Top Cities to Visit in 2025: Where to Go and Why
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to plan your next big adventure, 2025 now it is
This year’s top cities offer more than just pretty postcards — they deliver unforgettable experiences, unique flavours, and stories you’ll tell for years. Whether you’re a foodie, culture lover, or just want somewhere new to explore, these destinations have you covered.
1. San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
“Colorful street in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, with colonial buildings, vibrant flowers, and the iconic Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel church in the background.”
A UNESCO World Heritage city in central Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is beloved for its colonial charm, colorful streets, and thriving art scene.
Why go?
Stroll through cobblestone lanes lined with vibrant facades and boutique shops, then admire the pink spires of the Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel, the city’s iconic neo-Gothic church. The town is a hub for creativity, with galleries, artisan workshops, and festivals celebrating music, food, and art. Relax in rooftop cafés with panoramic views, soak in nearby hot springs, or take a day trip to the wine country of Guanajuato.
Travel Tip:
September marks Mexico’s Independence celebrations, and San Miguel hosts lively parades, fireworks, and cultural events in the main square. It’s a festive time to visit, but book hotels in advance as demand rises.
Plan your trip:
2. Osaka, Japan
Colorful street in Osaka, Japan with neon signs, restaurants, and the Tsutenkaku Tower in the background.
Known as Japan’s “kitchen,” Osaka is lively, welcoming, and packed with some of the country’s best food and entertainment.
Why go?
Food is at the heart of Osaka’s culture — from takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savory pancakes) in Dotonbori to Michelin-starred dining. Stroll through neon-lit streets along the Dotonbori Canal, visit the reconstructed Osaka Castlesurrounded by beautiful parks, and spend a day at Universal Studios Japan if you’re traveling with family. Osaka also makes a great base for day trips to Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe.
Travel Tip:
September is shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists and better hotel deals compared to the cherry blossom or autumn foliage rush. Make sure to buy an ICOCA card for easy transport across trains, buses, and subways.
Plan your trip:
Osaka is buzzing with street food markets, neon nightlife, and easy access to the Kansai region — including Kyoto and Nara.
Why go? It’s a food lover’s paradise. Try takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and fresh sushi at Kuromon Ichiba Market.
Travel Tip: Combine your visit with a few nights in Kyoto. Look for flight + hotel packages on Expedia for the best rates.
3. Tokyo, Japan
Night view of Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing packed with crowds and surrounded by bright neon billboards and city lights.
A dazzling mix of ancient tradition and futuristic innovation, Tokyo is a city that never stops moving.
Why go?
Explore historic sites like the Meiji Shrine and Sensō-ji Temple, then step into the neon world of Shibuya Crossing and Shinjuku’s skyscrapers. Shop cutting-edge fashion in Harajuku, discover anime and gaming culture in Akihabara, and relax in the serene gardens of the Imperial Palace. Food is another highlight — from Michelin-starred sushi to steaming bowls of ramen and quirky themed cafés. Tokyo also makes a perfect base for day trips, whether it’s Mount Fuji, Nikko, or Hakone’s hot springs.
Travel Tip:
September brings fewer crowds after the busy summer, and early autumn weather is pleasant for sightseeing. Consider getting a Suica or Pasmo card for easy transport on Tokyo’s vast subway and train network.
Plan your trip:
Tokyo blends futuristic tech with centuries-old traditions.
Why go? From Shibuya’s bustling crossings to peaceful Meiji Shrine gardens, Tokyo is an adventure in contrasts.
Travel Tip: If you’re coming from the UK or US, book early — flights sell out quickly for cherry blossom season. Check prices via Skyscanner.
4. Bangkok, Thailand
Wat Ratchanatdaram temple complex in Bangkok, Thailand, with ornate rooftops and golden spires under a bright blue sky.
Thailand’s capital is a feast for the senses — vibrant, colorful, and endlessly dynamic.
Why go?
Bangkok blends tradition and modern energy like few other cities in the world. Visit glittering temples like Wat Arun, Wat Pho, and the Grand Palace, cruise along the Chao Phraya River, or shop your way through sprawling malls and colorful floating markets. The street food is world famous — pad thai, mango sticky rice, and spicy papaya salad are just the beginning. At night, discover buzzing night markets, rooftop sky bars with incredible views, and a nightlife scene that never sleeps.
Travel Tip:
September often brings excellent travel deals since it’s the rainy season — showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine. For a perfect combo trip, pair your Bangkok adventure with a beach escape to Phuket , Koh Samui, or Krabi. With plenty of cheap flights and packages, hopping down south for island time is easy.
Plan your trip:
5. Jaipur, India
Jal Mahal, the Water Palace in Jaipur, India, standing in the middle of Man Sagar Lake with green hills in the background.
Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is full of palaces, forts, and vibrant markets bursting with color and energy.
Why go?
Jaipur showcases some of the most stunning examples of Rajput architecture. Explore the majestic Amber Fort, wander the grand courtyards of the City Palace, and marvel at the intricate façade of the Hawa Mahal, also called the “Palace of Winds.” Don’t miss a stroll through the local bazaars for textiles, jewelry, and handicrafts that reflect Rajasthan’s rich heritage.
Travel Tip:
Combine Jaipur with Delhi and Agra for the classic Golden Triangle tour — one of India’s most famous travel routes. It’s the perfect way to see Jaipur’s royal palaces, the Taj Mahal in Agra, and Delhi’s bustling markets and monuments in one trip. You can find affordable guided Golden Triangle packages that include transport, hotels, and local guides.
