3 Trending Luxury Travel Destinations for 2025
From icy adventures in Antarctica to tranquil stays in Kyoto, here are three trending high-end escapes that luxury travelers are eyeing for 2025.

Luxury travel can take many forms — whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list adventure or a destination made famous by social media. Some travelers seek meaningful, immersive experiences, while others are after the perfect Instagram photo in a place everyone seems to be flocking to.
Either way, luxury travel trends are constantly shifting. They're influenced by everything from the growing interest in solo adventures to lifestyle priorities like health, wellness and convenience. Increasingly, travelers are drawn to curated, hassle-free itineraries that deliver high-end experiences without the extra planning.
Each year, Virtuoso — a global network of luxury travel agencies — releases a trend report that offers a glimpse into how affluent travelers are thinking, what they value most and the types of destinations catching their eye.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Be a smarter, better informed investor.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
For 2025, the report reveals a growing interest in colder, off-the-beaten-path locales like Antarctica and Iceland, along with a surge in solo-friendly cruises and purpose-driven travel experiences.
With that in mind, here are the three trending luxury travel destinations to watch in 2025.
1. Antarctica
Travelers agree: the best way to see Antarctica is by cruise line. According to Virtuoso, more and more travelers are heading to colder destinations to avoid crowds, escape rising temps and have a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Luxury cruise packages from companies like Kensington Tours start at $11,500 for 13 days and go up to $31,482 for a 24-day cruise.
If you prefer to see the continent on foot, there are luxury tour options that include private travel. White Desert offers a number of trip packages with an emphasis on different artistic endeavors, like photography.
Get up-close access to penguin colonies on a five to six day trip that starts at $71,500 per person and includes private jet travel. Or, opt for a day trip from Cape Town for $15,950 per person that includes a hike, champagne picnic and more.
For 2025, it's not enough for consumers to just say they went on a luxurious vacation; they want to go to a place that most people have not seen and get that once in a lifetime experience that will set them apart from their peers.
And, as the Virtuoso luxury travel trends report noted, "Antarctica, with its expanding cruise options and pristine, icy landscapes, has surged in popularity, climbing from fifth place last year to second among the top destinations to watch."
This might be in part due to climate change; travelers aren't sure how much longer icy destinations will be preserved, while also trying to escape rising hot temperatures in other parts of the world.
2. The Seychelles, East Africa
Due to the popularity of reality TV shows like Below Deck: Down Under, which highlights the pristine beauty of the Seychelles, this Indian Ocean archipelago is quickly climbing the ranks as one of the world’s most sought-after luxury travel destinations.
For travelers seeking the ultimate in luxury, chartering a private yacht is a popular way to explore the 115 islands. Weekly charters average around $400,000, offering guests a floating five-star experience complete with private chefs, onboard spas and dedicated crew members. The payoff? Unrivaled access to secluded coves, world-class scuba diving spots, and untouched coral reefs, many of which are only reachable by boat.
High-end hospitality brands are making major investments in the region, with new properties from Four Seasons and the Waldorf Astoria setting the standard for opulence. Think overwater villas, private infinity pools, holistic wellness centers and curated eco-experiences that showcase the islands’ natural beauty — all tailored for the discerning traveler.
As infrastructure grows and demand rises, the Seychelles are solidifying their reputation as the new gold standard in elite tropical getaways.
3. Kyoto, Japan
While Tokyo has long reigned as Japan’s top trending travel hotspot, Kyoto is quickly rising in the ranks. Especially among luxury travelers seeking a more serene, culturally immersive experience. Known for its centuries-old temples, traditional teahouses and lush bamboo forests, Kyoto offers a unique blend of history, tranquility and natural beauty that makes it a standout destination.
Kyoto’s peaceful atmosphere is the perfect antidote to the buzz of modern city life. After a day spent exploring gardens, walking through Arashiyama’s famed bamboo grove, or visiting the iconic Fushimi Inari shrine, travelers can unwind at one of the city’s many five-star hotels.
For an indulgent stay, consider Roku Kyoto, nestled near the base of the Takagamine mountains and overlooking the peaceful Tenjin River. The hotel offers natural hot spring baths and close proximity to the golden Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) temple.
Another top-tier option is the Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, located in the beautifully preserved Higashiyama Ward. This luxury retreat features a centuries-old pond garden, world-class dining and a full-service spa, all within walking distance of Kyoto’s most treasured cultural landmarks.
With its rich heritage and understated elegance, Kyoto is proving to be the perfect destination for luxury travelers seeking balance, beauty and a deeper connection to Japan’s timeless traditions.
RELATED CONTENT
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.

Brittany Leitner is a freelance journalist with over 10 years of experience in lifestyle, health, and more. She received a Digital Health Award for her reporting in 2019 as well as numerous awards for her work in poetry. She previously held positions as senior editor at Elite Daily and managing editor at The Dr. Oz Show. Follow her online @britariail.
-
4 Career Moves to Make Now if You're Worried About a Recession
Worried about a recession? These steps to protect your job prospects will help you professionally whether a downturn develops or not.
-
How StoryCorps Works and How You Can Tell Your Story
StoryCorps has recorded conversations between thousands of people, and anyone can participate. National facilitator Alan Jinich explains how to share your story.
-
4 Career Moves to Make Now if You're Worried About a Recession
Worried about a recession? These steps to protect your job prospects will help you professionally whether a downturn develops or not.
-
How StoryCorps Works and How You Can Tell Your Story
StoryCorps has recorded conversations between thousands of people, and anyone can participate. National facilitator Alan Jinich explains how to share your story.
-
Vacation Couture: Why Wealthy Americans Are Flying to Europe to Save on Luxury
Tariffs are making high-end shopping in the U.S. pricier — so savvy travelers are heading overseas, where VAT refunds and favorable exchange rates can offset the extra cost.
-
Think Twice Before Getting a Credit Card Cash Advance
A credit card cash advance can be a quick solution when you need emergency help with money. But you'll pay for the convenience with high interest and fees.
-
5 Home Run Hotel Packages Every Baseball Fan Will Love
From Fenway to Yankee Stadium, these bundled hotel-and-baseball deals combine savings, perks and unforgettable fan experiences.
-
My First $1 Million: Retired Marketing Consultant, 74, Southern New Hampshire
Ever wonder how someone who's made a million dollars or more did it? Kiplinger's My First $1 Million series uncovers the answers.
-
Amtrak Debuts High Speed Trains as Train Travel Enters a New Golden Age
Amtrak's new high-speed trains come with upgraded amenities, expanded schedules and more as rail travel demand surges.
-
I'm a Financial Adviser: Three Things You Will Wish You Did Before the Fed Cuts Interest Rates
With potential interest rate cuts on the horizon, you might want to lock in today's higher yields and consider adjusting your asset allocation.