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It is one of the main questions on a traveller’s mind: where should I go on holiday and when is the best time to do so?
Whether planning an unforgettable wildlife experience, maybe amidst the vast savannas of southern Africa or the jungles of Sri Lanka, hoping to immerse yourself in a special cultural event or festival or, simply, wishing to avoid high temperatures, busy times of year or the vagaries of annual monsoon rains, the decision as to where to go on holiday and when to do so is possibly the most important choice when finalising your travel plans.
This guide has been specially compiled to help you make informed travel decisions as to the ideal time to travel to countries around the world so that you are able to experience them at their absolute best. Whether exploring Rajasthan and northern India in November, witnessing New England's stunning autumnal foliage in October or attending an August operatic performance in Verona’s iconic Arena, visiting Vietnam and South East Asia in February, California in May or Canada in June, our guide provides destination-specific advice to ensure you have the information you need to plan your next holiday and inspire you with new travel ideas.
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OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In January
January is the best time for winter sun whether enjoying an Asian beach escape in Thailand or a relaxing break in the Caribbean, exploring Kolkata and little-visited Eastern India or Laos to explore the country’s many cultural sights.
Famed for its tropical islands, bustling cities, diverse wildlife and indigenous cultures, one of the best times to visit Thailand is in January. Combine city, beach and rainforest in one trip where you can expect dry and sunny days with highs of up to 30°C.
January is an excellent time to visit the Caribbean for some winter sun. It is one of the driest and sunniest months with little worry of tropical storms. The verdant volcanoes of St Lucia are beautiful at this time of year as are the calm waters of Barbados.
The best time to visit Laos is January when the weather is warm and the risk of rainfall low. It is also an excellent time of year to embark on a river cruise. High river levels make it easy to explore the Mekong and the country’s waterways.
From exploring the Raj-era buildings of Kolkata, travelling north to the historic trading centres of Barrackpore and Monghyr or heading south to under-visited Odisha, January is the perfect month to visit Eastern India with little risk of rain and comfortable temperatures.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In FEBRUARY
February is a fabulous time to travel. Visit one of South Africa’s exceptional national parks or journey along the beautiful Garden Route, travel the length of Vietnam, explore the cultural sites of Kerala or opt for total relaxation in the Maldives.
Whether driving the scenic Garden Route, wine tasting in the Cape Vineyards or taking a once-in-a-lifetime safari in the Kruger, February is a great time to visit South Africa. Expect hot days cooled with pleasant sea breezes with light rain in some regions.
The states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu are at their best during the month of February. Kerala is known for its palm-fringed coast but this scenic state boats everything from tea estates to national parks. Tamil Nadu is home to the finest temples in India especially those in Madurai and Tanjore.
February is one of the sunniest and driest months of the year. Clear, crystalline waters makes the Maldives ideal for diving and snorkelling, and warm temperatures and bright blue skies create the perfect setting for relaxing in the sun.
Home to culture, history and unrivalled natural beauty, one of the best times to visit Vietnam is February. It is dry season for most of the country with temperatures between 25-30°C and low humidity. You may also catch the magical Lunar New Year – Tet.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In March
March is a great time to travel. Fewer visitors mean it is an ideal time to visit Oman, the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is resplendent with spring flowers, Florida offers a warm welcome and or undertake a memorable Indian river cruise.
With temperatures in the mid 20’s, March is an ideal time to travel to Oman before the scorching heat of the summer hits. It is also less busy than the previous months making it a great time to visit the ancient forts, rolling sand dunes and wild beaches.
March marks the beginning of spring in Florida where temperatures begin to rise and days start to get longer. With nine hours of sunlight, there’s plenty of time explore the theme parks, relax at the beach, and enjoy cotton-candy-pink sunsets over the Atlantic.
The best time to visit Bhutan is either during the spring or autumn, however March is at its prettiest with spring flowers, rhododendron and azalea all in bloom. The climate is also dry and pleasant with sunny skies and a fresh breeze.
March is an ideal time to take an exploratory Indian river cruise. River journeys in India take place on either the holy Ganges or the mighty Brahmaputra – the former from Kolkata and the latter as it winds its way through Assam passing extraordinary national parks and rural scenery.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In April
April is synonymous with Japan and the cherry blossom is in full bloom at this time of year. Temperate weather in the Deep South of America and Morocco makes this an excellent time to visit whilst April is also the perfect time for viewing wildlife in India.
Japan bursts into shades of pink in April with the beautiful cherry blossom in full bloom – expect Sakura-coated temples, streets awash with rose-coloured buds and parks covered in floral carpets. Temperatures range between 15-24°C, making it a pleasant time to travel.
Famed for its musical cities, historical roots, bright lights and iconic southern food, the Deep South is a feast for the senses. The best time to visit the Deep South is in April where days are warm and sunny, and evenings are comfortably cool – perfect for exploring.
