Travelling without a care in the world is probably one of the greatest sources of happiness for most people. And, of course, you want to spend the best time of the year in places where you feel at ease and can discover new things – whether it’s adventure, history, relaxation, or even a bit of everything. Sometimes, though, you’re short of inspiration. Where’s the best place to go in winter? Do I want to head for the snow or would I prefer a warm island? Where’s actually the most beautiful place to be in autumn…
I’d love to help you answer these questions. That’s why, in this post, I’ve put together my favourite travel ideas for every month of the year. Take a look at these incredible destinations:
January
New Zealand – High summer in the Southern Hemisphere
New Zealand, with its diverse natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes, is undoubtedly a dream destination. As most of New Zealand lies on the coast, temperatures remain mild all year round – making it a top destination for escaping the cold weather back home.
Why visit New Zealand in January?
- warm temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius and little rain
- long days, meaning more time for all sorts of activities
- ideal for hiking, outdoor adventures, swimming, water sports, wildlife spotting, relaxing in unspoilt nature, strolling through towns…
- the popular hiking trails are completely snow-free
- the summer atmosphere puts you in a good mood
Dubai – Cool, dry winters in the Gulf
We’ve been visiting Dubai at least once a year for quite some time now, and we still haven’t seen all the must-see attractions. During our stays, however, we also love the relaxed atmosphere at our favourite hotels. Whether it’s the unique architecture, the impressive spa facilities, the delicious cuisine or simply relaxing by the pool with a fantastic view – a good hotel in Dubai is more than just a place to stay. We really appreciate this on our trips to Dubai.
Why visit Dubai in January?
- pleasant temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius with guaranteed sunshine
- soak up the sun on the beach or by one of the stunning hotel pools
- ideal for a stroll through the souks or visiting the sights
- perfect for desert tours too
- Dubai Shopping Festival, with substantial discounts and a varied programme of entertainment
February
Doha, Qatar – mild weather in the Gulf
Qatar’s capital, Doha, is like a fairy tale from *One Thousand and One Nights*. Winter is truly the perfect time to immerse yourself in this fascinating world for a few days. As an up-and-coming travel destination, the city entices visitors with plenty of luxury, art and impressive cultural highlights, as well as outstanding cuisine.
Why visit Doha, Qatar in February?
- mild temperatures of up to 25 degrees Celsius
- ideal for enjoying all the sights at a leisurely pace
- strolling and wandering through this magnificent city is a real pleasure in the pleasant temperatures
- perfect for desert tours
- significantly less crowded than Dubai
Tenerife – A break in the mild winter sun
Tenerife, an island blessed with mild temperatures all year round, offers countless opportunities for a varied holiday thanks to its diverse landscape and natural surroundings. What’s more, its beauty is, to me, undeniable – a perfect ‘model’, so to speak, with some stunning photo spots.
Why Tenerife in February?
- temperatures ranging from a maximum of 20 degrees Celsius (in the north) to 24 degrees Celsius (in the south)
- almond blossom around the Teide volcano
- lush green northern landscape – ideal for long or short walks
- contrast: snow on the summit of the Teide whilst you relax on the beach
- Santa Cruz Carnival – the second largest in the world
March
Andalusia Road Trip – Spain in Spring
The Andalusian zest for life can truly be felt everywhere in this enchanting region, and Andalusia is a delight to explore in the warm spring sunshine. Nothing beats a road trip for combining the beauty of nature, immersing yourself in the vibrant lifestyle and relaxing on the beach at your leisure.
Why visit Andalusia in March?
- pleasant spring-like temperatures before the summer heat sets in
- perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures
- Seville and the charming white villages can be explored at a leisurely pace
- immerse yourself in Marbella’s luxurious atmosphere
- must-try: tapas and wine
Zion National Park – The start of the hiking season in the US national parks
Zion National Park attracts visitors with one of the largest and most breathtaking wilderness areas in North America – towering rock formations, deep and narrow canyons, thundering waterfalls and rivers stretching for kilometres. It is a unique hiker’s paradise with a total of 250 kilometres of trails covering all levels of difficulty.
Why visit Zion National Park in March?
- temperatures between 14 degrees Celsius and 19 degrees Celsius
- ideal hiking conditions
- waterfalls that look particularly dramatic as the snow begins to melt
- stunning panoramic views of the canyons and the awakening, unspoilt wilderness
- significantly less crowded than in summer, shorter queues, cheaper accommodation
My top travel tip:
With an eSIM, you can easily use your cell phone anywhere in the world! I’ve been using the eSIM’s from Holafly for over a year now – it’s available in over 200 destinations, offers affordable rates, and can be activated in just 2 minutes via the app!
Use my link to get a 5% discount on all data packages and a 10% discount on monthly plans:
April
Monaco – Mild spring weather, a peaceful escape from the crowds before the Grand Prix in May
Fancy a little break before summer? Here’s my top tip: a relaxing weekend in Monaco. So many highlights, set against a stunning backdrop, and all so close together that you can enjoy your day to the full without missing a thing.
Why visit Monaco in April?
- mild spring temperatures that are perfect for relaxing and exploring
- parks and gardens in full bloom
- breathtaking views with panoramic vistas
- a relaxed atmosphere before the peak season begins
Seville – Spring in full bloom, before the summer heat sets in
The Andalusian capital, Seville, is also a wonderful choice for a long weekend. Here, you’ll be greeted by pure joie de vivre, a wealth of history and culture, and, of course, delicious tapas. For me, Seville is the perfect choice for an exciting city break, as most of the must-see attractions are close together and you can easily reach them on foot.
Why visit Seville in April?
- pleasant temperatures between 22 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius
- ideal weather for sightseeing
- nature is in full bloom
- not too chilly in the evening for tapas bar hopping and flamenco shows
- Feria de Abril – a traditional folk festival
May
Cook Islands – the start of the dry season on the Pacific
Off to paradise! Let yourself be enchanted by turquoise-blue lagoons, snow-white sandy beaches and rows of palm trees. The Cook Islands, a short hop from New Zealand, have always held a fascination and, for many people, epitomise the perfect dream holiday. And rightly so.
Why visit the Cook Islands in May?
- the rainy season is over, with more pleasant temperatures of up to 28 degrees Celsius and less rainfall
- relax by stunning lagoons
- ideal conditions for snorkelling and diving
- boat trips, hiking, cycling…
- fewer crowds and cheaper prices than in the peak season
Rome – Spring Off-Season
Do you long to savour every moment with ease and joy for a few days once again? Then Rome is the right choice, and right now is the perfect time to visit, before the summer heat sets in. The Eternal City offers the most impressive sights, monumental historical landmarks, as well as its lively locals and outstanding cuisine, not unlike the coastal charm of Sardinia or the Cinque Terre later in the year.
Why visit Rome in May?
- temperatures are still pleasant, reaching up to 25 degrees Celsius
- the ideal time to explore the city
- mild nights that invite you to stroll and linger in the piazzas
- flowering parks perfect for relaxing walks
June
Latvia – the start of the Baltic summer
Latvia – for me, an underrated hidden gem in Europe! Situated right on the Baltic Sea, here you’ll find miles of unspoilt nature, endless tranquillity and charming villages. If you’re longing for a holiday where you can get away from it all and relax on secluded beaches or in lush green forests, Latvia is exactly the right choice. The warmth of the people who live here is also infectious.
Why visit Latvia in June?
- perfect travelling weather, with temperatures between 20 degrees Celsius and 25 degrees Celsius
- unwind on the endless, secluded sandy beaches and in the national parks
- ideal for strolling through the pretty villages
- few tourists
- White Nights
Porto – A quiet spell before the crowds arrive
If you ask me which is the most beautiful city in Europe, there’s only one answer for me: Porto! Porto’s magic really gets under your skin, and you can feel it in every corner of the city. History, architecture and indulgence come together in perfect harmony. Added to this are numerous vantage points offering unique views of Porto and Gaia. Don’t miss out on this must-visit travel tip!
Why visit Porto in June?
- perfect summer weather to enjoy the unique atmosphere
- ideal for sightseeing and strolling through the picturesque alleyways
- perfect for savouring the legendary port wine and Portuguese cuisine
- significantly fewer visitors and cheaper hotel prices than in the peak season
- Festas de São João – Porto’s lively and famous city festival
July
Croatia – peak season on the Adriatic beaches
Natural wonders, idyllic beaches, fascinating history and culture – my trip to Croatia was full of breathtaking surprises. So many sights and opportunities to make your holiday varied yet relaxing! Croatia is perfect for a round trip, island hopping or simply a classic beach holiday.
Why visit Croatia in July?
- summer temperatures between 28 degrees Celsius and 33 degrees Celsius
- peak season for sun-worshippers
- ideal water temperatures that are perfect for swimming
- perfect for exploring the many Croatian islands
- balmy nights with a summery feel
Corfu – High season on the Greek islands
When you think of Greece’s islands, you probably picture the deep-blue sea, but perhaps rather dry vegetation in your mind’s eye. Not so on Corfu, though! There’s so much lush greenery here that many people wouldn’t expect. To explore all its natural wonders, picturesque beaches and deep-blue bays, you should definitely plan to spend at least a week on your trip to Corfu.
Why visit Corfu in July?
- average maximum temperature of around 31 degrees Celsius
- swimming and relaxing, strolling through Corfu’s idyllic villages
- ideal for boat trips
- perfect for rounding off the day in a cosy taverna
- the ultimate summer holiday!
August
Naxos – A quieter alternative to Santorini and Mykonos
Another real hidden gem is the Greek island of Naxos. Stunning beaches, lush green valleys and picturesque mountain villages lend your holiday a distinctive Mediterranean flair. Less well-known and therefore less crowded – Naxos is a great choice for an unforgettable summer holiday, even in peak season.
Why visit Naxos in August?
- summery, not-too-hot temperatures between 28 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius
- sunbathing and swimming on Greece’s most beautiful beaches
- immersing yourself in the enchanting charm of the small mountain villages
- less mass tourism than on the better-known Greek islands
Sardinia Road Trip – Peak season for road trips along the Italian coast
For me, the very name of the island of Sardinia evokes a sense of what awaits you as soon as you arrive: stunning sandy beaches, turquoise waters and breathtaking natural beauty. It’s not for nothing that Sardinia is known as the Caribbean of the Mediterranean. A car is a wonderful way to explore the island and let yourself be enchanted by its magic.
Why Sardinia in August?
- summery temperatures, often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius
- ideal for relaxing on the endless white sandy beaches and tranquil lagoons
- perfect for boat trips to the most beautiful secluded coves and caves
- strolling through the historic, typically Sardinian towns with their charming narrow streets
- captivating Italian holiday atmosphere
September
Istanbul – the end of the summer heat and the start of the off-season in Turkey
The only city in the world straddling two continents should be on everyone’s bucket list at least once in a lifetime. There are so many historical sights and places of interest that it’s almost impossible to see them all in a single holiday. Istanbul is wonderful to explore on foot, but don’t worry: you’ll find cosy cafés and restaurants everywhere, so you can rest and refuel from time to time during your explorations, and if you have a few extra days, Cappadocia makes an unforgettable add-on.
Why visit Istanbul in September?
- pleasant temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius
- perfect for marvelling at the diverse historical sights on both sides of the Bosphorus
- not too hot to stroll through one of the legendary bazaars and soak up the special atmosphere
- cultural highlights, such as the Istanbul Biennial
- significantly cheaper accommodation than in the height of summer
Cappadocia – The hot-air balloon season continues, with mild temperatures
Even if you’re not one of those people who dream of a hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia, it’s still well worth seeing this fairytale landscape at least once. It’s characterised by unique rock formations – the remains of volcanic eruptions spanning several million years. Nowhere else will you see this distinctive backdrop: countless colourful hot-air balloons floating above a stunning landscape as the morning dawns.
Why visit Cappadocia in September?
- pleasant temperatures of around 25 degrees Celsius
- ideal for tours through the famous valleys
- excellent flying conditions for hot-air balloons
- September light bathes the landscape in warm golden hues
- grape harvest season – perfect for a wine tasting
My top travel tip:
With an eSIM, you can easily use your cell phone anywhere in the world! I’ve been using the eSIM’s from Holafly for over a year now – it’s available in over 200 destinations, offers affordable rates, and can be activated in just 2 minutes via the app!
Use my link to get a 5% discount on all data packages and a 10% discount on monthly plans:
October
Seoul – The peak of the autumn colours
South Korea’s vast and vibrant capital is brimming with such impressive sights that it’s almost impossible to take them all in on a single trip. Beautiful palaces, stunning parks, absolutely breathtaking viewpoints… I can only recommend that you add Seoul to your bucket list for a trip to Asia, because you’ll be just as thrilled as I am.
Why visit Seoul in October?
- pleasant temperatures between 16 degrees Celsius and just over 20 degrees Celsius
- ideal conditions for sightseeing
- the city is ablaze with the most beautiful autumn colours
- perfect for letting yourself be swept up in the colourful nightlife after sunset
- numerous cultural events and markets
Cinque Terre – the off-season on the Italian Riviera
The five former fishing villages of the Cinque Terre are situated on one of Italy’s most beautiful and popular stretches of coastline. They nestle side by side, as if glued together, against the breathtaking cliffs. Brightly coloured house facades make the villages look like something out of a fairy tale. Here you’ll find the idyll of Italy!
Why visit Cinque Terre in October?
- pleasant temperatures of around 20 degrees Celsius
- perfect for exploring the charming villages and strolling through their picturesque alleyways
- ideal weather for hiking
- nature’s enchanting colours
- fewer crowds than in the peak season
November
The Great Wall of China – Fresh autumn air and the best views before winter
Are you looking for a truly special destination? Here’s my surprise tip: one of the Seven Wonders of the World – the Great Wall of China! This epic structure should definitely be on your bucket list for a trip to Asia. Of course, the Great Wall attracts millions of people every year, which often leads to extremely crowded conditions. But there are ways to visit the Great Wall in a relaxed manner, without the tourist crowds. I’ll let you in on how to do it!
Why visit the Great Wall of China in November?
- pleasantly cool temperatures of around 10 degrees Celsius
- a special atmosphere in late autumn
- perfect visibility
- lower prices
- significantly fewer visitors
Budapest – Thermal baths and early Christmas markets
Perfect for a short break or a long weekend is one of my favourite cities in Europe: the beautiful Budapest! Divided by the Danube into two completely different districts, you’ll find a wealth of contrasting sights here, such as historic buildings and monumental structures. Thanks to its partly hilly terrain, the city offers numerous stunning views and exciting photo opportunities. What’s more, Budapest is a top destination for those on a tight budget.
Why visit Budapest in November?
- temperatures around 8 degrees Celsius
- ideal for long exploration walks
- unwind in one of the many local thermal baths
- get a taste of the festive atmosphere at the Christmas markets
- a peaceful atmosphere and affordable prices
December
Finnish Lapland – pure Christmas spirit and Arctic winter magic
What could be lovelier in December than making the growing Christmas spirit absolutely perfect with powder snow in snow-covered forests? Finnish Lapland is the ideal place for this. And since Santa Claus is said to live at the North Pole, there’s probably nowhere else you can be closer to him than here. 😊
Why visit Finnish Lapland in December?
- bitterly cold winter temperatures guarantee snow
- experience the wonderful atmosphere in Santa Claus Village
- spectacular outdoor activities in the snow
- simply trudge through the sleepy winter forest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere
- unwind in the cosy warmth of a sauna in the evenings
Tromsø – Christmas magic and the Northern Lights
The city of Tromsø, situated high up in the north of Norway, also exudes the magic of Christmas in December. Everywhere you go, you’ll feel the typical cosy atmosphere of this beautiful city, situated right on the Arctic Ocean. A holiday here at Christmas simply makes time stand still and gives you plenty of unforgettable moments – whether you’re strolling through the city, standing on a mountain top with a fantastic view of the valley, or even out on the roaring sea.
Why visit Tromsø in December?
- guaranteed winter temperatures and snow
- soak up the Christmas spirit
- perfect for a road trip along the picturesque fjords
- with a bit of luck, spot the Northern Lights
- perhaps even try out an outdoor sauna
As you can see, every season has its own charm and is just waiting for you to say ‘YES’ to adventure at any moment. So, what are you waiting for? There are so many beautiful places on our planet where NOW is the perfect time to travel! I’d be delighted if this post of mine could be a source of inspiration for you. Please do let me know.
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