The best places to travel in January

Keen to kick off the year in unforgettable style? Keep reading. Covering everything from idyllic Caribbean islands, to exhilarating adventure hotspots and awe-inspiring closer-to-home destinations in the US, here we share some of the best places to travel in January, along with recommended places to stay.

1. St Kitts and Nevis, Lesser Antilles

Why visit: blissful beaches and Caribbean culture and history
Temperature: 22°C-27°C (72°F-81°F)
Average daily budget: $250+

If beating the winter blues is top of your vacation wish-list, here’s why St Kitts and Nevis is one of the best places to travel in January.

First up, this dual-island Caribbean nation delivers laidback beach life, history and opportunities to enjoy all-out luxury in equal measure, as exemplified by Basseterre, St Kitts’ historic capital.

Enclosed by mountains and emerald hills on the southwest coast, Basseterre’s picture-perfect port boasts a bounty of boutiques and stalls selling local arts and crafts. It’s also home to the National Museum of St Kitts and a chocolate factory.

Outside town, St Kitts’ Brimstone Hill Fortress — a UNESCO World Heritage Site, no less — is one of the best-preserved forts of its era throughout the Americas. 

To see more of the island, you’ll want to hop aboard the heritage Scenic Railway. Traversing lush rainforest, it offers incredible views of Mount Liamuiga and neighbouring islands.

Talking of which, two miles south of its bigger sister, Nevis has a charming, understated vibe that's long been beloved by celebrities looking for tropical tranquillity. 

That said, there are plenty of affordable places to stay, and it's home to some truly beautiful beaches, among them Pinney’s, Oualie and Lover’s Beach. 

If you’re feeling more energetic, you could always hike to the top of Nevis Peak.

Where to stay: we adore Oualie Beach Resort, Nevis for its cute beach cabins backed by lush gardens. 

Looking for all-out luxury? Take a look at Montpelier Plantation & Beach, Nevis. 

2. Antarctica

Why visit: bucket list adventure and extraordinary wildlife
Temperature: -10°C--2°C (14°F-28°F)
Average daily budget: $300-$400

And now for something totally different — Antarctica. One of the warmest times of year around these parts, January also offers around 20 hours of summer sunlight.

Long hours of light means extended wildlife-watching stints during a month that’s also the best time to see penguin chicks at play. They're just beginning to find their happy feet at this time of year.

January and February are also especially great for cetacean-sightings.

Editor’s tip: as you'll most likely board your boat to Antarctica from Ushuaia — the world's most southerly city — we recommend booking a guided trip to walk Tierra del Fuego’s nature trails before heading off. The Emerald Lagoon is something else. 

And, to take the hassle out of planning, explore our customisable Southern Argentina and Antarctica itinerary.

Where to stay: for rustic charm in Ushuaia, try Cabañas Bosque Del Faldeo. 

Or, if you’re looking for a little luxury, check out Hotel Canal Beagle. It’s smart, modern and has a wellness spa.

3. Palm Springs, California

Why visit: movies, mild weather, adventure and relaxation
Temperature: 8°C-22°C (46°F-72°F)
Average daily budget: $250-$350

Warm weather, hot springs and a whole lot of world-class movies to chill-out to. It’s clear why Palm Springs, California, is one of our best places to travel in January, especially for folks who want a vacation that delivers a breadth of experiences.

For example, with Palm Springs International Film Festival playing out through the first week of January, it's a fine time to mix culture and adventure. 

By day, you could hike in the likes of the Indian Canyons, Joshua Tree National Park and the San Jacinto Mountains. Come dusk, watch cool movies, or relax in a hot tub under stars and palm trees, preferably with a margarita in hand.

While in town, we also recommend taking a mid-century modern architecture tour and indulging in high-end shopping and dining, 

Where to stay: for laidback style and plenty of charm, try Alcazar Palm Springs or Les Cactus.

4. Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica

Why visit: winter sun, water-sports and outdoor adventures
Temperature: 21°C-34°C (70°F- 93°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$300

Located on Costa Rica’s north Pacific coast in the province of Guanacaste, Papagayo boasts a bounty of beautiful beaches, many of which fall within the purpose-built development of high-end resorts that comprise the Papagayo Peninsula.

Most resorts — many of which are located on some of the best beaches in Guanacaste — offer kayaks, paddle-boards, and snorkelling and diving trips.

Part of the dry season, the weather in Costa Rica in January, is also ideal for visiting the Peninsula Papagayoto access nearby natural attractions and outdoor activities. 

As detailed in our guide to the best Guanacaste tours, you can take your pick from ziplining the forest canopy, watching wildlife on a hanging bridges tour, and surfing and seeing turtles in Tamarindo.

Editor’s tip: into outdoor adventures but also want a beach vacation? You might just love our customisable Costa Rica trip that takes you from cloud forest to beach.

Where to stay: for five-star luxury, try the all-inclusive Secrets Papagayo, which offers elegantly furnished rooms and bungalows, several restaurants and bars, and a spa.  

Into surfing? Check-out accommodation around Playa Hermosa — there are options for all budgets and tastes.

Looking for more ideas for an unforgettable trip to Costa Rica? Explore our range of 7-day itineraries in Costa Rica.

5. Val d'Isere, France

Why visit: skiing in style and fine dining
Temperature: -8°C--2°C (17°F-28°F)
Average daily budget: $300+

Alongside being celebrated for its scenic off-piste terrain and Olympic downhills, the world-famous ski resort of Val d'Isere in the French Alps has a rep for luxury. 

By which we mean ultra-chic hotels, gourmet restaurants overseen by Michelin-starred chefs, and superb spa facilities. 

So, if you’re not curtailed by budget and want to enjoy a no-expense-spared ski vacation in impossibly pretty surroundings, you’ll want to add of Val d'Isere to the top of your list.

Part of the Espace Killy ski area, it offers over 300km of pistes, reliable snowfall, and diverse terrain that’s suitable for all levels. What’s more, its high altitude ensures good snow conditions throughout the winter season, with skiing available up to 3456 meters.

As well as skiing and snowboarding, take the opportunity to chance to go ice climbing, snowshoeing, and sledding. And you won’t want to miss enjoying the lively après-ski scene, and indulging in a spa treatments.

Editor’s tip: for more ideas, read up on the best ski resorts in France. 

Not fixed on France? Discover the best skiing and snowboarding destinations around the world.

Where to stay: browse top places to stay in Val d'Isere, from the charming 3-star Maison de Famille, to the 5-star finery of Chalet Skadi.

Looking for vacation ideas in France? Check out our 7-day France itinerary - you might like it!

6. Phoenix, Arizona

Why visit: outdoor exploration, epic day trips and art
Temperature: 7°C-20°C (45°F-68°F)
Average daily budget: $150+

Offering pleasantly mild temperatures, January is a top time to explore Phoenix, Arizona, without the intense heat of the summer months.

A great base for day trips to attractions like Sedona, Tucson and the Grand Canyon, lovers of the epic outdoors will want to make time for Camelback Mountain, South Mountain Park, and the Phoenix Mountain Preserve.

Elsewhere, the beautiful Desert Botanical Garden arguably looks at its most magical during winter, thanks to the way the seasonal light accentuates the Sonoran Desert.

When it comes to cultural activities, January sees Phoenix host the Arizona Fine Art Expo, and the city’s not short of museums either, from the the Phoenix Art Museum, to the Heard Museum that showcases Native American art and culture.

Inspired to visit? Get the Insight guide to Arizona and the Grand Canyon. 

Where to stay: The Camby Hotel is a great choice for travelers who want 5-star style and service, and mountain views.

For something more affordable, try the artsy Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix Convention Center.

7. Yucatán, Mexico

Why visit: ancient culture and amazing beaches
Temperature: 18°C-28°C (64°F-82°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

Offering gorgeous weather, Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula is one of our best places to travel in January for those who want to dip in and out of culture between taking dips in the ocean, and stretching out on beautiful beaches.

