Top 10 Best Countries in the World, Ranked by Traveler Readers

Larry Mimosa February 03, 2025 | 09:09

The prestigious Traveler Magazine’s 37th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards survey has just revealed the list of the Top 10 Best Countries in the World for 2024/2025. Let’s explore and find out why the following 10 countries are the most chosen by readers to start planning your next trip in 2025.

These best destinations have captivated travelers with their stunning landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're planning your next adventure or simply dreaming of far-off places, these ten countries should be at the top of your travel bucket list.

10. Greece – A Timeless Mediterranean Paradise

Greece – A Timeless Mediterranean Paradise

Greece continues to attract record-breaking numbers of tourists, thanks to its idyllic islands, azure Aegean waters, and a deep-rooted history that spans millennia. Famous spots like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete never go out of style, while lesser-known gems such as Paros, Hydra, and Zakynthos are gaining popularity. Meanwhile, Athens, once burdened by an economic crisis, has evolved into a creative and cultural hub, boasting avant-garde galleries, innovative restaurants, and stylish boutique hotels. For a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, venture to Zagorohoria, a cluster of 46 historic stone villages in the Pindus Mountains, offering serene landscapes, truffle hunting, and breathtaking monasteries.

9. Ireland – A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Ireland remains a favorite for travelers seeking history, hospitality, and dramatic landscapes. While the country's rolling green hills and fireplace-warmed pubs continue to enchant visitors, Dublin has emerged as one of Europe’s leading tech hubs. Nicknamed "Silicon Docks," the city balances modernity with tradition, where you can tour the famous Trinity College Library by day and sip craft whiskey at Teeling Distillery by night. Venture beyond the capital to discover hidden retreats—from lighthouse stays on County Mayo’s rugged coast to Scandinavian-style cabins in County Monaghan. For a more rugged experience, explore the Aran Islands, featured in the Oscar-nominated film The Banshees of Inisherin.

8. New Zealand – A Real-Life Middle-Earth

Ever since The Lord of the Rings showcased its otherworldly landscapes, New Zealand has remained a dream destination for nature lovers. From snow-capped mountains and lush fjords to bubbling geothermal valleys, every corner of this island nation feels like a scene from a fantasy epic. Auckland remains a bustling urban gateway, but new luxury lodges like Flockhill Lodge in the Southern Alps are redefining high-end wilderness retreats. The country's Māori heritage is also being increasingly honored, with cultural experiences becoming a highlight of any visit. For a truly unique experience, board Invivo Air, the world’s first winery airline, offering in-flight wine tastings between Auckland and Queenstown.

7. Vietnam – A Dynamic and Diverse Destination

Vietnam

Vietnam has something for every type of traveler, from bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to serene landscapes like Ha Long Bay. Ho Chi Minh City, in particular, is gearing up for a major moment in 2025, with a revamped Sheraton Saigon Grand Opera Hotel and exciting new openings like the Kempinski Saigon River. Beyond urban attractions, Vietnam's pristine beaches and rich culinary scene continue to draw food lovers and adventurers alike. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl of pho in a street market or exploring a remote village in the northern highlands, Vietnam offers an unforgettable journey through history and culture.

6. Thailand – The Land of Smiles

A perpetual favorite among travelers, Thailand offers an intoxicating mix of vibrant city life, sublime beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Bangkok dazzles with Buddhist temples, Michelin-starred street food, and an electric nightlife scene. For island lovers, the country’s beaches remain among the world's best, from the tranquil shores of Koh Lanta to the party-centric vibes of Phuket and Koh Phangan. Whether you're exploring ancient temples in Chiang Mai or indulging in a traditional Thai massage, this Southeast Asian gem continues to charm visitors year after year.

5. Spain – A Fiesta of Culture and Cuisine

Spain embodies the art of celebration, from the flamenco clubs of Andalusia to the beachside tapas bars of Barcelona. The country’s culinary scene is thriving, with two of the world’s top-ranked cocktail bars—Sips and Paradiso—calling Barcelona home. Meanwhile, destinations like Mallorca are shedding their party-hard reputations to become cultural hotspots, with new boutique hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants redefining luxury. Whether you’re indulging in a paella feast in Valencia, hiking the Camino de Santiago, or admiring Gaudí’s masterpieces, Spain offers endless opportunities for exploration.

4. Italy – The Land of La Dolce Vita

Italy is a never-ending treasure trove of history, art, and gastronomy. While Rome, Florence, and Venice continue to captivate, lesser-known destinations like Sicily, Bergamo, and Brescia are emerging as must-visit locations. The country’s culinary traditions are so integral to its identity that Italian cuisine is currently nominated for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. From learning to make hand-rolled pasta in Tuscany to sampling ancient Jewish recipes in Rome, food lovers will find their paradise here. Italy is the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern indulgence.

3. Turkey – Where East Meets West

Istanbul, perched at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, is a melting pot of history and modernity. With a world-class airport, an expanding contemporary art scene, and a thriving food culture, the city is more exciting than ever. Beyond Istanbul, the Turquoise Coast beckons with pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and ancient ruins. History buffs will be drawn to Anatolia’s 8,000-year-old Arslantepe Mound, newly recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Turkey seamlessly combines antiquity with contemporary vibrance, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all kinds.

2. Portugal – Europe’s Rising Star

Portugal has transformed from a budget-friendly alternative to Spain into a global travel hotspot. Its capital, Lisbon, is a stunning blend of historic charm and modern creativity, while Porto is fast gaining recognition for its vibrant cultural scene. Beyond the cities, Portugal offers diverse landscapes, from the vine-covered Douro Valley to the dramatic cliffs of the Algarve. The country’s Azores archipelago, with its volcanic terrain and untouched beauty, is now more accessible than ever, thanks to new direct flights from the U.S. and beyond.

1. Japan – The Ultimate Travel Destination

Japan is the number 1 destination in 2025, according to readers' choice

Taking the number one spot, Japan continues to amaze travelers with its unique blend of tradition and futuristic innovation. Visitors can explore ancient Shinto shrines, soak in therapeutic onsens, and experience the efficiency of the country’s high-speed trains. The culinary scene remains world-class, with new sushi bars breaking tradition by welcoming female chefs. Meanwhile, recent UNESCO World Heritage designations have put lesser-known regions, such as the Jomon Prehistoric Sites and the Ryukyu Islands, on the global travel map. Whether you're admiring cherry blossoms in Kyoto or exploring high-tech Tokyo, Japan is the ultimate travel experience.

Conclusion

These top 10 countries, as chosen by Traveler Magazine's readers, represent the very best the world has to offer in 2024/2025. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, these destinations promise experiences that will last a lifetime. Start planning your next journey and discover why these places have captured the hearts of travelers worldwide!

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