Morocco is a mysterious land awash with colours and spices. The best time to visit is during spring, especially April, where the weather is pleasantly warm. It is also a great time for birdwatching and seeing wildflowers in bloom.
The month of April is excellent for wildlife viewing in India since high temperatures and lack of water result not only in a reduction of foliage but also encourage animals to be less cautious when searching for water. The reserves of central and northern India are best for tiger sightings.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In May
May is a fantastic time to visit the Mediterranean, especially Spain, Italy and Croatia, where the warm weather is comfortable for sightseeing. America’s west coast is beautiful at this time of year and provides perfect conditions for exploring national parks.
A wonderful blend of cosmopolitan cities, picture-perfect islands and an intriguing history, Spain is best visited from spring to late autumn. May however is one of the best months to travel where you can expect warm weather and fewer visitors.
Whilst California is a year-round destination, May boasts warm temperatures and less crowds. It is also a great time to travel to Western USA and the region’s magnificent national parks to enjoy outdoor activities before the intense summer heat arrives.
As the Mediterranean starts to heat up, May is a wonderful time to travel to Italy where temperatures are pleasant and visitor numbers are relatively low. It is a great month to visit the usually busy sights and museums of Rome, Florence and Venice.
Croatia is one of the Mediterranean’s gems; a country of secluded islands, beautiful beaches and medieval walled cities. One of the best times to visit Croatia is May where temperatures average around the early to mid-twenties, making it a comfortable time to explore.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In June
June is a good time to visit the west coast Canada including British Columbia and Alberta. For wildlife enthusiasts there are few better places in the world than Borneo and Indonesia whilst Georgia is at its sunniest and most pleasant.
For those wishing to enjoy Canada’s west coast, the ideal month to travel is June where days are long and warm. It is a great time to visit the national parks of Alberta where lakes have thawed, hiking trails are open and wildflowers and wildlife start to emerge.
June sees the start of the dry season in Borneo. It is the most comfortable month to explore the rainforest and see orangutans, go diving along the pristine reefs and kick back on the island’s beautiful beaches. Expect temperatures of 29 °C and little threat of rain.
From the verdant interior and beautiful beaches of Bali to the temple-strewn island of Java, June is the best time to visit the diverse archipelago of Indonesia. Days are filled with warm sunshine and very little rain. It is also an excellent time to go diving, especially around the Gili Islands.
Georgia has a wealth of history and a fascinating cultural heritage. June sees long and sunny days and makes it a great time to visit this scenically impressive country of working vineyards, grand cathedrals, mighty mountain ranges and picturesque villages.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In July
In contrast to the rest of the island, the pristine beaches of Sri Lanka’s east coast are at their best in July. Likewise, July is also an ideal time to drive Route 66, head north into the remote wilds of Alaska or explore the vast wilderness of Mongolia.
A wild, remote and spectacularly beautiful frontier-land, Alaska is best visited in during the summer months when the days are long and the temperatures mild. Alaska offers some of the finest natural landscapes in America and is home to an incredible variety of wildlife including the mighty grizzly bear.
Whilst the western coast is still affected by the monsoon in July, the island’s beautiful East Coast of Sri Lanka is a great option for a warm and sunny Asian destination. Experience on of the many festivals that take place in summer and enjoy the sea’s perfect swimming conditions.
A country where almost half of the population maintain a nomadic lifestyle, rugged Mongolia is a place where traditions have remained unchanged for centuries. July is a fantastic month to visit Mongolia where the scenery is lush and green, and temperatures sit in the mid 20’s.
Get your kicks on Route 66 during an iconic road trip between Chicago and Los Angeles. July is an excellent month to drive the beloved ‘Mother Road’ – experience beautiful weather across all eight states as well as being able to visit all the quirky landmarks and attractions.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In August
August is a great time for cultural and art events throughout Europe including the annual Verona Opera Festival. The beautiful Balearic Islands are a great option for a family holiday or Romania is a great cultural option offering bucolic beauty and painted monasteries. Further afield, it is a great time to visit the east coast of Canada including Quebec and Ontario.
Home to some of the world's finest opera houses and only a short flight from the UK, Europe is the ideal place for an opera break. August is also home to some of the continent's best arts and cultural celebrations including the iconic Verona Arena Opera Festival.
From the picture-perfect beaches of Mallorca and the scenic traditional villages of Menorca to the bohemian beach bars of Ibiza and stunning panoramas of Formentera, the Balearics are a great and affordable option for a family holiday during August with guaranteed sunshine and calm waters.
May to October is the best time to visit eastern Canada, however August tends to be a lovely and warm month to travel. August is a great time to explore the quaint harbour towns of the Atlantic Coast, visit the charming cities of Quebec or experience the mighty Niagara Falls.
