Wanderlust calls strongly to us in January, and with holiday entitlement at its maximum (and maybe a few days carried over), now’s the time to look at exploring places to go on holiday this year.
Here’s our selection of the best destinations in the world to travel to in 2016, so you can get planning.
1. USA, National Parks
El Capitan and Merced River in the autumn at Yosemite National Park
The 2016 vibe
This year the USA celebrates 100 Years of National Parks, and rightly so: it’s got 400 parks and 84 million acres of stunning scenery.
The Grand Canyon National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be combined with a trip to party paradise, Las Vegas.
Or head down to Miami or Orlando in Florida, and visit the Everglades. Located just an hour from Miami, its diverse tropical climate makes for excellent wildlife spotting, including crocodiles, alligators and panthers.
California’s Yosemite National Park is 95% wilderness. Home to El Capitan, the tallest monolith in the world made from granite, and the highest waterfall in North America – Yosemite Falls, it’s a top rock climbing destination.
When to visit
Special events: National Park Week runs from April 18 to April 26, with free events taking place across the country.
While EURO 2016 is happening in France, the USA will be hosting the Copa America tournament for the first time ever in the competitions centenary year in June.
Ten US cities will be showing games, including Orlando, Seattle and New York.
The student party season of Spring Break takes place around the end of February through to April, with Florida a major destination. The USA also makes a splash worth seeing around Halloween (Oct 31st) and Thanksgiving (end of Nov).
Weather: Florida tends to be warm all-year-round, peaking between May and September (very hot, but also rainy). For California or Nevada, try September and October for the optimal off-peak temperature.
South Beach, Miami
Essential information
Approximate flight times from London: Orlando: 8.5 hours, San Francisco: 10.5 hours, Las Vegas: 10 hours 15 mins
Currency: US Dollar
Latest flights to Orlando
Latest flights to San Francisco
Latest flights to Las Vegas
2. Shanghai, China
The Pudong skyline in Shanghai
The 2016 vibe
The new Shanghai Disney Resort is scheduled to open in spring 2016. The first Disney park to be opened in mainland China, two special attractions have been created for Shanghai – the Star Wars Launch Bay and Marvel Universe.
If theme parks aren’t your thing, then Pudong’s skyscrapers include the second tallest in the world, contrasted with the charm of the Old Town.
When to visit
Special events: The Shanghai International Music Fireworks Festival runs from September 30 to October 6.
The Chinese F1 Grand Prix takes place in Shanghai between Friday, April 15 and Sunday, April 17 (race day).
Weather: Spring and autumn are great times to travel as the weather tends to still be warm but also a lot drier.
Shanghai
Essential information
Approx flight time from London: 11.5 hours
Currency: Chinese Yuan Renminbi
Latest flights to Shanghai
3. Nice, France
Aerial view of Nice
The 2016 vibe
Nice, in the south of France, has been popular with the Brits since the 18th century.
With a Mediterranean coastal setting, brilliant beaches and short flying time, even one of the major streets is named the “Promenade des Anglais”.
Nice has been selected as one of the ten football hubs for EURO 2016, with the Allianz Riviera hosting games featuring Northern Ireland, Poland, Spain and Turkey in the first rounds.
When to visit
Special events: If you love football or just want to see the city buzzing, head there for EURO 2016 in June.
The Riviera comes alive in February for the Nice Carnival. This 15 day entertainment spectacular features parades, live music and lots of flowers.
You’re also only a short train ride away from Monaco, whose famous Grand Prix takes place in May.
Weather: Nice lives up to its name, being surrounded by mountains the city is well protected from the elements. The weather is fine from April through to September, with the hottest time of year being August with average temperatures in the late 20s.
The beach at Nice
Essential information
Approx flight time from London: 2 hours
Currency: Euro
Latest flights to Nice
4. Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi desert
The 2016 vibe
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is set to open this year, adding to the burgeoning art and culture scene in the United Arab Emirates.
A major partnership between Abu Dhabi and France, the spectacular building is set to be as much as a talking point as the art within it.
While you’re there, visit the Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) to spend some time in the vast desert wilderness and walk up the giant sand dunes to get a panoramic view of this silent landscape. Head there for sunrise or sunset to see the colours change.
When to visit
Special events: The opening of the Louvre museum in 2016, and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in November.
Weather: January is the coldest month with temperatures still around 18°C, but you can visit Abu Dhabi at any time of year if you’re after a bit of warmth. The summer is a great time to go, however as the sea temperatures are really warm.
Corniche in Abu Dhabi
Essential information
Approx flight time from London: 6.5 hours
Currency: UAE Dirham
Latest flights to Abu Dhabi
5. Istanbul, Turkey
The 2016 vibe
Istanbul remains the best place to experience an exceptional fusion of East and West.
