Sometimes the rainy season is the most magical time to visit. Some places become hidden gems, with lush greenery, misty views, and a cosy feel that you can’t get any other time of the year. The ten best places to visit when it’s raining are highlighted in this guide. These are places where the rain makes everything stand out, like colourful woods, misty hills, and cute towns that feel extra special when it’s drizzleing. These places come to life when it rains, like the jungles in Costa Rica, the cliffs in Ireland, and the backwaters in Kerala, India. There are roaring waterfalls, quiet walks, and busy local markets that are great for travellers who don’t mind getting wet.
Most of the time, less people and lower costs happen during the rainy season, so it’s also good for your wallet. These places are great for rainy days because you can hike through foggy woods, sip tea in a cosy café or take in the culture while your umbrella taps against the ground. Prepare for an adventure by putting on a jacket and possibly waterproof shoes. These amazing places are at their best when the skies open up. There’s fun to be had, and the rain makes it even better.
The Top Ten Best Places To Visit During Rainy Season
10. Scotland
Scotland’s rainy season, peaking from October to January, paints its highlands and lochs with a mystical charm that’s hard to beat. The rain, often a
Sometimes the rainy season is the most magical time to visit. Some places become hidden gems, with lush greenery, misty views, and a cosy feel that you can’t get any other time of the year. The ten best places to visit when it’s raining are highlighted in this guide. These are places where the rain makes everything stand out, like colourful woods, misty hills, and cute towns that feel extra special when it’s drizzleing. These places come to life when it rains, like the jungles in Costa Rica, the cliffs in Ireland, and the backwaters in Kerala, India. There are roaring waterfalls, quiet walks, and busy local markets that are great for travellers who don’t mind getting wet.
Most of the time, less people and lower costs happen during the rainy season, so it’s also good for your wallet. These places are great for rainy days because you can hike through foggy woods, sip tea in a cosy café or take in the culture while your umbrella taps against the ground. Prepare for an adventure by putting on a jacket and possibly waterproof shoes. These amazing places are at their best when the skies open up. There’s fun to be had, and the rain makes it even better.
The Top Ten Best Places To Visit During Rainy Season
10. Scotland
Scotland’s rainy season, peaking from October to January, paints its highlands and lochs with a mystical charm that’s hard to beat. The rain, often a gentle drizzle, blankets rolling hills and historic castles in mist, creating a dramatic backdrop for explorers. Edinburgh’s cobbled streets glisten, while the Highlands’ rugged trails beckon hikers with waterproof boots. Warm up in cozy pubs or tour whisky distilleries, where the scent of aged barrels pairs perfectly with the sound of rain.
Museums in Glasgow and Edinburgh offer rich history for wet days, while the Isle of Skye’s cliffs shimmer under cloudy skies. Fewer crowds mean more space to soak in the atmosphere, and off-season prices make it wallet-friendly. The rain enhances Scotland’s raw beauty, turning every view into a postcard moment. Whether wandering through ancient ruins or sipping tea in a quaint café, travelers find the wet weather adds a layer of enchantment to this storied land, making it a top pick for rainy season adventures.
9. Iceland
Iceland’s rainy season, stretching year-round but peaking from October to April, turns its volcanic landscapes into a surreal wonderland. Rain glistens on black lava fields and amplifies the roar of waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss. Soaking in the Blue Lagoon feels even cozier under a drizzle, while Reykjavik’s museums and geothermal pools offer warm retreats.
Hiking trails through moss-covered valleys reward adventurers with misty vistas, and the rain often clears to reveal rainbows over glaciers. With fewer tourists in these months, attractions feel more intimate, and accommodation costs drop.
The unpredictable weather adds a thrilling edge, with rain enhancing the stark beauty of geysers and fjords. Indoor activities, like exploring Viking history or sipping coffee in quirky cafés, balance outdoor adventures. Iceland’s rainy season delivers a raw, elemental experience, where nature’s drama unfolds in full force, making it a must-visit for those craving a unique, budget-friendly escape filled with natural wonders and cultural gems.
