travel uk in january

Visiting London in January (All you need to know)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: July 25, 2024

If you’re thinking about visiting London in January this guide will tell you everything you need to know. This includes the sort of weather to expect, what to pack plus the best things to do in London in January and answers to frequently asked questions about visiting London in January.

So if you are wondering what to do and see in London in January or even if January is a good time to visit London… read on to find out.

Daylight hours

What to wear in london in january, is january a good time to visit london, does it snow in london in january, visit some of london’s famous museums and galleries, take in a show, take a hop on hop off bus tour of london, enjoy a food tour of borough market, check out views of london from the sky garden, take a leisurely stroll through the city’s parks, read more – monthly and seasonal guides to london.

Top 5 London Tours in January

• 🗝 TOWER OF LONDON – Ceremony of the Keys
• 🪄 HARRY POTTER STUDIOS – Making of Harry Potter Studio + HP walking tour of central London
• ⭐️ PRIVATE TOUR – Discover Real London black cab tour of London
• 🇬🇧 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
• 🥟 FOOD TOUR – Ultimate Food Tour of Borough Market

Visiting London in January – What to Expect

The weather in London in January is generally cold and rainy. The average high temperature is around 7°C (45°F), and the average low temperature is around 2°C (36°F). It is also common for there to be some snow during the month, especially in the outer suburbs of the city.

Rain is also a frequent occurrence in London in January, with an average of 15 rainy days during the month. It is important to dress warmly and bring an umbrella or raincoat if you plan to visit London in January.

In January, London experiences about 8-9 hours of daylight per day. Following the shortest day of the year (the winter solstice) on December 21st the days start to lengthen again so you can expect to see a little more daylight each day throughout January.

It is worth noting however that the days are still quite short. Sunrise occurs around 7:30-8:00 AM and sunset around 4:30-5:00 PM.

It is important to plan your activities accordingly and make sure to allow enough time for daylight if you are planning to be out and about in London at this time of year.

As I mentioned earlier the weather can be quite cold and damp in London in January so it is important to dress warmly. Layer clothes so you can adjust depending on the temperature and weather conditions. It may be cold outside but many shops and transportation options can be pretty hot.

I tend to wear a vest t-shirt, a long-sleeved thermal top and then a warm jacket/coat.

Some clothing options to consider include:

• A warm coat : A warm, water-resistant coat with a hood is essential for protecting against the cold and possible wet weather.
• Scarf, hat, and gloves: Essential items to keep your hands, neck and head warm and protected from the elements.
• Comfortable waterproof shoes or boots: It is important to have a good pair of shoes to keep your feet dry and warm in the wet and cold weather. Waterproof boots or shoes with good grip are recommended as the pavements can be icy and slippery in January.

Visiting London in January – FAQs

The advantages of visiting London in January (particularly after the New Year celebrations have finished and Christmas decorations are removed) include cheaper hotel prices and far fewer people than at other times of the year.

Ultimately deciding whether January is a good time to visit or not will depend on your personal preferences and what you hope to get out of your trip. If you don’t mind the cooler temperatures and are prepared for some rain, there are still plenty of things to see and do in London at this time of year.

January is the month when it is most likely to snow in London but even saying that it really isn’t a common occurrence. If you pack with the potential for snow in mind then you will be prepared!

Things to do in January in London

There are so many fabulous (and free) museums and galleries in London so what could be better than heading to one or more on a cold and/or wet day?

Whatever your interests there is a museum or gallery to explore. South Kensington is home to the Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum and Science Museum so you could effectively museum hop all day!

Read – London itinerary planner for museum lovers

Why not head to London’s famous West End for a play or musical? If you are in London in early January you may also have the opportunity to experience a Pantomime.

Shows available in January 2024 include:

• The Lion King at the Lyceum
• Back to the Future
• Les Miserables

Click here for more London theatre options!

Whatever the weather a hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to see London’s main sights, landmarks and attractions.

A bus tour is a perfect introduction to London and is a great way to get oriented with the city without being too tiring. And if the weather is a bit iffy then you can always stay on and enjoy the ride!

Operating since 1756, Borough Market has been feeding hungry Londoners for centuries and is today the most famous food market in London. It often features in movies or on TV and is packed with stalls and places to eat. 

A perfect way to visit and get the best out of the market is on a food tour such as this semi-private tour from Liv Tours . During the tour, you’ll try (amongst other tasty morsels) fish and chips, British cheeses and the city’s finest sausage rolls. You’ll also discover the history of the market and London’s role in the global food and drink scene. 

The Sky Garden is a public observation deck and garden which is located on the top floors of the Walkie-Talkie building in the City of London financial district.

From the Sky Garden, you can enjoy fantastic views of London (weather permitting) and enjoy a drink and a meal in the bar/restaurant.

The advantage of the Sky Garden(over the View from the Shard or the London Eye) is that it is free! Make your reservation online – bookings are available up to three weeks in advance.

Note – It is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike so don’t forget to make a reservation to avoid disappointment.

London’s beautiful parks and gardens are worth exploring even in the colder months. Popular options include Hyde Park, St. James’s Park, and Regent’s Park for some fresh air and the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the city even on a rainy day!

Read our other monthly and seasonal guides to visiting London

• Visiting London in February
• Visiting London in March
• Visiting London in April
• Visiting London in May
• Visiting London in June
• Visiting London in July
• Visiting London in August
• Visiting London in September
• Visiting London in October
• Visiting London in November
• Visiting London in December

Seasonal Guides

• London in Spring
• London in Summer
• London in Fall
• London in Winter

London Travel Guide & Itinerary Planner Ebook (+ 4 BONUS ebooks)

• 13 things to do and places to visit in the UK in January

Not many of us would vote January as our favourite month. But it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom once the festive season has come to an end.

The days might still be dark and chilly, but January marks the beginning of a new year and there are plenty of things that you can do to make it a month as exciting and enjoyable as the next.

With this in mind, here are 13 things to do and places to visit in the UK in January that’ll hopefully get you excited about the new year. From music and food, to stargazing and wildlife watching, we hope these ideas leave you feeling inspired.

1. Lose yourself in music at Celtic Connections, Glasgow

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Celtic Connections (@celtic_connections)

According to The Guardian, “If there’s something that makes wintertime in Glasgow great, it’s Celtic Connections” . Celtic Connections is an annual folk, roots, and world music festival that celebrates Glasgow’s links to other cultures across the globe.

With over 2,100 musicians covering more than 300 events across multiple genres of music, the city is brought to life for 18 magical days.

As well as world-class concerts, you can also expect talks, art exhibitions, workshops, and ceilidhs (traditional music, singing, dancing, and storytelling events).

Celtic Connections will run from 18th January to 4th February 2024.

Z Glasgow, Scotland*

United Kingdom | 1 nights | Book with Tripsmiths

Malmaison, Glasgow, Scotland*

Kimpton blythswood square hotel, glasgow, scotland*.

From £199pp

2. Go wildlife watching, UK-wide

Winter is a wonderful time to immerse yourself in nature and do some wildlife watching.

The bare trees make woodland creatures easier to spot; birds begin to arrive for the winter months; and a number of unique creatures appear on the coast. Plus, with fewer crowds than during the summer months, you’re likely to get a better view.

Here in the UK, we’re blessed with beautiful landscapes that are home to amazing wildlife. And while some winter wildlife only appears in specific areas – for example, migrant coastal birds – you may be pleasantly surprised just how much nature can be found on your doorstep.

To see what’s near you, check out the National Trust’s list of  best places to spot winter wildlife . Whether you head to Norfolk’s Blakeney National Nature Reserve to spot grey seal pups; go birdwatching in Wembury , Devon; or try and spot the elusive pine marten in Crom , County Fermanagh – wildlife watching is a fun and highly-rewarding winter activity.

Lincombe Hall Hotel, Torquay, Devon*

Berry head hotel, brixham, devon*.

From £110pp

Osborne Hotel, Torquay, Devon*

3. immerse yourself in art at the london art fair, london.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by London Art Fair (@londonartfair)

If you have a passion for art, you might be interested in attending the London Art Fair this January.

Each year, the London Art Fair welcomes over 100 leading galleries specialising in modern and contemporary art. Selected from both the UK and abroad, these galleries represent some of the best established and emerging artists in this field.

Expect to see works by internationally renowned artists like Andy Warhol, Charlotte Keates, and David Hockey; as well as a rising collection of new talent.

The 2024 programme promises to bring visitors into conversation with the art world, featuring everything from live performances to immersive installations and a captivating lineup of talks and tours. You can find out more in the London Art Fair 2024 programme .

The London Art Fair is held at Islington’s Business Design Centre and will take place between 17th and 21st January 2024.

The Zetter Townhouse, Marylebone, London*

From £283.00pp

The Z Hotel, Holborn, London*

Middle eight, covent garden, london*.

From £279pp

4. Browse the stalls at the award-winning St George’s Market, Belfast

If you’re in the mood to shop and eat good food this January, why not head to the award-winning St George’s Market in Belfast?

Built between 1890 and 1896, St George’s Market is the last surviving Victorian market in Belfast. It’s won awards for its fresh, local produce, and buzzing atmosphere – and was voted the UK’s best large indoor market in 2023.

With around 300 traders, food vendors, and an electric atmosphere, it’s the ideal location for foodies and creatives alike.

St George’s Market is open to the public every week from Friday to Sunday, and each day has a different offering. Friday’s variety market, which dates back to 1604, hosts around 200 market stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to books, antiques, and clothes. Saturday is a city food and craft market; and, on Sundays, you can enjoy live music as you browse the stalls of local craftsmen.

The Belfast Food Tours also begin at the market and take you on a four-hour food-filled tour of some of the best food and drink spots in the city.

Belfast City Holidays*

Northern Ireland | 3 nights | Book with easyJet holidays

Unbeatable prices. Book with a £60pp deposit, with option to spread cost for free.

From £157pp

5. Stargaze at Kynance Cove, Cornwall

Located on the west side of the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, Kynance Cove is a National Trust Go Stargazing Site.

Due to its low light pollution levels and distance from nearby cities and towns, Kynance Cove is an excellent location to spot stars.

It’s usually extremely busy during the summer months, so why not skip the crowds and take a trip in January instead?

Alternatively, if Kynance Cove is too far away from you, there are plenty of other fantastic stargazing spots to enjoy across the UK. And for guidance on what to look out for, our introduction to stargazing is worth a read.

Talland Bay Hotel, Looe, Cornwall*

From £120pp

Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay, Cornwall*

From £210pp

The Alverton, Truro, Cornwall*

From £98.00pp

6. Celebrate Hen Galan, North Pembrokeshire

While the rest of us celebrate the New Year on 1st January, for those in Cwm Gwaun, a small wooded valley near Fishguard, Pembrokeshire, ‘Hen Galan’ falls on 13th January. In Welsh, hen means ‘old’ and calan means ‘first day of the month’.

When the ancient Julian calendar was formally abolished in 1752 and replaced with the Gregorian calendar, the people of Gwaun Valley resisted the change – a tradition kept alive to this day.

For many in the area, Hen Galan today is a celebration to rival Christmas – with singing, gift-giving, and a delicious feast – often at a pub. So if you’re looking for another round of celebrations to lift your spirits this January, why not immerse yourself in Welsh culture and take a trip to Pembrokeshire for Hen Galan?

Twr y Felin Hotel, St Davids, Pembrokeshire*

From £166.00pp

Trefloyne Manor, Tenby, Pembrokeshire*

From £140pp

Roch Castle, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire*

7. discover the city of caves, nottingham.

Hidden deep below the streets of Nottingham is the UK’s largest network of caves.

Here, you can soak in the extraordinary atmosphere of over 800 ancient caves, which were first recorded during the ninth-century Viking occupation. They also went on to serve as a medieval tannery and World War II air raid shelter, and you can really feel the history here.

Due to the confined nature of the caves, entry times are staggered, so it’s advisable to book tickets ahead of time.

8. Go skiing in the Cairngorms, Scottish Highlands

Cairngorm Mountain, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park , is Scotland’s favourite mountain destination – and the ski area here is the ultimate winter playground.

With over 30km of piste runs, 10 surface lifts, and freestyle terrain, the Cairngorms are the perfect place for beginners and experts alike to enjoy an unforgettable winter snowsports experience.

Alternatively, if skiing isn’t for you, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy your time here. From picturesque walking trails to the Mountain Garden, which offers spectacular viewpoints for spotting local wildlife, it’s a great chance to breathe in some fresh January air.

Inverlochy Castle Hotel, Fort William, Scottish Highlands*

From £225pp

Isle of Eriska Hotel, Spa & Island, Scottish Highlands*

From £306pp

Kinloch Lodge, Skye, Scottish Highlands*

From £430pp

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9. Enjoy a day out at Immersive Gamebox, UK-wide

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Immersive Gamebox (@immersive.gamebox)

If you’d prefer to do an indoor activity this winter, why not head to Immersive Gamebox?

Here you can try your hand at a range of hi-tech arcade-style games and challenges that will test your memory and trivia knowledge, and pit you in a race against time. With motion tracking, projection mapping, a surround sound system, and touch screens, this is a one-of-a-kind sensory experience.

Immersive Gamebox is perfect for families, groups of friends, and couples – just remember, you’ll have to work as a team!

Immersive Gamebox has locations in London, Essex, Manchester, and Yorkshire, which you can browse  here . Alternatively, if none of these locations work for you,  Otherworld offers very similar experiences. Otherworld currently has locations in London and Birmingham, and will be opening in Manchester, Edinburgh, and Dublin soon.

Wren Urban Nest, Dublin*

Ireland | 1 nights | Book with Tripsmiths

From £109.00pp

The Lowry Hotel, Manchester*

From £143.00pp

10. Take a trip to Thermae Bath Spa, Bath

Thermae Bath Spa is Britain’s only natural thermal spa. The baths continue to flow with natural hot water throughout winter – which can offer a welcome dose of warmth during the colder months.

With a luxury spa, peaceful cafe, and rooftop pool, a trip to Thermae Bath Spa is an excellent way to kick back and enjoy something a bit different this winter – whether you decide to book a relaxing massage, enjoy the naturally warm and mineral-rich waters, or marvel at the breathtaking views across Bath’s skyline.

Note: Thermae Bath Spa will be closed for maintenance from Thursday 4th to Friday 12th January 2023.

The Queensberry Hotel, Bath*

From £171pp

The Roseate Villa, Bath*

From £145pp

No.15, Bath*

From £195pp

11. Visit a cosy pub, UK-wide

Pubs are a cherished part of the UK landscape – and during the winter months, they offer an especially welcome place to cosy up, enjoy a hearty meal, and chat over a drink or two.

You could set a particular pub as the end-point of a brisk winter’s walk, or plan a trip to one which has great reviews for their Sunday roast.

If you’re not sure where to go, why not try one of the pubs listed in our article; 12 historic pubs to visit across the UK ?

Minster Mill Hotel & Spa, Witney, Cotswolds*

Salthouse harbour hotel, ipswich, suffolk*.

From £188pp

12. Get involved with celebrations for Burns Night, UK-wide

View this post on Instagram A post shared by VisitScotland (@visitscotland)

Burns Night is one of Scotland’s most cherished celebrations, held in honour of famous Scottish poet, Robert Burns.

Burns was born on 25th January 1759, so Burns Night is held on this date each year. It typically involves a ‘Burns supper’ where you can expect to enjoy plenty of poetry, haggis, and whisky tasting – and, of course, lots of fun and laughter.

You can find out more about what to expect from celebrating Burns Night on the  Visit Scotland website .

If Scotland is too far afield for you, Burns Night celebrations are held across the UK too. Some of the best places to celebrate are London ,  Manchester , and  Birmingham .

Alternatively, if you’d prefer to stay home, check out  this guide to celebrating Burns Night at home from Taste Talk, which covers everything from food and drink to music.

13. Make a New Year’s resolution vision board

January marks the beginning of a new year – a time when many of us like to set goals for the months ahead.

However, with surveys revealing that less than 30% of us manage to keep our resolutions up for the year, it’s worth considering what you can do to stay motivated.

Some people find it useful to make a New Year’s resolution vision board. Studies have found that writing down and visualising our goals can lead to a greater belief that we’ll succeed. Vision boards are also a fantastic way to get creative and spend a cosy day indoors. Check out our article, How to create an inspiring vision board , for ideas on how to get started.

If you’re not sure what resolutions to make, our article, 12 New Year’s resolutions that aren’t just for January , might give you some ideas. From setting physical and mental health goals, to decluttering your home and learning a new skill – stick to some of these and 2024 could be your best year yet.

Final thoughts…

Because it marks the end of the festive season, January is sometimes given a bad wrap. But with so many fun things to do this month, there’s plenty of ways to start the beginning of 2024 on a high note.

From wildlife watching and relaxing spas to food markets and art fairs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this month.

For more inspiration, check out our collection of ideas for days out in the UK in the travel section of our website.

What plans do you have for January? Have any of the ideas from our list taken your fancy? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Francesca Williams is a lifestyle writer at Rest Less. She joined Rest Less in early 2021 after achieving a first-class degree in History at the University of Sheffield and qualifying as an NCTJ Gold Standard Journalist. Francesca writes across a range of lifestyle topics, specialising in health, history, and art and culture. In her spare time, Francesca likes to keep herself busy and enjoys going on walks, playing netball, going to the gym, getting involved with her local church, and socialising with friends and family.

* Links with an * by them are affiliate links which help Rest Less stay free to use as they can result in a payment or benefit to us. You can read more on how we make money here .

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When is the best time to visit the UK? (Seasonal & monthly guide)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 8, 2023

Are you planning a trip to the UK but unsure of the best time of year to visit? In this article discover what each season has to offer as well as a month by month guide to major events across the UK. Everything you need to know to help you make the right decision for your trip.

If you’re dreaming of having a spot of tea in England or envisioning a bagpipe serenade on the moors of Scotland, then it sounds like you’re on the verge of planning one heck of a British vacation. The question is, when is the best time to visit the UK?

There are many considerations to make when planning your trip , including the pros and cons of travelling “in season,” what types of activities you want to do and especially what kind of weather should you expect.

In this article, we will answer all commonly asked questions including

• what you can expect from the weather during each season
• the dates of school and public holidays – and the pros and cons of travelling during these peak times
• expected hours of daylight throughout the year and the impact this can have on your plans
• what (and when) major events occur throughout the year
• plus a guide to the best time to visit England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

FAQ’s about the best time of year to visit the UK

Many questions about when is the best time to visit the UK invariably revolve around the weather. The only certainty about the UK weather is that is unpredictable.

• When is winter in the UK?

The winter months ranges from mid-November to early March.

• When is summer in the UK?

The summer months range from early June to the end of August.

• Can I see the Northern Lights in the UK?

For the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) head to to Northern Scotland.

• What is the rainiest month in the UK?

Although December to February are the months that tend to have the most rainfall in the UK (and often can fall as snow especially on higher ground) expect rain at any time of year.

• What is the hottest month of the year in the UK?

During the summer months expect generally warm to hot weather with July (on average) the month with the highest average temperatures.

• When is peak season in the UK?

Peak season in the UK is July and August. This also coincides with school holidays across the country.

• When is the shoulder season in the UK?

Shoulder season in the UK is May, June and September.

• When are the major public holidays in the UK?

In addition to Christmas, New Year and Easter holidays there are a number of public holidays (called ‘Bank” holidays) throughout the year including May Day Bank Holiday (first Monday in May), Spring Bank Holiday (last Monday in May – and yes there are two Bank Holiday weekends in May!), and the Summer Bank Holiday (last Monday in August)

• FAQ's about the best time of year to visit the UK

The weather

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Factors to consider when planning your trip

• Pros and cons of travelling during Peak Season, Shoulder Season or Low Season
• The impact of daylight hours

The UK is a small island divided into 4 separate nations — England , Wales , Northern Ireland and Scotland . Each has their own cultural identities and attractions to consider, not to mention their own weather idiosyncrasies.

Basically though, the entire UK has a temperate climate with warm summers that never get too hot and cold winters that never get too cold.

The UK weather is, however, famously unreliable and generally not the primary reason to visit the UK! Think about your many clothing options when packing— and don’t forget the umbrella (my UK packing guide for every season will help!)

The answer to the question, ‘When is the best time of year to visit the UK?’ really depends on what you’re looking for. The UK’s warmest weather is in the summer. Autumn and spring are charming but may be a little bit chilly for certain outdoor activities. Winter can be cold, blustery and damp, though it usually only snows around 24 days out of the year.

Spring in the UK begins in March and goes through to the end of May. The weather starts off cold and rainy but becomes more mild as the months progress. Finally, by the end of May and beginning of June, the UK starts to warm up. The average maximum temperatures are as follows:

• March, 12°C (54°F)
• April, 15°C (59°F)
• May, 18°C (64°F)
• June, 21°C (70°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in spring

The summer is generally very pleasant in the UK and tends to be dryer than in the autumn and winter months. The summer begins in June and ends in early September. The average maximum temperatures for the summer months are as follows:

• July, 23°C (73°F)
• August, 23°C (73°F)
• September, 20°C (68°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in summer

Autumn goes from September through to the end of November. Days change from crisp to blustery and then get downright cold. There tends to be a higher level of precipitation during these months as well. The average maximum temperatures for the autumn months are as follows:

• October, 16°C (61°F)
• November, 12°C (54°F)
• December, 9°C (48°F)

It can get rather bleak and cold in the UK during the winter months, which go from the start of December through to the end of February. The average maximum temperatures for the UK in winter months are as follows:

• January, 9°C (48°F)
• February, 9°C (48°F)

Read – Complete Guide to visiting the UK in winter

Peak season for travel in the UK are the summer months of July and August. These dates also coincide with the long 6 week summer school holidays (and hopefully sunny weather)

What are the pros of visiting the UK during peak season?

• The UK weather is generally at its best during these months.
• Hours of daylight are long which means more time to explore the sights.
• Some of the UK’s major events occur during July (Wimbledon) and August (Edinburgh Festival)
• Many historic sights have special events on especially for families e.g jousting at Warwick Castle.

What are the cons of traveling during peak season?

• It is the most expensive time of year to visit and prices for flights, accommodation and transportation can be sky-high.
• Main attractions across the country are busy – buy tickets ahead of time (skip the line tickets are worth the expense unless you enjoy wasting precious holiday time in a queue!)
• Restaurants and hotels are jam-packed.
• Roads are busy and traffic jams are common which can add to the stress if you are planning to hire a car for a road trip

Shoulder season in the UK is in May, early June, September and early October.

What are the pros of visiting the UK during shoulder season?

• Less expensive than peak season
• Better availability for accommodation
• Some of the UK’s most popular events occur during these months such as the Chelsea Flower Show (May), Trooping of the Colour (June)
• Less crowded (though the Bank holidays can be busy)
• There are 2 public (bank) holidays in May (first and last Mondays of May) and many popular historical sights organize events especially for families over these long weekends.
• Expect fewer crowds at popular attractions (though school groups may visit museums, art galleries, and castles during term time)
• Long daylight hours

November through to April is generally considered to be the low season for travel to the UK.

Note that some parts of the UK such as London and Edinburgh experience significant numbers of tourists during December and early January which can significantly impact costs.

Pros of visiting the UK during the low season

• Budget friendly
• Less crowded
• Enjoy special events over the festive period including Christmas markets, Christmas lights and decorations in major cities and New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Cons of visiting the UK during the low season

• Weather can be very cold (expect snow during the winter months)
• Daylight hours are reduced (it can get dark as early as 3.30 pm)
• Many popular attractions are closed over the winter months.

The amount of daylight you can expect fluctuates greatly across the year and can have a major impact on your plans.

The amount of daylight can also vary depending on your destination within the UK. The further north you travel the more daylight you can expect in summer and the less in winter.

Average hours of daylight in June (longest day)

London – 16 hours +

Scotland – 17 hours +

Average hours of daylight in December (shortest day)

London – 8 hours

Scotland – 7 hours

First of all, there’s no bad time to visit England , though travelling during every season has its advantages and disadvantages. You can, however, expect some seasonal variation in prices, crowd size and availability of activities.

The summer is the peak tourist season, which is from the end of May to early September. The daylight hours are at their maximum, up to 16 hours per day. The weather is usually delightful and kids are off school (July and August). The inevitable consequence is that everyone starts flocking to the tourist destinations and adding to the already long lines and crowds.

If you dream of gallivanting through the English countryside, add throngs of people sharing the roads and limited parking to your vision. Unfortunately, hotel rates and airfare are usually more expensive in the summer. Still, that charming weather can be a lure that outweighs all of those inconveniences.

If you travel in winter, it may be cold and bleak, and the daylight hours will have waned to just 8 to 10 hours per day. That’s the bad news. The good news is you won’t have to fight any crowds or struggle to get a dinner reservation. There will also be deals to be had on hotel rooms and flights. So if your itinerary contains a lot of indoor activities, maybe winter travel is right for you.