Four of the most famous sights are within minutes walk of each other: The Blue Mosque (a working mosque), Basilica Cistern, Aya Sofia and Topkapi Palace.
You can get spectacular views of the city from both sides of the Bosphorus, but a boat trip (either organised or by local ferry) is recommended to really get a feel for the city.
Seafood is a major draw here. You’ll find freshly caught fish on most menus, along with “kebabs” of delicious skewered meat, usually served up with tasty rice and salad. Otherwise have a mezze and try a bit of everything.
Istanbul Flower Festival
When to visit
Special events: There are plenty, but the most colourful is the Tulip festival in April.
Weather: There’s plenty of sunshine in Istanbul from spring through to autumn, as wind coming off the Sea of Marmara and The Bosphorus keep it pleasantly cool. July and August peak temperatures average in the 30s.
Essential information
Flight time from London: 4 hours
Currency: Turkish Lira
Latest flights to Istanbul
6. Perth, Australia
Rottnest Island off Perth – Australia
The 2016 vibe
Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane have traditionally been the most popular destinations to fly into Australia, but the city of Perth on the west coast has a whole different selection of wildlife and scenery, along with a very laidback attitude.
The oldest vineyards in the region, Swan Valley and Darling Range, are only a short half hour drive from Perth (you can even go by boat), so head there for a wine tour, the drinks are usually paired with gourmet cheese from the area.
Fremantle (Freo), a harbour town and former penal colony is part of the Perth metropolitan area. It has a World Heritage List prison to tour, as well as plenty of great bars, coffee shops and restaurants. As you’re on holiday, don’t miss the Sunday sessions down at Bathers Beach House.
Or take a boat out to Rottnest Island off the coast of Perth, which has incredible marine life to observe while snorkeling, and plenty of cuddly marsupial Quokkas and dolphins to spot all year round.
When to visit
Special events: The Perth International Arts Festival runs from February 11 to March 6 for a mixture of dance, theatre, arts, music and films.
Visit in the winter and you’ll see the humpback whales migrating.
Weather: Expect an average of eight hours sunshine a day. Unsurprisingly the summer (December to February) is the most popular time to visit with average temperatures in the 30s.
Cottesloe Beach, Perth WA
Essential information
Approx flight time from London: 17.5 hours
Currency: Australian Dollar
Latest flights to Perth
7. Naples, Italy
Naples bay view from Posillipo with Mediterranean sea – Italy
The 2016 vibe
Millions of people will be flocking to Rome after Pope Francis declared 2016 the Jubilee of Mercy, so we recommend avoiding the crowds and heading down south to Naples instead.
There’s amazing food, especially pizza. This is the authentic Italian pizza with tomato and mozzarella, and you know its traditional if it is very thin with higher sides. You should also try the local delicacy, sfogliatella, a pastry full of ricotta cream – they also call it “aragostina” (little lobster), because of its shape.
Naples is also a city of art and history. The most famous square is the vast Piazza Plebiscito, and don’t miss the ceiling in the Cappella San Severo chapel. The intricate floor looks like a labyrinth and there are stunning marbles (the Veiled Christ) as well as a spooky crypt to explore.
From Naples you should head to the “Costiera Amalfitana” (Amalfi Coast). The scenery and beaches are so beautiful, they’re now a UNESCO Heritage site. And of course you should stop off at Pompeii on the way.
When to visit:
Special events: You’ll have to get a move on if you want to catch the famous Naples Winter Wine Festival which takes place at the end of January. The big highlight is the Maggio dei Monumneti in May, with arts and culture celebrated across the city.
They have also a long tradition in creating nativity sets, so if you visit near Christmas the tight Via San Gregorio Armeno has scores of small shops showing creations from local artisans.
Weather: Spring through to early summer is possibly the best time to visit Naples – July and August see the peak temperatures if you’re looking for a burst of heat.
Freshly baked tomato and mozzarella pizza
Essential information
Approximate flight time from London: 2.5 hours
Currency: Euro
Latest flights to Naples
8. Mauritius
Chamarel waterfalls in Mauritius
The 2016 vibe
For a small country, there is certainly a lot going on off the East coast of Africa, and the island continues to be a beacon of democracy and multi-cultural freedom.
While the stunning beaches and crystal-clear water are the big draws, make sure you venture out and see the rare wildlife (this was the only island where the extinct Dodo lived).
The Black River Gorges National Park has spectacular sights, including stunning waterfalls as well as scores of unusual native species, including plants, animals and birds.
