While Europe is cold and grey, some of these destinations thrive as the best places to visit in January
January is one of the most underrated months to travel. While much of the Northern Hemisphere is still recovering from the holidays and sitting in the heart of winter, this month offers sunshine, fewer crowds, and some of the best prices of the year. From tropical beaches to wine regions and wild safaris, here are some of the best destinations to visit in January.
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Morocco
Morocco is one of the cheapest and most rewarding destinations to visit in January. After the Christmas rush, prices for hotels, tours, and flights drop dramatically. In fact, you can find flights from Europe for as little as 20 EUR one way, making it one of the most accessible getaways for travelers seeking culture and sunshine.
The weather is pleasantly mild—perfect for wandering the labyrinthine souks of Marrakech, hiking in the Atlas Mountains, or taking in the blue alleys of Chefchaouen. Best of all, crowds are a fraction of what they are in spring or autumn, giving you space to explore at your own pace.
Why January is Perfect for Morocco
January means fewer tourists and much lower prices compared to autumn or spring. The cooler weather makes city exploration and desert trips more comfortable, while mountain regions are ideal for hikers seeking crisp air and quieter trails.
Best Tips in Morocco
- Don’t Miss: The Marrakech Medina, Sahara Desert tours from Merzouga, and Chefchaouen’s blue alleys.
- How to Get Around: Trains connect major cities efficiently. For more remote regions, buses or private drivers are the best option.
- Perfect Travel Length: 7–10 days gives enough time for both cities and desert adventures.
How Expensive is Morocco?
| Expense | Average Cost (EUR) |
| Hostel bed/night | 5-15 |
| Mid-range hotel | 30-50 |
| Dinner for 2 | 15-30 |
| Taxi (short ride) | 3-6 |
| Sahara tour (2 days) | 90-120 |
Argentina
If you’re looking for long summer days, Argentina is the place to be in January. From the vibrant energy of Buenos Aires to the breathtaking wilderness of Patagonia, this is the country’s high season for outdoor adventures.
Glacier trekking in El Calafate, hiking in El Chaltén, or sipping Malbec in Mendoza’s vineyards—January brings endless opportunities. It’s one of the best months for exploring the country’s national parks, spotting wildlife, and enjoying festive nightlife in the capital.
Why January is Perfect for Argentina
January is Patagonia’s high season, when trails are open and wildlife is most visible. Mendoza’s vineyards are in full swing, and Buenos Aires is alive with summer festivals and nightlife.
Best Tips in Argentina
- Don’t Miss: Perito Moreno Glacier, wine tours in Mendoza, and tango in Buenos Aires.
- How to Get Around: Domestic flights save time for long distances. Buses are comfortable and cheaper for budget travelers.
- Perfect Travel Length: 2–3 weeks to cover both Patagonia and northern highlights.
How Expensive is Argentina?
| Expense | Average Cost (EUR) |
| Hostel bed/night | 8-15 |
| Mid-range hotel | 40-70 |
| Dinner for 2 | 25-35 |
| Long-distance bus (10h) | 20-50 |
| Patagonia trekking tour | 50-100 |
Read more: How to plan a trip to Patagonia
United Arab Emirates
For travelers looking for warm weather and modern luxury, the UAE is a top January pick. With mild temperatures, you can comfortably explore Dubai’s futuristic skyline, wander Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, or head into the desert for a safari adventure.
This time of year also brings perfect conditions for beaches and rooftop terraces. While it’s a popular season, booking in advance can still score good hotel deals—especially in Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah.
Why January is Perfect for the UAE
Summer heat is unbearable, but in January, daytime temperatures hover around 24°C. Perfect for beach days, desert safaris, and rooftop dining without the intense heat.
Best Tips in the UAE
- Don’t Miss: Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, and a desert safari.
- How to Get Around: Metro works in Dubai, but taxis and rideshares are essential elsewhere. Renting a car is great for flexibility.
- Perfect Travel Length: 5–7 days is enough to see Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the desert.
How Expensive is the UAE?
| Expense | Average Cost (EUR) |
| Hostel bed/night | 20-30 |
| Mid-range hotel | 80-150 |
| Dinner for 2 | 40-70 |
| Taxi (10 km ride) | 8-12 |
| Desert safari tour | 60-80 |
Australia
January is full summer in Australia, making it a fantastic time to explore. Whether you’re road-tripping along the Great Ocean Road, celebrating Sydney’s buzzing atmosphere, or exploring the unique wilderness of Tasmania, the country comes alive under the summer sun.
Beaches are at their best, national parks are vibrant, and the Great Barrier Reef offers excellent diving and snorkeling conditions. Expect higher prices in popular coastal areas, but the experiences are worth it.
Why January is Perfect for Australia
Beaches, the Great Barrier Reef, and outdoor events like the Australian Open make January ideal. Long sunny days mean more time to explore iconic routes like the Great Ocean Road.
Best Tips in Australia
- Don’t Miss: Sydney Harbour, Great Barrier Reef, and Uluru.
