São Paulo, Brazil – Florianópolis and Rio de Janeiro have earned spots on the top 10 most sought-after global travel destinations for the summer of 2025. Released last week by the travel platform Booking.com, the ranking highlights these two Brazilian cities as the only representatives from Latin America.
Ranked fourth, Florianópolis, the capital of Santa Catarina in southern Brazil, combines urban charm with natural splendor. Home to nearly 600,000 residents, the city boasts a robust infrastructure, a diverse range of accommodations, efficient public transportation, and lush natural landscapes. Its 42 beaches cater to every type of traveler: from tranquil shores like Praia do Forte, Daniela, and Pântano do Sul, perfect for leisurely swims, to surf-friendly spots such as Joaquina, Santinho, Mole, and Brava.
Another must-visit attraction is Lagoa da Conceição, offering an array of dining options and a short 15-minute hike to a viewpoint that rewards visitors with breathtaking vistas of the region.
(photo: Miguel Magno/Florianópolis City Hall)
Seventh on the list is Rio de Janeiro, perhaps Brazil’s most iconic destination and a name synonymous with natural beauty and cultural richness. While its fame needs no introduction, the city continues to captivate tourists with its blend of cosmopolitan energy and laid-back charm. The 2016 Olympic Games left a transformative legacy, introducing new attractions that complement classics like Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, the lively Lapa nightlife, and the majestic Christ the Redeemer statue.
One of the standout legacies is the Museum of Tomorrow, a cutting-edge science museum designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. Located in the revitalized port area near Praça Mauá, the museum invites visitors to explore the intersection of past, present, and future through immersive exhibits, interactive installations, and thought-provoking projections.
(photo: Fernando Frazão/Agência Brasil)
Another emblem of the city is the Maracanã Stadium, an iconic venue for soccer enthusiasts. Having hosted the finals of the 1950 and 2014 FIFA World Cups, the stadium offers guided tours that delve into its rich history and cultural significance.
Beyond its urban allure, Rio de Janeiro’s natural wonders remain unparalleled. The Tijuca National Park, a sprawling 33-square-kilometer expanse of Atlantic Forest within the city limits, is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including capuchin monkeys, crab-eating foxes, anteaters, and sloths. For nature lovers, it’s an unmissable experience.
(photo: Tânia Rêgo and Fernando Frazão/Agência Brasil)
Here’s the full list of Booking.com’s top 10 destinations for summer 2025:
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Paris, France
- London, United Kingdom
- Florianópolis, Brazil
- Tokyo, Japan
- Rome, Italy
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Barcelona, Spain
- Bangkok, Thailand
- New York City, United States
