’s renowned dining scene goes beyond haute cuisine, embracing global fusion and innovative bistros that celebrate sustainability and locally sourced produce.
Best Places to See
- Eiffel Tower: The quintessential emblem of Paris. Ascend in late afternoon for sweeping views, then watch the tower sparkle after dusk.
- Louvre Museum: A maze of galleries brimming with masterpieces from the Mona Lisa to the Venus de Milo, best tackled with a map or a guided tour.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: Historic Gothic architecture in the process of full restoration; even partial glimpses offer a glimpse into its grandeur.
- Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur: A bohemian quarter famous for its artistic heritage, steep streets, and panoramic cityscape from the basilica steps.
- Le Marais: A district rich in medieval lanes, galleries, and designer shops. Perfect for afternoon strolls and people-watching in cafes.
Best Excursions to Try
- Seine River Cruise: Drift past major landmarks in a romantic, relaxed setting, particularly magical after dark with the city illuminated.
- Day Trip to Versailles: Marvel at the opulent palace and sprawling gardens once home to French royalty, a short train ride from central Paris.
- Wine Tasting Classes: Gain insights into French wine regions, sampling reds, whites, and champagnes paired with cheeses.
- Montmartre Walking Tour: Dive deeper into the neighbourhood’s artistic past, from Van Gogh’s haunts to hidden corners with street art.
- Hidden Passages Tour: Explore 19th-century covered passages near Grands Boulevards, discovering boutique shops and Belle Époque charm.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Chez Janou
- Address: 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris
- Best menu items: Provençal rabbit stew and a lavish chocolate mousse for dessert.
- Le Comptoir du Relais
- Address: 9 Carrefour de l’Odéon, 75006 Paris
- Best menu items: Steak frites, fresh oysters, and seasonal daily specials rooted in classic French cuisine.
- Mokonuts
- Address: 5 Rue Saint-Bernard, 75011 Paris
- Best menu items: Small plates blending Middle Eastern influences, plus acclaimed homemade cookies.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- Hotel Audran
Located in Montmartre, offering straightforward rooms at a moderate cost, steps away from the district’s iconic cafes and bars. - Mama Shelter Paris East
A fun, trendy property in the 20th arrondissement, featuring compact yet stylish rooms, communal workspaces, and a lively on-site restaurant.
Best Boutique Hotels
- Hotel Henriette
Situated near the Latin Quarter, combining vintage-chic décor with a welcoming courtyard and a relaxed atmosphere. - C.O.Q. Hotel
Short for “Community of Quality,” found near Place d’Italie, it offers a blend of contemporary design and cosy communal areas, perfect for design-conscious travellers.
Best Luxury Hotels
- Le Meurice
An opulent hotel facing the Tuileries Garden, pairing Louis XVI-style interiors with a two-Michelin-starred restaurant. - The Peninsula Paris
Near the Arc de Triomphe, boasting lavish suites, a gourmet rooftop dining experience, and a serene spa.
2. LONDON, UK
Why Go in 2025
- Cultural Diversity: London perpetually reinvents itself, blending royal traditions with cutting-edge art, theatre, and music.
- Major Exhibitions: By 2025, expansions at key museums and celebrations of British milestones may enrich the city’s cultural calendar.
- Global Cuisine: From Michelin-starred Indian eateries to avant-garde food markets, London’s dining scene appeals to every palate.
Best Places to See
- The British Museum: A free institution housing global antiquities, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.
- Tower of London: Delve into a thousand years of monarchy, intrigue, and the priceless Crown Jewels.
- Buckingham Palace: Witness the Changing of the Guard, a longstanding emblem of the British Royal Family.
- Tate Modern: Housed in a repurposed power station on the South Bank, championing contemporary art from around the world.
- Covent Garden: A lively mix of street performers, theatres, and shops in a historical piazza.
Best Excursions to Try
- Day Trip to Windsor Castle: Roam royal halls and scenic grounds, just a short train ride from central London.
- Boat Cruise on the Thames: Enjoy city vistas from the water, especially enchanting at dusk.
- Harry Potter Studio Tour: Explore sets, costumes, and props from the beloved film series in Leavesden.
- Soho & Chinatown Food Tour: Sample global street eats and discover hidden bars in one of London’s most dynamic areas.