- How to Get Around: Distances are vast—domestic flights are essential. Campervans are perfect for road trips.
- Perfect Travel Length: 3–4 weeks to explore multiple regions.
How Expensive is Australia?
| Expense | Average Cost (EUR) |
| Hostel bed/night | 25-30 |
| Mid-range hotel | 90-180 |
| Dinner for 2 | 50-80 |
| Domestic flight | 70-150 |
| Great Barrier Reef tour | 90-180 |
New Zealand
Few places shine brighter in January than New Zealand. With long daylight hours and warm, sunny weather, this is the country’s peak season for outdoor exploration.
From hiking in Fiordland National Park to cruising through Milford Sound or exploring the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, January is when the landscapes feel truly cinematic. It’s also a lively time with local festivals and events, giving travelers a mix of nature and culture.
Why January is Perfect for New Zealand
This is peak summer with warm weather, open trails, and excellent conditions for both North and South Island adventures.
Best Tips in New Zealand
- Don’t Miss: Milford Sound cruise, Tongariro Crossing, and Rotorua’s geothermal parks.
- How to Get Around: Renting a car or campervan is the best way to explore. Public transport is limited.
- Perfect Travel Length: 2–3 weeks for both islands.
How Expensive is New Zealand?
| Expense | Average Cost (EUR) |
| Hostel bed/night | 20-25 |
| Mid-range hotel | 80-120 |
| Dinner for 2 | 40-60 |
| Campervan/day | 60-100 |
| Milford Sound tour | 60-100 |
South Africa
January is one of the best months to visit South Africa. The summer season brings warm weather, vibrant vineyards in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and incredible safaris in Kruger and other game reserves.
The beaches around Cape Town are buzzing, the Garden Route is lush and green, and wildlife viewing is excellent as animals gather around scarce water sources. Add to that the affordability of food, tours, and accommodations, and South Africa becomes a top January choice.
Why January is Perfect for South Africa
Cape Town’s beaches are buzzing, vineyards are in full bloom, and Kruger offers prime wildlife viewing. Warm weather makes road trips along the Garden Route ideal.
Best Tips in South Africa
- Don’t Miss: Table Mountain, Kruger National Park safari, and Stellenbosch wine tours.
- How to Get Around: Renting a car is the best option. Domestic flights save time for long distances.
- Perfect Travel Length: 10–14 days for a balanced trip.
How Expensive is South Africa?
| Expense | Average Cost (EUR) |
| Hostel bed/night | 15-20 |
| Mid-range hotel | 50-90 |
| Dinner for 2 | 25-40 |
| Safari/day | 70-150 |
| Car rental/day | 25-40 |
Thailand
Thailand in January is close to perfect. The dry season means sunny skies, calm seas, and ideal conditions for island hopping in the south. From Koh Samui to Phuket and Krabi, this is the month for beach lovers.
Beyond the coast, January is also a great time to explore Bangkok’s markets, Chiang Mai’s temples, and northern trekking routes. The only downside is higher tourist numbers, so booking accommodation in advance is essential.
Why January is Perfect for Thailand
It’s the peak of the dry season, meaning ideal weather for island hopping in the south, plus cooler trekking conditions in the north.
Best Tips in Thailand
- Don’t Miss: Koh Phi Phi, Chiang Mai’s temples, and Bangkok’s night markets.
- How to Get Around: Domestic flights and trains work well. Tuk-tuks and ferries are best locally.
- Perfect Travel Length: 2–3 weeks for a mix of beaches and cities.
How Expensive is Thailand?
| Expense | Average Cost (EUR) |
| Hostel bed/night | 7-15 |
| Mid-range hotel | 25-50 |
| Dinner for 2 | 10-20 |
| Domestic flight | 25-50 |
| Island ferry | 5-10 |
Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s dry season begins in January, bringing sunshine and excellent conditions for both beaches and jungles. National parks like Manuel Antonio and Corcovado offer incredible wildlife encounters—sloths, monkeys, and countless tropical birds—while the Pacific coast is perfect for surfing and swimming.
It’s also a prime month for volcano hikes, canopy tours, and relaxing in eco-lodges. With roads in better condition and rainfall at its lowest, January is one of the most reliable times to experience the country’s natural beauty.
Why January is Perfect for Costa Rica
Sunny weather makes it one of the best months for wildlife spotting, volcano hiking, and surfing. Roads are also in their best condition for exploring.
Best Tips in Costa Rica
- Don’t Miss: Manuel Antonio National Park, Arenal Volcano, and Monteverde Cloud Forest.
- How to Get Around: Renting a 4×4 is best for remote areas. Shuttles connect popular destinations.
- Perfect Travel Length: 10–14 days to cover both coasts and the interior.
How Expensive is Costa Rica?
| Expense | Average Cost (EUR) |
| Hostel bed/night | 15-20 |
| Mid-range hotel | 50-90 |
| Dinner for 2 | 25-40 |
| National park entry | 15-20 |
| Car rental/day | 30-50 |
Read more: Best destinations to travel in November
