Faster and smarter in the app... Open app
Liechtenstein

Where to travel in January

Planning a new year getaway? Here are the top destinations to visit in January.

Lago de Atitlán | Guatemala

Pico | The Azores

Ponza | Italy

Baja California | Mexico

Dominican Republic

Boa Vista | Cape Verde

Liechtenstein

Lago de Atitlán | Guatemala

|
125th
Lago de Atitlán

Lago de Atitlán is the deepest lake in Central America and probably the most spectacular in the world. Surrounded by three imposing volcanoes, the mysterious waters shimmer and change colour throughout the day from deep green to dark blue, enchanting many backpackers to stay by the lake way longer than they had planned.

The villages dotted around the lake all offer something different. Party day and night in San Pedro La Laguna, then recover with a spot of meditation and yoga in the quieter San Marcos La Laguna.

If you can prize yourself away from the lake, visit Chichicastenango for a taste of authentic Mayan culture. Head there on market day and browse stalls filled with carved masks, huipil blouses and local products.


Pico | The Azores

|
11th
Pico Island, the Azores

Pico is very much Portugal's version of Tenerife – dominated by the jaw-dropping Mount Pico which is Portugal's highest peak. It's also the perfect spot for a bit of post-Christmas winter sun.

The island boasts a unique blend of natural wonders, from rugged lava fields to the vineyards intricately designed to make the most of the rich soil that's peppered with basalt rock. Then there's the azure waters that encircle the island, offering a striking contrast to the bright green flora that benefits from the fertile, volcanic soil. Perfect for whale watching and scuba diving, and home to the delicious seafood that influences the island's cuisine.

Soak up the slower pace of life and explore the rural communities, roll out your towel on the beach or hike the trails that wind up the slopes of Mount Pico for eye-popping views over the Atlantic.


Ponza | Italy

|
32nd
Ponza, Italy

Ponza, the largest island of the Italian Pontine Archipelago, offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, history, and Italian charm – perfect for a Mediterranean escape away from the crowds.

The island's jagged coastline is adorned with a mosaic of hidden coves, stunning blue grottoes, and secluded beaches accessible only by boat. Ponza's harbour, with its pastel-coloured buildings, bustling waterfront promenades, and chic boutiques, is absolutely enchanting and the perfect gateway to exploring the rest of the island.

Its rich history, from ancient Roman pools carved out of the seaside rocks to the legend of Homer's Odysseus, adds layers of intrigue to its stunning landscapes. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in Ponza's fresh seafood, traditional Italian dishes, and the local wine, best enjoyed with panoramic views of the Mediterranean.


Baja California | Mexico

|
93rd
Cabo San Lucas, Baja California Sur, Mexico

Baja California is one of the best destinations in the world for whale watching and January is one of the best times to go.

The majority of the world's population of grey whales return to mate and give birth around this time of the year. The whale watching here is exceptional as you can get up close to the incredibly friendly whales – there'll be no need to squint into the distance for a hopeful sighting.

If you tire of the sea, there are land-based delights to explore too. Baja California is a great region for wine thanks to the warm and dry climate. There are plenty of vineyards to tour, and of course plenty of wine to taste!


Dominican Republic

|
86th
Dominican Republic

January is one of the peak times to visit the Dominican Republic as it's the best time for some guaranteed sun, but if you step away from the popular resort areas you'll still find some quiet beaches to relax on.

It's not just about the beaches though. The Dominican Republic has 18 national parks and in recent years has been more committed to sustainability goals and the need to protect its unique environment for future generations.

One of the highlights of visiting the Dominican Republic in January is the chance to see Humpback Whales as they return to the warm waters of Samana Bay to mate and give birth. If you're lucky you might see the massive 40-tonne males jump out of the water in their attempts to snag themselves a mate.

If you're flying into Punta Cana don't miss the airport lounge on the way back – it has a pool overlooking the runway, so you can have one last dip while watching the planes take off.

Have a good winter sun trip

Want to get away this winter? These are our top picks for an ethical, sustainable and good trip to soak up some winter sun.

Have a good trip

Boa Vista | Cape Verde

|
58th

Looking to escape for some winter sun but bored of the Canary Islands? Head to Cape Verde instead.

This Atlantic archipelago is made up of 10 volcanic islands around 900 miles south of the Canaries, just off the coast of Africa. Cape Verde is imbued with a fascinating mix of west African and Portuguese culture and is largely unspoiled by mass tourism.

Where to go next?

Already been to the Canaries or want to try somewhere cheaper? Here's our handy list of holiday swaps for UK travellers' favourite destinations.

Change hassle-free

Liechtenstein

|
46th
Liechtenstein

Back in March 2024, the Liechtenstein government passed new laws legalising equal marriage. They finally come into effect on the first day of 2025, making January as good a time as any to visit.

Tiny but mighty, Liechtenstein is a winter wonderland that packs a serious punch. Sandwiched between Austria and Switzerland, this pint-sized gem turns into an Alpine paradise in January, with snow-capped peaks, twinkling forests, and villages straight out of a fairy tale.

Hit the slopes in Malbun, Liechtenstein's charming ski resort, where the powder is pristine and the vibe is as warm as the glühwein. Prefer a slower pace? Strap on snowshoes, glide down a sled run, or just soak in the jaw-dropping views over the frosty Alps.

Vaduz, the capital, is where culture meets cozy. Explore art-filled museums, wander cobbled streets, and gaze up at the cliffside castle that's pure storybook magic. Top it all off with cheesy fondue and buttery pastries that make every chilly day feel like a warm hug.

The top destinations for 2025

Haven't planned your big trip for 2025 yet? Here are our top picks for your next holiday.

Find out more...

Let's take the hassle out of your holiday.

Sign up to our mailing list for more articles like this plus exclusive money-saving offers on your holiday extras!

No need to worry about your data, we take your privacy seriously.