Did you know, January is a great month to go on holiday? Winter has settled over the northern hemisphere, so many countries are quieter and Europe and North America are dazzling winter wonderlands. And if you want to chase the sun and buzz of the holiday season, Southeast Asia, Central America, and South America are at their best.
But the world is big and the possibilities are endless, so read on to discover which country is the right one for your holiday!
Popular High Season Destinations in January
England, United Kingdom
January is a popular time to visit England because travellers can enjoy fewer crowds, winter sales and excellent indoor attractions. Cities such as London, Liverpool and Manchester remain lively with museums, theatres and football matches, making England ideal for a cosy winter escape.
The Netherlands
The Netherlands is worth visiting in January for its peaceful streets, cosy cafés and picturesque winter scenery. Wander beside Amsterdam’s canals, explore charming historic cities or venture into the countryside to see traditional windmills and storybook villages without the peak-season crowds.
Germany
Germany is an enchanting winter destination thanks to its snowy scenery, romantic castles and historic towns. Visit one of the oldest Christmas markets in Nuremberg, or follow Bavaria’s Romantic Road through picturesque villages and fairytale landscapes.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in January
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in January
Ireland
January is a quieter and more affordable time to experience Ireland, with fewer crowds, attractive travel offers and many free natural sights. Take a scenic road trip along the rugged coast, explore historic towns or warm up in a traditional Irish pub after a day outdoors.
Italy
January offers a quieter and more affordable way to experience Italy, with fewer crowds, seasonal offers and easier access to famous attractions. From magnificent inner-city architecture to comforting regional cuisine, Italy delivers a memorable winter escape without the busy summer rush.
Switzerland
January transforms Switzerland into a spectacular winter destination, with snow-covered mountains, medieval towns and postcard-perfect villages. Save by planning ahead, using efficient public transport and enjoying scenic walks and viewpoints that cost little or nothing. Experience culinary delights in Zürich, discover culture in Geneva or explore a charming Alpine village.
Events in January
Events in January
The netherlands
The Netherlands – Amsterdam Light Festival
The Amsterdam Light Festival is an annual light art festival that transforms the city into a glowing dreamland of bright lights and vibrant colours. A cruise along the famous canals or a meander through the historic streets are the best ways to see the light installations and the city.
1-10°C daytime temperatures
The last Sunday before Ash Wednesday
Amsterdam
Croatia
Croatia – Rijeka Carnival
Rijeka Carnival is an annual celebration that marks the end of the festive season leading up to Lent. To the pagans it represented redemption from immoral behaviour and a cleansing of bad luck and evil spirits. Today, it is the biggest carnival in Croatia and the last hoedown before fasting begins.
3-9°C daytime temperatures
17 January-14 February (dates may change)
Rijeka
Scotland
Scotland – Up Helly Aa
Up Helly Aa is a celebration of Viking history and local traditions that has been happening in Shetland since the 1880s. It is a truly Scottish celebration that unfolds in a series of marches through the streets, visitations and parties, and torch-lit processions that culminate in the burning of a galley.
1-6°C daytime temperatures
The last Tuesday in January
Lerwick
Perfect Beach Weather Destinations in January
Perfect Beach Weather Destinations in JanuaryThere are no European destinations that have perfect beach weather temperatures in January. Check the other continents or scroll down to Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations to check for European countries that are affordable in January.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in October to get great discounts on your January trip! Not ready to travel in January? Book your trip in January and travel in April to get the best deals!
Popular High Season Destinations in January
Zimbabwe
Make your way to Zimbabwe to experience the lush natural beauty of its landscapes, friendly vibe of its people, and magic of its precious cultural gems. Even during the rainy season, Zimbabwe is a place where the sun always seems to be shining.
Namibia
January brings hot summer weather, occasional afternoon thunderstorms and fewer visitors to Namibia. The rains transform parts of the landscape with fresh greenery and dramatic skies, while the country’s deserts, national parks and hiking trails offer plenty of adventure.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in January
Zambia
January’s summer rains transform Zambia into a lush green destination filled with dramatic scenery, migratory birds and newborn wildlife. Selected safari camps remain open with fewer visitors and attractive seasonal rates, while Lusaka offers restaurants, markets and lively city experiences.
Mauritius
January is warm, tropical and lively in Mauritius, making it ideal for swimming, beach days and water activities. Expect humid weather with sunny spells, refreshing rainfall and occasional tropical storms. Sip cocktails in Flic en Flac or Grand Baie and sample coconut water, Victoria pineapples and local gajak.
