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CNN just claimed “overtourism” was the buzzword of 2024but just because the calendar has turned to 2025, it doesn’t mean that will change.
Not to be too biased, but perhaps the buzzword of 2025 will be “off-path” as more travelers seek alternatives to stay away from fellow tourists and locals in arms who have essentially swapped their welcome mats for ”, do not disturb’ signs.
The question remains: where to go when the icons of the world need a breather?
Just released’The most important travel trends and destinations of summer 2025Hometogo has you covered.
Spoiler Alert: Americans still love Florida beaches, Italian cuisine and the captivating wonders of London.
The real surprise, based on their own insightful data, are 5 European hidden gems that Americans have shown a keen interest in gushing over this summer, and here they are:
It’s Brittany, beach!
Brittany covers much of northwestern France, with more than 1,600 miles of scenic coastlines.
One of the most unique beaches is Pink granite coast. Just as it sounds, the rosy rocks and peaceful surroundings are truly postcard-worthy, especially during Parega season.
There are dozens of stunning stops along the coast, but what’s most fascinating about Brittany is that you can study your Rosetta Stone lessons all you want, but you’ll probably learn the wrong language.
Yes, French is still spoken, but Brittany has its own language (Breton) and also a rich Celtic heritage.
One of the best ways to enjoy Celtic delights is to take part in a traditional one Fest Noz for a night full of music and dancing.
Brittany has no well-known major cities; Rennes and Brest are the two biggest blips on the map.
So, what is it that Americans are looking for in Brittany? Keep in mind that these are summer results – no better time for an Epic Beach getaway.
While the French Riviera continues to rise, Brittany still flies under the radar, making it a great alternative for fewer crowds and more authentic castle-hopping and beach-hopping adventures.
Moreover, it is so much cheaper than, for example, St. Tropez. Score the luxury Thalasso Concarnau Resort for just $142 in July.
So long, Santorini! Americans are 3 lesser known islands away
There are so many Greek islands to visit that it is impossible to check them all out. I have been fortunate enough to visit Crete and Santorini.
Although I enjoyed visiting both, I was surprised to come home hung with more memories of Crete than tourist-ravaged Santorini, but therein lies the answer to why Crete was so much more fun.
Although this was 7 years ago, and my, how the world has changed since then! Greece has skyrocketed in popularity, including more islands, so it’s not natural for Americans to look for new places when paradises like Santorini, Mykonos and Crete are now all household names.
Hometogo revealed 3 lesser-known Greek islands that are piqued America’s interest for an unforgettable summer escape:
Naxos has seen the biggest increase and speaking of size, it is the largest island of the Cyclades, offering visitors picturesque villages, stunning, vibrant beaches and pure island Bliss away from the crowds.
Lefkadas Its popularity is also quite impressive and most likely the least known of this trio. Home to countless picture-perfect beaches such as white-walled Egrinni BeachVenturing here is worth the trek for the ultimate in relaxation, especially walking inland to the hidden Nydri waterfalls.
Zakynthos has been constantly rising on travelers’ radars and is one of Greece’s most unique islands as it is laden with shipwrecks and wondrous caves.
Make sure you eat at it Keri Lighthouse Restaurant for phenomenal Elevated views rival Santorini and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.
Lake Garda: the cheaper alternative to Lake Como
Firstly, Lake Garda ranked 9th among Hometogo’s trendy summer destinations, largely in part due to its affordability factor compared to Lake Como, which doesn’t sacrifice beautiful scenery.
Lake Garda is a stunner. Whether it’s crystal clear waters, majestic mountain grounds or medieval castles, there’s more than enough to see and do to feel comfortable leaving Lake Como in the dust.
Along the lively lake there are plenty of clifftop villages, such as Sirmionewith Roman ruins, timeless streets and the aforementioned castle, Castello Scaligero (Only $6 admission.)
Some visitors to Lake Como consider it a bit on the curated/inauthentic side, but not so much for Lake Garda, where you can wander freely without the fear of falling into tourist traps.
Eat all the pasta, sip all the wine and top it off with Tiramisu amid some of the most underrated vistas in Italy.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
