The New York Times Travel section’s annual list of 52 recommended destinations for 2025 is more than just a catalog of places—it’s a curated collection of experiences, each offering a unique adventure. This year, the focus went beyond recommendations, with writers and photographers venturing to these spots to report firsthand on why they stand out.
Immersive Experiences Drive 2025’s Top Picks
The destinations on the list aren’t chosen arbitrarily; they represent places that offer something special. For example, Aix-en-Provence, France, was highlighted due to its year-long celebration of Paul Cézanne. The city dedicated 2025 to the artist who made his mark there, with the Musée Granet hosting the largest collection of his work.
As Bruno Ely, director of the museum, notes, “It takes time to like Cézanne because he is more complex than you realize.”
This underscores a key trend: destinations that lean into cultural depth and immersive experiences are gaining prominence. Rather than just seeing sights, travelers are seeking deeper engagement.
Beyond Sightseeing: A Shift Towards Cultural Immersion
The Lofoten Islands in Norway also made the cut, though the article abruptly cuts off before detailing why. This highlights a broader trend: increasingly, travel is about doing rather than simply seeing. Destinations that offer active participation in local culture, whether through art, cuisine, or unique landscapes, are attracting discerning travelers.
The examples provided—staying in rifugios in the Italian Dolomites or seeking refuge in an Osaka izakaya during a downpour—emphasize this shift. These aren’t just vacation spots; they’re opportunities for authentic, memorable experiences.
The 2025 list, as presented, signals that modern travel is less about checking off landmarks and more about connecting with places on a deeper level. Destinations that facilitate this—through cultural celebrations, immersive environments, or simply the right kind of rain-soaked adventure—are poised to thrive.
