Unique Holidays to Consider in 2025 (You’ve Probably Never Thought Of These!)
2025 is here but instead of heading to the usual hotspots (looking at you, Benidorm and Tenerife), why not try something a little different? Whether you’re planning a family escape, a romantic getaway, or flying solo, I’ve rounded up some unique holiday ideas that cater to all budgets. From unexpected destinations to quirky activities, these suggestions will have you packing your bags with excitement!
Why Try Something New?
Sure, there’s comfort in revisiting your favourite holiday destinations, but exploring somewhere new can be refreshingly exciting. A different landscape, culture, or way of life might just be the reset you didn’t know you needed. Plus, there’s nothing like coming back home with stories your mates haven’t already heard!
Now, ready to try something new? Here are some ideas to inspire your next adventure.
Unique Holidays for Families
1. Camping Under the Northern Lights – Finland
Why settle for a regular camping trip when you can stay in a glass igloo under the Aurora Borealis? Finland offers family-friendly packages where you can stargaze (or aurora-gaze) from the comfort of your own little see-through dome. During the day, try dog sledding or snowshoe hiking. It’s both magical and Instagram-worthy.
Budget Insight: Flights to Finland can sometimes be expensive, but off-peak season deals and accommodations like Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort have options for various price ranges.
2. A Treehouse Stay in Cornwall, UK
Did you know you can sleep in luxury treehouses right here in the UK? Cornwall offers some absolutely charming hideaways surrounded by woodlands. Kids will love the pirate vibes (think treetop adventures), and you can enjoy the nearby beaches when you’re not pretending to be Tarzan.
Budget Insight: Surprisingly affordable for a staycation, but book early to snag the best rates.
3. Discover Slovenia’s Lake Bled
If you’re imagining fairytale landscapes with clear blue lakes and tiny islands topped by churches, welcome to Lake Bled in Slovenia. Families can enjoy easy hikes, boat rides, and indulgent slices of Bled’s famous cream cake.
Budget Insight: Slovenia is budget-friendly when it comes to food and activities, although summer flights can get pricey—start planning now!
Romantic Getaways for Couples
4. Sailing Around Croatia’s Islands
Croatia isn’t just for Game of Thrones fans—it’s a heaven for couples looking for a relaxing (yet adventurous) escape. Hire a small boat or join a sailing tour through the Adriatic Sea’s hidden islands. Think turquoise waters, ancient towns, and secluded bays where you can snorkel.
Budget Insight: Sailing tours vary in price, and going off-season (May or September) can cut costs dramatically.
5. Wine Tasting in Portugal’s Douro Valley
Leave the beach towels behind and head inland to Portugal’s Douro Valley. Famous for its rolling vineyards and port wine, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is perfect for couples looking for romantic vineyard strolls, river cruises, and endless wine tastings.
Budget Insight: Portugal’s fantastic wine (and food!) is shockingly affordable—perfect for couples on a moderate budget.
6. Stay in a Bubble Hotel in Iceland
For those craving something unique, why not stay in a “bubble” hotel? Situated in Iceland’s wilderness, these transparent, heated domes offer panoramic views of the stars (or midnight sun, depending on the season). It’s intimate, fun, and incredibly memorable.
Budget Insight: Iceland isn’t the cheapest destination, but booking inclusive packages that cover the bubbles and tours can make it cost-efficient.
Solo Traveller Adventures
7. Cultural Immersion in Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto has something for every solo traveller—temples, tranquil gardens, and traditional tea ceremonies. It’s incredibly safe, and you can fill your days exploring shrines, cycling through bamboo forests, and devouring street food.
Budget Insight: Getting to Japan might be costly, but travelling within Kyoto is reasonably affordable, thanks to its efficient public transport.
8. A Writing Retreat in the Scottish Highlands
Ever dreamt of writing that novel or simply journaling by a roaring fireplace? The Scottish Highlands offer plenty of retreats where nature and solitude spark creativity. Combine it with brisk mountain treks and you’ve got the ideal solo escape.
Budget Insight: Scottish retreats range from posh to basic, so there’s something for everyone.
9. Volunteering at a Turtle Sanctuary – Greece
Combine a relaxing island getaway with meaningful work. Many turtle conservation programs in Greece offer volunteering opportunities where you can help with beach cleanups and turtle nest monitoring during the mornings and relax by the beach later.
Budget Insight: Most programs include food and accommodation in their small fees, keeping costs low.
Quirky Group Unique Holidays
10. Themed Houseboat Getaways – The Netherlands
Gather your crew and rent a quirky houseboat in Amsterdam or Utrecht. Spend your days cruising along the canals, visiting charming towns, and stopping off for cheese and stroopwafels. It’s quirky, fun, and offers plenty of laughs.
Budget Insight: Group splitting the costs makes this an affordable and unique experience.
11. Sandboarding in the Sahara – Morocco
Ever tried surfing on sand dunes? Head to Merzouga and experience desert life with activities like camel trekking and campfire dinners under the stars. Sandboarding is a must for thrill-seekers (and yes, falling into the sand is more fun than it sounds).
Budget Insight: Morocco offers incredible value for money with plenty of budget-friendly options.
12. Jazz Festivals in New Orleans – USA
For music lovers, nothing beats dancing through the streets of New Orleans during their famous jazz festivals. Think live music, Creole food, and more cultural experiences than you can pack into a weekend. It offers so much for than the usual holiday destinations of NYC or Los Angeles.
Budget Insight: Flights to the USA can be tricky for budgets, but accommodations and food in New Orleans are fairly reasonable.
Treat Yourself to New Experiences in 2025
With so many unique holiday ideas on the table, 2025 is your year to break out of the travel routine and try something refreshingly different. Whether you opt for stargazing in Iceland, indulging in cream cakes at Lake Bled, or volunteering in Greece, there’s a perfect adventure waiting for you.
Don’t wait, start planning now, overcome your anxiety and you’ll be set to explore the world in ways you’ve never considered before. Got more ideas for unique holidays? Share them in the comments below! Don’t forget too to consider an eSim to save money on travelling, I have used them before and can definitely recommend them.