Top City Destinations to Travel in 2020

As we enter the next decade of travel, prepare for major wanderlust. 2020 is the year to make all your holiday dreams happen – to all the right destinations. To help you discover the hottest destinations making their mark this year, Expedia has delved into its traveller data to reveal the top up-and-coming international destinations for Aussies in 2020.

The winners are listed in no particular order, but they all have something to brag about. From white sandy beaches to historical sights and old charm architecture, they all make great bucket list travel destinations for the year ahead.

Pick your favourite or get inspired, here’s our list of top destinations for 2020:

1. Cesme, Turkey

This coastal town is set to make its mark as the go-to destination on the eastern European border in 2020. Famous for its thermal spa and mud baths, Cesme is scattered with history, colourful houses, spas, cheap eateries and let’s not forget the long seafront promenade, making it the ideal spot for any holiday-goer.

2. Oaxaca, Mexico

Dubbed as Mexico’s hot new destination, Oaxaca is the country’s cultural hub. From its arts and crafts, diverse wildlife, beautiful sites and delicious food scene, it’s no wonder it’s working its way up the ranks as a popular destination. The beautiful petrified waterfalls of Hierve al Agua and the settlement of Monte Albán are natural sites that won’t disappoint.

3. Senggigi, Indonesia

Once known as Lombok’s original tourist hotspot, Senggigi was overtaken by the likes of Kutu and Gili islands, however, it’s making a comeback in 2020. Known for its sweeping bays, white sandy beaches and beautiful reef and marine life, Senggigi is the perfect getaway close to home.

4. Busan, South Korea

From the breathtaking beaches, temples and mouth-watering street food, Busan, South Korea’s second largest city is making its way to the top of many bucket lists. Aussies won’t know where to look when they land in Busan, as the city gives you the vibe of five different destinations rolled into one. The non-negotiables? Visit Busan Tower, a 120-metre-high tower with a stunning view, Gamcheon Culture Village, a kaleidoscope of coloured houses and streets, and Heosimcheong Spa, known as one of the largest hot spring spas in the world.

5. Pacific Islands, beyond Fiji

While Fiji remains a favourite holiday destination, Aussies are broadening their Pacific Island interest by holidaying in other spots such as Samoa, Vanuatu and the Cook Islands. With Aussie families being more adventurous in their travel and not afraid to go the distance with their little ones, the Pacific Islands offers great and affordable locations for all members of the family to enjoy.

6. Turin, Italy

Located in Italy’s north, this beautiful Alp-fringed city increased in demand by over 50% in 2019 compared to the previous year. Often overlooked, Turin is slowly growing as a city destination, packed with extravagant palaces, historical buildings, tree-lined boulevards, art-nouveau cafes and the birthplace of chocolate.

7. Marbella, Spain

Marbella is a city and resort area located in Spain’s Costa del Sol. With great weather all year-round, Marbella is the perfect destination for families, couples and groups of friends. Boasting a beautiful old town rich in culture and kilometres of sandy beaches, Marbella is the ideal location for relaxation and fun.

8. Nagoya, Japan

With the biggest sporting event coming to Japan, there’s no doubt it will be a hot destination for the year to come. However, Expedia data shows Aussies are exploring beyond the main cities and branching out to off-the-beaten track destinations such as Nagoya. Said to be the home of both samurai and ninja culture, Nagoya offers rich history, unique culinary experiences and for the car-lovers, it is the centre of the automotive industry in Japan.

What’s on your bucket list for 2020?