This historic Scottish gem has been named one of the world’s top travel and art hotspots for 2025Edinburgh has been named one of the world’s top travel and art destinations for 2025 by Trip.com(Image: Getty Images)

A historic Scottish city has been recognised as one of the best places on the planet to visit in 2025, and one of the world’s top spots for art lovers too.

In Trip.com’s newly released global rankings, Edinburgh secured multiple placements across prestigious lists, praised for its beauty, rich history and vibrant culture.

“Looking for your next adventure in 2025?” the travel company wrote. “Discover the hottest travel spots and see where fellow travellers are heading with Trip.com’s 2025 global rankings. This annual collection of curated ‘Top 100’ lists covers Stays, Attractions, and Restaurants across the world, offering a comprehensive data-backed AI guide to the best travel experiences of the year.”

Top of the list is exploring Edinburgh’s historic heart, from the iconic Castle on Castle Rock to the bustling Royal Mile(Image: Getty Images)

“This year’s edition unveils several exciting additions,” the statement continued.

“Significantly, Europe 100 and Americas 100 lists make their debut, expanding the regional rankings beyond the established Global and Asia 100 lists to celebrate more of the world’s best destinations.”

Edinburgh claimed the 29th spot in the Global 100 Best Destinations of 2025 list, with an impressive 9.8 rating on the site. Among UK cities, only London ranked higher, coming in second overall with a perfect score of 10.

Paris secured the top spot, with other European favourites like Barcelona, Rome, Venice, Milan, Madrid and Vienna also placing ahead of Edinburgh.

Trip.com recommends Calton Hill for stunning panoramic views over Edinburgh’s skyline(Image: Getty Images)

This marks the second consecutive year that the Scottish capital has earned a place in the prestigious Global 100 list.

In the Europe 50 Top Destinations of 2025 list, Edinburgh climbed even higher, ranking ninth. Glasgow also made an appearance, coming in at number 43. Other UK cities featured in this list include York (24), Manchester (26), Oxford (34), Cambridge (38), and Bath (44).

Edinburgh also cemented its status as a cultural gem, landing 37th place in the Global 50 Art Treasures of 2025. London was the only other UK city to feature, ranking eighth. Both cities retained their spots in the list for the second year running.

Trip.com has revealed the top experiences for anyone visiting the Scottish capital, and there’s something for every kind of traveller.

At the top of the list is exploring the city’s historic heart, starting with Edinburgh Castle, perched dramatically on Castle Rock, and wandering the Royal Mile, lined with pubs, shops and centuries-old landmarks. Below ground, the eerie Edinburgh Vaults offer a glimpse into a darker past.

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Visitors are also urged to take in the views from Calton Hill or hike up Arthur’s Seat, the ancient volcano in Holyrood Park popular for sunrise and sunset walks.

Other must-dos include visiting the National Museum of Scotland and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the monarch’s official Scottish residence, as well as touring the Scottish Parliament.

For culture lovers, Trip.com recommends catching a show at the Edinburgh Playhouse or taking part in a ceilidh dance. Foodies are encouraged to sample local favourites like haggis, neeps and tatties, or visit the Scotch Whisky Experience.

Rounding off the list are day trips to the coast at North Berwick or Dunbar, and exploring the historic underground world of The Real Mary King’s Close.