As 2025 begins, you’re probably thinking about planning your holidays for the year. Whether you’re after a romantic escape or a summer break with the family, there are countless options around the world.
From isolated Arctic islands to secret Mediterranean hideaways, travel experts have unveiled a month-by-month guide to 2025’s top destinations, whatever your holiday plans may be.
The release of this travel calendar comes at a vital time, with over half of UK travellers now booking holidays three to six months in advance, and some even planning their entire year’s travel by January.
Gavin Lapidus, the founder of bespoke holiday specialists eShores, commented: “January offers the year’s best window for holiday planning.
“We’re seeing a significant shift towards early bookings, with travellers securing better rates and prime accommodation before peak season demand drives prices up.”
Expert-recommended travel destinations for every month of 2025:
January: Valletta, Malta.
The experts at eShores suggest Malta’s capital city of Valletta, as the ideal location for a January getaway. This UNESCO World Heritage city offers a perfect winter escape with temperatures around 15-17C, minimal tourists, and direct flights from the UK.
February: Essaouira, Morocco
While many holidaymakers heading to Morocco tend to flock to the more well-known cities of Marrakesh, Casablanca or Fez, travel experts at eShores suggest instead exploring the relaxed coastal jewel of Essaouira. The city boasts mild 18-20C weather, fewer tourists, and a bohemian vibe, all for a lower cost than the more traditional hotspots.
March: Seville, Spain
Seville is the ideal destination for a March getaway, coinciding with the city’s beautiful orange blossom season. Expect comfortable 20-24C temperatures, fewer visitors than during peak months, and quick, straightforward travel from the UK.
April: Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia
Uncover Europe’s hidden lake paradise at Lake Ohrid, North Macedonia in April. This UNESCO treasure offers crystal-clear waters and heritage charm. Anticipate mild 18-22C weather at a fraction of the cost of Lake Como.
May: Puglia, Italy
Take off to Puglia in May for an authentic Italian experience, with 22-26C temperatures and picturesque coastal villages. More affordable than the popular Amalfi coast, this stunning southern Italian region still delivers sun, sea, and delicious cuisine.
June: Åland Islands, Finland
The Aland Islands are one of Scandinavia’s best-kept summer secrets, blending Nordic cuisine with island-hopping adventures. With warm 24C days and 60 inhabited islands, the Aland Islands are the perfect spot for those seeking a less crowded destination.
July: Šibenik, Croatia
This summer, bypass the bustling city of Dubrovnik and instead visit the historical Sibenik in Croatia. This coastal city serves as a gateway to the breathtaking Krka National Park and boasts pleasant July temperatures of around 28C.
August: Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands are often described as an affordable, less crowded alternative to Iceland, offering wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes. In August, these islands provide a cool retreat from potential heatwaves with temperatures around 15C.
September: Lofoten Islands, Norway
In September, the Lofoten Islands offer a double dose of nature’s beauty days adorned with Arctic autumn hues and nights lit up by the mesmerising Northern Lights, all alongside comfortable temperatures of 18C.
October: Zagori, Greece
As the temperature starts to fall, travel experts suggest spending a week or two in sunny Zagori. This Greek gem offers warm days with temperatures reaching mid-20C, secluded mountain villages, enticing local cuisine, and fantastic hiking trails away from the island crowds.
November: Azores, Portugal
Escape the chilly winter weather by heading to the Azores in Portugal. This eco-tourism paradise offers mid-20C temperatures across nine volcanic islands, where thermal springs meet Atlantic waves.
December: Sal, Cape Verde
For those seeking some sunshine over the Christmas period, Sal in Cape Verde provides a Caribbean alternative just six hours from the UK. Expect immaculate, white-sand beaches and 27C days without the hefty price tag or jet lag.