12 amazing cities to visit (by month)

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Are you looking where to spend your next city break? Then you’ve come to the right place. Check out my top 12 amazing cities to visit (by month) right here.

My favorite moments are those when you get that crazy idea to plan your next trip. You think about it and you just feel that you have to do it. Does that sound recognizable to anyone out here? The first thing I do is, I take my calender and start looking for those extended weekends, holidays and vacation periods. Depending on how much time I have to travel, I choose my destination. But which travel destinations do most justice during those available vactions periods?

That’s why I made a mini bucket list with my top 12 cities all over the world that you have to visit at least once.  You won’t only discover 12 amazing cities to visit but also in which month you’d best visit them. So I killed 2 birds in one stone there.  Do you like to travel close or far? Plenty of options for everyone.

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. That means we can receive a commission if you buy something that we really recommend. There are no extra costs you and it supports our blog. Thank you. **

TOP 12 amazing cities to visit

January: Cape town in South-Africa

12 city trip ideas for the next year

If you want to escape the winter and enjoy a wonderful combination between city and beach, then Cape Town in South Africa is the ideal destination for you. Cape Town has so much to offer. Besides the vibrant city centre with various nice neighborhoods, you can also enjoy the beautiful beaches such as Camps Bay, Hout Bay and Muizenberg beach.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

But Cape Town is also a perfect travel destination for adventurous travelers. Climb Table Mountain or Lion’s head and enjoy the most beautiful views of Cape Town. Don’t forget to drive along Chapmans peak or make an unforgettable day trip to the Cape of Good Hope while visiting the penguins on Bolders Beach.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Yes, you can already guess where I’m going with this! Cape Town is the ‘place to be’ in January. At that time it’s summer vacation in South Africa, so keep in mind that it can get pretty busy there. If you prefer to squeeze in some peace and quiet, combine Cape Town with a stay on a vineyard in the famous wine region of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Not enough of South Africa, then definitely consider a road trip along the Garden Route. This route is phenomenal! A city trip to Cape Town is therefore highly recommended for the month of January. Don’t forget to check out this South Africa travel guide as well, before heading to Cape town.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips to stay in Cape Town:

February: Rovaniemi in Finland

12 city trip ideas for the next year

During the winter months, many people travel to the North to admire the Northern Lights. This phenomenon has also been on my bucket list for a long time. Unfortunately, I have never had the chance to see it.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Rovaniemi is the capital of Lapland and probably one of the smallest places on my list of amazing cities to visit. It’s a great place where you have the chance to spot the famous northern lights, especially between the months of September and March. The name of this town may sound familiar to you? This is the hometown of Santa Claus. Even though the Christmas period in February is long gone, here you can enjoy the cozy Christmas atmosphere for a little longer without feeling guilty.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Besides spotting the northern lights (if you are lucky), and visiting Santa Claus, you can still experience a lot in Rovaniemi. Experience one of more epic Rovaniemi tours, such as an unforgettable husky safari, racing with a snowmobile, … or go exploring the picturesque town centre.

In short, a great city trip idea for February. If you would rather escape the cold winter weather, then you should definitely check out these amzing, sunny winter destinations in Europe.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips to stay in in Rovaniemi:

March: Copenhagen in Denmark

12 city trip ideas for the next year

We’ll stay in the North for a little longer to recommend a visit to Copenhagen in March. It’s still a bit cold then, but pleasant to visit the city with the necessary warm clothing. Copenhagen surprised me several times. On the one hand because of the architecture where historic architectural styles go hand in hand with contemporary minimalist design. And on the other hand because of the excellent cuisine, better known as Nordic cuisine.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Copenhagen is a city full of culture, ranging from the most impressive buildings, historic castles and palaces, fascinating museums, cozy neighborhoods, wonderful shops and so much more. Discover the city on foot or by bike and stop regularly to heat up with a coffee or delicious cup of hot chocolate in a local bar. There is something to experience everywhere in Copenhagen. So there is no possibility to get bored.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips om te stay in Copenhagen in Denmark

April: Valletta in Malta

12 city trip ideas for the next year

April is a wonderful time to travel to Malta and start the spring on the right foot. Valletta, the capital of Malta, is the perfect city trip destination or base for exploring Malta further. This small, cozy and picturesque city not only has beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea, but is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its impressive historical Baroque-style buildings. It’s therefore no surprise that Valletta was chosen as the European Capital of Culture last year. One more reason to visit Valletta.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Experiencing Easter in Malta is quite an event. From Good Friday to Easter there is an exuberant celebration in different towns. Starting with a Good Friday Procession where we see how Jesus is crucified to end with an Easter Procession where we see Jesus resurrected. This traditional celebration is specific for Malta and it is definitely worth celebrating with the locals. Moreover, the local inhabitants also welcome you with open arms.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

12 city trip ideas for the next year

If you want to extend your stay in Malta, you should certainly pay a visit to the island of Gozo where you can enjoy the most beautiful landscapes.

