New York joins London, Paris, Edinburgh, Manchester, Amsterdam, Malaga, Istanbul and more leading global travel trends in 2025 as travelers seek culture, cuisine, iconic landmarks and unforgettable experiences.

Posted on November 6, 2025

New York joins London, Paris, Edinburgh, Manchester, Amsterdam, Malaga, Istanbul and other iconic cities as leading global travel destinations in 2025, driven by growing traveler demand for culture, cuisine, historical landmarks and unique experiences. According to Opodo’s Year of Travel 2025 report, London was the most searched-for city worldwide, followed by Paris and New York, while cities such as Edinburgh, Manchester, Amsterdam, Malaga and Istanbul also saw significant international interest. The data shows that European travellers, especially from Germany, Spain and France, dominate bookings to London, while British tourists are opting for culture-rich short breaks to Amsterdam, Barcelona and Paris. Beyond the major capitals, destinations like Edinburgh and Manchester are attracting global visitors seeking authentic regional experiences, proving that travelers are increasingly prioritizing destinations that combine iconic landmarks with immersive cultural, culinary and historical offerings, making 2025 a year defined by unforgettable experiential travel in the city.

Blending centuries of tradition with cutting-edge innovations, London’s magic lies in its ability to offer something for everyone. From royal palaces and architectural icons to world-class museums, culinary adventures, and buzzing nightlife, it’s a city that thrives on diversity. Each corner tells a different story – from the historic Tower of London to the street art of Shoreditch – creating an ever-evolving destination that continues to inspire curiosity and admiration.

According to Opodo’s comprehensive analysis of global search data, London is ranked as the most searched for city worldwideOutperforming famous competitors such as Paris and New York, which ranked second and third, respectively. The results, based on millions of travel inquiries and bookings, demonstrate the capital’s enduring ability to attract visitors seeking cultural depth and urban excitement.

The report highlights particularly strong demand from European travellers. London ranked second in searches among French, Italian, Portuguese and Spanish users, while it ranked fourth among Germans and sixth among Americans. This broad international appeal demonstrates the city’s continuing importance as a top choice for leisure, business and cultural exploration – a destination that seamlessly blends the familiar and the extraordinary.

In confirmed bookings, London got Fifth place globallylagging behind Barcelona, ​​Paris, Palma de Mallorca and Madrid. Despite being just below the top four, the city still packs a punch in international tourism. Travelers continue to be drawn to its unmistakable blend of Old World heritage and modern verve – a balance that few destinations can achieve with such effortless charm.

Europe remains London’s strongest market. Represents German travelers 19 percent Of all London bookings in 2025, followed closely by visitors from Spain in 18 percent And France in 14 percent. Outside of the capital, there are other cities in the UK such as Edinburgh and Manchester It also featured among the top overseas bookings, indicating a growing curiosity among international visitors to explore more of the country’s regional diversity.

For British travellers, the story has turned abroad. The best options for holidays in the UK were Amsterdam, Barcelona and Pariswith Malaga and Istanbul Completing the top five positions. This pattern reflects a renewed enthusiasm for culturally immersive and short-haul trips, where travelers can balance exploration with relaxation – a trend that continues to define post-pandemic travel behavior across Europe.

The broader data also captures a shift in global travel motivations. Today’s tourists are no longer just looking for landmarks; They are looking for experiences that connect them to the identity of the destination. London is thriving under this new mentality. Whether it’s an afternoon exploring the galleries of Tate Modern, wandering the food stalls of Borough Market, or viewing the skyline from the Thames, visitors find themselves immersed in the lively rhythm of the city.

The capital’s enduring appeal also lies in its ability to reinvent itself without losing its soul. New culinary hotspots, reimagined cultural districts and sustainable travel initiatives are redefining how both locals and tourists interact with the city. Yet, at its core, London remains deeply rooted in its heritage – a place where Victorian facades stand alongside futuristic glass towers and where ancient traditions coexist with cosmopolitan modernity.

As the world continues to rediscover its passion for travel, London is emerging not only as a destination of choice, but also as a living symbol of global culture and creativity. Its skyline tells the story of a city that has never stopped evolving, and its streets promise something new with every visit.

New York joins London, Paris, Edinburgh, Manchester, Amsterdam, Malaga, Istanbul and other major cities driving global travel trends in 2025, as travelers search for culture, cuisine, historical landmarks and unforgettable experiences, with searches and bookings soaring around the world.

In 2025, the message for travelers from around the world is clear: London isn’t just a city to see; It is a city to experience, explore and remember. With its energy, diversity and timeless character, the capital remains one of the most irresistible destinations on Earth, and continues to inspire millions who dream of walking its ancient streets.