The arrival of 2020 heralds not only a new year, but a new decade, with all the sparkling promise that this can bring. What better way to reinvigorate your travel bucket list than to explore places, attractions, and fresh experiences that will capture the spotlight for the first time in 2020? Happy planning!

1. Experience the Culture in Galway

Galway becomes a European Capital of Culture in 2020, placing it at the heart of cultural and artistic life across Europe. This Irish city features in GoTravelDaily’s Best in Travel 2020, where it is described as “brilliantly bohemian.” Visitors can anticipate street performances, live and digital art, as well as world-class music, theater, and dance. Brightly painted pubs overflow with live music, and cafés offer prime spots to watch talented buskers perform. Brimming with creativity, Galway in 2020 hosts a vibrant, year-long artistic celebration that welcomes you.

2. Celebrate Women’s Achievements in Baltimore

August 2020 marks the 100th anniversary of women’s suffrage in the US. In honor of this milestone, the Baltimore Museum of Art in Maryland will dedicate a year of exhibitions and programs to showcase the achievements of female-identifying artists. The initiative, called 2020 Vision, includes 13 solo exhibitions and seven thematic shows, along with a reinstallation of several museum galleries to highlight the depth and diversity of women’s artistry through time. Prepare to be inspired by this significant celebration of creativity.

3. Enjoy Thrills on Odyssey of the Seas

Cruise enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the launch of Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas cruise ship in November 2020. The ship will operate eight- and six-night itineraries from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and will feature Seaplex, the largest indoor activity space at sea. Guests can enjoy bumper cars, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, and a wide range of arcade games, which includes classic games and virtual reality experiences. Experience waves on the FlowRider surf simulator or bounce high on the Sky Pad bungee trampoline. With so much fun on board, you might never want to leave.

4. Dive into Digital Art in Bordeaux

Art and multimedia enthusiasts should visit a former WWII bunker in France, which is transforming into the world’s largest digital art centre. Les Bassins de Lumières is set to open in April 2020 in Bordeaux and will showcase dazzling displays projected over illuminated pools of water. Culturespaces, the organization behind the project, aims to create the largest multimedia installation globally, housed in what was historically one of France’s largest WWII bunkers. The venue will feature permanent exhibitions across four watersheds, and you will be amazed by the creativity on display.

5. Indulge in Luxury on the Orient Express

If you appreciate the allure of luxury trains, consider a journey on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. The ambiance transports guests back to the early decades of the 20th century. In 2020, it will be adding three new grand suites, inspired by the romance, adventure, and style of the cities they are named after. The Prague suite features hues of gold and maroon, reminiscent of a theatrical scene with cubist-inspired mosaics. The Vienna suite reflects the “imperial nature” of its namesake with gold and emerald green tones. Lastly, the Budapest suite captures the essence of both sides of the Danube, drawing inspiration from Gothic and Ottoman architecture.

6. Savor Delicacies at Time Out Market Dubai

Diners eager to explore the culinary offerings of Dubai, without straying too far, will be pleased to learn that the new Time Out Market is set to open soon. Inspired by the famous Mercado da Ribeira in Lisbon, it will feature 16 of Dubai’s top chefs and restaurateurs. Located in the Souk Al Bahar complex, the market will have three lounges and cultural experiences, accommodating around 670 guests who can savor amazing dishes from locally celebrated chefs.

7. Discover Michelangelo’s Secret Chamber in Florence

Art aficionados should consider visiting the Medici Chapels in Florence, where a secret chamber lies hidden. This chamber was where Michelangelo was believed to have taken refuge during the siege of Florence back in 1529-30. Charcoal sketches uncovered during its restoration in 1975 add a fascinating dimension to his life and work. The Bargello Museum, which manages the chapels in the Basilica of San Lorenzo, aims to open this chamber by the end of 2020, generating excitement among those interested in the renowned artist.

8. Experience the Super Nintendo World

Video game enthusiasts should plan a trip to Osaka, where Nintendo’s legacy will be celebrated with the opening of the Super Nintendo World theme park at Universal Studios Japan. With immersive rides and interactive attractions, guests can experience Mario like never before, complete with a real-life Super Mario Kart course. The rides will feature innovative technology, allowing one rider to control the drift while their partner manages weapons and power-ups. This park, set to open before the Tokyo Summer Olympics, aims to captivate both nostalgic adults and adventurous children.

9. Embark on the Game of Thrones Studio Tour

While the TV series may have concluded in 2019, Game of Thrones enthusiasts can still immerse themselves in the Seven Kingdoms in 2020. HBO is launching the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Northern Ireland, where many iconic scenes were filmed. This new attraction in Banbridge offers fans a chance to relive key moments from the series, with original costumes, imagery, fully-dressed sets, and props from the Game of Thrones universe. Don’t miss the chance to step back into this fantasy world.

10. Embrace Nature on the Paparoa Track in New Zealand

For those seeking an exciting biking or hiking challenge in 2020, New Zealand’s newest Great Walk has now opened. The 55km Paparoa Track traverses from Blackball on the eastern side of the Paparoa Range to Punakaiki on the west. It features diverse and stunning scenery, including native forests, and leads to a memorial site honoring the 29 miners who lost their lives in the 2010 Pike River Mine Disaster. Accommodations are available in huts managed by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation across all of its Great Walks.

