The Chinese zodiac, an important part of Chinese culture, is based on a rotating 12-year system that assigns an animal sign to those born in each year. Similar to the Western zodiac system, people born under a specific sign are said to have distinct personality traits that set them apart from each other. If you have been looking for vacation ideas that are more likely to suit you as per your Chinese Zodiac sign, give this article a read. We have curated stunning cities, specific to your Chinese zodiac, that might ignite the travel bug in you and take you on a fulfilling journey unlike any other.
Here’s our story on 25 places to visit in 2025.
How do Chinese zodiac signs determine travel preferences?
The inherent personality traits associated with each Chinese zodiac sign are said to determine travel preferences. For instance, while some signs lean more towards destinations that promise tons of adventure, other signs might like to spend the day relaxing on the beach, while those born under other signs might opt for cultural immersions. Curious people might opt for destinations that offer a chance to explore historic ruins, while those with a social nature might go for beach towns. Those who appreciate natural beauty might opt for national parks or destinations that promise stunning landscapes. Either way, there is something or the other for people born under the Chinese zodiac signs.
Places to visit based on your Chinese zodiac signs
The Rat: Dubai, UAE
1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020
Always eager for new experiences, those born in the Year of the Rat prefer a variety of experiences. A vibrant medley of activities and places to visit is likely to suit them best. In 2025, one of the most perfect destinations for them can be Dubai, in the UAE. Dubai, with its effervescent charm, offers myriad new things to try, from skydiving to day cruises to dune safaris to camping under the stars in a desert.
- Best time to visit: November to March
- Things to do: Enjoy a hot air balloon ride, go on a dune-bashing trip, and explore Dubai’s top theme parks.
- Best food to try: Luqaimat (doughnut-like dumplings served with a date sauce), Harees ( a type of Emirate porridge), and Shawarma.
- Best things to buy: Electronic items, gold jewellery, and perfumes.
The Ox: Queenstown in New Zealand
1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021
Said to be one of the most dependable signs of the Chinese zodiac, The Ox is said to be diligent and looking for the perfect balance of luxury and stunning views of nature. Those born under this Chinese zodiac sign are likely to find Queenstown in New Zealand as one of the best places to visit in the world in 2025. Queenstown offers a vibrant food and wine scene, scenic views, hiking opportunities, superb local markets, and plenty of ice bars.
Here’s an itinerary to inspire your trip to New Zealand.
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Things to do: Cruise across Lake Wakatipu, wonder at the alpine scenery from the Skyline Gondola, and go bungee jumping.
- Best food to try: Grilled mussels, poutines, and juicy burgers.
- Best things to buy: Organic Manuka honey, semi-precious gemstone jewellery, and woollen items.
The Tiger: Reykjavik, Iceland
1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022
A Nordic gem, Reykjavik in Iceland is an ideal place to visit for those born under the sign of the Tiger, according to the Chinese zodiac. People born under this sign love adventure and new challenges, and are always looking to have experiences that enrich their travels. In Iceland, visitors will find ancient ruins that trace the country’s Viking heritage, as well as get to explore its dramatic landscape, from gigantic glaciers to volcanoes and hot springs to the spectacular Aurora Borealis.
- Best time to visit: June to August
- Things to do: Go snorkelling in the Silfra Fissure, spot whales and other marine life, and Swim at Nauthólsvík Geothermal Beach.
- Best food to try: Lambasteik, rye bread, and smoked salmon.
- Best things to buy: Puffin toys, traditional Icelandic sweaters, and flavoured salt.
The Rabbit: Provence, France
1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023
Those born under the sign of The Rabbit as per the Chinese zodiac are said to have a calm demeanour. Their empathetic and artistic tendencies often take them to places that mirror their peaceful nature. For them, Provence in France can be the perfect place to enjoy a stunning vacation in 2025. Fragrant lavender fields, olive groves, vineyards, and the breathtaking beauty of the French countryside and the French Alps are sure to make for an incredible trip.
Elevate your trip with our story on exploring rural France.
- Best time to visit: March to June, and September to November
- Things to do: Go on a vineyard and winery tour, explore the quaint local villages, and take the perfect pictures at the Lavender Fields of Valensole.
- Best food to try: Ratatouille, Bouillabaisse (a stew made with snails and vegetables), and truffle omelette.
- Best things to buy: Lavender-infused skincare products, nougat, and utensils made of olive wood.
The Dragon: Faroe Islands
1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024
Natural-born leaders, full of energy, and enthusiastic for new adventures are how you can define individuals born in the Year of the Dragon. Faroe Islands, an autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark, can be a superb getaway for those born under this sign. Bird-watching opportunities, hiking trails, volcanic islands, and magnificent waterfalls make the Faroe Islands a treasure trove of new, thrilling experiences.
- Best time to visit: June to August
- Things to do: Go puffin spotting, spend time at Kalsoy Island, and enjoy a variety of treks to waterfalls, lighthouses, viewpoints and more.
- Best food to try: Skerpikjøt (aged, dried mutton), smoked mackerel, and grilled haddock.
- Best things to buy: Woollen clothes, cut glass art, and dried meat
The Snake: The Bahamas
1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025
Said to be wise, adaptable, and a bit of a wild soul, those born in the Year of the Snake will appreciate the stunningly beautiful beaches of The Bahamas. This island country is famed for marine life, coral reefs, opportunities for adventure activities, and a host of entertainment options, from bars to markets to golfing and more. Some of the best places to visit in The Bahamas include Harbour Island, Pink Sands Beach, Green Turtle Cay, Freeport, Pig Beach, Bimini, and Nassau, its capital.