If you’re wondering when is a good time to visit London , it’s similar to travelling in the rest of the UK in terms of weather and seasonal availability. There are a few exceptions, however.

Christmas time in the capital city has been an incredibly popular destination for decades, what with the shopping, the decorations and abundant Christmassy charm.

If however you are a royal watcher, consider traveling in the summer when there are more opportunities to have a peek into the royal lifestyle . Many royal residences are open to the public during the summer because the royals themselves are away on vacation.

Taking all of this into consideration, if you want to know when the best time is to visit England, the answer is (if you can) spring or autumn. During these times the weather is favourable and the daylight hours vary from 11 to 15 hours per day, so there’ll be plenty of time for sightseeing.

Taking a road trip through the English countryside (the Cotswolds , Lake District , Peak District or Northumberland are just two suggestions) is gorgeous in the spring or autumn because either the flowers are blooming or the leaves are turning brilliant shades of orange and yellow. While there are crowds they are smaller and more manageable than in the peak summer season.

Just like it did for England, the timing of your Scotland trip depends upon what you activities have planned. The country’s winter may be more suited to hunkering down in an Edinburgh pub rather than hiking through the Highlands. The average temperature hovers around 0°C (32°F) and is likely to be even colder on the coast and in higher attitudes.

Like England, airfares and hotel rooms will generally be cheaper and you won’t have to fight the crowds in the cities or in the train stations. You will, however, need to be ready for the reduced daylight hours. In January, for example, the sun rises at 8:47 a.m. and sets at 3:53 p.m.

There is good news, though. Because of Scotland’s high latitude and particularly dark winter nights, there’s a chance that you will be treated to the aurora borealis or the northern lights — a dazzling and somewhat ethereal light show in the sky.

A summer trip to Scotland is defined by pros and cons.

The pros — you’ll have lovely weather, as it never gets too terribly hot in Scotland. Temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). The daylight hours are also long. In August, for example, the sun rises at 4:22 a.m. and sets at 8:03 p.m.

There will be a lot to do, like hiking, camping, driving tours, beautiful train journeys , exploring the cities, islands and the countryside.There are festivals for every taste, such as the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival  in Inverness.

Now for some cons — July and August are peak months for travel, and the crowds will be significantly larger and the prices will be higher. If you don’t mind competing for a little space and paying more for the privilege, then a summer trip may just be the perfect one for you.

As with England, visiting Scotland in the late spring/early summer or early autumn is ideal. By June, Scotland gets an amazing 17 hours of daylight. That combined with the spring’s pleasant weather, an average of 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F), and you will be able to conquer every outdoor activity there is to offer.

If you would prefer to spend your time in Scotland’s cities, the good news is that the summer tourists haven’t arrived yet, so lines won’t be as long and the prices will be more reasonable. The same thing is true for an autumn visit. Starting in November through middle December, airfares tend to be cheaper.

Early autumn is an ideal time of year to drive North Coast 500 , a spectacular 516-mile trip from Inverness along Scotland’s North Highlands that might be one of the most scenic drives in the world.

No matter when you visit Wales , remember, the weather can be unpredictable and you should pack well and be prepared for a variety of temperatures.

The temperature in winter averages 6°C (43°F), but compared to Scotland, there is a good amount of daylight — sunrise is around 7:40 a.m. and sunset is around 6:28 p.m. In spite of the cooler weather, daffodils have been known to make their cheerful appearance late in the winter.

Another plus, if you travel on or near March 1st, you can join the locals in celebrating St. David’s Day. The patron saint of Wales is feted with parades, traditional Welsh dress and plenty of delicious food, not to mention scores of daffodils and leeks.

The summer is a lovely time to visit, as the weather is very agreeable, although the region can get quite a bit of rain. There is between 15-16 hours of daylight during the summer. Temperatures average 16 °C (61 °F), so hiking and camping would be fantastic during this time, as would any coastal family trips.

If you wish to see the Atlantic Puffins take over the island of Skomer, then early July is the time to go, especially if you want to see them parenting their new chicks.

Summer is the busiest time of year, so expect higher prices and be prepared to book well in advance for hotels (and popular Welsh castle hotel stays ), air travel, restaurants and activities.

The late spring and early autumn are great times to go to Wales. There are between 13 and 16 hours of daylight during both seasons. The temperature usually hovers around 13°C (55°F). In May and June, flowers will be blooming in a riot of colors, making the already breathtaking scenery fully come to life.

The Wales Coast Path, an 870-mile long footpath that winds its way along the coastline, makes for a perfect hike during this time. For something a little different, check out The Laugharne Weekend in West Wales — a local, literary and arts celebration of Dylan Thomas and other writers, musicians and comedians who’ve come from Wales.  

In the autumn, the mountains and valleys look to be on fire with all shades of gold and orange, and the nights begin to get crisp with a touch of chill. Places like Hay-on-Wye, a charming market town on the River Wye become even more magical in the autumn.

There will also be plenty of seasonal activities, such as at the medieval Powis Castle and Garden. Each year they create the Powis pumpkin trail, where kids can search for the carved pumpkins hidden throughout the garden.

If spending a night in a Welsh castle is on your bucket list why not book one of these amazing Welsh castle hotels ?

If you wish to visit Northern Ireland when the temperatures are at their warmest, then go during July and August. The average temperature in the summer is 17°C (63°F), but beware because summertime is also when the country’s rainfall is at its peak.

The summer in Northern Ireland has amazingly long daylight hours, 5:00 a.m. to 10:00pm, so you’ll be able to pack in a lot of activities. It is the peak season, which means you’ll be fighting the crowds as you see the sights.

Also, keep in mind, summer vacations for their school children start a few weeks earlier than they do in England, meaning the tourist sites may be more crowded starting at the end of June.

In winter, Northern Ireland is a little colder than England and has about 7-8 hours of daylight. That won’t matter too much if you seek out Belfast’s St. George’s Market, Northern Ireland’s last surviving Victorian market. In December, they offer twilight days for evening shopping. There will also be crafts from local artisans, delightful food and family entertainment.

Like with the other UK regions, you get the best of everything by visiting in the spring or autumn. By late spring, you’ll start to see lambs and calves in the pastures as the temperatures rise to between 10°C (50°C) to 16°C (60°F).

Visit Rathlin Island in the late spring and you’ll see all kinds of nesting birds and the area’s famous puffins. Also, for those festival fans, check out the two-day Bushmills Salmon and Whiskey festiva l held in early June.

In the autumn, as the leaves are changing colors, it’s a perfect time to visit the Glens of Antrim, or known locally simply as The Glens. It’s a region of County Antrim known for it’s astonishing natural beauty.

In October, the Glens Storytelling Festival is a five-day event for tourists and locals alike to experience the magic of this area’s story telling traditions. Expect family-friendly stories to have a touch of Halloween magic.

Which is the best month to visit the UK? Month by month pros and cons + guide to all the major events in the UK

❄️ Visiting the UK in winter

🌷 Visiting the UK in spring

☀️ Visiting the UK in the summer

🍂 Visiting the UK in autumn

🧣 Visiting Scotland in winter

January in the UK falls within the low tourist season, which creates some distinct advantages for travellers. Students return to school and the cold weather, gloomy skies and waning daylight translate into fewer people, cheaper hotel rooms and inexpensive airfare.

Also, the after-Christmas sales are in full swing, so bargain hunters will have a field day shopping. Theatre tickets and restaurant reservations will also be easier to get. A January trip is sounding better and better. Here are some fun things to do in January:

• New Year’s Day Parade in London —This is a fabulous, free and family-friendly parade in the city’s West End. It’s three and a half hours of music and revere that won’t soon be forgotten.

• Simplyhealth Great Edinburgh Winter Run— If you’re in Scotland and are a fitness buff, join 3000 other hardcore health nuts for this 5k of fun that also affords fantastic views of the city.

• Big Burns Supper in Dumfries Scotland— Part of the country’s Burns Night, this event occurs in the latter half of the month and offers all sorts of venues with everything from comedy to cabaret.

February in the UK falls securely within low season for travellers, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an absolutely fantastic vacation if you choose to travel then. If you don’t mind cooler weather, the seaside towns should be virtually empty, for example.

Keep in mind that UK schools have a half-term break in February, which may cause unexpected crowds at tourist sites. Here are some fun things to do in February:

• V alentine’s Day in London —A visit to multiple artisan chocolate shops would definitely be in order, as would a romantic dinner for two in one of London’s many fine-dining restaurants.

• The Orchid Festival at London’s Kew Gardens —If you adore flowers and don’t want to travel all the way to Indonesia, then this show is not to be missed. There will be over 5000 species of orchids to admire.

• London’s Classic Car Show in Olympia Exhibition Centre —You’ll see some of the finest and most collectable vintage models in the world.

Flowers will be just beginning to bloom throughout the UK, a promise that spring is just around the corner.

March is a shoulder season for tourists, which means it’s not too busy and not too light. So you can throw on a coat and start taking advantage of some of the outdoor fun that the UK has to offer. Here are some fun things to do in March:

• Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race in London — When is the best time to travel to England? When there are 250,000 screaming rowing fans cheering on the edge of the Thames. This is one of the largest sporting events held in London and it’s free! (Sometimes this event happens in April, so check online to see.)

• Glasgow International Comedy Festival —Are you a comedy fan? In the latter half of March, travel to Scotland and see the funniest stars from all around the UK hit the stage in what is Europe’s largest comedy festival.

• St. Patrick’s Day in Northern Ireland —On March 17th, County Armagh and County Down host the annual Home of Saint Patrick Festival that consists of concerts, family-friendly activities and general fun.

Ah, April. The flowers are blooming and the days are getting longer. It’s a shoulder season, so it’s a pretty good time to enjoy the natural beauty that the UK has to offer without having to brave too many crowds.

Students in the UK have a school break around Easter, which usually falls in this month, so that may alter the tourist scene slightly. Regardless, there are also a lot of fun, local activities to choose from. Here are some examples:

• Isle of Wight Walking Festival —Fun for all ages and all fitness levels. Thousands of locals and tourists alike explore the island and take in its stark, scenic beauty.

• Shakespeare’s Birthday in Stratford-upon-Avon —Celebrate The Bard’s birthday by traveling to his birthplace for performances, music and all kinds of fun.

• Cardiff Flower Show —If you’re a gardener or a flower appreciator and are planning to be in Wales, you might want to visit the Royal Horticultural Society’s Cardiff Flower Show. There are countless exhibits and demonstrations to inspire and fascinate those with or without a green thumb.

The weather is getting ever warmer and the days are getting longer in the UK, yet May is still a shoulder season, which means its an excellent time to visit. Things can get busy over the Bank holiday weekends with many Brits enjoying a spring staycation .

It’s also getting dryer, so rain may not be as much of an issue as it is in other months. Still, bring a few layers to wrap up in, just in case. Here are some fun things to do in May:

• Chelsea Flower Show – Since 1913, except during the two world wars, the famous Chelsea Flower Show has been a glamorous affair celebrating British flowers and garden design. It takes place on the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea and makes for a fun and historical activity whilst in the UK.

• Gloucester Docks Tall Ship Festival — Come see tall ships in all of their splendor along with fun and games for the whole family. There will be live stages with local bands as well as a food market

• Gordon Castle Highland Games and Country Fair – Join over 10,000 locals and tourists at Scotland’s only highland games and country fair. It’s at the magnificent Gordon Castle located near Fochabers in Moray.

The middle of June marks the beginning of peak season for traveling in the UK, so make sure you’ve got those reservations, tickets and bookings well ahead of time.

You have an excellent chance of pleasant weather and agreeable temperatures, so live it up! Here are some fun things to do in June:

• Glastonbury Festival — This world-famous five-day festival takes place in Pilton, Somerset, in the south west of England. It features big-name contemporary musical acts as well as dance, cabaret and theater.

• Gregynog Music Festival — Attention classical music lovers! In the gorgeous Welsh countryside in the village of Tergynon, you’ll find the oldest classical music festival in Wales, which attracts some of the world’s finest musicians.

• The Royal Highland Show — Scotland’s largest agricultural show put on by the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland. Thousands of visitors come from all over the globe to see over 1000 exhibitors and scores of livestock. It’s in Ingliston, an area of West Edinburgh.

July is peak travel season with very long days and probably the best weather offered by the UK. Restaurants will be jam-packed and tourist sites will be overflowing with visitors.

Add in the students who have just been released from school on summer break and you will have a lot of people to contend with. No wonder there is a lot going on the UK during the summer! Here are some examples:

• Wimbledon — In a town called Wimbledon, there’s a little yearly tennis tournament. Actually, it’s probably the most major tournament in the tennis world.

Good to know – If you want to do it on the cheap, go outside the stadium to Henman Hill and buy a £30 ticket to watch the matches on a giant TV. If you want the real thing, then you’ll need to shell out quite a bit more, depending on which match you see.

• The Big Cheese at Caerphilly — History buffs, would you like to be sent back to medieval days at Caerphilly Castle ? See reenactments and battles, along with entertainment, food, period dance and a whole lot of fun.

The weather is warm, so that distracts you from the peak season crowds traveling throughout the UK. All schools are enjoying summer break, so expect to be shoulder to shoulder with locals and tourists alike at all the tourist sites.

Here are some fun things to do in August:

• Wilderness Festival —Located in Oxfordshire’s Cornbury Park, this festival offers easy-going music, theatrical productions, amazing food and really cool art, all in a gorgeous lakeside setting.

• Edinburgh Fringe Festival — If you like crowds, music and having serious fun, then try out the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest arts festival. It goes on for days and hosts so much talent, it takes hundreds of venues just to fit everything in. Check their website to see the list of performers.

• The National Eisteddfod — A festival celebrating all things Welsh . It’s in the first 8 days of August and there is food, music, arts and design.

The beginning of September is part of the summer peak season but with the end of summer and beginning of autumn, the rest of the month is a shoulder season.

Most students head back to school early in September, so vacationers return home and tourist sites will be less crowded. Here are some fun things to do in September:

• The Jane Austen Festival — Do you dream of spending a quiet evening with Mr. Darcy or Elizabeth Bennet? Travel to Bath and spend 10 days choosing from over 80 Jane Austen-related events. There’s even a Regency Costumed Masked Ball!

• Culture Night Belfast – For the past several years, in the second half of September, people hit the Belfast streets from City Hall to the Cathedral Quarter to enjoy a free celebration of art, language and history of Northern Ireland. There is something to do for all ages.

There’s a crisp autumn chill in the air and Halloween ghosts and goblins are just around the corner. The beginning of October is a shoulder season, and by the end, it slows down into low season. Still, there are lots of interesting things to tackle in the UK during October.

• Harwich International Shanty Festival – For those who can’t resist the call of that salty ocean air, sail on over to Harwich and sing an old song of the sea. There’ll be concerts and barge trips and crafts for the saltiest old sailors to the youngest of landlubbers.

• The Callander Jazz and Blues Festival — Who doesn’t enjoy jazz in a charming rural setting? In 2006, this festival was born and has grown larger every year. It’s a long weekend of all types of music in a variety of venues. You’ll see live blues, jazz, boogie and soul from a huge variety of artists.

This is the low season for travel in the UK. The weather is brisk and it’s best to remember to bring a bunch of comfy layers and a jacket in your suitcase. Here are some fun things to do in November:

• Guy Fawkes Night —This celebration marks the night back in 1605 when Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the Houses of Parliament. He did not succeed, and the anniversary has traditionally been remembered with a bonfire. Given that could easily get out of hand, most celebrations have switched to fireworks.

• Diwali on Trafalgar Square – Diwali is the festival of lights celebrated by Hindu, Jain and Sikh people all over the world. This one is the biggest in the UK and features amazing dancers in stunningly beautiful and colorful dress. Expect to see market stalls with amazing food, as well as crafts and fun activities for the whole family.

Yes, it’s pretty chilly in the UK during December, and the days have grown a wee bit short. There’s still a lot to love about this winter month. Keep in mind, that students in the UK usually have the final weeks in December off, so that could affect the crowd levels.

The weeks closest to Christmas are considered a peak tourist season, so there are many Christmas activities to choose from including festive markets all over the UK.

• Belfast Giants Ice Hockey — For something really different, grab the whole family, live like a local and check out an ice hockey game. Their website has all the information about tickets and times.

• Elfingrove at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum —This magnificent museum in Glasgow transforms itself and offers night-time tours along with local food and singing.

This is really a difficult question to answer and really deserves a post all of its own.

Many people insist that it’s Christmas. Trafalgar Square has a giant lit up Christmas tree dripping in ornaments and Christmas cheer. Carol singing and festive events occur all throughout London.

There are several London Christmas Markets that will surely take care of everyone on that Christmas list. There are also a number of festive events held annually around Christmas at many of the castles near London.

But in summer the hours of daylight are longer and exploring London’s attractions on a warm sunny day is also a wonderful experience.

To be honest for me deciding when to visit London is best answered with the words “it is always a good idea!”

Read more – Visiting London in winter | 21 Festive things to do and see in London in December | 29 Things to do in London in Spring | Guide to visiting London in Fall

So the only true answer to the question, “When is the best time to go to England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland?” really does depend on your own interests and available time to go.

Once you have settled on the time of year to visit the UK you are now ready to start planning your trip itinerary.

My UK Trip Planner will help you to plan the perfect UK vacation in 10 easy to follow steps – I recommend starting there!

For UK inspiration my top 21 landmarks in England , 19 places to visit in Scotland , top 10 things to see in Wales , top 10 things to do in Northern Ireland and London bucket list articles are great places to start.

I recommend prioritising what you want to see and do. You can also take some virtual tours of London and UK landmarks and sights to help you plan.

Other useful resources to help you plan your trip:

• How much does a holiday in the UK cost? Read my UK travel budget guide to help calculate your budget!
• Choose from my selection of the best guidebooks for UK travel
• Click here for my recommendations of the best booking sites for travel to the UK
• Prefer an organised tour? Check out our recommendations of the best UK tours available for 2021 and beyond!
• How to get around the UK (Complete Guide to Transportation in the UK)

Hi, I'm Candace

Candace Abroad

A London & Travel Blog

London , London Travel Tips & Inspiration , UK Travel · January 3, 2024

The Ultimate Travel Guide for London in January (2024) — from a Londoner!

Planning a trip to London in January? Here’s a list of all the things to consider when visiting the UK capital at the beginning of the year — from a local!

This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my  Disclosure & Privacy Policy  for more information.

If you’re ready to start the year like a star, I’d say a trip to London is the way to go.

From the winter charm on less busy streets to embracing the beauty of the city in the dark, visiting in January can be quite captivating.

So as post-holiday calm descends upon London, it’s your turn to discover this magnificent place and maybe ( just maybe) enjoy it like most people would never — under the snow!

A well-planned trip to London in January can make the difference between a bad experience and a great one. So let’s dive in to see what you need to consider, what the city has to offer and the best way to enjoy it, from a London travel blogger.

The Ultimate Travel Guide for London in January

P.S. – Coming to London? Have the perfect trip planned for you with our 3,5, or 7-Day London Tourist Itineraries 🇬🇧

Is January a Good Time to Visit London?

Visiting London in January comes with a unique blend of pros. The most important being that it’s less crowded compared to December.

January is basically the start of the off-peak tourist season , so it provides a more relaxed atmosphere in the capital for exploring its streets and attractions.

It’s also the time when many of the city’s theatres have shows in full swing, so theatre-lovers are in for a treat! And if you’re more of a shopper, then you’d be happy to know that tons of London shops and markets offer exciting post-Christmas sales.

Needless to say that it’s the perfect month to witness the London’s winter charm firsthand, with the possibility of snow adding a magical touch to the city’s iconic architecture.

However, there are some drawbacks to visiting in January as well. The most obvious being the freezing temperatures (when will it not be about the weather in my beloved London?).

Winter in London can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below what you’d consider ‘normal’. If you’re not a fan of cold weather, January’s chill might be off-putting. Although I’d say it’s always possible to combat it if you’re wearing the right things…more on that soon.

On the other side, daylight hours are significantly shorter in winter . Say goodbye to the traditional sunsets after 6 and hello to ‘evenings’ as early as 4 p.m.!

This may potentially reduce your site-seeing time with good lighting for photos, but definitely not your exploration of London. In fact, I think the city during dark times is as stunning if not more, and it’s definitely underrated!

Read more: The BEST Night Tours in London (2024): A Local’s Guide to Exploring the Magic of London at Night

So when it comes to visiting London in January, the city’s charm, post-holiday calm, and the unique experiences on offer tend to outweigh the cons, especially if you’re prepared for the cold. So you should definitely consider it!

London Weather in January

Alright, let’s not mess around. How cold is it actually in January?

I won’t sugarcoat it, friends. It gets a bit nippy. Not awful, not unbearable (if you follow my advice), but definitely cold ; particularly during the night and early mornings.

Temperatures typically range between minimum averages of 2°C (36°F) to maximum averages of 7°C (45°F). But the strong winds make it feel so much colder than it is.

Chart for January 2024 from AccuWeather

Rain is also quite common in London throughout the year, and January is no exception. The city averages about 15 days of rainfall in the first month of the year. However, it’s often light and drizzly rather than heavy. I’d say a waterproof coat, footwear and backpack or tote will have you sorted.

There is also reduced daylight in January, with daylight hours going from 8 hours at the beginning of the month to slightly over 9 hours towards the end of it.

What to Pack for London in January

Look, even though there are always tons of options to be indoors in London (free museums, anyone?), you’ll still want to stay outside. At the end of the day, there’s nothing like exploring the famous landmarks with a hot cocoa warming your hands.

So you definitely need to be winter-ready! Here’s my list of your absolute must when packing for the cold days you’re about to experience.

Winter Coat 

This one’s going to be your armour and that’s why you need to pick correctly.  

When you select your winter coat of preference (let’s be honest, you’re probably not packing several as you won’t want to travel like Daphne from Scooby Doo), you need to think of functionality, warmth and convenience. 

Make sure it’s cosy, not so heavy (there’ll be a lot of walking!) and, if you can, enhanced with a good hood. That way, you’re also prepared for light rain! 

Nothing screams “winter in London” more than this layer. It’s the perfect balance between warmth and style, and it’ll be perfect to adapt to your surroundings. 

I personally opt for 2 contrasting colours, so that I can switch things up without carrying much. Like black and white or brown and blue. 

Thermals & Fleece Tights

Being warm and layering up shouldn’t come at the cost of fashion. And a good neutral thermal can make the difference between you trying to rush to your hotel or staying out until the last pub closes. They’re ‘invisible’ and functional, so you won’t regret it. 

Fleece tights, on the other hand, will make it possible for you to wear your amazing cold jeans without hating life! Or that sexy skirt you were planning to pair it with… 

Extremely good-looking and very warm, they’re perfect for the weather and for looking good on your trip. Just make sure they’re comfortable! 

Scarf, Gloves & Hats 

We couldn’t finish our January in London packing list without the perfect accessories to protect you from the cold wind. Three words — scarf, gloves, hat. 

Other Items

Roaming around London requires you to be savvy on what you bring and how you carry it. At the end of the day, you want to be comfortable but stylish, as you’re in one of the most gorgeous cities in the world! You definitely need to consider these accessories to enhance your experience:

• A small backback or a medium tote . Consider neutral colours to use with everything, light yet waterproof materials, and a good size to have some extra space for any souvenirs or snacks.
• A compact umbrella. Yes, London is known for its rain. However, make sure to check the weather before carrying it, as you might be okay if your coat has a good, sturdy hood.
• Lip balm and hand cream. It gets dry in here! So pay extra attention and care to your lips and hands, as they’ll need it.
• Portable charger. Believe me, your phone battery will die as London is just too pretty. Plus, no one lives without Google Maps or Citymapper ! Here’s the one I use .
• Power adapter. Don’t forget that the UK operates under different outlets. I suggest getting a Universal Adapter if you’re travelling in Europe too on your trip.

What to Wear for London in January

Layers, layers, layers.

As you probably assumed from the packing list above, a winter in London requires you to pick your warmest garments and place them one over the other in a very smart way.

That doesn’t mean you need to look like a Michelin Man! On the contrary, it just means you need to choose correctly and prepare for anything. Because, yes, the myth is true: London weather is crazy.

I like to start my outfit with a solid base of warm and functional thermals, both on top and below. Then, a cosy turtleneck and your trousers or skirt of choice. If you’d like something more fashionable, a sweater dress might be the way to go. Just make sure that second layer is as strong as the first one!

Fluffy socks are great for boots. And if you’d like to secure comfort during your time outdoors, then a scarf and gloves are a must. Hats are optional, although highly recommended.

That’s it! You’re perfect to be outside. You can take off your coat when in a heated beer garden. And you can be more than free inside a cosy pub.

The Best Things to do in January in London

London in January means more than just cold and festive leftovers. After reading all the things you can do this month, you’ll be eager to get on the plane (or train)!

