Are you looking to begin 2025 in the best possible way? Do not worry; we have got you. There is no better way to jump right into January than ticking off your travel bucket list. Unleash your inner wanderlust and travel the world to your heart’s content. January has a bit of everything in it—a bit of leftover winter, summery days and a fresh start! So let us help you plan your international tour packages and ensure that you start 2025 with a bang! Keep reading on to find out about the best countries to visit in January, as there is clearly an abundance of it!
18 Best Places to See in January
- Maldives
- Thailand
- Australia
- Japan
- New Zealand
- Italy
- Dubai
- South Africa
- Sri Lanka
- Singapore
- Vietnam
- Malaysia
- Egypt
- Greece
- Island
- Norway
- Philippines
- Turkey
Now that you know the list of countries to visit, let us dive into the best places to visit, things to do, the best time to visit, the cost and tips for travelling to the best countries to go in January!
1. Maldives
Best time to visit: Although Maldives is in season throughout the year, welcoming visitors all around the year, the best time to visit Maldives is during the months of November to April since the weather is sunny and dry.
Best things to do: One of the best things to do in the Maldives is snorkelling and diving if you are one for water sports and activities. However, if you want to take in the beauty of the island, you can always relax by the beaches, spoil yourself with luxury spa treatments and take underwater excursions.
Best places to visit: Some of the best places to visit in the Maldives include Male, Baa Atoll, Ari Atol and Vaadhool Island, which is famously known for its bioluminescent waters.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹2,00,000- ₹2,10,000
- Mid-range: ₹4,00,000- ₹4,15,000
- Luxury: ₹8,30,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Opt for guesthouses on local islands instead of private resorts. Use public ferries for inter-island travel and book Maldives tour packages that include meals and activities.
2. Thailand
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Thailand is between the months of November to February, so it is a must-add to your list of best countries to go to in January. This is because it offers pleasant weather conditions that make it ideal for outdoor activities like exploring the city and taking a beach day, among others!
Best things to do: On your trip to Thailand, explore the Bangkok markets and temples, take a relaxing day by the beaches of Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, or enjoy the sanctuaries like the elephant sanctuaries and jungle treks in Chiang Mai.
Best places to visit: Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and Ayutthaya, among several others, are some of the best places to visit in Thailand.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹80,000-₹1,00,000
- Mid-range: ₹2,00,000- ₹2,10,000
- Luxury: ₹3,32,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Utilise local transportation like tuk-tuks and buses. Eat at street food stalls for delicious and affordable meals, and stay in guesthouses or budget hotels.
3. Australia
Best time to visit: It is mid-summer in Australia in the month of January, so if you want to start your year with a summery escape, then Australia is the pick for you out of the countries to visit in January.
Best things to do: In Australia, you can engage in a number of activities like going snorkelling or diving in the Great Barrier Reef, visiting popular landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Bridge or visiting the national parks.
Best places to visit: Best places to visit in Australia include Sydney, Cairns, Melbourne and Tasmania, to name a few.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹2,00,00- ₹2,00,000
- Mid-range: ₹3,00,000- ₹4,00,000
- Luxury: ₹5,81,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Book flights and accommodations well in advance, and consider visiting less touristy areas to reduce costs. Utilise public transportation and look for free attractions in cities.
For a hassle-free trip experience, make sure to book Australia tour packages from Pickyourtrail!
4. Japan
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Japan is during the months of March to May if you want to experience spring and October and November if you wish for autumn. January is winter in Japan, perfect for snow activities and experiencing unique winter festivals.
Best things to do: During your Japan trip, make sure to visit iconic shrines and temples, indulging in activities like sushi making, visiting the hot springs or taking the bullet train rides. In winter you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.
Best places to visit: As part of your Japan tour packages, make sure to check out Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mount Fuji, and Hokkaido.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹1,00,000-₹2,00,000
- Mid-range: ₹3,00,000-₹3,50,000
- Luxury: ₹5,81,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Purchase a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited train travel. Stay in business hotels or capsule hotels to reduce accommodation costs.
Also read: Long holidays in 2025!
5. New Zealand
Best time to visit: The best time to visit New Zealand is between the months of December and February, as it is summer during these months. Since January falls between these months, New Zealand is a definite addition to the best holiday places in January.
Best things to do: Make sure to engage in adventure activities like bungee jumping, skydiving, and hiking. You can also visit national parks while also experiencing the Maori culture and cuisine.
Best places to visit: Best places to visit in New Zealand include Queenstown, Milford Sound, Rotorua, Auckland, and Abel Tasman National Park.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹1,00,000- ₹1,66,000
- Mid-range: ₹2,00,000- ₹3,00,000
- Luxury: ₹4,98,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Rent a campervan to save on accommodation and transportation costs. Take advantage of free outdoor attractions like hiking trails and beaches.
