January is one of the most exciting months to start on an amazing adventure if you are uncertain where to go this year. There are fewer people, travel costs are more affordable, and the holiday rush is over. January is the month of fresh starts, and there is no better way to kick off 2026 than by finding the best places to visit in January in the world.
To start the new year off right, an increasing number of people are choosing to take a vacation in January to rest and rejuvenate. Thankfully, there are plenty of places to visit in January.
Best countries to visit in January
1) Maldives
One of the best options for a tropical start to the year is the Maldives. It is one of the best places to travel in January. The Maldives is like a postcard in January, with its infinite blue, coral reefs, and overwater bungalows. Low humidity, sunny days, and stunning underwater visibility are all that you can expect. It is ideal for diving, snorkeling, or just lounging in an overwater condo.
You can book Maldives tour packages that handle your transfers, island stays, meals, and sightseeing.
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Featured 2) Sri Lanka
The island nation of Sri Lanka is situated in the Indian Ocean. It is renowned for its breathtaking beaches and Buddhist temples that date back thousands of years. Start with a Nuwara Eliya Tour Package, where you will travel by rail over hills covered in mist and emerald tea gardens. You can pamper yourself with rejuvenating Spa therapies and Ayurvedic treatments.
Check out the Kandy Holiday Packages, and proceed northwards. You will get to see the Temple of the Tooth, traditional dance performances, and enjoy walks along the royal lake. Hiking to Sigiriya rock fortress or whale viewing near Mirissa are also fantastic activities to indulge in January.
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Featured 3) France
If you wish to participate in winter sports, France is one of the best places to travel in January. It is also the best time to visit Paris. January is the time of semi-annual sales, when you can go shopping. It is at the forefront of global brands, flea markets, flagship haute couture stores, vintage shops, and designer boutiques.
Paris in January is a low tourist season. You will find fewer tourists at landmarks like the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. As a result, airfare and lodging costs are also reduced. For a day of excitement, laughing, and fun, you will also love going to Disneyland Paris. One of the best ways to easily and affordably experience the French city is to book Paris tour packages in January.
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Featured 4) Italy
Italy in January is a slower month. So you can take your time exploring the piazzas, churches, and museums. The tourist frenzy subsides. Shorter lines and better hotel rates are the results of fewer visitors. Its cuisine, dress, and art, however, are still enticing.
You can start by booking Florence Tour Packages that include vistas of the Tuscan countryside, trips to the Uffizi, and local culinary tours. Combine that with Venice Holiday Packages. Go on a gondola ride, romantic canalside strolls, and browse the shops at St Mark Square.
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Featured 5) Spain
Spain has to be your destination if you are looking for pleasant weather. Madrid and Barcelona are the most popular tourist destinations in Spain. Madrid Holiday Packages are ideal for those who enjoy museums and cuisine.
If the architecture of Gaudi appeals to you, you can also select Barcelona Packages. See the Barcelona Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, and Casa Battlo. Additionally, you can admire the Montjuic Magic Fountain or see a Palau de la Musica concert.
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Featured 6) Greece
Are you wondering if January is a busy month in Greece? We are happy to tell you that it is not. Since there are less tourists during this off-season, you may visit the well-known locations like the Acropolis or the breathtaking views of Santorini without having to compete for space.
Athens tour packages that combine city sightseeing with short island getaways or countryside tours are available for purchase. You can visit charming tavernas for warm beverages and traditional Greek fare, or take advantage of winter sales for discounts on apparel and souvenirs.
7) Switzerland
Switzerland should be at the top of your list of places to go in January if you enjoy seeing the snow-capped Alps. The air is clean. In alpine settlements, you can enjoy hot chocolate, snowboarding, or skiing. Enjoy the cheese fondue, which can be found practically anywhere.
Zurich tour packages lets you admire the beauty of the city. It provides convenient access to the Swiss Alps for snow activities. You can visit neighborhood chocolatiers or take a stroll around Lake Zurich. After that, travel by train to Lucerne, Jungfrau, or Zermatt.
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Featured 8) Thailand
Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia. It is among the most visited places to visit in January outside India. Sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and water sports are all excellent on the beaches of Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, and Koh Samui. Witness traditional Buddhist rituals and marvel at the elaborate architecture and decorations at its lavish temples, including Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew.