Go Ice Skating

Whoever’s in London during the winter knows this is an activity you can’t miss. And luckily for you, the most popular are still open. Like the Somerset House Ice Rink until the 14th and the fun Canary Wharf Rink until February 24th! (P.S. – If you’re in Canary Wharf, make sure the Canary Wharf Winter Lights are on your list too!).

Shop London’s January sales

Many high-street shops in London start their sales immediately after Christmas and until the middle of January, so it’s your perfect opportunity to shop like royalty. Don’t miss the iconic Fortnum & Mason , the luxurious Harrods , the classic Liberty and the huge Selfridges .

Visit Hogwarts in the Snow

If you’re a Potterhead or a big film lover, you can’t miss a visit to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter with Transportation , where you’ll see the wizarding world with a truly magical makeover.

From the Christmas trees in the Great Hall, the return of the Yule Ball and the snow in the Forbidden Forest; to the absolute jewel in the crown, the Hogwarts scale model covered in snow. All until January 14th!

Take a winter stroll in London’s best green spaces

Parks in London look beyond beautiful during the winter, so you can’t miss them. You can enjoy a quiet morning while admiring nature or have a hot and delicious coffee after lunch. Besides, the options are endless ! My favourites for a winter stroll are Hyde Park and Hampstead Heath .

And of course…go to a pub!

London in January FAQs

➡️ Is January cold in London?

Oh, yes. January in London can be quite cold with average high temperatures around 7°C (45°F) and average lows around 2°C (36°F). But nothing that a good winter coat can’t fix!

➡️ Should I go to London in winter?

Yes, yes, yes! Look, it’s cold and wet and dark, but London during the winter is absolutely stunning with its Christmas lights, food and antique markets, and festive entertainment. Plus, pubs couldn’t be cosier any other time of the year.

➡️ Does London snow in January?

A popular question, and I understand why. The idea of appreciating London under the snow is appealing, however I’m afraid to say that it only snows very  very  occasionally.

The average amount of snowfall per year is around 5 to 10 cm (2-4 inches), but this is more frequent in the outer suburbs of the city. Even if it happens, it rarely stays on the ground for more than a day or two at a time. Here’s what to do when it snows in London just in case.

➡️ What is a must do in London in January?

Well, January is your last chance to engage in London’s festivities! So if you’re here early in the year, make sure you catch the last moments of the sparkling Christmas lights on Oxford Street or the last Christmas shows in the West End.

➡️ Is London busy in January?

You’d be happy to hear that London in January is indeed less crowded, so it’s an exceptional time to experience the capital!

Thanks for reading my London in January Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on  Instagram !

Check out more london guides:.

• What Is the Weather Like in London?
• The Ultimate Travel Guide for London in February — from a Londoner!
• London in March: Your Ultimate Travel Guide — from a Londoner!
• The Ultimate Travel Guide for London in April — from a Londoner!
• 10+ Unique Experiences in London You Have to Try for Yourself
• Top 10 London Attractions: 10 Famous Places to See & Visit
• 10 Tips for Tourists in London (Tourist Mistakes and How to Avoid Them)
• 101+ Fascinating Facts about London (History, Culture, and Quirky Bits!) — from a Londoner
• How to Spend New Year’s in London: Your Ultimate Guide

Happy Londoning,

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The 14 most brrrilliant winter getaways in the UK

Reindeer, Rick Stein and the aurora borealis: check out our top picks for the best winter getaways in the UK for 2023

It's time to wrap up, folks: winter is just around the corner, and to the eternally optimistic folks here at Time Out, it means rosy cheeks, romantic walks and zip-lining through massive caves in North Wales . We never claimed to be normal.

Don those extra layers, hats, scarves and gloves, and get ready to enjoy all the glorious winteriness that the UK has to offer. You can head out in search of the Northern Lights , reindeer, Rick Stein’s finest creations and more — there is a lot to love in the UK, but winter shimmers brightest in these spots. Check out our top picks for the best winter getaways in the UK. 

RECOMMENDED: 🌳The most amazing treehouses in the UK you can actually stay in 🚘 The best road trips in the UK 🏰The best castles in the UK 🧙‍♂️The best magical places to visit in the UK

At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best winter getaways in the UK

1.  cornwall.

Make plans for a Cornwall road trip this winter, and your heart will almost certainly grow in size. Not literally, that would be dangerous, but the procession of quaint fishing villages and sweeping walks are the stuff winter dreams are made of. Indulge in all the Rick Stein food you can find in Padstow before falling head over heels in love with St Ives , Mousehole and the rest.

📍 Check out the best things to do in Cornwall

2.  North Wales

One way to keep warm during the winter months is to get the adrenaline flowing, and there are plenty of opportunities to do just that. North  Wales offers a cavalcade of the things, from underground zip-lining in Llechwedd to rugged mountain biking in the wilds of Snowdonia National Park. The northern coast is gorgeous during the winter months, and towns like Conwy, Wrexham and Bangor come alive with frenzied conversation and plenty of pints.

📍Check out t he best things to do in North Wales

3.  York

The Yorkshire marvel is a fantastic city all year round, and the brilliant roster of museums, restaurants  and experiences make it a top-notch spot during winter. The National Railway Museum is arguably the best travel-centric museum in the country, while York ’s Viking history is most alive at this time of year. Hit up the Jorvik Viking Centre and learn about those brutal times, before heading on an evening ghost tour of this most fascinating city.

📍Check out the best things to do in York

4.  Bath

Bath is one of the most architecturally delightful cities in England, but there is something about a thin layer of snow that brings new characters out of the many constructions here. The Somerset stunner embraces the festive period like few other places, with a packed calendar of events and more romance than you can shake your fist at. Bath is plenty romantic all year round, but the feeling is taken to a new level during winter. The Christmas Market in Bath opens on November 24 and runs until December 11, so don’t miss that.

📍Check out the best things to do in Bath

5.  Giant’s Causeway

The epic nature of the Giant’s Causeway shouldn’t lend itself to a simple experience, right? Visit Northern Ireland ’s legendary interlocking columns when the air is crisp, the winds high and the temperature low, and put yourself in the boots of a hardy warrior from years gone by. Watch your step, obviously, and visit safe knowing that the warmth of the Bushmills distillery is only a couple of miles down the road.

📍Check out the best things to do in Northern Ireland

6.  Glasgow

The best music scene in the UK? Many cities will put their hands up with that one, but Glasgow might just pip them all to the prize. The gigs ramp up during the colder months as music fans across the city head for the warmth of the venues in search of the next Mogwai, Primal Scream or Belle & Sebastian. Hardy souls with excellent hats and scarves can take advantage of the idyllic green spaces, and the Glasgow Botanic Gardens are a celebration of flora that rival anything across the country.

📍Check out the   best things to do in Glasgow

7.  Orkney Islands

Of course, there is no guarantee when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights , but you still need to put yourself in the best position to see the phenomenon. In the UK, that means a trip to the stunning Orkney Islands, where the lights are referred to as the Merry Dancers. The aurora borealis is a fixture on many a bucket list, so head north during the colder months and hope the space particles are moving in your favour. Even if the colourful sky doesn’t materialise, the peace and tranquillity of Orkney is something to behold.

8.  Pembrokeshire

No, you won’t find scorching winter temperatures anywhere during the winter here, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid the beach. Something is soothing about a beach during winter, and nowhere is this more apparent than in Pembrokeshire. This region in West Wales is all quaint villages and sweeping views, with brilliant walks and cosy pubs all over the place. If you’ve ever wanted to have an entire beach to yourself, Pembrokeshire in winter offers just that.

9.  Cairngorms National Park

Is there an animal more tied to winter than the magnificent reindeer? Santa’s faithful chauffeurs can be seen in several places across the UK, but Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park is the only place where they run free as nature intended. You can see the handsome beasts all year round, but, come on, reindeer and Christmas are a match made in heaven. The national park is a stunner in its own right. Be sure to read Nan Shepherd’s ‘The Living Mountain’   before you go to amp up the excitement.

📍Check out the most beautiful national parks in the UK

10.  Norwich

It always feels somewhat dangerous to throw such accolades around, but Norwich might be the most underrated city in the UK. A fabulous collection of bars and restaurants accentuate a long history and an atmosphere that is all of its own. It also makes a great base for exploring the Norfolk coast, where seals come to rest in winter. Blakeney Point Nature Reserve (a 40-minute drive from Norwich) is the place to see those beauties.

📍Check out the best things to do in Norwich

11.  Ards Peninsula

Peace, tranquillity, serenity. Yes, they all essentially mean the same thing, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be seeking them out at every turn. Northern Ireland ’s Ards Peninsula is a hub of quietude in winter, with a wide range of beautiful walking spots that reward the hardy ambler with stunning views and all the romance one could need. Just wear a decent windbreaker because the winds get pretty rambunctious in these parts. 

12.  Hay-on-Wye

Book lovers have long known that Hay-on-Wye is the place to be, but even literary cynics will find plenty to sink their teeth into here during winter. The Hay Festival Winter Weekend takes place at the end of November (24 to 27 this year), and the entire extravaganza is a celebration of storytelling that will breathe new life into sceptical souls. The festival coincides with turning on the Christmas lights in town, which is always a cheerful occasion. 

13.  New Forest

Ponies racing over crackling leaves and snow-covered ground will never not be a gorgeous image, and New Forest National Park is the place to go for such scenes. You’ll have to find the ponies first, of course, and treat them with the utmost respect, but there is plenty more to entice when the temperature is low. The park is at its quietest during the winter months, with fewer cars and general traffic, making for beautiful strolls and some of the finest sunsets the UK has to offer. 

📍Check out the best things to do in the New Forest

14.  Ayr

Burns Night is a big deal, but where is the best place to celebrate it? Right in the heart of Burns Country, of course. Robert Burns was born in the village of Alloway, and the nearby town of Ayr is a hive of activity when the Scottish poet’s night comes along. That is January 25, for the record. Ayr is a medium-sized town with fewer than 50,000 people, but the appreciation of Burns here is second to none. You might as well make the pilgrimage to Alloway for the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum while in the area. 

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London in January: 8 top reasons to visit (2023 guide)

As the festive season dies away, London remains an ever-present city with an abundance of famous attractions. 

London’s museums, historical attractions and galleries stay open all year round, and they’re much quieter after the Christmas period. 

Cheap prices are in abundance in January, and winter walks with a hot chocolate are the ideal winter warmer. 

While it’s not the most popular month to visit London, this brings extra allures for anyone who prefers fewer crowds. 

I grew up in London, and spent many a January exploring the city’s allures. And here are my top reasons to visit London in January! 

Table of Contents

Reasons to visit London in January

Wrap up for walks along the River Thames, check out the still-present festive decorations and enjoy a wide range of winter comfort food – plus, make the most of cheaper hotel prices! Here are all the reasons to visit London in January. 

New Year’s Day celebrations

As the embers of the old year die out and the new year blinks awake, London throws a party.

Londoners celebrate New Year’s Day with a parade that paints the city in a carnival of colours and spectacle.

Kick off the year with the New Year’s Day Parade , a beloved London tradition dating back to 1987.

Starting at noon, the procession embarks on a 2-mile route beginning at Parliament Square and concluding near Buckingham Palace.

The parade is a glorious medley of colourful floats, high-stepping horses, cheerleaders, marching bands, and performers from all over the globe.

Thousands of performers decked out in extravagant costumes stomp down the streets of central London.

The streets are festooned with smiling faces, confetti, and the sound of trumpets, giving the city an infectious vibrancy.

And for anyone nursing a slightly heavy head from the previous night, this spectacle is an instant pick-me-up!

January sales

With the glow of Christmas behind, London’s shopfronts open their doors with huge sales.

While the sales often start online on Boxing Day , nothing beats the thrill of hunting on the high street.

Oxford Street , where flagship stores rub shoulders, sees its prices plunge after Christmas, with discounts up to a jaw-dropping 70% off in some stores.

Westfield , in both its White City and Stratford locations, sees droves of bargain hunters descend upon its many outlets.

Whether it’s designer threads or the latest tech gadgets you’re after, you can bet your bottom dollar (or pound) that there’s a discount with your name on it.

The sales usually linger through January, so you have plenty of time to explore and bag the best deals.

You could even go on a winter day trip to Bicester Village, a designer outlet in Oxfordshire.

Just remember to pack an extra suitcase for all your goodies! 

Festive celebrations continue

One of the reasons January shines in London is that its festive makeover spans past December. 

The city’s ice rinks often remain open into January – one of the best places to ice skate is Somerset House , where you can glide around its 18th-century courtyard, enjoying the exquisite architecture as your backdrop.

Canary Wharf’s ice skating rink even stays open until February ! 

And what about London’s renowned light installations?

Major landmarks and neighbourhoods across London are illuminated by stunning light artworks, keeping the city vibrant and festive even after the holiday season.

A ride on the London Eye is another way to keep that festive feeling alive.

London’s iconic observation wheel, resplendent with twinkling lights, offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Even in January, it maintains a sense of magic, especially at night!

Check out my guide to visiting London at Christmas by clicking here.

Fewer crowds

January is often overlooked as a time to visit London, which, as it turns out, can be quite beneficial!

With fewer tourists meandering the streets, you’ll find a more relaxed pace pervades the city.

In fact, this is the quietest time to visit the British capital. 

Major landmarks such as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the British Museum and the Imperial War Museum, usually teeming with visitors, are less crowded.

This allows you more time to appreciate these historic sites without feeling rushed or cramped.

Burns Night

Burns Night , observed on January 25th, is a celebration of the life and works of Scottish poet Robert Burns , and in London, this event is welcomed with open arms and hearty appetites.

Traditional Burns suppers are the focal point of the celebration, with venues across the city hosting their own version of this Scottish feast.

Haggis, neeps, and tatties (that’s turnips and potatoes!) are the stars of the menu, with a dram of whisky to toast the hallowed haggis.

Boisdale of Canary Wharf is known for its lively Burns Night festivities.

Here, you can revel in an evening packed with Scottish culture – from the ceremonial haggis procession accompanied by bagpipes to the live performances of Burns’ poetry and songs .

Elsewhere in the city, contemporary restaurants and pop-ups often put their own spin on Burns Supper , offering inventive interpretations of classic Scottish dishes.

Burns Night in London definitely provides a slice of Scottish culture right in the heart of the English capital.

Perfect weather for comfort food

January in London provides an ideal setting to savour some proper British comfort food.

The bracing cold outside makes the toasty interiors of London’s eateries even more inviting.

London’s gastronomic scene is teeming with culinary delights like a classic Shepherd’s Pie , laden with minced meat and topped with fluffy mashed potatoes. It’s a proper winter warmer! 

A bowl of steamy soup in the rustic surroundings of The Soup Kitchen in Soho, or a generous portion of Fish and Chips from Golden Hind in Marylebone, are also excellent ways to stave off the chill.

Another must-try is a classic Sunday Roast , a British staple.

Head to The Harwood Arms in Fulham (a Michelin guide restaurant) for this dish, complete with Yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings!

For those with a sweet tooth, winter is the perfect excuse to tuck into warm puddings.

The sticky toffee pudding at The Coach in Clerkenwell , with its moist sponge and luscious toffee sauce, is a wonderful way to end a meal (or start one, we won’t judge!).

Lower prices

Visiting London in January has the potential for lower prices.

This month, falling squarely in the travel industry’s ‘off-peak’ period sees a significant drop in the cost of travel and accommodation compared to the frenzied holiday season in December.

Flights to London become substantially more affordable in January, as airlines aim to keep seats filled after the holiday rush.

Accommodation follows a similar pattern.

Hotels, guesthouses, and even popular short-term rental properties often reduce their prices in January to attract visitors.

Plus, London’s theatres, home to world-class performances, often have special January discounts.

Lunar New Year Celebrations

A colourful burst of festivity in the midst of London’s winter , Lunar New Year (which Chinese New Year is a part of) – often occurring towards the end of January, although it depends on the Chinese calendar – adds a lively, culturally rich component to a January visit.

Primarily centred around Chinatown , Leicester Square , and Trafalgar Square , the Lunar New Year celebrations in London claim to be the biggest outside of Asia, due to its large Chinese community – although Sydney and San Francisco also claim to have it too. 

Prepare for a day filled with bold red decorations, powerful lion dances, enthralling martial art performances, and parade floats graced by enchanting zodiac animals!

Chinatown , in particular, becomes a vibrant hub of activity. The streets are adorned with Chinese lanterns and banners, creating an atmosphere of celebration.

Taste the tantalising array of Chinese cuisine on offer, from dim sum and Peking duck to sweet mooncakes. 

Weather in January in London

While London’s January weather might not win any winter sun contests, there’s a certain charm to its wintery conditions! 

The average temperatures hover around 8°C/ 46.4°F for the high and 2°C/ 35.6°F for the low , meaning it’s chilly but typically not frostbite-inducing cold.

A spot of rain is always on the cards in London, and January is no exception.

Rainfall averages around 50mm across the month , with rain anticipated on approximately 19 days .

That being said, the rain tends to be more of a drizzle than a downpour, so a sturdy umbrella or a water-resistant jacket should suffice for most outings.

You can expect the January days to be quite short, with daylight lasting around eight hours.

Sunrise usually occurs between 7:30 am and 8:00 am and sunset between 4:00 pm and 4:30 pm .

These early sunsets could impact your sightseeing plans!

Does it snow in January in London?

Visions of London cloaked in a fresh layer of snow can seem like the perfect winter wonderland fantasy.

The reality, however, is that snow in London, particularly in January, is relatively rare.

When the city does see some snowfall, it tends to be light and doesn’t stick around for very long.

The likelihood of a significant snowfall in London is typically at its highest between January and February – but even then, it’s far from guaranteed.

Even if snow does grace the city, it tends to be more of a light dusting rather than the thick blanket often depicted in holiday films!

On those rare occasions when London does receive a dusting of snow , it provides an enchanting backdrop to the city’s iconic landmarks.

Just remember that, while it’s beautiful, snow in the city can sometimes lead to disruptions in transport, so it’s worth keeping an eye on the weather forecast during your stay.

What to Pack for London in January

Layering is your best friend when packing for a trip to London in January. The weather can be quite changeable, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for anything from clear, cold days to drizzly ones.

Start with thermal innerwear, such as long-sleeved tops and leggings .

They form a cosy base layer that can make a world of difference in chilly temperatures.

Add on sweaters or jumpers , and a versatile winter coat . If you’re prone to feeling cold, a down jacket can be a great choice.

Next, consider your footwear. Waterproof boots or shoes are highly recommended as London can be rather wet in January.

Ensure they’re comfortable for walking, as you’ll likely spend a lot of time on your feet exploring the city.

A hat, gloves, and scarf are essential accessories. Not only do they keep you warm, but they can be easily removed if you go indoors where it’s heated.

Don’t forget an umbrella , even though you might find yourself battling some stiff British breezes.

Alternatively, many Londoners opt for a sturdy, waterproof jacket with a hood to combat the rain and wind.

Lastly, pack a few smart-casual outfits if you plan on dining out or enjoying London’s theatre scene, as some venues may have a dress code.

Remember, British style tends to be classic rather than overly casual, so when in doubt, it’s better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed.

FAQs about visiting London in January 

Is it a good time to visit London in January?

Absolutely – London’s an excellent winter city break ! Despite the winter chill, January is an exceptional time to experience London. Attractions are less crowded, and there are unique events, like the New Year’s Day Parade and Burns Night celebrations.

Is London too cold in January?

It can be chilly, with temperatures typically between 2°C and 8°C, but it’s usually manageable with appropriate layers and outerwear. Plus, indoor attractions, cosy pubs, and hot comfort foods make the cold weather quite bearable.

Is London expensive in January?

January can be a more affordable time to visit London, particularly after the holiday peak. Hotels and airfare often offer lower prices, and you can benefit from the January sales for shopping.

Is London worth visiting in winter?

Indeed, it is! Winter in London offers its own unique charm, with festive events continuing into the New Year, winter comfort food, ice skating, and lower crowd levels at popular attractions.

What months have the worst weather in London?

Typically, November to February are the coldest and wettest months. However, London’s weather is known for its unpredictability, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip.

What month is London most cold?

The coldest month in London is usually January, in the depths of the winter months, with an average low of 2°C.

What month is snowiest in London?

London doesn’t get a lot of snow, but if it does happen, it’s most likely between December and February.

How do people dress in London in January?

Layers are key for London’s winter weather. Essentials include warm coats, scarves, hats, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof shoes.

How rainy is London in January?

January is in the middle of London’s rainier season, with an average of 21 days seeing some rainfall. However, this is often light rain or drizzle rather than heavy downpours.

What month is best to see London?

Every month offers a unique experience in London. However, many favour the warmer months of May through September, when days are longer, parks are in full bloom, and outdoor activities are plentiful.

Is the UK rainy in January?

Yes, January is one of the rainier months in the UK, including London, but the rain is typically light and manageable.

Should I travel to UK in January?

If you don’t mind colder weather and prefer fewer crowds, then yes! You’ll have the chance to experience unique events, explore attractions more peacefully, and perhaps score a deal on accommodations and flights.

Are you ready to visit London in January?

Whether you’re spending a couple of days or the whole of January in London, there are plenty of reasons to explore the capital city during this month. 

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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January in London: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

While you may be cold in London in January, you also might catch the tail-end of the city's charming holiday decorations. January in London is among the best times to visit this notoriously pricy city if you're on a budget. The January sales will satisfy the most dedicated shopper, while hotels also offer discounts on room rates during this quiet month.

As long as you dress warmly, January is also an ideal time to visit popular attractions without the overwhelming summer crowds

London Weather in January

While London is always a bit damp, January is especially cold and wet, but still generally warmer than many other northern European countries, and there is still the occasional surprisingly warm day.

• Average high: 47 degrees Fahrenheit (8.5 degrees Celsius)
• Average low: 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius)

Temperatures in London typically only drop near freezing in the evenings, and the city typically experiences 11 days of rainfall in January and only eight hours of daylight throughout the month. Snow isn't widespread in London, but it does occur occasionally.

What to Pack

Wrap up warm in plenty of layers. January and early February are the coldest times in London. London is always rainy, so you'll want to bring an umbrella with you. On the coldest days, a heavy winter coat is necessary. Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes are still a must-pack for London.

January Events in London

London doesn't suffer from a post-holiday drop-off, as January offers plenty of fun-filled events for visitors to enjoy.

• New Year's Day Parade : On January 1, see marching bands, cheerleaders, dancers, and acrobats take to the streets as part of London's famous New Year's Day Parade. 
• London Yacht Show: In early January, more than 500 exhibitors showcase the best boating innovations and equipment at this massive celebration of all things nautical at ExCel London.
• Twelfth Night Festival: On January 5, 2020, this free event marks the end of Christmas and welcomes in the New Year with a program of events based on ancient seasonal customs. 
• Get Into London Theatre :  Every January, you can grab discounted tickets to 50+ London theater shows as part of this annual promotion. 
• London Art Fair : Billed as the U.K.’s premier modern British and contemporary art fair, this event at Islington's Design Centre brings together over 100 galleries and features talks, tours, and large-scale installations. The art fair returns January 22 to 26, 2020.
• Chinese New Year Parade and Festival : In late January, celebrate the most significant event in the Chinese calendar by following the lively parade along Charing Cross Road and Shaftesbury Avenue. The celebrations culminate in Trafalgar Square, and you can enjoy plenty of free entertainment and delicious food in Chinatown. 
• London International Mime Festival: Running from January 8 through February 2, this celebration of the silent art form takes place in various performance venues across London including the Barbican and Soho Theatre.
• Commemoration of Charles the Martyr: This annual commemoration of King Charles I's' 1649 execution takes place in the Banqueting Hall on January 30 at Whitehall. The ceremony includes a wreath-laying, prayers, and a choir usually accompanies the service. 
• January Sales : Snap up a bargain in the "January sales," which technically start on Boxing Day (December 26). Harrods, John Lewis, Selfridges, and Liberty are always reliable options for post-Christmas bargains. 

January Travel Tips

• When you're packing for your January trip to London, include a heavy scarf, gloves, coat, and hat.
• London has no shortage of free attractions—in fact, many of the best things in the city are free or low-cost. Winter is a great time to take advantage of normally crowded attractions like the British Museum.
• If you visit in early January, festive Christmas decorations will still be on display. Walk down Carnaby Street, Regent Street, and Oxford Street to see the best decor.

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Visiting London in

What to expect, getting around.

• Things to do

London is a winter wonderland in the season of January, even though has cold, often rainy winters, you'll still find plenty to enjoy. The city is a bustling center of excitement and awe, and its shopping and dining are first-rate. It is also the quietest time of year to travel to London. The attractions are more fun to visit because there are fewer people and less waiting time. As the winter sales are on, it is the best time to visit on a budget. If you know what to expect when traveling during January, you'll have a wonderful trip to remember.

