The year 2025 is poised to see significant shifts in global travel trends, with notable changes among Greek travelers and rising concerns about digital wellbeing. Recent studies have illuminated these trends, reflecting changing preferences for travel destinations and the growing interest among individuals seeking to limit screen time.
For Greek travelers, London has emerged as the most sought-after international city in 2024, surpassing Rome, which previously held the top spot. Reports analyzing online search trends reveal this dramatic shift, as Greek travelers move their focus to the British capital. London ranked third as recently as 2022, but it has surged to claim the number one position, indicating a notable change in travel patterns.
“London surpassed Rome as the most sought-after international city,” said travel analysis sources, highlighting how destination popularity among Greek travelers is steadily changing. Rome led for two consecutive years, being the preferred destination, but it’s now clear London’s allure has captivated many. This evolution hints at changing interests among travelers, moving beyond traditional hot spots.
Alongside this trend, the analysis pointed out consistent favorites like Istanbul and Vienna, which remained firmly positioned as fourth and fifth respectively. Interestingly, Barcelona has also experienced growth, climbing to sixth place, attracting more travelers. Dubai, too, secured its top 10 standing, reflecting the growing interest of Greek travelers for destinations extending beyond Europe.
On another front, the rising trend of digital detoxing has captured attention particularly among Irish individuals. A recent study published by Cork-based Wisetek Market EU examined online search trends, showcasing Ireland’s strong interest in ways to reduce screen time and embrace more meaningful technology use. Ireland ranks second globally for digital detoxing, just behind Australia, with the study analyzing seven key terms related to digital wellbeing.
“Ireland’s second-place ranking is a clear indication of a growing movement to take control of our technology habits,” noted Teresa McCarthy, e-commerce sales manager at Wisetek Market EU. This sentiment resonates deeply as more individuals seek to balance their digital interactions with real-world experiences.
Among the noted terms are ‘screentime’, ‘dumb phone’, and ‘right to disconnect’, all underscoring the nation’s quest for healthier technology habits. The data was derived from Google Trends, with Ireland receiving 381 points out of 700 on the interest scale. This reflects solid engagement with the digital detoxing movement, indicating the public's desire to prioritize mental health and self-care.
“This is more than a trend—it’s a bit of a lifestyle shift,” McCarthy remarked. Indeed, as every aspect of life becomes increasingly digitized, individuals within Ireland are more focused on stepping back and unwinding from technology.
The search for ‘dumb phones’—simple mobile devices with basic functions—has increased by over 1,300% since early 2020, demonstrating the burgeoning preference for practical communication tools over distraction-filled smartphones. Such devices allow users to communicate without the pitfalls of modern technology’s endless scrolling and notifications.
“Basically, these dumb phones give you the essentials without the distractions,” McCarthy elaborated. Suggestions for those wishing to reduce their screen time include setting boundaries, tracking usage, and ensuring devices aren’t present during sleep hours.
The surge of interest seen from Irish people aligns with their Right to Disconnect legislation established back in 2021, allowing employees to abstain from work-related communication outside working hours without repercussions. McCarthy said, “It’s been very proactive, supporting mental health and wellbeing, which aligns perfectly with the movement toward digital detoxing.”
Travel choices and technology habits are converging as travelers seek enriching experiences. The transformative desire to balance digital engagements with real-life adventures embodies the spirit of the 2025 travel trends.
Malta is also gaining prominence, having become the top-trending European destination for summer 2025. An analysis of search data indicates online interest in Malta jumped by 57%, outpacing favorites such as Rome and Barcelona. This Mediterranean gem is attractive for its stunning beaches and rich historical background.
“Malta has emerged as the most sought-after European destination,” noted travel industry sources, highlighting how this area offers unique experiences unlike any traditional vacation spots, with breathtaking coastlines and captivating culture. Positioned between Sicily and North Africa, Malta appeals to sun-seekers and history buffs alike, making it the perfect getaway.
Travel agencies are now encouraged to tailor their offerings, ensuring the right mix of trending destinations like Malta alongside established favorites. This means creating specialized travel packages to accommodate changing preferences among global travelers.
By 2025, Greek travelers will continue adapting, exploring new frontiers, as the digital detox mindset sweeps across regions like Ireland. The desire to immerse fully—in destinations steeped with history and culture—can coalesce with the modern need to step back from the tech-dominated lifestyle many feel trapped within.