- Greenwich Heritage Walk: Cross the meridian line, see the Cutty Sark, and appreciate maritime history.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Padella
- Address: 6 Southwark Street, SE1 1TQ
- Best menu items: Hand-rolled pasta dishes like pici cacio e pepe, accompanied by hearty Italian wines.
- Dishoom
- Address: Multiple locations (e.g. 22 Kingly Street, W1B 5QP)
- Best menu items: Bacon naan roll for breakfast, house black daal for an authentic taste of Bombay café culture.
- The Wolseley
- Address: 160 Piccadilly, W1J 9EB
- Best menu items: Classic English breakfasts, afternoon tea, and schnitzels in an elegant, grand café setting.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- YHA London St Pancras
Opposite King’s Cross, offering both dorms and private rooms, ideal for travellers prioritising location. - Clink78
A fun, lively hostel housed in a former courthouse near King’s Cross, with nightly events for backpackers.
Best Boutique Hotels
- Artist Residence London, Pimlico
An eclectic property featuring original artwork and an intimate bar/restaurant, walking distance to Victoria Station. - The Henrietta Hotel, Covent Garden
Modern minimalism meets old-world charm near the theatre district, known for a cosy bar and imaginative design.
Best Luxury Hotels
- The Savoy
An institution near the Strand with Art Deco glamour, famed for its American Bar and timeless hospitality. - Claridge’s
A Mayfair icon revered for afternoon tea, gracious service, and sophisticated suites that personify London elegance.
3. NEW YORK, USA
Why Go in 2025
- Cultural Mecca: From Broadway to world-class art museums, New York’s creative pulse never slows, ensuring fresh shows, new gallery wings, and pop-up experiences each season.
- Global Fusion: A culinary scene that merges multiple heritages, guaranteeing novel dining concepts and niche cafes in every borough.
- Neighbourhood Renaissance: Districts like the Lower East Side, Bushwick, and Harlem continue to bloom with street art, music venues, and fusion eateries.
Best Places to See
- Central Park: Encompassing 843 acres of lawns, lakes, and paths, perfect for both relaxation and photography.
- Times Square: Known for neon billboards and round-the-clock energy, a must for first-timers (though usually a quick visit).
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Monumental emblems of American ideals, accessible via ferry tours with a chance to delve into migration history.
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum: A deeply poignant space honouring resilience and reflection at the World Trade Center site.
- High Line: A repurposed elevated railway turned park, spanning from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards.
Best Excursions to Try
- Broadway Show: Whether a smash-hit musical or a cutting-edge drama, theatre remains a quintessential NYC experience.
- Helicopter Tour: Gain panoramic views of Manhattan’s skyscrapers and urban layout from above.
- Harlem Gospel Tour: Immerse in spiritual music, followed by soul food or a jazz club.
- Day Trip to the Hamptons: Off-peak winter visits bring quiet beaches and quaint small-town charm.
- NYC Ferry Ride: An affordable way to see the city’s coastline and glean local vibes, with routes linking multiple boroughs.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Katz’s Delicatessen
- Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
- Best menu items: Legendary pastrami sandwich and a side of matzo ball soup.
- Lombardi’s Pizza
- Address: 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
- Best menu items: Classic coal-fired pizza margherita and clam pie for seafood lovers.
- Russ & Daughters Café
- Address: 127 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
- Best menu items: Bagel with lox and cream cheese, along with babka French toast for brunch.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- Pod Times Square
Compact, sleek rooms near the Theatre District, with communal lounges and rooftop hangouts. - The Jane Hotel
Quirky, vintage train cabin-inspired rooms in the West Village, known for a storied history and late-night bar scene.
Best Boutique Hotels
- The Ludlow Hotel
In the Lower East Side, featuring industrial-chic design, city views, and a lively restaurant/lounge area. - Arlo Soho
Minimalist aesthetics, communal workspaces, and a social courtyard, set near Hudson Square for quick downtown access.
Best Luxury Hotels
- The Plaza
Overlooking Central Park, steeped in history, famed for afternoon tea, and grand lobbies reminiscent of a regal era. - Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
Nestled in the heart of Lower Manhattan, offering contemporary elegance, a spa retreat, and immediate access to the World Trade Center site.
4. DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
Why Go in 2025
- Futuristic Skyline: Dubai’s architectural ambition sees new landmarks arise yearly. In 2025, visitors can expect fresh attractions in cultural districts and more advanced public transport.