• Average Daytime Temperatures: 48 F (8C)
• Average Overnight Temperatures: 37 F (3C)
• Sunny or partly sunny days: 12
• Rainy days: 19

What to wear

• Make sure you have a warm coat and winter boots.
• A good pair of comfortable waterproof walking shoes is a must-have.
• Don’t forget your gloves, hats and scarfs to keep you warm
• Pack an umbrella, you will be happy to have it when it starts to rain.
• Don’t forget to pack some more fanciful shoes for the nightlife.

London Prices in January

For those on a budget, traveling to London in January is the cheapest time of the year to go. Many hotels are offering discounts and you will find many January sales still going on all across the capital. January is a unique time to visit London where the city isn't completely overrun by tourists. Book your flights and accommodation in advance for best prices and save up money by booking at the right times.

Planning your trip is a key to a balanced budget, use free online resources like our maps & guide or the itinerary tool, if you are going to visit some iconic attractions, get a sightseeing pass, it will easily save you 50% on regular admission prices – see more

With roughly 30 million travellers per year, London easily ranks as one of the most visited cities on earth. London is easy to navigate, but if you can't walk to your destination there are plenty of options

London underground.

The quickest way to travel around, London's Underground metro system is the oldest and most famous in the world. In total, there are 11 lines on the Tube within nine zones. On most days the London Tube is open between 5AM and 12AM, but there is extended services for Friday and Saturday. Fares vary widely for the London Underground depending on when you're using the service and how far you're going. The easiest way navigate the Tube is to invest in what's known as an Oyster Card. These re-chargeable card can be purchased at any Tube station. Put as much money as you want on your Oyster Card and scan it at the entrance of the Tube station. It’s much cheaper to use than single tube tickets.

Black Cabs - Traditional London taxis

These cabs can easily be found all over central London as well as by major train stations, bus stops, and by Heathrow Airport. Please ensure the yellow "taxi" light in the front of the cab is on when you're trying to hail a vehicle. All taxicab services in London are metered and there's a £3 minimum charge. While you're not required to tip, it's always welcome, and most Londoners will round up their fare.

Hop on, Hop off Buses

These buses connect major attractions all over the city and provide many photo opportunities, it's also a good way to catch a break or eat your sandwich while still sightseeing one of the many special tours. Getting around London from the comfort of a bus is a great way to get a feel for the city without worrying about getting lost. Checkout the London Sightseeing Bus Routes with over 7 bus loops and more than 100 bus stops

Free Digital Guidebook

Hop-on hop-off bus map, london tourist map, things to do in january, check out the following list of ideas for fun things to do in london in january:, 1. changing the guard at buckingham palace.

One fascination that is not to be missed is the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace. It takes place outside Buckingham Palace, begins at 10:45 AM and lasts around 45 minutes (handover takes place at 11:00 AM). You can join the Change of the Guard walking tour to learn much more about this ceremony.

2. Hogwarts in the Snow

Experience winter at Hogwarts when you explore the Warner Bros. studio in London. As one of the most popular holiday attractions in London, Hogwarts in the Snow features the Great Hall lined with Christmas trees and long tables laid out with flaming Christmas pudding and other delicacies. You will even see a snow filled Yule Ball and an orchestra that uses magical instruments.

3. New Year’s Day Parade

Celebrate with thousands of onlookers as you watch the floats from all around the world go down the street and witness many colourful performers. You can book grandstand tickets or watch for free from the parade route.

4. Chinese New Year in London

Celebrate Chinese New Year by watching festive parades and live stage performances around Chinatown, London's West End, & Trafalgar Square in either January or February.

Rainy Day Options in London

Tower of london.

Learn about the storied history of London with a trip to this epic tower. Visitors will delight in the exhibit of the Royal Family crown jewels, including the Imperial State Crown. The guards of the tower will regale visitors with tales of the bloody history of these times, enchanting everyone who walks through the gates. Visit to the Tower of London is free with the London Sightseeing Pass.

West End Theatre

Taking a West End show will chase away any rainy day blues during your visit to London. It might not be possible to get last minute tickets to every show, but you can find something a couple of hours before the show starts by visiting the Encore Box office. With every sightseeing pass purchased on this site we offer 55 GBP towards your theatre ticket.

London Museums

Your weather app says it’s going to be raining the whole day? Head over to one of the best London Museums or Galleries. Whether your interest is in art, science or history, there’s something for everyone in just about every neighbourhood. Pick from the British Museum, The National Gallery, Tate Modern, the Kensington Museums of Natural History or Science Museum – all offer free entry to the public.

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When is the best time to visit the UK?

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• Month-by-month

The best time to visit the United Kingdom is in spring (late March to early June) and autumn (September to November), when it’s usually warm and dry. You’ll see beautiful spring flowers or the leaves changing hue in autumn, and avoid the much busier summer period.

However, the UK can be visited at any time of year, as its climate is relatively temperate and, in general, doesn’t experience extremes during either summer or winter. The highest temperatures are experienced in the summer, but these rarely rise above 86°F.

Winter (December to February) can also be an enjoyable time to visit. Although some attractions close in mountainous areas and in the north (and most of Scotland), where there’s likely to be snow, the main cities remain fully open and will be quieter for sightseeing.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in the UK

Visiting the UK in January

Typically the coldest month of the year, January is also when you’re most likely to experience clear and frosty days, with blue skies and crisp mornings. Extravagant New Year celebrations are held in all the major cities and often include live music, floats and firework displays. The average temperature throughout the month can be as low as 41-42°F, if not lower.

Events & Festivals

• New Year celebrations are held, with fireworks on New Year's Eve and floats and processions in some cities on New Year's Day.

Visiting the UK in February

There will still be snow on the mountains in February, and parts of the country may experience snowfall. In the south of the United Kingdom, snowdrops begin to emerge, particularly in woodland areas.

Visiting the UK in March

Temperatures begin to rise and spring flowers appear, both on the ground and as blossom on the trees. The rugby Six Nations Championship is held during February or March, when England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland, France and Italy are pitched against each other.

Visiting the UK in April

April is a notoriously unpredictable month for weather. It can be warm and sunny, with spring flowers made more vivid by the clear skies and sunshine, or it can be a very rainy month. Toward the end of April swathes of bluebells cover woodland areas. Many of the sites that close over the winter months tend to reopen in April or around Easter, a public holiday. The London Marathon is held on one Sunday toward the end of the month, with thousands of runners making their way around central London .

• An annual event, the London Marathon is a great spectacle to watch, with runners running for charity around the main sites of the capital.

Visiting the UK in May - June

The weather is usually warm during May and June, and is typically drier than the winter months. May has two Bank Holiday weekends, which can be particularly busy as British people make the most of this time off work. There are several events and festivals held across the United Kingdom during May and June as the weather becomes more pleasant and reliable. The most famous are the outdoor tennis tournament Wimbledon, the Royal Ascot horse-racing event, Glastonbury Festival and the Royal Regatta, a series of boat races on the Thames, held in picturesque Henley-on-Thames.

• Wimbledon outdoor tennis tournament.
• The Royal Regatta is a key event in the summer season, with boat races and picnics held in Henley, and a strict dress code to adhere to.
• Often attended by the Queen, Royal Ascot is a major event in the horse racing calendar, where race-goers dress up for the occasion.
• Glastonbury Festival is held in Somerset this month, predominantly a music festival with famous bands and singers.

Visiting the UK in July - August

Traditionally the summer months, July and August are in theory the hottest and driest months of the year although, as with all British weather, this cannot be relied on. Schools break for the summer around the middle of July, so this is also the busiest time to travel throughout the UK. There are a number of outdoor music festivals held in July and August, as well as large agricultural shows such as the Great Yorkshire Show. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, a lively series of performances including shows, music and comedy, is held during most of August, making the city extremely busy. The last weekend of August is the final Bank Holiday of the summer.

• Edinburgh Festival Fringe is a lively series of performances including music, comedy and theater.

Visiting the UK in September

September often has warmer and drier weather than August, and the summer crowds start to disperse as schools reopen. Toward the end of the month the leaves start to change hue, and there are a number of food festivals held across the country to mark the harvest.

Visiting the UK in October

The autumn leaves are at their best, most vibrant russet shades during October. Temperatures are cooler and some sites in more rural areas start to close for winter. By the end of October most places are much quieter, making this a pleasant time to travel if you prefer to avoid the crowds. The schools generally break for a week at the end of the month though.

Visiting the UK in November

In early November the autumn leaves are still in full show, but mountainous areas may experience snow and daylight is restricted to around seven hours in northern Scotland. The weather is usually cool and damp, although it’s not uncommon to have wonderful cold, dry spells. Guy Fawkes Night is celebrated with bonfires and fireworks on the 5th, to commemorate a failed attempt to blow up parliament in the 17th century. Remembrance Day for fallen soldiers is held on the eleventh day of the month across the country, with Sunday memorial services and military marches. A two-minute silence held at 11am on the eleventh day itself.

• A celebration of bonfires and fireworks, Guy Fawkes Night commemorates a failed attempt to blow up parliament in the 17th century.

Visiting the UK in December

December is usually cold and damp, with little foliage and the least daylight hours of the year (fewer than seven in the north of Scotland). Christmas lights in towns and cities are switched on in early December, and shops remain open for most of the month, often only closing on Christmas Day and Boxing Day (December 26).

• Christmas lights decorate towns and cities, and carol concerts are held in churches.

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Practical tips for traveling to the UK, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.

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The best holiday destinations in January

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Christmas is over, the New Year’s hangover is lingering and workdays and school hours are back on. From 1 January, reality kicks in, so why not book a new year getaway and escape the January blues? Post-Christmas and pre-Valentines, it's cheap – snap up an off-peak season deal across the globe, from one of the best Caribbean islands to the sunny neighbourhoods of Sydney and LA . Here, we round up the best places to go on holiday in January 2023.

Barbados, Caribbean

Temperature in January: 29°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 8 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -4

It’s the Caribbean island’s good-time vibes that keep regulars coming. Well, that and the pirate’s bounty of bleached-white, powdery beaches. The glam west coast might be all five-star luxury, but travel slightly south and the scene quickly skews more local. Lively town Oistins’ Friday Night Fish Fry brings the community out for an open-air party, with fresh-caught fish on the barbecue and booming reggae. Or, closer still, hit St Lawrence Gap, a strip of rambunctious rum bars. On the quieter east coast, pounding Atlantic waves draw surfers: Bathsheba is the closest Barbados gets to boho, with pro boarders and tattooed artists. In January, the dawn of dry season, it’s all appealing – drenched only in a daily average nine hours of sunshine.

Sustainable travel tip: The best way to benefit the Barbados community is to leave your hotel. Give back to the community by spending tourist dollars at Oistins Fish Fry, which benefits local businesses.

Where to stay: Cobblers Cove prides itself on being quietly elegant – an intimate, stylish country-house hotel situated on a white sand beach, with 40 spacious rooms which all open on to the luscious gardens. For more, see our picks of the best hotels in Barbados .

Thailand, Asia

Temperature in January: 32°C high; 22°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 12 hours Time difference: GMT +7

Thailand is heavenly in January. Yes, it's peak season, but the mayhem of the Christmas and New Year parties are over; Bangkok is just about as pleasant as it's ever going to get, and the islands on the south-western, Andaman Coast are just lovely: Koh Phi Phi, Phuket, Koh Lanta . Over on the east side, the islands of Koh Samui, Phangan and Tao are wetter - if you're heading here, best to wait a couple of months til March ; but still, those monsoon-like rains blow in, pour themselves out, then an hour later everyone's back on the beach.

Sustainable travel tip: Thai sleeper trains are modern and comfortable, so consider an overnight rail adventure between destinations rather than internal flights. Similarly, when visiting islands, more often than not there’s a ferry option, so don’t head for the airport as a matter of course.

Where to stay: The Standard offers a peppy, high-energy experience in Bangkok’s tallest skyscraper. Families and those seeking the more serene should book into the whimsical railway-themed InterContinental Khao Yai Resort , with its charming suites all set up in vintage railway carriages, and an old-timey ticketing booth serving as a lobby. See our guide to the best hotels in Thailand for more.

Val d'Isere

Temperature in January: -1°C high; -10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hour 40 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

With New Year crowds gone and no school holidays on the horizon, January is a fine time to hit up the best ski resorts in Europe . And not only does French ski resort Val present the most reliable powder on the continent, but this St-Tropez-on-snow is only getting splashier. The spot is home to some of the best ski hotels and chalets in the region. And if Olympic downhills and Michelin-starred restaurants aren’t doing it, there are plenty more inventive ways to get your kicks. Who’s up for a circuit of BMW’s ice track?

Sustainable travel tip: Looking to offset all that Val d’Isère excess? Eurostar runs direct trains from London St Pancras to Bourg St Maurice during ski season; local buses then make the 45-minute trip from the station to Val.

Where to stay: Le Refuge de Solaise , once a cable-car station, is now a fun-loving ski hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, marking one of France’s highest places to bed down. We also love Le Yule , located right on the edge of the front de neige and the nursery slope. The rooms are decorated in minimalist Scandinavian style with natural colours, and have balconies overlooking the piste. For a private stay, seven-room Chalet Husky has a climbing wall, infinity waterfall and space for rifle shooting and archery – perhaps not so wise after a night at Dick’s Tea Bar.

Porto, Portugal

Temperature in January: 14°C high; 6°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 2 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

No doubt about it, Portugal is booming. While the country’s mild winters might not be scorching, they are quieter – and prices lower than usual, in a destination already beloved for being very affordable. Porto , Lisbon’s little sister, has undergone its own creative renewal. Once-decaying medieval streets buzz with kerbside cafés and retooled townhouses, transformed into stylish hotels by local designers. The food scene is fizzing, there’s more to Porto than sandwich shops and port wine tastings, from Michelin-starred menus to relaxed, wine-focused dining. And then there’s the terraced port vineyards of the Douro Valley, 100km inland.

Sustainable travel tip: Taking the train to Portugal is a much better idea than it might sound – and it only takes 24 hours. First, catch the Eurostar from London to Paris, then the high-speed TGV to Irun in Spain’s Basque Country, followed by the overnight Sud Express to Lisbon, which has sleeper cabins with private showers, and a cafe/bar. After a sophisticated night on the rails, there’s no shortage of direct trains to Porto. Felicidades!

Where to stay: Bijou design hotel Gran Cruz House pairs sorbet-toned rooms with a couldn’t-be-better location and a standout restaurant helmed by one of Portugal’s top chefs. On Rua das Flores, the 16th century Casa da Companhia building blends modern luxury with traditional touches, and hosts regular Port bottle ‘fire openings’ where you can learn about the city’s Port culture. See our guide to the best hotels in Porto for more.

Temperature in January: 23°C high; 8°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 11 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

The coast of Mexico is everything the British winter is not: light, colour, exoticism; warm and spicy and exuberant. Parties on the beach, yoga under the trees, a dip in dappled-light cenotes. We fell for the cosmic vibes of Tulum , and the little barefoot island of Isla Holbox , off the tip of the Yucatán Peninsula. For the haciendas and smart resorts on the Riviera Maya; for colonial Mérida . And over on the west coast, sunny, surfy Sayulita . The weather on both Atlantic and Pacific coasts is wonderful in January: hot but not-too-hot, with barely any rain at all. Required holiday reading: The Lacuna , by Poisonwood Bible author Barbara Kingsolver.

Sustainable travel tip: Where Tulum’s not-so-green practices have made headlines, and the Riviera Maya’s resorts are all about opulence, Isla Holbox’s modus operandi is small-scale and local. The lack of paved roads all but mandates getting around by bicycle; the most convenient way to arrive is by 30-minute ferry from the mainland; restaurants, bars and stores are owned by islanders; and single-use plastics have been banned since 2018.

Where to stay: Near the powdery white sands of Xpu-Ha, the secluded jungle hideaway of Hotel Esencia is a reprieve from bustling resorts and hedonistic eco-hotels. Five minutes from Huanacaxtle Beach, Susurros del Corazón offers an all-inclusive experience with a boutique hotel feel. The newly-revamped Rancho Pescadero is a great choice for the eco-conscious, with an on-site solar farm and a clean-air waste incinerator for both the resort and the local area. See our guide to the best hotels in Mexico for more.

Rwanda, Africa

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 9°C low Season: First dry period Travel time from UK: 10 hours 40 minutes (indirect with Rwandair or Egyptair) Time difference: GMT +2

There are many reasons to go to Rwanda . Its vibrant Kigali exudes an air of positivity from its extraordinarily resilient people. In Akagera National Park, still off-radar on the safari scene, lion and black rhino have been reintroduced, and you’ll spot elephants, giraffes and zebras roaming the savannah – but no other safari tourists. Trek through ancient rainforests, babble with monkeys – colobus, baboon, chimpanzee. But it’s Rwanda’s mountain gorillas that are the blockbuster draw. Not even 100 people a day are permitted to trek, accompanied by trackers, into the Virunga cloud forest of Volcanoes National Park, for a close encounter with the critically endangered creatures – a moving, once-in-a-lifetime experience. It’s possible any time of year – whenever you can get a coveted permit – but as the first dry period, January is one of the best months for trekking.

Sustainable travel tip : The income from carefully monitored responsible tourism funds the conservation of Rwanda’s mountain gorillas.

Where to stay: Two of Africa’s most sensational lodges are found not far from Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and the gorillas: Bisate , Wilderness Safaris’ thatched, curvaceous and exquisitely designed eco-lodge and One&Only Gorilla’s Nest .

The Japanese Alps

Temperature in January: 3°C high; –5°C low Season: Winter Travel time from UK: 11 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT +9

Most tourists miss Honshu’s mountainous Nagano Prefecture, which rewards the more intrepid traveller with unique experiences in this eternally surprising land. It is home to the drama and forested beauty of the Japanese Alps; the Nakasendo Way winding through the Kiso Valley and Kiso Mountain peaks which, in January, are white with snow. In Joshinetsu National Park, the ski resort of Shiga Kogen is massive – 51 lifts and dozens of hotels – but still little-known to overseas visitors, its slopes uncluttered. Apres-ski here is all about sushi feasts and restorative bathing in the natural onsen baths… perhaps even, in Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park, surrounded by scarlet-faced macaques who wallow in the steaming pools to keep warm.

Sustainable travel tip : Stays at Zenagi support Nagano’s rural communities and the restaurant uses ingredients grown by local suppliers.

Where to stay: In Nagano’s Kiso forest – where forest bathing is said to have originated – Zenagi is a 300-year-old Kominka house, its traditional architecture offset by the exquisite modern restoration and furniture locally made by craftsfolk.

Andaman Islands

Temperature in January: 29°C high; 21°C low Season: Dry and cool Travel time from UK: 9 hours 50 minutes to Chennai; 2 hours to Havelock Time difference: GMT +5.5

A castaway fantasy of white-sand cays and lagoons of tropical blue, the Andamans are the Indian Ocean archipelago on which few have set barefoot. Surfers and backpackers seeking next-level undiscovered make the 60-hour voyage by basic boat from Kolkata or Chennai, to stay in shacks along its pristine shores. In the past decade or so, more luxurious digs have been set up: primarily the Taj Exotica , in five-star splendour on Havelock island; and the more boutique Jalakara , set up by an Englishman and his wife.

Sustainable travel tip : Experiences here are all-natural: swimming, snorkelling, surfing, nature trails and bird walks.

Where to stay: As well as Taj Exotica and Jalakara, Barefoot at Havelock is a rustic delight.

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 19°C low Season: Winter Travel time from UK: 9 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Winter in Jamaica – when temperatures dip to a cool 30ºC by day – is a bright and balmy affair. This vibrant island dances to its own rhythms throughout January with music festivals from reggae (St Ann’s Rebel Salute) to rock’n’roll (Peter’s Players Winterfest). Jamaica’s music scene has always been world-leading, and never more so than right now. January is also one of the loveliest times to go for peak beach weather, the sea deliciously warm for swimming; and also for hiking – to waterfalls along the One Love Trail, or up through coffee plantations to the peak of the Blue Mountains.

Sustainable travel tip : Eco-forward Stush in the Bush serves delicious, homegrown plant-based Rastafari-Ital dishes – as well as gathering rainwater for the local community and generating solar power.

Where to stay: Ian Fleming’s former home GoldenEye is now one of several Jamaica boltholes owned by Island Records boss Chris Blackwell – and remains a legend. Its history is richly storied; Island Records brought Bob Marley to the world, and GoldenEye, in turn, has brought a string of musicians to the island, who have written songs in its waterside huts.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Temperature in January: 20°C high; 13°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 4 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT +0

It’s no secret the Canary Islands offer reliable winter sun – but it may surprise that there’s another side to Lanzarote. Skip the east coast’s gaudy mega-hotels and you’ll discover a very cool Canary. Much of the built landscape owes a debt to local architect César Manrique, who designed many of the islands must-see architectural feats: Jardín de Cactus, his magical cactus amphitheatre; or the home he designed for himself, where cave-like rooms are carved into lava bubbles (now home to the Fundacíon César Manrique). Speaking of which, the island’s volcanic landscape is its own art project. Timanfaya National Park presents a ravishing patchwork of rainbow-hued earth. If climbing a volcano doesn’t do it for you, get wet: dive underwater through the art park Museo Atlántico, or surf local favourite Famara beach, a dramatic stretch to the north.

Sustainable travel tip: There’s no slow boat to Lanzarote, but lots of budget airlines fly here – and a few are genuinely attempting to reduce emissions. EasyJet , in fact, is rather progressive as carbon-gushing corporations go.

Where to stay: Finca Malvasia is a four-apartment hotel in Lanzarote's central La Geria wine region that's packed with funky touches such as volcanic-stone walls and cactus gardens. for a private stay, bed down in one of our favourite villas in Lanzarote .

Silver Lake, Los Angeles

Temperature in January: 20°C high; 10°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 11 hours 15 minutes Time difference: GMT -8

Now Venice has officially made the transition from edgy to upscale, where do you go in LA for more boho, less bling? Head east to Silver Lake. There might not be a beach, but the chilled neighbourhood vibe more than compensates. Houses spill down jungly hills to palm-lined boulevards jammed with vintage T-shirts and vinyl. Behold the surf shops and farmers' markets, street murals and food trucks, plus indie clubs that launched Foo Fighters and Foster The People. Think of it as an unending summer of hip, young cool – even in January. And, as with any self-respecting creative hub, it’s where food trends are born: see Trois Familia’s French-Mexican brunch, with beet-tartare tostada and churro French toast

Sustainable travel tip: LA traffic is notorious, and its subpar public transportation even more so, but you can do your bit by renting a hybrid car.

Where to stay: The Palihouse Santa Monica boutique beach lodge is in a Spanish Colonial Revival-style building, a range of suites with a home-from-home philosophy.

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 19°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 8 hours Time difference: GMT -1

A smattering of volcanic islands 350 miles off the coast of Senegal, Cape Verde seems a lonely prospect at first look, out in the mid-Atlantic. But there’s a reason it’s fast become a fly-and-flop favourite: miles of uninterrupted ivory beaches, impossibly pure surf and an intriguing lunar landscape. Not to mention its consistently sunny disposition: January’s average temperature is 25˚C. And finally, there’s a lovely little eco lodge to rival the big hotels and budget guesthouses. Run entirely on renewable energy, Spinguera is a restored fishing village with its own private beach on the north coast of Boa Vista island (translation: good view). Think charming, stone-hewn villas with bright yellow shutters, fresh, white bedrooms and lantern-lit sunset suppers. You could while away every day right here. Or go island-hopping to explore more of Cape Verde’s craggy beauty: from Sal’s red deserts and salt pans to São Vicente, the heart of its colourful Afro-Portuguese culture.

Sustainable travel tip: Try exploring the islands by ferry. Some routes are more regular and reliable than others, such as São Vicente to lush and mountainous Santo Antão, and Santiago to rugged Fogo (where there’s a vineyard in a volcanic crater).

Where to stay: At Odjo d'Agua Hotel , a small, locally owned hotel with a garden, a pool, anachronistically decorated rooms (antiques and curios, fishing equipment and so on) and an open-air restaurant-bar jutting out into the sea, where you can dine as the Atlantic rollers crash past.

Montreal, Canada

Temperature in January: -4°C high; -12°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 7 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

If a rave in sub-zero temperatures sounds appealing, Montréal is for you. The city’s annual January Igloofest tempts parka-clad party people outside with a line-up of world-class EDM acts. Elsewhere, the French château architecture looks fabulous with frosting, and you can go snowshoeing up Mount Royal for excellent city views (it’s more of a hill, really, right in the middle of town). Mile End’s hipsters have been replaced by good-looking young families, but its food institutions remain: warm up with classic smoked-meat sandwiches at Schwartz’s Deli, or St-Viateur’s hot-out-the-oven, hand-rolled bagels (thinner and sweeter than New York ’s). For a comforting treat in the cold, poutine is considered a delicacy – try it at Au Pied de Cochon or Garnde Manger. If you need to come in from the cold, there’s the Underground City – a network of shops, museums and restaurants below downtown’s core.

