Top Getaways to Kick Off Your Year: Where to Travel in January

While January in Toronto often means grey skies and cold temperatures, it also presents a perfect opportunity for a fresh start and a new adventure. A new year is an invitation to explore, and a well-timed getaway can be the ideal way to recharge after the busy holiday season. Whether you are dreaming of a sunny beach, a snowy landscape, or a vibrant city, there are countless destinations at their best in January.

Getting your journey started from Toronto is simple and seamless with UP Express. We connect you directly from Union Station in the heart of downtown to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in just 28 minutes. Our reliable service ensures you arrive at the airport relaxed and ready for your flight, without the stress of traffic or unpredictable travel times. Not located downtown? You can also conveniently board UP Express from our UP Bloor, Weston, and Mount Dennis stations.

As the official airline of UP Express, Porter Airlines offers flights from Pearson Airport to an ever-expanding network of destinations. This partnership makes planning your escape easier than ever. And if you are embarking on a journey by yourself, many spots are great destinations for solo travellers.

Inexpensive January Vacations

A memorable trip does not have to come with a large price tag. January is one of the most affordable months for travel, as the post-holiday lull often brings lower prices for flights and accommodations. You do not need to travel across the globe to find a fantastic winter escape. Ontario and its neighbouring provinces offer a wealth of experiences, from charming towns to bustling cities, all easily accessible for a long weekend.

Looking for a getaway closer to home? You can always have a staycation right here in Toronto. Explore a new neighbourhood, visit a museum you have never been to, or take advantage of winter culinary events. Sometimes, the best trip is the one that allows you to see your own city in a new light. And with a few smart strategies, you can find the best travel deals for any destination you choose. 

While Niagara Falls, Ontario, is famous as a summer destination, it takes on a mesmerizing persona in winter. The mist from the falls freezes to create striking icy vistas, and the annual Winter Festival of Lights often continues into January, bathing the area in millions of twinkling lights. Visiting during this quieter, more serene time lets you appreciate the falls’ power and beauty from a whole new perspective. Even better, you can visit Niagara Falls for a day trip from Toronto! 

Collingwood, Ontario, just a couple of hours north of Toronto, transforms into a winter wonderland in January. It is home to Blue Mountain Resort, renowned for its skiing and snowboarding, but there is much more to discover. The charming downtown area features unique shops and inviting restaurants, and the Scandinave Spa in Blue Mountain offers a calming retreat after a day outdoors. Activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and skating on the Woodview Mountaintop Skating trail add to Collingwood’s appeal as a perfect local getaway. 

In Québec City, Québec, you can step into a real-life fairy tale. The UNESCO-listed Old Town takes on a magical atmosphere under a blanket of snow, making its cobblestone streets, Place Royale, and the iconic Château Frontenac even more captivating. January marks the city’s preparations for the renowned Winter Carnival, filling the air with festive excitement. Warm up with classic Québécois dishes like poutine and tourtière at local eateries after a day of exploring.

Finally, for a more bustling urban winter experience, Montréal offers vibrant energy even during the colder months. You can enjoy skating at the Old Port, explore the extensive underground city (RESO) to avoid the chill, or take in world-class art at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. With a storied culinary scene ranging from signature bagels to innovative fine dining, Montréal seamlessly blends history, culture, and excitement. 

Hot Places to Go in January

If your primary goal for a January vacation is to trade snow boots for sandals, you are in luck. It is the peak season for many tropical destinations, offering endless sunshine, warm waters, and a much-needed dose of Vitamin D.

Hawaii is a dream destination in January, with its warm, sunny weather, minimal rainfall, and spectacular whale watching opportunities as humpback whales gather in the islands’ welcoming waters. Each Hawaiian island has its own charm, from the volcanic wonders of the Big Island to Oahu’s legendary surf and the lush scenery of Kauai.

For travellers seeking a Caribbean escape, Barbados stands out as an ideal choice this month. The island is celebrated for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and an unmistakably welcoming culture. In January, the weather is sublime, making it the perfect time to relax on beaches like Crane Beach, snorkel with sea turtles, or enjoy lively streets filled with calypso music and Bajan cuisine.