When to visit
Special events: As well as Chinese New Year and Eid, the national holiday is on March 12 – visit then and you can watch the parades and celebrations.
Weather: Summer runs from November to March and middle of the summer is also hurricane season. Mauritius enjoys a typical tropical climate, with hot, humid weather in the summer and a dry but relatively mild winter.
Aerial Mauritius. View on Le Morne mount
Essential information
Approximate flight time from London: 11.5 hours
Currency: Mauritian Rupee
Latest Mauritius holidays
9. Copenhagen, Denmark
Nyhavn in Copenhagen
The 2016 vibe
Hit TV show The Bridge has shone a spotlight on Copenhagen in recent years (as well as Malmö in Sweden).
The Danish capital has built up a hard-won reputation as a foodie destination with around 15 Michelin-starred restaurants, and its pretty architecture and relatively small size makes it a great city to explore.
Vinterjazz is the biggest festival of its kind in Europe, and this year the ORCi World Championship takes place in July. This is a week-long sailing event, and takes place in Tuborg Harbour.
If you head over Oresund Bridge this autumn to Malmö , you can take part in a celebration of The Bridge TV series. Included are tours of the bridge, the police station where Saga Norén works and also a special exhibition at Malmö Museum.
When to visit
Special events: Distortion takes place over five days at the start of June. There’s a two day rave in Copenhagen harbour, street parties and club nights.
The famous island Roskilde Festival takes place between June 25 and July 2. Red Hot Chili Peppers, New Order and Foals are on the line up for this week-long camping festival.
Malmö also has a major festival in August, with eight days of fun – don’t miss the traditional Swedish crayfish party (their version of Oktoberfest) at the start.
Weather: In summer the days are longer and the weather’s warm (it only really gets up to 20°C) – however in winter, you can experience the Christmas markets in the snow.
Essential information
Oresund Bridge
Approximate flight time from London: 1 hour, 50 mins
Currency: Kroner
Latest flights to Copenhagen
10. Mexico
Dolphin Beach, Cancun, Mexico
The 2016 vibe
Mexico City sees the return of the Mexican Grand Prix this year after a two decade absence, thanks to a complete renovation of the track and facilities (including a beach area), part of the city’s regeneration plans.
The sprawling metropolis, originally founded by the Aztecs, has refurbished the likes of the Plaza de la Republica, with the Revolution Monument and National Museum getting a recent refresh.
Cancun on the Riviera Maya remains a great beach option. You can bathe in the Caribbean Sea and visit the second largest coral reef in the world.
When to visit
Special events: The Mexican Grand Prix will take place between October 28 and October 30.
Combine this with the famous Day of the Dead festival week, celebrated across Mexico.
Decorated tomb in the cemetery of Xoxocoatlan, Mexico
Weather: Peak times to travel to Cancun are unsurprisingly during the dry season (November – April), where the balmy weather varies from 20°C to 30°C. In places like Mexico City the temperatures don’t vary too much during the day, and like Cancun, in the summer, the temperatures peak, but so does the rainfall.
Essential information
Approximate flight times from London: Cancun: 9.5 hours, Mexico City: 10.5 hours
Currency: Mexican Peso
Latest flights to Cancun
Latest Mexico holidays
11. Malta
Valletta in Malta
The 2016 vibe
This tiny island in the Med has been independent from Britain for over 50 years now, but you can still see the influences from Britain and Italy.
Make sure you see as much of the island as you can by boat from one of the harbours, and discover all the hidden coves, caves and cliffs.
Malta has also established itself as a music hub. Lost & Found Festival returns for 2016, curated by Annie Mac and headlined by Disclosure, Mark Ronson and Groove Armada.
When to visit
Special events: To get a real feel for Maltese culture, visit during Holy Week (Easter) and watch the processions through the streets, before tucking into traditional food and drink at the end of the week
Between May and September, you’re sure to stumble upon a village holding a fiesta for their patron saint or other saints’ celebrated in the area, and the food, fun and fireworks usually goes on for three days.
Visit Valletta at the end of April to catch the Malta International Fireworks Festival (MIFF).
Weather: The balmy Mediterranean climate means the island enjoys warm temperatures all-year-round (annual average is 18°C) – however the spring and autumn are great times to go, as the weather is hot but not scorching.
St. John Cathedral, Valletta, Malta
Essential information
Approximate flight times from London: 3 hours and 15 mins.
Currency: Euro
Latest flights to Malta
12. Bangkok, Thailand
Train market , the famous second hand night market , Bangkok , Thailand
The 2016 vibe
It’s Thai name means “City of Angels” and Bangkok underwent a major clean-up last year, with further regeneration expected in 2016.
