Top 28 Places To Visit In January In The World
Want to spend your New Year vacation at some amazing destinations? Or do you want to start your first day of the New Year while chilling on the beach? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered. Because it’s cold in January, it makes most people travel. Some go to beaches or islands, others want to go to the mountains, and some want to spend their vacation in a peaceful place away from the chaos of the world. From whichever group you belong to, here are some of the best places to travel in January in the world.
Best places to visit in January in the world:
- Maldives
- Dubai
- Switzerland
- Cambodia
- Costa Rica
- India
- Morocco
- Kenya
- Hawaii
- Laos
- Ethiopia
- Tanzania
- Vietnam
- Amsterdam
- New York
- Courchevel
- Los Angeles
- Harbin
- Cartagena
- Belize
- Barbados
- New Zealand
- Nicaragua
- South Africa
- Australia
- Bruges
- Sri Lanka
- Bali
1. Maldives
If you are looking for some of the best places to visit in January outside India to get the beach vibes, then Maldives is a perfect choice. A paradise made of beautiful islands surrounded by crystal clear waters. It is the perfect destination for honeymooners and beach lovers. Endless views of the sparkling blue ocean, mild breeze and beaches make Maldives one of the best places to visit in January in the world.
Top Tourist Places – Well, there are plenty of islands that shouldn’t be missed when visiting the Maldives; here are some best places to visit: Sun Island, Utheemu Ganduvaru, Baros Island, Mirihi Island and for water sports, you can go to Artificial Beach, National Museum, Presidential palace etc. are spots which make it one of the best places to visit in January outside India.
Things to do – Indulge in watersports, discover multiple islands, and don’t forget to go to the Ithaa undersea restaurant. You can also celebrate your honeymoon in Maldives.
2. Dubai
One of the fastest-growing places in the world, Dubai is a classic choice to visit in January. With the top amusement parks, shopping malls, exotic beaches, and hotels with top-notch facilities make Dubai one of the best places to visit in January outside India.
Top tourist places – Museum of the Future, Desert Safari, Dubai Miracle Garden, Dubai Marina, Kite Beach, Dubai Aquarium and underwater zoo are some top attractions.
Things to do – Desert safari, go to The Lost Chamber Aquarium, Skydiving, one can also indulge in watersports, don’t forget to see the Dubai Fountain in the evening.
3. Switzerland
Looking for the best place to travel in January in the world? If you love snow-capped mountains, then Switzerland is a dream destination for you. The climate gets a little cold, and snow covers the whole of Switzerland, making it look like heaven. Switzerland’s Christmas market is really famous, so if you are looking to spend your Christmas and New Year holidays somewhere, then this is a dreamland. Definitely one of the best places to visit in January in the world.
Top tourist places – Interlaken Flower Garden, Lake Geneva, Rhine Fall, Oberhofen Castle, Zurich, Swiss National Park etc.
Things to do – Scenic train journey in Jungfraujoch, enjoy boating at the Rhine Falls, hiking, Skydiving, Kayaking, Parasailing, etc.
4. Cambodia
An incredible place where history meets glamour. Cambodia has historical temples, scenic beaches and some amazing landscapes to experience. January is a fantastic time to visit Cambodia because the weather is just perfect, neither too cold nor too hot, making it the best place to travel in January in the world.
Top tourist places – Angkor, Koh Ker, Koh Rang, Poipet, Central Market, Tonle Sap Lake, National Museum and Bamboo Island are some of the best tourist attractions.
Things to do: Biking, underwater diving, shopping, experiencing Cambodian spas, witnessing blissful sunrises at Angkor.
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5. Costa Rica
It is a rainforest destination located in Central America. It is a really peaceful place away from the hustle and bustle of the city. It has stunning beaches, wildlife, and waterfalls, and it’s full of nature. A perfect winter getaway if you are looking for the best place to visit in January in the world.
Top tourist places – San Jose, Tamarindo, La Fortuna waterfall, Cahuita National Park, and Poas volcano are major tourist attractions.
Things to do – Explore waterfalls, zip lining, horse riding, Volcano tours, beach hopping, white water rafting, Canopy tours, etc.
6. India
India could be a humid destination for westerners, but for winter it is definitely one of the best places to visit in January in the world. India is a great place to visit in January as the weather is pleasant, and there’s a lot of things you can do here. Places like Delhi, Rajasthan etc., hold a rich historical touch in themselves. India is surely the best place to travel in January in the world. Be it a Lush green forest a historical monument, or cool beaches, India has a variety of experiences to offer. Still thinking where to go?
Top tourist places – Leh Ladakh, Jaipur, Vrindavan, Goa, Kerala, Meghalaya, Uttarakhand etc.
