Travel experts' guide to the best places to visit in Asia in 2025

Sumba, Indonesia, is an enchanting escape combining unspoiled natural beauty and rich cultural traditions. Known for its idyllic beaches like Nihiwatu (once voted the world’s best beach) and dramatic landscapes of rolling savannahs, this remote island is perfect for travellers seeking adventure and tranquillity. Don’t miss exploring Weekuri Lagoon, a natural saltwater pool perfect for a refreshing swim.

Dive into the culture through Pasola, a traditional spear-throwing festival celebrated in February and March, or marvel at the megalithic tombs of Anakalang in West Sumba that whisper tales of ancient customs. The island’s eco-tourism scene is also buzzing with new resorts like Cap Karoso, which blends luxury with sustainability and offers cooking classes with local farmers.

For first-time visitors, Sumba’s friendly locals and laid-back vibe promise an unforgettable experience. In 2025, Sumba will become even more accessible with a revamped Tambolaka Airport welcoming direct international flights, making it easier than ever to experience its wonders. 

Time Out tip Visit during the dry season (May – October) for sunny days and the best chance to catch cultural festivals.

Siargao is having its moment. To be fair, this teardrop-shaped island in the Philippines has always been on the surfing community's radar, thanks to the spectacular surf breaks at Cloud 9. But the rest of the world is waking up to this surfing capital's relatively unspoiled charm, and with increased flights from Manila and Cebu, there's no time like the present to visit. The best time here is had on the waves, whether you're just starting out on baby breaks at Jacking Horse or carving it up like a beast at Cloud 9 itself. The island is blessed with natural treasures, so hop on a tuk-tuk or rent a scooter to search out waterfalls, rock pools, and Siargao's pristine northern beaches. Mobile service might be patchy and the roads bumpy, but that's the small price for some truly raw and wonderful experiences. 

Of course, there are no missing the signs of rising development in Siargao, but that's not always a bad thing. Cloud 9 Skatepark, Siargao's first free skatepark, opened this year with weekly skateboarding classes led by local youth. Those who need to scratch their urban itch can also scour Tourism Road for vegan Filipino eats at Cosmic Siargao, Spanish fusion fare at the new Secreto Restaurant & Cocktails, and wine and tapas at the newest kid on the block, The Green Room. 

Time Out tip Head to Siargao in September to catch world-class surfers tearing up the waves during the annual Siargao International Surfing Cup. This is also when the weather is best – you're well past monsoon season, and the weather's not as hot as it is between June and August. 

Situated between Sơn Trà Mountain and the South China Sea, Da Nang has long been a favourite beach destination for regional travellers. But while it has always been known for its laid-back charm, this coastal gem is rapidly evolving, catching up to Saigon and Hanoi with an emerging dining and bar scene. This year alone, Da Nang made waves with 16 new Bib Gourmand entries in the Michelin Guide – including the contemporary Indian hotspot Rang – and its first Michelin star at the French fine-dining restaurant, La Maison 1888.

Cocktail lovers, take note: Da Nang’s bar scene is one to watch, with standout spots like Makara, The Craftsman Cocktail Bar, and P.Antheon delivering serious drinks and the vibiest atmosphere. For a plush stay, consider the new Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang or the 2025 opening of  Nobu Danang, the buzzworthy Southeast Asian debut of Nobu Residences.

Time Out tip Up for an adventure? Rent a motorbike and drive the scenic route through the Hai Van Pass to Hoi An, the stunning ancient town known for its colourful lanterns and well-preserved buildings. 

Tainan, Taiwan's oldest city and original capital – also regarded as the county's foodie capital – is a warm-weather southern gem, rich with history, a vibrant culture, cutting-edge arts, cool bars, and drool-worthy cuisine. Michelin-starred restaurants rub shoulders with bustling street stalls. Don't miss the local favourite douhua (tofu pudding) – a silky treat served with sweet toppings. For one of the best versions, go to Tongji Anping Bean Curd, just a short stroll from the beach. Tainan boasts an array of century-old sites, but nothing quite beats Anping Tree House. Here, a sprawling banyan tree has taken over a colonial-era Japanese warehouse, creating a surreal blend of nature and architecture with a root system large enough to walk through.

2025 is a milestone year for Tainan, as the city celebrates its 400th anniversary with the Tainan 400 series. There's a wide variety of events, including the Agricultural and Fishing Art Festival, which will run at various venues across the city until April 30, 2025.

