Top 20 sunny destinations to visit in January 2027

Guadalajara moves to the sound of mariachi and deep-rooted traditions. This authentic Jalisco city rewards curious travelers with monumental murals in baroque palaces, messy tortas ahogadas eaten with a spoon, and artisan districts where you can watch glassblowers at work. It feels less like a tourist trap than Cancun and more approachable than Mexico City, offering a direct window into the Mexican soul. Expect a city that keeps it real.

Wedged between turbulent oceans and a flat-topped mountain, Cape Town packs a lot into its borders. You will find postcard-perfect beaches with freezing water, historic townships, hillside vineyards, and penguins lounging on white sand. Dining here competes with major global capitals, and adventure waits at every turn, all for a reasonable price. Expect a mix of raw wilderness and relaxed cosmopolitan life under the Southern Hemisphere sun.

Dubai rose from the desert in just a few decades, pushing the boundaries of engineering. The Burj Khalifa stands at 828 meters, indoor ski slopes occupy shopping malls, and man-made islands reconfigure the coastline. Yet, behind the glass facades, the souks of the Creek and the red desert dunes reveal an Arab soul beneath the hyper-modernity. It is a destination that polarizes opinion, but it never fails to make an impression.

Bangkok is a sprawling metropolis of eight million people where centuries-old gold temples sit against futuristic skyscrapers. The scent of street food, which costs around 70 THB, fills the humid air as saffron-robed monks navigate past busy office workers. From the shimmering Grand Palace and the forty-six-meter Reclining Buddha to the smoky alleys of Chinatown and the high-rise rooftops of Silom, the city never stops. It is a capital where tradition and modernity collide twenty-four hours a day.

Agra offers much more than the iconic silhouette of the Taj Mahal. This former Mughal capital, set along the banks of the sacred Yamuna River, holds architectural heavyweights like the Red Fort, the tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah, and the sprawling city of Fatehpur Sikri. Beyond the postcard views, you will find a raw and authentic city where imperial history intersects with modern India in a stark, compelling contrast.

Tulum thrives on its contradictions. You have Mayan ruins perched over turquoise Caribbean water and cenotes so clear they feel surreal. Yet, rapid gentrification has turned this former fishing village into a hub for luxury yoga retreats and social media influencers. The real Mexico of late-night taquerias and dense jungle still exists, but you have to look past the hype to find the balance between the polished postcard and the raw reality.

As the former capital of the Khmer Empire, Siem Reap serves as your gateway to the massive Angkor archaeological complex and its jungle-swallowed temples. Beyond the ruins, this northwestern Cambodian city offers bustling local markets, a rising Khmer food scene, and stilted villages on the Tonlé Sap lake. With low daily costs for a modest guesthouse and meals, it remains a primary destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

As the primary port of Chile, Valparaíso is a city of distinct contrasts, tucked into a wide Pacific bay and framed by 45 steep hills known as Cerros. Founded in 1544 by Pedro de Valdivia, the city entered a golden age during the 19th century, drawing gold seekers, shipping magnates, and major banking institutions. A massive earthquake and the opening of the Panama Canal in 1914 eventually stifled this growth. Today, the city is a hub for students and artists, filled with street art, museums, cafes, and boutiques. Its historic center is even recognized as a Unesco World Heritage site.

The maritime heritage of Valparaíso

Located along the waterfront, the Barrio Puerto is the oldest district in the city. Sitting between the flatlands and the hills, you will find historical landmarks like the Iglesia de la Matriz. The Plaza Sotomayor, lined with official government buildings, serves as the institutional heart of Valparaíso. You can see the Monument to the Heroes of Iquique, which commemorates the naval battle of May 21, 1879. Housed in a mansion typical of the early 20th-century bourgeoisie, the Palacio Baburizza and its Museum of Fine Arts are another essential stop. Afterward, head to the Muelle Prat, a small pier where you can catch a boat for a tour of the bay.