Things to do – Explore Rajasthan’s forts, indulge in cultural activities, shop hand-crafted decors, experience street foods in Delhi, backwater cruise in Kerala, adventure activities and wildlife safaris are some of the best things to do here. You can also check out some of the historical places in India.
7. Morocco
Best places to visit in January in the world. It’s seen as an offbeat yet fantastic choice for a January visit. Morocco is considered a charming winter destination and ranks among the top names for warm places to visit. The lovely city, with its colourful markets and mosques, along with Jbel Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa, are some of the best places to explore.
Top tourist places – Sahara Desert, High Atlas, Casablanca are prominent.
Things to do – Hike to the Atlas mountains, take a camel ride in Sahar, and experience traditional bathhouses.
8. Kenya
Kenya in East Africa is also a great choice if you are looking for some best places to visit in January outside India. This country is located along the coastline of the Indian Ocean and has diverse landscapes like savannahs, lakes, valleys, and mountains. Tourists also love it for its wildlife. The Masai Mara Reserve and Amboseli National Park are fantastic spots. They offer incredible views of Tanzania’s Mt. Kilimanjaro. If you’re into wildlife, visiting Kenya in January is a great idea. You’ll get some of the best wildlife experiences.
Top tourist places – Amboseli National Park, Nairobi, Lake Victoria, Fourteen Falls, Lamu island.
Things to do – Hike to Mt. Kenya, jeep safari in Nairobi National Park, and visit Hippo Point; cycling is also a great way to explore Kenya.
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9. Hawaii
In January, Hawaii is perfect for enjoying nature’s beauty. It is a chain of islands and home to two active volcanoes that are a must-visit. And if you’re looking for a relaxing stay, there are plenty of luxurious accommodations in this tropical paradise. It’s a dream destination which offers a mix of natural wonders like volcanoes and waterfalls making it the best place to travel in January in the world. It is also widely famous for its beaches and vibrant culture.
Top tourist places – Kailua Kona, Kapolei, Makakilo, Wailuku, Waikiki Beach, Hanauma Bay nature preserve.
Things to do – Scenic road drive to Hana, snorkeling and underwater diving, attend a traditional Hawaii feast.
10. Laos
Lao, also known as the “land of a million elephants”, is known for its stunning waterfalls, shiny temples, and Buddhist monks. It is one of the best places to visit in January in the world. Affordable for travellers, making it a top choice for a vacation, especially in January.
Top tourist places – Vang Vieng, Kuang Si waterfall, Vientiane, Nong Kiau, Than KongLo caves.
Things to do – Mekong River Cruises, trekking & adventures, experience local cuisine, visit Buddhist temples.
11. Ethiopia
In January, Ethiopia is another amazing location with highlands and rich traditions. However, it can be a little colder, but due to the clear sky and moderate climate, it’s the perfect time to visit. The famous Timket festival is also celebrated, where local traditional attire is worn, and priests carry umbrellas—a perfect time to experience Ethiopia’s culture and beauty. Ethiopia is clearly one of the best places to visit in January in the world.
Top tourist places – Lalibela, Omo Valley, Bale Mountains National Park, Harar, Rift Valley.
Things to do – Explore Lalibela’s Rock-Hewn Churches, visit Axum, Danakil Depression, Blue Nile Falls, and try Ethiopian Cuisine.
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12. Tanzania
If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then this is the best place to travel in January in the world. It is considered as a hidden gem where amazing wildlife, such as giraffes, elephants, and lions roam freely. This place offers a variety of diverse landscapes, including beaches and culture. Tanzania is also famous for safaris that enable travellers to witness Africa’s rich wildlife. Plus, great weather for game-watching is provided in January, surely an ideal time to visit. Considering it in the list of best places to visit in January in the world is a non-negotiable statement.
Top tourist places – Zanzibar city, Arusha, Moshi, Mt. Kilimanjaro.
Things to do – Safari in Serengeti National Park, visit Zanzibar beaches, cultural Tours, balloon Safaris, Scuba Diving and Snorkeling.
13. Vietnam
If you are looking for an affordable yet chill location, come to Vietnam. Explore stunning islands which make breathtaking views. Get involved in local cuisine with the view of lush greenery and waterfalls. Vietnam is a quite less expensive and great vacation destination in January.
Top tourist places – Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Sapa, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Da Nang are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam.
Things to do – Cruise in Halong Bay, visit Hoi An Ancient Town, experience Vietnamese Cuisine, trekking in Sapa, relax in Mekong Delta
14. Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the best pick for January travel and one of the best places to visit in January in the world. It’s packed with history, canals, museums, and charming spots. The city has cool vintage shops, stunning architecture, and a really crowded nightlife involving clubs, roadshows etc.
