Wanderlust Reveals Winners of 24th Reader Travel Awards
Japan, Italy, Buenos Aires, Istanbul, and Albania became the standout winners at the 24th Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2025, with Dubrovnik receiving a special mention for its leadership in addressing overtourism. The results were determined after 208,000 readers cast 4.8 million votes.
The awards ceremony, held on November 5 at London’s National Gallery in partnership with Visit Oman, gathered hundreds of travel industry leaders. The event was hosted by presenter, author, and adventurer Simon Reeve, well known for his recent television series filmed in Scandinavia.
Top Global and Regional Winners
- Japan won the title of Most Desirable Country (World), marking its first victory in over ten years.
- Italy retained its position as Most Desirable Country (Europe), underscoring its lasting appeal.
“Japan continues to enchant travellers, not only through the well-known icons of Tokyo and Kyoto but through the quieter corners that reveal its soul. From the remote islands of Okinawa and the craft villages of Kanazawa to the mountain sanctuaries of Nagano and the food scene of Fukuoka, travellers are now discovering a deeper, more authentic Japan.” — George Kipouros, Editor-in-Chief of Wanderlust
Celebrating Global Travel Excellence
The glittering 24th edition of the Wanderlust Awards celebrated the world’s most inspiring destinations, airlines, and tour operators across 22 categories, recognizing innovation, authenticity, and sustainability in global travel.
Author’s summary: The 2025 Wanderlust Awards honored exceptional global travel destinations, with Japan and Italy shining as the most desirable countries and Dubrovnik praised for its sustainability efforts.