A labyrinth of colorful hills

The atmosphere in Valparaíso is defined by the maze of hills overlooking the port, each acting as a neighborhood with its own distinct identity and local culture. These residential Cerros are served by fifteen funicular elevators. To really explore the corners of these colorful districts, walk the steep streets, which also gives you a front-row seat to the city's street art. The essential Cerros include Cerro Concepcion and Cerro Alegre, both packed with plazas, walkways, and viewpoints like the Mirador Yugoslavo and Paseo Gervasoni. Do not miss the Open-Air Museum of Valparaíso on Cerro Bellavista, a collection of murals inaugurated in 1992. Another highlight is the Paseo 21 de Mayo on Cerro Artilleria, which offers one of the best panoramas in the city. Near Cerro Carcel, the Parque Cultural de Valparaiso, built on the site of a former prison, is worth a visit for its exhibitions and expansive green spaces.

Other things to see in Valparaíso

Fans of the Chilean poet Pablo Neruda should visit his home on Cerro Bellavista, La Sebastiana. It holds a beautiful collection of art and period furniture. Down in the flatlands, take a walk through Plaza Victoria, a pleasant spot with large trees and fountains bordered by the cathedral. Near the port, visit the Mercado El Cardonal for an authentic local scene. You might also head over to the Paseo Muelle Barón, where you can often spot sea lions resting nearby.

When to go?

Valparaíso is most pleasant to visit during the southern summer, between December and April.

How to get there?

The city is easily accessible by bus from Santiago. You will arrive at the Terminal de Buses Rodoviario after a trip of about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

As the capital of Chile, Santiago is home to roughly 5 million people. The city was founded in 1541 during the colonial era by Pedro de Valdivia, centered on what is now the Plaza de Armas, the city's institutional heart. The population surged at the end of the 20th century as people moved from rural areas to the city seeking better opportunities. The metropolis is split by the Mapocho River, which is flanked by green spaces like Parque Forestal and the Parque de las Esculturas, where you can find 40 sculptures created by prominent Chilean artists.

Central Neighborhoods in Santiago

Start your walk at the city's main square, the Plaza de Armas. This is where you will find the Metropolitan Cathedral of Santiago, a neoclassical structure, alongside museums such as the Museo Histórico Nacional, which covers Chile's colonial and republican history. Nearby, the Museo de Arte Precolombino is essential for its collection of ceramics, sculptures, and textiles from various pre-Columbian cultures. Finally, do not miss the Palacio de la Moneda, the seat of the Chilean government, located just a few blocks away.

The Lastarria neighborhood, or the Fine Arts district, is another staple of the capital. After stopping by the Museum of Fine Arts, enjoy the energetic, colorful vibe around Cerro Santa Lucia, which frequently hosts local sports and cultural events.

San Cristobal Hill and Surroundings

To see Santiago from above, head to San Cristobal Hill, which encompasses the largest urban park in Chile, covering 722 hectares. It is accessible to everyone, and you can choose to hike up or take the funicular. At the summit, you will find a statue of the Virgin Mary, crafted in 1908 by Mathurin Moreau. Pope John Paul II held a mass here in 1987. The area around San Cristobal also includes a zoo and a botanical garden.

At the base of the hill, make time for the bohemian neighborhood of Bellavista, a hub for artists filled with street art, bars, and boutiques. Nearby, you will find La Chascona, one of the homes of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, which still displays his original furniture and decor.

For those looking to get even higher, head to the eastern side of the city to tackle the Gran Torre de Santiago. It is the tallest skyscraper in South America at 300 meters, offering an aerial view of the entire valley.

The Legacy of the Pinochet Dictatorship

If you want to understand the period of the Chilean dictatorship between 1973 and 1990, visit the Museum of Memory and Human Rights. The institution commemorates the 40,000 victims of the Pinochet regime and details the major political and military turning points of that era.

When to go

The best time to visit Santiago is from November through April.

How to get there

Fly into Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport.

How to get around

Once you are in the city, the metro and bus network is efficient and reliable, capable of taking you just about anywhere in the metropolitan area.