Improvements have been made all round: visit the markets and try some of the best street food in the world, sample the nightlife in Sukhumvit or get a boat around the city.
If you fancy heading out of the city, it’s only a short flight to Trat Airport and the island of Koh Chang (Elephant Island), one of the biggest and best islands for partying and jungle trekking. Bang Bao (pictured below) is a fine example of a traditional fishing village.
When to visit:
Special events: April 13-15 sees the official Songkran 2016 celebrations take place across Thailand. This traditional water festival is held to celebrate the Thai New Year – so expect a good soaking.
You can float your candle-lit krathongs on the Asiatique or Wat Saket during Loy Krathong in Bangkok in November. These lotus-shaped rafts are to give thanks to the water goddess and are usually accompanied by parties and dancing.
Weather: Split into three seasons, Thailand is possibly best to visit between November and February, where it is still hot but not stifling (there’s less rain too) – however it remains warm and tropical all-year-round.
Koh Chang in Thailand
Essential information
Approximate flight time from London: 11.5 hours
Currency: Thai baht
Latest flights to Bangkok
13. Ibiza
Ibiza Cala Vedella Vadella in Sant Josep at Balearics
The 2016 vibe
The names of Ibiza Rocks, Pacha and Privilege are sure to warm the cockles of any clubbers heart this year as the lists of one-off parties and special club nights start to be released.
Clubbing is a huge draw, but Ibiza has plenty of quieter resorts as well as family-friendly places if you want to just soak up the sun.
For some culture, visit historic Ibiza City and take a stroll round the Ramparts at Dalt Vila to see how the townsfolk protected themselves from the threat of pirates.
When to visit
Special events: The BBC Radio 1 Weekend turns 21 this year and traditionally takes place on the first weekend of August, when the station brings in the cream of dance music for its live broadcasts across the globe.
The opening parties tend to take place from the start of June, while the major closing parties in September are a great way to round off the summer.
Weather: As the sun shines pretty much every day between May and September, you’ve got plenty of time to hit the beach and grab some serious rays in summer 2016 – the island maintains a nice 20°C during the evening.
Savinar Tower on Ibiza Island
Essential information
Flight times: 2 hours 15 mins
Currency: Euro
Latest flights to Ibiza
14. Hong Kong
The 2016 vibe
Hong Kong’s foodie star is on the rise.
Michelin only started rating Hong Kong restaurants in 2009, but already there are six restaurants with stars to their name. They’ve also launched culinary awards for the best local dishes, such as Dim Sum, Minced Meat dishes and Chicken Pot and of course if you’re feeling adventurous try some of the more unusual delicacies.
We’ve already put together a handy stopover guide to Hong Kong for a flying visit as well as our selection of five of the best bars to quench your thirst – including the highest bar in the world.
When to visit
Special events: The famous Hong Kong Sevens is one of the most popular rugby festivals in the world is in April – don’t forget your fancy dress.
The Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival will take place in Victoria Harbour on June 9 this year – expect boats racing with up to 22 paddlers (and a drummer) battling to be crowned champions.
Happy Valley is where its at for the glamorous horse racing, with the season starting in September but running through to July.
Weather: A sub-tropical climate means the summers are hot and wet while the winters are dry and mild (the average temperature in January is still round 15-16°C) Spring and autumn are a happy medium.
Essential information
Approximate flight time from London: 11.5 hours
Currency: Hong Kong Dollar
Latest flights to Hong Kong
15. Croatia
The 2016 vibe
Last year’s boom in visitors to Croatia from the UK means there are now more flights available than ever.
We’ve put together a guide to doing a joint city and island break, featuring Split, Brac and Bol on the Dalmatian Coast, if you fancy mixing the beach with some Roman architecture.
Croatia is also gaining a reputation for its wine, and there are plenty of festivities celebrating the grape held across the country in September, in places like Ilok and Jastrebarsko.
When to visit
Special events: The three-day, open air INmusic Festival in Zagreb sees Florence +the Machine top the bill in June.
Rather than muddy fields of Glastonbury, you’ll be camping on one of the three islands in the middle of Lake Jarun.
Weather: Croatia is blessed with a hot and dry summer, meaning the best times to visit on a beach break are in the summer months – where you’ll get around ten hours sunshine and temperatures comfortably in the mid 20s.
Essential information
Flight times: 2.5 hours
Currency: Croatian Kuna
Latest Croatia holidays
And finally
We’d love to hear which countries are on your bucket list for 2016. Let us know your holiday plans for this year by leaving a comment below.
Hopefully this list has inspired you to travel somewhere new in 2016 – if so check out our latest deals on flights for this year.
If you want your flight and hotel packaged up in one – check out our best holiday packages for 2016.
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