8. Australia (Daintree Rainforest)
The Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, Australia, comes alive during its wet season from December to April, when heavy rains transform it into a lush, tropical paradise. Part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, this ancient rainforest bursts with vibrant greenery, swollen rivers, and cascading waterfalls like Mossman Gorge. Guided walks reveal rare wildlife, from cassowaries to tree kangaroos, thriving in the wet conditions.
River rafting and canopy tours offer thrilling ways to experience the deluge, while boardwalks keep explorers dry. The rain discourages peak-season crowds, offering a quieter, more immersive adventure, with lower accommodation rates. Coastal towns like Cairns provide indoor attractions, such as art galleries and cultural centers, for rainy afternoons.
The Daintree’s biodiversity shines brightest in the wet season, with rain enhancing the sensory experience of this tropical gem. For nature lovers seeking an authentic, budget-friendly escape, this rainforest delivers a front-row seat to one of the world’s oldest ecosystems, where rain is the heartbeat of adventure.
7. Japan
Japan’s rainy season, known as “tsuyu,” blankets the country from June to mid-July, turning gardens, temples, and mountains into lush, serene escapes. Rainfall enhances the emerald glow of Kyoto’s bamboo groves and Tokyo’s parks, while traditional rain chains at temples create soothing melodies. Fewer tourists mean quieter visits to shrines like Fushimi Inari, and budget travelers benefit from lower prices.
Indoor activities abound, from exploring museums to relaxing in onsen hot springs or attending tea ceremonies. Seasonal firefly festivals add a magical touch, with glowing insects dancing in the drizzle. Hiking trails in Nikko or Hakone offer misty views, rewarding those with rain gear.
The rain brings out Japan’s cultural depth, with cozy cafés and vibrant markets offering authentic experiences. This season’s gentle showers create a romantic, reflective atmosphere, making it ideal for travelers seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty without the crowds, all while keeping costs low and experiences rich.
6. Philippines
The Philippines’ rainy season, from June to November, transforms its islands into a lush, tropical haven with fewer crowds and lower prices. Heavy rains, peaking in July and August, rejuvenate rice terraces in Banaue and waterfalls like Tinago Falls, creating stunning backdrops for explorers. Coastal areas like Palawan offer indoor markets and cultural festivals, while hot springs in Laguna provide warm escapes.
The rain enhances the vibrant greenery, making hiking and boat tours visually spectacular, though travelers should plan for occasional downpours. Smaller crowds allow for authentic interactions with locals, and budget accommodations make it wallet-friendly.
From exploring Spanish-era churches to savoring street food under awnings, the rainy season unveils a quieter, more intimate side of the Philippines. This destination shines for those seeking tropical adventures, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, with the rain adding a refreshing layer to the experience, perfect for travelers ready to embrace the wet weather.
5. Thailand
Thailand’s rainy season, from May to October, turns its landscapes into a green paradise, with September bringing the heaviest showers. The rain rejuvenates national parks like Khao Yai, where waterfalls roar and wildlife thrives. Bangkok’s temples, such as Wat Arun, glisten under wet skies, while floating markets offer vibrant scenes.
Indoor attractions, including museums and cooking classes, keep travelers engaged during downpours. Fewer tourists mean less crowded sites and lower prices for hotels and tours, making it a budget traveler’s dream. The rain adds a refreshing vibe to street food stalls and night markets, where aromas mingle with the scent of rain.
Hiking trails and river cruises provide adventurous options, with lush scenery as a reward. Thailand’s rainy season blends cultural richness with natural splendor, offering a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor activities for those ready to explore with an umbrella in hand, ensuring a memorable and affordable getaway.
4. Ireland
Ireland’s rainy season, year-round but wettest from October to January, enhances its nickname as the Emerald Isle. Rain paints the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry in vivid greens, creating dramatic vistas for hikers and photographers. Cozy pubs in Dublin and Galway offer warm retreats, with live music and hearty stews complementing the drizzly ambiance.
Castles like Blarney and Kilkenny provide indoor exploration, while museums delve into Celtic history. The rain adds a mystical quality to ancient ruins and rolling hills, with fewer tourists allowing for a more intimate experience. Off-season prices make accommodations and tours budget-friendly, appealing to savvy travelers.