Abu Dhabi stays quieter than Dubai, but the capital of the United Arab Emirates offers plenty to justify a trip. Expect to spend your time at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Yas Island for the high-octane Ferrari World. This city blends coastal relaxation with desert excursions and futuristic architecture, making it a more laid-back alternative to its neighbor up the coast.

As the former royal capital, Mandalay serves as a major center for Buddhist culture and is Myanmar's second-largest city. You can explore the intricately carved teak of the Shwenandaw Monastery or visit the Kuthodaw and Mahamuni pagodas, which function as active pilgrimage sites. For a view over the city, climb Mandalay Hill at sunset. This region is famous for its jade market and traditional gold-leaf workshops. Nearby, the U Bein Bridge remains a major draw as the world's longest teak footbridge.

Set along the right bank of the Nile, Aswan marks Egypt's southern limit, functioning as a green sanctuary against the surrounding desert backdrop. As the ancient gateway to Nubia, its history is deeply tied to old trade routes and caravans carrying goods from sub-Saharan Africa. Travelers often treat it merely as a jumping-off point for the temples of Abu Simbel, yet the city itself possesses a striking charm defined by lush gardens, quiet river islands, and significant historical sites.

An Essential Souk

Getting your bearings in Aswan is straightforward, as the corniche runs alongside the Nile for miles, serving as the main hub for waterfront cafes and restaurants. Nicely maintained, it makes for a pleasant stroll while the city expands into the grid of streets behind it. The souk stands out as one of its most lively spots. Day and night, this covered market bustles with vendors where stalls overflow with Egyptian and African goods, ranging from perfumes and spices to textiles, handicrafts, incense, fruit, and fresh flowers. It is a prime area for bargaining, and along the edges, Nubian culture is on display through traditional items like talismans, handmade jewelry, and basketry. The entire area is a sensory mix of bright colors and heavy aromas. Aswan's signature local dish is stuffed pigeon, often prepared with rice, served on skewers, or simply grilled across local menus. Alongside molokhia, eggplant dishes, mezzes, tahini, and fresh river fish, the local food scene is hearty and pairs well with traditional Egyptian flatbread, fresh juices, and Nubian cardamom coffee.

Island Hopping

Directly across from downtown, Elephantine Island is a standout spot reached by hopping on a felucca, the traditional wooden sailboats that remain the most common way to get around the river in Aswan. Siou and Koti, two Nubian villages, sit nestled between agricultural plots and date palm groves here, featuring brightly painted houses where the pace of daily life slows to a crawl. You can tour the ruins of the Temple of Khnum, dedicated to the ram-headed deity, which features a well-known nilometer, an ancient stone staircase once used to measure the annual Nile flood levels. Carved colonnades with hieroglyphs complete the site, while views look out toward the elegant pink granite Aga Khan Mausoleum, built in 1959 atop the riverbank. A small museum dedicated to Nubian culture offers deeper context on local traditions and the community displacement caused by the construction of the Aswan High Dam, which you can also tour alongside the nearby Nilometer Museum.

The neighboring island feels entirely different, as Kitchener's Island holds the sprawling Botanical Garden established in 1896, where the river's humidity creates a startling contrast with the dry desert surrounding it. Plants, flowers, and trees from equatorial Africa, India, and tropical Asia form a lush canopy. The contrast against the arid sand on the opposite bank is sharp, providing a quiet habitat filled with birdsong.

Across on the west bank of the Nile, the Tombs of the Nobles cut into the cliffs via long burial ramps, offering panoramic views from the heights above. A bit further inland, the Monastery of Saint Simeon sits atop a plateau; it once housed 300 monks until its abandonment in 1321, and its eight-meter-high stone walls give it the look of a remarkably preserved fortress. Located just 2 km from Aswan, an ancient granite quarry holds the Unfinished Obelisk, carved around 1500 BCE before a fracture in the stone forced Queen Hatshepsut's architects to abandon it in place. Roughly ten kilometers away on Philae Island, the 4th-century BCE Temple of Isis stands as another major landmark, proving Aswan is a destination that easily warrants an extended stay.