The Dominican Republic is also an excellent destination, offering all-inclusive resorts, pristine beaches, and a wealth of history. The dry and sunny January climate sets the stage for relaxing in Punta Cana or discovering colonial Santo Domingo, the oldest European city in the Americas.

Those with a sense of adventure should consider Costa Rica, where January’s dry season invites visitors to explore breathtaking rainforests, active volcanoes, and vibrant wildlife. Whether it’s zip-lining through the Monteverde cloud forests, observing sloths and monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park, or learning to surf on the Pacific shores, Costa Rica delivers.

Across these destinations, January transforms a winter escape into an experience filled with sun, relaxation, and lasting memories.

Best Places to Go in Europe in January

While much of Europe is in the depths of winter, several regions offer unique and appealing experiences in January. You can find everything from pleasant, mild weather to the magic of a true Nordic winter.

If you are seeking sunshine without a long-haul flight to the tropics, Spain’s Canary Islands are a wonderful option. Located off the coast of northwestern Africa, this archipelago enjoys mild, spring-like weather year-round, making January perfect for hiking the volcanic landscapes of Tenerife, relaxing on the sandy dunes of Gran Canaria, or exploring the unique sites of Lanzarote.

Mainland Spain, especially the southern region of Andalusia, is also appealing in January, with cities like Seville, Granada, and Córdoba offering mild, often sunny weather. The low season allows for easy exploration of landmarks such as the Alhambra in Granada or the Alcázar of Seville, with far fewer crowds than in warmer months. Tapas, rich history, and Moorish architecture create a vibrant atmosphere for winter travellers.

For those who want to embrace the chill, Iceland promises a magical adventure with dramatic winter landscapes and the chance to see the Aurora Borealis. Short days provide the ideal backdrop for viewing the Northern Lights, exploring ice caves, bathing in the Blue Lagoon’s geothermal waters, and witnessing frozen waterfalls and glaciers.

Alternatively, Swedish Lapland offers another unforgettable Northern Lights experience, deep in the Arctic Circle. Visitors can stay at the renowned ICEHOTEL, try dog sledding through pristine snowy forests, learn about indigenous Sámi culture, and soak up the quiet beauty of this winter wonderland.

Best Country to go to in January

For a truly epic start to the year, a long-haul trip to the Southern Hemisphere can be incredibly rewarding. While we are shivering in Canada, these countries are enjoying the peak of their summer season.

Australia and New Zealand offer the perfect antidote to winter’s chill, providing travellers with a vibrant taste of summer during January. In Australia, it is an ideal time for beach-hopping in Sydney, soaking up the lively cultural energy in Melbourne, or embarking on a scenic drive along the spectacular Great Ocean Road. The country buzzes with warmth and excitement, making every day an invitation to explore. Just across the Tasman Sea, New Zealand is also in its prime. Imagine hiking the impressive Tongariro Alpine Crossing, marvelling at the majestic fiords of Milford Sound, or enjoying adrenaline-filled adventures in Queenstown. With long, sunny days and breathtakingly diverse landscapes, both countries provide endless opportunities for discovery and relaxation.

For those looking to head to Southeast Asia, Thailand is one of the best choices in January. The country enters the peak of its dry season, delivering comfortable temperatures and abundant sunshine. Whether you are uncovering the vibrant markets and grand temples of Bangkok, venturing north to visit elephant sanctuaries around Chiang Mai, or retreating to the world-famous beaches of Phuket and Koh Samui, Thailand’s blend of incredible food, rich culture, and dazzling scenery guarantees an unforgettable escape.

Results Are In: Best Places to Go in January

After considering all the options, it is clear that warm destinations are a top choice for a January escape. January is not only one of the cheapest times to travel, but it is also one of the most rewarding. It offers the perfect opportunity for a proper break after the holidays, and what better way to do that than by soaking up the sunshine on a beautiful beach? A trip to a warm climate can help you reset your body and mind, providing the energy and optimism to take on the new year.

No matter where your January travels take you, your journey begins and ends with a smooth and comfortable trip to the airport. Let UP Express handle the first and last leg of your trip, so you can start your vacation from the moment you leave the city. For more travel ideas, check out our guide to 2025’s top travel destinations to relax and recharge.