Plan your trip:
6. Hoi An, Vietnam
“Lantern-lit boats on the river in Hoi An, Vietnam at sunset with colorful reflections on the water.”
Hoi An is a charming riverside town famous for its lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, and relaxed vibe.
Why go?
The UNESCO-listed Old Town is a beautifully preserved mix of Japanese, Chinese, and French influences. Wander through its narrow lanes filled with temples, merchant houses, and tailors who can create custom clothes in just a day or two. In the evening, the town comes alive as colorful lanterns light up the Thu Bon River. Food lovers will enjoy local specialties like cao lầu noodles and white rose dumplings. Just a short bike ride away, you’ll find quiet beaches and rice paddies that make Hoi An the perfect mix of culture and relaxation.
Travel Tip:
September is less crowded and often brings lower hotel rates. Consider pairing your Hoi An visit with nearby Da Nang for beaches or Hue for imperial history — both are easy trips from Hoi An.
Plan your trip:
7. Mexico City, Mexico
: Night view of Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral illuminated in the main square, with people walking and gathering in the foreground.
One of the world’s largest and most exciting capitals, Mexico City blends ancient history with modern culture and incredible cuisine.
Why go?
Explore the impressive Templo Mayor ruins and the colonial beauty of the Zócalo, the city’s vast main square. Art lovers can visit Frida Kahlo’s Blue House and Diego Rivera’s famous murals, while foodies will be spoiled with everything from tacos al pastor to fine-dining experiences ranked among the world’s best. Chapultepec Park offers museums, lakes, and the stunning Chapultepec Castle, while the canals of Xochimilco provide colorful boat rides with mariachi music.
Travel Tip:
September is part of Mexico’s Independence season, so expect parades, flags, and lively celebrations. It’s a great time to experience local culture, but book hotels early to secure good deals. For a popular day trip, head to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, just outside the city.
Plan your trip:
One of the world’s most exciting capitals for art, food, and history.
Why go? Explore ancient Aztec ruins, world-class museums, and a buzzing dining scene.
Travel Tip: Stay in the Roma or Condesa neighbourhoods for style and convenience.
8. Kyoto, Japan
Alt text: Traditional wooden street in Kyoto at sunset, with two women wearing kimonos walking toward Yasaka Pagoda in the background.
The cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is where timeless traditions meet serene natural beauty.
Why go?
Once the imperial capital, Kyoto is home to over a thousand temples and shrines. Visit the golden Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), wander through the iconic red torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, and experience the calm of Zen gardens at Ryoan-ji. The historic Gion district offers a glimpse of geisha culture, while traditional tea houses and kaiseki dining showcase Japan’s refined culinary heritage. In spring, cherry blossoms paint the city pink, while autumn brings fiery maple leaves to temple grounds and riversides.
Travel Tip:
Kyoto can get crowded during peak cherry blossom (March–April) and autumn foliage (November) seasons. September is a shoulder month with fewer crowds and better hotel deals. Consider pairing your stay with nearby Osaka or Nara for day trips packed with food, history, and culture.
Plan your trip:
9. San Francisco, USA
“Iconic San Francisco cable car on Van Ness Avenue heading uphill with city buildings and golden sunset in the background.”
A city of iconic landmarks, rolling hills, and a vibrant cultural scene, San Francisco offers something for every traveler.
Why go?
Start with the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge and enjoy the sweeping views from Crissy Field or Battery Spencer. Visit Fisherman’s Wharf for fresh seafood and sea lions, then ride a historic cable car up and down the city’s steep streets. Explore the diverse neighborhoods — Chinatown, Haight-Ashbury, and the Mission — each with its own character and food culture. For a deeper dive into history, tour the infamous prison island of Alcatraz, and if you love the outdoors, Golden Gate Park and nearby Muir Woods are musts.
Travel Tip:
September and October bring the best weather — sunny days, mild temperatures, and fewer crowds compared to summer. Book early, as it’s also peak time for festivals and events.
Plan your trip:
10. Santa Fe, USA
“Historic adobe-style theater building with ornate details in downtown Santa Fe, New Mexico, under a clear blue sky.”
Voted the best U.S. city for 2025.
Why go? Unique adobe architecture, a thriving arts community, and stunning desert landscapes.
Travel Tip: Combine Santa Fe with a road trip through New Mexico.
Why Visit Santa Fe?
Santa Fe stands out as one of America’s most distinctive cities, where timeless pueblo-style architecture meets breathtaking high-desert scenery. Its deep history is celebrated in museums that showcase the culture of old New Mexicoand the traditions of Native American tribes. Art lovers will find themselves in paradise—Santa Fe’s galleries feature everything from international fine art to eclectic local creations and immersive exhibits. Whether you’re exploring the city’s historic streets or diving into its vibrant art scene, Santa Fe promises a unique cultural escape.
📌 Travel Tip: Late spring and early fall bring mild weather, perfect for exploring without the summer crowds.
Plan your trip:
👉 Find hotels in Santa Fe on Expedia
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s the historic charm of San Miguel, the neon buzz of Osaka, or the peaceful beauty of Kyoto, 2025 is the year to make your city travel dreams happen.
Plan ahead, book early, and get ready to experience the world’s most exciting cities.
Byline: Written by Alex X., founder of AlwaysTravel.org — a curated travel deal site trusted by globetrotters across the UK, USA, and South Africa. With 20+ years of lived travel experience and industry insight, Alex shares expert tips for smarter, stress-free adventures.
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