When to Go

The climate is arid and dry, making December through February the most comfortable window due to mild temperatures, whereas June through September brings intense desert heat.

How to Get There

From Paris, travelers can find direct flights to Aswan International Airport, situated 20 km from the center, with local transit and taxis handling the final stretch. From Cairo, located 840 km to the north, visitors can take an overnight sleeper train, a bus, or a domestic flight lasting 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Set in the misty mountains of northern Thailand, this former capital of the Lanna Kingdom blends thousand-year-old gilded temples with the modern coffee shops favored by digital nomads. Over 300 Buddhist sanctuaries anchor a daily routine defined by monk processions and the scent of street food. Whether you are trekking to hidden waterfalls, visiting ethical elephant sanctuaries, or taking a local cooking class, the city offers a relaxed pace of life that hits different.

Luxor holds the highest concentration of ancient pharaonic ruins on the planet. You can walk through the massive temple complexes of Karnak and Luxor, explore the tombs in the Valley of the Kings, or visit the cliffside mortuary temple of Hatshepsut. Spanning both banks of the Nile, this former capital of ancient Egypt functions today as an open-air museum where three millennia of history appear around every corner.

Manila is a city of sharp contrasts. Some travel guides tell you to skip the Philippine capital entirely, arguing it is too gritty or chaotic for foreign visitors. Others call it the pearl of the Orient and insist its character is severely underrated. Here is why you should carve out time to explore Manila when you visit the Philippines.

Historic Churches and Insightful Museums

Traffic gridlock and pollution often overshadow Manila, but historic neighborhoods reward those who look closer. The colonial walled district known as Intramuros holds the city's finest architecture, including several centuries-old churches. Built in 1589, San Agustin Church is the oldest stone church in the country. Its earthquake-resistant baroque design has survived centuries of tectonic activity, earning it a UNESCO World Heritage listing. For a deep dive into national history, head to Fort Santiago, which houses a museum dedicated to José Rizal, the national hero. If you enjoy culture, check out the National Museum of Fine Arts and the Ayala Museum for exhibits on pre-hispanic Philippines. For something quirky, the Marikina Shoe Museum displays hundreds of pairs of shoes once owned by former First Lady Imelda Marcos.

A Cultural Melting Pot

The capital acts as a crossroads for many different peoples and ethnicities. A short distance away stands the Chinese Cemetery, established in 1843. It features elaborate mausoleums, tombs, and family crypts blending Chinese and Western architectural styles, from turtle-shaped markers to three-story concrete houses. Back in the city center, the energy ramps up in Chinatown. Filipinos, Chinese, and Spanish communities have mingled here for centuries, and founded in 1594, it ranks among the oldest Chinatowns in the world. Stop by local food stalls to try pancit (stir-fried noodles), empanadas, or lumpia (fresh or fried spring rolls).

Shopping and Rooftop Cocktails

Manila has fully embraced the twenty-first century with modern retail districts and creative arts venues like the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Just 5 km away, Makati serves as the modern financial hub, home to some of the largest shopping malls on the planet. Spending an evening at a rooftop cocktail bar in Makati is practically a requirement here, given the sheer number of stylish lounges overlooking the skyline.

When to go

You can visit Manila year-round, but the most comfortable weather runs from December to February. Summer brings heavy downpours and intense heat and humidity.

How to get there

Flights from major US hubs typically connect through a Middle Eastern or Asian hub, with total travel times averaging 16 to 17 hours depending on your departure city.

Once a quiet Maya port, Playa del Carmen is now a cosmopolitan beach town defined by its high-energy Quinta Avenida, turquoise cenotes, and a central location on the Riviera Maya. You can easily bounce between affordable street-side taquerias where tacos run 20-40 MXN and upscale beach clubs, or use the city as a base to explore the ruins at Tulum and the reefs off Cozumel. Just be aware that sargassum seaweed frequently washes up on the beaches during the summer months.

In southern Egypt, Abu Simbel could have stayed a sleepy outpost known mainly to freight drivers for its proximity to the Sudanese border. Instead, ancient Nubia left two priceless treasures hidden beneath the sand: the grand Temple of Ramses II and the Temple of Nefertari, discovered in 1813 and 1817 by Swiss and Italian explorers. Threatened by the rising waters of the Nile, they had to be moved by 160m in 1964. It took three and a half years and 3000 workers to clear and cut the blocks, a massive operation that captured global attention and forever changed the fate of a quiet regional town near Aswan. Sitting right on the edge of Lake Nasser, Abu Simbel now welcomes millions of travelers.

A peaceful haven

Its desert surroundings give Abu Simbel a distinct personality, and while exploring the archaeological ruins is the main event, staying at least one night is well worth it. Some hotels pay true tribute to Nubian culture, featuring typical architecture and decor with real charm. At small local eateries, you will find bold flavors in specialties like sesame tahina, babaghanouj eggplant dip, and of course foul, a hearty fava bean stew. Food lovers and the curious flock to mehallabeyya, a rosewater and pistachio cream pudding. Nubian coffee is said to be among the best anywhere, though hibiscus tea gives it a run for its money.

Aside from desert excursions, another major draw in Abu Simbel is Lake Nasser, a stunning body of water that feels almost like an ocean in the middle of the desert. Papyrus reeds line the shores where countless birds, including many herons, have made their home. It is a wonderfully quiet spot far from city noise, bathed in exceptional light. Along the banks, the Pharaoh stands guard over his lands like an immutable master.

Ramses II, massive and eternal

In a country packed with remarkable ancient sites, Abu Simbel ranks among the most striking. On the ancient sacred hills of Meha and Ibshek, Ramses II launched a colossal construction project at the start of his reign, in 1279 BC, and standing in front of it today is genuinely dizzying. The temples are carved directly into sandstone cliffs, with the larger one dedicated to several deities including the falcon-headed Re-Horakhty and, naturally, Ramses himself. The 33m facade features four statues towering around twenty meters high that leave zero doubt about who rules here. Wearing a kilt, the nemes headcloth, and a fake beard, the Pharaoh sits in full splendor. Inside, a hypostyle hall with mesmerizingly fine carvings and ten side rooms leads to the statue hall, where the figures are massive as well. The walls recount military victories, including the Battle of Kadesh and campaigns against the Hittites and Libyans. The genius of the builders who pulled off this outsized temple is hidden in a single detail: at each equinox in February and October, everything is engineered so a sunbeam slips inside to illuminate the statue of Ramses for his birthday.

Just a few steps away stands the temple dedicated to Nefertari, Ramses II's first and favorite wife, deified in the likeness of Hathor. It is a more intimate space featuring six 10m-tall statues on the facade, including four depicting the Pharaoh, alongside gorgeous bas-reliefs and sculptures of their children at their feet. The queen poses with her horned crown and tall plumes, exuding imperial beauty, while inside, texts and reliefs highlight the royal couple with surprising tenderness alongside various deities. In the evening, a sound and light show illuminates the site. Ramses II is gone, but he keeps on reigning and fascinating.

When to go

The hot season runs from May to October, bringing dry, arid, and sometimes blistering weather. January is the coolest month, and if you prefer to avoid intense heat, the period between February and April is ideal. To dodge the crowds, visiting the temples early in the morning is highly recommended.

How to get there

Most travelers fly via Cairo to Aswan to reach Abu Simbel, with Aswan located 280 km away. The road cuts straight through the desert, and buses handle the route, though some visitors prefer hiring a private driver. You can also book a cruise that stops at Abu Simbel. The town has its own airport, and the flight from Aswan takes 45 minutes.

As the largest island in southern Thailand, Ko Phuket or simply Phuket refers by extension to the island chain surrounding it. You can unwind in the shade of coconut palms before heading out to evening beach parties, take advantage of modern amenities at reasonable prices, and unwind in local spas. The list of outdoor activities runs long, from long-tail boat rides and mangrove kayaking to jungle hikes. The lush pearl of the Andaman Sea holds plenty of territory to explore. It also gives you a direct window into Thai culture, local food, and traditions.

The climate stays tropical year-round with two distinct seasons. Temperatures remain high throughout the year, and the rainy season brings daily showers lasting one to three hours between June and October.

Classic Beaches

The most visited stretches of sand are found at Patong, Karon, and Kata. These spots offer parasailing, jet-skis, shopping, and street food stalls at Malin Plazza Patong. After dark, night owls head to the bars along Bangla Road, while other travelers catch the cabaret shows at the Phuket Simon Cabaret or watch a Muay Thai match.

For a quieter atmosphere, head for the more secluded shores of Sai Kaew beach, Mai Khao beach, Nai Yang beach, s, Layan beach, Bang Tao beach, and Surin beach. Keep an eye out for strong currents that can make swimming risky.

At the southern end of Patong, Cristal Beach is a quiet cove featuring a small shoreline known as Paradise Bath. You reach it by walking 2.5 km past the Merlin Beach resort.

Travelers looking for total isolation head north to Ko Kho Kaho, known for its 15 km of undeveloped coastline at Nok Nah beach. Another solid option is Paradise Island near Ko Rang, departing from Ko Yao and close to Ko Hong, an island tied to local pirate history.

Lush Landscapes and Sunsets

Catch panoramic views over the bay of Nai Harn on the southwest tip of the island. Phrom Thep Cape translates to the cape of divine purity in Thai.

Take a motorized canoe out into Phang Nga Bay, where the towering limestone cliffs create a dramatic setting. Trips cost around 600 THB for 3 hours.

Kho Phi Phi, Phi Phi Ley, Coral Islands, and Ko Tao are known for white sand and clear water. Coral reefs here have suffered from heavy tourist traffic, leading to conservation efforts like the closure at Maya Bay, so check current access rules before you go.

Local Thai Culture

With its Sino-Portuguese architecture and pedestrian lanes, Phuket Town hosts three major events: the Vegetarian Festival in October, Chinese New Year in February, and Songkran, the Thai New Year, in April. On weekend evenings, the Naka Market brings out food vendors and local crafts.

Local families often spend Sundays picnicking or walking outdoors. The ironwood forest at Sirinat National Park provides a shaded spot, with the main entrance accessed via Thepkrasattri Road.

Perched on a green hill, the 45-meter white marble Big Buddha of Chalong is a recent landmark built by a local foundation, offering sweeping views from the top.

The Thalang National museum covers the history of southern Thailand, local migrations, and tin mining history. Exhibits also document the 2004 tsunami and the subsequent recovery efforts.

When to Go

The best window to visit Phuket runs from December to March when temperatures are manageable and the skies stay clear.

Getting There

Air France and Thai Airways International operate flights from Paris Roissy Charles de Gaulle to Bangkok, which takes 12 to 13 hours. From Bangkok, a connecting flight to Phuket takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Getting Around

The Phuket Town tourist office hands out schedules for local buses and minivans. Phuket bus terminal 1 connects the main short-distance points of interest, and the state-run 999 bus line is reliable. Renting a scooter costs around 300 THB per day on roads that are generally well-paved. Police checkpoints are common, and riding without an international driving permit results in fines around 1000 THB ($35*).

Havana is a city you experience with your senses. It is the sound of a bolero drifting from a courtyard, the sight of a pink Cadillac cruising past a peeling turquoise facade, and the warmth of a conversation started along the Malecón at dusk. More than just a destination, it is a trip into another era. It is an intense experience where beauty emerges from the wear of time, leaving a lasting impression on every traveler.

Cartagena ranks as a top destination in Colombia, defined by its preserved colonial architecture and Caribbean rhythm. The UNESCO-listed Old Town is enclosed by massive Spanish fortifications that tell a history of colonial struggle. You will find narrow, brightly painted streets, local markets, and neighborhoods where music spills out of every doorway. Nearby island beaches provide a quick escape, offering white sand and turquoise water just a short boat ride from the city center.