Which destination to discover for each month in 2027
It’s the perfect time to start looking ahead to travel experiences in 2027 and beyond, but which holiday hotspots are best for each month?
The start of the year has already seen thousands of dream holidays being brought to life, and with many more wish-list moments still to come this year, our team is excited to see what’s next. Though the summer holidays are just around the corner, it’s never too soon to look further ahead and start planning for the trip you’ve always imagined taking.
One of the trickiest parts of holiday planning is deciding when to book. While we can’t promise sunshine every day, our team has been drawing on their expertise and our data to put together a quick and easy guide to the very best destinations for each time of year. From a milder Indian adventure in the winter to a spectacular summer safari in South Africa, here are the spots that are guaranteed to make 2027 memorable, no matter when you travel.
The top 2027 travel destinations by month
January – India
India is a destination that keeps us coming back for more every year, and 2027 is no exception. South Asian summers tend to fall between March and May, with the monsoon season following directly afterwards until around September, so a trip in the January shoulder season is a great choice. With milder temperatures, fewer crowds and predominantly dry weather, you can rest assured that your dream Indian escape will be most comfortable in the winter months.
If you can’t quite set your India trip for January, don’t worry – scheduling your holiday for March means you’ll get to witness, and perhaps take part in, the colourful local Holi celebrations.
Our recommended tour – India – Tigers & the Taj Mahal
February – Iceland
If intimacy and romance are top of your travel wish-list in 2027, an unlikely contender might be Iceland. Though it may not share the same world-renowned reputation as other European spots, like Venice or Paris, Iceland is actually remarkably suited for a short Valentine’s Day getaway. The colder weather invites closeness, and with the Northern Lights at their enchanting best through the winter, there are plenty of memorable moments to share with that special someone.
While here, don’t miss out on some of the breathtaking natural beauty, from Skogafoss to the famed Blue Lagoon, and perhaps venture into Reykjavik for an intimate dinner for two.
Our recommended tour – Iceland – Reykjavík & the Northern Lights
March - Costa Rica
Marking the middle of Costa Rica’s dry season, March is a particularly good choice if a South American safari is high on your wish-list. That might sound counterintuitive, but with thinner vegetation and more animals flocking to watering holes, it’s much easier to spot the colourful local species amongst the country’s wild national parks. From the birdwatchers’ paradise of Monteverde to Tortuguero’s coastal lagoons, the dry season also makes the secluded wilderness trails more accessible, so you can get even closer to each species.
What’s more, with a trip to Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast, you’ll also enjoy some of the country’s finest beachfront towns, which are perfect for making the most of the near-endless spring sunshine.
Our recommended tour – Costa Rica – Wildlife, Volcanoes & National Parks
April – The Netherlands
April is tulip season in the Netherlands, and there aren’t many natural spectacles in Europe that can rival the sheer scale of it. Particularly impressive is the Bollenstreek area, nestled between Amsterdam and the Hague, which is known for its colourful bulb fields. The Keukenhof Gardens, a standout attraction every year, which displays millions of flowers in bloom, is the region’s crown jewel, and nowhere does tulip season quite like it.
Elsewhere, Amsterdam’s canal-lined streets come alive for King's Day, and the mild spring temperatures add to an already memorable escape. For a deeper dive into what Keukenhof is, and why it deserves a spot at the top of your travel wish-list, check out our recent blog post.
Our recommended tour – Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbfields
May - Croatia
Opting for a Croatian getaway in the weeks leading up to the summer holidays is an ideal choice for those looking for warmer Mediterranean weather away from the crowds. Better yet, there’s more than enough to keep you entertained in the sunshine, with a wide range of heritage sites, cosmopolitan cities and exquisite island towns to explore across Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. For an authentic taste of life in rural Croatia, accompanied by some truly spectacular coastal vistas, be sure to visit the islands of Hvar, Brac and Korčula and perhaps take a dip in their blue waters.
If natural beauty is what you’re after, the national parks of Plitvice and Krka won’t disappoint and are at their most spectacular in May, with waterfalls flowing with extra vigour from the spring rains. No trip to Croatia would be complete without a stop in Dubrovnik, either, and with quieter streets and clear skies, May is the ideal time to explore the city at your own pace.
Our recommended tour – Dubrovnik, Montenegro & the Dalmatian Coast
June - Scotland
When it comes to summer celebrations, there aren’t many spots in Europe better than the UK, and Scotland is a particular highlight. With longer days across the dramatic Highland landscapes and a calendar full of fascinating events, June is well-suited to a short break closer to home. In the far north, the Hebrides feature an abundance of alluring, lesser-known spots to be discovered and their ancient megalithic stone circles are never more enchanting than around the summer solstice.
Back on the mainland, June is also the ideal time to explore Edinburgh before the streets get busier for the Tattoo and the ever-popular Fringe Festival later in August. Though these events take centre stage, it’s often the nation’s natural beauty which is most memorable throughout June.
