Dec 12, 2024
The Top Most Searched for Holiday Destinations of 2025
By
Sophie Blanchflower
With the winter season underway, lounging on a sunny beach with a cocktail in hand might seem like a distant dream. But, as the weather cools, what better time to start planning your much-needed summer getaway for next year?
The question is: which destinations will take the crown for summer 2025? To find out, we’ve pulled together a ranking of the most searched holiday destinations travellers can’t get enough of.
Whether you're checking off your travel destination bucket list or looking for some much-needed inspiration, read on to discover the top ten travel destinations of 2025 and start planning your next adventure!
Methodology
Using a seedlist of popular holiday destinations, we analysed the number of monthly Google search results for each location to reveal the top 10 spots for a getaway in 2025.
The 10 most-searched-for holiday destinations of 2025
Whether you're dreaming of sun-soaked beaches or a vibrant city break, there’s a wide range of holiday destinations for everyone. And the best part is, each of these locations is just a short flight away for UK travellers!
So, wave goodbye to jetlag from long-haul flights, and let's dive into the top ten destinations that you should add to your travel bucket list for 2025:
1st: Cyprus — 9,000 searches
Cyprus tops the list of the most searched holiday destinations in 2025, and it's easy to see why travellers are so obsessed with this coastal location. This picturesque Mediterranean island offers a perfect blend of stunning beaches, rich history, and bustling nightlife.
Whether you're exploring the ancient ruins of Kourion, soaking up the sun on Nissi Beach, or enjoying the lively atmosphere in Ayia Napa, Cyprus has something for every type of traveller. And, of course, no trip to Cyprus is complete without sampling the local cuisine — especially the delicious halloumi cheese and fresh seafood dishes!
2nd: Ibiza — 6,700 searches
Coming in second is the ever-popular party destination, Ibiza. Famous for its legendary nightlife, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Ibiza is a great choice if you're looking for an exciting getaway with plenty of options for relaxing in the sunshine to recover after a long night of dancing.
But there's far more to this location than simply being a party-goer's paradise. Beyond the clubs, you can explore small villages like Santa Eulalia, enjoy water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding, or take a peaceful sunset cruise to see more of the island. Ibiza also offers beautiful hiking trails in the Ibiza Híjar Natural Park if you're in the mood to connect with nature, while stunning spots like Cala Comte and Cala Bassa are perfect for a spot of sunbathing or open-water swimming.
3rd: Nice — 5,000 searches
The French city of Nice is in third place for holiday hotspots in 2025. Located on the Riviera, Nice is famous for its beautiful Promenade des Anglais — a 7km stretch of waterfront lined with bustling hotels and local businesses. Take a stroll through the Old Town (Vieux Nice), known for its narrow streets and colourful buildings, independent shops, and lively cafes. And don't miss the Cours Saleya market, which is perfect for picking up authentic souvenirs.
Nice is also an excellent base for a day trip to explore nearby, more expensive destinations like Monaco and Cannes, making it a popular choice for backpackers.
4th: Majorca — 4,000 searches
The Spanish island of Majorca is a holiday-maker's paradise, known for its bright turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. This island destination ranked fourth on our list and offers something for everyone — from fun-filled family resorts in Palma to peaceful villages in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains.
Majorca's stunning landscapes and bustling cities make it a top bucket list travel destination. For adventure-seekers, why not try activities like sailing, hiking, or cycling? Or, if you're looking for a relaxing getaway, unwind at one of the many beachside cafes across the island.
5th: Barcelona — 3,500 searches
Next up is another Spanish gem — the vibrant city of Barcelona. Known for its architecture, Barcelona is a feast for the eyes that offers plenty of beautiful spots to snap some great holiday pics. The city also offers beautiful beaches, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds and soak up the sun between shopping sprees at lively markets such as La Boqueria.
Barcelona has a vibrant nightlife scene in areas like El Raval and Gràcia, where you can sample authentic tapas at a local bar or watch a flamenco show. For art enthusiasts, the Picasso Museum is an essential stop. And, if the city alone isn't enough, Barcelona's closeness to other popular destinations like Montserrat and Sitges makes it a great base for day trips in the surrounding area.
