Yes, you’ve been daydreaming long enough about traveling, and the beginning of the year is the perfect time to take that agenda out and start planning your next international adventure. Let 2025 be your passport to the most inspiring destinations!
In honor of this 2025 (a quarter century, ou-lala!) we’ve handpicked 25 destinations—a blend of iconic and the less-known cities—where design, art, architecture, and cultural diversity make extraordinary travel experiences.
Whether you’re seeking for timeless design, masterful craftsmanship, or an artistic oasis, these cities promise to awaken your wanderlust and creativity. We bet you’ll be adding at least a couple to your bucket list. Are you ready for a new journey?
Spring Inspiration
Kyoto, Japan
Get ready for your dose of beauty in Kyoto, especially during the magical cherry blossom season. Ancient temples, stunning gardens, and centuries-old architecture, all set against the soft pink glow of sakura. The city is a feast for the eyes, where nature and design come together in the most harmonious way.
Seoul, South Korea
Picture pastel blooms lining the Han River, vibrant art districts like Insadong bursting with creativity, and traditional hanbok-clad locals wandering through the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace. It’s a city where centuries of culture meet cutting-edge design—an endless well of inspiration.
Paris, France
Think art galleries, trendy boutiques, and cozy cafés all coming together to celebrate the latest in design and fashion. The city’s beauty truly shines as the days grow longer, inviting you to leisurely stroll along charming streets in Le Marais, or wander through the artistic haven of Montmartre, creative energy is always there.
Seville, Spain
Step into Seville, where orange trees and gorgeous tilework create a painter’s dream come true. In spring, it bursts into life, and local festivals like Feria de Abril take center stage, showcasing colorful fashion and traditional crafts. If you’re drawn to bold, beautiful designs and rich culture, Seville is the place to be.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Tulips bloom in every color imaginable, canals shimmer, and world-class art museums—like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum—invite creativity to bloom too. Plus, the local craft scene? It’s full of authentic, handmade treasures that’ll make you want to take home a little piece of Amsterdam’s unique vibe.
Summer Getaways
Bandung, Indonesia
Say hello to Indonesia’s creative capital! Bandung is the ultimate hotspot for indie fashion, art deco architecture, and a vibrant café culture. Surrounded by lush mountains, this city is a playground for creatives looking for fresh air and sparkling ideas.
Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok is where ancient meets modern in the most electric way possible. Think dazzling temples, buzzing street markets, and a design scene that’s all about blending traditional Thai craftsmanship with bold, contemporary twists. It’s a sensory overload—in the best way.
Florence, Italy
Marvel at the classic beauty of the Duomo, indulge in an aperitivo overlooking the Arno River, find artisan studios in the Oltrarno district, and don’t forget to shop for handmade leather goods and custom paper at local boutiques. Florence is more than the Renaissance—it’s a living celebration of creativity.
Osaka, Japan
Known for its bold, futuristic architecture and dynamic design scene. Explore design-forward districts like Umeda and Namba, where modern skyscrapers stand alongside traditional Japanese architecture. Expo 2025 will bring even more opportunities for design inspiration, the perfect destination for creative minds.
Mexico City, Mexico
Dive into the artisan workshops of San Ángel, explore the contemporary galleries in Juárez, or marvel at the architectural beauty of Casa Luis Barragán. From bustling markets to cutting-edge fashion, it effortlessly blends tradition with innovation, making it a must-visit for every design lover.
Autumn Escapes
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik in autumn? Yes, please. This coastal gem combines Venetian elegance with Mediterranean charm, all framed by sparkling seas and ancient city walls. The softer light of the season brings out the rich details in its medieval architecture, making it an absolute must-see for design lovers.
Lisbon, Portugal
The city’s hills come alive in a burst of colorful street art and iconic tiled buildings, making it a dreamy fall destination for design enthusiasts. Wander through neighborhoods like Alfama, where traditional architecture and contemporary creativity blends like a living canvas—perfect for sparking your own design ideas.