Time Out tip Don't miss the Tainan International Dragon Boat Championships from May 30 to 31, 2025. Head to the Yunhe River between Anyi Bridge and Chengtian Bridge for front-row action. It's the perfect blend of tradition and riverside fun.

Ipoh, the state capital of Perak, welcomes everyone with open arms – thanks to increased flights from Singapore, a new two-hour express train service from KL, and a pit stop by the Eastern & Oriental Express. If you’re travelling by train, you’ll arrive at Ipoh’s magnificent colonial railway station, with its historic quarter just across the road. The city charms with heritage buildings, quaint shophouses, limestone cliffs, and cave temples.

But Ipoh is a city for eating – find the best chicken rice at Restaurant Lou Wong Tauge Ayam Kuetiau, kai see hor fun (flat rice noodle soup with chicken and prawn) at Restoran Tuck Kee, the punchy nasi ganja (Indian-Muslim mixed rice) at Kedai Kopi Yong Suan, and Sin Eng Heong for kaya puffs (coconut jam pastry). Third-wave coffee shops like Kommons, Jln Theatre Coffee, and Rahsia serve crafted espresso next to longstanding venues like Kedai Kopi Ah Chow with its classic Ipoh white coffee.

Time Out tip Jeff’s Cellar hides in a 260-million-year-old limestone cave. This is the perfect venue to celebrate a special occasion – under a gorgeous ceiling of stalactites.

Osaka has long lived in the shadow of Tokyo, but that’s changing in 2025, as this cosmopolitan city in Japan’s Kansai region emerges as the host of the second World Expo. If you’re wondering what to do in Osaka, lean on this local saying – ‘eat 'til you’re broke’ – which perfectly captures the city’s spirit. The food here is just incredible: from world-renowned street eats like takoyaki and okonomiyaki to a rapidly growing fine dining scene (The Michelin Guide just recognised a couple). 

Osaka is made for city lovers: shopping is abundant, the nightlife is vibrant, and there are theme parks for everyone, including families. Plus, the city boasts a rich cultural heritage dating back to Japan’s founding days. And if you're craving nature, there are beautiful parks and forests just on the city's outskirts.

Time Out tip Visit between April 13 and October 13 for the Osaka Expo, and be sure to check out the first Time Out Market in Asia, set to open in March.

Nan may be harder to reach than other northern Thai cities, but its stunning mountains and thriving ancient cultures make it remote and relevant for adventurous travellers today. The city itself is brimming with things to see and do, from old teak manor houses of lords long forgotten to the famous mural in Wat Phumin dubbed "Whisper of Love". A free electric tour bus loops through the city, making sightseeing easy, while the night market in the main square has a huge variety of local street snacks and souvenirs.

If you're a foodie, the city's highlight must be Yai Phon Dessert House, where you can stuff yourself silly with a menu of traditional Thai desserts made following centuries-old recipes. The province is also ripe for exploration – home to ancient salt wells, remote mountain homestays and Thailand's only chocolate-themed resort. 

Time Out tip If you plan a visit, aim for October when the rivers are high and the Boat Race Festival begins. It’s a lively riverside event where villages compete for glory amid food and festivities.

With extended visa-free stays for tourists, visiting China is now more convenient than ever. While the country has gorgeous cities from Shanghai to Chongqing, one that's been catching our eye is Lijiang. Located in the breathtaking Yunnan province, the city is famed for its UNESCO Heritage Site listed Old Town, filled with architectural gems in the style of the Naxi ethnic group. Must-sees include the Naxi royal residence, The Mufu, and the iconic Giant Water Wheels. Come during one of its many vibrant festivals, like the Lantern Festival, to shop at lively bazaars and see the Naxi people in full traditional regalia.

Yet, Lijiang's biggest calling card is its proximity to the province's most spectacular attractions. Take a day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain for a cable-car ride to the glacier-filled summit and to see the four glittering lakes in Blue Moon Valley. Tiger Leaping Gorge, a deep ravine cut through by the Jinsha River, offers multi-day hikes with views of the Jade Dragon and Haba mountains. From Lijiang, it's also not far to other hotspots like Lugu Lake (now connected by a new road) and the Tibetan town, Shangri-La. 

Time Out tip For a quieter experience, you can visit Baima Snow Mountain to see rare black snub-nosed monkeys or Shaxi Ancient Town, an old trading hub with a medieval square, quiet Buddhist temples, and an ancient bridge over a field of vibrant flowers.