Last updated January 15, 2024
If you’re looking for some travel inspo for 2023, American Express Travel just released their Trending Destinations report, which details the ten locations that are seeing the biggest increases from American tourists.
So whether you’re looking to escape the cold next winter or plan a summer getaway, one of these destinations is sure to fit the bill.
Here are the ten destinations that are trending with U.S. travelers for 2023.
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Ten Trending Destinations (+ Where to Stay)
Where will you choose from these ten trending destinations?
1. Florida Keys | Florida
What we love: The Florida Keys are a great place to vacation. They are a string of islands that stretch from the Everglades to the Gulf of Mexico. The Keys are home to more than 400 species of birds, with numerous beaches and islands, saltwater estuaries, mangrove wetlands and everglades, coral reefs and archaeological sites.
What to do: The Florida Keys are renowned for their pristine environment. They are also home to some of the best fishing, diving and snorkeling in the world, so you’re spoiled with choice!
Where to stay: Looking for an amazing island getaway in this trending destination? Look no further than Parrot Key Hotel & Villas! This classic conch-style resort is set among five acres of award-winning landscaping and tree-lined paths and offers four glimmering swimming pools, watersports rentals, on-site al fresco dining, spacious accommodations, hammocks and legendary sunset views.
Plus, you’ll enjoy lush palm groves right at your doorstep, downtown Key West and famous Smathers Beach a quick shuttle ride away. One more thing, you have the waterfront as your backyard.
2. Woodstock | Vermont
What we love: If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle-bustle of the every day, look no further than the charming town of Woodstock, Vermont. This small town has a rich history that dates back to colonial times, a gorgeous mountainous setting and a bevy of outdoor activities to keep you busy all summer long.
What to do: Woodstock is an ideal location for those who are interested in outdoor recreation, including fishing, hiking, skiing and snowmobiling.
Where to stay: Nestled in Vermont’s Green Mountains, the Woodstock Inn & Resort is a beautiful year-round trending destination that offers guests a taste of New England’s rich history and welcoming hospitality.
Founded by Laurance and Mary Rockefeller, the Inn features stunning craftsmanship and luxurious, artisanal amenities that perfectly capture Vermont’s unique style and service. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a romantic getaway or escape the city life, the Woodstock Inn & Resort is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
3. Paris | France
What we love: Paris is one of those unique places that has something for everyone. It’s a city rich in history and full of luxury and romance. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the fashionable Champs Élysées, there’s no shortage of things to do in Paris. And that’s just the surface. If you scratch beneath the surface, you’ll find a city that offers even more than what meets the eye.
What to do: Paris is a beautiful city full of history, art and culture. The food is amazing, and the wine is inexpensive. Museums, art galleries and other cultural institutions in Paris are incredibly varied and there is something for everyone to enjoy. The city also has a great nightlife scene with many bars and clubs to keep you entertained into the wee hours of the morning.
Where to stay: Le Bristol Paris is a luxurious and iconic hotel located in the heart of Paris. The 190 renovated guest rooms and suites boast French elegance and art de vivre. The hotel is also known for its outstanding dining tradition, the expansive courtyard garden and its rooftop swimming pool.
4. Istanbul | Turkey
What we love: Istanbul is situated on the Bosphorus Strait and is known for its cultural and historical significance—making it the perfect gateway between Asia and Europe.
The city has a lot to offer tourists in terms of history and culture, with landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace. If you’re looking for a 2023 vacation trending destination, Istanbul should be at the top of your list!
What to do: You can spend your vacation in Istanbul in a variety of ways. You can visit the historical sites and museums, take a boat cruise on the Bosphorus Strait or chill on the beach at the Bosphorus shore. You can also enjoy Turkish food and music, shop or just hang out at one of the many cafes.
Where to stay: Hotel Raffles Istanbul offers a luxurious experience with stunning views of the Bosphorus. With contemporary art pieces and modern architecture, the hotel is perfect for well-traveled guests.
The Zorlu Center, attached to the hotel, features upscale fashion brands and a world-class performing arts center. Raffles Spa offers Turkish baths, Eastern massages and other relaxation treatments. With its numerous bars and restaurants, the hotel offers a variety of dining options from casual to gourmet.
5. Lisbon | Portugal
What we love: The city of Lisbon is located in the heart of the country, on the west coast of the Iberian Peninsula. It is a city that is still developing, with a youthful and friendly atmosphere, and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.
Lisbon is not just about historic monuments and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. It is a city with a rich identity and a huge variety of cultural events and attractions. Lisbon is a trending destination with soul and a magical charm.
What to do: The city has so much to offer, from amazing Portuguese cuisine to stunning monuments and breathtaking landscapes. If you’re planning a trip to Lisbon, be sure to check out some of the city’s most popular attractions, like the 19th-century art movements and cultural currents that have made Lisbon a center for art and culture in Europe.
Where to stay: The five-star Corinthia Lisbon offers luxurious facilities, services and dining options. Enjoy fine dining or casual alfresco dining at one of the many trendy restaurants. Unwind with a refreshing drink at one of the three lounges with both indoor and outdoor seating.
The largest luxury hotel spa in Portugal awaits with 13 treatment rooms and a wide range of services. Recreational facilities include an indoor lap pool and adjoining sun terrace, a water therapy circuit, and a fully equipped fitness center with fitness trainers and physiotherapists.