11. Commemorate the Mayflower’s Historic Voyage

The year 2020 marks the 400th anniversary of the Mayflower’s historic voyage from the UK and the founding of Plymouth Colony in present-day Massachusetts. Commemorative events are planned in the UK, the Netherlands, and the US, celebrating the legacy of the passengers and crew who embarked on their epic journey inspired by a quest for freedom. These locations offer an international Mayflower Trail and a diverse cultural program, featuring over 400 events ranging from major civic ceremonies to local community activities throughout the year.

12. Experience Fun at the Cartoon Network Hotel

For those who dream of stepping into their favorite animated worlds, the first-ever Cartoon Network Hotel is opening in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The hotel features a variety of character-themed bedrooms and suites, with dining options at the Cartoon Kitchen offering dishes inspired by beloved shows. Guests can explore an interactive lobby, a water play zone, and an outdoor amphitheater featuring a large movie screen, fire pits, and more. Customize your stay by selecting your favorite shows, including The Amazing World of Gumball, Adventure Time, Ben 10, and others.

13. Engage with Art in London

An exhibition showcasing the work of Serbian artist Marina Abramović is coming to London from September 26 to December 8, 2020. Visitors will be invited to “squeeze past naked performers” to enter the installation called Imponderabilia at the Royal Academy of Arts. With over 50 works on display, this intriguing experience promises to challenge participants. However, for those who may feel uncomfortable, an alternative entrance will be provided.

14. Stay at Ronaldo’s New Hotel

If you admire football icon Cristiano Ronaldo, consider booking a stay at his new Pestana CR7 Lifestyle Hotel in Marrakesh, Morocco. This luxury hotel, launched in partnership with the Portuguese Pestana Group, will feature two restaurants, a business center, a gym equipped with a spa, and a rooftop garden complete with a pool and sky bar. The Moroccan design will express its heritage through geometric patterns and a rich interplay of light created by unique lamps.

15. Unwind at the Arctic Bath

Exciting news for spa enthusiasts: the Arctic Bath hotel and spa is set to open in Sweden, near Luleå. This unique establishment will freeze into the Lule River’s ice during winter and float atop it in summer. The hotel will feature six detached floating cabins and six additional cabins, each offering stunning views of the river. The open center of the bath is designed for sunbathing, ice-bathing, and stargazing, keeping water temperatures at a refreshing 4°C. However, the warmth of the saunas and the Arctic spa will provide comfort on chilly days.

16. Design Capital: Lille Awaits

The French city of Lille, located in the Hauts-de-France region, has been designated as the Design Capital of the World for 2020. This marks the first time a city in France has received such an honor. Lille will host around 50 cultural events throughout the year, including six major exhibitions, themed tours, and meetings with designers, culminating in the inaugural Lille Metropole Design Week in the fall. If you seek inspiration and artistic brilliance, Lille is beckoning you!

17. Cruise the Globe: All Seven Continents

For those with 140 days and a deep desire to explore, an incredible new world cruise is set to take place, visiting seven continents and 32 countries. The ultra-luxury World Cruise 2020 will sail on Silversea’s Silver Whisper, featuring lengthy stays and overnights at many capital cities and natural wonders known for their authentic beauty. This journey will undoubtedly be a pinnacle of travel experiences for enthusiasts aiming to check off their bucket list!

18. Experience Treehouse Living in Ohio

If you’ve always dreamed of staying in a treehouse, look forward to the upcoming Cannaley Treehouse Village, set to open in spring 2020 on the outskirts of Toledo, Ohio. Located in Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, this unique complex will include four treehouses along with three tent or hammock platforms. Each treehouse will be equipped with electricity, heat, and nearby shower facilities, creating a comfortable and adventurous outdoor experience. Canopy bridges will enhance the treehouse connections, allowing guests to feel immersed in nature during their stay, making for a truly magical getaway.

19. Celebrate Beethoven’s 250th Birthday in Bonn

Bonn, the birthplace of the illustrious composer Ludwig van Beethoven in 1770, is preparing for a grand celebration of his 250th birthday. The Beethoven Anniversary Year will showcase cultural programs, events, and exhibitions honoring this legendary musician, guaranteeing a uniquely musical experience for anyone visiting Bonn in 2020. Highlighting this jubilee will be the grand finale on December 17, 2020, coinciding with the anniversary of Beethoven’s baptism, and featuring music, lectures, and family-friendly activities throughout the year.

20. Marvel at the Forbidden City’s New Accessibility

In 2020, to celebrate the 600th anniversary of the Forbidden City in Beijing, visitors will have the unique opportunity to access a previously restricted area of the imperial palace. A new visitor center at Qianlong Garden is set to open as part of a comprehensive restoration project. Featuring three distinct halls surrounding an open pavilion, visitors can expect beautiful designs reflecting a significant period in China’s history known for its extravagant interior design.