As Generation Z and millennials increasingly turn to travel, truly unique and distinctive trends are beginning to emerge. Aside from trends like mourning tourism And quiet vacation as well as lasting change towards ecological travelYoung jet-setters prefer destinations with a lively party and food scene. “Generation Z and millennials want to be close to nightlife and restaurants,” says Audrey Hendley, president of American Express Travel, also noting that they want to be close to city centers and tourist attractions. Likewise, they enjoy traveling to participate in sporting events, she says, as Formula 1 in São Paulo, Brazil.
It is with this in mind that American Express Travel recently published its List of trending destinations 2025with the ten best cities to explore around the world, aimed at Gen Z and millennial travelers. Based on card members' travel bookings worldwide, the list includes destinations such as the aforementioned São Paulo, Brazil, for the Formula 1 experience; Koh Samui, Thailand, whose white-sand beaches will soon appear on HBO's “The White Lotus”; and Brisbane, Australia, which offers plenty of nightlife and dining options.
The list also includes five choices from The hotel collectionAmerican Express Travel's lodging program that offers benefits such as early check-in, late check-out and room upgrades when available, plus a $100 credit. From the famous Hôtel Barrière Le Grand Hôtel Dinard in France to the Sun Valley Resort in Idaho known for its full-service spa, these hotels offer the perfect balance of fun activities and secluded relaxation and wellness.
Keep reading for a look at popular destinations and hotels to visit in 2025, and be sure to check out the full List of trending destinations 2025 to find out more.
Experts featured in this article
Audrey Henley is the president of American Express Travel.