Our recommended tour – Hebridean Island Adventure
July - South Africa
July sits in the heart of South Africa's dry winter season, and for safari, that's exactly what you want. With sparser foliage across the bushveld, it’s easier to spot the local wildlife in their natural habitats. Be sure to set out in the early morning, when the temperatures are coolest to see the region’s big cats at their most active and visit the most popular watering holes for unrestricted views.
Given that midday temperatures are generally lower at this time of year, Kruger’s big cats are also at their most active in July, and you won’t need to wait until the evenings to watch them on the hunt. To the south, if you’re keen to explore the Garden Route, you’ll also enjoy the height of whale season, with hundreds of marine animals flocking to the Cape’s shores to calve.
Our recommended tour – Kruger Safari & the Garden Route
August – Italy
For a late-summer escape amongst some of the Mediterranean’s most enchanting landscapes, look no further than Northern Italy. Known for its wine regions, from Tuscany to the Veneto, this exquisite part of the world is especially scenic in the warm summer sun and makes for a truly memorable getaway. It’s not just the landscapes you travel through that’ll impress, and there’s ample opportunity to embrace the region’s colourful history and local traditions as you explore.
From soaking up Verona’s world-class Opera Festival in the city’s ancient Roman Arena to sampling the finest local wines on the shores of serene Lake Garda, there’s no shortage of highlights to enjoy in August.
Our recommended tour – Venice, Verona & the Wonders of Lake Garda
September - Uzbekistan
September offers the ideal introduction to Uzbekistan for first-time visitors, with mild temperatures and slightly quieter markets. That’s not to say that the iconic trading domes, rather the bustle of their assorted stalls, with fewer summer tourists, promises a more authentic experience. It’s not just the colourful, street-level buildings that’ll impress while sightseeing, the cities’ blue-tiled skylines are often even more picturesque in the softer autumn light.
From the Shah-i-Zinda necropolis to the mud-brick streets of Khiva's old town, Uzbekistan’s ancient heritage sights are wish-list musts, and in September, you’ll see them at their most atmospheric.
Our recommended tour – Uzbekistan – Ancient Cities of the Silk Road
October - Egypt
If you’d prefer to travel along a more well-travelled path, Egypt is an unforgettable option, and lends itself to a warm-weather October escape perfectly. While the summer heat tends to subside by the autumn, temperatures in North Africa remain warm and dry. With low humidity and clear skies, Egypt offers the ideal escape from the gloomier European weather and boasts a treasure chest of iconic sights to tick off your wish-list.
While the world-famous Giza Necropolis is a must-visit on any Egyptian itinerary, be sure to go beyond the guidebooks for the most immersive experience. Cairo’s colourful bazaars provide a memorable setting for an afternoon’s stroll, sound and light shows in Luxor bring the stories of Ancient Egypt to life and time spent on Kitchener Island showcases the beauty of the Nile. Whether you’re a history buff or are here for the warmer weather, Egypt deserves a place on your travel wish-list in October.
Our recommended tour – Cairo, Luxor & Nile Cruise
November - Japan
Though the country’s best known for its cherry blossoms, Japan’s lesser-appreciated autumnal colours are perhaps even more impressive and are at their most vivid in November. With maple trees shrouding the nation’s rural temples and vast mountain valleys in a sea of red and orange, koyo, Japan’s autumn season, rivals even New England’s famous fall colours. What’s more, as the year comes to an end, temperatures in Japan drop significantly from their summer highs, meaning even the busiest days of sightseeing are cool and comfortable.
For the best views of Japan’s fall foliage, Kyoto is a standout option, while the dramatic landscapes surrounding Hiroshima and Tokyo’s golden corridor are equally impressive. With insightful exploration and breathtaking sights abound, Japan is the ideal choice for a few final wish-list moments to complete 2027.
Our recommended tour – Japan Unveiled
December – Poland
Though we could have chosen any Central European destination for their Christmas festivities, Poland’s historic capital, Kraków, simply must be seen to be fully appreciated. The city’s central square, Rynek Główny, is impressive year-round but is elevated to another level as the celebrations start. With its handicraft stalls, comforting local delicacies, and delightful seasonal decorations, Krakow embodies Europe’s Christmas market tradition and is sure to lift your spirits ahead of the big day.
Elsewhere, the cosmopolitan capital, Warsaw, is a sight to behold decked in its festive finery, and the city’s Royal Route is a must-see for any visitors in December.
Look forward to next year’s travel story with Newmarket Holidays
Ready to start planning? If you’ve already got a dream destination in mind and aren’t sure when to go, or if you’re feeling inspired by some of the hotspots featured above, our friendly holiday planners are on hand to help. They’ll take the guesswork out of your holiday booking and can get the ball rolling on your next escape. If you have somewhere else in mind, you can also browse our full range of escorted tours, spanning six continents, on our dedicated destinations page.