Sustainable travel tip: In hip warehouse district Griffintown the Hôtel Alt Montréal , from Canadian-owned Groupe Germain, has been designed with sustainability in mind: think geothermal heating and energy-saving lighting.

Where to stay: Auberge du Vieux-Port , located on the riverfront in Vieux Montreal, has a restaurant and a rooftop terrace with views of the St-Lawrence River and the Old Port.

Temperature in January: 32°C high; 24°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: from 12 hours 50 minutes Time difference: GMT -5

Finding a photograph-worthy beach in Panama – a compact country with two long coasts – is easy. Finding a suitably chic stay to match is more of a challenge. Maybe that’s why this gem gets overshadowed by its rowdy neighbours, Colombia and Costa Rica. But that’s all starting to change, now, thanks to the Islas Secas . On a remote, private archipelago of the same name, just 20 miles off Panama’s Pacific shore, this retreat leaves you marooned in luxury: it's home to four individually designed Casita sites and three Tented Casitas, all located on one of the islands and sleeping up to 24 guests. Expect expert-led excursions to uninhabited islands and jungles, and complete silence come nightfall. Changing gears, the Panama Jazz Festival makes January the best time to visit for a musical party. Hole up in Central America’s first W hotel , or head for the Casco Viejo . Once controlled by gangs, the capital’s old quarter is now flooded with cool new outfits revitalising crumbling colonial buildings, including romantic boutique bolthole La Concordia.

Sustainable travel tip: Billionaire conservation philanthropist Louis Bacon bought the Islas Secas archipelago on the condition that 13 of its 14 islands would remain undeveloped. The whole retreat runs on solar energy, plus all water used gets recycled. Alternatively, choose a completely untouched beach getaway: the Caribbean coast’s San Blas Islands are protected by an indigenous Panamanian tribe, the Guna. No hotels, no big-name restaurants: just simple huts and hammocks on deserted sands. Pass on flying here – you can catch a speedboat just outside Panama City.

Where to stay: Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo , the former Union Club of Panama, with its waterfront infinity pool, immersive spa program and spacious personal terraces that overlook the glittering downtown skyline. For a pretty retreat on a coffee farm in the mountain area of Boquete, Los Establos has spacious suites, great views and plenty of activities on offer.

Paddington, Sydney, Australia

Temperature in January: 27°C high; 20°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 22 hours 30 minutes Time difference: GMT +10

If Sydney is urban done right – laid-back, cosmopolitan and perpetually beachy – then Paddington is suburban perfection. Fashionable and well-heeled, it’s got all the buzz of a central district, but with the charm of a village. Colourful Victorian terrace rows flaunting wrought-iron balconies could be Notting Hill. Main promenade Oxford Street bustles with cafés, pubs and boutiques, while back alleys are home to cool galleries, design studios and cute bars. Nicky Zimmermann started out selling her designs at Paddington’s famous Saturday markets; find her spacious store on Glenmore Road. Or join the 'Paddo' foodies at Fred’s, where chef Danielle Alvarez’s kitchen cooks farm-to-table comfort food. January is quintessential Sydney summer, with balmy temperatures, and the Sydney Festival packing the city with music and art.

Sustainable travel tip: Though Qantas conducted a successful nonstop London to Sydney research flight in late 2019 – clocking in at 19 hours and 19 minutes – it isn’t yet commercially available. Which means getting to Oz still entails a carbon-heavy indirect route. But you can choose to eat and shop sustainably while you’re there. Sydney, in fact, offers a lot of innovative ways to leave a lighter footprint, from Paddington’s zero-waste fashion boutique EkoLuv, to 'rescued food' market Oz Harvest, and sustainable seafood restaurant Love Fish, in the waterfront Barangaroo development, designed to be Australia’s first carbon-neutral precinct.

Where to stay: The Dive Hotel , a groovy family-run guesthouse in Coogee, is about 8km southeast of central Sydney. A cursory glance at the crisp cotton sheets, polished floorboards and blue-tiled bathrooms reveals that this hotel doesn't live up (or down) to its name. Over in Surry Hills, Ace Hotel pays homage to the area’s creative roots with a diverse selection of music, talks, workshops and Pride parties, including a First Nations’ artist-in-residence program showcasing works from Aboriginal and other boundary-pushing artists .

Nicaragua, Central America

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 23°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 13 hours Time difference: GMT -6

Warning: a youthful wanderlust may return when you read this feature about Nicaragua . Quite possibly the Central American country that has it all: tropical rainforests and untouched beaches, fringed with palms, distant cloud-capped volcanoes, and recently some extraordinarily special eco-lodges (see our sustainable travel tip). January has the double blessing of being the month with the best temperatures everywhere, and also the least rainfall (barely any at all) on Nicaragua's Pacific Coast.

Sustainable travel tip: Half the appeal of going to Nicaragua is losing yourself in the wild, and there are plenty of smart yet eco ways to do it. On the coast, Totoco Eco-Lodge is made up of private casitas, a pool and bougainvillaea-filled gardens but also has compost loos and works with solar power and recycled water; even your morning coffee is sourced from a neighbouring finca. Jungle-clad Jicaro Island Lodge is built from reclaimed mahogany and cedar wood, while idyllic seaside farmhouse Morgan’s Rock grows all its own food.

Where to stay: Los Patios Hotel , a five-bedroom gem with an indoor-outdoor approach to living, with scrubbed, Scandi-style interiors and open-air spaces designed for chilling out.

The coast of Brazil, South America

Temperature in January: 30°C high; 24°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 12 hours 40 minutes Time difference: GMT -3

Worth splurging all your annual leave in January for. Spend your New Year's Eve in Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo and then stay on for a couple more weeks and head up the coast to any number of preposterously gorgeous, barefoot-n-bikini-chic beach havens. So many thousands of miles of empty, golden sand, and beautiful people drinking caipirinhas at the coolest beach parties. The kind of places that really get our travel clichés rolling. Trancoso , in Bahia, is the original and still one of the best. Surfy Itacaré, the no-car islands of Boipeba and Tinharé. Or Sao Luís and Jericoacoara, on the wild and stunning north-east coast.

Sustainable travel tip: Carbon emissions in the Amazon forest have rocketed in recent years due to a lack of enforcement of environmental protection policies. As well as a devastating increase in deforestation in the world's largest rainforest, uncontrolled wildfires have ravaged one of the most climate-important carbon sinks in a region of rich biological and cultural diversity. Give financial support by booking nature-based activities through Indigenous-owned businesses which support the forest folk on the frontlines. To reduce your own carbon footprint, choose a direct flight route, since it’s the taking off and landing parts that burn the most fossil fuels. Choosing an energy-efficient low-cost carrier also means less kerosene combusted per passenger – consider Norwegian Air, for example, from London Gatwick to Rio.

Where to stay: Uxua Casa Hotel & Spa . A ramshackle façade disguises this utterly fabulous hotel. Ten beautiful houses are set among high-growing gardens. Bathrooms have living walls of ferns, orchids and jasmine, and there's a spa and a pool lined with green aventurine stones.

Belize, Central America

Temperature in January: 28°C high; 20°C low Season: dry Travel time from UK: 16 hours 20 minutes Time difference: GMT -6

It is hot and humid and it rains a lot in Belize, beset as it is by tropical storms and hurricanes. But don't let that put you off. It is the perfect Caribbean escape for those who like it rough and palm-fringed around the edges, with tropical jungly highlands, Mayan ruins and the most astoundingly beautiful beaches, just a handful of hippies and beach bums to share them with. January and February are the best months, only pleasantly hot and not too wet.

Sustainable travel tip: Those who sign up to a five-day diving trip with Much Better Adventures can be part of the conservation effort to protect the Belize Barrier Reef, spearing invasive lionfish, training in conservation work and helping with research.

Where to stay: Itz’ana , a hotel with a beautiful rattan- and plant-decorated restaurant and a bar with a great pool.

South Africa

Temperature in January: 26°C high; 16°C low Season: summer Travel time from UK: 10 hours 45 minutes Time difference: GMT +2

So, so many reasons to go, but briefly: amazing food and wine , beaches, hotels. Sensational scenery, from the Garden Route and Western Cape to the Little Karoo . Completely thrilling wildlife encounters on safari, staying at the most incredible lodges; or along the coastline, in knock-out villas . January is one of the best months for all those things. Wine can be drunk all year round. And because it's in the same time zone, you don't even get jet lag once you're home again. Shame we can't say the same about hangovers.

Sustainable travel tip: When choosing a safari, make sure your money is poured back into supporting the park. The likes of Kruger and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, where rhino poaching is rife, need these funds for anti-poaching schemes.

Where to stay: At Silo Hotel , the best hotel in Cape Town for eclectic design and wraparound views. Its compact footprint packs a punch and includes the best rooftop bar and pool in the city.

Bruges, Belgium

Temperature in January: 6°C high; 2°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 1 hours 10 minutes Time difference: GMT +1

For snow, beer and chips. The beautiful little Belgian city is one of those rare places that is just as enticing in the bleak midwinter as in summer: pretty in the snow, 'beautiful f**king fairytale stuff', to quote the film In Bruges (which is all the research you need). And the snow is an excellent excuse for holing up somewhere, because this city also has some of the most inviting reasons to stay indoors: interesting interiors, welcoming taverns full of good cheer and much Belgian beer, antiques and junk shops to poke around, gorgeous old guesthouses on the canals, candlelit bars and restaurants, moules-frites and cream-and-kirsch-laden puddings. A long weekend is enough time to see everything and put on a stone in weight.

Sustainable travel tip: Our friends in the north have an advantage when it comes to getting to Bruges sustainably – the overnight ferry from Hull. The good news for southerners: the Eurostar travels direct from London to Brussels in just two hours, and from Brussels there are trains to Bruges every 30 minutes that take just over an hour.

Where to stay: Number 11 , three 17th-century gable houses containing four wooden-floored bedrooms which combine antique and contemporary furniture, tactile fabrics, interesting prints and fresh flowers. Go for the deluxe suite, a ground-floor apartment with its own entrance, Champagne-stocked fridge and a bathtub for two.

Rajasthan, India

Temperature in January: 24°C high; 8°C low Season: winter Travel time from UK: 14 hours 25 minutes Time difference: GMT +5.30

India's state of princes is spectacular in January. It's pleasantly warm, the holiday crowds have vanished and you can dance through its palaces as if on your own private Bollywood set. Don't miss the jewels in its crown - pastel-hued Jaipur , turquoise-speckled Jodhpur and romantically golden Udaipur - but leave room in your itinerary for a few forgotten treasures : serene Jal Mahal or the lost city of Bhangarh. January also provides the perfect weather for an Arabian Nights-style safari in Jaisalmer, where you can traverse the desert on the back of a camel and sleep under the stars.

Sustainable travel tip: Rajasthan’s train network is excellent and largely runs on time. But reserve well in advance to secure the more comfortable cabin classes – 1AC and 2AC provide bunks with privacy curtains, towels and bedding – because they get snapped up fast. You can book through the Indian Railways site, which requires a frustrating registration process but is doable if you’re the patient type, or else use the quick and easy online agency 12go.asia .

Where to stay: Lakshaman Sagar was originally constructed in the 19th-century as a hunting lodge, and has since been converted into a luxury getaway set over 32 acres of land in Raipur. The resort features 12 villas, private dining and lounging spaces, a spa, and swimming pool.

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The Best Places to Travel in Europe in January

Come January, the holiday season is over, and you may be a few pounds heavier and a few (hundred) dollars lighter. You might be sick of traveling, too, if you had to make your way through jam-packed airports and bumper-to-bumper traffic to see friends and family this holiday season. That said, if you stop traveling in December, you’ll miss out on some magical experiences. Winter is an amazing time to visit Europe so you can take advantage of cheaper prices, fewer crowds, and picturesque winter wonderlands . You may have to brave colder temperatures, but that can be part of the fun. Bundle up in warm jackets, hats, scarves, and mittens and enjoy snowy activities, including sleigh rides and ice castle tours in some of Europe’s most fascinating cities and landscapes. Then, take a break from sightseeing and warm up in cozy restaurants and interesting museums. Book a winter getaway at one of these best places to visit in Europe in January.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Rovaniemi is the perfect destination for a wintry vacation filled with snowy fun. Get around on a snowmobile, a dog sled, or a reindeer sleigh, and try some winter sports including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or ice fishing. Rovaniemi is also a great walking city, and there are several walking tours and museums to experience to learn a little more about this Finnish town. Consider buying the Culture Pass, which gets you into three attractions for one price. With this pass, you can learn about the history of Lapland and Arctic research at Arktikum, get to know northern contemporary art in the Korundi House of Culture, and familiarize yourself with the northern forests at Science Centre Pilke.

Take a Hurtigruten Cruise along the stunning Norwegian coast this January for a unique winter vacation. The cruise line offers trips that take you to the Arctic Circle and North Cape, where you’ll take in picturesque winter scenery. Plus, there’s a chance you can even catch a glimpse of the northern lights. Be sure to check out Oslo, where you take a fjord cruise or learn about Nordic history at the Viking Ship Museum. Try cross-country skiing or sledding at Korketrekkeren. While you’re there, visit Frognerseteren, an old-fashioned cafe that has views of the Oslofjorden and serves apple pie, hot chocolate, and, of course, Norwegian waffles.

The Canary Islands

If you want to skip the wintry wonderlands and go for a warm island vacation in January, try the Canary Islands, which share Africa’s climate but are actually part of Spain. While on the islands, you hike on volcanoes, like the famous Mount Teide on Tenerife. You can also try tackling Roque de los Muchachos, which reaches almost 8,000 feet in elevation (but it gets cold in the winter, so bundle up if you plan to reach the top).

While it might be a little too chilly to enjoy the beaches, there are plenty of other activities on the islands. Take time to go off-roading on sand dunes and enjoy the local Canarian cuisine.

A New Year's swim on the first day of the year is a Canary Island tradition in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. Be sure to also check out the Canary Islands International Music Festival, which happens in January and February.

Vienna, Austria

This city is famous for its Christmas markets, but you can enjoy its unique history and culture in January without the holiday crowds. Stop into a local cafe to experience Viennese coffee house culture and warm up with a toasty beverage after a day of touring the city. If you’re in Vienna for the New Year, try following the Silvesterpfad, a New Year’s Eve trail which takes you to different stages with live music. Stop and enjoy a glass of mulled wine or champagne while you prep for the coming year.

Bavaria, Germany

Southern Germany is lovely throughout the year, but it turns into a snowy wonderland during the winter months. Think about basing yourself in Munich, an urban center that is walkable and offers several nearby day trip options. Consider traveling to Salzburg, Austria or visiting Munich Residenz, the former home of the royal family and the largest city palace in Germany.

January may be the best time of year to visit the nearby famous Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria. This castle is known as the inspiration for Cinderella’s castle at Walt Disney World, and it’s going to look even prettier covered in snow.

London, England

Take in this historic city in January and skip the holiday crowds. You can wander down quiet streets and visit museums like the Tate Modern (which features modern art) or the National Gallery, which has works from da Vinci, van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Michelangelo.

During the day, visit historic sites like the Tower of England (where you can view the Crown Jewels) or Westminster Abbey. Then warm up in a cozy pub with a pint and some fish and chips.

Gstaad, Switzerland

January is the best time to visit western Switzerland. There’s tons of great skiing, with runs to fit every level — from beginners to experts. You can even try night skiing at Rinderberg, which stays open late with floodlit slopes. Each year, the nearby town of Château-d’Oex hosts a nine-day hot air balloon festival, and the snow-capped mountains make a perfect backdrop for the hundreds of colorful balloons that decorate the sky.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Consider ringing in the new year in the party city of Amsterdam. You can visit fascinating museums during the day and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife in the evenings.

Each January, Amsterdam is filled with art installations for the Amsterdam Light Festival, which lasts until January 19. There are 30 different light installations to explore around the city. Then, you can try ice skating at Ice Amsterdam at Museumplein, or celebrate National Tulip Day on January 18, where you can pick up a tulip in Dam Square.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

January offers a taste of the famous Formula 1 Grand Prix (held every May) with the Monte-Carlo Rally, held at the end of January. Even though it’s not as exciting as the main event, this race still brings parties and excitement to the city.

While in Monaco, be sure to check out the iconic Monte Carlo Casino, made famous in the James Bond films and books. Stop by the Oceanographic Museum to learn about marine life, or go shopping at the Metropole Shopping Centre and Fontvieille Shopping Centre.

Sierra Nevada, Spain

If you want great skiing without the frigid temperatures, try the southernmost ski region in Europe in the Sierra Nevada mountains of Spain. This resort area has 65 miles of trails with lots of routes for beginner and intermediate skiers.

Be sure to check out the beautiful Alhambra in nearby Granada. The walled palace dates back to the 13th century, and it was home to King Charles V and Queen Isabel during the 16th century.

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34 Best Countries to Visit in January (Perfect for Relaxation & Adventure)

Posted on Published: September 3, 2022  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

Dreaming of a January getaway? From amazing beach vacations to exploring winter wonderlands, the winter is a fantastic time to travel! So if you’ve ever wondered what are the best countries to visit in January – here’s your list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether your idea of the best place to visit in January is to escape the cold and look for sun or the beach, or you’re wishing for snowy adventures like skiing and ice castles, this list has a little bit of everything.

Some of these destinations are in the shoulder season, so you’ll find affordable pricing, which is always a bonus, too! From experiencing destinations with tons of culture to cities with amazing food scenes, you’ll find the perfect spot for your vacation in January.

Covering countries from all over the world, this list is going to inspire you to start searching for flights! Let’s dive in!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best countries to visit in January

From the Alps to the Caribbean and some underrated spots you haven’t thought of, this list covers a lot! Use this map as a visual to help you plan your vacation in January.

Pinch and zoom in to narrow down on a region that you’re considering, then check out the descriptions below.

Oh, and by the way, since I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with this list. I think you’re gonna love it.😉

Best countries to visit in January

January is a fabulous time to travel! Whether you’re looking to escape the winter cold and hit the beach, you’re up for adventure in a new city, or you’re wishing for a winter wonderland to enjoy, here’s some amazing destinations.

1. Costa Rica (one of the best places to visit in January for sun)

Average temp:  high 78, low 64 (varied by region) Fly into:  Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose

If you’re looking for the best countries to visit in January, then Costa Rica absolutely needs to be on your radar! Zipline through cloud forests, watch monkeys and toucans dance around in the trees, dip your toes into luxurious sandy beaches and enjoy great food, Costa Rica has so much to offer visitors.

December through April is dry season, as it’s when you’ll see the best weather in Costa Rica. Although the temperatures vary based on which region you travel to, it’s still a great getaway than being stuck in the cold back home.

Visit the famous Arenal Volcano and enjoy the hot springs in La Fortuna. Still in the mountainous region, there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde , including ziplining and walking the suspension bridges through the cloud forests.

For a perfect beach getaway, head west to Tamarindo, where you can hit the water surfing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. With hotels and restaurants sprinkled throughout the beach, it’s a great spot to spend a few days.

If you’re looking for more adventure, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can witness monkeys and sloths hanging about!

Be sure to spend some time at the best beaches in Manuel Antonio , including my favorite, Playa Espadilla Sur. There’s so many things to do in Manuel Antonio , you could spend an entire vacation just in this area.

Costa Rica is definitely one of the best places to visit in January for sun, and a destination you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Average temp:  high 37, low 27 (varies by region) Fly into:  Vienna International Airport, Schwechat

Austria is a landlocked country between Germany and Italy, located in Central Europe. The alps extend from the west to the east and create a perfect winter wonderland every year.

People come from all over the world to enjoy the warm and fun ski resort experience in the Austrian mountains. There is something for everyone, from skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, ice skating, snow walking, sledging to country cross skiing.

A mulled wine or a Jagertee warm up every cold heart! Villages and cities are decorated with wonderful lights, creating a magical dreamy environment, the perfect place for a vacation in January. This is the best time to relax body and soul in some of the most remarkable thermal baths and sauna villages in Central Europe.

Old traditions make Austria a unique place to be in January. They can still be experienced at the beginning of January, the Perchten run in the Tyrol region and the Glöckler run in Styria. The capital city Vienna, as well as other well-known cities such as Salzburg and Innsbruck, are for all those looking for classic inspiration and the vibes of a long gone empire.

Curious travelers can discover more  top places in Austria . Definitely check out Vorarlberg, a mountainous state in the west, including the charming Bregenzerwald, Austria .

The weather in Austria in January is usually between 0 and 50 Fahrenheit. The higher one travels, the colder it gets.

The best way to get to Austria is via the Vienna airport, located in the east. Other options include the Salzburg airport, Innsbruck airport or even the much larger Munich airport in Germany.

The Austria Trend Hotels provide the most comfortable and memorable stays in Austria. Budget-travelers will want to look out for homely vacation rental properties. Things can be a bit expensive in Austria in January, but your journey will be less costly than a stay in neighboring Switzerland.

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

3. Colombia

Average temp:  high 66, low 45 Fly into:  El Dorado International Airport, Bogota

The South American country of Colombia is a great destination in January – in fact, it’s one of the best weather times to visit of the entire year! In January, the sun is shining, the weather is warm (though there is a huge variety of average temperatures throughout the country), and the rain is low. 

In general, Colombia is a great place to visit, no matter the time of year. It’s a very inexpensive country to travel to, and there’s a wide variety of things to see and do. The capital city of Bogota has an old town filled with colonial architecture, cobblestoned streets, and a wide variety of historical buildings and world class museums. 

Or, you can visit the Coffee Region of Colombia, such as the little, colorful town of Salento. Here, you can visit the coffee farms of Colombia or go hiking in the Cocora Valley, a magical hike into the mountains, where you can see the famous wax palms of Colombia – the tallest palms in the world that grow up to 200 feet high!

Finally, a must visit spot in Colombia is the coastal city of Cartagena, a photogenic, absolutely gorgeous colonial walled city with colorful buildings covered in plants and flowers. 

As you travel throughout Colombia, you’ll likely take a quick plane ride between the different cities. Many people choose to start their Colombia adventure by flying into the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota, and staying in Bogota at the Magdalena Guest House is a perfectly located spot to start your exploration of this gorgeous and varied country in South America. 

Colombia is one of the best places to visit in January for sun, culture and history!

Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

4. Aruba (a favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 86, low 76 Fly into:  Queen Beatrix International Airport, Oranjestad

If you’re looking for a beachy escape from the clutches of old man winter, look no further than gorgeous Aruba! January is a fantastic time to visit not only to enjoy sunny skies and 80-degree weather, but it’s also a unique place to ring in the New Year .

Typically, New Year’s Eve is kicked off with loads of fireworks throughout the city (if you were planning to sleep – good luck 😉), from large displays over the water to traditional Pagara (long strings of Chinese firecrackers) throughout the streets; there’s no end to colorful and fiery displays.

After that, the party doesn’t stop! Throughout January and into February, there are countless parades like the nighttime Torch Light Parade and other festivities in honor of Carnival . The official start of Carnival is in November, but most of the festivities happen in January and February.

Because of these fun festivities, you should expect to pay a little more for accommodations. To get the best deal, book early!

Aside from a colorful party scene, Aruba is also known for mesmerizing white sand beaches like Palm and Eagle Beach. These are 2 great spots to kick back and relax with a fruity cocktail. They’re some of the best beaches in Aruba !

After relaxing, you’ll have an endless selection of dining options, including Dutch, Asian, African and it’s even one of the most  vegan-friendly Caribbean Islands!

Aruba is one of the best beach vacations in January, and a destination you’ll love.

Recommended by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

Average temp:  high 37, low 26 (varies by region) Fly into:  Keflavík International Airport, Keflavik

If you’re looking for an epic winter adventure, consider visiting Iceland in January. 

While the days may be short here, you’ll get to enjoy Iceland’s spectacular scenery to yourself, given that the summer crowds have long departed. Better yet, you’ll likely get to see Iceland covered with glistening snow. This is a fantastic time to explore the country’s ice caves or go on a glacier hike!

People travel from all over the world to Iceland in January, given that it’s one of the absolute best months to see the spectacular Northern Lights, thanks to the long, dark nights.

You can either book a guided tour to try to find the lights or drive outside of major cities, away from light pollution, to spot them yourself. Patience is key- seeing the lights depends on whether there’s solar activity, as well as whether there’s clouds obscuring the night sky. 

Another excellent winter activity here is taking advantage of any of the geothermal hot springs you’ll find scattered throughout the country. The springs may be more natural, like the Hellulaug Hot Pool, which is just an organically-formed pool overlooking the ocean, or can be straight up swanky, like the recently opened Sky Lagoon, with an infinity pool and sauna with stunning views of Kársnes Harbour.

