Sometimes travelers don’t have a lot of flexibility in terms of when they can take their trips; there are many factors to consider, such as work schedules, the schedules of individuals they’re traveling with, and the best time of year to visit their desired destination. However, when traveling to any of these 10 countries, there is no wrong time of year to visit for the best possible experience. Each of these destinations is beautiful in its own way during every season, allowing travelers the flexibility to check a dream country off their bucket list at any time.
10 Iceland
Iceland has become a popular travel destination in recent years because of its unique lava rock landscapes, volcanoes, glaciers, and waterfalls. One of the best parts of visiting Iceland is that it offers unforgettable and unique experiences during different seasons. In winter (December to March) the days are shorter and the average temperatures range from -10ºC to -1ºC. This is the perfect time to see the Aurora Borealis lighting up the night sky, explore ice caves on a guided tour, or soak in a hot spring.
In summer (June to September) the days are long, giving travelers a chance to experience the midnight sun. The temperatures are mild, ranging from 2ºC to 12ºC, allowing visitors to camp around the country for a budget getaway.
9 Japan
Japan is truly stunning in all four seasons, making it challenging for travelers to choose when to visit. In the spring (specifically March and April) travelers can experience the beauty of Sakura Season when cherry blossoms are in full bloom and temperatures are mild, ranging from 5ºC to 19ºC on average in Tokyo. Summer in Japan is hot and humid, so this is the ideal time to head to the coast for some beach time. Summer is also the only time of year that visitors can attempt to summit the iconic Mount Fuji (July to September).
In the fall, the leaves on the trees turn to incredible shades of orange, yellow, and red, creating a beautiful backdrop for hiking and photography. Winter in Japan is cool, with snow falling in some parts of the country. Hokkaido prefecture is especially known as a winter destination for skiing. The lower temperatures make soaking in an Onsen (hot bath) even more appealing.
8 Canada
Canada is well known for its snowy winters, which are beloved by skiers and snowmobilers alike. However, the vast country is just as magical during the summer (June to September) when temperatures in the southern part of the country are warm. Travelers can go hiking in Alberta, wine tasting in Kelowna, camping in Algonquin Park, or swimming in one of the country’s many freshwater lakes.
In autumn (September to December) the temperatures are cool, and the leaves change color, making it the perfect time of year for outdoor enthusiasts to go hiking. In Alberta, the larches are a vibrant yellow at the end of September and the beginning of October. In Ontario, near Toronto, the maple trees turn vibrant shades of yellow and orange at the beginning to middle of October.
7 Germany
Europe is a quintessential summer travel destination for North Americans, but countries like Germany are beautiful year-round. In the spring and fall, prices are lower, crowds are fewer, and temperatures in the capital range from 0ºC (in March) to 20ºC (in May and September).
During the winter months (December to March), Berlin faces average temperatures as low as -2ºC. The country boasts charming Christmas markets as the holiday season approaches.
6 New Zealand
Since New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons contrast those in North America, allowing Americans to escape the cold winter months by heading to New Zealand for summer (December to March). During New Zealand’s summer, temperatures average anywhere from 15ºC to 24ºC, and visitors enjoy hiking trails like the Milford Track and swimming at the beaches.
New Zealand’s autumn takes place between March and May, while their spring is from September to December. During these months, temperatures are mild to cool, making it pleasant to spend time outdoors. Snow appears in New Zealand during the winter, typically between June and October, depending on where travelers are in the country. The North Island receives the most rainfall during the winter months, while this is the season with the least precipitation for the South Island. During winter, head to the South Island for snow sports like skiing and snowboarding at some incredible resorts.
5 Peru
Peru only has two main seasons, the wet season (November to March) and the dry season (April to October). While it might sound like the dry season is the prime time to visit for clear skies, consistent weather, and sunshine, the rainy season offers warmer temperatures. Travelers planning a trek to Machu Picchu via the Inca Trail or another hiking route will probably find the dry season is best for less slippery conditions. However, anyone visiting to explore the cities of Lima, Cusco, or Arequipa can have a wonderful experience year-round as long as they remember their rain poncho.
4 United States
The United States is a vast country with varied climates and seasonal temperatures throughout. This means that regardless of the time of year you’re traveling, there’s a destination that meets your needs. On the west coast, south and central California offer moderate temperatures year-round. In the spring (March to May) visitors should head to Central Park in New York City to see the picturesque cherry blossoms and enjoy temperate weather. New England on the country’s East Coast is an idyllic fall location with vibrant red, yellow, and orange leaves on the trees.
During the summer months (June to September) many travelers want to enjoy blue skies and sunshine in Boulder, Colorado, Lake Tahoe, California, or Portland, Maine. In the winter months, visitors can go skiing in Colorado and Vermont, or escape to the beach in Florida.
3 Argentina
South America is a country with diverse landscapes and climates. Unlike Peru, Argentina is located at the southern tip of the continent and experiences four seasons instead of two. Travelers planning to go hiking in Patagonia will find they can enjoy Argentina in all seasons, although conditions are kindest during spring (September to November), summer (December to February), and fall (March to May).
During the winter, visitors can still explore Patagonian Argentina via El Chalten. Temperatures range from 3ºC to 17ºC during this time and snow is possible, creating a magical landscape among the mountain peaks.
2 Finland
Finland is an exciting country to visit throughout the year. Summer activities like swimming, hiking, canoeing, and fishing are abundant thanks to the wild landscapes outside the capital of Helsinki. In the winter, many travelers head north to the capital of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi. Here, the temperatures range from -1ºC to -17ºC on average and snow is bountiful. Visitors will find themselves in a true winter wonderful with reindeer, igloo accommodation options, sleigh rides, dog sledding excursions, and more.
1 South Africa
Since South Africa is located south of the equator, the four seasons here are opposite of North America. Summer (December to February) is an enjoyable time of year to visit with temperatures in Cape Town and the southern coast reaching 28ºC on average. Travelers can explore the city, head to Boulders Beach to see the penguins, or rent a car and drive the garden route into wine country.
Winter temperatures remain mild around the legislative capital, averaging between 7ºC to 19ºC between June to August. Prices are more affordable, making this a great time to explore the country in the off-season.