The most exciting destinations to visit in 2025: from Koh Samui to Sarajevo

With January feeling like it’s seriously dragging it heels, it’s time to plot our escape to somewhere far-flung or infinitely chicer than dark, wet London. Whether you have your sights set on a cultural weekender, an off-the-beaten-track adventure, or the ultimate fly and flop break, we have your guide to this year’s hottest destinations.

This Indonesian island is the paradise-esque destination on so many travel insiders’ lips right now. And for good reason — still under the radar versus the country’s well-trodden Lombok and Nusa Penida, and double the size of frenetic Bali, but with around a quarter of the population, it remains largely unspoilt. It’s a place where wild horses and buffalo roam free and you can find stretches of white sand beach to chill on without anyone else in sight. “It is an island gem that you’ll immediately fall in love with and want to keep all to yourself,” says travel writer and author Gina Jackson. “It’s long been touted as one of the best surf destinations in the world, but there’s lots more to get stuck into, from discovering local villages to getting deep within the wilderness: the island’s ever-changing landscape is home to rugged mountains, waterfalls and dense rainforest.” Choose from Nihi, “the first hotel on the island and something of a Sumbanese legend!”, or look at sleek, local art-filled Cap Karoso and the elegantly rustic The Sanubari. Hayley Spencer.

Yes, cheap flights from City Airport to Amsterdam mean many Londoners see it as their second city already, but 2025 is a big year for the Netherlands’ capital, as it celebrates its 750th anniversary in October. Plus, the return of direct Eurostar routes from February (with a brief hiatus in March) will make it even easier to nip over for a weekend escape. Summer is a great time to go, as festivities will include a major party in June. Though the city and especially its De Negen Straatjes (The Nine Streets) are a treat year-round, thanks to chic boutiques and vintage shopping, world-class museums such as the Rijksmuseum — with its healthy collection of Rembrandts and Van Goghs — and a lively food and drink scene. The Dam also has a wealth of brilliant design-led stays, such as the sleek Conservatorium in the museum quarter and the city’s original five-star stay, The Pulitzer. Plus this year a new Rosewood throws open its doors in the historic Palace of Justice building in June, while grand dame De L’Europe has unveiled 14 chic new suites designed by local leading names in art and design. It’s time to shake off any stag and hen stereotypes off this city for good. Hayley Spencer.