Given that January sees peak season crowds tail off as the month wears on, it’s a good time to explore unique archaeological sites like Chichen Itza, Uxmal and Ek Balam, with Tulum showcasing UNESCO World Heritage Site magic and an incredible coastline at one fell swoop.

Love nature? Be sure to visit the region’s biosphere reserves and wildlife sanctuaries — among them Celestun and Rio Lagartos — to see flamingos, crocodiles, and stacks of other wildlife.

Editor’s tip: to experience the Yucatán in rewarding — and hassle-free — style, book our customisable self-drive Gems of Yucatan itinerary.

Where to stay: our local Mexico experts swear by Pacha in Tulum. Though centrally located, it's blissfully serene.

To stay in style near the archaeological site, try Hacienda Chichen Resort and Yaxkin Spa.

Rough Guides tip: Find tons of ideas for your Mexican adventure in our guide to the best vacation spots in Mexico.

8. Porto, Portugal

Why visit: food, wine and culture in mild, quiet conditions
Temperature: 5°C- 14°C (41°F-57°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$180

Easy to combine with other European destinations, visiting Porto, Portugal, in January comes especially recommended for travelers who are keen to enjoy fine food, wine and cultural experience in quiet low-season conditions. 

Offering pretty mild temperatures in January — and low prices — January is a great time to visit the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia for tastings and tours.

Note that the riverfront area of Vila Nova de Gaia offers stunning views of Porto’s skyline, and opportunities to take boat tours.

We also suggest taking a trip to the Douro Valley. Famed for its wine production and stunning landscapes, you could enjoy a leisurely river cruise that stops off at vineyards.

Back in town, Porto’s historic riverside Ribeira District district is a UNESCO World Heritage Site of narrow, winding streets, colorful buildings, and plenty of scenic places to dine.

Editor’s tip: want to enjoy the best of Portugal? We have an itinerary that covers exactly that. 

Where to stay: located on Porto's medieval walls, the 4-star Pestana Vintage Porto is elegant and stunningly sited. Or, for good-value accommodation in Vila Nova de Gaia, try the cosy ClipHotel.

For more accommodation ideas, read our guide to the best places to stay in Porto.

9. Andaman Islands, India

Why visit: idyllic island living and world-class diving 
Temperature: 23°C-29°C (73°F-84°F)
Average daily budget: $90-$180

For the ultimate tropical escape in January, the Andaman Islands take some beating.

A far-flung string of pearls located over a thousand kilometres out in the Bay of Bengal, this idyllic archipelago is unlike anywhere else in India. 

Home to some of India’s most stunning beaches and exceptional diving sites, the islands still receive relatively low visitor numbers.

Havelock is the prime tourist destination — a 12km-long paradise of rolling forests, lush farmland, and white-sand beaches.

For the ultimate laidback escape, consider visiting Little Andaman. The southernmost island of the group, it’s actually quite large, with much of the island reserved for the Onge tribe.

Editor’s tip: take a cruise to explore the fifteen islets of the Mahatma Gandhi National Marine Park.

Where to stay: heading to Havelock? Check out Sea Shell Resort & Spa. We also rate Blue Lagoon Resort on Havelock’s little sister.

10. Montreal, Canada

Why visit: winter festivals, winter sports and sublime winter scenery
Temperature: -14°C- -5°C (7°F-23°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$250

One of the main reasons Montreal made it into our round-up of the best places to travel in January is its annual Igloofest. 

Held over several weekends in January and February, this massive outdoor electronic music attracts festival top DJs to its unique winter party atmosphere.

For something more sedate, but every bit as fun, the family-friendly Fête des Neiges sees Parc Jean-Drapeau transformed into a winter wonderland of ice slides, snow sculptures, and winter sports activities.

On that subject, you could also go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing in Mont-Royal Park, and also get to enjoy sublime views of the city when its French château architecture is frosted with snow.