- Year-Round Warmth: Perfect for British and European travellers seeking respite from winter chills, with beach weather and vast desert dunes.
- Retail & Festivals: From the Dubai Shopping Festival to daily shows in Downtown Dubai, the city caters to the shopaholic and festival enthusiast alike.
Best Places to See
- Burj Khalifa: The world’s tallest tower, featuring observation decks affording panoramic desert and Gulf views.
- Dubai Mall: A sprawling shopping complex housing an aquarium, ice rink, and endless dining possibilities.
- Al Fahidi (Bur Dubai): Stroll through museums, art galleries, and wind-tower homes depicting the city’s humble beginnings.
- Palm Jumeirah: Man-made island hosting luxury resorts, waterparks, and scenic beaches.
- Dubai Frame: A massive rectangular frame in Zabeel Park offering vistas of Old Dubai and the futuristic skyline from glass walkways.
Best Excursions to Try
- Desert Safari: Bash dunes in a 4×4, culminating in a Bedouin-style camp with camel rides and traditional entertainment.
- Dhow Cruise: Float along Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina, dining under the city’s lit-up skyline.
- Miracle Garden: A seasonal extravaganza showcasing millions of blooms arranged in awe-inspiring sculptures.
- Ski Dubai: An improbable indoor ski slope in Mall of the Emirates, a novelty for first-timers.
- Gold & Spice Souks: Haggle for jewellery, spices, and souvenirs in Deira’s bustling market corridors.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
- Address: Various locations (e.g., Al Seef, Dubai)
- Best menu items: Machboos (spiced rice with meat) and luqaimat (sweet dumplings).
- Ravi Restaurant
- Address: Al Satwa Rd, Al Satwa, Dubai
- Best menu items: Pakistani curries, fresh naan, and mixed grill platters at friendly prices.
- Zuma
- Address: Gate Village 6, DIFC, Dubai
- Best menu items: Contemporary Japanese signature dishes like black cod with miso, premium sushi assortments.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- Rove Downtown
Bright, cheerful rooms near the Dubai Mall, with communal areas for socialising. - Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf
A reliable choice combining comfortable accommodation, a rooftop pool, and easy metro access.
Best Boutique Hotels
- XVA Art Hotel
Hidden in Al Fahidi, blending heritage architecture with modern art, complemented by a vegetarian café. - Manzil Downtown
Contemporary Arabic design, near the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, featuring stylish rooms and lively restaurants.
Best Luxury Hotels
- Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
A “seven-star” icon with palatial suites, private beach, and personalised butler service. - Armani Hotel Dubai
Occupying part of the Burj Khalifa, exuding minimalist elegance and a top-tier spa, epitomising Giorgio Armani’s signature aesthetic.
5. ISTANBUL, TURKEY
Why Go in 2025
- Historic Crossroads: Istanbul straddles Europe and Asia, weaving Ottoman, Byzantine, and modern Turkish heritage into a single tapestry.
- Cultural Revivals: Restoration projects in Sultanahmet and the Golden Horn emphasise preserving mosques, palaces, and bazaars, ensuring historical brilliance remains.
- Vibrant Neighbourhood Life: Districts such as Karaköy and Balat brim with street art, bohemian cafes, and modern galleries.
Best Places to See
- Hagia Sophia: Once a cathedral, then a mosque, then a museum, now a mosque again, presenting an architectural wonder bridging centuries.
- Topkapi Palace: Former seat of Ottoman sultans, flaunting lush courtyards and an opulent harem.
- Blue Mosque: Officially Sultan Ahmed Mosque, admired for its interior bathed in the glow of Iznik tiles.
- Grand Bazaar: Among the world’s oldest covered markets, with thousands of stalls of textiles, jewellery, and more.
- Galata Tower: Ascend for panoramic views of the Bosphorus and Istanbul’s layered skyline.
Best Excursions to Try
- Bosphorus Cruise: Marvel at palaces, fortresses, and colourful Ottoman villas along the strait dividing two continents.
- Day Trip to the Princes’ Islands: Enjoy a ferry ride to tranquil, car-free isles featuring horse-drawn carriages, lavish mansions, and quiet lanes.
- Traditional Turkish Bath: Relax in an ornate hammam such as Çemberlitaş or Cağaloğlu.
