From Portugal to Japan: The Best Countries for Slow Travel

Understanding Slow Travel in 2025

Slow travel isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s a movement changing the way people see the world. Instead of racing through a checklist of tourist sites, travelers in 2025 are choosing to linger, savoring each moment and soaking up the local atmosphere.

The Global Travel Association’s 2024 survey found that a remarkable 78% of respondents now prefer slow travel over traditional fast-paced vacations, a number that’s grown steadily over the past three years. This shift means more people are searching for places where they can stay longer, connect with locals, and immerse themselves in regional traditions.

The rise of remote work and flexible schedules has made this style of travel even more popular. With fewer people feeling pressured to cram in every sight, the focus has become meaningful experiences rather than hurried snapshots.

The movement also ties in closely with eco-friendly travel, as slow travelers are more likely to support local businesses and minimize their impact on the environment. For many, slow travel is about finding joy in the journey, not just the destination.

Portugal: A Slow Travel Paradise

Portugal stands out as a dreamy destination for anyone wanting to travel slow. Its sun-soaked coastline, rolling vineyards, and cobbled streets create an irresistible invitation to take things easy.

According to the European Travel Commission, Portugal was ranked the 5th best country for slow travel in 2023, and its popularity keeps climbing. The Algarve’s dramatic cliffs and quiet fishing villages let visitors unwind at their own pace, while Lisbon’s neighborhoods like Alfama offer a taste of daily Portuguese life with fado music and cozy cafés.

Porto’s riverside charm and the Douro Valley’s wine culture add an extra layer of authenticity. Portugal’s affordability is another key factor drawing slow travelers; in 2024, it was listed among Europe’s most budget-friendly destinations, with average daily expenses for travelers staying below €70.

Locals are famously welcoming, often inviting visitors to join in festivals or home-cooked meals. The country’s reliable train network and scenic hiking routes also make exploring at a gentle pace both easy and rewarding.

Choosing Portugal for slow travel means discovering a side of Europe where time seems to stretch and every moment counts.

Japan: Tradition and Modernity in Harmony

Japan offers a rare blend of ancient rituals and cutting-edge technology, making it a fascinating place for slow travel. The Japan National Tourism Organization’s 2024 report revealed a 15% increase in slow travel visits, as more people seek cultural depth rather than just ticking off famous sites.

Kyoto’s tranquil temples and tea houses encourage visitors to pause, reflect, and participate in centuries-old traditions like calligraphy or tea ceremonies. Meanwhile, Tokyo’s neighborhoods, from historic Asakusa to quirky Shimokitazawa, invite travelers to discover the city’s hidden corners at their own rhythm.

Rural areas like the Nakasendo Trail allow for peaceful hikes between wooden post towns, giving a real sense of old Japan. Japanese hospitality, or omotenashi, ensures travelers feel welcomed and respected, no matter how slowly they wander.

Local trains and regional buses make it easy to reach the countryside, from Hokkaido’s wild landscapes to Kyushu’s soothing hot springs. Food is another highlight—sampling sushi at a market or enjoying a slow-cooked kaiseki meal turns eating into an art form.

In Japan, slow travel is about finding harmony between past and present, and truly living in the moment.

Italy: Culinary Journeys and Timeless Landscapes

Italy isn’t just about seeing—it’s about tasting, hearing, and feeling. The Italian National Institute of Statistics reported in 2023 that agritourism grew by 20% in just two years, showing how food and farm stays are central to slow travel here.

Tuscany’s rolling hills, dotted with vineyards and medieval towns, invite visitors to linger over a glass of Chianti and plates of homemade pasta. Emilia-Romagna, the birthplace of balsamic vinegar and Parmigiano-Reggiano, offers immersive experiences like cheese-making workshops and market tours.

Even in bustling Rome or Venice, slow travelers can find quiet piazzas to sip espresso and watch the world go by. Italy’s train system connects even small villages, making it easy to explore without rushing.

Local festivals and family-run trattorias give travelers a taste of authentic Italian life, far from crowded tourist centers. Each region has its own rhythm, whether it’s the sunny Amalfi Coast or the rustic farms of Umbria.

In Italy, slow travel is a feast for all the senses, turning every day into a celebration of art, food, and tradition.