Photo guide to the most photogenic spots in Gozo | Malta

Tips to stay in Valletta in Malta:

May: New Orleans in the United States

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Of course New Orleans couldn’t be missing from my list of amazing cities to visit. This city is known worldwide for jazz music and its vibrant nightlife in Bourbon Street. But of course this is only a fraction of what NOLA has to offer. The melting pot of cultures that you not only find in the architecture, but also in the local cuisine was the main reason for me to visit this city, and I must say it met all my expectations.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

This city has been on my bucket list for a while. When I could finaly check it off in July, I was certainly not disappointed. But because of Hurricane Barry who had just struck, the atmosphere was not as vibrant as usual. That is why I would also recommend traveling here in the spring when you still have pleasant temperatures, but no chance of hurricanes.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Going back and forth to New Orleans for us Belgians or Europeans, is maybe a bit far. But this city can easily be integrated into a longer vacation such as a Deep South Roadtrip. If you are in New Orleans, don’t forget to explore the surrounding countryside. This is certainly worth it!

12 city trip ideas for the next year

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips where to stay in New Orleans in de United States:

June: Florence in Italy

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, and also one of my favorite cities in Italy. I have visited this city a few times and it keeps surprising me time after time. Every time I visit Florence, I discover something new.

12 city trip ideas for the next year 

12 city trip ideas for the next year

The best way to discover Florence (according to me): definitely don’t rush  to see everything. Discovering everything in a few days is just not possible. Allow yourself to be immersed in the splendor of this mesmerising city, stroll through the streets and admire the beautiful architecture. Take a break once in a while with a tasty aperitivo and antipasta or a delicious Italian gelato. In June the weather is perfect for ice cream.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Would you like to extend your city trip and discover more of Italy? A city trip to Florence can easily be combined with a visit to the city of Pisa or explore the 5 beautiful towns of Cinque Terre. From Florence there is a good train connection to these cities.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips to stay in Florence Italy:

July: Ghent in Belgium

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Surprise surprise, in July I advise you to visit my hometown: Ghent. Not only the temperature is pleasant, but the ‘Gente feesten’ take place in July every year. The ‘Gentse feesten’ are a 10-day city festival. On every square there are various performances, in the streets there are stalls with different kinds of food, drinks and products and every night you can party till the early hours. There’ s a wide and varied range of activities both during the day and in the evening. This city festival attracts around 1 million visitors annually. If you prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of the ‘Gentse feesten’, be sure to book a stay in July. The date of the festival varies from year to year, but always takes place around July 21st.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Of course Ghent has much more to offer than just the ‘Gentse feesten’. Discover this beautiful medieval city and architecture on foot or by boat from the various canals. Visit the Gravensteen and learn everything about medieval torture practices. Go urban and admire street art from young artists in the city. Enjoy the local delicacies and often treat yourself to a fresh Belgian beer.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

12 city trip ideas for the next year

If you can’t get enough of Belgium, extend your city trip with a visit to other beautiful Belgian cities such as Brussels, Bruges or Antwerp.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips to stay in Ghent Belgium:

August: Ljubljana in Slovenia

12 city trip ideas for the next year

A city that I certainly want to visit again is Ljubljana in Slovenia. I barely had 1 full day to explore Ljubljana and this was way too short. But also just long enough to fall in love. This  well kept, cozy city is definitely one of the most beautiful places in Slovenia and exudes a super relaxed atmosphere.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

12 city trip ideas for the next year

In the evening we accidentally ended up at a food market on the central market square of Ljubljana. This food market takes place every Friday evening from mid-March till the end of October. Here you can taste local, but also exotic dishes. The atmosphere and hospitality of the locals was just amazing.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

12 city trip ideas for the next year

In August it’s summer vacation and you may be able to spend a little more time than just a few days for a city trip. Beautiful places in Slovenia to combine with a trip to Ljubljana are Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, Jamnik, Bela Krajina, … If you don’t have a car then you can perfectly travel from Ljubljana to Lake Bled by bus.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

12 city trip ideas for the next year

If you do have a car then you might consider a road trip through some of the Balkan countries. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro are definitely recommended!

Tips to stay in Ljubljana Slovenia:

September: Leiden in The Netherlands

12 city trip ideas for the next year

One of the biggest surprises to make it on my list of amzing cities to visit is definitely Leiden in the Netherlands. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this city has definitely stole my heart. This student town that is also named little Amsterdam because its many canals, has a lot of charm. Besides to the cozy streets, beautiful canal houses and wonderful restaurants, there is a huge variety of culture in various museums in Leiden.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

We visited Leiden in November but would recommend September as the perfect time for a citytrip. With mild temperatures, Leiden’s charm will be fully appreciated even more.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Stay a day longer and head to Noordwijk on the coast. It is barely half an hour away by car and I promise you, you won’t regret it. This is the perfect place to end a successful city trip in a relaxing way.

