With the nights drawing in and getting colder, some will be itching to get their next holiday booked.
2025 may be the year that you decide to walk the road less travelled – to step beyond the traditional European destinations and immerse yourself in new cultures.
To assist with this decision, travel guide book company, Lonely Planet, has revealed its top 10 countries to visit next year.
But only three of its options are in Europe – and are unusual choices at that.
For those looking to escape the crowds of the world’s most crowded hotspots, like Spain, Greece and Bali, one of these options may be the perfect choice.
Cameroon
The first country on Lonely Planet’s list is the African country of Cameroon. The country celebrates its 65th anniversary of independence in 2025, promising to provide a destination of celebration and overdue, well-deserved attention.
Cameroon offers unspoiled beaches like Kribi, home to golden sand, waterfalls and lined with palm trees and cities including Douala and Yaounde which pulse with an eclectic soundtrack drawn from the dancy-heavy rumba rhythms of Central Africa.
Lithuania
Followed closely behind is the first of three European destinations on the list – Lithuania. Named the European Green Capital of 2025, Lithuania epitomises both conservation and sustainability.
There has never been a better time to explore its protected forests, lakes and sandy dunes along the Baltic Sea, with Lithuania receiving just 1.1 million international visitors in 2023 compared to the staggering 85.1 million that descended on Spain.
Green spaces also cover an impressive 61% of its capital, Vilnius, with unmissable attractions including the recently restored Saphieha Palace. Lithuania has a rich history and a unique culture and in 2025 you could be seeing these influences in the country’s wooden grave markers, wrought-iron craftsmanship and medieval-style music for yourself in 2025.
Fiji
Lonely Planet describes visiting the 330-island archipelago of Fiji as a “transformative experience”, surrounded by 1.3 million square miles of cerulean waters and home to 460 protected marine areas brimming with life.
Protecting this delicate and fragile ecosystem, its heritage and natural resources is at the heart of a new initiative that encourages preservation through activities like planting coral and mangroves.
“Throughout Fiji, its culture, food and people epitomize the saying ‘Fiji is the way the world should be’”, said some of Lonely Planet’s travel experts.
Laos
The Asian country of Laos takes the fourth spot on the list. Lonely Planet recommends taking a ride on its brand new high-speed international rail, connecting its sedate mountainous plains with China’s bustling southwestern Yunnan Province. Disembark at Luang Prabang for day trips to Kuang Si Waterfall and the Old Quarter, and to join a sunrise alms-giving ceremony.
Travellers now have an affordable, efficient and sustainable way to traverse the region’s best, yet relatively unseen, cultural and natural wonders and ancient cities. This is a quieter side of Asia less visited by foreign tourists.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is perfect for those travellers looking to immerse themselves in an unspoilt destination awash with natural beauty, history and culture. Hikers will love the many trails in Sairam-Ugam National Park, uncrowded by tourists.
Lonely Planet also recommends visiting Shymkent, known for having some of the country’s best food, or Almaty, the old capital, for its Soviet heritage.
Paraguay
In the heart of South America, uncrowded Paraguay teems with life, while also maintaining a laid-back and welcoming vibe.
There is plenty to see, from the spiky Chaco forest home to jaguars and giant anteaters to picturesque pueblos and plunging waterfalls. Be sure to also tour the eclectic architecture of Paraguay’s charming capital, Asuncion.
Trinidad and Tobago
This twin-island Caribbean nation’s food scene is a panoply of flavors with African, East Asian, French, Spanish, English, Dutch, Chinese and Indigenous influences. Go birding, hiking and turtle-watching at the Hadco Experiences Asa Wright Nature Centre, or enjoy water sports and popular food spots and Pigeon Point Beach.
Trinidad and Tobago’s headliner, though, is Carnival. This months-long extravaganza, which features steelpan competitions, stick-fighting battles and calypso showdowns, culminates in vibrant costume parades which kicks off on March 3 2025.
Vanuatu
A country that very few have even heard of, only about 45,000 tourists visit Vanuatu in Oceania every year. It is a largely untouched island escape, swathed in jungle, fringed by deserted beached, dotted with volcanoes and laced with scenic trails.
But the best reason to visit, according to Lonely Planet, is to experience the rich heritage and diverse cultures of the Ni-Vanuatu (Melanesian people of Vanuatu, also known as Ni-Van).
Slovakia
The second European destination on the list is Slovakia, with its focus on outdoor adventures, ecotourism and multiple ongoing restoration projects in the capital and beyond.
Take in the cultural riches and history in Bratislava, traverse the beech forests and wildflower meadows that cascade down the flanks of the Carpathian Mountains or hop aboard the Tatra Electric Railway.
Armenia
The third, and final, European destination on the list is Armenia, which, from a mass tourism perspective remains relatively undiscovered – for now – so now is the time to visit before everyone else does.
See the South Caucasus, stunning monasteries, the new Armenian National Trail or simply savour a glass of Areni Noir in a vineyard – the country’s wine scene is on par with any in the world.
“Living in Armenia is a joy thanks to its vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. When visiting, eat delicious tolma, explore ancient monasteries and enjoy Yerevan’s fun and safe nightlife,” said Jazz Singer Simela Namavar.
Lonely Planet’s 10 best countries to visit in 2025
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Cameroon
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Lithuania
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Fiji
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Laos
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Kazakhstan
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Paraguay
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Trinidad & Tobago
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Vanuatu
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Slovakia
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Armenia