Your tolerance for rain could be one factor determining the best time of year to visit Wales, as the climate is temperate and frequently wet. Despite this, Wales can be a delight to see in any season, each of which showcases the country's rugged beauty and cultural appeals in a unique way. Read on to find out more about the best time of year to visit Wales.
The United Kingdom's four distinct seasons each hold unique appeal. Still, the best times to visit are late spring (May) and early fall (September), when mild weather, long daylight hours, and lighter crowds create ideal conditions for city wanders, countryside rambles, and coastal exploring. Summer (June to August) brings warmth and festival energy but also peak prices and congestion, while winter (December to February) is colder and darker, yet perfect for cozy pubs, Christmas markets, and quiet sightseeing.
Located in Latvia's northeast, the vast Gauja National Park is home to winding rivers, sandstone cliffs, and dense unspoiled forests. On this active week-long itinerary, you'll explore the enchanting capital of Riga before heading into the wilds of the park for a series of unforgettable hikes. In between, you'll explore the medieval gem of Cesis, visit the perfectly preserved 19th-century village of Ligatne, and finish your adventure on the windswept shores of the Baltic Sea.
There's a lot to see in Sri Lanka—two weeks will allow you enough time to explore all the island's top sights or even travel to other countries in the surrounding area. However, you can still enjoy Sri Lanka in a shorter time frame. Five days is long enough to see the highlights or spend some time relaxing on the beach, while with seven days, you can go deeper and experience multiple regions.
Home to ancient pine forests, tranquil rivers, and hundreds of interconnected lakes, Lithuania's Aukstaitija National Park is a paradise for kayakers. On this week-long adventure, you'll get your bearings in the capital of Vilnius before heading to Trakai for an afternoon of paddling around its spectacular island castle. Then it's on to the country's oldest national park, where you'll spend four days kayaking through crystal clear waters and discovering a land of riverside villages, grassy islets, and unspoiled nature.
True, most colloquial Scottish terms for the climate refer to fickle—and mostly "dreich" (dreary)—weather, despite which the sun shines more than you may imagine: palm trees even grow on the west coast, sustained by warm Gulf Stream waters and air. Scotland frequently defies its stereotypes and can be sublime in any season, each uniquely showcasing the country's rugged beauty. So don't let the Scots' talk about the weather put you off.
Discover the adventurous sides of Latvia and Lithuania on this 13-day journey through two of Europe's hidden gems. Setting out from the bustling capital of Riga, you'll tour romantic medieval towns, immerse yourself in unspoiled Baltic landscapes, and embark on a series of unforgettable outdoor excursions. Explore the biodiverse boglands of Kemeri National Park, cycle along the beaches of the Curonian Spit, kayak past castles on Lake Galve, and end your journey amongst the Baroque grandeur of Vilnius.
Discover the rich culture and biodiversity of Papua on this rugged, 12-day adventure. Get to know the Dani tribe people as you're welcomed into remote villages and embark on short, scenic hikes to the highlands and rivers of the Wamena Valley. Set out on a multi-day trek through the jungle, exploring your lush environs, camping under the stars, and celebrating at a local Dani Pig Festival. Then transfer to Nimbokrang for the island's birds of paradise, ending with a scenic boat trip across Lake Sentani.
Located just an hour's flight east of Bali, the "forgotten island" of Sumba remains one of Indonesia's best-kept secrets. On this laid-back, 10-day itinerary, you'll explore the island's secluded beaches, turquoise waterfalls, and lush jungles at a relaxed pace. Along the way, visit historic Sumbanese thatched villages, learn about the local Marapu culture, and watch locals create their famed ikat textiles.
Driving South Africa's famed Garden Route is suitable in any season; though there is always a chance of rain, it's never enough to discourage a road trip or adventure outdoors. Let your interests determine when you hit the road. If you want to see whales, come in the winter, spring for the wildflowers, summer for the beaches, and fall for hiking. Awaiting exploration at any time, the Garden Route offers something for everyone.