New York City, USA
Fall in NYC is an electrifying mix of fashion, art, and architecture. The air is crisp, the city is buzzing, and creativity is everywhere—from iconic galleries in Chelsea to boutique pop-ups in SoHo. It’s the perfect season to channel your inner design maven and soak up the energy of the Big Apple.
Oaxaca City, Mexico
From the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos to the intricate handwoven textiles and colorful pottery, the city is a celebration of culture and creativity. Autumn in Oaxaca is pure art come to life. This is where the soul of Mexican artistry meets the heart of design inspiration.
Prague, Czech Republic
Cobblestone streets bathed in golden light, medieval charm at every corner, and intricate architecture that feels like stepping into a fairytale. Autumn in Prague is the ultimate designer’s dream, with cool, crisp air and cozy cafés where you can soak up the city’s creative vibes.
Winter Wanders
Helsinki, Finland
The city’s sleek, functional architecture stands out against a snowy backdrop, a perfect mix of creative hubs and pristine nature. Wander through design districts like Punavuori, where galleries, boutiques, and studios showcase the best of Finnish innovation. Iconic white façades and cozy cafes greet the season with style.
Lucerne, Switzerland
A mix of medieval charm and modern design, nestled between snow-capped mountains and a shimmering lake. The city’s traditional Kapellbrücke blends seamlessly with cozy cafés, stunning views, and rich history of Swiss craftsmanship, a perfect destination to experience winter through a design lens.
Sapporo, Japan
Tucked away in Japan’s snowy north, it’s a design lover’s paradise that’s brimming with creativity. The city comes alive with its world-renowned winter festivals, with ice sculptures and intricate snow art. Sapporo’s design-forward spaces, like the peaceful Sapporo Art Park, invite you to experience a fresh perspective on winter.
Tromsø, Norway
The ethereal beauty of Norway’s snowy fjords and cozy villages coexist with cutting-edge design. Explore the stunning contrast of traditional wooden cabins and sleek, sustainable architecture that defines the city’s design-forward vibe, while the Northern Lights dance across the sky.
Whistler, Canada
The snow-covered peaks, paired with sleek, modern architecture, create a visual feast for the eyes. Cozy up in the mountain resort’s stylish spaces, where contemporary design flows into the natural beauty around you. Whether you’re on the slopes or sipping cocoa by a fire, Whistler is the perfect winter destination.
Year-Round Creative Hubs
Cape Town, South Africa
A breathtaking blend of cultural richness and natural beauty. Surrounded by dramatic landscapes, the city pulses with an arts and fashion scene that’s growing by the day. Explore the streets of Bo-Kap with its colorful houses and be inspired by local design studios that are pushing boundaries.
Marrakech, Morocco
Whether it’s the intricate tilework of the Medina or the modern design in the city’s chic riads, Marrakech never stops inspiring. Year-round, the streets are alive with color, culture, and creativity—perfect for those who are drawn to both ancient and contemporary design. Don’t miss the bustling artisan workshops!
Medellín, Colombia
The city’s transformation is nothing short of inspiring, where fashion, art, and design blend effortlessly with its cultural resurgence. From outdoor murals to creative spaces that buzz with energy, Medellín invites you to experience the fusion of modern design and rich heritage in every corner.
Mérida, Mexico
This charming city blends colonial architecture with a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere that’s both inviting and inspiring. With its eco-conscious approach to architecture, a changing arts scene, and nearby cenotes, Merida offers a creative retreat year-round, a place where nature and design inspire creative exploration.
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The towering skyscrapers of the city complement the lush greenery and traditional markets that bring life to its lively neighborhoods. Whether you’re marveling at the Petronas Towers or exploring local art galleries, Kuala Lumpur offers a striking balance between innovation and heritage, inspiring creativity all year long.
Let these destinations be your canvas for 2025—a year where your creative spirit leads the way. Which city will be your first stop?