Thailand is a well-liked backpacker destination due to its accessibility, affordability, and welcoming locals. Thai food is renowned around the world for its strong flavors, fragrant spices, and different dishes. You can taste sweet delicacies like sticky mango rice, savory classics like pad Thai, green curry, and tom yum soup.
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Featured 9) United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is one of the best countries to visit in January. Here, the weather is still cool and dry, making it ideal for spending time outdoors. If you travel to Dubai in January, you can also witness the spectacle of a number of events, such as the Dubai Shopping Festival or the DSF Auto Season.
You may ride a roller coaster at Ferrari World, visit the Burj Khalifa, and take a hot air balloon ride over the desert, among other things. The UAE attracts lots of tourists because of its theme parks, beaches, and retail establishments.
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Featured 10) Australia
Sydney is a wonderful starting point for your trip to Australia. The biggest airport with the greatest number of international flight connections is located there. Furthermore, Sydney is a stunning, vibrant city with fantastic beaches.
It is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts because of its close proximity to Blue Mountains National Park. Additionally, wine enthusiasts will adore a day trip to the Hunter Valley to sample Australian wines. You can take a scuba dive or snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef.
11) Costa Rica
Travelling to Costa Rica for a holiday means that you can simply relax. Alternatively, you can also indulge in adventures such as going hiking. Further, its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and waterfalls make it an attractive holiday destination.
You can visit Irazu Volcano, Arenal Hanging Bridges Ecological Reserve, and go on a Monteverde cloud forest hike. The top attractions in Costa Rica are the Nicoya Peninsula, Turrialba rafting center, and Rincónde la Vieja National Park.
12) Egypt
Some of the most famous ancient sites in the world, such as the Great Pyramids of Giza, are located in Egypt. For those who enjoy the beach and water sports, well-known resort cities like Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh provide a sanctuary with options for sailing, diving, and snorkeling.
Book Cairo Holiday Packages and wander around Karnak Temple, go on a Nile River Cruise, or admire the artifacts at the Egyptian Museum.
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Featured 13) Germany
Inquire about Berlin holiday packages with your tour operator. In January, Berlin has streets covered with snow, lively marketplaces, and cafes offering classic German fare.
You may visit famous sites, including Museum Island, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and the Brandenburg Gate. A visit to Berlin provides an amazing start to the new year.
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Featured 14) Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan features two time zones and five climatic zones. Almaty is among the top tourist destinations in Kazakhstan. The people there are friendly. You can pick from Almaty holiday packages, which are ideal for a vacation in January 2026.
You can enjoy skiing at the Shymbulak Resort, relax in traditional saunas, or take in the breathtaking views of Big Almaty Lake after a day in the snow. The Beatles Statue of Almaty, Charyn Canyon, The Last Wild Apple Forests, Big Almaty Lake, Kok-Tobe Hill, Kolsai Lakes, Almaty Central Park, and more are well-liked tourist destinations in Almaty.
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Featured 15) Azerbaijan
Consider Baku Holiday Packages, which take you to the beautiful city of Azerbaijan. You can see a contrast between the Old City and futuristic structures like the Flame Towers.
You can warm yourself with Azerbaijani food at stylish neighborhood cafes or walk along the Boulevard.
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Featured 16) Norway
Another excellent destination for January travel is Norway. With its many attractions, including polar bears, skiing, high mountains, and breathtaking fjords, Norway has something to offer every kind of traveler. Given the high likelihood of viewing the Northern Lights, January is one of the greatest seasons to travel to Norway.
You can also enjoy thrilling activities such as dog sledding, reindeer safaris, and snowshoeing. Cities like Oslo and Bergen attract tourists for their ski resorts and Christmas Markets. You can see attractions like Pulpit Rock and the Sognefjord.
Travel Tips for January Travel
- Always verify your travel documentation, weather forecasts, and visa requirements. Electronic registration or e-visas are required in many countries
- Purchase travel insurance.
- Bring clothes that are appropriate.
- Take local transportation, like buses and trains. Many European states have strong rail networks.
- Stay flexible in your schedule. Weather or delays may shift your plans.
Concluding Thoughts
You have plenty of options when it comes to where to go in January. You may stroll through historic temples in Sri Lanka, sip champagne in Paris, ski through Swiss valleys, or unwind on a Maldivian beach. Keep in mind that what you adore will determine your dream vacation. Take this as your road map and make exciting plans.
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