6. Montenegro
What we love: Montenegro is a small country that is rich in culture and natural beauty. It is well known for its stunning coastlines, architecture, and landscapes. Montenegro is an easy vacation spot for anyone, whether you are a solo traveler or a family. The food is affordable and the people are friendly. While many people associate Montenegro with its most popular destination, Kotor, there are plenty of other beautiful places for you to consider.
What to do: The former Yugoslavian country is best known for its beautiful coastlines and mountainous terrain. Over the years, Montenegro has become a hotspot for tourists. Many people visit every year to enjoy the impressive architecture and natural beauty. Visitors can also enjoy some of the best beaches in Europe.
Where to stay: One&Only Portonovi offers luxurious accommodations with a restaurant and bar. With a shared lounge, the property also features a garden and a private beach area. Guests can enjoy the on-site spa and wellness facilities, which include an indoor pool and a hot tub. The area is popular for hiking and cycling (free bikes available), and car rental is available.
7. Copenhagen | Denmark
What we love: As the capital of Denmark, Copenhagen is the country’s largest city and cultural, economic and media center. It’s also one of the world’s most liveable cities, with plenty of bicyclists on its bike lanes and metro system.
In addition to its history and culture, Copenhagen offers many museums, parks, cafés, theaters and other attractions. If you’re looking for a city that has something for everyone, Copenhagen is it.
What to do: Copenhagen is a city that’s easy to fall in love with. You’ll want to visit the Tivoli Gardens, the city’s iconic amusement park, and the Rosenborg Slot Castle. You’ll want to walk along the city’s cobbled streets and admire the architecture. In the cool weather, you’ll want to grab a beer, sit outside and chat with the locals.
Where to stay: Copenhagen hot spot Manon les Suites is smack in the middle of the city center and just a few minutes walk from the Tivoli gardens, Torvehallernes food market, and design shops and restaurants. The 87 all-suite hotel offers a Bali-style indoor pool with disco lights lounge area and fitness facilities, as well as a fantastic cozy rooftop terrace.
8. Sydney | Australia
What we love: Sydney is a world-famous city located on the south coast of Australia. It is renowned for its beaches and harbor, its proximity to the Blue Mountains, its many bridges and its extensive transport network.
Sydney is also one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with a rich history and a warm, welcoming population. These factors make it one of the most trending destinations in the world.
What to do: Sydney is known for its stunning beaches, and one of the most iconic beaches in Sydney—if not the world—is Bondi Beach. Another world-famous attraction is the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which is definitely worth a visit!
If you’re into architecture or the performing arts, you might also enjoy a trip to see the Opera House. The Opera House is an iconic building situated on Bennelong Point, right on the water. The design of the building itself is quite unique and a must-see when in Sydney!
Where to stay: Billabong Retreat Sydney is the perfect place to relax, get some adventure and improve your well-being all at once. With treehouse ensuite cabins and water view rooms, as well as traditional cottage rooms available, you’ll have no shortage of options when it comes to where you want to stay.
Plus, they offer yoga and meditation classes, as well as massage therapy, so you can really unwind during your stay. The property is abundant with colorful native wildlife—you’re likely to spot hundreds of different bird species, such as albino-faced black wallabies, lace monitors, deer, micro-bats, water lizards and more! And at night the whole place comes alive with the chorus of frogs and cicadas.
9.Fiji
What we love: Fiji is an amazing place to visit for plenty of reasons, but one of the best has got to be how safe it is. It’s always great to feel like you can let your guard down on vacation and not have to worry about being in a foreign place where you’re not familiar with the area or the language.
With locals who are happy to show you around and plenty of other tourists to meet, it’s easy to feel right at home in Fiji. And if that’s not enough, the natural beauty will really take your breath away. The water is crystal clear and the weather is almost always perfect. You can spend your days basking in the sun or exploring all that Fiji has to offer.
What to do: The world’s top island trending destination, Fiji has everything from spectacular scuba diving, snorkeling and sailing to surfing and golf. And you can enjoy it all in the comfort of a luxury resort. Other activities on offer include a sunset dinner cruise, kayaking and paddle boarding.
Where to stay: Matamanoa Island Resort is an intimate and secluded adults-only Fijian resort, perfect for those looking to escape the busyness of everyday life. The Island boasts a volcanic cone jutting out of the azure waters, and is surrounded by native bush and palm trees. The lush greenery and gentle waves lapping against white sandy beaches and pristine coral reefs create an idyllic paradise for those who dream of peace and tranquility.
10. Mexico City | Mexico
What we love: Despite what some people may think, Mexico City is actually a great place to visit. Yes, the city does have its share of crime and poverty, but there are also many exciting things to see and do.
You can have a great time in Mexico City without spending a ton of money. There are plenty of free or inexpensive activities to enjoy. And, you’ll find a huge variety of food and culture. If you’re looking for a unique vacation destination, Mexico City is definitely worth considering.
What to do: Charming cities with a lot of history, culture, arts and food are hard to come by, but Mexico City has it all. Eat delicious street tacos, drink Mezcal and dance with friends.
Your options for fun are limitless in this city. You can also visit some of the many museums such as Museo de Arte Moderno (Museum of Modern Art), and Museo Nacional de Antropología (National Museum of Anthropology).
Where to stay: The Sofitel Mexico City Reforma offers the perfect blend of Mexican and French cultures, allowing you to indulge in a chic and luxurious experience. The hotel is located on the iconic Paseo De La Reforma Avenue, offering breathtaking views of the city and the Angel of Independence. This is the first luxury French-branded hotel in Mexico City, so you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
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