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Sagrada Familia Tops the 2025 Tourist Spot Rankings

Sagrada Familia Tops the 2025 Tourist Spot Rankings

Alexandra Dimitriou, GetBoat.com
by 
Alexandra Dimitriou, GetBoat.com
3 minutes read
News
August 12, 2025

The Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona, Spain, has been declared the finest tourist destination of 2025, according to the latest findings from TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards. This recognition is based on reviews collected from travelers between April 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025, showcasing an array of historical sites and iconic landmarks around the globe.

When planning trips, visitors frequently seek insight into the remarkable spots that should be on their must-see lists. However, with so many attractions available at one’s fingertips, it can be quite the puzzle to decide where to go. The President of TripAdvisor, Kristen Dalton, highlighted the platform’s role in assisting travelers to unearth experiences that etch unforgettable memories in their journeys. She remarked, “Whether you crave adrenaline or prefer a more relaxed pace, ‘The Best of the Best Things to Do’ showcases the world’s top-rated experiences.”

2025 Traveler’s Choice Awards: Best Tourist Destinations

The top ten travel destinations recognized by the 2025 Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards include:

Rank Destination Location
1 Sagrada Familia Barcelona, Spain
2 Eiffel Tower Paris, France
3 Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex Merritt Island, USA
4 Louvre Museum Paris, France
5 Angkor Wat Siem Reap, Cambodia
6 Mutianyu Great Wall Beijing, China
7 Anne Frank House Amsterdam, Netherlands
8 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center Abu Dhabi, UAE
9 Duomo di Milano Milan, Italy
10 Plaza de España Seville, Spain

Exploring Iconic Landmarks

Several landmarks on this list are globally recognized as symbols of tourism. Sitting at the forefront is the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, famously dedicated to the Holy Family. Designed by the illustrious architect Antoni Gaudí, construction commenced in 1882, with plans for its completion set for 2026, marking a century since Gaudí’s passing, as reported by Lonely Planet.

Visitors can easily lose themselves in the basilica’s intricate, multi-layered facade, marveling for hours as the lighting shifts throughout the day. With 18 towers symbolically representing the twelve apostles, the Virgin Mary, the four evangelists, and Jesus Christ, the basilica features exquisite decorations of colorful ceramics and Murano glass mosaics.

Notably, below the apse lies a serene, neo-Gothic underground space where Gaudí was interred on June 12, 1926. This part of the building is the oldest section of the basilica, and just beneath the Passion facade is the Gaudi Museum, offering invaluable insights into his life and work, along with an enriching exploration of the basilica’s remarkable architecture.

A Glimpse into the Future of Iconic Attractions

With tourism consistently evolving, recognizing landmarks like Sagrada Familia holds particular significance. Such attractions are often at the heart of travelers’ motivation to explore specific destinations, playing a critical role in international tourism. The way these landmarks influence travel choices can lead to shifts in tourist trends, with potential impacts on local economies and heritage preservation.

As trends in tourism fluctuate, the Sagrada Familia and other iconic sites remain pivotal in shaping global travel preferences. The ongoing public interest in unique cultural experiences indicates that such attractions will continue to resonate deeply with future travelers.

While many may find the allure of monumental sites irresistible, it’s essential to stay updated on the latest travel trends. GetBoat.com is continually monitoring the latest tourism news to guide enthusiasts on their adventures.