10 Best Countries to Visit in January to

Do you want to give the New Year a great start? And want to be in the most beautiful place in the world in the New Year. But don’t know how you can do that? We help you to create memories this January. In this guide, we have told about 10 selected countries where you can go in January and make the beginning of the new year even more beautiful and memorable. Whether you want to ski in the mountain ranges or relax on the beaches under the warm sun, our guide explores the best countries to visit during the year’s first month. Let’s explore the top destinations, places, and activities to enjoy.

List of 10 Best Countries You can Visit in January

1. Australia

Going to Australia in January is going to be very special for you. Because it is summer season here at this time, so it is the right time to see beautiful beaches and wildlife. During this time the charm of the cities of Australia is also different. You will find an atmosphere of festivals and fun everywhere.

Best Places to Visit in Australia:

1. Sydney: Iconic for its Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach.
2. Melbourne: Known for its art scene, cafes, and cultural festivals.
3. Great Barrier Reef: A UNESCO World Heritage Site teeming with marine life.
4. Gold Coast: Renowned for its surf beaches and theme parks.
5. Tasmania: Home to rugged wilderness and charming towns.

Top 5 Things to Do in Australia:

1. Watch Fireworks at Sydney Harbour: Enjoy spectacular New Year celebrations.
2. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef: Discover vibrant coral reefs and sea creatures.
3. Drive the Great Ocean Road: Witness dramatic coastal landscapes and the Twelve Apostles.
4. Explore National Parks: Spot kangaroos, koalas, and other wildlife in parks like Kakadu.
5. Attend the Australian Open: Experience world-class tennis in Melbourne.

1. Switzerland

The first winter wonderland in January is Switzerland. The snow-capped peaks here attract everyone. The beauty of this place increases even more in January, so Switzerland is the best place to visit in January. And if you are a ski lover then this trip is going to be very special for you because here you will find some of the best ski resorts in the world where you can enjoy skiing.

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland:

1. Zermatt: A Zermatt is a car-free village famous for skiing and the Matterhorn. As soon as you arrive here, you will be drawn to the sharp peaks that are ideal for skiing.
2. Lucerne: Lucerne a lakeside city of Switzerland has its historical background and is famous for its mountainous beauty with medieval architecture.
3. Interlaken: The adventure capital lies between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.
4. St. Moritz: A luxury resort renowned for its winter sports and après-ski culture.
5. Geneva: A cosmopolitan city with views of Mont Blanc and places of cultural interest.

Top 5 things to do in Switzerland:

1. Skiing and snowboarding: Enjoy world-class slopes in Zermatt and St. Moritz.
2. Explore the Jungfraujoch: visit the “Top of Europe” for spectacular glacier views.
3. Board the Glacier Express: A scenic train ride through the Swiss Alps.
4. Relax at the spa: Enjoy warm thermal baths in Leukerbad.
5. Visit Christmas markets: Get some Christmas cheer at Swiss markets like Montreux.

2. Thailand

Thailand is known for its incredible beaches and vibrant culture. While enjoying the hustle and bustle of bustling cities and the open nightlife, you can also enjoy the quiet comfort of its quiet islands. Its warm climate makes it one of the best places to visit in January.

Best places to visit in Thailand:

1. Bangkok: The bustling capital known for its temples, markets and nightlife.
2. Chiang Mai: A cultural hub with ancient temples and lush mountains.
3. Phuket: famous for its beaches, luxury resorts and water activities.
4. Krabi: Home to limestone cliffs, emerald waters and secluded beaches.
5. Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with fascinating ruins.

Some more tourist attractions in Thailand will build your interest.

Top 5 things to do in Thailand:

1. Island hopping: Explore Phi Phi Island and Koh Samui.
2. Visit temples: Admire Wat Arun and Wat Phra Kaew in Bangkok.
3. Taste Thai street food: Enjoy Pad Thai, Som Tum and Mango Sticky Rice.
4. Snorkel or dive: discover the marine life of the Similan Islands.
5. Attend the Lantern Festival: watch the sky of Chiang Mai light up with thousands of lanterns.

