The only Aussie place to make National Geographic's 2025 best list

National Geographic has singled out one place in Australia on its Best of the World list for 2025… and it’s not any of the usual suspects.

An unsung Aussie region has edged onto National Geographic’s Best of the World list for 2025. The Murray River joins destinations such as Greenland and an active volcano in Guatemala as one of the world’s most exciting places to visit next year.

The Murray River has been singled out by National Geographic as one of the best destinations in the world for 2025. (Image: Visit Swan Hill)

Running along the border of NSW and Victoria, and into SA, The Murray River is the world’s third-longest navigable river behind the Amazon and Nile. National Geographic cites the upcoming debut of the PS Australian Star – a 5-star luxury paddle steamer – as a key reason why the destination is so hot right now. The $6.75 million PS Australian Star will run multi-day cruises from Echuca starting in June 2025. Itineraries will see passengers gliding along the tree-lined banks of the Murray, stopping for day excursions to vineyards and Aboriginal archaeological sites.

Cruise between Echuca and Adelaide on a multi-day river cruise. (Image: Visit Vic)

The charming vintage paddle steamer PS Emmylou is refurbished from a 1906 steam engine and has grown to become an icon of Echuca. Due to popular demand, PS Emmylou will also expand her offerings, also ferrying passengers on a variety of three-, four- and seven-night journeys between Echuca and Adelaide from next year.

Vintage paddle steamer PS Emmylou is an icon of the Murray. (Image: Visit Vic)

Why should you visit?

Aside from the jaw-dropping natural scenery, The Murray region is steeped in history – from the charming heritage streetscapes of Gold Rush towns to the wild history of bush rangers who infamously roamed the area. The Murray is also one of Australia’s unsung foodie hotspots, with an abundance of growers, makers and restaurants where you can sample fresh farm-to-table produce. We’ve put together a more in-depth guide of the best things to do along the Murray, as well as some inspiration for how to unwind on an immersive weekend there.

The community connection runs as deep as the Murray River. (Image: Rob Blackburn/Visit Vic)