Whether strolling through misty valleys or sipping Guinness by a fireplace, Ireland’s rainy season delivers a charming blend of nature and culture. The wet weather enhances the country’s storytelling spirit, making it a top destination for those seeking a cozy, immersive adventure in a lush, vibrant setting.
3. Vietnam
Vietnam’s rainy season, from May to October, transforms its landscapes into a vibrant tapestry, with northern regions like Hanoi and Sapa peaking in July and August. Lush rice paddies in the Mekong Delta and misty hills in Ha Giang create stunning vistas. Halong Bay’s limestone karsts shimmer under rain, and boat cruises offer serene exploration. Indoor markets in Ho Chi Minh City and cultural museums provide shelter, while street food stalls serve steaming pho under awnings.
Fewer crowds and lower prices make it budget-friendly, with authentic local interactions. Hiking trails in Sapa reward with misty views, and cultural festivals add vibrancy. The rain enhances Vietnam’s tropical charm, making it ideal for travelers seeking natural beauty and cultural immersion. From bustling cities to tranquil countryside, Vietnam’s rainy season offers a dynamic, affordable adventure for those ready to embrace the wet weather with a sense of wonder.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s rainy season, from May to November, brings its rainforests and beaches to life, with the “green season” (May to August) offering lighter showers and peak wet months (September to November) delivering lush landscapes. Wildlife, from monkeys to toucans, is more active, making jungle hikes and canopy tours thrilling.
Waterfalls like La Fortuna cascade with force, and white-water rafting becomes an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Fewer crowds mean quieter trails and lower prices for eco-lodges and tours, appealing to budget travelers. Indoor options, like coffee plantation visits or wildlife sanctuaries, balance outdoor exploration.
The rain enhances the vibrant greenery, creating a sensory overload of sights and sounds. From Arenal’s volcanic trails to Manuel Antonio’s beaches, Costa Rica’s rainy season offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a top choice for eco-tourists and nature lovers ready to embrace the wet weather for a transformative experience.
1. India (Kerala)
Topping the list, Kerala’s rainy season (June to September) turns this Indian gem into a magical, lush escape. The monsoon breathes life into its backwaters, hills, and beaches, creating a paradise for travelers. Houseboat cruises through Alleppey’s canals offer serene views of rain-soaked palms and rice paddies, while the Western Ghats’ misty trails beckon trekkers.
Waterfalls like Athirappilly roar with monsoon intensity, and tea plantations in Munnar glow emerald green. Cultural festivals, such as Onam, burst with color, showcasing Kerala’s traditions. Indoor activities, like Ayurvedic spas and spice plantation tours, provide cozy retreats.
Fewer tourists and lower prices make it budget-friendly, with authentic experiences at every turn. The rain adds a mystical rhythm, from the patter on banana leaves to the glow of fireflies at dusk. Kerala’s rainy season blends natural beauty, cultural depth, and affordability, making it the ultimate destination for travelers seeking a transformative, immersive adventure in a monsoon-kissed paradise.
drizzle, blankets rolling hills and historic castles in mist, creating a dramatic backdrop for explorers. Edinburgh’s cobbled streets glisten, while the Highlands’ rugged trails beckon hikers with waterproof boots. Warm up in cozy pubs or tour whisky distilleries, where the scent of aged barrels pairs perfectly with the sound of rain.
Museums in Glasgow and Edinburgh offer rich history for wet days, while the Isle of Skye’s cliffs shimmer under cloudy skies. Fewer crowds mean more space to soak in the atmosphere, and off-season prices make it wallet-friendly. The rain enhances Scotland’s raw beauty, turning every view into a postcard moment. Whether wandering through ancient ruins or sipping tea in a quaint café, travelers find the wet weather adds a layer of enchantment to this storied land, making it a top pick for rainy season adventures.
9. Iceland
Iceland’s rainy season, stretching year-round but peaking from October to April, turns its volcanic landscapes into a surreal wonderland. Rain glistens on black lava fields and amplifies the roar of waterfalls like Gullfoss and Skógafoss. Soaking in the Blue Lagoon feels even cozier under a drizzle, while Reykjavik’s museums and geothermal pools offer warm retreats.