- Whirling Dervishes Ceremony: Witness the spiritual sema ritual performed by Sufi ascetics in an atmospheric setting.
- Istanbul Modern: Explore contemporary art from Turkey and beyond in a new location near the Bosphorus.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Çiya Sofrası
- Address: Güneşlibahçe Sokak 43, Kadıköy, Istanbul
- Best menu items: Anatolian-style stews, kebabs, and mezze capturing the breadth of Turkish regional cuisine.
- Pandeli
- Address: Inside the Spice Bazaar, Eminönü, Istanbul
- Best menu items: Hünkar beğendi (smoked aubergine puree with lamb) and slow-cooked beans.
- Karaköy Gümrük
- Address: Mumhane Cad. No:47, Karaköy, Istanbul
- Best menu items: Modern Turkish seafood, grilled octopus, and pomegranate-infused salads.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- Agora Guesthouse & Hostel
Near Hagia Sophia, featuring dormitory beds and private rooms in a warm, social atmosphere. - Antique Hostel
Steps from the Blue Mosque, offering basic but clean accommodations with a rooftop terrace.
Best Boutique Hotels
- Hotel Empress Zoe
Tucked behind Hagia Sophia, featuring pretty courtyards and rustic-chic decor, a tranquil oasis in the bustling old city. - Tomtom Suites
Set in a historic 19th-century building in Beyoğlu, combining high ceilings with contemporary style and city views.
Best Luxury Hotels
- Çırağan Palace Kempinski
A former Ottoman palace on the Bosphorus, known for palatial suites, a grand pool, and majestic waterside settings. - Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet
Occupies a neoclassical prison building reborn as an upscale gem near main historical landmarks.
6. ROME, ITALY
Why Go in 2025
- Living Museum: Rome’s ancient ruins and Renaissance palazzos exist alongside a modern city constantly refining its artistic and culinary scenes.
- Anniversary Celebrations: The Eternal City often marks important historical or religious anniversaries with extensive cultural events.
- Irresistible Cuisine: From rustic trattorias to Michelin-starred establishments, food culture remains deeply tied to Roman identity.
Best Places to See
- Colosseum: An architectural marvel of the Roman Empire, best toured with a guide for insights into gladiatorial history.
- Trevi Fountain: Iconic baroque fountain; toss a coin to ensure a return visit.
- Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel: A trove of Renaissance splendour culminating in Michelangelo’s legendary frescos.
- Pantheon: A temple-church known for its immense concrete dome and single oculus bathing the interior in natural light.
- Piazza Navona: A vibrant square lined with baroque fountains, street artists, and imposing palazzi.
Best Excursions to Try
- Ostia Antica: A lesser-known site akin to Pompeii, revealing a once-bustling port city near the coast.
- Food Tour in Testaccio: Sample cacio e pepe, supplì, and artisan gelato in a district revered by Roman foodies.
- Villa Borghese: Wander the landscaped gardens, then admire Caravaggio and Bernini in the Galleria Borghese.
- Catacombs Exploration: Delve into early Christian history beneath the city’s surface.
- Cooking Class: Master fresh pasta and classic sauces under local chefs, culminating in a shared feast.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Da Enzo al 29
- Address: Via dei Vascellari 29, 00153 Rome
- Best menu items: Rigatoni cacio e pepe, fried artichokes (carciofi alla giudia).
- Trattoria Da Cesare al Casaletto
- Address: Via del Casaletto 45, 00151 Rome
- Best menu items: Polpette (meatballs) in tomato sauce, comforting carbonara, and a robust local wine list.
- Roscioli Salumeria con Cucina
- Address: Via dei Giubbonari 21, 00186 Rome
- Best menu items: Spaghetti alla gricia, buffalo mozzarella, and a top-tier selection of cured meats and cheeses.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- Hotel Santa Prassede
Steps from Santa Maria Maggiore, offering no-frills rooms, ideal for travellers focusing on sightseeing. - Beehive Hostel
Eco-friendly near Termini Station, featuring a vegetarian café and communal lounge.
Best Boutique Hotels
- Hotel Campo de’ Fiori
Overlooking a bustling market square, featuring a rooftop terrace with city views, plus individually decorated rooms. - Crossing Condotti
Near the Spanish Steps, blending stylish design, modern comforts, and personal touches for a homey feel.