When plotting your grand adventure in Vietnam, try to visit both the north and south, as this country packs a lot into a relatively small size. It's possible to see both regions in just a few days, but the longer you have, the more excursions you can take, like boat tours, mountain hikes, and visits to ethnic villages. And if time isn't an issue, add in trips to the central coast, northern bays, scenic river deltas, and more.
Known as the "Jewel of Indonesia," Flores boasts lush mountains, volcanic lakes, and stunning pink beaches—with none of the crowds of nearby Bali. Hike, swim, and snorkel your way around the island on this eight-day expedition, discovering the rich culture of the local people along the way. As your trip nears its end, it's time to board a short cruise through the neighboring Komodo Archipelago, where you'll hop between remote islands and come face to face with Komodo dragons and manta rays.
From the orangutan forests of Sumatra to the ancient temples of Java and the pink beaches of Lombok, this 16-day itinerary introduces you to three of Indonesia's most beguiling islands. The trip starts out with an adventurous slant, as you trek through dense jungles, climb to dramatic waterfalls, and ascend volcanic peaks by Jeep. Then it's time to wind down with a week of laidback sun, sand, and snorkeling on the idyllic shores of Lombok.
Whether you're on a family trip or traveling solo, like beach holidays or mountain excursions, there's the perfect holiday to suit your interests in the Dominican Republic. Seven days is all you need to do it all, from island excursions to snorkeling trips to waterfall hikes and buggy rides on the beach. You can also embark on horseback excursions through tobacco country, river rafting adventures, and walking tours of historic Santo Domingo.
Enjoy the family trip of a lifetime over seven days on the Dominican Republic's south coast. You'll do it all, from snorkeling around offshore islands to visiting mysterious caves to off-roading around some of the most stunning white-sand beaches in the Caribbean. You'll also get active on a bicycle tour of Santo Domingo's historic sights, go starfish spotting in natural pools, and even spend time with playful squirrel monkeys.
In as few as five days, you can experience authentic Thai culture on a trip to the southern bays or trekking around the villages in the country's north. With a week, there's enough time to go on an immersive tour of Chiang Mai or hit the trails on a multi-day hike of the northern mountains and rice paddies. And with 10 or 12 days, you can embark on a grand tour that includes Bangkok, the northern temples, and the sun-kissed southern beaches.
This two-week adventure combines the best of Bali with an unforgettable detour through the wild Komodo Archipelago. Starting on the "Island of the Gods," you'll hike to waterfalls, canoe to Balinese temples, meet the monkeys of Sangeh, and sample mouthwatering street food from local markets. Then it's off to the island of Flores to set sail on a two-night cruise through the stunning Komodo National Park. Snorkel with manta rays and spot Komodo dragons in their natural habitat, then head back to Bali to end your adventure soaking up some sun on the breathtaking beaches of the Bukit Peninsula.
Perfect for active travelers, this 8-day itinerary combines Cambodia's most iconic highlights with memorable off the beaten path excursions. Start in Siem Reap, where you'll trek through the little-seen trails and temples of Angkor and hike to the sacred peak of Phnom Kulen. After a visit to the floating villages of Tonle Sap, it's on to the capital of Phnom Penh to discover the sobering history and bright future of the "Pearl of Asia."
In two weeks you can travel the whole of Guatemala and enjoy its greatest attractions, both natural and manufactured. Combine nature and culture with walks around Spanish colonial Antigua, boat rides on Lake Atitlán, hikes to volcano peaks, and tours of ancient Maya ruins. For more indigenous history, visit Tikal National Park, followed by a jaunt to the Caribbean to neighboring Belize. And if you want to test your endurance, opt for a multi-day mountain-biking adventure or volcano circuit hike.