Book New Zealand tour packages to avail the best deals.
6. Italy
Best time to visit: In order to reap the benefits of your travel, make sure to travel to Italy between the months of April and June, as the weather conditions are pleasant with spring fresh in the air.
Best things to do: Some of the best things to do in Italy include exploring the Colosseum in Rome, taking gondola rides in Venice, and wine tasting in Tuscany.
Best places to visit: During your Italy trip, make sure to visit Rome, Venice, Florence, the Amalfi Coast, and Tuscany without fail.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹70,000 – ₹1,00,000
- Mid-range: ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,80,000
- Luxury: ₹2,50,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Travel by train between cities, and dine in trattorias instead of touristy restaurants for affordable meals.
7. Dubai
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Dubai would be between the months of November and March due to its cool and pleasant weather conditions that allow for outdoor activities to enjoy as you travel to some of the best countries to visit in January.
Best things to do: Dubai is popular for shopping at the famous Dubai Mall, going on desert safaris and visiting the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah.
Best places to visit: Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek, Jumeirah Beach, and Burj Khalifa are some of the best places to visit in Dubai.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹50,000 – ₹70,000
- Mid-range: ₹90,000 – ₹1,30,000
- Luxury: ₹2,00,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Use the Dubai Metro for transport, and book excursions like desert safaris in advance for discounts.
If you want to get great deals on hotels and attractions, make sure to book Dubai tour packages from Pickyourtrail.
8. South Africa
Best time to visit: The best time to visit South Africa is during the months of May and September, as it is a dry season, which is ideal for safaris to make the most of your trip.
Best things to do: Some of the best things to do during your trip to South Africa are taking a safari in Kruger National Park, hiking at Table Mountain, and exploring the Cape Winelands, among several others.
Best places to visit: Make sure to visit Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, Kruger, and the Garden Route.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹80,000 – ₹1,20,000
- Mid-range: ₹1,40,000 – ₹2,00,000
- Luxury: ₹2,50,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Book safari tours and accommodation in advance, and look for budget-friendly guesthouses.
9. Sri Lanka
Best time to visit: Visit Sri Lanka from December to April to experience pleasant and peaceful weather conditions.
Best things to do: If you want to make the most of your trip and enjoy the best of countries to travel in January, then visit the ancient Sigiriya Rock, relax at Unawatuna Beach, and explore Colombo’s markets.
Best places to visit: Some of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka are Colombo, Kandy, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, and Galle.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹30,000 – ₹50,000
- Mid-range: ₹55,000 – ₹85,000
- Luxury: ₹1,50,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Use public transport or tuk-tuks for getting around and eat at local food stalls for cheap and tasty meals.
Book Sri Lanka tour packages to customise your own itinerary!
10. Singapore
Best time to visit: Visit Singapore between the months of December and June, as the entire country is vibrant and lively and the weather conditions are pleasant.
Best things to do: On your Singapore trip, some of the activities you can engage in, such as visiting the Gardens by the Bay and Merlion Park, shopping at Orchard Road, and enjoying Sentosa Island, among many other popular attractions.
Best places to visit: Some of the most popular landmarks in Singapore include Merlion Park, Marina Bay Sands, Little India, Chinatown, and Universal Studios Singapore.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹50,000 – ₹70,000
- Mid-range: ₹80,000 – ₹1,20,000
- Luxury: ₹1,50,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Use the Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited public transport and eat at hawker centres.
11. Vietnam
Best time to visit: If you want to make the most of the cheapest countries to visit in January, then visit Vietnam during November and April. Not only are the climatic conditions optimally suitable, you will also get access to affordable flights and accommodation.
Best things to do: Some of the best things to do in Vietnam include taking a boat cruise in Halong Bay, visiting ancient Hoi An, and exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, among many other popular activities such as cave exploration, motorbike tours, cooking classes and river cruises.
Best places to visit: Your trip to Vietnam is not complete without stopping by Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hoi An, and Halong Bay.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹35,000 – ₹50,000
- Mid-range: ₹60,000 – ₹90,000
- Luxury: ₹1,20,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Utilise local transportation like tuk-tuks and buses. Eat at street food stalls for delicious and affordable meals, and stay in guesthouses or budget hotels.
In order to avail budget-friendly options, book Vietnam tour package.
12. Malaysia
Best time to visit: Visit Malaysia during December to February to make the most of the pleasant climatic conditions.
Best things to do: Some of the most exciting things to do in Malaysia that cannot be missed are visiting the Petronas Towers, exploring Langkawi, and experiencing the vibrant night markets in Kuala Lumpur.
