From Gudauri, Georgia to Tromso, Norway: Booking.com reveals 2025’s trending destinations for Indian and global travellers

INDIA, January 2025: From stargazing to thrill-seeking or exploring slow travel, the travel experiences we crave and the destinations we look to are always evolving. Booking.com’s annual Travel Predictions 2025 research*, reveals how Indian travellers will be re-thinking how they travel and defying convention to discover less crowded destinations (83%) with the help of technology, embark on luxurious longevity retreats (83%) or opt for more nocturnal activities in evenings or early mornings to beat rising temperatures (79%).

 Along with its annual Predictions, Booking.com has delved into its data insights* to uncover diverse and exciting destinations set to capture Indian and global travellers' attention next year. These locations offer a wide range of experiences, from serene beach getaways to cultural hubs and adventure-filled landscapes. Here’s a look at the top trending destinations that are set to become vacation hotspots in 2025. 

 Trending international destinations for Indian travellers in 2025

Fuelled by increased connectivity, international travel continues to boom. But where are Indian explorers heading? The answer lies in unique and unexplored destinations offering a captivating blend of adventure and cultural immersion. Think Gudauri and Tbilisi in Georgia, the mesmerizing Gabala in Azerbaijan, or the captivating Tromsø in Norway. These destinations highlight a growing desire of Indians seeking off-beat experiences.

1. Gudauri, Georgia: Located in the Caucasus Mountains, this winter destination offers excellent slopes and scenic landscapes for adventure sports enthusiasts.
2. Gabala, Azerbaijan: A picturesque town blending ancient ruins with leisure, surrounded by the Caucasus and popular for winter activities.
3. Cruis, France: A charming village in Provence, known for its lavender fields, offers travellers an ideal French countryside retreat.
4. Almaty, Kazakhstan: An appealing location for travellers who want to enjoy a vibrant city blending Soviet-era architecture with modern amenities, surrounded by the stunning Trans-Ili Alatau .
5. Baku, Azerbaijan: Famous for its modern skyline and historic Old City, this low-lying city with coastline along the Caspian Sea is ideal for putting it on your 2025 travel list.
6. Ahangama, Sri Lanka: A laid-back coastal town famous for its scenic beaches, traditional fishing and wellness retreat options perfect for an authentic Sri Lankan experience.
7. Tbilisi City, Georgia: With cobblestone architecture and a mix of ancient and modern landmarks, this is an ideal destination for travellers seeking culturally enriching experience.
8. Tromso, Norway: As one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, adventurous travellers of all ages can enjoy activities like ice fishing, wildlife tours and reindeer sledging.
9. Batumi, Georgia: A seaside city with a scenic coastline, 19th-century architecture and vibrant nightlife, ideal for a beach vacation.
10. Mui Ne, Vietnam: A coastal destination on the southwest coast of Vietnam, Mui Ne offers stunning beaches and red and white sand dunes, just a few hours away from Ho Chi Minh City.

 “In 2025, travel goes beyond ticking destinations off a list. It's about transformative experiences that ignite personal growth. Whether it's an adrenaline rush in Gudauri or a rejuvenating retreat in Ahangama, there's a growing desire for journeys that leave a lasting impact. Booking.com remains committed to making travel seamless and accessible for all. Our platform empowers travellers to discover unique accommodations, curate exciting activities, find flights and rental cars – all in one place.”

Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com

 CONTACT DETAILS

For any queries, please contact the Booking.com India Press Office: adhiraj.sinha@allisonworldwide.com

Methodology

* Travel Predictions 2025 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12-24 months. In total, 27,713 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,016 from Argentina, 1,002 from Australia, 502 from Austria, 1,003 from Belgium, 1,002 from Brazil, 1,006 from Canada, 1,007 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 501 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,011 from France, 1,009 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,002 from India, 506 from Ireland, 501 from Israel, 1,014 from Italy, 1,008 from Japan, 1,013 from Mexico, 1,011 from The Netherlands, 1,003 from New Zealand, 504 from Portugal, 508 from Singapore, 1,004 from South Korea, 1,008 from Spain, 509 from Sweden, 500 from Switzerland, 507 from Taiwan, 1,009 from Thailand, 503 from the UAE, 1,012 from the UK, 1,006 from the US and 1,016 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July-August 2024.

** Destinations had to be in the top 1,000 most booked on Booking.com between 15 June 2023 and 15 June 2024. The resulting list was then sorted by year-over-year increase. The destinations were slightly curated to ensure geographic distribution.