Escape to paradise on this immersive eight-day exploration of Indonesia's most popular island. Focused on Bali's southern districts, you'll hop between the cultural center of Ubud, the lush rice fields of Sideman, and the breathtaking beaches of the Bukit Peninsula. Along the way, try your hand at Balinese cooking, explore the volcanic Mount Bakur by vintage VW, and meet the monkeys of the clifftop temple of Pura Luhur Uluwatu.
This packed seven-day itinerary will take you to some of the most beautiful and remote locales in the Dominican. It includes relaxing on white-sand beaches, hiking through national parks, visiting remote farming villages, and experiencing hidden gems most tourists never see. You'll also spot plenty of wildlife throughout the adventure, from iguanas and exotic birds to crocodiles and pink flamingos.
In 10 days, you can visit many regions of Guatemala, embark on active tours, and see the major highlights. It's also enough time to enjoy off-the-beaten-path trips to indigenous villages, coffee plantations, and natural wonders hidden in highland rainforests. Beyond visiting ancient Maya ruins and taking boat rides down jade rivers, you can also embark on multi-day mountain biking tours and hikes to volcano peaks.
While many itineraries through the vast country of Argentina focus on highlights of the north or south, this exciting 14-day adventure takes you to both! You'll start with sightseeing in the capital city of Buenos Aires, then catch a flight to Puerto Iguazú for a full day of hiking around the magnificent Iguazú Falls. Transfer to the famous wine region of Mendoza next, where you'll tour wineries and take a cooking class. Spend a few days exploring the indigenous history and otherworldly landscapes around Salta and Jujuy before heading south to Patagonia for glacier treks and unforgettable mountain hikes around El Calafate and El Chaltén.
With a week in Guatemala, you can experience the best of multiple regions. Tour Antigua, Lake Atitlán, and visit Tikal National Park, all in one trip. Or test your physical endurance on hikes up not one but three different volcanoes. Moreover, you can embark on a combined Belize-Guatemala trip that includes diving around coral islands and seeing ancient Maya ruins on horseback in seven days.
Even with just five days, you can visit some of the highlight destinations in Guatemala. Explore ancient Maya ruins at Tikal, hike up sheer volcano slopes in the highlands, and discover the rich history of colonial Antigua on a walking tour. Or, if you're looking to go off the beaten path, head deep into coffee country and visit nature reserves home to the country's most exotic wildlife.
Patagonia's massive glaciers, unspoiled forests, icy lakes, and rushing rivers make it one of the most attractive destinations in the world for outdoor adventurers. On this 17-day itinerary, you'll discover the region's incredible landscapes on an array of guided tours and independent excursions. Get up close to glaciers, trek and sleep in a tent in Torres del Paine National Park, boat along the Beagle Channel, and see penguins swim and play on an island in Tierra del Fuego. All of this and more awaits travelers on this once-in-a-lifetime journey!
This intrepid, two-week adventure starts deep in the jungles of Indonesian Borneo, discovering the distinctive culture and traditions of its Dayak people. After some time in the ancient village of Tumbang Malahoi, board a three-day river cruise to venture further into the biodiverse hinterland and see endangered orangutans. Then it's time to trade the jungle for the beach as you fly east to the stunning Derawan Islands for a week of snorkeling, sunbathing, and shark-watching in a postcard-perfect island paradise.
This thrilling 15-day itinerary takes you to the highlights of Patagonia for outdoor adventures in both Argentina and Chile. You'll start on the Argentinian side, getting up close to the Perito Moreno glacier in El Calafate before taking a scenic drive to El Chaltén for hiking and climbing. Then you'll cross over to Chile for four days of trekking on the famous W circuit of Torres del Paine National Park. Finally, you'll head back to Argentina to explore Tierra del Fuego National Park, cruise down the Beagle Channel, spot penguins in the wild, and dine on freshly caught seafood in Ushuaia.
Get ready for seven days of highlight tours and off-the-beaten-path adventures in the Dominican Republic. In Santo Domingo, you'll tour the historic streets of the oldest city in the Americas, followed by horseback riding and river rafting in the highlands. Then, after lazing on sun-kissed beaches on the north coast, you'll hike to romantic waterfalls and soar over the treetops on a zip-line ride you'll never forget.