The easiest way to reach this tiny island country is to fly into Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport.  Iceland’s weather in January is cold, but not as chilly as its Northern location might suggest, thanks to the relatively warm water from the gulf stream- you can expect temperatures to generally range from 26 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. 

So be sure to include lots of warm layers on your Iceland packing list , like a base layer, parka, and gloves so you can actually enjoy exploring Iceland’s incredible landscape.

You’ll love visiting Iceland – perhaps absolute best place to vacation in January for adventure!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

6. Thailand

Average temp:  high 89, low 73 Fly into:  Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok / Phuket International Airport, Phuket

Thailand is an incredible place, and one of the best countries to visit in January. With a large variety of destinations to see within Thailand, you’ll need to decide what kind of experience you want to have, and plan your vacation accordingly.

If you’re looking for beautiful temples, rich in historic architecture loaded with history, then Bangkok or Chiang Mai might be the right spot for you. Stay in the city a few days to soak in the sights. Be sure to take a food tour, and if your’e in Bangkok, visit the floating markets.

If a beach getaway is what you’re after, you have a variety of choices as well. The Phi Phi Islands offer some of the most pristine beaches in all of Thailand. Or, you can opt for Krabi, where there’s a mix of beaches and historical sights to explore.

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, and for good reason. With beautiful white sand beaches and plenty of amenities and accommodations, there’s something for everyone.

Take a snorkeling tour or day trip to Coral Island Phuket to see the area. And with an international airport, it’s easier to get to Phuket than some of the other islands in Thailand.

January is a fabulous time to visit Thailand because it’s the dry season. With plenty of sunshine, culture, food and activities, you’re sure to have a great time in Thailand!

7. France (one of the best places to visit in January Europe)

Average temp:  high 56, low 37 (varies by region) Fly into:  Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur, Nice

The month of January is a  great time to visit France because it is less crowded. Since it’s part of the low season, hotel and flight prices are more affordable.

Outside of the capital, Strasbourg in the north is a fantastic alternative. The Cathedral, art galleries, and taverns serving hearty plates of sauerkraut and local wines await visitors to this peaceful and unhurried city.

However, the French Riviera may be the best choice for people who prefer a warmer vacation in January. Also known as La Côte d’Azur (Azure Coast), it is accessible via the Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur which is the second busiest international airport in France next to Paris. The French Riviera is a good option for those who prefer milder temperatures. 

Visiting the French Riviera in January will show you a more laid-back side of France, free of curious tourists and offering more affordable rates. Fewer visitors mean you get a good deal in even the more expensive hotel rooms, as well as cheaper meals in the area’s top restaurants.

A highly recommended place to stay in the  Royal Antibes , a stylish modern hotel with a prime location on the beach. The price of a room with huge glass windows and great views starts at slightly over €100.

You can spend your days touring the Côte d’Azur in between taking in the breathtaking vistas of the sea and basking in the mild Mediterranean weather . Enjoy the crisp winter days hiking the French Riviera’s beautiful trails, including the spectacular route over Èze-village or the Baou above St. Jeannet, with superb views over the Var Valley.

You might also find mimosas in the village of Tanneron, which is also home to Europe’s largest mimosa forest, the Massif de Tanneron.

The town of Menton, meanwhile, is known for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved old town center. The ancient walled city of Antibes is also well worth exploring. And if you want to experience a winter vacation like celebrities, you can also explore Cannes. 

Recommended by Christine of Journey To France

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link .

Average temp:  high 82, low 71 Fly into:  

Situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles, in the American West Indies,  Antigua is arguably one of the prettiest Caribbean islands.  

Although it is a favorite destination for honeymoons and romantic escapes, it makes a perfect vacation for any kind of traveler that is not on a budget. 

It is in fact quite an expensive destination, especially if you choose to stay at one of the beautiful Antigua all inclusive resorts on the pristine Caribbean coast, which is very much recommended if you want to enjoy the island at its best. 

Antigua and Barbuda is actually made of the 2 namesake islands and many small islets, some of which are great snorkeling spots that you can visit by joining one of the boat tours available. 

Antigua is one of the best countries to visit in January because it’s dry season with less risk of rain. So expect a lot of sunshine and blue sky. But also it’s the most expensive time of the year to travel to Antigua, for the same reason, which is something to keep in mind as well.

Antigua is renowned for its incredible beaches (they say there are 365, one for each day of the year) and spectacular landscapes. Its home to gorgeous scenery with lush hills tumbling over the white sand beaches and the turquoise Caribbean sea.

Among the things you shouldn’t miss in Antigua, besides getting pampered in your gorgeous luxury hotel, are:

• Rent a car to explore all the spectacular beaches, including Darkwood beach, Dickenson bay and Half Moon Bay
• Dance at the sound of calypso music at Shirley Heights on a Sunday while watching the sun going down
• Try the local cuisine in one of the delicious restaurants on the beach
• Take a walk around the historical site of Nelson Dockyard at English Harbour and join one of the boat tours around the island. 

If you’re traveling on a budget you can also find more modest accommodations but keep in mind that the overall cost of living in the island is high. 

Recommended by Isabella of Boundless Roads

Best place to vacation in January

Can you believe this list? And we’re just getting started! Let’s keep exploring all the amazing winter getaways!

Average temp:  high 72, low 41 (varies by region) Fly into:  Benito Juárez International Airport, Mexico City

If you’re looking for a sunny getaway this January, take a trip adventuring around Mexico. As a massive country, enjoy everything from the vibrant Mexico City to the stunning cenotes of the Riviera Maya to colonial cultural towns and ancient ruins.

With its close proximity to the equator, Mexico enjoys year-round warm weather, making it the perfect place to escape the cold. One of the best months to visit the country, January is in the midst of Mexico’s dry season when temperatures are excellent and rain levels are low.

Average daytime temperature hovers between 75°F-85°F, but differs from region to region. At this time, colder winds and temperatures hit northern Mexico compared to the higher humidity in the south.

Everyone celebrates Christmas in Mexico, and even though January is a bit late for the festivities, enjoy strolling around every town decorated to the brim with holiday decor. January also signals the start of amazing festivals like Merida Fest, Fiesta Grande de Chiapa de Corzo, and Carnaval Jiutepec in Cuernavaca.

Most international flights will land you in the capital Mexico City or other popular tourist hotspots like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas. From there, a  fantastic public transportation system  can bring you to any neighboring cities and tourist attractions.

For those landing in Mexico City, book a stay in Hotel MX Centro as a starting point for your Mexico adventure!

Recommended by Catherine of Nomadicated

Average temp:  high 62, low 46 (varies by region) Fly into:  Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, Malaga

If you are looking for a warm winter destination, the south of Spain and the Spanish islands are excellent options. Enjoy the mild temperatures and sunny days, discover beautiful landmarks and landscapes and immerse yourself in the food culture.

Travelling to the south of Spain or the Spanish islands in January is a smart choice to avoid crowds, extreme heat and high prices on flights and accommodation.

There are many incredible destinations in these parts of Spain, but a popular choice in the south of Spain is Malaga, the best destination for anyone that wants to escape the cold and rainy winter.

Many people believe that Malaga is a summer getaway, however, there are many reasons to visit Malaga in winter .

One of the reasons is the weather. Temperatures are mild and most days are sunny. The average maximum temperature in January is 16.8°C (62.24°F) which is ideal to do outdoor activities.

This time of the year is fantastic for sightseeing and exploring as the heat and humidity in the summer months don’t allow you to do so.  When visiting Malaga, you can’t miss attractions like the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress palace, the cathedral and Picasso Museum.  

However, if you love nature, you can also enjoy going on beautiful hiking trails. One of the best places to go hiking is Montes de Malaga Nature Park. 

Another good reason to visit Malaga in January is to experience the festive period as Christmas ends on the 6th of January. If you are in the city on the 5th, don’t miss the Three Kings Parade. 

Last but not least, January is the cheapest month to visit Malaga. If you travel from a European country, you will find amazing and budget-friendly flight fares and good accommodation rates too.

The nearest airport to travel to Malaga is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) which is 15 minutes from the city centre, and if you are looking for a hotel, Room Mate Valeria offers beautiful and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

Southern Spain is a lovely winter getaway, and Spain is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in January.

Recommended by Cristina of The Little World of Travelling

Want more Spain travel inspiration? Check out a week in Mallorca – stunning!

11. Belize (another favorite for best beach vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 68 Fly into:  Goldson International Airport, Belize City

The small Central American country of Belize is a dream to visit if you’re looking for a sunny vacation in January. Offering a variety of things to do in Belize from picturesque islands to fun beach towns and ancient ruins to explore, there’s so much to experience!

January is a great time to travel to Belize because many of the holiday tourists are gone and it’s the dry season, so you’ll have gorgeous weather for exploring.

For a beach vacation, head to Ambergris Caye or Placencia. You’ll find beautiful beaches that aren’t overcrowded like they can be in Florida or other spots in the Caribbean.

If you’re looking for history and culture, head inland to San Ignacio and visit the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins . Learn the fascinating history of how the Mayans lived and operated their stone structures while climbing atop the largest in the complex, El Castillo.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation where golf cart is the preferred method to get around or you’re up for chasing waterfalls and seeing monkeys roam through the jungles, Belize has a destination perfect for you!

12. Maldives

Average temp:  high 80, low 77 Fly into:  Velana International Airport, Male

If you’re thinking of starting the New Year with a bang, what better way to do this than laying on a dreamy beach, with white powdered sand and sone of the clearest water in the world? A trip to the Maldives should be on everyone’s bucket list , and January is the perfect time to do it. 

Although it’s right in the middle of the season, January is perfect for a trip to the Maldives as it’s right after the holidays and just before Valentine’s Day, so the prices are really great during these times. You can even find some  affordable water villas  if you dig enough, and you can maybe score a nice room at  this resort that I’m sure you’ve seen on Instagram already.

Getting there is easy, as there’s one main airport used as a hub, located next to the Capital city of Male. From here, you reach your resort island by either speed boat, seaplane, or a combination of the two, but this is handled by the accommodation itself so you really don’t have to worry about anything while on your trip.

And if you usually have a long list of activities to do while on vacation, you’ll have to adjust when in the Maldives: here, you can only lay on a beach or float in the water.

Of course, you can do various water activities like snorkeling, diving, or going on sunset cruises, or you can lay on a sunbed, hammock, or on a massage table, but you get the point. There’s really no better place in the world to relax than this tropical paradise!

Maldives easily earns a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January!

Recommended by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories

13. Singapore

Average temp:  high 87, low 75 Fly into:  Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Singapore is one of the best countries to visit in January for those looking for a warm and sunny getaway. The weather is hot and humid year round but January is one of the cooler months making it a great time to visit.

The temperature will still be hot so it is best to see indoor attractions during midday and early afternoon. The evening is a great time to walk around and explore as Singapore is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

One of the top and most unique  Singapore attractions  is Gardens by the Bay, a large nature park with both outdoor and indoor gardens and conservatories. Don’t miss Supertree Grove, made up of huge tree-shaped vertical gardens, that puts on free light and music shows every night.

Another must do is to walk along the waterfront promenade while enjoying skyline views and passing by landmarks including the ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge and the Merlion statue . Explore and dine at one of the many interesting city neighborhoods such as Kampong Glam, Little India, and Chinatown.

The beautiful Singapore Botanic Gardens is also worth visiting. R ide the cable car to Sentosa Island for family friendly attractions and beaches.

Singapore is very easy to reach by air as it is home to Changi Airport, which is considered an attraction itself. Consider staying at a hotel with a rooftop pool such as the Marina Bay Sands , the iconic hotel known for its long rooftop infinity pool.

Recommended by Matilda of The Travel Sisters

14. Switzerland

Average temp:  high 38, low 28 Fly into:  Zurich International Airport, Zurich

Switzerland is definitely one of the best places to visit in Europe in January if you like snow! 

Since 60% of the country consists of the Alps, it’s designed for winter sport activities. Switzerland has an incredible number of famous ski resorts with a high amount of lifts and gondolas to take you into the beautiful winter wonderland. 

Impressive landscapes, exemplary service and snow reliability, you can expect great skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland. The Alpine country has a lot to offer when it comes to winter sports.

The mountain village of Zermatt, for example, impresses with a total of 360 kilometers (223+ miles) of slopes and over 60 lifts. It’s the largest ski area in Switzerland and one of the best ski resorts in the world.

Enjoy a little less hustle and bustle, a smaller but just as beautiful is Flumserberg  in central Switzerland or Samnaun in the east. No matter which of Switzerland’s many standout spots you choose, t raditional cheese fondue is available almost everywhere , often served in small, beautiful chalets or under open starry skies. 

South of the Alps, in Ticino, snow may not be guaranteed in January, but this region scores with the sunniest days in the country. So, if it’s raining or snowing elsewhere in the country in January, you can take a beautiful walk along Lake Lugano and enjoy the snow-covered Alpine peaks through your sunglasses in the bright and warm sun. 

Pro tip: come to Switzerland in January and bypass the school winter vacations, the country’s slopes are a little less busy. 

The biggest airport in Switzerland is Zurich and thanks to a great developed railroad network, you can reach almost any place in the country from Zurich in 3 hours. 

Recommended by Linda of Hiking the Alps

15. Guatemala (perfect for a low-key January getaway)

Average temp:  high 75, low 54 Fly into:  La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City

Guatemala is a great vacation in January as it’s the peak dry season. Enjoy warm weather, great culture and amazing adventures.

It’s a budget destination, so your money will stretch further here than in nearby countries such as Costa Rica and Panama.

Top travel destinations in Guatemala include Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Antigua is a beautiful Spanish colonial city with many things to do. In fact, it’s one of the best tropical Christmas destinations in the Americas.

The #1 attraction near Antigua is climbing Acatenango Volcano and witnessing its’ neighbour, Fuego (Fire) Volcano, erupting every 30-40 minutes. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed!

A 3 hour drive from Antigua will take you to the central highlands and  Lake Atitlan . The lake is a magical place with a near-perfect mid-20s temperature (mid-70’s in Fahrenheit) all year round. Surrounded by 3 volcanoes, the views from Lake Atitlan are something special!

There are 12 towns surrounding Lake Atitlan, each offering something a little different and unique. San Pedro is a favorite for backpackers and San Marcos is a favorite for the hippy crowd. Wherever you end up visiting, travel between towns is quick and easy.

Travel between towns across the lake on little boats , known locally as Lanchas. The longest journey will be about 30 minutes and the cost less than $2.  

Free Cerveza in Santa Cruz La Laguna is an interesting place to stay. A glamping site with private eco-lodges and tee-pee style tents, there is always something going on.

Enjoy complimentary use of the facilities, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Santa Cruz is one of the best places on the lake to swim and offers fantastic views of the volcanoes in the distance.    

Go for something a little different on your next holiday, go to Guatemala!

Recommended by Wes of Walk About Wes

Average temp:  high 30, low 13 (varies by region) Fly into:  Calgary International Airport, Alberta

So many destinations in Canada turn into the most magical winter wonderland during the month of January, and are sure to cure anyone’s post-holiday blues.

One of the most exciting places to visit is the Canadian Rockies region and Banff National Park. At Lake Louise, you’ll have the chance to skate across the frozen lake with a backdrop of the snow-capped mountains.

This outdoor ice rink has even been named the world’s best by CNN ! During the month of January, the entrance to the lake is surrounded by a beautiful ice castle , which will have you feeling like you’re in a snow globe in no time.

Through most of January, Canyon Lights puts on an amazing display at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver. This bridge is one of the most scenic places to visit in Canada year-round, but when the bridge and surrounding park are aglow with thousands of twinkling lights, it’s even more amazing to experience. 

Heading over to the East Coast side of Canada, the best place to vacation in January is Old Quebec, a historic section of Quebec city. This area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and will have you feeling you’ve been transported to Europe.

Many of the picturesque streets will still have their holiday decor and lights up through most of January, and are especially magical after a snowfall. Visitors can enjoy rides down a toboggan chute, which has been operating for the last 135 years. 

To visit Banff National Park and Lake Louise, you’ll want to fly into Calgary, and from there, you’ll need to rent a car to get around. If you want to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights display, you can fly right into Vancouver, and rely on public transportation and ride share services to get around. Then to visit Old Quebec, the best airport to fly into is Quebec City Airport.

Canada offers a variety of experiences, and it’s definitely one of the best countries to visit in January.

Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust

More of the best countries to visit in January

Not even half done with the list. Do you have your January getaway picked out yet? Here’s more fabulous ideas ahead…

17. Australia

Average temp:  high 79, low 66 (varies by region) Fly into:  Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport, Sydney

One of the best countries to visit in January for sun is Australia . On the other side of the hemisphere, January is one of the warmest summer months.

Australia is an enormous country which means that temperatures can vary depending on where you go. From as warm as 89 F(32 C) degrees in Perth to as “cold” as 79 F (26 C) in Melbourne. 

Besides the sunny weather, Australia has a lot more to offer. With a 21,126 miles (34,000 KM) long coastline, you can find beautiful beaches and cliffs all around the country. This makes beach hopping and surfing 2 of the most popular things to do in the country.

Nature lovers will have no shortage of green scenery as Australia is the number one country when it comes to the most national parks worldwide (over 650). 

A good place to start your Australian vacation is Sydney. It’s home to the largest airport that has the most international flight connections. On top of that, Sydney is also just a beautiful and lively city with amazing beaches.

For outdoor lovers, its close proximity to the Blue Mountains National Park is perfect . And wine lovers will enjoy a day trip to the Hunter Valley to try some Australian wine and bring home a unique  Australian souvenir . 

For solo travelers, The Wake-Up Bondi hostel is a great place to stay. If you’re looking for a hotel, the Travelodge Hotel Sydney Martin Place is a good option too. 

Recommended by Lara of The Best Travel Gifts

Average temp:  high 75, low 59 Fly into:  Dubai International Airport, Dubai / Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi

If you’re looking to soak in the warm winter sun, then the UAE makes for an amazing destination. This Middle Eastern country is home to 7 Emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the most popular ones.

Both these glamorous Emirates have their own international airport and an array of hotels to choose from. From ultra-luxurious to boutique properties, from business hotels to glamping sites and from desert retreats to oceanfront suites, the accommodation offer is downright dazzling.

With daytime temperatures averaging 24°C or 75°F and nighttime temperatures averaging 15°C or 59°F, January is an excellent month to spend your vacation days outdoors without suffering from the scorching heat that affects the UAE most of the year .

You could choose to spend your days relaxing at a soft white sand beach, admire the view from the observation deck at the world’s tallest building, take an  adventurous desert safari from Dubai , soak up the atmosphere of the souks, visit the mesmerizing Abu Dhabi mosque , cruise the Arabian Gulf by speedboat, kayak through the mangroves or zipline between the most spectacular mountainscapes.

And fashionistas will certainly appreciate the Dubai Shopping Festival that takes place in January. So, when an action-packed winter vacation with a touch of glamour is what you’re looking for, then the UAE will not disappoint!

The UAE is one of the best places to visit in January for sun and adventure!

Recommended by Sarah of CosmopoliClan

19. Portugal

Average temp:  high 59, low 47 (varies by region) Fly into:  Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, Porto

Portugal is a charming winter destination and is one of the top warm European places to visit in January. Portugal’s temperate climate is perfect for a wonderful vacation across the country.

Start your Portuguese adventure with the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto. It’s a city famous for its association with port wine.

From boat trips on the Douro River to discovering hidden architectural gems, there are plenty of  places to visit in Porto . The old Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Rumoured to be the inspiration behind the Harry Potter books, Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and one of the must-visit attractions in Porto.

Next, climb the Clerigos Tower for a stunning view over the city skyline. No visit to Porto is complete without taking a tour of its famous port wine cellars. You’ll find many of them in Gaia, on the other side of the Douro River.

Finally, head down to Matosinhos beach and Foz do Douro promenade for a day out by the beach. The closest airport to the city is the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, which is well-connected to the city by public transport.

You can also add the vibrant capital city of Lisbon to your holiday itinerary. Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest cities, having received more days of sunshine than any other European capital.

When visiting Lisbon, be sure to check out the best things to do in Almada , too. You’ll love visiting Portugal. It’s deserving of a spot on this list of best places to visit in January (Europe).

Recommended by Moumita & Sankha of Chasing the Long Road

20. USA (so many can’t miss destinations for a vacation in January)

Average temp:  high 68, low 46 (in the southern region – varies greatly throughout) Fly into:  Denver International Airport, Denver / Kahului Airport, Maui / Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan

Similar to Canada, Mexico and Australia, the USA has a variety of climates and destinations perfect for January. And although it’s impossible to choose just one, these popular January destinations in the USA are all great for wintertime travel.

Vail or Breckenridge , Colorado offer some of the best ski resorts in the world! If you’re looking for a perfect winter getaway with fluffy white snow, consider the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Hawaii is an obvious choice if you’re looking for warm vacations in January in the US, since it’s average high temperatures hover around 80 degrees throughout the islands.

Watch the sunset on Haleakala in Maui , take a helicopter ride over the NaPali Coast in Kauai, visit the impressive Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, or hike to the top of Diamond Head to overlook Waikiki Beach in Oahu. Hawaii is full of adventure!

Another hot spot for a best place to vacation in January is Puerto Rico . There’s so many things to do in Old San Juan , including visiting the 500+ year old fort, El Morro. And if you’re looking for a perfect beach, head to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico on the nearby island of Culebra.

Without a doubt, the USA offers some spectacular January getaways!

21. El Salvador

Average temp:  high 85, low 64 Fly into:  San Salvador Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport, San Luis Talpa

El Salvador is an underrated destination in Central America, and one of the best countries to visit in January. A great spot to visit in El Salvador is the town of El Tunco.

Located on the Pacific coast, El Tunco, El Salvador , is a great getaway in the middle of winter. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging in the high 80s. January is one of the best times to visit El Tunco because it’s the middle of the dry season, so the chance of a downpour is minimal.

The best things to see and do in El Tunco involve enjoying its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming and surfing. You can also sunbathe but some of the beach areas are a bit pebbly, especially right after high tide.

If you want a chill vibe, you can take some yoga classes and relax in a beach hammock. Or if you’re up for some adventure, you can explore the beach caves (low tide only) or go waterfall hiking.

There are also a number of restaurants and bars in the town. The best thing to eat in El Tunco is pupusas, the national food of El Salvador! These thick corn tortillas are filled with meat, cheese, and/or beans.

If you want to party 24/7, there are a number of party-focused hostels in town. If you want to get a good night’s sleep after going out but still be close to the action, stay at Eco del Mar Hotel .

El Tunco is easy to get to from the San Salvador airport. It’s just a short drive to the coast on well-paved highways. You can hire a driver in advance, rent a car, or just call an Uber at the airport.

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable vacation destination in January, El Tunco is definitely worth considering.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

Average temp:  high 39, low 28 Fly into:  Nikola Tesla International Airport, Belgrade

Serbia is the best place to vacation in January if you love Christmas and lengthened holiday seasons. As a country with Christian Orthodox as its major population, Serbia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. And on top of that, in addition to the New Year on January 1st, they also celebrate Serbian New Year based on the Julian calendar on the 15th. 

The best way to visit Serbia is to fly to Nikola Tesla International Airport in Belgrade, or you can easily travel by car from  the neighboring countries in Balkan . 

Serbia is quite small, so you can easily travel from the north to the south of the country for a week or two. Depending on the location, there are many things to do in Serbia in January. From enjoying the nightlife scene in Belgrade to spending your winter wonderland in popular ski resorts like Zlatibor or Kopaonik, there is always something for everyone!

For accommodation, you can easily find budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in each city. If you have a little extra budget for your accommodation, take a chance to stay at the Moskva Hotel in the heart of Belgrade. One of the most important landmarks in Serbia, the hotel has become a cultural heritage in the capital city since 1968. 

Recommended by Marya of The BeauTraveler

23. Philippines

Average temp:   high 86, low 74 Fly into:  El Nido Lio Airport, Palawan / Puerto Princesa International Airport, Puerto Princesa

With the dry season in full swing, the Philippines is one of the best places to visit in January for sun . You can expect the weather to be hot and humid, yet there will always be a beach nearby when you feel the need to cool off.

One of the best places to visit is the island of Palawan, which has been voted to be “the most beautiful island in the world” multiple times by Travel + Leisure’s Best of Awards . 

Once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. In the northern part of the Palawan near El Nido you’ll find beautiful islands, turquoise-blue lagoons, and jagged limestone cliffs. Thus, island hopping is one of  the best things to do in Palawan !

If you don’t want to take the detour through Puerto Princesa – the capital of Palawan – you can fly to El Nido directly via Airswift from Manila. Some of the best places to stay in El Nido are Frendz Hostel and Blue Mango . 