New Zealand: Nature’s Playground for the Patient Explorer

New Zealand’s dramatic landscapes are made for travelers who want to pause and breathe in the scenery. The New Zealand Tourism Board reported in 2024 that slow travel experiences like hiking and cultural exchanges with indigenous Māori communities rose by 30% over the previous year.

From the snow-capped Southern Alps to the lush rainforests of the West Coast, the country offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure at a relaxed pace. Towns like Wanaka and Napier encourage visitors to linger in local cafes and explore art galleries.

Eco-friendly lodges and guided nature walks help travelers connect with the land while supporting conservation efforts. New Zealand’s commitment to sustainability is seen in its “Tiaki Promise,” encouraging visitors to care for people, place, and culture.

Road trips along scenic routes like the Pacific Coast Highway let you discover hidden beaches and geothermal wonders without a tight schedule. Wildlife experiences, such as dolphin-watching in the Bay of Islands or bird-spotting on Stewart Island, are best enjoyed slowly, with patience and respect.

In New Zealand, slow travel is about letting nature set the pace and finding adventure in the details.

Spain: Living the Siesta Lifestyle

Spain’s reputation for long lunches and lazy afternoons is more than a stereotype—it’s a way of life that fits perfectly with slow travel. According to a 2023 Spanish Tourism Agency study, 65% of travelers picked destinations that offer relaxation and cultural immersion, with Spain topping the list.

Andalusia’s white villages and flamenco rhythms invite visitors to wander cobbled streets without a plan. In Catalonia, slow travelers can spend hours exploring the art of Barcelona or cycling through the vineyards of Penedès.

Tapas bars and family-run markets are places to linger, chat, and savor local flavors. The tradition of the siesta, a midday rest, encourages everyone to take a break and enjoy the moment.

Spain’s extensive network of high-speed and regional trains makes it easy to reach lesser-known towns and countryside escapes. Local fiestas and cultural events offer a chance to join in age-old traditions, from tomato-throwing in Buñol to Semana Santa processions.

Choosing Spain for slow travel means embracing a pace of life that values connection, pleasure, and celebrating every day.

Costa Rica: Eco-Friendly Escapes

Costa Rica has become a symbol of eco-friendly slow travel, with its lush rainforests, beaches, and commitment to conservation. The Costa Rican Tourism Institute reported in 2024 that there was a 25% surge in visitors choosing eco-friendly travel options.

National parks like Corcovado and Tortuguero offer slow travelers the chance to spot sloths, toucans, and turtles without crowds or haste. The country’s “pura vida” lifestyle means taking time to appreciate simple pleasures, from fresh fruit at a roadside stand to a walk in a cloud forest.

Local eco-lodges and community-run tours give travelers the chance to support sustainability and learn from locals. Adventure doesn’t have to be rushed—ziplining, birdwatching, and river rafting can all be enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

Costa Rica’s dedication to renewable energy and responsible tourism makes it a favorite among those who want to tread lightly. Whether soaking in hot springs near Arenal Volcano or volunteering on organic farms, slow travelers here find joy in living close to nature.

Greece: Island Life in the Slow Lane

Greece’s islands are legendary, not just for their beauty, but for their ability to slow time. The Greek National Tourism Organization reported a 40% increase in travelers choosing slower-paced itineraries in 2023, focusing on culture and tradition.

Santorini’s sunsets and Crete’s mountain villages invite visitors to wander, taste, and explore without a schedule. The island of Naxos, with its sleepy fishing harbors and ancient ruins, is perfect for those who want to savor every moment.

Local ferries link the islands, making it easy to hop between destinations at your own speed. Traditional festivals, like the August grape harvest, let travelers join in village celebrations.

Greek hospitality—known as “philoxenia”—means visitors are often welcomed like family, whether sharing a meal or learning folk dances. From slow-cooked moussaka to lazy afternoons at a beach taverna, Greece turns every day into a celebration of life’s simple pleasures.

Here, slow travel isn’t just an option—it’s a way of being.

Canada: Wide Open Spaces and Local Connections

Canada’s vast landscapes and multicultural cities make it a haven for slow travelers craving space and authenticity. Destination Canada’s 2024 report showed a 20% jump in slow travel initiatives, especially in regions promoting sustainability and community involvement.

