Everyone wants to see the Taj Mahal, but no one wants to visit India during the monsoon season.
When it comes to travel, timing is everything. From once-a-year wildlife sightings to unique cultural experiences, avoiding scorching temperatures and swerving the rains, when to go is just as important as where to go. Our expert explorers don't just create incredible itineraries, they pick the perfect times to go. So, whether you're flexible with dates or you've got an idea in mind, here are our top picks of places to visit throughout the year.
Explore by month
January
Celebrate winter on a New Year cruise, or swap winter layers for Sri Lankan sunshine, New Zealand's long summer days or Cambodia's extraordinary temples.
February
Wildlife flourishes in Costa Rica, the Galápagos islands come alive and Southeast Asia enjoys some of its finest weather.
March
Spring arrives across Asia, Morocco enjoys warm days without the summer heat, and Argentina eases into autumn, bringing vineyards, festivals and fewer crowds.
April
Tulips colour the Netherlands, cherry blossom returns to Japan, Peru's ancient wonders emerge from the rainy season refreshed, and it’s cool enough to explore the desert landscapes of Jordan.
May
The Danube winds through Austria, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia at their greenest, while Italy, Malta and France bask in the golden light of late spring.
June
Long days and warm seas make this a glorious month for Croatia, Greece and Turkey, while the Rhine's storybook villages, vineyard-covered hills and riverside cafés are at their most inviting.
July
July offers contrasting experiences, all centred around appreciating Mother Nature. There’s the bucket list-worthy Great Migration in Kenya, the epic landscapes of Canada, and the untouched natural beauty of Scandinavia and Slovenia.
August
Safari season shines in southern Africa as the dry weather means animals gather at water holes, while the Baltics and Switzerland enjoy some of their most beautiful weather – sunshine without oppressive heat.
September
September rewards those in the know. Vineyards come alive, historic cities breathe a little easier and everywhere from the Adriatic to the Silk Road seems to be showing off.
October
Rolling vineyards in Portugal, postcard-worthy coastlines in Sicily, autumn colours in South Korea and the first days of spring in Australia. If ever there was a month that had it all, October might just be it.
November
While much of Europe settles into winter, Egypt, Nepal and the Mediterranean continue to shine. It's a month made for big horizons, fascinating history and lingering afternoons in the sunshine.
December
From mulled wine and medieval market squares to Mekong sunsets and India's colourful celebrations, December proves there's more than one way to embrace the festive season.