Hiking trails through moss-covered valleys reward adventurers with misty vistas, and the rain often clears to reveal rainbows over glaciers. With fewer tourists in these months, attractions feel more intimate, and accommodation costs drop.
The unpredictable weather adds a thrilling edge, with rain enhancing the stark beauty of geysers and fjords. Indoor activities, like exploring Viking history or sipping coffee in quirky cafés, balance outdoor adventures. Iceland’s rainy season delivers a raw, elemental experience, where nature’s drama unfolds in full force, making it a must-visit for those craving a unique, budget-friendly escape filled with natural wonders and cultural gems.
8. Australia (Daintree Rainforest)
The Daintree Rainforest in Queensland, Australia, comes alive during its wet season from December to April, when heavy rains transform it into a lush, tropical paradise. Part of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area, this ancient rainforest bursts with vibrant greenery, swollen rivers, and cascading waterfalls like Mossman Gorge. Guided walks reveal rare wildlife, from cassowaries to tree kangaroos, thriving in the wet conditions.
River rafting and canopy tours offer thrilling ways to experience the deluge, while boardwalks keep explorers dry. The rain discourages peak-season crowds, offering a quieter, more immersive adventure, with lower accommodation rates. Coastal towns like Cairns provide indoor attractions, such as art galleries and cultural centers, for rainy afternoons.
The Daintree’s biodiversity shines brightest in the wet season, with rain enhancing the sensory experience of this tropical gem. For nature lovers seeking an authentic, budget-friendly escape, this rainforest delivers a front-row seat to one of the world’s oldest ecosystems, where rain is the heartbeat of adventure.
7. Japan
Japan’s rainy season, known as “tsuyu,” blankets the country from June to mid-July, turning gardens, temples, and mountains into lush, serene escapes. Rainfall enhances the emerald glow of Kyoto’s bamboo groves and Tokyo’s parks, while traditional rain chains at temples create soothing melodies. Fewer tourists mean quieter visits to shrines like Fushimi Inari, and budget travelers benefit from lower prices.
Indoor activities abound, from exploring museums to relaxing in onsen hot springs or attending tea ceremonies. Seasonal firefly festivals add a magical touch, with glowing insects dancing in the drizzle. Hiking trails in Nikko or Hakone offer misty views, rewarding those with rain gear.
The rain brings out Japan’s cultural depth, with cozy cafés and vibrant markets offering authentic experiences. This season’s gentle showers create a romantic, reflective atmosphere, making it ideal for travelers seeking cultural immersion and natural beauty without the crowds, all while keeping costs low and experiences rich.
6. Philippines
The Philippines’ rainy season, from June to November, transforms its islands into a lush, tropical haven with fewer crowds and lower prices. Heavy rains, peaking in July and August, rejuvenate rice terraces in Banaue and waterfalls like Tinago Falls, creating stunning backdrops for explorers. Coastal areas like Palawan offer indoor markets and cultural festivals, while hot springs in Laguna provide warm escapes.
The rain enhances the vibrant greenery, making hiking and boat tours visually spectacular, though travelers should plan for occasional downpours. Smaller crowds allow for authentic interactions with locals, and budget accommodations make it wallet-friendly.
From exploring Spanish-era churches to savoring street food under awnings, the rainy season unveils a quieter, more intimate side of the Philippines. This destination shines for those seeking tropical adventures, cultural immersion, and natural beauty, with the rain adding a refreshing layer to the experience, perfect for travelers ready to embrace the wet weather.
5. Thailand
Thailand’s rainy season, from May to October, turns its landscapes into a green paradise, with September bringing the heaviest showers. The rain rejuvenates national parks like Khao Yai, where waterfalls roar and wildlife thrives. Bangkok’s temples, such as Wat Arun, glisten under wet skies, while floating markets offer vibrant scenes.
