Best destinations to visit each month

Inspiring destinations for every month of the year

From snowy escapes to sun-soaked shores, there’s a perfect destination to discover every month of the year. Whether you’re chasing cultural festivals, ideal weather or fewer crowds, this month-by-month guide reveals the best places to travel – and when to go.

Snow-covered peaks and fjords of Norway’s Lofoten Islands glowing under the northern lights in January, the perfect winter destination for snowshoeing, igloo stays and Arctic scenery.

January – Norway

Best place to travel in January: Norway’s winter wonderland
Norway transforms into a fairytale landscape in January, with snow-covered fjords, frozen lakes and cosy alpine villages. Spend your days snowshoeing through the countryside, staying in an igloo hotel or soaking in a steaming hot tub under the stars. With luck, you’ll witness the dazzling northern lights – one of nature’s most breathtaking displays.

We recommended: This Norway Winter Wonderland small group tour offers a magical Arctic adventure — from husky sledding and glass-roof aurora cabins to exploring the Lofoten Islands, Tromsø and North Cape — all led by experienced local guides and capped at 24 travellers for a more personal journey.

February – Sri Lanka

Best place to visit in February: the sun-kissed island of Sri Lanka
With minimal rainfall and long, sunny days, February is perfect for exploring Sri Lanka’s golden coastlines, lush tea country and ancient temples. Wander the fort city of Galle, discover wildlife in Yala National Park or enjoy the cooler air of the central highlands. It’s an island adventure rich in warmth and colour.

Cherry blossoms in full bloom along a river in Kyoto, Japan, in March — the best time to visit for hanami festivals, temple gardens and spring scenery.

March – Japan

Best place to travel in March: Japan in full bloom
March signals the arrival of cherry blossom season, when Japan’s cities and parks are blanketed in soft pink petals. From Tokyo’s lively hanami (flower-viewing) parties to Kyoto’s serene gardens, the country comes alive with festivals and fresh energy. It’s also an ideal time for late-season skiing in the north.

April – Switzerland

Best place to visit in April: Switzerland in bloom
As the snow melts, Switzerland reveals its spring colours – alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers and lakeside towns buzzing with life. Ride the famous mountain railways, stroll the promenades of Lucerne or Montreux, and enjoy crisp air and stunning scenery with fewer crowds than summer.

May – The Five Stans

Best place to travel in May: Central Asia’s Silk Road nations
May brings clear skies and comfortable temperatures across Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan – the fabled Five Stans. Explore ancient Silk Road cities, mountain passes and desert fortresses, where centuries of history and culture unfold before you.

Emerald Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Canada, reflecting snow-capped peaks under clear June skies — one of the best places to visit in summer for hiking, wildlife and alpine scenery.

June – Canada

Best place to visit in June: Canada’s great outdoors
As summer settles in, Canada bursts into life with long daylight hours, warm temperatures and lively festivals. Paddle across mirror-still lakes, hike through national parks or experience the buzz of cities like Montréal and Vancouver. Nature and culture shine equally bright this time of year.

July – Spain

Best place to travel in July: sun-drenched Spain
Summer in Spain is a celebration of light, warmth and life. From tapas in Seville to coastal escapes in San Sebastián, the country is alive with festivals, fiestas and golden evenings. Explore historic cities or unwind on Mediterranean beaches — the rhythm of summer is irresistible.

August – East Africa

Best place to visit in August: on safari in East Africa
Clear skies and dry conditions make August ideal for safaris across Kenya and Tanzania. Witness the Great Migration as herds of wildebeest cross the plains, watch elephants gather at waterholes and enjoy golden sunsets over the savannah. It’s one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences on Earth.

September – South America

Best place to travel in September: South America’s spring revival
As spring begins in the south and the dry season continues in the Andes, September is perfect for exploring the continent’s diverse landscapes. Trek to Machu Picchu, wander the streets of Buenos Aires or sip wine in Chile’s valleys. It’s an inspiring time to experience Latin America’s warmth and vibrancy.

The Pyramids of Giza rising from the desert under golden October light, the best time to visit Egypt for comfortable weather, Nile cruises and ancient temple exploration.

October – Egypt

Best place to visit in October: Egypt’s ancient wonders
The cooler months are the ideal time to uncover Egypt’s treasures – from the pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor. Cruise the Nile, explore bustling souks and stand in awe before millennia-old monuments as the golden light softens across the desert.

November – Antarctica

Best place to travel in November: the great white south
With the Antarctic summer just beginning, November offers pristine conditions for exploring the icy wilderness. Watch penguins nesting, spot seals on drifting icebergs and experience endless daylight on an expedition cruise to the world’s last frontier.

December – Cruising

Best place to visit in December: the world by sea
December is made for cruising — whether chasing the sun in the Caribbean or exploring Asia’s island gems. Escape the festive rush and sail into the new year surrounded by turquoise waters, tropical breezes and a sense of adventure.

No matter when you travel, Inspiring Vacations has a journey designed for every season — and every traveller.

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