Before planning a trip to Thailand you must go through Dos and Don’ts for a fantastic vacation.

3. Japan

You will have a unique experience in Japan if you visit Japan in January. The first month of the year is full of snowfall and cultural festivals. January is the perfect time to explore Japanese traditions and enjoy hot springs. If you like to party then don’t forget to visit Tokyo, as there is something here that will make your Japan trip memorable.

Best places to visit in Japan:

1. Tokyo: A vibrant city offering shopping, entertainment and cultural attractions.
2. Kyoto: A paradise of historic temples and traditional teahouses.
3. Hokkaido: Famous for its ski resorts and hot springs.
4. Osaka – known for its vibrant street food scene and nightlife.
5. Nara: home to ancient temples and freely roaming deer.

Top 5 things to do in Japan:

1. Skiing in Niseko: Experience world-class powder snow.
2. Relax in an onsen: Soak in natural hot springs, especially in Hakone.
3. Meet the snow monkeys: Watch them bathe in the Jigokudani hot springs.
4. Attend a sumo tournament: January is the first major sumo tournament of the year.
5. Explore Shirakawa-go: a UNESCO site with traditional gassho-zukuri farms.

4. New Zealand

New Zealand has a special place on this list because of its mild summer weather and incredible natural beauty in January. Its natural landscapes, spectacular beaches, and mountains make it a paradise for outdoor activities. Whether you are an adventure lover or want to enjoy nature in peace, New Zealand promises something special for everyone. Every corner here tells a new story.

Best places to visit in New Zealand:

1. Auckland: The “city of sails” with a stunning harbour and vibrant culture.
2. Queenstown: Surrounded by lakes and mountains, known as the adventure capital.
3. Rotorua: A geothermal paradise with hot springs and Maori culture.
4. Milford Sound: A beautiful fjord in Fiordland National Park.
5. Waiheke Island: Famous for its wineries and pristine beaches.

You can add some more places you can visit in New Zealand to make your trip more exciting.

Top 5 things to do in New Zealand:

1. Bungee jumping: Try thrilling activities like bungee jumping and zip lining in Queenstown.
2. Hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing: Explore one of the best day hikes in the world.
3. Cruise around Milford Sound: Admire waterfalls, cliffs and marine life.
4. Experience Maori culture: attend a cultural show or visit a traditional village in Rotorua.
5. Try local wines: Visit the wineries of Waiheke Island and taste world-class wines.

6. Maldives

Visiting the spectacular and enchanting islands, beaches and turquoise waters of Maldives is a special experience in itself. Staying in luxurious villas built on crystal clear waters in Velaa Private Island will make your trip even more memorable. For adventure, you can enjoy various water sports here. The calm natural environment here will give you an unforgettable vacation. Maldives is considered one of the best honeymoon destinations.

Best Places to Visit in Maldives:

1. Malé: The bustling capital with cultural landmarks.
2. Baa Atoll: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its rich marine life.
3. Ari Atoll: Famous for snorkeling and diving with whale sharks.
4. Vaadhoo Island: Renowned for its mesmerizing “Sea of Stars” phenomenon.
5. Addu Atoll: A quieter escape with lush landscapes and reefs.

Top 5 Things to Do in Maldives:

1. Snorkel or Dive: Explore vibrant coral reefs and swim with manta rays.
2. Stay in an Overwater Villa: Enjoy luxury accommodations with ocean views offered in Velaa Private Island.
3. Dine Underwater: Experience unique dining at an underwater restaurant.
4. Go Night Fishing: Try traditional fishing methods under the stars.
5. Relax on Private Beaches: Unwind with unmatched serenity.

