8 Best Holiday Spots for Cat Lovers in 2025

If you adore cats and want to discover unique holiday destinations where felines reign supreme, this guide is for you. Cats captivate hearts worldwide with their clever, agile, and often mysterious nature. From floating shelters to cat islands, you’ll find extraordinary places dedicated to our feline friends that promise a memorable trip.

Planning a summer break that combines travel with your love for cats? Here are 8 of the best holiday destinations for cat lovers in 2025, featuring cat sanctuaries, historic spots, and cultural experiences infused with feline charm.

1. The Extraordinary Cat Boat, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam, with its iconic canals and rich culture, houses the unique Cat Boat or Poezenboot. This floating cat shelter is a sanctuary for rescue cats, offering visitors a chance to meet and adopt stray cats cared for on the water. Nearby, the Katten Kabinet museum showcases one of the world's finest cat art collections featuring works by Rembrandt and Picasso. Remember to respect the cats and environment when visiting.

2. Egypt's Moggie Mecca: Cairo

Ancient Egypt’s reverence for cats is legendary, visible in museums and tomb paintings throughout Cairo. The Egyptian Mau breed originates here, known for grace and history. Cats freely roam Cairo’s streets, embodying millennia-old respect. Visit the Egyptian Mau Rescue Organisation to support local cat welfare and adoption efforts.

3. The Laid Back Cat Cafés of Japan

Tokyo and cities across Japan host around 150 cat cafés, where visitors sip tea while enjoying the company of resident cats. These cafés offer a serene urban retreat for cat lovers and promote adoption. The famous Calico Cat Café in Tokyo is a must-visit. Be mindful to follow café rules that ensure the well-being of the cats.

4. Kuching: Malaysia's Cat City

Meaning “Cat” in Malay, Kuching features cat statues and a fascinating cat museum whose entrance mimics a giant cat’s mouth. The museum holds more than 2000 artefacts, including a mummified Egyptian cat, celebrating cats in culture and religion. The city promotes kindness toward cats, making it a warm destination for feline fans.

5. The Fun Average Joe Cat Show, Arlington, USA

Held annually in May, the Average Joe Cat Show is a quirky event showcasing unique moggies rather than pedigrees. Located in Washington State, it gathers cat lovers from far and wide to enjoy an amusing celebration of everyday cats. It’s a lively and informal way to experience American feline culture.

6. Hemingway Cats, Key West, Florida

The legacy of Ernest Hemingway’s famously polydactyl cats lives on at his Florida home, now a museum. Visitors meet descendants of his original six-toed cats, indulging in both literary history and cat cuddles. This spot combines cultural heritage with feline fascination in a sunny setting.

7. Tashirojima Island, Japan

Known as Japan’s Cat Island, Tashirojima is a peaceful haven with more cats than residents. Originally brought to control pests, these pampered cats roam freely. Visitors can camp here and enjoy a cat-themed resort. Ethical tourism is encouraged to protect the cats and preserve the island’s unique character.

8. The Hermitage Museum Cats, Russia

The Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg is famously guarded by cats who keep rodent populations at bay. This tradition dates back to 1745 when Catherine the Great introduced them. Over 50 cats patrol the museum, and April’s Annual Day of the Hermitage Cat invites visitors to celebrate these noble mousers.

Responsible Travel Tips for Cat Lovers: When visiting these destinations, always prioritise the cats’ welfare. Choose sanctuaries and cafés that adhere to high animal care standards. Avoid disturbing wild or stray cats, and consider supporting local rescue organisations or adopting ethically if inspired.

This 2025 collection of cat-friendly holiday spots offers fascinating culture, heartfelt history, and opportunities to meet and support our feline companions while travelling responsibly.