Want to get away in January? After all the holiday craziness, sometimes January feels like a bleak slog at work and home. But there are many places to visit in January for a little refresher. Check out our top 5 places to visit in January.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest offers warm thermal baths and stunning architecture. Explore the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and City Park. Enjoy hearty Hungarian dishes like goulash and chimney cake in the cold winter months to keep you warm. This European destination is an affordable option for budget travelers. For more information about the best activities in Budapest, check out our post here.
Helsinki, Finland
Finland is continuously voted the happiest country in the world and for good reason: sauna life. Experience a traditional Finnish sauna at Yrjӧnkatu Swimming Hall or Allas Sea Pool. With snow and ice all around you, head to the Helsinki Winter Garden, an amazing greenhouse and perfect retreat in January. Helsinki is also an extremely safe city, making it a great option for solo female travelers. Check out our post on the best things to do in Helsinki during the winter here.
Fes, Morocco
If you are looking for some where different, head to Fes and the Moroccan Sahara. Wander through the ancient medina and visit traditional tanneries in Fes. Then take an overnight to the sand dunes and spend the night in a desert camp. Trekking through the Sahara on camels is an unforgettable experience. While getting to Morocco can be pricey, once you arrive in country, the attractions and accommodations are very reasonable. Check out our 10 day Morocco itinerary for more details and tips for traveling to Morocco.
Reykjavik, Iceland
January is an excellent time to see the aurora borealis (Northern Lights), but don’t forget about the other amazing activities that Iceland offers in the winter. Enjoy a Golden Circle tour to the geysers, waterfalls and national parks. Relax in the famous geothermal spas at the Blue Lagoon and enjoy some amazing Icelandic dishes like whale and the traditional “plokkari” fish stew. Our favorite activity in Iceland in January might just be a glacier hike. For more tips and ways to save money when visiting Reykjavik, check out our full post here.
Torres del Paine National Park (Patagonia), Chile
I think Patagonia in January is the perfect time to visit. The sun doesn’t set until 10 pm, leaving you long days to explore Torres del Paine National Park. You can spot wildlife throughout the park, like guanacos, pumas and Andean condors. You can embark on the multi-day W trek or enjoy our favorite day hikes in Torres del Paine. Check out our full guide to visiting Patagonia for beginners and if you are on a budget, don’t miss our ways to visit Chile on a budget.
Each of these winter destinations offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Traveling in January can be easy and fun in these 5 spots around the world. Embrace the winter season in Reykjavik or Helsinki or escape the cooler temperatures in Morocco or Hungary. Enjoy planning your winter travels!
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