Events in January
South Africa
South Africa – Kaapse Klopse
The Kaapse Klopse (or Cape Town Minstrel Carnival) is an annual festival that sees thousands of minstrels marching through the streets of Cape Town a blaze of colour and music. The festival has roots stretching back to the time of slavery and is a celebration of liberation, self-expression, and tradition.
16-26°C daytime temperatures
21 January
Cape Town
Mauritius
Mauritius – Thaipoosam Cavadee
The Thaipoosam Cavadee festival is one of the most interesting religious festivals in Mauritius. It is a Hindu celebration that originated in Southern India and involves body piercing and bamboo cavadees decorated with bells, flowers, coconuts, peacock feathers, banana leaves, and icons of Lord Muruga.
22-29°C daytime temperatures
21 January
All over the island
Benin
Benin – Ouidah Voodoo Festival
The Ouidah Voodoo Festival will take you on a journey through history and the voodoo culture for which Benin is so well known. A feticheur (a sort of wizard / witch doctor) leads a procession along the old slave road to the beach, where the festival is celebrated with ceremonial drums, rituals, and performances.
24-32°C daytime temperatures
10 January
Ouidah
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Mauritius
Mauritius is famous for its exquisite beaches and temperatures of 29°C. Grand Baie is the most famous and perfect for swimming or anchoring down with a catamaran. Flic en Flac and Trou Aux Biches boast some of the best diving spots around the island. Pereybere will appeal to snorkellers. Île aux Cerfs is popular amongst boating enthusiasts and parasailers. Le Morne and Belle Mare Plage have the perfect conditions for kitesurfing and sailing. And Blue Bay is superb for an array of water sports.
Namibia
The beaches of Namibia are a surreal sight to behold and a paradise for sun chasers with temperatures of 31°C. Although the beaches are not ideal for a casual swim, the strong swells are a dream come true for daring surfers and kite surfers. Swakopmund and Walvis Bay are hotspots along the Namibian coast and it is not uncommon to see thrill seekers riding the waves. Lüderitz also gets quite windy and is another great spot for kite surfers to chase the powerful swell of the Atlantic Ocean.
Malawi
It may not have traditional beaches, but for many, Lake Malawi has everything you need for a great waterside holiday. Secluded coves with soft sand are excellent for sunbathing and soaking up the East African sun, clear water teeming with colourful fish is fantastic for swimming and snorkelling, the vast calm surface is the perfect playground for sailing and kayaking, and temperatures reach 31°C. Head to Cape Maclear, Mumbo Island, Likoma Island, or Mangochi Lakeshore for the best beaches.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in October to get great discounts on your January trip! Not ready to travel in January? Book your trip in January and travel in April to get the best deals!
Popular High Season Destinations in January
Thailand
Explore this Southeast Asian country which is famous for its secret beaches, exotic street food, and unforgettable energy. Visit Bangkok for mind bending nightlife, Chiang Mai for temples, or Phuket and Koh Samui for unreal island hopping.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in January
Qatar
January is one of the best times to visit Qatar, with mild weather that is ideal for sightseeing, desert adventures and dining outdoors. Explore the striking skyline of Doha, wander through traditional markets and discover a captivating blend of Arabian heritage and modern luxury.
Indonesia
January reveals Indonesia at its greenest, with tropical landscapes, warm temperatures and fewer visitors at many popular attractions. Although it falls within the rainy season, showers are often followed by sunshine, leaving plenty of time to explore ancient temples, lively cities and beautiful beaches.
Events in January
Japan
Japan – Wakakusa Yamayaki
The Wakakusa Yamayaki Festival celebrates a strange tradition that dates back to the 18th century. Every year, just after the dusk, the side of Mount Wakakusa is set alight and allowed to spread across the mountainside. The exact origins of the festival are a mystery, but it is a terrific sight to behold.
1-9°C daytime temperatures
The fourth Saturday in January
Nara City
Australia
Australia – Sydney Festival
The Sydney Festival is a major summer arts event that celebrates big ideas and cutting-edge art and performance. It is a massive three-week long event that transforms the city into a cultural wonderland with music, theatre, dance, circus, visual arts, opera, and family-friendly events.
19-26°C daytime temperatures
The second week of January
Sydney
Philippines
Philippines – Sinulog Festival
The Sinulog Festival is one of the grandest and most colourful events in the Philippines. Locals dress up in bright costumes and dance in the streets to drums, trumpets, and native gongs to remember their pagan past and acceptance of Christianity. The festival draws local and foreign tourists from far and wide.
