Astro adventures are trending – here's what it means
As 2024 comes to an end, many of us are not only looking forward to a new year full of exciting adventures, but looking up for them, too. Quite literally: Skyscanner's recently published travel trends report found that astro-tourism is on the rise for 2025, and it's only set to skyrocket further.
While some are taking travel inspiration from the recent 'cool-cationing' and 'horti-culture' trends, Skyscanner's research found that 'astro adventures' are high on the agenda for UK tourists. But what does that entail, exactly?
We've broken down the trend for you below, as well as collating our recommendations for the best trips to book for a supremely starry 2025.
What are 'astro adventures'?
The astro adventures travel trend is all about turning your eyes to the skies. As our fascination with space, science and natural phenomena continues to grow and become ever more accessible, so too does our collective understanding of our place in the universe – and with it, a newfound appreciation of being part of something bigger than ourselves.
There's nothing like beholding a major celestial phenomenon to truly escape from the mundanity of day-to-day life, so it follows that trips centred around the likes of stargazing and dark sky experiences make for the perfect holiday.
According to Skyscanner's research, UK travellers are particularly interested in catching the Northern Lights up-close, stargazing in dark sky parks and watching solar eclipses next year – of which there are set to be a grand total of four in 2025.
For UK travellers in search of dark sky experiences, 53% say watching the Northern Lights is top of their list, while 31% would rather see the solar or lunar eclipse and 28% are hoping to go stargazing in a dark sky park in 2025.
When it comes to the locations of these astro adventures, Akureyi in Iceland topped the list, followed by Rovaniemi in Finland, Tromsø in Norway and Leknes in Norway.
Whether you're more interested in exploring celestial events, discovering the mystical insights of astrology, or simply want the stars to choose your next destination – or all of the above – it's well worth considering hopping on the astro adventures trend for a truly out-of-this-world getaway.
The best astro adventures to book
Aurora spotting in Norway
If you've always dreamed of sailing through Norway's magical landscapes and experiencing the otherworldly Aurora Borealis up close, Prima's upcoming 12-day cruise is the trip for you. Visit the likes of Bergen, Tromsø and North Cape, Europe's most northerly point, all while cruising the fjords, stargazing, wildlife spotting and, of course, seeing the natural light show at its most spectacular.
An astronomy tour in Northumberland
You don't have to go far to immerse yourself in the wonders of the night sky: Northumberland's countryside is renowned for its low levels of light pollution, and boasts some of the most pristine dark skies in England. Join expert astronomer Richard Darn for a three-day trip to the county, visiting observatories and historic attractions, enjoying talks and workshops, and enjoying some spectacular stargazing to boot.
An expert-led astronomy cruise
Keen astronomers shouldn't miss the opportunity to visit Norway and see the Northern Lights with the world's first 'Chief Aurora Chaser', Tom Kerss, an expert of the field, renowned astrophotographer and author who previously worked at the Royal Observatory Greenwich. Kerss will enlighten guests and bring the galaxy to life with lectures on board the sleek MS Midnatsol as it embarks on an unforgettable voyage from Bergen to the Arctic, where sightings of the Aurora Borealis are near-guaranteed.
Midnight sun in the Arctic
Journey to Norway's Svalbard archipelago on a different kind of astro-adventure, for a 16-day cruise following Hurtigrtuen's historical voyage to chase the midnight sun. This natural phenomenon sees consecutive 24-hour periods of sunlight, and can only be experienced north of the Arctic Circle and south of the Antarctic Circle, making this a real once-in-a-lifetime trip. Joining guests will be Gardeners' World presenter Adam Frost, who will give exclusive talks and join a hiking excursion in the Urke Valley.
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