Where to Travel Each Month: Top Destinations for Every Time of Year
๐งญ Our guide to where to travel each month around the world, based on weather, crowds, local experiences and what weโve loved personally.
Planning a trip but not sure where or when to go? Weโve been there too. In fact, itโs one of the most common questions we hear from readers and in our travel planning groups. With so many options and moving parts, itโs easy to feel stuck at the very first step.
One of our favourite ways to narrow things down is to start with the time of year you want to travel, then match it with destinations that are at their best in that month. Some places are perfect in spring, others are ideal in the cooler months, and a few are best avoided during peak season or rainy spells.
In this guide, weโve put together our top destination picks for each month of the year, based on weather, crowds, local events, and what weโve learned from years of planning trips for ourselves and others.
Use it for inspiration, or as a practical way to figure out where to go next.
Where to Travel Each Month
January
January
Top Picks: Thailand, Australia, Norway, Costa Rica, South Africa, Antarctica
Why:
- Thailand enjoys dry season weather across most of the country, making it perfect for island-hopping in the south or cultural exploration in Chiang Mai and Bangkok.
- Australia is in the middle of summer so think beach days, vibrant cities, and coastal road trips along the Great Ocean Road or up the east coast.
- Norway is prime for Northern Lights hunting in Tromsรธ and the Lofoten Islands, with long polar nights and snow activities like dog sledding.
- Costa Rica offers dry season weather on both coasts, perfect for rainforest hikes, volcano views, and spotting wildlife in national parks.
- South Africa is ideal for a mix of safari and coast. Summer in Cape Town is warm and lively, while Kruger National Park offers excellent game viewing.
- Antarctica is only accessible during the austral summer (November to March), and January is peak time for wildlife, with penguin chicks hatching and whales active along the ice edges.
February
Top Picks: Vietnam, New Zealand, Argentina, Iceland, India, Antarctica
Why:
- Vietnam offers excellent weather in both the north and south. Hanoi and Halong Bay are cool and dry, while Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta are warm with little rain.
- New Zealand is in full summer. It is perfect for scenic drives, hiking, and enjoying the beaches, with great conditions across both islands.
- Argentina is ideal for exploring Patagonia, with mild weather and long daylight hours for hiking, glacier trekking, and visiting national parks.
- Iceland is cold and snowy but magical. It is a great time to see the Northern Lights, explore dramatic winter scenery, and enjoy geothermal spas like the Blue Lagoon.
- India is at its best in February, especially in Rajasthan, Kerala, and Goa. Expect warm, dry days and vibrant festivals such as the Desert Festival in Jaisalmer or Carnival in Goa.
- Antarctica is still in peak season. February offers calm seas, incredible whale sightings, and active penguin colonies, all set against the backdrop of long daylight hours.
March
Top Picks: Japan, Morocco, Jordan, Spain, Southern USA (e.g. Texas, Louisiana)
Why:
- Japan begins to bloom with early cherry blossoms in the south, particularly in Kyushu and parts of Honshu. It is a lovely time for milder weather and fewer crowds ahead of peak season.
- Morocco is comfortably warm, making it ideal for exploring cities like Marrakech and Fes, visiting the Atlas Mountains, or heading into the Sahara before the intense heat arrives.
- Jordan is also at its best in March. The days are pleasant for exploring Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum, with wildflowers blooming in some areas.
- Spain starts to come alive after winter. Cities like Seville, Granada, and Valencia enjoy mild weather, and you may even catch the Las Fallas festival if you’re visiting mid-month.
- The Southern USA is great in March, especially places like New Orleans, Austin, and Charleston. Expect spring festivals, warm temperatures, and blooming gardens before the summer humidity sets in.
April
Top Picks: Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Nepal, London
Why:
- The Netherlands is in full bloom, especially around Keukenhof Gardens and the flower fields near Lisse. Amsterdam enjoys mild temperatures and colourful canals.
- Italy is perfect for spring travel. Cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are warm but not crowded, and southern regions begin to feel summery.
- Spain continues to shine with pleasant temperatures. Andalucรญa is especially popular in April, with events like Semana Santa (Holy Week) bringing incredible cultural experiences.
- Nepal is one of the best trekking destinations this month. The skies are clear, temperatures are comfortable, and routes like the Annapurna Circuit or Everest Base Camp are in great condition.
- London begins to bloom with cherry blossoms in parks, spring gardens in full colour, and major events like the London Marathon and early royal celebrations creating a lively atmosphere.
May
Top Picks: Greece, Scotland, Japan (Hokkaido), Peru, Poland, Puglia (Italy), Portugal, Wales
Why:
- Greece is warm but not too hot, and May offers sunshine without the summer crowds. It’s ideal for visiting Athens, the islands, or exploring the mainland.
- Scotland is fresh and green, with long days and lower rainfall compared to earlier spring. It’s a great time for castle visits, Highland scenery, and spotting puffins on the coast.
