Travel 101: The Best Places to Visit by Month

March 25, 2026 - Vacations - by Megan Morrow

No matter the month, travel is always in season. If you are looking for last-minute travel deals or some inspiration for seasonal getaways, this article is for you! Check out the best places to visit every month of the year.

January

The new year is a great time to escape the cold if you live in a northern climate. You can't go wrong with a Caribbean cruise, where the temps and water are warm and welcoming.

Looking for a bigger adventure? January is a great month to visit Antarctica. It's the summer season there and penguin chicks are hatching.

February

Ready for adventure and culture?  The Rio de Janeiro Carnival in Brazil is the world’s largest festival, and an unforgettable celebration with over 8 million people!

If you prefer to enjoy culture without the huge party, the month of love is also a great time to explore the museums, food, and colors of Mexico City.

March

March into Europe when the crowds are lighter and European vacation packages are more affordable. 

If you want to keep your spring break getaway closer to home, check out the sea lions along the southern California coast or enjoy some fun hikes in Phoenix.

April

There's no better time to check out cherry blossoms than April.

You have two great options:

- Travel to Tokyo and Kyoto, Japan, to enjoy a picnic and stroll under vibrant cherry trees.

- Hop a flight to Washington, D.C., to check out cherry blossoms and outstanding history and museums.

May

Enjoy the calm before the summer rush in Paris, where you can revel in blooming gardens and a storied free Night of the Museums event.

The Greek islands are also picture-perfect this time of year, where the weather is perfect for sailing, swimming, and a little nightlife.

June

Ready for the great outdoors? You can camp in the Colorado Rockies or Glacier National Park or find beauty and balmy weather at the Bali Arts Festival in Bali.

July

The Windy City (Chicago) is an ideal summer getaway, filled with festivals, museums, and stunning sights along Lake Michigan.

You can also cool off on an Alaska cruise with adventures for all ages.

August

Before school starts, enjoy a jaunt across the pond and bask in the lively music and rich history of Ireland.

Stay stateside with a trip to Bar Harbor, Maine, the gateway to Acadia National Park and a quintessential New England coastal experience complete with vibrant culture.

September

As fall sets in, soak up the rich festivals, culture, and food of Santa Fe, New Mexico, not to mention world-class art at the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum and gorgeous drives along the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

September is also the perfect time to venture to Namibia, home to abundant wildlife, stunning scenery, and one of the largest countries in Africa.

October

South Korea is at its best this time of year, with the Andong Mask Dance Festival and peak fall foliage. 

If you love autumn colors, try northeastern Connecticut or southern Vermont to avoid the crowds. Be sure to check out our favorite fall getaway ideas and choose your perfect destination for prime leaf-peeping.

November

November is late spring in Australia, an ideal time to drive the iconic Great Ocean Road, soak up the warmth and Gold Coast beaches, or visit the Sydney Opera House.

If you're looking for warmth in the United States this time of year, quirky Key West, Florida, can't be beat.

December

As the year draws to a close, you can explore the diverse culture of Egypt through the Pyramids of Giza, Luxor Temple, and Valley of the Kings.

You could also take the whole family for a Hawaiian vacation. Kauai is a little less busy than Oahu and Maui and features lush vegetation, amazing fresh food, a Spouting Horn, and "the Grand Canyon of Hawaii."