Best Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Eden
Renowned for refined suites, a panoramic rooftop restaurant, and impeccable service near Villa Borghese. - Hassler Roma
Atop the Spanish Steps, steeped in old-world glamour, featuring a Michelin-starred restaurant and regal suites.
7. TOKYO, JAPAN
Why Go in 2025
- Pulsing Contrasts: Tokyo mixes ancient shrines with neon-soaked arcades, embodying a unique synergy of tradition and cutting-edge tech.
- Sustainable Urban Growth: By 2025, the city’s public spaces and eco-friendly transport expansions may be further refined.
- Culinary Metropolis: Home to more Michelin stars than any other city, Tokyo boasts everything from artisan sushi to global fusion.
Best Places to See
- Shibuya Crossing: The definitive scramble intersection, brimming with energy and illuminated billboards.
- Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple: A centuries-old Buddhist site surrounded by shops selling local crafts and snacks.
- Meiji Shrine: Set amid a forest in Shibuya, a serene enclave honouring Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.
- Tokyo Skytree: Standing 634 metres tall, offering observation decks with panoramic cityscapes.
- Tsukiji Outer Market: Although the main fish market relocated, the outer stalls remain for sampling fresh sushi and produce.
Best Excursions to Try
- Hakone Day Trip: Hot springs, mountain railways, and glimpses of Mount Fuji, perfect for a scenic getaway from the metropolis.
- Robot Restaurant Show: A kitsch spectacle of lights, lasers, and costumed performers (particularly for those enjoying eccentric pop culture).
- Izakaya Hopping in Shinjuku: Sample small plates and local drinks in atmospheric alleyways and hole-in-the-wall bars.
- Kabuki Performance in Ginza: Experience classical Japanese theatre with elaborate costumes and stylised drama.
- Local Workshops: Try calligraphy classes or sushi-making sessions guided by local experts.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Ichiran Ramen
- Address: Multiple locations (e.g., 1-22-7 Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo)
- Best menu items: Customizable tonkotsu ramen with your preferred spice level, plus optional egg or extra noodles.
- Sushi Dai
- Address: Toyosu Market, 6 Chome-3 Toyosu, Koto City
- Best menu items: Omakase nigiri featuring the day’s freshest catch, offering a succinct but memorable sushi experience.
- Yakitori Alley (Omoide Yokocho)
- Address: Near Shinjuku Station, Nishishinjuku, Tokyo
- Best menu items: Grilled chicken skewers (various cuts), sake, and beer to embrace the local after-work culture.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- K’s House Tokyo Oasis
Near Asakusa, presenting a relaxed environment, private and dorm options, plus social events for travellers. - Centurion Hotel Residential Cabin & Spa
Capsule-style lodging in Akasaka, featuring a spa, modern pods, and easy metro access.
Best Boutique Hotels
- Claska
In the Meguro district, combining modern minimalism with an in-house gallery celebrating Japanese craft and design. - Trunk (Hotel)
Situated in Shibuya, emphasising social impact, local artistry, and communal lobbies that foster interaction.
Best Luxury Hotels
- Aman Tokyo
Zen-inspired suites perched high in the Otemachi Tower, featuring an infinity pool overlooking cityscapes. - The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo
Located in the Midtown Tower in Roppongi, offering panoramic top-floor views, sumptuous rooms, and upscale dining.
8. KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA
Why Go in 2025
- Multicultural Mosaic: KL’s blend of Malay, Chinese, and Indian communities shapes its cuisine, festivals, and heritage architecture.
- Modern Landmarks: Developments such as the Petronas Twin Towers and new infrastructure expansions keep the city’s skyline dynamic.
- Affordable Urban Adventure: Relative to many world capitals, KL’s cost of living and travel expenses remain quite manageable.
Best Places to See
- Petronas Twin Towers: Once the world’s tallest buildings, they offer sweeping observation deck views and a scenic adjoining park.
- Batu Caves: A Hindu shrine with a towering golden statue of Lord Murugan, leading to limestone caverns filled with shrines.
- Merdeka Square: Historical landmark featuring British colonial architecture and a significant site of Malaysian independence.
- Chinatown (Petaling Street): A bustling hub for street food, souvenirs, and cultural sites like temples.
- KLCC Park: A landscaped urban space for peaceful walks, with vistas of the Petronas Towers by night.
