Best Places to Travel in January: Expert Picks from Roads Les Traveled

January is one of the most underrated months to travel—and one of our favorites at Roads Les Traveled. With holiday crowds gone, better availability, and cooler (or warmer!) climates worldwide, January is ideal for travelers who want more value, more space, and more meaningful experiences.

Whether you’re craving snowy scenery, sunshine after the holidays, cultural immersion, or a fresh-start adventure, these January travel destinations offer the perfect way to begin the new year.

✨ Start planning with a trusted advisor at www.roadslestraveled.net📍 Follow travel inspiration and tips on Facebook.

Why January Is a Great Month to Travel

• Fewer crowds after the holiday rush

• Excellent pricing and availability in many destinations

• Ideal weather in tropical and Southern Hemisphere locations

• Peak season for snow sports and winter scenery

• A perfect time for “reset” trips, wellness travel, and adventure

  
  

Winter Wonderland Destinations

January is prime time for travelers who love snow, alpine scenery, and true winter experiences.

Banff & Lake Louise, Canada

January transforms Banff National Park into a snow-covered masterpiece. Frozen lakes, snow-dusted peaks, and cozy mountain lodges make this an unforgettable winter escape. Ice skating on Lake Louise, snowshoeing, and wildlife spotting are highlights—without peak-season crowds.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Known for its dramatic mountain scenery and world-class skiing, Jackson Hole shines in January. It’s perfect for travelers who want authentic winter adventure paired with charming western hospitality and luxury lodges.

Zermatt, Switzerland

For travelers dreaming of a European alpine experience, Zermatt delivers. With the Matterhorn as its backdrop, January offers excellent skiing, charming car-free streets, and cozy après-ski dining in one of Switzerland’s most iconic mountain towns.

Warm Weather Escapes to Start the Year

If your idea of January travel includes sunshine and warmth, these destinations are ideal.

Aruba

January is peak season in Aruba for a reason—sunny days, low humidity, and perfect beach weather. It’s an excellent choice for couples, groups, or travelers wanting an easy, luxurious escape with reliable weather.

Costa Rica

January falls within Costa Rica’s dry season, making it ideal for wildlife viewing, rainforest hikes, ziplining, and beach time. From eco-lodges to boutique resorts, Costa Rica is a favorite for travelers seeking nature, adventure, and sustainability.

Scottsdale, Arizona

With mild temperatures and sunny skies, Scottsdale is perfect for golf, spa retreats, hiking, and culinary experiences. January is also ideal for wellness-focused trips and girlfriend getaways.

International Culture & City Escapes

January is an excellent time to explore cities without peak-season congestion.

Tokyo, Japan

January in Tokyo offers crisp weather, fewer tourists, and beautiful seasonal traditions. Travelers can enjoy cultural festivals, peaceful temple visits, and even day trips to nearby snow regions like Hakone or Nagano.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is mild, charming, and far less crowded in January. It’s perfect for travelers who want culture, food, coastal views, and walkable neighborhoods—without summer heat or crowds.

Rome, Italy

January is one of the best times to visit Rome. Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists make iconic sites like the Colosseum and Vatican far more enjoyable, while cozy trattorias and local neighborhoods shine.

Adventure & Bucket-List January Travel

For travelers ready to kick off the year with something extraordinary, January opens doors to unique adventures.

Patagonia (Chile & Argentina)

January is summer in Patagonia, making it ideal for hiking, glacier exploration, and dramatic landscapes. It’s a top choice for adventure travelers who want big scenery and unforgettable experiences.

Antarctica

January is peak expedition season for Antarctica. Travelers can experience wildlife encounters, iceberg kayaking, and pristine landscapes that few people ever see. This is true bucket-list travel.

Iceland

January offers a magical combination of snowy landscapes, fewer crowds, and excellent chances to see the Northern Lights. Add in geothermal lagoons and dramatic winter scenery, and Iceland becomes unforgettable.

Family-Friendly January Destinations

January travel can be surprisingly family-friendly—especially for those avoiding school holiday crowds.

Orlando, Florida

January brings cooler temperatures and lighter crowds to theme parks, making it one of the best times of year for family travel to Orlando.

San Diego, California

With mild weather and attractions like the San Diego Zoo, beaches, and museums, San Diego is perfect for multigenerational January travel.

Quebec City, Canada

For families who love winter magic, Quebec City in January feels like a snow globe. Ice skating, winter festivals, and historic charm create a memorable family experience.

Final Thoughts from Roads Les Traveled

January is the perfect month to reset, explore, and travel smarter. Whether you want winter adventure, sunshine, cultural immersion, or a once-in-a-lifetime experience, January offers incredible options—often with better value and fewer crowds.

At Roads Les Traveled, we design personalized trips that align with your travel style, goals, and timing—so your year starts exactly the way you want it to.

✈️ Ready to plan your January getaway?🌍 Visit www.roadslestraveled.net📍 Follow us on Facebook for inspiration, tips, and featured destinations