Travel can connect us, inspire us, and even change us. Looking over a stunning waterfall in Newfoundland or climbing the sharp peaks in the Italian Dolomites shows just how amazing our world is. However, while travel is usually a positive experience, recent events have shown that it can also cause problems and damage the places we cherish. Because of this, many popular spots are now setting new rules to deal with the issues caused by too many visitors. So, here is a list of the best places to visit in 2025.
Naoshima, Japan
Naoshima, a Japanese island famed for Yayoi Kusama’s yellow pumpkin sculptures, has transformed from a polluting copper smelting site into a modern art hub, thanks to the Benesse Art Site. In spring 2025, the Naoshima New Museum of Art, designed by Tadao Ando, will open, focusing on Asian artists and playing a key role in the SetouchiTriennale—an event spanning 100 days across 17 islands. This Triennale will be the largest since it began in 2010, boosting Naoshima and revitalizing nearby islands like Teshima and Inujima.
The Dolomites, Italy
Italy is a popular destination, especially with Rome crowded for the 2025 Jubilee. For a unique experience, consider the Dolomite Mountains, known for family activities and stunning scenery in Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Cortina d’Ampezzo will co-host the 2026 Winter Olympics, bringing more attention to the area. In 2025, expect improved ski lifts and better transportation in the DolomitiSuperski region, enhancing access to towns like Alta Badia and Val Gardena.
Greenland
Greenland is a unique destination. It is the world’s largest island with over two million square kilometers and a population of fewer than 57,000. Its vast ice cap, stunning mountains, and breathtaking fjords offer unforgettable adventures. Summer activities include hiking and whale watching, while winter features dog sledding and the northern lights. A new international airport in Nuuk and more planned for 2026 make it easier for travelers to explore the region while respecting its nature and Inuit culture. Nuuk boasts a historic waterfront, museums, and galleries that serve as a hub for outdoor activities. In Ilulissat, visitors can see the impressive icebergs of Disko Bay, while the southern part of the island has picturesque fjords and green hills once inhabited by Vikings.
Western Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Labrador, located in eastern Canada, is known for its coastal villages, icebergs, forests, and rich history dating back over 9,000 years. The completion of the Trans-Labrador Highway by 2025 will enhance access to this 294,330-square-kilometer region, linking it with five Canadian provinces and offering detours into the US and France. To promote sustainable tourism and respect local culture, the Canadian government is investing $180 million in Western Newfoundland and Labrador’s Parks Canada sites. In 2025, Red Bay National Historic Site will open a visitor center, L’Anse aux Meadows will upgrade its facilities, and GrosMorne National Park will introduce new geology and wildlife exhibits.