Top tourist places – Dam Square, Canal Cruise, Jordaan district, Vondelpark.
Things to do – Cycling in the city, indulging in local and Dutch cuisine, Red Light District, art galleries and street markets.
15. New York
Known for its stunning buildings and vibrant art, New York is a happening location, especially in January. This place is famous for its food and shopping worldwide, which attracts food lovers from around the world. Visiting museums is a must to explore ancient treasures and modern art.
New York is also one of the best places to celebrate New Year in the World.
Top tourist places – Statue of Liberty, Museum of Modern Art, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park.
Things to do – Visit the Museums, explore Central Park, stroll around High Line Park, and take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty.
16. Courchevel
One of the most fascinating and best tourist places to visit in January in the world. Located in France is a fantastic place to visit in winter. It is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. The nearby area is filled with lavish hotels, cosy chalets, and great restaurants, so you don’t have to worry about your stay and food. Plus, the nightlife here is exciting, and the whole place looks stunning.
Top tourist places – Skiing in Les Trois Vallees, Aquamotion, Courchevel Moriond.
Things to do – Winter Hiking and Snowshoeing, Ice Skating, Aquamotion, cultural excursions, hot air ballooning.
17. Los Angeles
Located near mountains, Los Angeles is an amazing January vacation spot. Famous for its golden beaches, clear blue sky, hills, happening nightlife and famous Hollywood sign. Apart from being featured in many Hollywood movies, it is a Hollywood hub with high buildings, clean roads and architecture.
Top tourist places – Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame, Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Venice Beach, The Hollywood Bowl.
Things to do: Visit Getty Villa, watch the sunset at Griffith Observatory, and go shopping.
18. Harbin
Harbin is considered as one of the places to visit in January in the world. Located in China, also known as the ‘Ice City’ because it hosts the International Ice and Snow Festival every January. You’ll experience a good amount of ice and snow sculptures due to the freezing temperatures. Harbin has lots of snowy experiences for tourists.
Top tourist places – Jingpo Lake, Harbin Confucian Temple, Siberian Tiger Park, Central Street, Sun Island.
Things to do – Enjoy Winter Activities, discover the Heilongjiang Provincial Museum, walk along Central Street, and explore the Ice and Snow Festival.
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19. Cartagena
Cartagena, adorned with flowers, history, ancient stone walls, and natural beauty, is an amazing place to visit in January. It has some UNESCO-recognized sites as well. Cartagena is also famous for its churches and crowded yet charming streets.
Top tourist places – Jamaica, Aruba, The Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, Cayman Islands, Puerto Rico.
Things to do – Snorkeling and Diving, Island Exploration, Boat Tours and Cruises, sampling local cuisine, spa retreats.
20. Belize
Located in Central America, and it is xfamous for its natural beauty and vibrant cultural history. Belize’s beaches are really exceptional and there’s a beach which is the world’s second-largest barrier reef. Although it is a fascinating place to visit anytime, January is especially a great witness to its beauty. This is surely on the list of best places to visit in January in the world.
Top tourist places – Belize Zoo, Placencia, Xunantunich, Lamanai, Belize Barrier Reef, Caye Caulker.
Things to do: Explore Ancient Maya Ruins, Caye hopping, snorkelling, wildlife and nature tours, jungle adventures, and indulge in local cuisine.
21. Barbados
Barbados, famous for its beautiful coastline cities and historic houses, is a fantastic location for anyone and among the best places to visit in January in the world. This place offers its tourists plenty of experiences like surfing, wildlife, marine life, etc. One can also visit rum distillation factories; there are a lot of reasons to consider this when planning a trip in January.
Top tourist places – Andromeda Botanic Gardens, Bottom Bay, Barbados Museum, Bridgetown, Carlisle Bay, Animal Flower Cave.
Things to do – Explore Bridgetown, take a guided tour of Harrison’s cave, visit Plantation Houses, and wander through Botanical gardens.
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22. New Zealand
A beautiful country, perfect for couples in January. New Zealand has aesthetic landscapes offering forests, mountains, sunsets, and beaches. There are many scenic places where you can go via mountain bikes, or you can prefer to hike as well. There are many more adventure activities for thrill seekers to experience.
Top tourist places – Fiordland National Park. Rotorua, Queenstown, Bay of Islands, Waitomo Caves, Tongariro National Park.
Things to do – Caving adventures, beach activities, Maori cultural experiences, hiking, snowboarding, cruising, Local food experiences, stargazing.