The Rocky Mountains offer endless trails for hikers who want to take their time, while the coastal provinces of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland invite visitors to linger in colorful fishing villages. Indigenous-led tours provide insights into ancient traditions and a deeper connection to the land.

In cities like Montreal and Vancouver, travelers can wander vibrant neighborhoods, sampling local foods and discovering hidden art scenes. Canada’s train journeys, especially The Canadian and the Ocean, let you watch the country’s ever-changing scenery unfold, mile by mile.

Small towns and rural communities often host festivals and farmers’ markets, offering a taste of local life. In Canada, slow travel means swapping busy schedules for open roads, friendly faces, and unforgettable landscapes.

France: Savoring Life’s Pleasures

France has always been a country that celebrates the art of living well, which aligns perfectly with the philosophy of slow travel. In 2024, the French Ministry of Tourism noted a marked increase in travelers seeking extended stays in rural regions, such as Provence and the Loire Valley.

Here, visitors are encouraged to wander through lavender fields, enjoy leisurely picnics by the river, and sample wines at family-run vineyards. Paris, while famous for its iconic landmarks, also offers hidden courtyards and local cafés where time seems to stand still.

The French tradition of “flâner,” or strolling without a destination, is a central part of the slow travel experience. Local markets burst with seasonal produce, inviting travelers to cook and eat like a local.

France’s extensive train network makes it easy to explore charming towns at your own pace, without the stress of navigating busy highways. Choosing France for slow travel means embracing a lifestyle that values beauty, taste, and the simple joys of everyday life.

Vietnam: Timeless Villages and Tranquil Landscapes

Vietnam is emerging as a favorite among slow travelers, thanks to its unhurried countryside and vibrant traditions. In 2025, the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism reported a 22% increase in travelers opting for homestays and rural experiences over city hopping.

The Mekong Delta’s floating markets and the peaceful rice terraces of Sapa invite visitors to spend days learning from local farmers and artisans. Cycling through the ancient town of Hoi An or taking a slow boat along the Perfume River in Hue lets you truly absorb the rhythm of Vietnamese life.

Street food is an adventure—sampling pho or banh mi at a tiny roadside stall is as much about the conversation as the flavor. Many travelers join cooking classes or lantern-making workshops to connect with local crafts.

Train journeys, like the Reunification Express, offer a scenic and leisurely way to see the country from north to south. Vietnam’s gentle pace and warm hospitality make it a perfect destination for those seeking a deeper connection.

Australia: Sun, Surf, and the Outback

Australia’s wide open spaces and laid-back culture make it a natural fit for slow travel. The Australian Tourism Board reported in 2024 that multi-week road trips and “van life” holidays are more popular than ever, with a 19% rise in bookings for long-term rentals.

The Great Ocean Road’s dramatic coastline, the tranquil beaches of Byron Bay, and the rugged Outback all invite exploration without hurry. Aboriginal-led tours offer unique insights into the world’s oldest living culture, giving slow travelers the chance to learn through storytelling and art.

Farmers’ markets and farm stays in Tasmania or Victoria let visitors taste local produce and meet the growers. Wildlife encounters, from kangaroos to koalas, are best enjoyed quietly and respectfully.

Even in cities like Melbourne and Adelaide, hidden laneways and artisanal food scenes encourage wandering and discovery. Australia’s vastness rewards those who take their time, turning every journey into a personal adventure.

Sweden: Embracing Stillness in the Land of the Midnight Sun

Sweden is quietly becoming a hotspot for slow travel, especially among those seeking peace and a deeper connection to nature. The Swedish Agency for Economic and Regional Growth noted a 16% increase in “nature tourism” stays in 2024, especially in remote areas like Swedish Lapland and the archipelagos.

Travelers can kayak through placid lakes, hike in endless forests, or try wild foraging with local guides. The Swedish concept of “allemansrätten,” or the right to roam, means everyone is welcome to explore the countryside freely and respectfully.

Slow cabins and sustainable lodges offer digital detox retreats, inviting guests to unplug and unwind. Traditional fika—coffee and cake breaks—encourage lingering conversations with locals.

Seasonal festivals, like Midsummer, give visitors a chance to join in ancient rituals and celebrations. In Sweden, slow travel is about finding calm and embracing the magic of simple pleasures.

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