This 14-day journey to Patagonia begins in Buenos Aires, then quickly moves to El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park. After marveling at the Perito Moreno Glacier, you'll take the scenic route to El Chaltén for a full day of self-guided hiking. Cross the border to Chile to access Torres del Paine National Park. You'll spend four days hiking the famous W Trek before circling back to Argentina, where you'll spend the end of the trip exploring Tierra del Fuego and Ushuaia, the world's southernmost city.
This great escape to the north coast of the Dominican Republic packs a lot of adventure in just seven days. Around the city of Puerto Plata, you'll explore colonial history, laze on white-sand beaches, and hike to romantic waterfalls. Then, on the unspoiled Semaná Peninsula, you'll embark on quad adventures, trips to hidden beaches, and discover the best snorkeling spots along the coast and offshore islands.
This 8-day, small-group tour takes you hiking and island hopping against the spectacular backdrop of Croatia's Adriatic coast. Starting in Zagreb, make your way through Plitvice Lakes National Park and the Velebit Mountains to reach the glittering Adriatic. Skipping between the islands of Krk, Cres, and Lošinj, you'll embark on a series of half-day hikes—discovering a magical landscape of secluded fishing villages, rocky peaks, and hidden beaches along the way.
Discover a microcosm of cultures and some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes on this 8-day exploration of Nepal's Kathmandu and Pokhara Valleys. With a laid-back blend of popular highlights and offbeat experiences, it's a perfect itinerary for first-timers to the country. Explore the temples and shrines of Kathmandu, take in postcard-worthy Himalaya views from the peaceful mountain town of Nagarkot, and embrace your adventurous side with some scenic paragliding in Pokhara.
Steeped in history, Germany is a beautiful year-round destination that melds cutting-edge cities, outdoor adventures, and distinct festivals celebrating everything from ski jumping to classical composers. Winter is best for minimal crowds, while the summer months—along with Oktoberfest and Christkindlmarkt—are major draws. Then, there are the two reliable shoulder seasons with mild temperatures and off-peak prices for exploring everything from spas in the Black Forest to dunes on the Baltic Sea.
Discover Zimbabwe's natural wonders in luxurious style on this romantic, weeklong adventure. Your first three nights are spent in an elegant lodge near Victoria Falls, where you can hike to dizzying views over the rushing waters, walk with elephants, and raft down the mighty Zambezi. Then it's on to the wildlife haven of Hwange National Park, where you'll search for the "Big Five" on game drives and fall asleep to the sound of the savannah at your luxury safari camp.
Enjoy 10 event-filled days traveling around England's scenic south. In London, you'll visit Buckingham and Kensington Palace, followed by tours of Windsor Castle and Eton College. Then head on a road trip through fairytale Cotswolds villages and a stop at Bath's ancient Roman ruins. Throughout this refined adventure, you'll enjoy picnics at Oxford and take high tea at the Savoy Hotel and opulent Blenheim Palace.
Adventure-seekers with only five days to spare can visit a couple of Patagonia's most famous lakes and mountains. In a week, you can venture deep into national parks for circuit treks around towering peaks and ancient glaciers. And 10 or 14 days are perfect for enjoying a best-of-Patagonia adventure that includes highlights like El Calafate, Los Glaciares National Park, Mount Fitz Roy, and hiking in Tierra del Fuego.
Check off Israel's most important cultural and historic sites in one trip with this comprehensive 12-day itinerary. Traveling from the Mediterranean beaches of Tel Aviv to the ancient streets of Old Jerusalem to the shores of the Sea of Galilee, you'll explore a bevy of highlights and hidden wonders in between. Look out over the Dead Sea from the clifftop ruins of Masada, take a journey through history on an off-road tour of the Golan Heights, and stroll through colorful market stalls in the UNESCO-listed port of Acre.
