The Scottish islands named in National Geographic's 'best destinations in world' for 2025

It is the only UK destination to be included in the list, with recognition given to the landscapes and unique heritage of the islands.

Bangkok, Los Angeles and the city of Cork in Ireland also make the destination list. In selecting the Outer Hebrides, National Geographic singled out visitor experiences along the Hebridean Way and the Hebridean Celtic Festival (HebCelt) as powerful draws.

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For decades, the Outer Hebrides has attracted visitors from every corner of the globe to experience the beautiful beaches and scenery of the islands along with Gaelic culture, language and history.

The latest travel accolade comes amid ongoing concerns about over-tourism and the impact of rising visitor numbers on historic sites, the environment, infrastructure and housing for those living and working full-time on the islands.

Business minister Richard Lochhead said the listing was “brilliant recognition” for the islands where 7,000 jobs were supported by tourism.

He said: “The Outer Hebrides has much to champion. From the iconic Barra beach landing to the stunning castles, Harris tweed and the blue seas that envelope Scotland’s Long Island, there are many reasons to visit.   

“Tourism plays a massive part in Scotland’s economy, with the sector accounting for 7,000 island jobs in 2022.

“I hope that, as the only UK destination featured in this prestigious list, people at home and overseas choose Scotland as their next destination and enjoy the culture and adventure our nation possesses in abundance.” 

Vicki Miller, VisitScotland chief executive, said: “These wild, but captivating islands offer something for everyone – stunning scenery, unparalleled opportunities to see amazing wildlife, a rugged coastline, delicious food and drink with strong local provenance, and an incredible historical and archaeological story to tell.

“Our communities, along with our natural and cultural heritage, are what make these islands so special.  

“At VisitScotland we encourage all visitors to respect the people and places they visit for a better experience for everyone. For several years now, our focus has been on growing the value of tourism rather than volume of our visitors, while raising the profile of this beautiful destination on the world stage. 

“Our activity focuses on promoting the Outer Hebrides - and Scotland as a whole - as a year-round destination, inspiring visitors to slow down and immerse themselves in the places they are visiting, encouraging geographical spread.” 

Cllr Kenny Macleod, convener of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, said the listing was an “honour” that everyone in the community “should be proud of”.

He said: “In the Outer Hebrides, we are blessed with stunning natural landscapes, rich culture and deep history. While these factors draw visitors from around the world, the inclusion on this list is a recognition of people as much as place and would not be possible without the hard work of all stakeholders in the local tourism sector.  

“The work of VisitScotland and Outer Hebrides Tourism to responsibly market the Outer Hebrides as a location for visitors should particularly be praised.

“Alongside this promotion, the increase in community ownership across the Outer Hebrides has allowed our communities to create their own visitor infrastructure and ensure localised benefit is received when individuals visit our islands.”

Sarah Maclean, chief executive of Outer Hebrides Tourism, said: “We are delighted that National Geographic has recognised the Outer Hebrides as one of the best destinations in the world. It is such as special place  – one of the few remaining places in the world where you will hear Scots Gaelic spoken among awe-inspiring landscape shaped by the power of nature. 

“In 2025 we look forward to welcoming new and returning visitors to share, enjoy and respect the outstanding beauty and unique Hebridean of our islands.”