Best Excursions to Try
- Foodie Tours: Sample local favourites like nasi lemak, roti canai, and char kuey teow in hawker centres.
- Genting Highlands: An hour’s drive to hill resorts, theme parks, and cooler climates.
- Day Trip to Malacca: A UNESCO-listed city with Portuguese and Dutch colonial influences, scenic riverside cafes, and historic forts.
- Fireflies at Kuala Selangor: Evening boat ride to witness trees shimmering with thousands of fireflies.
- Heli Lounge Bar: Sunset cocktails on a former helicopter pad, featuring 360-degree city views.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Jalan Alor Food Street
- Address: Jalan Alor, Bukit Bintang, 50200 KL
- Best menu items: Grilled stingray, spicy fried noodles, fresh juice stalls.
- Village Park Restaurant
- Address: 5 Jalan SS21/37, Damansara Utama, 47400 PJ
- Best menu items: Nasi lemak with fried chicken, arguably the city’s top breakfast staple.
- Fuego at Troika Sky Dining
- Address: Level 23A, The Troika, 19 Persiaran KLCC, 50450 KL
- Best menu items: South American-inspired tapas, grilled meats, and panoramic skyline views.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- The Bed KLCC
Offering capsule pods in a sleek environment near the Petronas Towers, with communal areas for socialising. - Hotel Transit KL
Centrally located near Chinatown and public transport, featuring modern, functional rooms at decent rates.
Best Boutique Hotels
- The Kuala Lumpur Journal Hotel
Retro-themed property near Bukit Bintang, blending nostalgic decor with present-day comfort, a rooftop pool, and a friendly vibe. - The Chow Kit
Inspired by the cultural heritage of its namesake neighbourhood, featuring contemporary yet cosy interiors and a stylish on-site restaurant.
Best Luxury Hotels
- Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur
Adjacent to KLCC Park, offering refined rooms, upscale dining, and a luxurious spa. - The St. Regis Kuala Lumpur
Featuring art-adorned suites, personal butler service, and an extensive wine collection near the Lake Gardens.
9. BARCELONA, SPAIN
Why Go in 2025
- Gaudí’s Ongoing Legacy: By 2025, further restoration efforts might reveal new progress at La Sagrada Família, continuing the architectural wonder’s story.
- Mediterranean Vibe: Barcelona’s warm climate and beachside appeal remain a big draw, accompanied by a progressive culinary scene.
- Cultural Festivals: Expect events like La Mercè to highlight Catalan identity, along with music festivals spanning genres from electronic to jazz.
Best Places to See
- La Sagrada Família: A bewitching basilica still under construction, designed by Antoni Gaudí with unparalleled structural ambition.
- Park Güell: Gaudí’s mosaic-laden park offering breathtaking city panoramas and whimsical designs.
- Gothic Quarter: A medieval labyrinth where each turning reveals hidden plazas, centuries-old basilicas, and artisan stores.
- Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera): Eccentric Gaudí dwellings on Passeig de Gràcia, famed for their organic shapes and mosaic rooftops.
- Barceloneta Beach: Perfect for leisurely walks or an afternoon of sunbathing, backed by seafood eateries.
Best Excursions to Try
- Day Trip to Montserrat: A unique mountain range featuring a monastery perched among craggy summits, plus local liqueurs and hiking trails.
- Tapas Tour in El Born: Sample patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, and boquerones along narrow, historic streets.
- Wine Tasting in Penedès: Explore cava vineyards and enjoy scenic drives, indulging in crisp sparkling wines.
- Modernisme Architecture Tour: Beyond Gaudí, discover works by Puig i Cadafalch and Domènech i Montaner that shaped Barcelona’s Eixample.
- Boat Ride Along the Coast: Cruise the Mediterranean for fresh sea breezes and a new perspective on the city’s skyline.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Can Culleretes
- Address: Carrer d’en Quintana 5, Barri Gòtic, 08002 Barcelona
- Best menu items: Traditional Catalan fare such as escudella (meat and vegetable stew) and crema catalana.
- El Quim de la Boqueria
- Address: La Boqueria Market, La Rambla 91, 08001 Barcelona
- Best menu items: Fried eggs with baby squid, fresh produce based tapas, and daily specials.