23. Nicaragua
One of the best places to visit in January in the world. Nicaragua is one of the top tourist destinations with huge volcanic cliffs, coastline beaches and dark green forests. The perfect time to visit is January, as the weather is mild, not too rainy, and not too hot, making it a fantastic location to visit. If you want to explore Central America, then this place is a must-visit.
Top tourist places – San Juan River, Corn Islands, Masaya Volcano National Park, Mombacho Volcano, Ometepe Island
Things to do – Boat tours, market Visits, artisan workshops, adventure activities, exploring colonial cities, climbing Telica Volcano.
24. South Africa
January is an ideal time to visit this country. If you are a wildlife enthusiast and adventure seeker, then this is a dream destination for you. You can enjoy vast wildlife, scenic drives, beaches, and some adventures like shark cage diving and other water activities.
Top tourist places – Sun City, Robben Island, Drakensberg Mountains, Cape Town, Kruger National Park, Stellenbosch & Cape Winelands,
Things to do – Safari experience, Robben Island tour, Shark cage diving, cultural experiences, activities at beaches, Cape Peninsula tour.
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25. Australia
Another perfect destination for wildlife adventures is where you can see Kangaroos here and there. Australia is among the best places to visit in January in the world as it’s summer there at that time of year, a great time to do stuff like hiking, underwater diving, wildlife safaris, etc. In January, people from all over the world visit here just to experience the Grand New Year’s celebrations. Cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide are major attractions; each city has something interesting to offer, like art places, fancy foods, naturally beautiful landscapes, and much more.
Top tourist places – Sydney, Gold Coasts, Melbourne, Cairns
Things to do – Discover Melbourne city, explore Sydney Opera House, Great Ocean Road, Daintree rainforest, enjoy Australia’s urban life.
26. Bruges
Bruges is one of the top romantic destinations; it is one of the best places to explore Europe.
In January, this city’s glamour increases because of the New Year decorations, making it the best places to visit in January in the world.
Doesn’t matter who you are; this city has something for everyone, whether it be cool futuristic buildings, museums and old medieval buildings. Choco-Story Museum is a really famous place where you can learn about chocolate and get to taste some freshly made chocolates as well.
Top tourist places – Basilica of the Holy Blood, Belfry of Bruges, Groeninge Museum, Church of Our Lady.
Things to do – Admire Gothic Architecture, visit Museums and Art Galleries, indulge in Belgian Cuisine, and take a Canal Tour.
27. Sri Lanka
In January, Sri Lanka is great. Sri Lanka is a beautiful island with stunning beaches, hilltops, lush green mountains and wild animals. One of the best places to visit in January in the world and a perfect location for winter.
You‘ll get less crowded beaches, picture-perfect roads surrounded by palm trees and clean blue-green water. This place is full of Buddhist places, and people are also super friendly, and they’ll make you feel warm and welcome.
Top tourist places – Nuwara Eliya, Sigiriya, Ella, Galle, Yala National Park, Mirissa, Kandy.
Things to do: Hike on Sigiriya Rock, go on safaris, explore the Temple of the Tooth, and visit the Dambulla Cave Temple.
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28. Bali
If you’re looking for a peaceful vacation or a honeymoon, then Bali is the place for you. It is a quiet place with peaceful beaches and cosy hotels. January is a preferable time to experience Bali at its best as most of the crowd goes back at this time of year so you get your own space as well.
Clearly one of the best places to visit in January in the world. It has some famous temples like Uluwata, Basakih and Tanah Lot; these are not just a place with religious belief, it is also really remarkable buildings. This place is also famous for its handicrafts like fabrics, jewelry, and decor stuff which displays their creativity.
Top tourist places – Besakih Temple, Uluwatu Temple, and Mount Batur are some popular places to visit in Bali.
Things to do – Visit temples, surf, shop in the Ubud Art Market, trek to Mount Batur for a picture-perfect sunrise view, and enjoy diving and other watersports.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In January In The World
What are some ideal international destinations to visit in January?
Hawaii, Maldives, Dubai, Costa Rica, Sri Lanka are some ideal international destinations to visit in January.
Are there any unique events or festivals to attend in January globally?
International Kite Festival in Gujarat and Thaipusam: The first full moon festival in Singapore are a widely famous festival in January.
What are some destinations with favourable weather conditions in January?
Sri Lanka, Barbados, Thailand and Canary Islands, Amazon River Cruise, Kerala, India, Hawaii, and Malaysia are some best destinations if you’re planning to travel in January because at these places temperature is neither too cold nor too high (20°C to 30°C):
Are there places suitable for winter sports or snowy landscapes in January?
Yes, there are some places where you can enjoy winter sports, like skiing and snowboarding, like France, the United States, Canada, Austria, and Switzerland.