National Geographic's top 2025 travel spot
The Murray River, Australia's iconic waterway, has recently been recognised as one of the 25 best places to travel to in the world for 2025 by National Geographic in their annual 'Best of the World' list.
This prestigious accolade places the Murray River alongside global destinations such as Los Angeles, Abu Dhabi, and Bangkok.
National Geographic lauds the Murray as the 'agrarian heart of Australia' and underscores its remarkable status as the world's third-longest navigable river, trailing only the legendary Amazon and Nile.
The publication highlights the river's 1,500-mile journey through Australia's heartland, from northeast Victoria to the Great Australian Bight near Adelaide.
Murray Regional Tourism chief executive Cameron Sutton expressed his excitement about the recognition, stating.
“This is an incredible honour and one we do not take lightly. Our inclusion highlights the beauty and uniqueness of the Murray River region and presents it to a global audience.”
The Murray River offers a diverse range of activities for visitors, from leisurely fishing for Murray cod to gentle canoeing, scenic riverboat tours on paddle steamers, and for the more adventurous, waterskiing.
National Geographic specifically mentions the new PS Australian Star, set to debut in June 2025, which will offer multi-night cruises from the Victorian town of Echuca.
“The Murray connects us all, no matter the location, there's a certain magic that cannot be described, it must be experienced,” Mr Sutton added, emphasising the river's universal appeal.
This recognition is expected to boost tourism in the region, attracting both domestic and international visitors to experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities along the Murray River.
For those interested in exploring all 25 destinations featured in National Geographic's 'Best of the World' list, visit https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/slideshow/best-of-the-world-2025.