24-30°C daytime temperatures
20 January
Cebu City
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Australia
It is no secret that Australia has amazing beaches. Bondi Beach in Sydney is a hotspot for sunbathing. Lizard Island off the coast of Queensland is popular amongst snorkellers. Mandalay Beach in Western Australia and Burleigh Heads Beach on the Gold Coast are excellent for surfing. Wineglass Bay in Tasmania lures snorkellers and kayakers. Noosa Main Beach on the Sunshine Coast is great for swimming. And Cable Beach in Broome and Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island are the most beautiful.
Maldives
The Maldives is a place that dreams are made of. Almost 2,000 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean with temperatures of 29°C, warm tropical waters, coconut palms, and endless white silky beaches. And although there are a few public beaches, the most beautiful ones are on the private resorts islands. These are Cocoa Island and Velassaru Island in the Malé Atoll, Halaveli Island and Rangali Island in the Ari Atoll, Kunfunadhoo in the Baa Atoll, and Huvafen Fushi Island in the Faafu Atoll.
The Philippines
With temperatures of 30°C and over 7,000 islands to choose from, the Philippines is an island-hopping paradise and beach bum heaven. Some are covered in rainforests, some are home to volcanoes, some are uninhabited, and some have beaches so beautiful you will swear you are dreaming. The best beaches in the Philippines are El Nido on Palawan, Puka Shell and White Beach on Boracay, Puerto Galera in Oriental Mindoro, Samal Island, Panglao Island, Coron Island, Palaui Island, and Mactan Island.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in October to get great discounts on your January trip! Not ready to travel in January? Book your trip in January and travel in April to get the best deals!
Popular High Season Destinations in January
USA
The United States is a vast and varied place where anything is possible. From legendary cities such as New York City and Las Vegas to iconic holiday destinations such as Orlando and Honolulu the United States will take you on the trip of a lifetime.
Canada
Canada has so much to offer and then some, even when the snow is falling. Witness the majestic natural beauty of Canada in Grande Prairie and Thunder Bay or stick to the humming cities of Toronto and Vancouver if you prefer the bustle of the city.
The Dominican Republic
January is one of the best times to visit the Dominican Republic, with warm sunshine, lower humidity and less rainfall. Spend your days relaxing on Caribbean beaches, admiring the historic architecture of Santo Domingo or enjoying the country’s energetic nightlife.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in January
Mexico
Mexico offers warm coastal sunshine, mild city weather and generally dry conditions, making it ideal for sightseeing and beach holidays. Spend your days exploring mystical Maya ruins and the beaches of Cancún, then enjoy mariachi music and margaritas in Mexico City.
Panama
Panama’s warm weather and dry-season sunshine attract beach lovers, adventure seekers and history enthusiasts. Discover secluded islands, explore lush tropical landscapes or soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Panama City while enjoying excellent conditions for outdoor adventures.
Curaçao
Curaçao combines warm sunshine, cooling trade winds and colourful Dutch-Caribbean heritage. Explore historic Willemstad, relax beside the turquoise water at Grote Knip or discover the island’s vibrant street art, museums and local music.
Events in January
United States
United States – Havasu Balloon Festival
The Havasu Balloon Festival is a wonderful little festival that is centered around hot air balloons. Fulfill your bucket list dream of going on a hot air balloon ride, watch hundreds of hot air balloons float into the early morning sky, or wait for the sun to go down to witness the spectacular Night Glow.
6-19°C daytime temperatures
10-13 January (dates may change)
Lake Havasu City
Bahamas
Bahamas – Junkanoo
Junkanoo is a national festival that is celebrated across the Bahamas on the 26 December and 1 January. It is a wild and colourful street party of elaborate costumes, hypnotic music, and spirited dancing. Junkanoo is known as one of the most entertaining street carnivals in the world.
18-26°C daytime temperatures
1 January
Nassau
Panama
Panama – Panama Jazz Festival
The Panama Jazz Festival is a musical extravaganza that brings together internationally-acclaimed musicians and devoted jazz fans for a week of soulful jazz in Central America. The festival draws huge crowds every year and is one of the major highlights on the Panamanian calendar.
24-32°C daytime temperatures
14-19 January
Panama City
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic has some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean. Whether you want a relaxing holiday in a 5-star resort, a vacation filled with adventure, or you want to escape it all, Dominican Republic has it all.Bávaro Beach and Playa Grande were made for resort lovers, Playa Rincón and Playa Doradaare great for swimming and sun seekers, Cayo Levantado is for adults only Bahia de Las Aguilas is an undiscovered gem, and Galerasis perfect for living out your castaway dream.
