The ever-warm Spanish Canary Islands topped the list.
January is traditionally considered a “dead” month for travel, as many people are not ready for additional expenses after a series of holidays. However, according to experts, the first month of the year is one of the most advantageous for travel.
Meanwhile, the world’s largest travel publisher, Lonely Planet, has compiled a list of the top ten destinations in the world to visit after the Christmas and New Year holidays.
The Canary Islands are the perfect start to the year
At the top of the list are the ever-warm Spanish Canary Islands, where travel experts recommend that tourists escape the cold European winter. In January, they are perfect for a variety of activities, from kitesurfing and windsurfing on the waves of the Atlantic Ocean to hiking and cycling along the golden shores or through the volcanic landscapes.
“January is the peak season in this rare warm corner of Europe, so you should book your room in advance or perhaps visit the three small western islands: the remote El Hierro, the popular hiking destination of La Gomera, or the picturesque green island of La Palma,” the authors of the ranking note.
The 10 Best Places to Visit in January 2026
- Canary Islands, Spain – for a vacation on the European islands.
- Genoa, the Cinque Terre, and the Ligurian Alps, Italy – for a trip to Italy during the low season.
- Arizona and Utah, USA, are great for winter hiking.
- Budapest, Hungary – for thermal baths.
- Laos is for temples and mountains.
- Anguilla is a great place to visit in the Caribbean.
- South-West of Sri Lanka is a great place for wildlife observation.
- Mount Kenya, Kenya – for climbing to the top.
- Chubu, Japan – for snow lovers.
- Svalbard, Norway – for observing the northern lights.