- Hokkaido, Japan sees later cherry blossoms and offers spring landscapes and fewer tourists than central Japan.
- Peru transitions into its dry season, making it a fantastic time for hiking to Machu Picchu and visiting the Sacred Valley.
- Poland enjoys warm spring days, blooming parks, and fewer crowds. Krakรณw, Gdaลsk, and Warsaw all come alive in May.
- Puglia in southern Italy is beautifully sunny and full of wildflowers. Itโs warm enough to enjoy the coast, but still peaceful and authentic before summer tourism ramps up.
- Portugal is in its sweet spot โ warm, affordable, and lively. Cities like Lisbon and Porto are perfect for city breaks, and the Douro Valley and Algarve are stunning this time of year.
- Wales is lush and green in May. Itโs a great time for exploring castles, hiking in Snowdonia, or driving along the coastal roads of Pembrokeshire without peak-season crowds.
June
Top Picks: Canada, Norway, Sweden, Portugal, Bali, Turkey, Germany, Paris
Why:
- Canada is ideal in June, with long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and access to national parks before peak summer crowds arrive. The Rockies, Quebec, and coastal areas are all excellent.
- Norway and Sweden enjoy their famous midsummer light, with near 24-hour daylight in the north. June is great for fjord cruises, hiking, and cultural events.
- Portugal is hot but not scorching, especially in the north. The beaches, wine regions, and historic towns like Sintra and รvora are all beautiful in early summer.
- Bali is in the middle of its dry season. Expect blue skies, calm seas, and ideal conditions for surfing, snorkelling, or visiting temples and rice terraces.
- Turkey sees warm but manageable temperatures in June, especially along the coast. Itโs a great time for exploring Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Turquoise Coast without the intense summer heat.
- Germany comes alive in June with warm weather, open-air festivals, vineyard visits, and long evenings. Cities like Munich, Berlin, and Heidelberg are especially lively.
- Paris is at its most elegant. Think picnics by the Seine, cafรฉ terraces, and open-air events without the peak summer crowds
July
Top Picks: Alaska, Tanzania, Switzerland, Indonesia, London, Botswana, Hungary, Malaysia (East Coast)
Why:
- Alaska is one of the best places to visit in July, with long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and incredible opportunities for wildlife cruises, national parks, and glacier viewing.
- Tanzania is in the heart of its dry season, making it ideal for safari, especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater during the great wildebeest migration.
- Switzerland is perfect for hiking, lake adventures, and alpine scenery. Trails are fully open, and towns like Interlaken, Lucerne, and Zermatt are buzzing with activity.
- Indonesia offers dry weather, rich cultural festivals, and excellent diving conditions. Bali, Java, and the Gili Islands are particularly popular in July.
- London is full of energy during the summer, with outdoor events, Royal Parks in full bloom, and long evenings ideal for exploring.
- Botswana is at its peak for wildlife viewing. The Okavango Delta is in flood, making it the best time to experience game drives, mokoro safaris, and birdwatching.
- Hungary is hot and lively. Budapest hosts summer festivals, river cruises are in full swing, and the city’s famous outdoor baths are perfect for cooling off.
- Malaysiaโs east coast is in peak season in July, with dry weather and calm seas perfect for snorkelling, diving, and relaxing on islands like Perhentian and Redang.
August
Top Picks: Slovenia, Iceland, South Africa, Northern Japan, Scotland, Germany, Cambodia
Why:
- Slovenia is a wonderful summer alternative to Western Europe. Lake Bled, the Julian Alps, and the charming capital Ljubljana offer nature and culture without overwhelming crowds.
- Iceland is at its warmest, with nearly 24 hours of daylight, full access to the Highlands, and road trips along the Ring Road in peak season.
- South Africa continues to offer great wildlife viewing, especially in Kruger and Madikwe. The dry conditions make animals easier to spot around waterholes.
- Northern Japan, including Hokkaido, is cooler and vibrant with flower fields, hiking trails, and regional festivals. Itโs the best area of Japan for summer exploration.
- Scotland is lush, festive, and dramatic. August is festival season in Edinburgh and the Highlands host traditional games and outdoor events.
- Germany is lively with warm weather, wine festivals, and lake escapes. Regions like Bavaria, the Black Forest, and the Rhine Valley are all great at this time of year.
- Cambodia is in its green season, which means fewer tourists and lush landscapes. Itโs hot and humid, with afternoon rain showers, but ideal for those who donโt mind the weather and want a quieter Angkor Wat experience.
September
Top Picks: Italy, Croatia, Australia, Canada (East), Morocco, New Zealand, Germany, France
Why:
- Italy is still warm, especially in the south, but the crowds begin to thin. Itโs a great time for coastal escapes in Puglia, Tuscany wine harvests, and relaxed city sightseeing.
