The best places to visit based on your Chinese zodiac sign

Embrace your inner animal and celebrate the Lunar New Year with a tour to your ideal zodiac-inspired destination.  

Though the start of 2026 might feel like a distant memory for most by mid-February, people all over Asia and the rest of the world are looking forward to ushering the Lunar New Year. While celebrations vary between regions, one of the event’s central focuses is the start of a brand-new zodiac cycle. 

What is the zodiac? 

Though it’s hardly a new concept, the zodiac can still seem a bit of a mystery for many around the world. In its simplest form, it’s a way to chart the movement of the sun, moon, and stars. The zodiac splits the path that the celestial bodies move on into 12 equal sections and attributes common qualities, behaviour and characteristics to those born under the different positions of a zodiac sign.  

While the Greek or Western zodiac assigns each month to the twelve positions, the Chinese zodiac uses a cycle of 12 years instead – but what does that have to do with travel? As the world ushers in the Year of the Horse, our team has been thinking all about the suggested personality traits of the different zodiac signs and what destinations suit each one best. With that in mind, what better way to inspire your next wish-list break than to trust your inner animal?  

Where’s next for your zodiac sign? 

The Rat – France 

Birth years: 1996, 1984, 1972, 1960, 1948 

As the first animal of the Chinese zodiac, rats are known for their curiosity and intelligence. Those born under this sign are said to have an innate love for varied experiences and enjoy nothing more than finding hidden gems to explore in familiar places. France, therefore, is our pick for those born during the Year of the Rat.  

Home to cosmopolitan cities, ranging vineyards and picturesque villages, this fast-paced and ever-changing country is the perfect spot for people who prefer having plenty of options to choose from. For the best of France, be sure to head south to beautiful Provence or perhaps spend time amongst the glittering cities of the French Riviera.   

Our recommended tour – Carcassonne, Avignon & Beautiful Provence 

The Ox – Canada 

Birth years: 1997, 1985, 1973, 1961, 1949 

Sturdy, stable, and sometimes stubborn, the Ox is a creature of comfort and enjoys quality wherever it goes. People born under this sign aren’t often picky when it comes to travelling but find themselves most impressed by the great outdoors. Ox signs typically value routine and will find themselves often going back to familiar favourites when making big decisions – like their next holiday, for instance! 

Canada, which combines great swathes of pristine natural beauty with modern comforts, is the perfect balance between what’s familiar and what’s yet to be ticked off your wish-list. What’s more, it’s a destination which is best explored at a slower pace, whether that’s by rail or by cruise, making it an ideal option for those looking for a more manageable experience.   

Our recommended tour –Five-star Alaska Cruise & the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer 

The Tiger – Costa Rica 

Birth years: 1998, 1986, 1974, 1962, 1950 

The Tiger, a headstrong and active creature, is next on the Chinese zodiac, and those born under its year are often just as adventurous. While that doesn’t necessarily mean that tigers want action all of the time, they’re often most at home when they’re trying something new or pushing themselves to new heights.  

With that in mind, Costa Rica has all the variety those born under this sign could need. With its colourful array of wildlife reserves, volcanic springs, and coastal forests, no two days will feel the same in this Central American hotspot. While exploring, be sure to visit one of the country’s secluded plantations for a glimpse into the traditional processes and ways of life still at play in rural Costa Rica.  

Our recommended tour – Costa Rica – Wildlife, Volcanoes & National Parks 

The Rabbit – Malta 

Birth years: 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951 

The fifth animal on the zodiac, the Rabbit, is characterised by calmness, kindness, and a love for taking life in the slow lane. Those who are born under this sign tend to enjoy themselves most when the pressure’s off and spending a few quiet moments to themselves. According to the zodiac, they’re also big fans of the natural world and can find beauty in the small things.  

For that reason, Malta seems like the ideal choice. With its pristine coastal stretches, charming medieval cities and the wild wonders of nearby Gozo, there’s plenty to feast your eyes on across this delightful Mediterranean destination. It should also be said that rabbits are the luckiest of the Chinese zodiac signs, and with Malta enjoying over 300 sunny days per year, what’s luckier than missing the rain clouds on holiday?   

Our recommended tour – Valletta, Mdina & the Wonders of Malta 

The Dragon – Japan 

Birth years: 2000, 1988, 1976, 1964, 1952 

If mythology is to be believed, dragons love being the main characters. That’s not a bad thing, either, and one of the most prominent characteristics of those born under this sign is their ambition and willingness to help others. It’s because of this that dragons are also said to be natural leaders, and they often want to be trailblazers for the boldest experiences. 

Japan certainly doesn’t fall short in that regard and has plenty of fascinating and unusual things to make your trip every bit as memorable as you’d imagined. Whether you’re gazing up at iconic Mount Fuji from a floating lakeside shrine or embracing centuries-old traditions in the country’s former imperial capitals, this island nation is a treasure trove of unique experiences.  

Our recommended tour – Japan’s Scenic South & the Golden Route 

The Snake – Uzbekistan 

Birth years: 2001, 1989, 1977, 1965, 1953 

Marking the half-way point of the zodiac cycle is the snake, and those born under this sign are often known for their wisdom, intuition and love for transformations. Their reserved nature can make them seem mysterious, but they’re often caught up in deep thought!  

