Future of Travel: Top emerging trends of 2025 revealed
Rail Renaissance, Coolcations, and Astro-Tourism on the list
DUBAI: Euronews has announced seven transformative travel trends set to define 2025.
The new report, based on data from their third annual Travel Trends Report, created in partnership with Oxford Economics, reflects travellers' growing preference for affordability, sustainability, and unique cultural experiences.
Global issues like overtourism, climate change, and rising travel costs have inspired these new trends, which reveal shifts toward immersive and meaningful journeys.
Offbeat Alternatives
In response to overtourism and high costs in popular holiday spots, Euronews predicts that more travellers—especially from Gen Z—will seek "destination dupes." This trend focuses on affordable alternatives to well-known destinations, offering unique experiences with fewer crowds.
Suggested alternatives include Taipei as a substitute for Seoul, Perth for Sydney, and Vilnius or Bucharest for Barcelona and Amsterdam. Albania is also highlighted as a peaceful alternative to Greece.
According to Euronews, this trend allows travellers to form deeper connections with less-visited locales that are culturally rich and economically accessible.
Cosmic Getaways
Astro-tourism is rising in popularity, fuelled by an increasing interest in celestial events like the Northern Lights and recent comet sightings. The establishment of 20 new International Dark Sky Parks last year supports this trend, creating ideal settings for stargazers.
Euronews’ report highlights Northumberland, Chile, and Iceland as prime astro-tourism destinations. These "cosmic getaways" reflect a broader trend towards purposeful travel that fosters wellbeing by helping individuals reconnect with nature. With quiet observatories and night sky tours, astro-tourism provides a tranquil, introspective travel experience.
Coolcations
The Coolcations trend has emerged as an appealing escape from rising global temperatures. Travellers are increasingly favouring colder climates in warmer months, choosing destinations like Canada, Alaska, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland.
Euronews points out that this trend aligns with environmental concerns and comfort, enabling tourists to avoid the heat and enjoy cooler landscapes without sacrificing experience.
Coolcations thus represent a shift towards climate-conscious travel that combines comfort with exploration.
Rail Renaissance
A renewed interest in train travel is transforming how people experience their journeys. Known as the "Rail Renaissance," this trend appeals to travellers looking for sustainable alternatives to flying.
Euronews notes that train journeys are no longer just about reaching a destination; they offer scenic routes, opulent dining cars, and a chance to unwind.
Suggested routes include the Orient Express, Switzerland’s Glacier Express, Florida’s Brightline, and South Africa’s Rovos Rail.
The trend highlights a shift towards slower, more immersive travel experiences, blending nostalgia with a sustainable approach.
Purposeful Journeys
An emphasis on purposeful travel is inspiring more tourists to support communities and the environment. Euronews’ report suggests that travellers are increasingly choosing experiences that allow them to positively impact the places they visit, from reforestation projects to conservation initiatives.
Destinations like Ayala Land’s Regenerative Tourism initiative in the Philippines and Ecuador are emerging as pioneers in this space.
"Our travel trends report highlights a significant shift in travellers' preferences towards affordability, sustainability, and authentic experiences," said Ruth Wright, Managing Editor of Euronews Travel and Euronews Green. "These trends reflect a growing desire for deeper connections with destinations and a more mindful approach to travel."
Set Adventures
Popular films and TV shows continue to shape travel choices through "set jetting." This trend draws tourists to iconic filming locations, bringing international attention to new areas. As part of this phenomenon, South Korea has seen a tourism boom, fuelled by the popularity of K-dramas and local cinema.
Suggested destinations include Paris and Rome, inspired by Emily in Paris; Koh Samui, inspired by The White Lotus; and Tetbury in the Cotswolds, where Rivals was filmed.
This trend highlights how entertainment can influence travel choices and introduce audiences to hidden gems worldwide.
Digital Itineraries
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising travel planning, allowing for personalised itineraries and on-the-spot assistance. Euronews’ report notes how AI-driven solutions simplify bookings, tailor recommendations, and streamline information access, ultimately enhancing the travel experience.
Additionally, AI has the potential to promote sustainability by aiding companies in resource management, reducing environmental impact through efficiency.
As Euronews' Travel Trends Report 2025 illustrates, travel is evolving to prioritise meaningful connections, environmental responsibility, and personalisation, marking a significant shift in how people will explore the world in the coming year.