A travel expert has shared the best cities to visit for each month of 2026, from Venice carnival season to Munich’s Oktoberfest – and it’s all about timing
The expert said Athens is perfect in spring before all the tourists flock to the beautiful city(Image: georgeclerk via Getty Images)
Holidays don’t come cheap, so regardless of where you jet off to, you’ll want to squeeze every ounce of value from your time abroad. One of the smartest ways to maximise your getaway is by selecting the optimal time of year to visit your chosen destination.
Getting this right can transform your entire trip, particularly if you’re hoping to catch sunny weather or experience local celebrations. One experienced globetrotter has compiled his recommendations for which cities to explore during each month of the year.
TikTok users know him as ‘Rob on the beach’ – a travel specialist at UK travel agent On The Beach who regularly shares insider knowledge and practical advice across his social media channels.
He explained that he’s frequently asked about the best destinations for city breaks throughout different months, prompting him to create a comprehensive guide all in one spot.
Speaking on TikTok, Rob said: “I’ve built the perfect 12-month city break calendar for 2026 based on weather, what’s on, my own opinions and my experience so you can always have a break in the calendar without spending a fortune.”, reports the Express.
While January has already passed, Rob had suggested Budapest, highlighting its “rock bottom prices” as an excellent way to kick off the year.
For those still hoping to arrange an eleventh-hour airport dash, Venice is ideal for February, according to Rob, as it hosts carnival season despite the nippy temperatures. For March, Rob explained: “With temperatures around 10 to 12 degrees in March, tulip season starting, prices still nice and low, this is the month the city wakes up before the tourists arrive. For March, I can recommend a break in Amsterdam.”
Those seeking an April getaway should consider Athens, where the expert highlighted ideal walking weather between 18 and 22 degrees alongside significant sightseeing opportunities to complete.
Rob explained: “For May, I have chosen a massively underrated city with warm but comfortable temperatures at 22 to 25 degrees, and that’s before the peak heat. Markets buzzing, ferries are running, prices are still really fair, you’re missing out if you don’t give Istanbul a try.”
Come June, Rob advocates visiting Boston, where holidaymakers can immerse themselves in the World Cup excitement. July proves ideal for Krakow, the expert notes, whilst he also champions a British destination for August, proposing Edinburgh as the premier summer escape, with numerous festivals occurring throughout the month.
He recommends travelling to Germany in September for Oktoberfest’s commencement. Specifically, Rob identifies Munich as his preferred destination.
Rob commented: “October 2026 will be the perfect month to visit Spain’s hottest city. It’s quieter, the heat’s still perfect, and you’ll find some of the best food in Europe there. In October, you’d be daft not to visit Seville.”
Naples is Rob’s recommendation for November, highlighting the pleasant temperatures and the absence of crowds as the year draws to a close.
For December, Rob suggests some ideal Christmas markets set against a stunning cathedral backdrop. Cologne is his preferred destination to round off the year.