Indoor attractions, including museums and cooking classes, keep travelers engaged during downpours. Fewer tourists mean less crowded sites and lower prices for hotels and tours, making it a budget traveler’s dream. The rain adds a refreshing vibe to street food stalls and night markets, where aromas mingle with the scent of rain.
Hiking trails and river cruises provide adventurous options, with lush scenery as a reward. Thailand’s rainy season blends cultural richness with natural splendor, offering a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor activities for those ready to explore with an umbrella in hand, ensuring a memorable and affordable getaway.
4. Ireland
Ireland’s rainy season, year-round but wettest from October to January, enhances its nickname as the Emerald Isle. Rain paints the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry in vivid greens, creating dramatic vistas for hikers and photographers. Cozy pubs in Dublin and Galway offer warm retreats, with live music and hearty stews complementing the drizzly ambiance.
Castles like Blarney and Kilkenny provide indoor exploration, while museums delve into Celtic history. The rain adds a mystical quality to ancient ruins and rolling hills, with fewer tourists allowing for a more intimate experience. Off-season prices make accommodations and tours budget-friendly, appealing to savvy travelers.
Whether strolling through misty valleys or sipping Guinness by a fireplace, Ireland’s rainy season delivers a charming blend of nature and culture. The wet weather enhances the country’s storytelling spirit, making it a top destination for those seeking a cozy, immersive adventure in a lush, vibrant setting.
3. Vietnam
Vietnam’s rainy season, from May to October, transforms its landscapes into a vibrant tapestry, with northern regions like Hanoi and Sapa peaking in July and August. Lush rice paddies in the Mekong Delta and misty hills in Ha Giang create stunning vistas. Halong Bay’s limestone karsts shimmer under rain, and boat cruises offer serene exploration. Indoor markets in Ho Chi Minh City and cultural museums provide shelter, while street food stalls serve steaming pho under awnings. Fewer crowds and lower prices make it budget-friendly, with authentic local interactions. Hiking trails in Sapa reward with misty views, and cultural festivals add vibrancy. The rain enhances Vietnam’s tropical charm, making it ideal for travelers seeking natural beauty and cultural immersion. From bustling cities to tranquil countryside, Vietnam’s rainy season offers a dynamic, affordable adventure for those ready to embrace the wet weather with a sense of wonder.
2. Costa Rica
Costa Rica’s rainy season, from May to November, brings its rainforests and beaches to life, with the “green season” (May to August) offering lighter showers and peak wet months (September to November) delivering lush landscapes. Wildlife, from monkeys to toucans, is more active, making jungle hikes and canopy tours thrilling.
Waterfalls like La Fortuna cascade with force, and white-water rafting becomes an adrenaline-pumping adventure. Fewer crowds mean quieter trails and lower prices for eco-lodges and tours, appealing to budget travelers. Indoor options, like coffee plantation visits or wildlife sanctuaries, balance outdoor exploration.
The rain enhances the vibrant greenery, creating a sensory overload of sights and sounds. From Arenal’s volcanic trails to Manuel Antonio’s beaches, Costa Rica’s rainy season offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it a top choice for eco-tourists and nature lovers ready to embrace the wet weather for a transformative experience.
1. India (Kerala)
Topping the list, Kerala’s rainy season (June to September) turns this Indian gem into a magical, lush escape. The monsoon breathes life into its backwaters, hills, and beaches, creating a paradise for travelers. Houseboat cruises through Alleppey’s canals offer serene views of rain-soaked palms and rice paddies, while the Western Ghats’ misty trails beckon trekkers.
Waterfalls like Athirappilly roar with monsoon intensity, and tea plantations in Munnar glow emerald green. Cultural festivals, such as Onam, burst with color, showcasing Kerala’s traditions. Indoor activities, like Ayurvedic spas and spice plantation tours, provide cozy retreats.
Fewer tourists and lower prices make it budget-friendly, with authentic experiences at every turn. The rain adds a mystical rhythm, from the patter on banana leaves to the glow of fireflies at dusk. Kerala’s rainy season blends natural beauty, cultural depth, and affordability, making it the ultimate destination for travelers seeking a transformative, immersive adventure in a monsoon-kissed paradise.
