Brisbane Named One Of The Top 10 Trending Global Destinations For 2025

Other top-ranked destinations on the list include Brittany in France, Franschhoek in South Africa, and Koh Samui in Thailand.

The annual Trending Destinations list by American Express highlights 10 must-visit vacation spots worldwide, chosen based on travel bookings from global American Express Card Members, insights from Amex Travel’s network of Travel Consultants, and trends driven by Millennial and Gen Z travelers.

The 2025 list features destinations renowned for their excellent restaurants and vibrant nightlife, and Brisbane certainly fits the bill, according to AmEx. Upcoming events like the creative and culinary showcase Night Feast, as well as the Melt Festival, highlight the city's lively dining and nightlife scene.

For those visiting, Corporate Keys offers serviced apartments in Brisbane CBD which are convenient and comfortable accommodation option, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant culture and nightlife.

“It’s no surprise that Queensland’s thriving capital, Brisbane, is among the global top 10 places to visit,” said Queensland Tourism and Sport Minister Michael Healy in an interview with Travel Weekly.

“Brisbane is a vibrant and exciting city with adventure at every turn, from acclaimed restaurants to high-octane outdoor activities on Brisbane’s iconic river. There’s something for everyone in this bustling yet relaxed metropolis.

“Known for its unique blend of culture, natural beauty, and laid-back lifestyle, Brisbane boasts a thriving arts and cultural scene featuring world-class theatres, museums, and art galleries.

“It is also Australia’s sporting capital, hosting major events such as the NRL’s Magic Round and the Brisbane International, and soon becoming the Olympic host city for the 2032 Games.

For visitors seeking longer stays, furnished accommodation options in Brisbane provide the comfort of home with the convenience of city living.

“We can’t wait to keep welcoming you back to Brisbane, time and time again.”

Trending Hotel Destinations
This year’s Trending Destinations include properties from the Hotel Collection, such as Hotel X Brisbane Fortitude Valley.

“We want our Card Members to experience all that travel has to offer,” said Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel.

“Through our global travel expertise, guides like our annual Trending Destinations list, and our lodging programs like The Hotel Collection, we help our Card Members plan all types of trips and inspire them to explore new places.

“This year, we’ve added over 300 new properties in top destinations to The Hotel Collection, providing Card Members with even more options for their stay.”

The complete list of the 2025 Trending Destinations includes:

• Brisbane, Australia – Nestled between the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, Brisbane offers excellent museums alongside vibrant dining and nightlife.
• Brittany, France – Known for its distinctive culture, coastal scenery, and miles of seaside walking paths like the GR34 trail, Brittany is a top destination for nature lovers.
• Franschhoek, South Africa – This mountain-ringed gem in the Cape Winelands is ideal for safari vacation add-ons, boasting nearly 50 wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and scenic hiking opportunities.
• Koh Samui, Thailand – Spanning 228 sq km, Koh Samui combines lush jungle, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters, making it perfect for both active travellers and those seeking relaxation. The island will also be featured on a popular TV show airing next year, attracting set-jetting travellers.
• Macau, China – Renowned for its Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Macau offers a unique Cantonese-Portuguese fusion cuisine and is known as the “Las Vegas of the East” due to its supersized casinos and award-winning restaurants.
• Moab, Utah, US – As the gateway to Utah’s “Mighty Five” national parks, Moab serves as a starting point for exploring the American Southwest, attracting travelers for world-class rafting, mountain biking, canyon hiking, or simply enjoying the stunning red rock scenery.
• Nikko, Japan – This secluded mountain retreat in Tochigi prefecture combines elements of Kyoto and Mt. Fuji, featuring photogenic waterfalls and abundant hiking trails.
• Paros, Greece – Laid-back Paros is a favorite among travelers for its vibrant cultural scene, rocky coastline, and stunning beaches, secluded coves, and sea caves.
• Sao Paulo, Brazil – One of South America's great cultural destinations, this multi-ethnic city boasts rich architectural heritage, exceptional museums, vibrant street art, and homegrown fashion.
• Sun Valley, Idaho, US – With fewer crowds than other Western ski resorts, Sun Valley appeals to both premium travellers and everyday outdoor enthusiasts. In the summer, visitors can enjoy trout fishing, whitewater rafting, mountain biking, and more.