- Tickets (under new concept)
- Address: (Previously) Av. del Paral·lel 164, 08015 Barcelona
- Best menu items: Creative tapas reimagined by the Adrià brothers, keep updated on new signature dishes for 2025.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- Kabul Party Hostel
Situated off Plaça Reial, offering dorm beds and lively communal areas, great for social travellers. - Hotel Constanza
Close to Plaça de Catalunya, providing simple yet comfortable rooms with a rooftop terrace for city views.
Best Boutique Hotels
- Hotel Brummell
Near Montjuïc, emphasising minimalist design, a courtyard pool, and on-site yoga sessions. - Casa Camper Barcelona
In El Raval, known for its sustainable approach and 24-hour snack bar, blending modern style with cosy communal lounges.
Best Luxury Hotels
- Hotel Arts Barcelona
Overlooking the Mediterranean in Port Olímpic, showcasing a contemporary art collection, top-notch dining, and sea-view suites. - Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona
On Passeig de Gràcia, combining sleek Eastern influences with Catalan modernism, featuring a rooftop pool and acclaimed restaurants.
10. SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA
Why Go in 2025
- Harbour Majesty: Few city skylines rival Sydney’s blend of harbour bridges, white-sailed opera houses, and shimmering waters.
- Outdoor Lifestyle: With summer in the southern hemisphere from December to February, northern travellers can escape the UK chill for sunshine and beaches.
- Evolving Cultural Scene: Ongoing expansions in museum spaces and public arts provide travellers with new exhibitions and experiences each year.
Best Places to See
- Sydney Opera House: A UNESCO World Heritage site merging aesthetic brilliance and cultural significance, with daily tours for behind-the-scenes insights.
- Harbour Bridge: Climb to the summit or simply admire from The Rocks, capturing the synergy of steel and sea.
- Bondi Beach: A world-famous surf haven with a laid-back vibe, beachside cafes, and scenic coastal walk to Bronte.
- The Rocks: Formerly a colonial settlement turned into a district of heritage pubs, craft stalls, and weekend markets.
- Royal Botanic Garden: Sheltered green lawns near Farm Cove, offering marvellous harbour views and carefully curated plant collections.
Best Excursions to Try
- Blue Mountains Day Trip: Panoramic lookouts, bushwalks through eucalyptus forests, and the iconic Three Sisters rock formation.
- Hunter Valley Wine Tour: Visit family-run vineyards to taste Australian vintages and indulge in vineyard lunches.
- Manly Ferry: A short boat ride from Circular Quay to Manly Beach, combining city sights with a laid-back beach town vibe.
- BridgeClimb: Conquer the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge with guided tours for a true adrenaline rush and sweeping city perspectives.
- Watsons Bay Outing: A ferry to Watsons Bay for waterfront seafood lunches and coastal tracks leading to dramatic cliffs.
Best Restaurants to Visit
- Quay
- Address: Upper Level, Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks, Sydney, NSW 2000
- Best menu items: A contemporary Australian degustation focusing on local produce, including signature desserts.
- Chat Thai
- Address: 20 Campbell St, Haymarket, NSW 2000
- Best menu items: Authentic Thai fare from fiery stir-fries to aromatic curries.
- The Grounds of Alexandria
- Address: 2 Huntley St, Alexandria, NSW 2015
- Best menu items: Seasonal brunch dishes, artisanal coffee, and decadent pastries in a garden-style setting.
Best Hotels
Best Budget Friendly Hotels
- Wake Up! Sydney Central
Near Central Station, featuring dorms and private rooms plus organised events, perfect for younger or sociable travellers. - The Pod Sydney
Offers capsule-style sleeping pods with privacy screens, near Chinatown for convenient access to affordable eats.
Best Boutique Hotels
- QT Sydney
Occupying historic theatre buildings near Hyde Park, fusing whimsical design and a hip bar-lounge environment. - Ovolo 1888 Darling Harbour
In a former wool store, showcasing vibrant decor, playful art, and modern amenities close to the city’s waterfront scene.
Best Luxury Hotels
- Park Hyatt Sydney
Unrivalled Opera House views from its harbourfront location, renowned for personalised service and a contemporary design approach. - Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
Towering above The Rocks, known for its Horizon Club lounge, spa offerings, and spectacular vistas from the upper floors.
Whichever city (or cities) you place on your 2025 travel bucket list, rest assured that each journey will be a tapestry of diverse sights, tastes, and cultural encounters, leaving you richer in memories and eager for the next grand voyage.