Your Travel Wrapped: The Destinations We Pined Over in 2025

Where did you travel in 2025? Did you hop from city to city, embracing European café culture and jumping between galleries from the comfort of a plush hotel? Or was it a strictly fly-and-flop year full of beachy escapes and cool-offs in crystal clear waters?

Whether it made it out of the group chat or off the bucket list or not, there’s a good chance you searched for one of the destinations outlined in Google’s latest ‘Year in Travel’ list. These are the destinations that saw huge spikes in 2025, indicating they’re unique to this year compared to last. While many of the cities and islands listed below are well-known and much-frequented by jetsetters, these places saw a sustained traffic spike in 2025 compared to 2024 – suggesting we pined over these spots more than anywhere else.From caribbean islands to underrated Spanish cities, this is your travel wrapped.

10. Düsseldorf

While the legendary beer tents of Munich and the ancient attractions of Berlin continue to draw in millions of visitors each year, many of us are seeking choice destinations with fewer crowds. The German ‘fashion capital’ Düsseldorf fits the bill perfectly, thanks to its walkability and the variety of scenes on offer, from the charming Old Town to the glitzy boutiques.

Where to stay:

Basel, Switzerland: Beyond the Art Museums

The city is renowned for its concentration of museums. The Kunstmuseum Basel, with its impressive collection spanning from the 15th century to the present, is a must-see. Don’t miss the Fondation Beyeler, housed in a stunning building designed by Renzo Piano, showcasing modern and contemporary art.But Basel isn’t solely about traditional museums.

For a different experience, explore the Vitra Design Museum just across the border in Weil am Rhein, Germany (easily accessible from Basel). It’s a haven for design enthusiasts. Wander through the Old Town (Altstadt), with its charming cobblestone streets and colorful buildings. The Basel Minster, a striking red sandstone cathedral, dominates the skyline and offers panoramic views of the city.

During warmer months,the Rhine River becomes a central gathering place. Locals and tourists alike enjoy swimming in the Rhine – a unique Basel tradition. You can rent a “wickelfisch” (a waterproof bag) to keep your clothes dry while you float downstream.It seems a bit unusual at first, but it’s a truly refreshing experience.

Where to Eat

Basel’s culinary scene is diverse. You’ll find everything from traditional Swiss cuisine to international flavors.For a taste of local specialties,try a “Basler Läckerli” – a spiced gingerbread biscuit.Restaurant Löwencel offers traditional swiss dishes in a cozy setting.If you’re looking for something more modern, check out Stucki Park, known for its innovative cuisine and stunning garden setting.

Don’t overlook the Markthalle, a vibrant market hall offering a wide range of food stalls and local produce.It’s a great place to grab a quick and flavorful lunch. One might suggest trying the local cheeses and cured meats.

where to Stay

Basel offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-kind hostels. The Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois, a historic landmark on the Rhine, is a splurge but offers unparalleled luxury. For a more contemporary option, consider the Nomad Hotel Basel. there are also several excellent boutique hotels in the Old Town.

Getting Around

Basel has an excellent public transportation system. Trams and buses connect all parts of the city. It’s easy to get around on foot, especially in the Old Town. The city is also very bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes throughout.

Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg Airport (BSL) serves the city, with connections to major European destinations. The main train station (Basel SBB) is a major railway hub, making it easy to reach Basel from other Swiss cities and neighboring countries.

Published: 2025/12/04 09:10:52