Known for being home to the production of the finest Port in the world, Porto in Portugal is a location of increasing popularity. Portugal has always been a popular destination for those looking to escape to some sun, but often places like Lisbon and Faro overshadow the beauty of Porto. Porto and the north of Portugal are known for their scenic beauty and abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that date back hundreds of years. Quaint villages often come accompanied by castles, ancient churches, landscaped gardens, and monasteries, as well as a friendly, welcoming culture that makes it an often overlooked but stunning destination.
Jurga Rubinovaite, the founder of Full Suitcase, thinks that Porto and Portugal will prove to be some of the most popular destinations in 2023, thanks to their natural beauty and charm. She explained further: "I think that Portugal is going to see an increasing number of tourists in the coming years. With a great mix of history, culture, impressive architecture, and stunning coastlines, Portugal has a lot to offer any type of traveller. Portugal truly has everything from city trippers and history buffs to families looking for a relaxing beach holiday!
"Plus, Portuguese food is really good, the wines are delicious, and the prices are very reasonable. In fact, Portugal is among the most affordable holiday destinations in Western Europe. With excellent flight connections and a great climate, Portugal is a wonderful year-round destination that should definitely be on your radar."
If you're looking to travel to Porto in 2023, then why not check out the luxurious Six Senses Douro Valley or Vidago Palace for a peaceful and comfortable holiday to Spain.
A fashion powerhouse and location known for being unequivocally stylish, Milan is an Italian destination we're predicting to be a popular location in 2023 for those looking to escape to the city's elegant streets. A paradise for shopping lovers, the streets of the city are lined with luxury stores and award-winning restaurants, making it a popular destination for the rich and famous. If you're looking to take your holiday to an extra special level, then the ballet, opera and theatre in Milan will never disappoint, with La Scala being one of the best-known destinations in the world for classical entertainment.
Ellie, a blogger at The Wandering Quinn, recommended Milan to us when it comes to destinations sure to be popular in 2023 and also recommended taking day trips to other local cities whilst in the area to make the most of stunning Italian scenery.
"With increased flight prices looking to continue into 2023, my recommendations of where to travel next year revolve around destinations that are cheaper when you arrive and lesser-known destinations. On that note, flying and staying in a popular city like Milan and taking day trips to lesser-visited cities like Bergamo or the countryside is a great idea."
Looking for luxury hotels in Milan, then no look no further than the Four Seasons Hotel and the Mandarin Oriental.
One of the 99 islands off the coast of Malaysia, Langkawi is a destination that shouldn't be overlooked when travelling in 2023. What could be more enticing than vibrant green jungles, lush paddy fields, crashing waterfalls and enchanting beaches? We don't believe there is a location in Malaysia more stunning than Langkawi. Wildlife-watching, rainforest hikes and sunbathing on white-sand beaches are just some of the amazing things you can do on the island. Vibrant nightlife accompanies luxury resorts, stunning views and a relaxed and friendly culture. Why do we think Langkawi will be popular in 2023? Simply because of its relaxed culture and breathtaking beauty.
Ellie from The Wandering Quinn also mentioned Langkawi when we asked for her top destinations for 2023, and she explains why she thinks Malaysia will be a top pick for tourists in 2023: "For long haul, look into options in Malaysia! The clear waters of the Perhentian islands or the fun of Langkawi are enough to rival both Bali and the Thai Islands, with Kuala Lumpur being a fascinating city to visit too."
Some of the very best hotels in Langkawi include the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi, The Datai Langkawi and The Ritz-Carlton .
An ever-popular destination that we see taking top spots in 'must-visit' lists in 2023 is Japan and, more specifically, Kyoto.
Vicky, a blogger and lover of all things travel at Vicky Flip Flop Travels, thinks that Japan will be more popular in 2023 than ever before and explains a little more about her reasoning: "I think Japan is going to be really popular. It's just opened up again for foreign tourists after all this time being closed for Covid. I was there in January 2020, and the buzz and excitement for the Tokyo Olympics was palpable. It was so sad that they had to have a muted celebration in the end. But now, it's the place to be.
"Japan is one of my all-time favourite countries, and there's just so much to see, do and experience there that I think travellers looking for an incredible experience to get them back in the spirit of travel will be yearning after somewhere this exciting. I'd recommend visiting Japan for three weeks, so you can really experience the way of life and have a good go at all the incredible things to do over there. Also, try as muchdelicious Japanese food as possible!"
The beating spiritual heart of Japan, Kyoto is a city built from authentic traditions and unique cultural celebrations. A stay in the stunning city will offer heritage, shrines, temples, tea ceremonies and bustling, vibrant markets - what's not to love? For an alternative and immersive holiday to Japan, we really see no better location than Kyoto.
Looking for luxury accommodation in Kyoto, then why not try the Hoshinoya Kyoto or the Kanamean Nishitomiya
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
One of the world's most advanced and technologically astonishing cities, a list of top 2023 destinations wouldn't be complete without Dubai. Home to the tallest building in the world, jam-packed with awe-inspiring skyscrapers, surrounded by sweeping deserts and kept pumping by bustling souks, Dubai offers something special for all of its visitors. One of the only locations that can offer relaxing and tranquil beaches and thrill-seeking and adrenalin-filled activities all in one place. Head to the desert and sit tight as you go sand skiing or try your luck at a few holes at one of the world's most famous golf courses - the opportunities in Dubai are truly endless.
The bustling city sits in contrast to the Palm, which is home to some of the world's most exclusive resorts, including luxury hotels in Dubai like Atlantis The Palm and the new Atlantis The Royal. Atlantis The Royal is new for 2022 and is the epitome of technological luxury. Crafted by some of the world's leading designers, architects and artists it truly is a marvel standing at 43 storeys high. Home to 17 world-class restaurants and an electric nightlife, it is truly unmatched.
If you're looking for a location that will suit the whole family in 2023, then look no further than the UAE or Dubai.
Things to see and do in Dubai:
- Burj Khalifa
- The Dubai Mall
- Dubai Miracle Garden
- Aquaventure Waterpark
- Jumeirah Mosque
If you've been thinking about booking a luxury holiday in 2023 but were unsure on where to go, then hopefully this guide has given you an insight into which destinations we are predicting to be more popular than ever before. If you're looking for more travel inspiration, then make sure you head to our
luxury travel blog to find out more.