6th: Split — 3,000 searches
In sixth place is the Croatian city of Split, known for its beautiful coastline and historic streets. Split is home to the impressive Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts thousands of tourists each year. Visitors can explore the palace's narrow alleys, enjoy the waterfront promenade, or take a boat trip to nearby islands like Hvar and Brač.
If you don't mind a short walk, take in the stunning views from the top of Marjan Hill. Or, if you prefer to keep your feet on flatter ground, why not visit the vibrant markets at Pazar and grab lunch at one of the lively cafes and restaurants that line the streets?
Joint 7th: Malta — 2,300 searches
Our next top destination for 2025 is Malta, which came in joint-seventh place. This unique island city is filled with exciting things to see and do, from relaxing at Golden Bay Beach to exploring the ancient temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra. Malta's capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with charming limestone streets and historic fortresses.
Dive into the crystal-clear waters to get up close with marine life, visit the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, or take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon on Comino Island. Whether you're interested in history, water sports, or simply soaking up the sun, Malta is a fantastic choice for a summer holiday.
Joint 7th: Mykonos — 2,300 searches
Sharing seventh place with Malta is the Greek island of Mykonos. Famous for its nightlife, photo-worthy windmills, and beautiful beaches, Mykonos is a top destination for those looking to mix relaxation with excitement into their holiday. In Mykonos Town, visitors can enjoy water activities like windsurfing and sailing or sit back and sip a cocktail at one of the island's many beach bars.
While you're on the main island, take a trip to the iconic Little Venice district, perfect for enjoying romantic sunsets and capturing beautiful holiday pictures. Mykonos also serves as a gateway to Delos Island, a nearby archaeological site that's well worth a visit.
8th: Algarve — 1,600 searches
Portugal's Algarve region is the eighth location in our ranking of top holiday destinations for 2025. Known for its dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and charming fishing villages, the Algarve offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can take a short road trip along the coastline, enjoy water sports like surfing and kayaking, or wander through towns like Lagos and Albufeira to sample local street food and pick up souvenirs.
The Algarve's mild climate and friendly locals make it a favourite among travellers looking for a laid-back holiday, but there's plenty of excitement to enjoy here, too! Don't miss the vibrant nightlife in Vilamoura, home to casinos, golf courses, bars, and hotel resorts.
9th: Amalfi Coast — 1,100 searches
When it comes to a holiday getaway with a view, it doesn't get much better than Italy's picturesque Amalfi Coast — so it's no surprise this Mediterranean paradise made it onto our top ten. The Amalfi Coast is famous for its steep cliffs, charming seaside towns like Positano and Ravello, and delicious Italian cuisine.
Visitors can enjoy scenic drives along the coastal roads, take a boat trip to explore hidden coves or relax with gelato while taking in the view. No visit is complete without a trip to the beautiful gardens of Villa Cimbrone and the historic Cathedral of Amalfi. For adventure-seekers, hiking the Path of the Gods offers plenty of breathtaking photo opportunities.
10th: Santorini — 1,000 searches
Rounding off our ten most-searched holiday destinations in 2025 is Santorini. This iconic Greek island is famous for its white-washed buildings (which make for the perfect holiday snap when paired with a sunset) and deep blue seas. Santorini offers a range of activities to suit any traveller, from exploring the ancient ruins of Akrotiri and hiking the scenic trails between Fira and Oia to relaxing on unique black-sand volcanic beaches.
Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or simply a place to relax and unwind, Santorini has it all. Don't forget to head out and enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Fira and sample some of the delicious local wines produced in the island's vineyards. If you’re looking for a unique experience, take a boat tour around the caldera or visit the nearby islands of Thirassia and Nea Kameni for a closer look at Santorini's volcanic landscape.
How to save money when booking flights
Jetting off on holiday is exciting, but we all know costs can quickly add up when booking your dream getaway. Saving money on your flights can make the experience even sweeter, leaving you with more budget to enjoy all the amazing activities your chosen destination has to offer.
