Top 10 Global Destinations Trending for Americans in 2025

5. Athens, Greece: History Meets Modern Cool

Athens returns to the global limelight, leading a wave of renewed interest in Greek travel. Trip searches for Greece have jumped 22% in 2025, reflecting the city’s magnetic mix of ancient ruins and dynamic nightlife. The Acropolis stands as a testament to history, while hip new neighborhoods offer creative cuisine and stylish bars. Investments in public transportation and a new crop of boutique hotels are making Athens more accessible—and enjoyable—for Americans looking to go beyond the usual tourist trail. Travelers can discover lively markets, sample traditional meze, or kick back in modern cafés with a local twist. Athens also serves as a gateway to Greece’s lesser-crowded islands, especially as ferry connections improve and new routes open up. Value-minded visitors will find the dollar goes further with early bookings, especially when searching for seasonal deals. Experts recommend pairing time in Athens with island adventures, noting the city’s energy is best balanced with a dip in the blue Aegean.