Planning travel around when to go is just as important as where to go, especially if you want the best weather, fewer crowds, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re dreaming of a bucket-list adventure, a family-friendly getaway, or a once-in-a-lifetime cruise, this month-by-month guide highlights the best destinations for 2026 and why each shines at that time of year.

As a travel advisor, I help clients match destinations to the perfect timing, so if any of these spark your interest, I’d love to help you start planning.

When it comes to holiday magic, no one does it quite like Germany. Twinkling lights, steaming mugs of mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and the scent of gingerbread drifting through cobblestone streets, Germany’s Weihnachtsmärkte (Christmas markets) are straight out of a fairytale. Whether you’re dreaming of a festive European getaway or planning to add some Christmas spirit to a larger European itinerary, these are the most magical Christmas markets in Germany you have to see at least once in your lifetime.