Located in the far reaches of South America, Patagonia is famous for its breathtaking natural scenery. Take your time exploring both the Argentinian and Chilean sides on this 16-day adventure around the region. First you'll get oriented in Buenos Aires, attending a tango show and day-tripping to the river delta of Tigre. Then continue to the renowned wine-growing region of Mendoza to sip and swirl Malbec on a winery tour. The trip takes you to Patagonia next, where you'll spend the bulk of the trip trekking on glaciers, hiking the legendary W circuit in Torres del Paine National Park, and horseback riding or kayaking outside El Calafate.
This week-long safari adventure introduces you to northern Zimbabwe, renowned for its plentiful national parks and diverse wildlife. Start in Hwange, the country's largest natural reserve and one of the few areas you can see the "Big Five" (lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo) in one place. Then it's on to the shores of Lake Kariba, where evenings are spent watching hippos, crocodiles, and remarkable birdlife gather at the water's edge.
Boat past glaciers, tour vineyards with views of the Andes, and hike in South America's best national park on this 14-day adventure through Argentina and Chile. You'll start with a couple of days in Buenos Aires before you take off to discover two incredibly beautiful regions of Argentina — the famed wine country of Mendoza and El Calafate, the gateway to the spectacular Los Glaciares National Park. Then cross the border to Chile to discover the ruggedly beautiful Torres del Paine National Park, where you'll embark on one of the most rewarding mountain treks in the world, the W circuit.
Snow starts to fall in earnest in Switzerland in December, and with it are the tourists who flock to the mountain ski resorts. There are also charming markets held in various cities in the lead-up to Christmas. Whether you're interested in outdoor or city attractions, December's a great time to visit Switzerland. Read on to learn more.
November is the final month of fall in Switzerland, and temperatures are generally cold. Conditions are not yet ripe for skiing, but this month is still an excellent time to visit Switzerland's cities for cultural attractions and to make the most of their proximity to the mountains if the weather's fine. Find out more about where to go and what to do in Switzerland in November.
October is fall in Switzerland and the low season for travel, between the peaks of summer and winter. The weather may be pleasant and sunny or damp and dull, so it makes sense to base yourself in one of Switzerland's beautiful cities if you're visiting in October. Read on for more about traveling to Switzerland in October.
September is the start of fall in Switzerland and the beginning of the low season for tourism. But with still-summery weather in many places, great conditions for outdoor activities, the grape harvest for winemaking, and lighter tourist crowds, September is a great month to visit Switzerland. Find out where to go and what to do in Switzerland in September.
August is midsummer in Switzerland and the peak season for tourism. Visitors flock to the Alps to enjoy the cooler weather and spectacular mountain scenery that's mostly free of snow. As well as hiking, travelers can admire the landscape while paragliding, cruising on a lake, riding a cable car or train, and more. Keep reading to learn about visiting Switzerland in August.
July is midsummer in Switzerland, and temperatures can soar in lower-lying areas, making the mountains idyllic for a range of activities. Hike on trails free of snow or take in the views from above on a cable car or from a paraglider. Read on to find out where to go and what to do in Switzerland in July.
Along with winter, summer is the peak season for travel to Switzerland, and for many good reasons: the weather is mild or warm, the mountain hiking trails are open, and cities hold lively festivals. There are also, however, many other travelers around. Find out more about where to go and what to see if you visit Switzerland in June.
May is spring in Switzerland, a relatively short season but one with lovely weather and few tourists. Come to Switzerland in May to hike in the mountains or take a scenic train ride before the heavy crowds of summer. Read on to discover more about traveling to Switzerland in May.
April is spring in Switzerland and the low season between the height of winter and summer. But with pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, April is a great time to visit. Ride a mountain railway, stroll around a lake in the shadow of mountains, and hike on newly thawed trails. Read on to discover more about traveling to Switzerland in April.
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