Expedia has recently revealed their 11 top ‘detour destinations’ for 2025, with a focus on less crowded and lesser-known destinations. These alternative destinations offer travelers a chance to explore new places and avoid contributing to the issue of overtourism. Three of the top alternative destinations are in Europe, including Reims, Brescia, and Girona. Reims, located just 45 minutes from Paris, is known as France’s unofficial champagne capital and is home to many champagne-producing houses. The city also boasts cultural attractions such as the gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims. Brescia, located in Lombardy, Italy, offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Milan, with significant Roman ruins and beautiful Renaissance-era piazzas. Girona, just 40 minutes away from Barcelona, is a hidden gem for architecture lovers, with a mix of architectural styles and unique attractions such as the Museu del Cinema.
Expedia’s list of ‘detour destinations’ also includes places in North America, Australasia, the Middle East, and Asia. Cozumel in Mexico, known for its scuba diving opportunities, offers a more laid-back alternative to popular destinations such as Cancun. Abu Dhabi, just 90 minutes drive from Dubai, boasts impressive landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi museum. Palm Springs and Santa Barbara in California, both located near Los Angeles, offer outdoor activities, cultural events, and natural beauty. Canmore, just 75 minutes away from Calgary, is a picturesque mountain town in the Rocky Mountains, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
In Asia and Australasia, Fukuoka in Japan is recommended as Japan’s friendliest city, known for its cherry blossoms, seafood, and cultural festivals. Krabi in Thailand is suggested as an alternative to Phuket, with stunning coastlines, rock climbing opportunities, and island hopping adventures. Waikato in New Zealand, located near Auckland, offers a variety of activities such as surfing, river-rafting, and caving expeditions to see glow worms in the Waitomo Caves. These alternative destinations provide travelers with a chance to explore new places, experience different cultures, and enjoy unique attractions away from more popular tourist spots.
By choosing ‘detour destinations’ over overcrowded and well-known destinations, travelers can have a more authentic and less crowded travel experience. These alternative destinations offer a chance to discover hidden gems, explore off the beaten path locations, and support local communities that may not benefit from overtourism. Expedia’s list of top detour destinations for 2025 provides travelers with a variety of options across different regions, from Europe to Asia, where they can immerse themselves in new landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Whether it’s visiting a charming champagne city in France or exploring a picturesque mountain town in Canada, these alternative destinations offer a unique and memorable travel experience for adventurous globetrotters.
