A month-by-month guide of 2025’s top destinations has been revealed, with over half of UK travellers now booking holidays three to six months in advance
As 2025 kicks off, it’s prime time for folks to start mapping out their holiday plans for the year. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy couple’s retreat or an action-packed family adventure, there’s a world of choices waiting for you.
Travel gurus have just dropped a month-by-month breakdown of the hottest spots to hit in 2025, no matter what kind of trip you’re aiming for.
Whether you’re looking for sunny locales or cities steeped with ancient history, there’s a place for you on this list. One recent trend includes travelers looking to stay in castles to live out their medieval fantasies.
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This timely travel guide lands as more than half of vacationers are getting ahead of the game, locking in trips three to six months early, with some even wrapping up their whole year’s itinerary by January.
Gavin Lapidus, founder of vacation company eShores, shared: “January offers the year’s best window for holiday planning.”
According to the Express, he notes a trend towards snapping up vacations sooner, saying: “We’re seeing a significant shift towards early bookings, with travelers securing better rates and prime accommodation before peak season demand drives prices up.”
Here’s the expert scoop on where to jet off to each month of 2025:
January: Valletta, Malta
The travel gurus at eShores suggest Malta’s capital, Valletta, as the ideal spot for a January escape. This UNESCO World Heritage city offers a cozy winter getaway with temperatures around 59-62°F, fewer tourists, and direct flights from the US.
February: Essaouira, Morocco
While many travelers visiting Morocco choose the well-known cities of Marrakesh, Casablanca or Fez, eShores’ experts recommend instead visiting the relaxed coastal gem Essaouira. The city offers mild 64-68°F weather, fewer crowds, and a bohemian vibe, all at a lower price than the more traditional hotspots.
March: Seville, Spain
Seville is the perfect city to jet off to in March, which is the city’s stunning orange blossom season, with comfortable 68-75°F temperatures, fewer tourists than peak months, and quick, easy travel from the US.
April: Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia
Discover Europe’s hidden lake paradise at Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia in April. This UNESCO gem offers crystal waters and heritage charm. Expect mild 64-72°F weather at a fraction of Lake Como costs.
May: Puglia, Italy
Jet off to Puglia in May for the authentic Italian experience, with 72-79°F temperatures and beautiful coastal villages. Cheaper than the popular Amalfi coast, this stunning southern Italian region still delivers sun, sea, and delicious food.
June: Åland Islands, Finland
The Åland Islands are one of Scandinavia’s best-kept summer secrets and combine Nordic cuisine with island-hopping adventures. With balmy 75°F days and 60 inhabited islands, the Åland Islands are the perfect spot for those looking for a crowd-free destination.
July: Šibenik, Croatia
This summer, ditch the crowded streets of Dubrovnik and instead explore the historical city of Šibenik in Croatia. This coastal gem serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Krka National Park and boasts pleasant July temperatures around 80°F.
August: Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands, often referred to as Iceland’s less expensive, less populated counterpart, offer wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes. In August, these islands provide a cool escape from potential heatwaves with temperatures around 60°F.
September: Lofoten Islands, Norway
September ushers in a spectacular display of nature on the Lofoten Islands – days awash in Arctic autumn hues and nights lit up by the mesmerizing Northern Lights, all amidst comfortable temperatures of 60°F.
October: Zagori, Greece
As the mercury starts to fall, travel experts suggest spending a week or two in sunny Zagori. This Greek destination offers warm days with temperatures in the mid-60s to 70s°F, secluded mountain villages, enticing local cuisine, and epic hiking trails away from the island crowds.
November: Azores, Portugal
Escape the chilly winter weather by jetting off to the Azores in Portugal. This eco-tourism paradise offers mid-60°F temperatures across nine volcanic islands, where thermal springs meet Atlantic waves.
December: Sal, Cape Verde
For those seeking some sunshine during the Christmas season, Sal in Cape Verde provides a Caribbean alternative just six hours from the UK. Imagine pristine, white-sand beaches and 80°F days without the hefty price tag or jet lag of long-haul flights.
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