Here are some tried and tested ways to save money when booking flights:
1. Set up a price alert
Setting up price alerts is a simple and effective way to keep an eye on flight prices without constantly checking them yourself. Using tools like Google Flights or Skyscanner, you'll receive notifications when prices drop for your chosen destination. This way, you can book your flights when prices are lower and snag a great deal before costs go up again. Plus, it saves you the hassle of manually tracking fares, letting you focus on planning the fun parts of your trip!
2. Choose a different destination airport
Sometimes, flying to a different airport can save you some money on your plane fare. Larger cities usually have multiple airports, and choosing a smaller, less busy option can lead to cheaper flights.
For example, instead of flying directly into Barcelona's main airport, you might find a better deal flying into Girona or Reus and then taking a short train or bus ride to the city centre. Plus, not only can choosing different airports reduce your flight costs, but it can also save you time and stress navigating through busy airport check-in queues!
3. Consider buying a package deal
Buying a package deal that includes flights and accommodation is often cheaper than booking them separately, as most travel agents partner with different airlines to secure the best prices.
Plus, package deals are also usually ATOL-protected, meaning you're covered against any unexpected interruptions and giving you peace of mind while you travel.
4. Check when flights are usually the cheapest
Flights are usually cheaper at less popular times of the year, known as the 'off-peak' season, so timing your booking right can make a big difference.
Off-peak fares are the cheapest, but you may have to deal with cooler temperatures that could put a dampener on your plans. On the other hand, booking flights during the 'shoulder' seasons (just before or after the peak travel times) can help you save money on your travel and get the most out of your chosen destination without the hustle and bustle of crowds or bad weather.
For Mediterranean destinations, the shoulder seasons are typically May to early June and September to October. During these months, the weather is still mild, but there are fewer tourists, meaning lower flight prices and accommodation costs. Similarly, for destinations like Barcelona and Split, travelling in late spring or early autumn can help you avoid the summer rush while still enjoying great sunbathing weather.
5. Fly early to mid-week
While booking a weekend away can be tempting after a long stint at work, choosing to fly early in the week — especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays — can actually be much cheaper. This is because there's usually less demand for mid-week flights, which means airlines tend to lower their prices to fill seats.
Choosing flights that depart early in the morning or late at night can also save you money, as fewer people want to travel at these times. So, if you're looking to save a bit on your next trip and don't mind waking up at the crack of dawn to catch an early flight, this can be a great way to take advantage of reduced fares.
When is the best time to fly in 2025?
For the best deals on your 2025 holiday plans, book your travel during the shoulder seasons — May to early June or September to October. This not only helps you find lower travel fares but also reduces the chances of your dream destinations being overcrowded with other tourists. Flying early to mid-week usually means cheaper fares, and choosing early or late-night flights can help you avoid crowded airports.
If you're a frequent flier, remember to use your air miles to reduce costs or upgrade your seat for free.
What can you expect from some of the most popular destinations in 2025?
Looking ahead to 2025, these top travel destinations are evolving to offer even more for visitors. Cyprus is leading the way in eco-friendly travel with its focus on responsible tourism, offering a variety of diving experiences that prioritise the health of marine life.
Ibiza continues to mix its vibrant nightlife with peaceful areas for respite and relaxation, keeping it a hotspot for those heading abroad to party. Emerging travel hotspots like Split and the Algarve are becoming more popular as bucket list destinations, thanks to their blend of beautiful scenery and fun activities — so you can expect to see quite a few other tourists during your trip.
As two hugely popular travel destinations, Majorca and Santorini are both enhancing their infrastructure to handle more tourists while keeping their beautiful landscapes and landmarks in top condition. This is excellent news for anyone planning a trip in 2025 who might be worried about struggling to find a sunbathing spot!
Make the most of your holiday with Trtl Travel
As you jet off to explore one of our most-searched destinations, make your journey as comfortable as possible with our Trtl Pillow.
Whether you're trying to get some rest after a night of celebration in Ibiza or napping on the flight to Malta, our pillow provides the support you need to stay refreshed and ready for every adventure.
For more travel tips and inspiration, including the top honeymoon destinations and information about upcoming regulation changes in Europe, dive into the Trtl blog.