The Bahamas
The Bahamas is the original Caribbean paradise. Glittering turquoise ocean surrounds gorgeous islands with pure white beaches that are as soft as silk beneath your feet. And temperatures of 25°C offer the perfect warm weather for unforgettable beach days. If you want to experience the best of the Bahamas beaches be sure to visit these beaches: Gold Rock Beach, Cabbage Beach, Rose Island, Pink Sand Beach, Radio Beach, Pig Beach, Surfer’s Beach, Dean’s Blue Hole, Guana Cay, and Tahiti Beach.
Cayman Islands
Basking in the heart of the Caribbean Sea, the Cayman Islands were made for beach holidays. Spend your afternoons swimming beside graceful manta rays and tropical fish, anchor down with a catamaran and enjoy the easygoing rhythm of paradise and temperatures of 29°C, or stroll along the endless white beaches in search of coconuts and seashells. The most beautiful beaches are Seven Mile Beach, Cayman Kai, Rum Point, Sandy Point, Smith Cove, Owen Island, East End Beach, and Smith Barcadere.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in October to get great discounts on your January trip! Not ready to travel in January? Book your trip in January and travel in April to get the best deals!
Popular High Season Destinations in January
Brazil
Brazil is a dream destination for many travellers. It is home to incredible natural landscapes, unique experiences, vibrant cities, and a culture that has captured the imagination of the world. A trip to Brazil will be your greatest love affair.
Argentina
Argentina is all about the good life. Famous for its spectacular landscapes, fantastic wine, delicious local cuisine, and lively nightlife, it is the holiday of a lifetime for food lovers and travellers wanting a dose of South American culture.
Popular Budget-Friendly Destinations in January
Chile
A narrow strip on the edge of South America, Chile is a country of immense natural beauty. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find heaven on earth in Patagonia, while foodies will be delighted by Chilean street food and cuisine in Santiago.
Events in January
Colombia
Colombia – Blacks and Whites Carnival
The Blacks and Whites Carnival celebrates the coming together of different cultures and is the most famous festival in Colombia. Each day follows a different theme that honours its cultural diversity, but each is just as flamboyant and jubilant as the next, making for one truly unforgettable experience.
9-17°C daytime temperatures
2-7 January
Pasto
Chile
Chile – Santiago a Mil International Festival
The Santiago a Mil Festival is an annual performing arts festival that happens in the capital city, Santiago. It is the largest arts festival in Chile and features dozens of spellbinding theatre performances and dance and music shows in some of the most beautiful and unusual settings in the city.
12-30°C daytime temperatures
3-21 January
Santiago
Bolivia
Bolivia – Achocalla Festival
The Achocalla Festival is a charming little festival that offers a rare glimpse into Bolivian folklore. Each year, when the potato fields begin to bloom, locals come together to ask the Andean fertility goddess, Pachamama, for rain and plentiful crops by performing a traditional dance known as the tarqueada.
7-17°C daytime temperatures
First week of January
La Paz
Popular Destinations with Perfect Beach Weather
Colombia
Colombia is home to a sensational collection of beaches that will steal your heart with their Latin American charm. Capurganá and Sapzurro are stretches of coastline that are playgrounds for snorkellers and divers. Playa Blanca on Isla de Barú is the perfect little beach for lazing on a sun lounger with a sweet cocada. The beaches around Tayrona National Park are wild and exotic. And Playas de Providencia and Playas de Palomino are great for enjoying the sun and hanging out with the locals.
Uruguay
Uruguay may not come to mind when you think of beaches, but that’s the beauty of it. The crowds have not discovered that Uruguay is hiding some of the most sublime beaches in South America, so it will just be you and the endless stretches of soft sand. Playa Ramírez and Playa de los Pocitos in Montevideo are two of the prettiest beaches in Uruguay. Punta del Este is a hotspot for party goers. Playa Chihuahua is a nudist beach. And Punta del Diablo has a rustic atmosphere that is irresistible.
Venezuela
Perched on the edge of South America with beaches overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Venezuela is the beach heaven you never knew about. Margarita Island is nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Caribbean’ thanks to its picturesque beaches and is a renowned surfing destination. Playa Grande Beach, Playa Colorada, Puerto Piritu, and El Playon Beach are breathtakingly beautiful. The beaches in Henry Pittier National Park are great for romantic getaways. And Adicora Beach delights water sport enthusiasts.
When travelling, remember to book 3 months in advance to get the best deals.
Book in October to get great discounts on your January trip! Not ready to travel in January? Book your trip in January and travel in April to get the best deals!
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