- Croatia offers ideal beach weather without the peak-season chaos. Dubrovnik, Split, and the islands are perfect for late-summer travel.
- Australia welcomes spring in the southern regions. Wildflowers bloom in Western Australia, and places like Sydney and Melbourne begin to warm up after winter.
- Eastern Canada begins its stunning autumn transformation, especially in Quebec and Ontario. The weather is crisp and perfect for road trips.
- Morocco cools down after its hot summer. Cities like Marrakech, Fes, and Chefchaouen become more comfortable, and itโs a great time to explore the desert and Atlas Mountains.
- New Zealand is coming into spring. Gardens begin to bloom, and the shoulder season is ideal for avoiding summer crowds while still enjoying mild conditions.
- Germany hosts early autumn wine and harvest festivals in regions like the Mosel and Rhine Valleys. It’s also a great time to visit castles, forests, and villages with pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
- France is perfect in early autumn. The vineyards in Bordeaux and Burgundy are in harvest, Paris is less crowded, and Provence is still warm and peaceful.
October
Top Picks: Japan, Spain, New England (USA), Chile, India, Turkey, Hungary, Austria
Why:
- Japan is at the start of its autumn colour season in the north and mountain regions. The weather is clear and comfortable, making it ideal for cultural travel and scenic rail journeys.
- Spain is still warm in the south, with quieter cities and fewer tourists. Andalucรญa and coastal regions like the Costa del Sol are especially pleasant.
- New England (USA) is world-famous in October for vibrant fall foliage. States like Vermont, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts are full of colour and charm.
- Chile welcomes spring in Patagonia and the Lake District. Itโs a great time for trekking before the high season hits in November.
- India is entering its festive season. Expect clear skies and a buzz of activity, especially around Diwali if it falls in late October. Rajasthan and the Golden Triangle are excellent this month.
- Turkey has cooled down after the summer heat, making it ideal for visiting Istanbul, Cappadocia, and the Mediterranean coast. Fewer tourists and lower prices make this a perfect shoulder season destination.
- Hungary offers golden autumn weather, harvest festivals, and relaxed sightseeing in Budapest. Outdoor spas, thermal baths, and riverside cafรฉs are still in full swing.
- Austria offers golden autumn landscapes and classical charm. Vienna and Salzburg host cultural festivals, and the Alps are a scenic escape before ski season begins.
November
Top Picks: Mexico, Oman, Cambodia, the Caribbean, Antarctica, Malaysia (West Coast), France, England
Why:
- Mexico is warm, dry, and culturally vibrant. Day of the Dead celebrations kick off the month, and beach towns like Oaxaca, Tulum, and Puerto Escondido are ideal.
- Oman offers clear skies and moderate temperatures, making it perfect for desert adventures, mountain escapes, and coastal drives.
- Cambodia enters its dry season. Angkor Wat is at its best, with lush green surroundings from recent rains but more stable weather.
- The Caribbean is emerging from hurricane season, with warm seas and festive vibes. Consider Barbados, St Lucia, or the Bahamas.
- Antarctica sees the return of expedition cruises. Wildlife is abundant, and ice conditions are good for landings and photography.
- Malaysia (West Coast) enjoys dry weather, making it the best time to visit Langkawi, Penang, and Kuala Lumpur. Cultural festivals and food markets are in full swing.
- France is peaceful in November. Paris is atmospheric and cosy, and the wine regions are quieter, perfect for relaxed tastings.
- England has a crisp autumn feel with fewer tourists. Londonโs festive lights begin appearing, and places like the Cotswolds and Bath are ideal for a quiet pre-Christmas escape.
December
Top Picks: Germany, Austria, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden, London, France
Why:
- Germany is magical in December, with world-famous Christmas markets in cities like Munich, Nuremberg, and Cologne. Expect mulled wine, handmade gifts, and festive charm.
- Austria is equally festive, especially in Vienna and Salzburg where traditional markets, choirs, and snowy backdrops make for an unforgettable holiday experience.
- New Zealand kicks off summer. Itโs a great time for outdoor adventure, coastal drives, and festive season travel that feels totally different from the northern hemisphere.
- South Africa is warm and sunny. The Garden Route, Cape Town, and safari lodges are at their best, making it ideal for those escaping winter.
- Sweden embraces the spirit of winter. Expect snowy landscapes, cosy cafรฉs, Christmas markets, and traditional St. Lucia Day celebrations.
- London lights up with world-class decorations, ice skating rinks, West End shows, and shopping. Itโs a bucket-list city for December travel.
- France offers festive experiences from Paris to Strasbourg, where some of Europeโs oldest Christmas markets are held. Enjoy twinkling lights, vin chaud, and Christmas treats.
Wherever and whenever you go, there’s a destination perfect for the season. Use this month-by-month guide to match your travel style, budget, and interests to the time of year โ and donโt forget to grab our free Global Trip Planning Workbook to get started!