When you need to warm up, tuck into hearty Quebecois cuisine such as poutine, tourtière (meat pie), and maple syrup treats, or enjoy a Nordic-style spa.

Where to stay: located across two historic buildings, William Gray by Gray Collection exudes understated modern style from a great location.

For a great-value option, we rate Auberge Saintlo Montréal Hostel.

11. Jamaica, Great Antilles

Why visit: a feast of festivals and island chilling
Temperature: 22°C- 28°C (72°F-82°F)
Average daily budget: $100-$200

With no shortage of flights from multiple US cities to Kingston, Montego Bay and Ocho Rios, Jamaica is a great place to travel in January if you’re in need of sunshine, and love music.

This month sees the island host the Rebel Salute reggae festival in St Ann’s, with Peter’s Players Winterfest delivering blues and rock’n’roll.

Meanwhile, if you love uncovering culture during your vacations, January is the time to visit for the Accompong Maroon Festival, which celebrates the culture and heritage of the Maroon people through music, dancing and storytelling. 

Then there’s all those beautiful beaches, from Seven Mile Beach in Negril, Montego Bay’s Doctor's Cave Beach, and Frenchman’s Cove in Port Antonio.

Wherever you choose to base yourself, you won’t be far from natural attractions, either. 

For example, you could raft the Rio Grande and Blue Mountains from Port Antonio, visit Dunn’s River Falls and Konoko Falls from Ocho Rio, and explore Rocklands Bird Sanctuary from Montego Bay.

Where to stay: formerly the haunt of British royalty and Hollywood stars, Port Antonio’s Frenchman’s Cove comes personally recommended.

Or, if you want to stay in a stunning, less-visited area of the island, we rate Jake’s Hotel in  Sre Beach.

12. Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Why visit: warm weather, epic landscapes and beautiful beaches
Temperature: 14°C-20°C (57°F-68°F)
Average daily budget: $140-$250 

For a very different winter-sun landscape, consider visiting Lanzarote in the Spanish Canary Islands in January.

While temperatures won’t be super-hot, they will be mild-to-warm during a low season month that’s ideal for hiking, cycling the island’s captivating coastal paths and volcanic trails.

If exploring the great outdoors is top of your mind, don’t miss Timanfaya National Park with its dramatic volcanic scenery and geothermal demonstrations, and Cueva de los Verdes.

Another notable feature of Lanzarote is the distinct and stylish stamp left on the island by visionary architect César Manrique.

To see the magical side of Manrique’s vision, head to Jameos del Agua to experience a fantastical journey through a gorgeous volcanic grotto.

When it comes to beaches, Lanzarote’s best include Playa Blanca, Papagayo Beach and Famara Beach.

Editor’s tip: keen to visit? Get yourself The Mini Rough Guide to Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.

Where to stay: coming for the beaches? Try Apartamentos Acuario Sol, a smart and well-equipped apartment complex in the centre of the resort of Puerto del Carmen resort area 

Or, for a boutique stay with mountain views, take a look at Hotelito Rural Flor de Timanfaya.

13. Potosí, Bolivia

Why visit: culture and history in the world’s highest city
Temperature: 4°C-14°C (39°F-57°F)
Average daily budget: $50-$100

At 4090m above sea level, Potosí, Bolivia, is the highest city in the world. And, thanks to its silver mining industry, Potosí — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — also used to be one of the world’s wealthiest cities.

A (literal) highpoint of staying here is visiting Cerro Rico (Rich Hill), a mountain that’s renowned for its silver mines, with tours offering a glimpse into  the working conditions of the miners.

Potosí is also loaded with colonial art and architecture, especially historic churches  — think baroque grandeur replete with impossibly intricate carvings in the likes of San Lorenzo Church.

Editor’s tip: going it alone? You'll want to read up on how to get to Bolivia. Alternatively, cut out the hassle of planning your own trip by booking one of our customisable Bolivia itineraries.

For example, our Highlights of Bolivia trip includes La Paz, a day tour of Lake Titicaca, and a whole lot more.

