Summer 2025 is just around the corner, bringing with it the urge to escape to places that combine nature, culture, adventure, and relaxation. Travel trends evolve every year, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned recently, it’s that travelers are seeking memorable experiences, authentic places, and a good dose of digital inspiration to decide where to go.
If in 2024 the top spots were Bali, Santorini, Tokyo, Costa Rica, and Lisbon, this year the compass points to new corners of the world. We present the five most coveted destinations for this summer, selected for their authenticity, charm, and rising popularity among travelers from all over the globe. Ready to dream about your next paradise?
1. Madeira (Portugal): The Floating Garden of the Atlantic
Wild nature, hiking trails, and unique wines
Far from the bustle of Lisbon or the fame of the Algarve beaches, Madeira has been winning hearts thanks to its lush landscapes, year-round spring-like climate, and genuine character. This Portuguese island is perfect for adventure lovers, offering breathtaking hiking trails like the levadas of Caldeirão Verde and stunning views from Pico Ruivo.
But Madeira also invites you to relax, with natural pools in Porto Moniz, volcanic beaches, and a gastronomy that pairs perfectly with its local wines. It’s ideal for those looking for a summer getaway between the mountains and the sea, without the crowds.
2. Oaxaca (Mexico): Culture, flavor, and untamed coast
Zapotec ruins, mezcal, and hidden beaches
Named one of the most exciting destinations in the world by top travel magazines, Oaxaca has everything: a colorful capital full of art and tradition, magical towns like Mitla and Hierve el Agua, ancient archaeological ruins, and a still-wild coastline with beaches like Mazunte and Zipolite — perfect for unplugging from the world. 
This summer, many travelers will choose to blend culture and beach in one destination, and Oaxaca offers that perfect mix. With its growing selection of boutique hotels and sustainable experiences, it’s a must for 2025.
3. Kotor (Montenegro): The Adriatic’s Best-Kept Secret
Medieval charm, fjords, and postcard views
Sometimes the most valuable gems are hiding in plain sight. That’s the case with Kotor, a small fortified town on the Montenegrin coast, nestled on the shores of its namesake bay. Its old town feels like a fairytale, with cobblestone alleys, ancient churches, and hilltop fortresses that delight romantic travelers.
Montenegro is emerging as a quieter and more affordable alternative to Croatia’s crowded coastline. With jaw-dropping landscapes, national parks like Lovćen, and pristine beaches such as Jaz and Sveti Stefan, this small country is set to be a summer 2025 star.
4. Jeju (South Korea): Volcanic Island with a Slow Soul
Temples, landscapes, and the rhythm of island life
While South Korea often draws visitors to Seoul or Busan, Jeju Island remains an under-the-radar paradise for international travelers. A UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, this volcanic island features lava fields, waterfalls, black-sand beaches, and the iconic haenyeo — traditional female divers who harvest seafood without oxygen tanks. 
Jeju is ideal for those looking for a summer escape with cultural and spiritual depth, surrounded by nature. Its slow pace, warm hospitality, and delicious local cuisine have led many to call it the “Korean Hawaii” — but without the crowds.
5. Queenstown (New Zealand): Reversed Summer, Guaranteed Adventure
Extreme sports, lakes, and mountains in the southern hemisphere
Why not flip the script and travel to the southern hemisphere’s winter during our summer? Queenstown, New Zealand, is the perfect destination for lovers of the outdoors and adrenaline. Surrounded by the Southern Alps and perched on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, this city offers stunning scenery and endless activities: skiing, bungee jumping, hiking, cycling routes, skydiving, and more. 
July and August are ideal months to explore the New Zealand south without the European summer heat. It’s perfect for travelers looking for something different, active, and immersed in untouched nature.
Inspiration and Planning: Smartvel as Your Trusted Copilot
Choosing a destination is just the first step. The travel experience begins long before boarding the plane and continues long after landing. That’s why having the right information at the right time can make all the difference — not only in your customers’ choices but in your business results.
In this highly competitive summer season, Smartvel becomes the perfect ally for travel agencies, airlines, hotels, and tourism companies that want to offer a personalized, digital-first, and truly helpful travel experience.
EntryDocs: Everything Your Clients Need for a Stress-Free Trip
Worrying about visas, health requirements, or paperwork is a thing of the past. With EntryDocs, your digital platforms can provide a centralized hub of updated and personalized travel information, reducing friction and increasing confidence during the booking process.
Travel Tips: Valuable Information That Builds Trust
From local currency and safety to climate and cultural customs, Travel Tips enriches your website or app with relevant content, improves your SEO, and helps you stand out by offering added value your customers will appreciate.
Trip Planner & Event Calendar: Inspire, Organize, and Delight
There’s nothing travelers love more than knowing what to do at their destination. Trip Planner helps them explore places, activities, tours, and restaurants tailored to their interests. Meanwhile, Event Calendar connects them with live events — concerts, exhibitions, festivals, and more — that align with their travel dates.
It’s no longer just about booking a stay, but about delivering a complete and personalized travel experience.
The summer of 2025 is all about authenticity, discovery, and conscious experiences. Whether you’re hiking Madeira’s peaks, dancing at a festival in Oaxaca, or skydiving over Queenstown, today’s traveler craves connection, emotion, and relevant information.
At Smartvel, we help you be part of every stage of that journey.
So, where will summer 2025 take your travelers?