Best places to visit: Do not miss out on stopping by Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, Penang, and the Cameron Highlands during your trip to Malaysia.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹40,000 – ₹60,000
- Mid-range: ₹70,000 – ₹1,00,000
- Luxury: ₹1,50,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Travel by public buses or trains, and look for affordable accommodation options outside main tourist spots.
13. Egypt
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Egypt is between the months of October and April. You get to experience cool and chill winter conditions.
Best things to do: While visiting one of the best places to see in January, some of the must-do activities in Egypt include visiting the Pyramids of Giza, exploring ancient temples in Luxor, and cruising through the Nile River.
Best places to visit: Some of the must-visit places in Egypt include Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and Sharm El Sheikh.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹40,000 – ₹60,000
- Mid-range: ₹70,000 – ₹1,00,000
- Luxury: ₹1,50,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Use local transport and book package tours to Egypt’s main attractions for better rates.
In order to avail 24/7 concierge support to attend to all your travel needs and queries, make sure to book Egypt tour packages from Pickyourtrail.
14. Greece
Best time to visit: Visit Greece during the months of April to June to reap the benefits of warm and pleasant weather conditions without worrying about the summer heat or too much crowd.
Best things to do: Make sure to visit the Acropolis in Athens, explore Santorini’s beaches, and hike the trails in Crete during your Greece tour package.
Best places to visit: Some of the most popular destinations you cannot miss out on are Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹60,000 – ₹90,000
- Mid-range: ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,50,000
- Luxury: ₹2,00,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Travel by ferry between islands and avoid peak-season tourist traps for affordable options.
15. Iceland
Best time to visit: If you want to experience the Northern Lights as you visit some of the best European countries to visit in January, then visit Iceland between the months of September and March. For summer activities, visit between April and June.
Best things to do: See the Northern Lights, visit the Blue Lagoon, and explore Reykjavik’s vibrant culture as part of Iceland tour packages.
Best places to visit: Some of the best places to visit in Iceland include Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹90,000 – ₹1,20,000
- Mid-range: ₹1,50,000 – ₹2,00,000
- Luxury: ₹2,50,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Rent a car to explore at your own pace, and look for affordable accommodation in Reykjavik.
16. Norway
Best time to visit: Visit this gorgeous country during the months of June to September to experience the wonderful summer and December to February for winter activities and Northern Lights.
Best things to do: You cannot visit Norway and not see the Northern Lights, explore fjords in Bergen, hike in Tromso or go dog sledding.
Best places to visit: Make sure to visit Oslo, Bergen, Tromso, Geirangerfjord, and the Lofoten Islands.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹1,20,000 – ₹1,50,000
- Mid-range: ₹1,80,000 – ₹2,50,000
- Luxury: ₹3,00,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Use the Oslo Pass for free entry to attractions and affordable public transport.
All the hassles of planning your Norway tour packages will be taken care of by our travel experts.
17. Philippines
Best time to visit: Philippines is definitely one of the best countries to travel in January, and the best time to visit it is during the months of December to May to have a perfect summer vacation.
Best things to do: To make the most of your Philippines trip, make sure to explore Palawan’s beaches, visit chocolate hills in Bohol, and dive in Cebu, among other fantastic things to do.
Best places to visit: Manila, Palawan, Cebu, Bohol, and Boracay are some of the best places to visit in Philippines.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹40,000 – ₹60,000
- Mid-range: ₹70,000 – ₹1,00,000
- Luxury: ₹1,50,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Use ferries for island hopping and choose affordable local accommodations.
18. Turkey
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Turkey is between the months of April and June for pleasant climatic conditions.
Best things to do: Some of the best things to do as you visit this magnificent country include visiting the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, taking a hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia, exploring the ancient ruins of Ephesus, and relaxing in the thermal pools of Pamukkale.
Best places to visit: Your trip to Turkey will be deemed incomplete if you do not visit Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus, and Antalya.
Average cost per person:
- Budget: ₹50,000 – ₹80,000
- Mid-range: ₹90,000 – ₹1,50,000
- Luxury: ₹2,00,000 and more
Cost saver tip: Use local buses and trams for affordable transport in cities like Istanbul, and opt for street food, which is both delicious and inexpensive. Pre-book your tours and activities for discounts.
Do not forget to make your bookings for Turkey tour package through Pickyourtrail to get the best deals on accommodations and flights.
Now that you have read through the article, it is pretty evident that there are limitless options for you to enjoy your January vacation and have absolutely the best time ever beginning your 2025. Adventure, nature, sightseeing, relaxation—you can have it all by visiting one of the best countries to visit in January. So, wait no further and hop on a flight with your family or loved one as you book international honeymoon packages and have an incredible, hassle-free and unforgettable trip experience with Pickyourtrail!
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