Summer Hotspots 2025: Mastercard’s Top 5 Trending Destinations

Mastercard’s latest insights reveal where globetrotters are booking their summer escapes. Based on flight bookings from June to September 2025, here are the five destinations showing the biggest surge compared to last year—ideal for travelers craving flavor, culture, and adventure. Learn more at mastercard.com

1. Tokyo, Japan

Sitting atop the list once again, Tokyo continues stealing hearts—and seats—this summer. The weaker yen has supercharged its popularity, offering travelers both luxury and wallet-friendly options. From Michelin-starred sushi counters to convenience-store vittles, Tokyo offers a vibrant urban experience unlike any other .

2. Osaka, Japan

Nipping at Tokyo’s heels is Osaka—an unfiltered crescendo of street food, nightlife, and history. Known as “Japan’s kitchen,” it dazzles with takoyaki stalls, lively izakayas, and the iconic Osaka Castle, all backed by a blossoming tourism wave mastercard.com.

3. Paris, France

The City of Light reclaiming its glamour after last year’s Olympic lull. This summer promises riverside swims, terrace café lounging, and strolls through its world-class museums—classic, yet never stale .

4. Shanghai, China

Shanghai shines as Asia’s cultural crossroad. With its skyline, art scene, and fabulously fresh food, it’s drawing international visitors once more. Cleaner skies, richer street culture, and epic dumplings await in this cosmopolitan powerhouse .

5. Palma de Mallorca, Spain

The Balearic escape reborn. Sun, sea, and fiesta culture define Palma, where centuries-old cathedrals meet beachside revelry. It’s not just a vacation—it’s a mood—and it’s spreading fast in Europe this year .

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What’s Driving the Surge?

• Currency Clout: A softer yen has turbocharged tourism to Japan, boosting both volume and diversity of travelers.
• Bespoke Experiences: Travelers are ditching cookie-cutter trips in favor of food explorations (Shanghai), cultural dives (Palma), and urban-adventure mix tapes (Paris) .
• Asia Dominates: Four of the top five destinations are in Asia—a statement of travel trends putting the Pacific Rim at the top of wanderlust maps

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Travel Tips for Airport Lifestyle Travelers

Use loyalty points wisely — these growing global hotspots offer prime time to redeem miles or book premium cabins from hubs like Newark.

Book early — high-surge destinations like Tokyo and Osaka will fill quickly.

Keep an eye on exchange rates — favorable currency can stretch your travel budget even further.

Blend city and culture — pair food-forward Shanghai with shoreline Palma or boutique Paris experiences for a rich, varied adventure.