Best time to visit: November to April
Things to do: Explore Clifton Heritage National Park, check out the Pirates of Nassau Museum, and enjoy beach-hopping.
Best food to try: Cracked conch, fish stew, and rum cake.
Best things to buy: Pine tree dolls as souvenirs, batik prints, and straw sombreros.
The Horse: Singapore
1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014
Strong, independent, and adventurous is how those born in the Year of the Horse can be described. Those born under this sign love to explore new horizons and chase exciting experiences. An ideal destination for them would be Singapore, where tons of thrilling activities await. You can visit indoor theme parks for some, while some can be enjoyed out in the open, where the fabulous skyline of Singapore awaits the most ethereal photographs.
- Best time to visit: February to May
- Things to do: Go bungee jumping, enjoy indoor skydiving, and explore Singapore Botanic Garden.
- Best food to try: Chilli Crab, Asam Laksa Soup, and Tahu Telur (bean curd omelette).
- Best things to buy: Orchid perfumes, Kaya (Coconut Jam), and Singapore Pressed Pennies.
The Goat: Cape Town, South Africa
1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015
Happy to embrace a laid-back but structured holiday, those born under the sign of the Goat according to the Chinese zodiac system are said to be calm, compassionate, and have a love for socialising. Cape Town is the ideal destination for them, offering an eclectic mix of heritage, culture, nature, and wildlife. This multifaceted destination is home to beaches, mountains, hidden bays, and more, sure to ignite the fancies of those born under this sign.
- Best time to visit: December to February
- Things to do: Enjoy scenic views from the Cape of Good Hope, pay a visit to Robben Island, and spend time at Boulders Beach.
- Best food to try: Fried calamari, a Gatsby sandwich, and Biltong (cured meat).
- Best things to buy: Kalahari salt, leather bags, and Rooibos Tea.
Monkey: Siem Reap, Cambodia
1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016
Clever, curious, and playful, those born under the Year of the Monkey are sure to revel in thrilling experiences, off-beat destinations, and opportunities for exploration. Siem Reap in Cambodia, home to the Angkor Wat temple complex, can be an amazing city to explore. From ancient temples to walking streets to local markets to a landmine museum, Siem Reap holds a host of experiences for those willing to try new things.
Here’s our guide on Angkor Wat to fuel your travels.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Things to do: Sample unique street food, enjoy a sunset cruise on the Tonle Sap River, and explore the floating villages nearby.
- Best food to try: Fermented rice noodles with fish curry, Bamboo sticky rice, and Khmer Cakes.
- Best things to buy: White peppercorns, scarves made from Cambodian silk, and wooden carvings.
The Rooster: Bali, Indonesia
1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017
Perfectionist, hard-working, and detail-oriented, The Rooster is likely to favour destinations that fuel their passion for seeing everything organised. Bali can be the ideal destination for those born in the Year of the Rooster. The stunning vibrant green rice terraces are sure to be a welcome sight for The Rooster, along with the picturesque beaches. From cultural festivals to diving opportunities, Bali has a lot to offer and those born under this sign will love organising their itinerary with the myriad things to do here.
- Best time to visit: April to October
- Things to do: Go volcano hiking, enjoy stunning seascapes from Kelingking Beach, and check out the adorable population of Bali Bird Park.
- Best food to try: Martabak (a type of stuffed pancake), Nasi Goreng, and Pisang Goreng (Indonesian Fried Banana)
- Best things to buy: Silk scarves, brass oil lamps, and ikat woven sarongs.
The Dog: Rajasthan, India
1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018
Those born under this sign are said to be reliable, honest, and down-to-earth, preferring larger-than-life destinations when they take a break. Rajasthan in India can offer you a royal experience, from staying in opulent palaces to eating off silver utensils. You can choose to spend a night under the stars in the desert, go shopping at local markets, laze around palace gardens, or take part in cultural festivals.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Things to do: Explore the state’s national parks, take a tour of Sam Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer, and enjoy a lakeside retreat in Udaipur.
- Best food to try: Pyaz Kachori, Ghevar (milk-based dessert), and Mirchi Bada (chilli fritter).
- Best things to buy: Traditional embellished footwear, leather wallets, and handmade jewellery.
Shop the best travel experiences here
The Pig: Athens, Greece
1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
Easy-going, compassionate, and affectionate, The Pig is the last sign of the Chinese zodiac system. Friendly destinations full of natural wonders and historical spots are ideal for them, such as Athens in Greece. A city deeply steeped in history, Athens is home to a wide variety of experiences, from a bustling street art scene to food tours to evenings spent tasting local wine at a nearby tavern to exploration of ancient ruins. Lush gardens and theme parks add to the fun aspect of being in Athens.
- Best time to visit: April to June, and September to October
- Things to do: Take a Hop-On Hop-Off tour of Athens, take in the sweeping views of Athens from Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and head over to Varvakios Central Municipal Market to pick out the freshest seafood.
- Best food to try: Stuffed grape leaves, Fasolada (traditional bean soup), and Moussaka (a baked dish of eggplant and ground meat).
- Best things to buy: Leather sandals, organic olive oil, and Greek wine.
(Feature image credit: kallerna, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons)
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Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Iceland, Faroe Island, and The Bahamas are some of the best adventure travel destinations in the world.
The Bahamas, Cape Town, and Bali are some of the best beach destinations in the world.
Bali, Dubai, and Singapore are some of the best destinations across the world for wellness experiences.
The Tiger, The Snake, and The Dragon are some of the most adventurous Chinese zodiac signs.
The Ox is said to be one of the most luxurious travellers according to the Chinese zodiac system.
Written By
Esha Dasgupta
Senior Digital Writer – Growth, Travel
Esha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked ..Read More
