The best times to visit countries are not the same the world over. For example, if you’ve ever considered booking a once-in-a-lifetime holiday to the Caribbean, you may have noticed it’s significantly cheaper between June and November. There’s a good reason for this and it’s all to do with the climate.
If you want the typical idyllic Caribbean holiday lounging by the pool, snorkelling in the clear blue sea and snoozing on sandy white beaches, it may be hit and miss during the June to November hurricane season. Try to snooze on the beach during hurricane season and you’ll end up looking like Worzel Gummidge! It’s better to cough up a bit more hard-earned cash and go between December and April when the Caribbean slightly cooler (particularly in the northern Caribbean), drier and less humid, although this is when most tourists visit. You can’t blame people yearning to escape the northern hemisphere winter!
So, let’s have a look at a selection of countries within each continent to discover the best times of year to visit…
Europe
Austria
The best time to visit the beautiful and geographically diverse country of Austria April, May, September or October. These months shoulder the typically very hot summer months which can also see prices for accommodation in a city like Vienna, sky-rocket. But if you’re looking to ski in the Austrian Alps, the best times to visit would be end of November through to the beginning of April.
Jersey
Jersey is one of the lesser well-known treasures in Europe. Just nine miles by five, this island attracts scores of visitors each year but numbers start to dwindle off around mid-September to mid-October and so do prices on the island, too. The sea is at its warmest during these months and you can still bask in the beautiful sunshine and comfortably explore the wonder of this island. The summer months of July, August and September can be stiflingly hot and busy.
South America
Peru
The best time to visit Peru is any time outside of the rainy season which is between January and March. If you’re looking to trek Machu Picchu, then then best months are April through to October, but remember, July and August can get very crowded at the attraction. Take a look at our insider’s view for some really useful tips.
Brazil
March to November are typically dry months, and December to February are generally the wet months in Southern Brazil. Temperatures can feel cool from June to September, although the rainforest areas, Pantanal and the Amazon. are warm and humid all year round. To learn more about Brazil, we’ve created a wonderful guide about Brazil’s traveller’s delights.
North America
Florida
Many travellers claim the best time to visit Florida is Easter where the weather is warm but not too hot for visiting the bustling major theme parks and glorious beaches. The summer months (June-August) can be stifling hot, especially for younger travellers. Hurricane season is from June to November, so it’s advisable to avoid that time period.
Canada
Like Europe, the summer months are most popular for visitors. Here you’ll find an abundance of sunny days with pleasant temperatures. The spring starts in late April and lasts until early June and can be a wonderful time of year to witness the wake of Canadian wildlife from their winter hibernation. September is the peak of the salmon run which in turn attracts large numbers of bears and the stunning foliage emerging to mark the beginning of autumn is especially special to experience.
Australia
Sydney
The best times to visit Sydney are September through to November and from March to May. These months offer comfortable temperatures and some relief from the huge tourist crowds. Plus, airline and accommodation prices fall accordingly. Sydney’s hottest weather, and peak tourist season, is between December and February with the region’s low tourist season being May through to August.
Perth
On the other side of Australia in Perth, the best time to visit is September, October or November when the city is awash with the vibrant colours and aromas of spring. and the bright sunny days are unbroken by rain. December to February is Perth’s summertime and it enjoys balmy (and often scorching) temperatures. Looking for a little cooler holiday? Try March when it is still very warm, but a little less busy at Perth’s glorious beaches.
Africa
The best time to visit Africa shifts from south to east to north, depending on rainfall and wildlife. In Kruger National Park, the winter dry season falls between May and October when game viewing is at its best, but to catch East Africa’s Great Migration, you’ll need to travel between June and early September.
Cape Town
Late January to late April is often regarded as the best time for a Cape Town beach holiday. This is when the weather is dry and warm and the sea is tranquil (although watch out for those Great Whites!). April to August is usually very wet, with rainfall peaking during June and July. September is the beginning of spring and Cape Town is extraordinarily stunning at this time.
Zimbabwe
If you’re looking to view some of Zimbabwe’s enthralling wildlife, the dry May to October winter season is ideal; mild temperatures, negligible rainfall and low malaria risk. September and October can be scorching hot, however, so the earlier on in the season, the better.
Asia
Japan
March to May (late spring) and September to November (late autumn) are often regarded as the best months to see Japan. The skies are clear, temperatures are mild and you’ll experience the delicate cherry blossom of the spring or the vibrant abundance of autumn leaves respectively. Read our article to learn how to visit Japan’s magical city of Tokyo without breaking the bank.
Maldives
November and April are the most popular months to visit the Maldives, although many say May to November is the best time to visit this idyllic island. Then you’ll find it less crowded and you’ll bag the best prices for accommodation. However, you may experience some rain, but it is quite magical bathing in the beautiful Indian Ocean with the raindrops pattering around you.
Antarctica
Of all continents, Antarctica has the least visitors – about 4,000 people per year. Considering there are no countries and no permanent human residents, this number is not surprising. Visitors are attracted to Antarctica because of the wildlife and the best time to visit is between November and March when the sun rises above the horizon and penguins begin hatching. In February / March, you’re most likely to spot whales. Just remember to pack those thermals….
The best times to visit countries is different depending on your preferred destination. But wherever and whenever you want to go, and whatever you want to do, there’s always somewhere in this wonderful world to satisfy your curious appetite.
About the Author
My name is Natalie Blackburn and I’m a busy 36 year-old mum of two under five. I am from, and still live, in the vibrant city of Manchester. Since entering into my thirties and becoming a parent, I developed an interest in good financial planning, and coupled with my passion for writing, I have lovingly created the blog that you read on Sophisticated Savers.
Other interests of mine include reading (autobiographies are a particular favourite) and running (but only if I am pushed to, so I wouldn’t really call it an interest, but just wanted to sound as though I was quite fit!) and yoga (that is a real interest!). Wine and chocolate are also my real interests, and the occasional travel when I have the time.
