5 Best Travel Destinations in January: Unmissable Spots for Winter Adventure

Introduction

January is one of my favorite months to travel. While some people are winding down from the holidays, I find it’s the perfect time to explore both winter wonderlands and tropical escapes. Whether you’re seeking snowy mountains or sun-soaked beaches, I’ve put together a list of the best travel destinations in January to help you start the new year with an unforgettable adventure. Ready to plan your next getaway?

1. Finland - Chasing the Northern Lights

January in Finland feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. Finnish Lapland is magical this time of year, with snow-blanketed forests and cozy cabins that feel like they were pulled straight out of a fairy tale. I can still remember standing outside late one night, bundled up in warm layers, eyes scanning the skies for the Northern Lights. It was -10°C, but the cold was worth it when the sky lit up with ribbons of green, pink, and purple. Lapland offers plenty of thrilling experiences, from husky sledding to reindeer safaris.

You can stay in Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland and Santa Claus's official hometown, where the whole village is a snowy, holiday-themed spectacle. And don’t miss a stay at glass-roofed igloos in places like Saariselkä to catch the Aurora Borealis right from your bed.
Where to Stay: Santa's Igloos Arctic Circle or the luxurious Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort in Lapland.

Local Activities:

• Husky safaris and snowmobile rides

• Visit Santa Claus Village

• Cross-country skiing through snow-drenched forests

• Northern lights excursions

2. The Maldives - Tropical Paradise in Winter

The Maldives is the quintessential beach destination, and January offers the perfect weather for it. It’s the start of the dry season, meaning you’ll enjoy sunny skies, warm waters, and idyllic island getaways. Picture yourself snorkeling through coral reefs teeming with marine life or lounging in a hammock strung between palm trees, sipping a cocktail as the sun sets. Whether you're looking for a romantic retreat, a family adventure, or a solo escape, the Maldives never disappoints.

One of my personal highlights was island-hopping—each atoll has something unique to offer, from luxurious resorts with overwater villas to local islands where you can experience traditional Maldivian culture.

Where to Stay: Consider the Vilamendhoo Island Resort for a luxurious experience or the Sun Siyam Iru Fushi for a more budget-friendly option.

Local Activities:

• Snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters

• Island-hopping to discover secluded beaches

• Relaxing in luxury spas

• Try the Maldivian dish "Mas Huni" for breakfast

3. Switzerland - Ski the Alps

Switzerland in January is nothing short of a winter sports paradise. As soon as the snow hits the slopes, the ski resorts in Zermatt, St. Moritz, and Verbier come alive with energy. The Swiss Alps offer some of the best skiing and snowboarding in Europe, with a range of pistes for beginners and pros alike. And it’s not just about skiing—there are winter hikes, sledging, and après-ski fun that offer the perfect end to an active day on the slopes.

Zermatt, located at the foot of the iconic Matterhorn, offers a fantastic range of slopes, with plenty of cozy Alpine cabins to warm up in after a day on the mountain. Plus, the car-free town ensures that you’re surrounded by nothing but fresh mountain air. For a mix of luxury and adventure, St. Moritz offers incredible spas, luxury shopping, and top-tier slopes.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Bellerive Zermatt or the Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains in St. Moritz are both excellent choices.

Local Activities:

• Skiing and snowboarding in the Swiss Alps

• Winter hikes and sledging

• Après-ski at local chalets

• Explore Zermatt’s charming, car-free streets

4. Thailand - Escape to the Tropics

January is one of the best months to visit Thailand, particularly if you want to escape the winter chill. The country’s weather is at its best, with warm, dry days that are perfect for exploring. I personally love visiting Chiang Mai this time of year, where the cool mornings are perfect for exploring temples or even hot air ballooning over the countryside. The islands in the south, like Phuket and Koh Samui, are also fantastic, offering pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and bustling nightlife.

And don’t forget the food! Thai cuisine is world-renowned, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than a local market, where you can try everything from Pad Thai to Mango Sticky Rice.
Where to Stay: For a beach stay, book a room at The Shore at Katathani in Phuket or Anantara Lawana on Koh Samui.

Local Activities:

• Hot air ballooning over Chiang Mai

• Beach-hopping in Phuket

• Visit the Wat Phra That Doi Suthep temple

• Sample street food at a local market

5. Canada - Winter Adventures in Banff

For those who love the cold, January in Banff, Canada is an absolute dream. The snow-covered landscapes are perfect for outdoor adventures, from skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing through towering pine forests. One of my favorite memories was ice-skating on Lake Louise, surrounded by towering mountains and frozen waterfalls—it’s like something out of a postcard.

Banff is also home to some incredible wildlife, so keep an eye out for elk, bighorn sheep, and even wolves while exploring the area. And after a day of adventuring, there's nothing better than soaking in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, letting the steam and warm water melt away the chill.
Where to Stay: Stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs for an unforgettable experience, or opt for the Moose Hotel & Suites for a more budget-friendly option.

Local Activities:

• Skiing at Banff Sunshine or Lake Louise

• Ice skating on Lake Louise

• Visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs

• Wildlife spotting in Banff National Park

Conclusion

Don’t wait too long to book your dream January vacation. Availability can fill up fast, especially at top destinations like these. Visit Expedia.com to find exclusive deals on hotels, flights, and more.