Famed for charming medieval towns and unspoiled countryside, monumental castles and a spirited capital, Romania is a welcoming year-round destination. Late August is a good time to visit Romania with warm but comfortable temperatures and little to no rainfall.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In September
September tends to be a quieter month especially in European destinations such as Greece and Turkey. Crowds have dispersed, the weather remains warm and prices are lower; making it an ideal time for a cultural holiday or relaxed beach break. Closer to home September is also a great time to visit Portugal or, for something a little different, discover Armenia.
Whist the hot weather continues to linger in September, the islands and beaches of Greece become less busy as the schools goes back. Long days are filled with sunshine and sea temperatures remain warm. September is also a great time to visit the beautiful Peloponnese region.
From the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts to Istanbul and central Turkey, September is a great time to visit this compelling country. Sea and land temperatures are still hot, making it a great option for a beach holiday, or an excellent time to explore Turkey’s ancient sights and landmarks.
With its good weather, fabulous food and drink, long coastline and beautiful scenery, Portugal is a year-round destination but is at its very best in September. Relax on the beaches of the Algarve, explore the picturesque streets of Lisbon, discover the wine houses of Porto or cruise the Douro River.
Located in the Caucasus region, Armenia can be visited throughout spring and autumn although September is a particularly good time to travel to the country. This is a land famous for its monasteries, churches and forts, however, it is also blessed with fabulous natural scenery and a charming capital city.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In October
October is a magical time to visit New England; experience the dazzling colours of autumn whilst exploring the region’s quaint coastline. Cambodia and Uzbekistan boast pleasant climates during October, perfect for visiting ancient sites and crumbling temples, and it is a great time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland.
Witness the breathtaking display of autumnal colours in New England during fall. October is the perfect time to explore the contrasting landscapes of this charming region as a plethora of leaves turn from green to amber and crimson. The sun continues to shine but the air is pleasantly cool.
The ancient kingdom of Cambodia is one of Southeast Asia’s most enchanting and compelling destinations. October sees the summer’s intense humidity and high temperatures disappear making it a great time to visit the country’s magical ancient temples and historic landmarks.
October is one of the best months to see the majestic - be in awe as the green and blue lights of the Aurora Borealis dance across the sky. Whilst temperatures start to drop and days get shorter, October also sees fewer visitors and a drop in accommodation prices.
After the heat of the summer months, October is an ideal time to travel to Uzbekistan with pleasantly warm days and little risk of rain. Uzbekistan is best known for its links to the Silk Road and the atmospheric ancient cities of Khiva, Bukhara and Samarkand have lost little of their grandeur.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In November
With Christmas around the corner, New York is a fabulous option for world class shopping. November is also a great month to explore the ancient ruins and sand dunes of Jordan. Rajasthan and Northern India is at its finest in November whereas Nepal boasts beautiful clear skies and good visibility for trekking.
With comfortable temperatures and little chance of rain, November is an excellent time to visit the cultural sites of Rajasthan and northern India. Highlights includes the grandiose fortified cities of Rajasthan, the temples of Khajuraho and Varanasi and the epic Mughal architecture of Agra.
Home to some of the finest cities in the world, Eastern USA is a region of incredible diversity. Possible to visit the year-round, November is a particularly good time to head to the east coast with fall colours still present and New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC still pleasant before the winter freeze.
Nepal is a pocket-sized, landlocked country of uncompromising beauty. During November, enjoy warm, sunny days in the ancient royal city of Kathmandu, experience the sunrise over the foothills and mountaintops of the Himalayas and go in search for the Bengal Tiger in Chitwan National Park.
The Middle East's gem of Jordan is awash with ancient treasures, striking landscapes and diverse cultures. November is a very pleasant time to visit Jordan and explore its remarkable landmarks such as Petra, with cooler temperatures and generally dry weather.
OUR BEST HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS BY MONTH
Where To Go On Holiday In December
December is a fantastic time to travel. Explore the tea plantations and wild beaches of Sri Lanka’s west coast, embark on a Mekong river cruise or discover the pristine wildlife reserves and strong indigenous cultures of North East India. Alternatively, head to the UAE and Dubai with its excellent hotels and endless entertainment.
The monsoon season has subsided along Sri Lanka’s south and western coasts and December sees hotter days and blue, sunny skies. Whilst the Cultural Triangle and Hill Country will still experience a little rain, overall December is a brilliant month to visit Sri Lanka.
Snaking its way through South East Asia, a cruise on the Mekong is one of the best ways to experience this wonderfully diverse part of the world. Mekong river cruises operate for several months of the year, however, December is considered an excellent time to visit this largely tropical region.
Dubai, and the UAE in general, is a fabulous destination for guaranteed winter sun. Set on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai combines tradition and modernity, a beautiful coastline with world class entertainment and a desert interior where a whole host of different activities can be undertaken.
Little visited, India’s north east is truly the country’s last frontier. Despite the cooler weather generally experienced during December, this is the month of Nagaland’s spectacular Hornbill Festival when the tribes of the region gather in a grand celebration of their cultural traditions.
