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
-
US-China Trade Hopes Send Stocks to New Highs: Stock Market TodayApple and Microsoft are on track to join Nvidia in the $4 trillion market cap club.
-
A Lesson From the School of Rock About the MarketsIt's hard to hold your nerve during a downturn, but next time the markets take a tumble, remember this quick rock 'n' roll tutorial and aim to stay invested.
-
How Prepaid Verizon Phone Service Works and When It's a Smart ChoiceExplore the differences between Verizon Prepaid and Verizon Postpaid plans — costs, perks, flexibility and when going prepaid makes sense.
-
Child-Free Cruises Perfect For Your Retirement CelebrationHow to find a bespoke ocean or river vacation for adults. Many of these options are smaller, charming river cruises, expeditions, or niche experiences.
-
My First $1 Million: Biopharmaceutical Senior Manager, 45, MassachusettsEver wonder how someone who's made a million dollars or more did it? Kiplinger's My First $1 Million series uncovers the answers.
-
What Is the 1% Deductible Rule in Home Insurance?You could be overpaying for home insurance if your deductible is too low. But going too high can be just as risky. That's where the 1% deductible rule comes in.
-
The Delayed September CPI Report is Out. Here's What it Signals for the Fed.The September CPI report showed that inflation remains tame – and all but confirms another rate cut from the Fed.
-
Starbucks Just Announced Red Cup Day and It's Sooner Than You ThinkThe coffee chain's annual holiday cup giveaway returns — with a twist — as the holiday beverage lineup launches early and staff investments ramp up.
-
Avoid These Four Mistakes in the Run Up to RetirementYou can learn a thing or two from the retirees who went before you.
-
Where to Deposit Your Social Security CheckIf you receive Social Security checks, where you deposit them matters because it can help grow your earnings. See the best options.