If you’re adventurous, you can also venture out to other places on the island, like San Vicente and Port Barton. San Vicente is known for its 14-kilometer-long beach, whereas Port Barton is a small, laid-back town attracting travelers from all over the world. From here, you can hike through the jungle to get to low-key beaches and even a picturesque waterfall, kayak around the bay, or go snorkeling for sea turtles.  

As you can see, no matter where you go in Palawan, you can’t go wrong! You’ll have a wonderful vacation, perfect for a January getaway!

Recommended by Lena of Not Another Backpacker

24. Jamaica (another favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 74 Fly into:  Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

One of the best beach vacations in January is Jamaica. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea, the hurricane season is over and the rush of holiday travelers is gone. However, January is one of the busiest months for visitors to the island, as many are trying to escape the winter back home.

Relax and rest in luxury at an all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Negril or Ocho Rios. From family friendly options to adults-only resorts, there’s something for everyone. Although, make sure to save up for it in advance, as January has some of the highest prices.

Venture off the resort on a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls, ziplining, bamboo rafting, take a sunset cruise or Blue Hole, Negril , amongst many others.

Or, rent a car and explore for yourself. Just be sure to ask your hotel which nearby areas to avoid, as there is some gang crime in Jamaica. And definitely get back before dark.

By the way, Jamaica is a great stop on some of the best young adult cruises , since it’s a destination with so much action and culture.

Whether you’re looking to sit on the beach for a week or soak in the amazing Jamaican food and culture, you’ll love a trip to this tropical paradise!

25. Morocco

Average temp:  high 66, low 45 Fly into:  Marrakesh Menara Airport, Marrakesh

January might just be the best time of year for a trip to Morocco. Avoid the hot sticky summer, avoid the busy season and make the most of the moderate temperatures in Morocco during winter. 

Marrakech, Essaouira and the Sahara Desert are just some of the destinations you’ll want to add to your Morocco itinerary.  

The beautiful chaos synonymous with Morocco is found right in the heart of the medinas of Marrakech.  And you can start your journey here with a flight into Marrakech Menara Airport.

Book the Riad Tizwa in Marrakech for a stay to remember, wander Jemaa el-Fna Square in the early evening, shop in the labyrinth of souks and stroll through the Jardin Majorelle. And be sure to dine at all the best restaurants in Marrakech while you’re in town.

But don’t forget to see what else Morocco has to offer in winter. Marrakech is the perfect base to arrange a Sahara Desert tour or a beach adventure to Essaouira. 

Book a visit to Merzouga or M’hamid, to see the rolling sand dunes of the Sahara. And on your way include a visit to Ouarzazate to admire the incredible kasbahs of this region.  The Kasbah Aït Benhaddou is possibly the most magnificent, made famous by the many movies filmed here.  

And finally, don’t miss a couple of days stay in Essaouira to finish your Moroccan adventure. This beach destination is a great little medina town that impresses all.  Book a beautiful riad  for a true Moroccan experience, ride horses on the beach, walk the ramparts and book a surf.  

Morocco vacation in January is always a good idea! 

Recommended by Sharon of My Free Range Family

Best countries to visit in January – continued

In the final stretch of this epic list! A few more fun cities and some of the best beach vacations in January yet, let’s wrap up this list with a bang!💥

Average temp:  high 33, low 26 Fly into:  Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Stockholm-Arlanda

If you’re looking for a vacation in January, then the beautiful country of Sweden is a fantastic option! With spectacular cities, unspoiled forests, and breathtaking lakes, it’s no surprise that over 7.5 million people visit every year. 

Sweden will take your breath away no matter what time of year you visit, but there’s something special about visiting in January! 

During this time of year, the ground is often covered in snow and temperatures will be well below freezing, although that’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a hot chocolate and a Fika!

Sweden is one of the best places to visit in January to extend that ‘festive feeling’ as many of the winter palaces might still be running, especially earlier in the month. 

Sweden’s largest airport is Stockholm Arlanda which is just 39 km (24 miles) from the capital city. This often means Stockholm is the first port of call, and you’ll find tons of fascinating things to do here – especially in January! 

First of all, you’ll have plenty of ice skating opportunities but the main spot to visit is Kungsträdgården ! Then, you can head to Hammarbybacken if you’re looking to ski or head out on a winter cruise of the archipelago! 

If you’re staying in the capital, there’s no shortage of accommodation options but one of the best hotels in the city is Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel .

Other fantastic places to visit in Sweden during January include Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park, Gothenburg, and Salen. 

Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling through Sweden during this time of year, you’ll need plenty of layers . You’ll also want to indulge in a warm drink at every opportunity and fill your belly with delicious Swedish meatballs!

Recommended by Jack & Abbie of A Couples Calling

27. Grenada (another awesome contender for best place to vacation in January)

Average temp:  high 86, low 74 Fly into:  Maurice Bishop International Airport, Grenada

The island of Grenada in the Caribbean is one of the best islands to visit in January. Located at the southern end of the chain of Caribbean islands, Grenada is still rooted deeply in culture and nature to experience, without a whole lot of big chain influences.

January is an amazing time to visit, as the temperature is roughly 86 degrees year round during the day, and the water stays nice and warm too! It’s the perfect getaway from the winter cold to enjoy warm water, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, a tropical climate and Caribbean culture.

The easiest way to get to Grenada is by flying into Maurice Bishop International Airport. Once you arrive, you can either grab a taxi (they look like small buses) or make your way to a shuttle if your accommodation offers transportation.

There’s a huge range of accommodation options, including many homestay options, more casual resorts, all the way to luxury all inclusives. My recommendation for an eco-friendly boutique hotel is the True Blue Bay Resort , while if you’re looking for something all inclusive, Spice Island Beach Resort .

January does fall within Grenada’s high season, so be prepared for more crowds than if you went during the rainy season (summer months).

Definitely visit one of Grenada’s Best Beaches while there, and try to take an island wide guided tour to experience waterfalls, sulphur springs, cocoa farms, local distilleries or more! Plus, the world-famous underwater attraction, snorkeling the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park is a must-do while visiting the island.

You’ll want to stay in Grenada at least a week to experience all there is to see and do! Grenada is one of the best countries to visit in January. It’s an amazing destination with the welcoming and vibrant Caribbean culture that you don’t want to miss!

Recommended by Taylor of Tea N’ Sea Travel

28. South Africa

Average temp:  high 83, low 63 Fly into:  Cape Town International Airport, Cape Town

South Africa is one of the best countries in the world for a January vacation. It’s the ideal spot to take a breath and enjoy life.

January in South Africa sees the weather at its best, particularly in the western regions. Summer below the equator is in full swing, and the air is warm and dry.

However you dream of spending your time, this sizable country is teeming with great adventures and awe-inspiring beauty just for you!  Come to South Africa to see the iconic wildlife, enjoy the most picturesque road trips of your life, or explore its astounding urban highlights. 

Or try a shark-cage dive off the coast! Whichever activity you choose, your options are countless. 

If this abundance of activities doesn’t earn South Africa a vote for the best countries to visit in January, maybe this will: all of these remarkable activities are accessible from the spectacular city of Cape Town. It’s the ultimate base for your South African vacation.

January in Cape Town provides you with the opportunity to attend the Kaapse Klopse . This colorful January 2nd street festival will give you stories to tell! You can also visit famous local treasures such as Table Mountain, the V & A Waterfront, and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, right in Cape Town . 

The Cape Town International Airport is just 20 km from the city centre, and services airlines that connect with all parts of the world. 

Finding the best home away from home for you is as easy as amazing vacation rental options. How does a seaview apartment or a country cottage sound? It’s all waiting for you!

Recommended by DJ of Introvert with Itchy Feet

29. England

Average temp:  high 45, low 35 (varies by region) Fly into:  London Heathrow Airport, London

England  is an underrated country to visit in January. It’s the perfect mix of winter wonderland and mild temperatures, depending on where you visit.

For example, Oxford and Birmingham typically see dustings of snow throughout January. You may even find enough snow a few days a year to build a small snowman!

But places like Brighton Beach will remain snow-less. There are even days London will be as sunny as in summer!

The mild temperatures attract visitors who are looking to escape the freezing cold of Canada or Scandinavia, but don’t want to pay the inflated prices of a beach vacation. Temperatures average 5C (41F).

Don’t forget to pack a light coat and some waterproof boots , as it can drizzle throughout January.

Luckily, the best things to do in the UK aren’t summer-based.

Having high tea in Covent Garden, touring Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford upon Avon, listening to live music at a pub, and enjoying British stand-up at local comedy houses are all great indoor activities to take advantage of.

There are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying everything the country has to offer. For starters, take advantage of the many free museums and galleries.

You can also find cheap eats by avoiding tourist traps and sticking to local pubs. And finally, take advantage of the many cheap or free walking tours available in most cities.

The UK is easily accessible from anywhere in the world.

Major airports include London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Stanstead is another option, but then you’ll need to take a long train journey. 

To get around, take trains for cheap day trips from London to places like Bath and Oxford.

Recommended by Nina of Nina Out and About

30. India (an underrated one on this guide for warm vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 60 (varies by region) Fly into:  Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi / Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, Bengaluru

While India may be on your travel bucket list , January is also a great time to cross it off!

January in India means it’s dry season, so you don’t need to worry about rain like you do during monsoon season. While India is a large country, narrowing down what you want to see and do will help determine what weather you’ll face and where to fly into .

The northern part of India is home to the famous Taj Mahal. Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal can be visited via day trip from Delhi. One of the new 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal’s grand and impressive architecture is stunning in real life!

In southern India, the popular towns of Bengaluru (aka Bangalore) is a busy city with so many things to do. Bangalore is famous for the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the Bengaluru Palace, Bull Temple and Cuban Park. Nearby Mysuru (aka Mysore) is a great day trip or weekend getaway from Bangalore. Be sure to watch the lighting of the Mysore Palace – stunning!

If you’re looking for a beach destination in India, Goa is the place to be. With gentle waves, swaying palm trees and beautiful, relaxing hotels, Goa is a great spot to relax and unwind in India. It’s truly a great destination, and one of the best countries to visit in January.

31. The Gambia

Average temp:  high 91, low 65 Fly into:  Banjul International Airport, Banjul

Perched on the west coast of Africa is a small but charming country known as The Gambia. The Gambia is renowned for its lengthy swathes of golden sand beaches, freshly caught fish and smiling locals.

The Gambia has 2 distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The dry season runs from November to May and is the best time to visit. The temperature at this time of year is pleasant – roughly 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) – and you can expect bright sunshine on most days.

January is also a great time of year to visit due to the country’s annual Banjul Demba Cultural Festival. Here, you’ll witness traditional music and dance performances in the country’s capital city.

The Gambia is a very small country and so only houses one international airport: Banjul International Airport.

Most visitors to The Gambia choose to base themselves in Serrekunda, a vibrant town set behind a glorious stretch of beach, fringed by lazy palm trees.

Serrekunda is a mere 30 minute drive from the airport. It’s easy to grab a taxi from the airport, or you can pre-arrange a taxi with your hotel or via a taxi company beforehand.

Alternatively, you can hire a car in The Gambia . I’d personally recommend pre-booking a taxi from a reputable company as some taxis at the airport are in questionable condition.

There are numerous hotels in Serrekunda for you to choose from but a personal favourite of mine is Luigi’s Complex. It has a very friendly and laid-back vibe and is only a short walk from the beach.

Recommended by Ella of Ella McKendrick

32. New Zealand (by far one of the best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 77, low 53 (varies by region) Fly into:  Auckland International Airport, Auckland

A bucket-list destination for many, New Zealand is at the top of its game in January. This summer month brings some of the warmest temperatures in the country, delighting visitors that enjoy sunny days at the beach.

New Zealand is a surprisingly large country – a fact that many people underestimate when planning a vacation. The amount of time you have will affect the places you are able to visit, however, these are some amazing summer spots in Aotearoa.

If you’re able to include them in your itinerary, you’ll be sure to come away happy. After all, New Zealand is one of the best countries to visit in January!

Paihia is located in the Bay of Islands, and though it is beautiful at any time of year, it’s particularly vibrant during the summer season. Known for its stunning beaches, uninhabited islands, settled weather and marine life, this is a must-see in January. Kerikeri is the closest airport to Paihia, but many choose to fly into Auckland and drive up.

Moving down the North Island, the Coromandel Peninsula is another summer-time favourite for locals and visitors alike . Significant highlights include Hot Water Beach (where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand), Cathedral Cove and New Chums Beach, all of which are best enjoyed in the warmth of the summer season. Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga airports all service this region.

Finally, a summertime trip to Fiordland should be on your radar. Though this area experiences a lot of rain right throughout the year, this will be your best chance at seeing it on a nice day.

When the weather is still, the mirror reflection of  Milford Sound on the water really is incomparable. Queenstown is the closest airport to Milford Sound, though many choose to stay in Te Anau.

Haere mai and welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Recommended by Sarah of New Zealand Travel Tips

Average temp:  high 60, low 49 Fly into:  Malta International Airport, Malta

One of the best places to visit in January for sun is the European island of Malta . Actually, Malta is made up of 3 islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

Compared to other European countries,  Malta in winter  is usually very sunny and in January temperatures can go up to 20 degrees Celsius which on a sunny day feels very pleasant.

One of the best things about going in January is that fewer tourists venture to the island which is mainly considered a summer destination. But what most people fail to realize is that it is the best time for going hiking and exploring the ancient towns.

Malta has a long history, and if you get rainy or windy days it’s perfect to explore underground where you can walk through the World War Two Shelters or discover the old catacombs in Rabat. On the other hand, if the weather is nice, you can easily go for a quick dip in the crystal-clear water.

There are numerous flights connecting Malta with the rest of Europe. In addition, you can take the boat directly from Sicily in Italy.

Getting around Malta by bus is easy, it costs 1.50 Euros for a ticket that lasts you for 2 hours (including bus changes.) On top of that, they have tap and pay so there is no need for cash.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

34. Turks and Caicos (another favorite on this list for best beach vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 82, low 74 Fly into:  Providenciales International Airport, Turks & Caicos Islands

Last but certainly not least is the dreamy island chain of Turks and Caicos. Definitely worthy of a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January, Turks and Caicos has unbelievable white sand beaches with the most turquoise water you’ll ever see.

A beach destination with the right mix of good food and water activities, Turks and Caicos is a laid-back island chain where the term ‘island time’ could have been created.

The whimsical nature of the island is perfect for a January getaway when all that matters is what time you should re-apply your sunblock . (By the way, be sure to use ocean-safe sunblock at all times to protect marine life.)

Staying on the main island of Providenciales doesn’t have to break the bank, either. It’s possible to do Turks and Caicos on a budget , without sacrificing a good time on the island chain.

While there, be sure to visit the best beaches on Turks and Caicos . Grace Bay Beach is the most popular, but moving away from the busy tourist spot will provide you with amazing views where you *might* just be the only one there.

Enjoy a dreamy island vacation in Turks and Caicos!

Whew! What a list! From the best beach vacations in January to frozen winter wonderlands, this was a fun guide to put together. So….are you ready to book your flights yet?

Let’s review that list one more time, in a more succinct fashion….

Best places to vacation in January

• Switzerland
• El Salvador
• Philippines
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Turks and Caicos

Related content to read next: 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations USA (Say Goodbye to the Cold) 30 Best Countries to Visit in February (Fun Spots You Haven’t Thought Of) 35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Destinations You Need to See 28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See 32 Awe-Inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

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Saturday 3rd of September 2022

Fabulous post Nikki! It just shows how many fantastic places there are for holidays in January. When I was younger I would have been tempted by the tropical islands... but now I have learned to ski, places like Austria and Switzerland for would be the best part - those snowy mountain views are beeeautiful!

Tuesday 6th of September 2022

Aw I love your comment, Josy! So glad you'd do a Switzerland or Austria getaway. Both looks so stunning in wintertime!

What a fantastic list! I’m lucky to live in one of the places but I’ll keep this lost for sure for winter holidays!

Ah yes Marga, I agree you're very fortunate! Glad you found some inspiration for new destination ideas, though!

Chelsea Messina

This is such a great list of places to visit in January! I have been dying to visit Costa Rica, but I live in Michigan. So I'll be ready for the Maldives by then!

Ha love it! Either of those places sound perfect during a winter in Michigan!

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These unique UK experiences should be on your bucket list

From the Jacobite Steam Train to Tresco Abbey Garden, these are the most extraordinary experiences the UK has to offer

You might take a ride on the world's only rotating boat lift, journey back to the golden age of rail travel with a journey on the train used in the Harry Potter films, or lose yourself in an exotic garden blooming with perennial life.

From the Scottish Highlands to the Isles of Scilly via the Norfolk Broads, the UK is full of unique experiences that you won't forget anytime soon – read on for our edit of the very best ones to tick off your bucket list.

Be wowed by Tresco Abbey Garden

From towering palms to miniature succulents, all surrounded by masses of Geranium, spires of Echium, the flaming shock of Strelitzia and countless other tangles of flowers and plant life, Tresco Abbey Garden is the most glorious sensory overload. Located on the island of Tresco in the Isles of Scilly , this sub-tropical garden was established by Augustus Smith in the 19th century around the ruins of a Benedictine Abbey, which can still be seen today.

Home to plants from across the world, this unique UK experience is a treat at any time of year, from blooming spring to the kaleidoscopic burnt colours of autumn – there are even plenty of plants in flower at the winter solstice.

You can experience Tresco Abbey Garden on Country Living 's six-day Isles of Scilly tour with wildlife expert Julian Branscombe. You'll also explore the islands of Bryher and St Martin's .

Ride on the incredible Jacobite Steam Train

Harry Potter fans will rejoice at the chance to ride the train used as the Hogwarts Express in the film franchise, but all will find pleasure in this unique experience. Rightfully considered one of the best train journeys in the world , the iconic steam train's 84-mile takes you around part of the West Highland line in Scotland.

Beginning near the highest mountain in Britain, Ben Nevis, and arriving next to the deepest seawater loch in Europe, Loch Nevis, the route is impossibly scenic. A highlight for all is crossing the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct, which overlooks Loch Shiel.

You can ride the Jacobite Steam Train on Country Living 's four-day Scottish Highlands tour , which includes a guest appearance from Carol Kirkwood and a Loch Katrine cruise.

FIND OUT MORE

See amazing engineering at Neptune’s Staircase

At the foot of mighty Ben Nevis in the pretty Scottish village of Banavie, you'll find the ever-impressive Neptune's Staircase on the Caledonian Canal . This is a dramatic flight of eight locks stretches over a quarter of a mile, raising the canal by 19m and taking around 90 minutes for a boat to travel up or down.

Built between 1803 and 1822, this incredible feat of engineering remains the longest staircase lock in Scotland. Conceived by Thomas Telford and nicknamed after the Roman god of the sea by the men who built it, it was originally hand-powered but has now been converted to a hydraulic system.

You can see Neptune's Staircase on Country Living 's seven-day tour of the Scottish Highlands . Plus, you'll explore the Sound of Mull, Oban, Iona and more from the comfort of a boutique cruise ship.

Visit an inn with its own observatory

Looking up to the starry skies is always a pleasure, but doing it from a rural inn with its very own dark skies observatory? Now that's an experience you won't forget in a hurry. Located close to Hadrian's Wall, the Twice Brewed Inn is a popular country pub and bed & breakfast in the heart of Northumberland , where you can get cosy with a pint, eat delicious food – and enjoy stargazing under dark skies .

Situated within the protected Dark Sky park, this observatory benefits from minimal light pollution, meaning you'll get an incredibly clear view of the Milky Way and see thousands more stars than can be spotted from more densely populated areas.

You can stay at the Twice Brewed Inn and experience its observatory, as well as a visit to Kielder Observatory with astronomer Richard Darn on Country Living 's three-day Northumberland astronomy tour .

Go gin tasting at the UK's most beautiful distillery

If you love a crisp G&T at the end of a busy day, you'll definitely want to check out Bombay Sapphire 's incredible distillery. Located in a historic red-brick mill in Whitchurch, Hampshire, near Basingstoke and Winchester , this wonderful spot offers a host of experiences from tours to tastings, all of which make for a great grown-up day out.

You can discover the care, skill and artistry that goes into every bottle of Bombay here. What's more, you'll get to try the results for yourself.

BOOK A TOUR

Journey back to the 1920s on a luxurious UK train

It may all be delays and overcrowding these days, but there's still a chance to recapture the golden age of rail travel right here in the UK. Simply hop aboard the British Pullman, A Belmond Train , formed of the most glamorous restored 1920s carriages that are full of vintage lighting and heritage upholstery.

The perfect spoiling day out, a trip on this glorious train might include classic afternoon tea or an indulgent lunch. You can even take part in an exciting Murder Mystery trip, sleuthing your way through a fabulous cast of characters. Whatever you opt for, remember to dress to impress.

Country Living has an exclusive trip to Highclere Castle on the British Pullman , with an exclusive talk with Lady Carnarvon.

Ride on the world's only rotating boat lift

A true marvel of engineering that also makes for a unique UK experience, Scotland 's Falkirk Wheel is the world's one and only rotating boat lift. In a half turn that lasts five minutes, it connects the Forth & Clyde Canal with the Union Canal.

It's impressive enough simply to behold the wheel, but you'll probably want to experience it first hand as well. Engineering buffs can take a behind the scenes tour before soaring 35 metres in to the air as the lift moves.

You can experience the Falkirk Wheel on Country Living 's four-day Scottish Highlands tour with TV's Carol Kirkwood, which includes a journey on the Jacobite Steam Train.

Sail along on a paddle boat

If a river cruise in a double-deck paddle boat sounds like you're idea of fun, it might be time to head to the Norfolk Broads. Here, you can discover the charm of the Southern Comfort Mississippi Paddle Boat, which was purpose built for the Broads. The luxurious river cruiser makes regular trips from the pretty Norfolk village of Horning along the River Bure out to Ranworth Broad and back.

You'll pass traditional thatched houses, windmills and Norfolk reed beds that are filled with wildlife. These will all be pointed out with the excellent commentary on board, so you won't miss a trick.

You can ride the Southern Comfort Mississippi Paddle Boat on Country Living 's five-day Norfolk and Sandringham tour , with historian Lucy Worsley joining the trip.

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• Travel inspiration
• Best places to go in January for sun - infographic

Where to go in January for sun

Kirsten Henton

Start your new year strong with a warming winter sun escape in January . If this sounds like your kind of resolution, let us help you decide where to go with our bespoke pick of the top 10 destinations for every interest.

From richly-scented city breaks in fascinating and historic urban centres to sun-drenched coastlines with swimming pools, sun loungers and all the cocktails you could wish for, our eclectic list of places to go in January is sure to please.

Take your pick from our selection of the top 10 destinations for winter sun in January based on different interests, distances and types of weather.

Top 10 sunny holiday destinations in January

• Goa , India
• Phuket , Thailand
• Kerala , India
• Fuerteventura , Canary Islands, Spain
• Cape Town , South Africa
• Marrakech , Morocco

Download the top 10 >>

Sunny holiday destinations by month

Check out our top 10 sunny holiday destinations for each month of the year. Whether you're looking for summer breaks or winter sun escapes, we'll show you where to get the best weather, expected flight time and what each destination is most well-known for.

Looking for more? Check out our complete guide to the weather in January and see where we recommend that has the best weather for a holiday .

Kirsten Henton is Weather2Travel.com's editor. Kirsten writes, commissions and edits our travel features, liaising with our contributors and ensuring copy is spick-and-span. A member of the British Guild of Travel Writers, Kirsten also freelances writing articles on travel, history and the outdoors for titles such as Scotland Magazine and BBC Travel.

Article updated on Saturday 20th January 2024 in: Africa Asia Caribbean Europe Season Winter sun

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The best places to visit in January 2024

Nov 17, 2023 • 5 min read

The Canary Islands are one of the many places worth visiting in January ©Jose A. Bernat Bacete/Getty Images

Do you know when you want to travel but just can’t decide where? We’re here to break down the best places to go in each month of the year so you can find the perfect travel experience for you. 

As we look forward to 2024, 366 days of epic adventures, cultural experiences, foodie forays and wondrous wildlife encounters stretch out before us. But it can be hard to know exactly where to kickstart the year of travel. 

Whether you’re looking for inspiration or information, Lonely Planet has done the legwork for you, answering the travelers' perennial question: where to go when ? If you want to start the year right, these are some of the top passport-fillers for January to inspire your travels or add to your bucket list. 

Where are the best places to visit in January for wildlife and nature?

Why now? Bask in near permanent daylight in this enormous white wilderness at the end of the world.

At the end of the world in Antarctica temperatures "soar" to freezing point (or a little above) and near-permanent daylight means endless, warm days (well, it’s all relative) for catching sight of the sprawling penguin colonies with their newly-hatched chicks, seal pups and whales as well as sailing between gargantuan icebergs. 

Why now? Track the world’s biggest primates in the dry(ish) season.