Where to stay: for a great central location try Hostal Colonial Potosi. On a budget? Consider Los Faroles Hostal.

14. Gold Coast, Australia

Why visit: incredible beaches, outstanding surf and awesome national parks
Temperature: 21°C-28°C (70°F-82°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$300

Located in Queensland, south of Brisbane in eastern Australia, the glorious Gold Coast boasts over 70km of coastline that includes iconic beaches like Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

Beyond its beaches, the Gold Coast is bordered by lush hinterland, including Lamington National Park and Springbrook National Park. Offering stunning scenery speckled by waterfalls and hiking trails, the summer month of January is a wonderful time to walk them.

While here, don't miss the chance to explore the local thriving cultural scene, with art galleries, theaters, and music venues.

Fancy exploring the whole of Australia’s east coast on an epic road trip? Read our run-down of the Melbourne — Sydney portion, discover what to do on the Brisbane — Cairns leg, and here’s what to see along the Sydney to Brisbane segment.

Where to stay: chances are, your Gold Coast vacation will kick off in Brisbane. While here, for 5-star luxury, book a stay in the Emporium Hotel South Bank.

On a budget? For great-value quality accommodation (and an awesome rooftop bar), YHA Brisbane City can’t be beaten.

15. Solu-Khumbu, Nepal

Why visit: epic treks and scenery
Temperature: -10°C-1°C (14°F-30°F)
Average daily budget: $50-$100

Offering skies that enhance views of the Himalayan peaks, visiting Solu-Khumbu, Nepal, in January is something else.

As this month also falls within the off-peak trekking season, trails and teahouses will be less crowded at a time that offers unique winter experiences, courtesy of the Khumbu region being covered in snow, with its frozen lakes adding to the enchantment.

The winter season may well also offer unique wildlife sightings as animals descend to come lower altitudes. 

We also recommend factoring in time to engage with Sherpa culture, and visiting monasteries, such as Tengboche, Pangboche, and Thame.

Editor’s tip: if planning this kind of trip sounds a little daunting, book our customisable Himalayan Adventure itinerary.

Or, if you’re into culture, see our itinerary that focuses on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Nepal.

Where to stay: if you're spending time in Kathmandu before heading off on your trekking adventures, consider staying in Hotel Yak & Yeti. It's housed in a heritage palace in central Kathmandu.

Meanwhile, Scared Valley Boutique Hotel punches above its mid-price weight.

16. Gujarat, India

Why visit: a feast of festivals, unique wildlife and ancient culture
Temperature: 12°C- 28°C (54°F-82°F)
Average daily budget: $50-$100

Offering pleasantly mild weather and incredible festivals, January is an ideal time to visit Gujarat, India.

Held across 100+ days from November through to February, the Rann Utsav festival celebrates the natural of the White Desert and the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Kutch. 

Expect to enjoy traditional music, dance, crafts and cuisine against the backdrop of the white salt desert.

More natural wonders await in Velavadar Blackbuck National Park, the Marine National Park in the Gulf of Kutch, and Gir National Park — the only place in the world where Asiatic lions can be seen in the wild.

Gujarat also is rich in history and culture, and boasts a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, among them the Historic City of Ahmedabad, and Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park.

If that wasn’t enough, Gujarat hosts its International Kite Festival on 14th January. Marking the transition from winter to summer, it sees Ahmedabad celebrate in style in the weeks leading up to the main event.

Editor’s tip: always wanted to visit India? Take inspiration from our customisable India itineraries.

Where to stay: Ahmedabad’s 4-star Cambay Grand lives up to its name, while Plenteous Inn offers good value for money.

17. Pacific Coast, Panama

Why visit: water-sports, whales and wellness
Temperature: 23°C- 32°C (73°F-90°F)
Average daily budget: $90-$180

Being part of the dry season, traveling to Panama in January means hot, sunny weather that’s ideal for making the most of the Pacific Coast’s outstanding beaches, underwater marvels and tropical terrain. 