Of course there are so much more destinations to explore in The Netherlands. Check out this 7-day Netherlands itinarary if you’re interested in making a more extensive trip.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips to stay in Leiden in The Netherlands:

October: Miltenberg in Germany

12 city trip ideas for the next year

In the middle of Rhineland in Germany you can find the uber romantic town of Miltenberg. With its picturesque village squares and beautiful authentic half-timbered houses you can imagine yourself in a Disney movie. The fall colors make the whole setting even more enchanting.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Here you can especially stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets and enjoy the local delights. Don’t forget to take a look by the historical castle where you have a beautiful view of the city.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

You don’t need much time to explore Miltenberg. You can easily combine visiting this city with a few more romantic places in Rhineland.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips to stay in Miltenberg in Germany:

November: Mandalay in Myanmar

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Another city that made a deep impression on me was Mandalay in Myanmar. The best time to visit this city and other destinations in Myanmar is spring and autumn. During the summer months it is rainy season.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

I can’t explain why Mandalay had such a special effect on me, but I thought it was a super magical destination. A place where I thoroughly enjoyed the cultural treasures such as the many beautiful and lavishly decorated pagodas, but also the hospitality of the inhabitants.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

If you travel all the way to Mandalay I guess you are visiting other destinations in Myanmar as well. In recent years, the country has invested a lot in decent transport options. The most important tourist spots and largest cities are already accessible by bus or by plane, which makes traveling within Myanmar much easier. Be sure to plan a city trip to Mandalay in your itinerary through Myanmar.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips to stay in Mandalay in Myanmar:

December: Miami in the United States

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Last but not list on my list of amazing cities to visit is Miami. The European winter always makes me long for warm and tropical destinations. In December, the climate in Miami is perfect: neither too hot nor too cold. Strolling and drinking cocktails on Ocean Drive, sunbathing or a long walk on South beach and admiring the Art Deco district are the must do activities to soak up the tropical atmosphere.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

But also downtown Miami has various treasures such as the Wynwood district and Little Havana, by far the coolest neighborhoods in Miami.

12 city trip ideas for the next year

I probably shouldn’t tell you that a city trip to Miami is one of the best remedies against the winter blues. But that many other destinations within the state of Florida are worth a visit, I can still mention here. Perfect to combine with a city trip to Miami is a visit to the Everglades, the theme parks of Orlando, the beautiful Ginnie springs or the slightly quieter located Sanibel island. Or take a great road trip through the Deep South and discover all these places and so much more!

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Tips to stay in Miami in the United States:

Voila, these are my top 12 amazing cities to visit per month. I hope this mini city trip bucket list gave you some inspiration for your upcoming travel adventures?

Let me know in the comments which city you would love to visit?

Thanks for reading.

Yours truly,

Sarah

12 city trip ideas for the next year

Stay tuned on new blog posts and subscribe to my newsletter below.

 

pin it for later

12 amazing cities to visit (by month)
12 amazing cities to visit (by month)
12 amazing cities to visit (by month)

you might also like

Spread the love

54 thoughts on “12 amazing cities to visit (by month)

  1. Rhonda Albom says:

    So many stunning locations. Love the idea of one fascinating destination per month. Malta and South Africa are the two that are the most fascinating to me.

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Malta was definitely one of the biggest suprises of 2019. It’s an incredible destination. I hope you’ll get to visit in 2020.

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Thank you Vanessa. I hope I’ve helped you with some inspirations travel destinations for 2020.

  2. Andi says:

    Some of these spots I have been to and some I am getting to this year, others look wonderful but haven’t been on my radar yet – thanks for all the suggestions and BEAUTIFUL photos!

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Haha, I have a bucket list just like that as well. Thank you for the feedback. That means a lot to me.

  3. Melissa Luther says:

    This post makes me want to pack up now and go! So many wonderful places. I want to visit Ginnie Springs so much-it looks gorgeous. Definitely have some new ideas for trips to plan, thanks for sharing!

  4. Taylor says:

    This is a great list! I loved visiting Cape Town in the winter and Leiden in the Netherlands looks beautiful during September. 🙂 Your photos are so beautiful!

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Thank you so much Taylor. Cape Town is one of my all time favorites and Leiden was definitely the biggest surprise for me last year. Such a great town to visit. 🙂

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Thank you Jen. I hope you found some inspiration for your next trip when we can all travel again 🙂

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Thank you so much Ashley! Hope we get to travel again soon. So many other places to discover as well 🙂

  5. Jean-Marie says:

    Incredible!! As a South African I love that Cape Town made the list! New Orleans is absolutely on my bucket list! I absolutely loved Lake Bled when I visited last year!

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      OOOOh Yes, Cape Town is one of my favorite cities. And New Orleans is pure magic! I hope you’ll get there someday! 🙂

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Thank you! I hope you do. We have so much good memories of every destination in this list 🙂

  6. Stephanie says:

    This post is unique, I haven’t seen one like it. I couldn’t wait to see which months would match which cities. I can tell you right now, if this pandemic is gone by next year I’M BOOKING MALTA IN APRIL! You have sold me on that hook, line, and sinker! Thank you so much. Love the blog.

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Thank you Jasmine. Lapland is such a gorgeous destination. Too bad I couldn’t see the Northern lights. I hope you’ll get to see them when you go.

    • Sarah De Gheselle says:

      Haha, yes they are very much pro social distancing and they will let you know when you cross the rule. I didn’t want an angry pinguin chasing me 🙂

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *