The best places to visit in January
January is typically grey and wet in the UK, so what better time to get away? If you’ve got annual leave to use up before March, or if it’s just refreshed for the new year, why not get stuck into it straight away? It’s a great month to visit hot countries further afield, or festive cities in Europe. And since the Christmas rush has just died down and most people are staying home, it’s a brilliant time to see new places without so many tourists.
These are some of the best countries to visit in January.
One or two-week holidays in January
Sri Lanka
In January, Sri Lanka is warm and dry with very little rainfall. So it’s the perfect time to explore their stunning beaches, take the iconic train ride between Kandy and Ella, hike up Sigiriya rock, and spot elephants and leopards on safari.
Find out how we spent two weeks in Sri Lanka here.
The Philippines
January is peak tourist season in The Philippines as the weather is dry but fairly cool – as far as Filipino weather goes! But don’t let that put you off. Even when it’s busy, The Philippines is a paradise. Go island hopping, explore the world-class beaches, take a boat trip, and wander the eclectic towns.
Find out how we spent two weeks in The Philippines here.
Colombia
January is one of the best times of year to visit Colombia, with good weather almost guaranteed. It’s warm and mostly dry (although you can expect a bit of rain all year in the Andes), and you can visit anywhere from the jungle to the beach, the mountains, and the incredible cities without worrying too much about the climate.
Colombia is one of my favourite countries in the world. In fact, I visited it twice in 2025 alone, I love it that much. Want to know why? Read our full Colombia itinerary here.
Mexico
Another one of my favourite countries is Mexico, and when it’s winter in the UK, you can count on good weather in the Yucatan Peninsula, Oaxaca state, and the capital Ciudad de Mexico. January is the perfect time to take two weeks (or more!) to explore this incredible country in good weather, and without the summer crowds.
Here’s how we spent three weeks in Mexico.
Australia
Australia in January is hot! But if you want to experience the other side of the world in mid-summer, this is the time to do it. Head to the beaches in the tropical north, go surfing in Sydney, or explore the wilderness in Tasmania. Whatever you do, you’re almost guaranteed good weather and great vibes in Australia in January.
Read our full three week Australia itinerary here.
The Canary Islands
The best thing about the Canary Islands is that it almost always has good weather. The best thing about the Canary Islands in January is that it has good weather, and is way quieter than in summer. That’s not to say it’s totally quiet… Europeans all know that if you’re looking for some winter sun, the Canaries are a top spot. So book in advance to make the most of cheaper prices and better accommodation before it’s all snapped up.
We’ve spent winters in Lanzarote, in Gran Canaria, in Tenerife, and in Fuerteventura and there are so many great hikes, beaches, and other activities that keep us coming back for more. Plus, it’s only an hour ahead of the UK in winter so it’s a perfect digital nomad spot.
Long weekend holidays in January
Copenhagen
Copenhagen is a brilliant city for a weekend away in January – or in any month, really. This stunning, laid-back city feels timeless, traditional, and effortlessly modern all at once. You’ll find some of the best food in Europe, explore some of the most stunning city streets, and experience something totally unique in Freetown Christiania.
Find out how we spent a long weekend in Copenhagen here.
Dublin
Visiting Dublin in January is a great time to make the most of the festive feel while the lights are still up, but without the crowds of Christmas. We saw the lights around the city centre and Temple Bar, took a tour of the Guinness Storehouse, went for a wet and windy walk in Howth, and visited Dublin Castle on a cold weekend in January, and the weather didn’t get in our way once.
Find out our favourite things to do in Dublin.
Tromsø
Nothing says festive getaway like a trip to the north pole (almost). Tromsø is in Norway’s arctic circle, and in January you’ve got a 100% chance of snow and a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights. Of course, it’s not guaranteed… We missed the Aurora Borealis due to clouds and it honestly didn’t get in the way of us having an amazing long weekend in Tromsø.
Find out what we think are the best things to do in Tromsø in January.
Warsaw
Like Dublin, Warsaw is still lit up with Christmas lights and Christmas spirit in January, making it a great time to visit without the crowds of December. We had snow, sun, and an amazing weekend wandering the old town and its museums, learning all about the fascinating history of Poland’s capital.
Find out about our long weekend in Warsaw here.