Those born under the snake sign appreciate that there’s always more than meets the eye and are keen to dig beneath the surface of wherever they end up. It should come as little surprise, then, that ancient Uzbekistan, which showcases both the mysteries of the past and a number of rapidly evolving modern hubs, is the ideal choice. Often overlooked, this Central Asian gem features far more than its Silk Road landmarks and is better suited to in-depth exploration.  

Our recommended tour – Uzbekistan – Ancient Cities of the Silk Road 

The Horse – Albania 

Birth months: 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, 1954 

The term ‘free spirit’ might as well have been coined for the horse as its love for freedom and spontaneity often overtakes the desire to plan. Those born under this sign are often seen as highly active, outgoing and enthusiastic about the things they enjoy, and tend to be most comfortable when given the freedom to explore the way they want to.  

Enter Albania, with its varied blend of mountains, beaches and rural towns. Though sometimes passed over in favour of its neighbours, Greece and Croatia, this Adriatic gem is perfect for those who prefer a holiday with more freedom. For authentic local culture, head to the smaller towns of Krujë and Gjirokastër, or take in the capital Tashkent for a taste of modern Albania. 

Our recommended tour – Classic Albania – Land of the Eagle 

The Sheep – Scotland  

Birth years: 2003, 1991, 1979, 1967, 1955 

People born under the sheep sign are often homebodies. While others might be keen to push their boundaries and make sure their voice is heard, sheep are usually content with familiar spots and always look for somewhere to nurture their creative streak.  

Scotland works a treat in this regard, with its breathtaking highland vistas, welcoming cities and thriving arts scene. Whether you’re taking in iconic Loch Ness or exploring the galleries of Edinburgh and Glasgow, you’ll also find plenty of comfort with a drink or two by the fire in one of its cosy local pubs. 

Our recommended tour –   The Best of the Scottish Highlands 

The Monkey – Cambodia  

Birth years: 2004, 1992, 1980, 1968, 1956 

Playful, curious and deeply sociable, the Monkey sign is never far from excitement. Those born under this sign tend to enjoy adventure and discovering new experiences overseas but thrive when surrounded by friendly and equally sociable people.  

Though we could choose from a wide range of Southeast Asian countries, Cambodia tops our list for monkey signs, mainly because of its people. Offering a captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty and welcoming local communities, this memorable country is ideal for those in search of adventure off the beaten path.   

Our recommended tour – Follow the Mekong – Thailand, Vietnam & Cambodia 

The Rooster – Italy  

Birth years: 2005, 1993, 1981, 1969, 1957 

In East Asian cultures, the Rooster is typically seen as confident, proud and fiercely loyal – but there’s more than meets the eye when it comes to people of this sign. Many are also extremely detail-oriented, preferring to plan their time to the letter rather than throwing caution to the wind. They also enjoy finding time to appreciate the finer details and love soaking up the sights of the world’s most iconic spots.  

It’s no surprise, then, that Italy is one of the best choices for people born under the Rooster, given its famous artworks, architecture and cuisine.  From romantic Venice and easy-going Garda to the Renaissance landmarks of Florence, Italy is one of Europe’s most aesthetic spots. 

Our recommended tour – Portofino, Florence & Tuscany 

The Dog – Poland 

Birth years: 2006, 1994, 1982, 1970, 1958 

Prizing loyalty, meaning, and grounded experiences above all else, those born under the dog sign are usually interested in the emotional connections they form when they visit somewhere new. Though it’s often keen to stand by their favourite spots, this sign still enjoys embracing new experiences, meaning a balance between home comforts and  

Rich in history and with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Poland stands out as one of the best options for those in search of more poignant and meaningful experiences. With inner-city highlights, from Kraków to Warsaw, and a range of unmissable attractions further afield, this eastern European gem is ideal for those born under the dog sign. 

Our recommended tour – The Spirit of Kraków 

The Pig – Peru  

Birth years: 2007, 1995, 1983, 1971, 1959 

The final animal on the Chinese zodiac, the Pig, is all about pleasure, and there’s nothing wrong with that! Favouring a little self-care occasionally, those born under this sign love nothing more than luxury and are content when they’re sharing good food and memorable moments with the people they care about.  

Though it may not be as well-known as France, Italy and other foodie meccas across the globe, Peru’s culinary offerings are no less impressive. With European, Asian and African influences, local Peruvian cuisine is bursting with flavour, unique combinations and innovative takes on traditional Andean recipes. The food isn’t the only thing you can feast on either and the country's wish-list spots are sure to satisfy even the largest appetites for sightseeing.  

Our recommended tour – Peru – Land of the Incas 

Discover your sign’s ideal destination with Newmarket Holidays 

Whether you believe in the zodiac or have had your eye on one of the destinations listed above for a while, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today. With their expert knowledge, they’re on hand to answer any questions and get the ball rolling on your next wish-list escape. If you’ve got somewhere else in mind, you can also browse our full range of escorted tours on our dedicated destinations page.