Perhaps a thousand or so endangered mountain gorillas survive worldwide, of which nearly half roam the dense forests of Uganda ’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park . It’s an experience you’ll need to earn, tackling steep, muddy trails at altitudes up to 3000m (9483ft). But if you snag one of the limited permits available for each of the park’s 19 habituated families, the rewards are luminous. 

Chūbu, Japan

Why now? Discover a winter wonderland of steaming hot springs, traditional villages and snow sports.

Winter’s a magical time to explore the historic settlements of Japan 's central Honshu region, when snow dusts temples, castles and traditional wooden houses. Outside of the ski resorts, crowds thin after the late-December holidays and before cherry-blossom season. In the Japanese Alps, “snow monkeys” (Japanese macaques) soak in hot springs near Yudanaka. 

Where are the best places to visit in January for food and culture?

Sydney, Australia

Why now: For endless cultural experiences in the heat of the summer. 

For an alternative to the seasonal celebrations, head to Australia’s largest city for the Sydney Festival, an eclectic three-week showcase of burlesque acts, circus and dance performances, art installations and family activities. 

Liguria, Italy

Why now? Tramp snowy paths and munch fabulous food in the quietest season.

In winter in the Ligurian Alps, wonderfully crisp air and snowy forest trails lure snowshoers to Aveto and Antola natural regional parks and yet-more-rugged Beigua Geopark, where snowshoe hire is available and marked circular trails offer sea views. All are within touching distance of regional capital Genoa , deliciously quiet in January yet as tasty as ever with regional delicacies. 

Austin, Texas, USA

Why now? Forage and feast from food trucks in the mild Texas January.

Long famed for its barbecue and Tex-Mex, today there’s a world of cuisines to discover in Austin , from American regional classics – Philly cheesesteaks, Cajun jambalaya, fried chicken – to dishes from all corners of the globe: pick up West African jollof rice, Syrian shawarma, Venezuelan arepas, and Thai Tom Kha soup. Mild January, when temperatures hover at around 15°C (59°F), brings fine weather for alfresco eating. 

Where are the best places to visit in January for adventure?

Canary Islands

Why now? Escape the winter with a European island break. 

Escape the Northern Hemisphere’s winter climes with a surf break under the sunny skies of the Canary Islands . Kitesurfers and windsurfers are also spoilt for wave-riding hotspots; and land-lovers can simply kick back on the golden shores or hike or cycle one of the region's otherworldly volcanic landscapes.

Arizona and Utah, USA

Why now? Snap snow-dusted canyons, buttes and mesas free from crowds.

The red-rock ravines and outcrops of the region straddling the Utah and Arizona borders look even more delectable with a topping of snow – and in January you’ll share these wonders with far fewer people. Make no mistake, you’ll need to wrap up warm: temperatures dip well below freezing. But don the right clothes and boots (better still, snowshoes), and you’ll discover dramatic landscapes made even more magical in the absence of crowds.

South Island, New Zealand

Why now? To take an epic summer road trip in January. 

Over in New Zealand , lap up some breathtaking scenery on a road trip through some of the South Island ’s most iconic coastal landscapes. The long summer days will give you plenty of time to explore. 

Where are the best places to visit in January for relaxation?

Budapest, Hungary 

Why now? To dip into warm waters to escape the European chill. 

When the climate turns cold in the Northern Hemisphere, Budapest ’s hot springs and thermal baths are a great way to escape the chill and give yourself some much needed TLC in one fell swoop.

Why now? Chill in a quieter corner of the Caribbean.

Few travelers heading to the Caribbean find their way to long, skinny little Anguilla , which remains determinedly low-key and relatively undeveloped. But it boasts all the ingredients of the Caribbean dream: friendly folk, an uplifting reggae soundtrack and some of the region’s most beautiful palm-fringed beaches, notably lively Shoal Bay on the north coast and sleepier Rendezvous Bay in the south. 

Kerala, India

Why now? Find your inner glow on a winter sun and yoga break in “God’s own country.”

Over the past couple of decades, the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam have morphed from the peaceful preserves of fishermen and Hindu devotees into backpacker hangouts and on into full blown resorts studded with exclusive hotels. But with serene stretches of sand still to be found here and there in Kerala , you can take your pick of the trance parties, hot hotels and restful homestays and yoga retreats. 

Southern Thailand

Why now? Find peaceful beaches and superb snorkeling and diving in the dry season.

Phuket, Krabi and Ko Phi-Phi have long been popular sun-sea-sand destinations, particularly during the European winter. Head further south, though, to find lesser-known corners. The Trang Islands – Ko Kradan and craggy Ko Muk – have escaped large-scale development, despite their gleaming beaches, pellucid waters and the latter’s beautiful Tham Morakot (Emerald Cave). Keep going to Tarutao National Marine Park, an archipelago of 51 islands just north of the Malay border. 

This article was first published Nov 1, 2019 and updated Nov 17, 2023.

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Captivating Images of the UK’s Most Historic Places

The high rise city-state landscape of Singapore lies between Malaysia and Indonesia just one degree north of the equator. It experiences a tropical/equatorial climate meaning consistent temperatures all year round, high levels of humidity, and plenty of rainfall.

January is Singapore's coolest month, although you will have to battle with the 30.5 °C heat in combination with humidity levels that average at 85 %.

There are two main monsoon seasons in Singapore, and January lies in the Northeast Monsoon Season which has both wet and dry phases. January lies in the former phase, with continuous heavy rainfall in the afternoons and early evenings averaging a total of 246 mm for the month.

• Read more about the weather in Singapore

Temperature in Cancun in January

• Cancun's average temperature in January is 30.5 °C

Cancun is located on the south-east coast of Mexico and is one of the most popular holiday destinations with its year-round tropical climate.

The sea is pleasantly warm which, along with the temperature at a daily maximum of 30.5 °C, make it the perfect time of the year to escape and relax on the beach.

Rainfall is minimal during the Mexican summer with January being one of the drier months, although with an average of 40 mm total rainfall you should expect some showers during your holiday.

• Read more about the weather in Cancun

Temperature in Manaus in January

• Manaus' average temperature in January is 30 °C

Situated on the banks of the Negro River in northern Brazil is Manaus, a port city and the capital of the state of Amazonas.

The temperature in Manaus is constant throughout the year with January being one of its mildest months having average daily maximums of 30 °C. Humidity starts at a high point in the year at 86 % and with this, you can expect just four hours of daily sunshine.

The tropical monsoon climate means that you can expect a lot of rainfall. This, along with its location at the centre of exploration into the Amazon rainforest, is a clear indicator of the 260 mm of average rainfall totals across January.

• Read more about the weather in Manaus

Temperature in Barbados in January

• Barbados' average temperature in January is 29.1 °C

The exotic island of Barbados is an independent territory located in the eastern Caribbean.

With average daily maximums of 29.1 °C, you can enjoy the white sandy beaches and luxury resorts with the sun shining for nine hours each day. The trade winds blowing at an average wind speed of 11.8 mph cool down the air so that the temperature is not unbearable.

Sea temperatures are also very warm, meaning you can indulge in all kinds of water sports including scuba diving and snorkelling.

January is one of the drier months in Barbados with only 82 mm average rainfall.

• Read more about the weather in Barbados

Temperature in Rio de Janeiro in January

• Rio de Janeiro's average temperature in January is 29 °C

Best known for its carnivals, football, music and beaches, Rio de Janeiro is considered Brazil's cultural capital and it boasts a hot climate year round.

There is very little variation in weather and climate across the year, with January setting the consistency at the beginning of the year.

Temperatures average at 29 °C throughout the month with six hours of sunshine in a day. Rainfall is amongst its highest with an average of 114 mm, so expect some showers during your holiday.

• Read more about the weather in Rio de Janeiro

Temperature in Sydney in January

• Sydney's average temperature in January is 27.4 °C

Home to the world-famous Opera House and Harbour Bridge is Sydney, located in the south-east corner of Australia.

Summer time in Sydney brings months of desirable weather with the hottest month in the calendar, January, enjoying eight hours of sunshine and temperatures averaging at 27.4 °C.

The high chances of rain cause a lot of humidity, with levels averaging at 70 % but the 13 mph wind is likely to be refreshing so the climate will be bearable.

• Read more about the weather in Sydney

Temperature in Cape Town in January

• Cape Town's average temperature in January is 27 °C

The second largest city in South Africa is Cape Town, located on the south coast and an up and coming popular holiday destination.

Its climate is described as Mediterranean, with January being its mildest summer month but still remaining warm with maximums averaging at 27 °C with eleven hours of sunshine.

Minimal rainfall is expected with an average of 8 mm across the month.

• Read more about the weather in Cape Town

Temperature in Cape Verde in January

• Cape Verde's average temperature in January is 25.2 °C

Found in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa is Cape Verde, an archipelago consisting of 10 different islands of volcanic origin; a perfect destination for some island hopping.

Cape Verde is divided into two groups of islands: Barlavento and Sotavento. The weather across the archipelago is unique as it has a sub-tropical mix of climates.

January is the coldest month here but it is still very warm as its average daily maximum is 25.2 °C with six hours of sunshine. There is minimal to no rainfall during the month as it averages at 3 mm.

Sea temperatures are also comfortably warm, meaning that you can enjoy swimming at some of the archipelago's finest beaches.

• Read more about the weather in Cape Verde

Temperature in Tenerife in January

• Tenerife's average temperature in January is 21.1 °C

The largest and most populated of the Canary Islands is Tenerife, known for its beaches and busy tourist resorts.

Tenerife has a difference in climate between the north and south of the island with the latter being the hotter, drier option.

January is one of the coldest months albeit remaining very warm as it reaches an average daily maximum of 21.1 °C and experiences up to six hours of daily sunshine. Small chances of rain derive from the 41 mm average rainfall.

• Read more about the weather in Tenerife

Temperature in Playa Blanca, Lanzarote in January

• Blaya Blanca's average temperature in January is 20.5 °C

One of Lanzarote's most popular resorts, situated on the southern tip of the island, is Playa Blanca; an ideal winter escape.

Even in its mildest month, Playa Blanca still has an average daily maximum of 20.8 . The climate is fairly humid with the sun shining for seven hours during the day accompanied by the cooling Atlantic breeze.

There is a slight increase in rainfall during January with averages reaching 22 mm. This is to be expected infrequently and passes quickly.

• Read more about the weather in Playa Blanca

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• Home Office

How many people come to the UK each year (including visitors)?

Published 22 August 2024

© Crown copyright 2024

This publication is licensed under the terms of the Open Government Licence v3.0 except where otherwise stated. To view this licence, visit nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/3 or write to the Information Policy Team, The National Archives, Kew, London TW9 4DU, or email: [email protected] .

Where we have identified any third party copyright information you will need to obtain permission from the copyright holders concerned.

This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/immigration-system-statistics-year-ending-june-2024/how-many-people-come-to-the-uk-each-year-including-visitors

Back to ‘Immigration system statistics, year ending June 2024’ contents page .

Data relates to the year ending June 2024 and all comparisons are with the year ending June 2023 (unless indicated otherwise). All data includes dependants, unless indicated otherwise.

1. Passenger arrivals to the UK

Most passenger arrivals will be British nationals (many of whom will be returning from short trips outside the UK), and short-term visitors (such as those coming to the UK for a holiday). However, passenger arrivals also include people coming to the UK for other reasons (such as to work or study). More information on the data sources can be found in the ‘About the statistics’ section below.

In the year ending June 2024 there were 128.4 million arrivals to the UK, 11% more than the preceding year, and 3% higher than in the year ending December 2019 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, when only taking air passenger arrivals into account.

Passengers arriving by air accounted for 88% of all passenger arrivals to the UK (across all routes) in the year ending June 2024, with 7% arriving via rail and 5% by sea. These are similar to the proportions for the year ending June 2023.

Figure 1: Monthly air passenger arrivals to the UK, January 2020 to June 2024

Source: Passenger arrivals - Arr_01

• Data prior to 2022 comes from Advanced Passenger Information (API) and is not directly comparable to data from Borders and Immigration Transaction Data (BITD).

From March 2020, following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, a variety of measures were introduced to restrict global travel and the spread of the virus. These measures were phased out in the UK during the first few months of 2022, with travel to the UK now slightly higher (up by 3%) than pre-pandemic levels since. (Figure 1).

Figure 2: Monthly passenger arrivals to the UK, British and foreign, January 2022 to June 2024

Source: Passenger arrivals - Arr_02

In the year ending June 2024, 55% of total arrivals were British nationals. The monthly proportion typically remained between 50 to 60% throughout the year, with some fluctuations which may be due to seasonal trends or differing patterns in holidays.

During periods with notable COVID-19 restrictions, such as early 2021, the proportion of British nationals was as low as 31%, which aligned with the lowest overall air passenger arrivals with the number of foreign arrivals also decreasing. As passenger numbers increased from July 2021 onwards, the proportion of British nationals increased beyond 50% again, reflecting UK citizens returning ability to take holidays and other trips abroad.

2. Visitors and short-term stays

Only certain nationalities (‘visa-nationals’) are required to obtain an entry clearance visa before coming to visit the UK, which is one reason why there are considerably more non-British passenger arrivals than visas granted. Many nationalities, including US nationals do not normally require a visa to visit the UK; consequently, there are considerably fewer visitor visas granted than visitors arriving.

There are several ways a non-British national may get permission to visit the UK for a short, temporary period, (usually up to 6 months), for purposes such as tourism, visiting friends or family, carrying out a business activity, or undertaking a short course of study.

• visa nationals must apply online for an entry clearance visa in advance of travel
• non-visa nationals can be granted leave to enter on arrival at the UK border
• people with existing immigration status do not need additional documents
• the electronic travel authorisation ( ETA ) scheme is for visitors who do not need a visa for short stays to the UK, or who do not already have a UK immigration status prior to travelling

There were 2.1 million visitor visas granted in the year ending June 2024, 16% higher than the year ending June 2023 but 13% lower than 2019, prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Visitor visa grants have continued to increase post-pandemic but are still below their peak in 2019 (2.4 million). This difference is largely due to 134,699 fewer grants to Chinese nationals, but also 119,107 fewer grants to Saudi Arabians, who no longer required a visa to visit the UK from 1 June 2022.

In the year ending June 2024, Indian nationals accounted for 25% of Visitor visas granted (530,587), with Chinese nationals accounting for 24% (507,883). The next largest visa nationalities were Turkish (7%), Nigerian (5%), Pakistani and South African nationals (both 4%).

The increase in the latest year was largely accounted for by 264,832 more visitor visas granted to Chinese nationals, more than double the number in year ending June 2023, although still 21% fewer than in the year ending December 2019, prior to the pandemic. The next largest increase in visitor visa grants in the latest year was seen by Turkish nationals with 41,535 more grants.

The ETA scheme opened to Qatari nationals on 25 October 2023. From 1 February 2024, the scheme was extended to nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan. To the end of June 2024, there had been 393,253 applications for ETAs and 388,021 grants since the ETA scheme started.

Table 1: Applications and outcomes for ETAs by nationality, from scheme commencement 1 to the end of June 2024

• The ETA Scheme commenced on 25 October 2023 for Qatari nationals only and was later opened to nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Jordan on 1 February 2024

Additional information on visitors to the UK is published by the Office for National Statistics ( ONS ) in its publication ‘Leisure and tourism statistics’ .

3. Other grants of Entry clearance visas

There were 1.3 million non-visit visas granted in the year ending June 2024, 13% fewer than in the year ending June 2023, but 68% higher than in 2019. This was made up of Work (546,774), Study (530,496), Family (84,403) and ‘Other’ (114,763) visas, which includes the Ukraine schemes (28,491).

Figure 3: Entry clearance visas granted by route (main applicants and dependants) between the year ending June 2015 and the year ending June 2024

Source: Entry clearance visa applications and outcomes – Vis_D02

• Other includes Ukraine Scheme Visas, British National (Overseas), Dependants joining or accompanying, EEA and EUSS Permits.

There were almost 3.4 million visas granted in the year ending June 2024. The number of visas granted are now 7% higher than in 2019 – before the COVID-19 pandemic and while the UK was still part of the EU – due to more work and study visas being granted (1.1 million in the year ending June 2024 compared with 596,969 in 2019). The number of visitor visa grants are still lower than in 2019. Figure 3 shows that the increase within the last year is primarily due to 294,447 more visitor visas, which now make up nearly two-thirds (62%) of total entry clearance visas granted in the year ending June 2024.

4. About these statistics

The statistics in this section provide an indication of the number of people who enter the UK. The data does not show whether, or when, an individual arrived in the UK, what they did on arrival to the UK or how long they stayed in the UK. Many nationalities do not normally require a visa to visit the UK. As a result, they will be counted in the passenger arrivals data but not in the visa data. A list of designated nationalities referred to as ‘visa nationals’ who do require a visa to visit the UK can be found in Immigration Rules Appendix V: visitor rules .

For several reasons, data on passenger arrivals is not directly comparable with data on Entry clearance visas granted. A summary of what each dataset counts is provided in section 4.1 below and section 4.2 .

4.1 Passenger arrivals

The statistics in this release relate to the number of passengers crossing the border through legitimate routes. The method used to measure those arriving in the UK have been improved and differ from methods used previously and published regularly in the ‘admissions’ data tables, which are now a part of the ‘Passengers refused entry at the border’ summary tables. Further information on the differences between these methods can be found in the user guide . Any nationality breakdowns are based on the nationality associated with the passport used to enter the UK (regardless of any dual nationality held).

The statistics include people entering the UK on most air, sea and rail routes, and while they include the vast majority of arrivals, there are some coverage gaps. For example, people entering the UK via the Common Travel Area (CTA) between the UK and Ireland are not required to present their passport on entry to the UK and will not be included in the data.

Previous Passenger Arrivals reports used Advance Passenger Information (API) data, which primarily relates to passengers coming to the UK via commercial aviation routes. The data does not include those arriving by sea or rail routes, by private vessel. As a result, figures in this report may differ from passenger arrival statistics published elsewhere, however, the levels should be broadly comparable.

4.2 Entry clearance visas

Data on Entry clearance visas in this section refer to the number of visas granted for all reasons within the period. References in the statistics to ‘visas’ will also include Entry clearance ‘permits’, such as EEA and EU Settlement Scheme Family permits, or Frontier Worker permits. If an individual was granted multiple visas in a given period, this will be counted as multiple grants in the statistics. If an individual entered the UK multiple times within the period for which a visa was valid, this will be counted as one grant in the visa statistics, but multiple arrivals in the passenger arrivals data.

Year-on-year comparisons of the number of decisions can be affected by quarterly fluctuations in the data. Such fluctuations can be examined in more detail in the quarterly data that is available in the published tables.

Several known factors may have affected the number of applications and outcomes of visit-related visas over time. For example, the Home Office launched a 2-year Chinese visa pilot in January 2016 for Chinese nationals. The increase in longer-term Visitor visas may affect the number of subsequent re-applications by Chinese nationals.

More information on non-visitor arrival and visa data by category is included in ʻWhy do people come to the UK? To work’ , ʻWhy do people come to the UK? To study’ and ʻWhy do people come to the UK? For family reasons’ .

For more information on specific routes to the UK, including Ukraine Visa Schemes and British National (Overseas) ( BN(O) ) visas, see the ‘ Safe and legal (humanitarian) routes to the UK ’.

4.3 Electronic travel authorisations ( ETAs )

Data on ETAs in this section refer to the number of ETAs applied for, and either granted, refused, or rejected within this period. If an individual was granted multiple ETAs in a given period, this will be counted as multiple grants in the statistics. If an individual entered the UK multiple times within the period for which an ETA was valid, this will be counted as one grant in the ETA statistics, but multiple arrivals in the passenger arrivals data.

An ETA application is rejected if it does not meet the validity requirements set out in paragraphs ETA 1.1. – 1.2. of the Immigration Rules: Appendix ETA , specifically ETA 1.1. (d) and/or (e). Following a rejection, applicants are able to reapply for an ETA .

An ETA application must be refused where one of the reasons outlined in paragraphs ETA 2.1. – 2.7 of the Immigration Rules: Appendix ETA , is met. If an ETA application is refused, if the applicant wishes to travel to the UK they should make an application for a visitor visa.

Further information can be found on the electronic travel authorisation ( ETA ) guidance page .

5. Data tables

• Sponsorship summary tables
• Detailed sponsorship datasets
• Entry clearance visas summary tables
• Detailed entry clearance visas datasets
• Passenger arrivals summary tables

We welcome your feedback

If you have any comments or suggestions for the development of this report, please provide feedback by emailing [email protected] . Please include the words ‘PUBLICATION FEEDBACK’ in the subject of your email.

We’re always looking to improve the accessibility of our documents. If you find any problems or have any feedback relating to accessibility, please email us.

See section 6 of the ‘ About this release ’ section for more details.

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The Gates Cambridge Scholarship aims to assist outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK to pursue a postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge.

Recipients of this prestigious scholarship will be exempted from university tuition fees at Cambridge University and will be offered an annual allowance of £20,000. Additionally, the scholarship covers flight fees, health insurance, and several other allowances.

In this post, we will guide you on the step-by-step application procedure for the 2025 Gates Cambridge Scholarship.

2025 Gates Cambridge Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: United Kingdom (UK)
• Study Abroad: Study in UK
• Category: Postgraduate Scholarships  | Masters Scholarships  | PhD Scholarships
• Eligible Countries: All Countries
• Reward: Full Scholarship | £20,000 per year | Travel Costs | Children Allowance
• No IELTS Required
• Application Opens: September 2024
• Deadline: January 4, 2025

2025 Gates Cambridge Scholarship Details:

Each year Gates Cambridge offers c.80 full-cost scholarships to outstanding applicants from countries outside the UK to pursue a postgraduate degree in any subject available at the University of Cambridge.

The Gates Cambridge Scholarship programme was established in October 2000 by an historic  donation of US$210m from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to the University of Cambridge. The first class of scholars came into residence in October 2001. Since then, the Trust has awarded over 2,000 scholarships to scholars from more than 100 countries.

The Gates Cambridge mission is to build a global network of future leaders committed to improving the lives of others.

The program aims to achieve this mission by selecting outstanding scholars, providing them with financial and non-financial support at one of the world’s leading universities and facilitating community building at and beyond Cambridge.

2025 Gates Cambridge Scholarship Requirements:

You can apply for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship if you are:

• a citizen of any country outside the United Kingdom
• PhD (full-time or part-time*)
• MLitt (full-time)
• One year postgraduate course (full-time), with some exceptions
• If you are currently studying at Cambridge and wish to apply for a new postgraduate course you can apply for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship.

A Gates Cambridge Scholarship covers the full cost of studying at Cambridge. It also provides additional, discretionary funding.

Core components

• the University Composition Fee at the appropriate rate*
• a maintenance allowance for a single student (£20,000 for 12 months at the 2023-24 rate; pro rata for courses shorter than 12 months) – for PhD scholars the award is for up to 4 years
• one economy single airfare at both the beginning and end of the course
• inbound visa costs & the cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge

The University Composition Fee varies for different types of students; applicants should see the Graduate Studies prospectus for full details about precise amounts.

Where a student has been successful in gaining a fee award from public authorities they should accept this award and the Trust will not pay their fee or may share their fee and maintenance costs.

Discretionary components

The Trust also considers applications for several types of additional funding on a discretionary basis:

• Academic development funding – from up to £500 to up to £2,000, dependent on the length of your course, to attend conferences and courses.
• Dependent Children Allowance – up to £11,604 for one child and up to £16,548 for two or more children (2023-24 rate). No funding is provided for a partner.
• Fieldwork – you may apply to keep up to your normal maintenance allowance while on fieldwork as part of your PhD (the Trust does not fund other fieldwork costs as these should be funded by the University Composition Fee).
• Maternity/Paternity funding – should you require it, you may apply to intermit your studies for up to 6 months and continue to receive your maintenance allowance during this time
• Hardship funding – for unforeseen difficulties facing the scholar

Selection Criteria for 2025 Gates Cambridge Scholarship

• Outstanding Academic excellence: transcripts, references, experience and the potential to succeed on the chosen course
• Reasons for choice of course
• A commitment to improving the lives of others
• A capacity for leadership

Deadline: 4 January, 2025

How to apply for 2025 gates cambridge scholarship (step by step).

To apply for the 2025 Gates Cambridge Scholarship;

• Applicants submit their application for admission and funding (Gates Cambridge and other funding) via the University’s Graduate Application Portal.
• To be considered for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship you must complete the section to apply for admission to a course and a College place and the Gates Cambridge part of the funding section.
• In the admission section, you are applying to a specific graduate course and a College place. You will provide all of the usual details about yourself, your academic background, plans, and suitability for the proposed course.
• In the funding section, you can apply for a range of funding offered by the University and associated bodies, including the Gates Cambridge Scholarships, which has its sub-section.
• Gates Cambridge has access to the full application for admission and funding when reviewing applications.
• Review and selection of successful applicants will be done by panels, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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