7. Austria

Austria transforms into a snowy wonderland in January, offering charming villages, world-class skiing, and rich cultural experiences. It’s an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Best Places to Visit in Austria:

1. Vienna: The cultural heart of Austria with imperial palaces and museums.
2. Salzburg: Mozart’s birthplace, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
3. Innsbruck: A vibrant alpine city known for skiing and stunning architecture.
4. Hallstatt: A fairy-tale village on a serene lake.
5. Kitzbühel: A glamorous ski resort town.

Top 5 Things to Do in Austria:

1. Attend a Classical Concert: Enjoy Vienna’s legendary music scene.
2. Ski in the Alps: Hit the slopes in Innsbruck or Kitzbühel.
3. Explore Ice Caves: Discover natural wonders like the Eisriesenwelt in Werfen.
4. Visit Schönbrunn Palace: Marvel at Austria’s imperial history in Vienna.
5. Savor Austrian Cuisine: Try schnitzel, apple strudel, and hot mulled wine.

8. South Africa

South Africa in January offers summer sunshine, incredible wildlife, and diverse landscapes. From safaris to vibrant cities, the country promises unforgettable experiences.

Best Places to Visit in South Africa:

1. Cape Town: A stunning city with Table Mountain and nearby vineyards.
2. Kruger National Park: A premier safari destination with the Big Five.
3. Garden Route: A scenic coastal drive dotted with charming towns.
4. Durban: Known for its beaches and Indian-influenced cuisine.
5. Johannesburg: A cultural and historical hub.

Top 5 Things to Do in South Africa:

1. Go on a Safari: Spot lions, elephants, and rhinos in Kruger National Park.
2. Hike Table Mountain: Take in panoramic views of Cape Town.
3. Visit Robben Island: Learn about Nelson Mandela’s legacy.
4. Tour Winelands: Taste world-class wines in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek.
5. Dive with Sharks: Experience cage diving near Gansbaai.

9. Brazil

Brazil’s summer in January is vibrant and energetic, with lively cities, tropical rainforests, and iconic beaches. It’s a fantastic time to explore its rich culture and natural beauty.

Best Places to Visit in Brazil:

1. Rio de Janeiro: Famous for Christ the Redeemer and Copacabana Beach.
2. Salvador: A cultural hub with Afro-Brazilian traditions.
3. Amazon Rainforest: A biodiversity hotspot with unique wildlife.
4. Iguazu Falls: One of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls.
5. Florianópolis: A paradise for surfers and beach lovers.

Top 5 Things to Do in Brazil:

1. Join the Carnival Prep: Get a sneak peek into Rio’s carnival rehearsals.
2. Visit Sugarloaf Mountain: Enjoy cable car rides with stunning views.
3. Explore the Amazon: Go on a river cruise or jungle trek.
4. Dance Samba: Immerse yourself in Brazil’s rhythmic culture.
5. Relax on Beaches: Unwind on pristine beaches like Ipanema or Jericoacoara.

10. Iceland

Iceland in January offers a spectacular winter landscape, with glaciers, lava fields and the possibility of seeing the northern lights. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.

Best Places to Visit in Iceland:

1. Reykjavik: The capital with unique architecture and vibrant nightlife.
2. Blue Lagoon: A geothermal spa with stunning surroundings.
3. Golden Circle: A route featuring Thingvellir, Geysir, and Gullfoss Waterfall.
4. Vatnajökull National Park: Home to Europe’s largest glacier.
5. Akureyri: A charming town in the north with rich culture.

Top 5 Things to Do in Iceland:

1. Chase the Northern Lights: Witness this natural phenomenon in remote areas.
2. Soak in Hot Springs: Relax in geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon.
3. Explore Ice Caves: Venture into the dazzling ice caves of Vatnajökull.
4. Go Glacier Hiking: Trek across glaciers with experienced guides.
5. Visit Black Sand Beaches: See the iconic Reynisfjara Beach with basalt columns.