Exploring Coiba National Park — a UNESCO-designated site known for its marine life, and excellent snorkelling scuba diving — is hands-down one of the best things to do in Panama.

We also suggest booking a whale-watching trip — January falls within the migration season, which sees humpbacks move through Panamanian waters. 

The Pacific coast is also renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, especially at Playa Venao and Cambutal, with Playa Venao, Playa Blanca and Santa Clara recommended for swimming, sunbathing and beach sports.

Coastal activities aside, Panama’s Pacific coast also offers opportunities to hike and go horseback riding in lush tropical landscapes.

Editor’s tip: want to see a rewarding range of Panama? Our Luxury Honeymoon itinerary covers Panama City and the Pacific Coast, and you don’t have to be on honeymoon to enjoy it. 

Where to stay: located on an almost-unhabited island, Boca Brava Lodge is excellent for immersion in nature. The same is true of Boca Chica Bay Eco Lodge.
 

18. Lake Tahoe, California

Why visit: winter wonderland sports and awe-inspiring scenery
Temperature: -8°C-6°C (18°F-43°F)
Average daily budget: $150-$250

Renowned for its exceptional ski resorts, California’s Lake Tahoe is one of the best places to travel in January for an exhilarating — and scenic — winter sports vacation.

Presenting opportunities to enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, snowmobiling and sledding, many operators also offer snow tubing for family-friendly fun, with spa facilities and hot tubs catering to adults.

The scenic beauty of Lake Tahoe also offers the picture-perfect backdrop for walks, with plenty of bars and restaurants to cozy up in after dark.

Where to stay: take a look at Bluelake Inn @ Heavenly Village, and Big Pines Mountain House.

19. Lake Como

Why visit: Italian enchantment and excellent food
Temperature: 0°C- 6°C (32°F-(43°F)
Average daily budget: $140-$300

Staying on the lake theme, if you’re looking to travel beyond the US in January, say hello to Italy’s lovely Lake Como.

Praised by the poet Wordsworth as being “a treasure which the earth keeps to itself”, visiting Lake Como in winter means you’ll get to experience this outstanding destination in more serene, off-season conditions, with the added enchantment of snow-capped mountains, and a festive vibe lingering into the new year.

While summertime activities like swimming and boating will be off the cards, come January you could take trips to the nearby Swiss Alps or Valtellina region to enjoy scenic winter sports.

Winter is also a wonderful time to savor hearty Italian cuisine in cozy restaurants — be sure to tuck into truffles and rich game stews.

Editor’s tip: love the sound of the Italian lakes? You might just fall for our Enchanting Italian Lakes itinerary.

Where to stay: offering elegant villas and charming hotels, Bellagio is a great base from which to explore both the eastern and western shores of Lake Como.

Traveling to celebrate a special occasion? Browse accommodation in upscale Tremezzo.

Looking for more ideas for your trip? Explore our list of dream holiday destinations to suit any traveller.

20. Kauai, Hawaii

Why visit: nature and adventure
Temperature: 18°C- 26°C (65°F-78°F)
Average daily budget: $130-$250

Known as the “Garden Isle” of the Hawaiian islands, Kauai is mostly covered in tropical rainforest and, as a result, typically attracts hikers and nature-lovers.

Drama and adventure is what Kauai does best, as epitomised by the jaw-dropping pinnacles of the Na Pali Coast, which is often featured in action movies.

January's cooler weather is perfect for exploring Kauai's natural beauty on epic hikes, including the challenging Kalalau Trail along the Na Pali Coast, and trails in the Waimea Canyon State Park.

It’s also peak whale-watching season, and a good time to swim and snorkel the warm Pacific waters.

Editor’s tip: not sure which island is right for you? Read our beginners guide to the Hawaiian Islands. 

Where to stay: for a true taste of paradise, try The Lodge at Kukuiula 

Kapaa's oceanfront Kauai Shores Hotel is also dreamy, and loaded with top-class facilities.

Still undecided? You’ll find more ideas in our month-by-month guide to where to go when.

You might also want to make use of our trip ideas platform.