15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January
Uncover the 15 best places to visit in Europe in January for the perfect start to the year.
January marks the beginning of the new year and is a great time to venture out to travel. During this month prices for hotels, flights, and tours are often much cheaper than in spring, summer, and fall months making it ideal for exploring new places without breaking the bank. The one downside is that the weather can be colder or more rainy than other seasons but still not an issue.
I love traveling in Europe in January. During this time the Christmas crowds have cleared the weather is chilly and romantic in Northern Europe while remaining mild in Southern Europe. It is also the perfect time to explore top tourist attractions in Europe without tons of people also there.
Below are the best places to visit in Europe in January!
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In This Post
15 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January Overview
☀️ Warmest Place to Visit in Europe in January: The Canary Islands
🎿 Best Outdoor Activities in Europe in January: Val Thorens, France / Grindelwald, Switzerland
💐 Where to Visit for Special Events: Amsterdam, Netherlands (National Tulip Day) / Malaga, Spain (Three Kings’ Day (Dia de Reyes Magos)
❄️ The Best Winter Wonderland: Rovenmi, Finland
🥾 Best Place to Visit in Europe in January for Winter Hiking: Tromsø, Norway
Annecy, France
Annecy is easily one of the best places to visit in Europe in January, offering an enchanting winter wonderland experience. Known as the “Venice of the Alps,” Annecy has a unique charm with its winding canals, cobblestone streets, and pastel-colored buildings.
January is a great time to visit because the city transforms into a cozy romantic town, where the crowds thin out allowing you to soak in its beauty without the huge crowds.
Temperatures: The chilly weather adds to the beauty, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F).
Festivals/Events: No specific events.
💡 TIP: I LOVE Annecy but it can get INCREDIBLY busy in the high season. To enjoy this European gem without all the people visiting in January is a great idea.
Top Tours & Experiences
Malaga, Spain
⭐️ Malaga is one of the best places to visit in Europe in January to experience a special cultural event – Three Kings’ Day (Dia de Reyes Magos) ⭐️
Malaga, Spain, is a hidden gem among the 15 best places to visit in Europe in January.
The sunny days and clear skies make it the perfect escape from colder European destinations. You can walk along the waterfront, explore the old town, and sit outside to enjoy tapas and paella! Malaga in January provides a unique blend of cultural exploration and winter sun, making it one of the top places for a winter sun holiday in Europe.
January also sees fewer tourists making it an excellent time to enjoy Malaga’s attractions and local hotspots without the crowds.
Temperatures: The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F).
Festivals/Events: In January, the main event in Malaga is typically the celebration of Three Kings’ Day (Dia de Reyes Magos). This festival is one of the most significant and colorful in Malaga, with parades, processions, and street celebrations.
Top Tours & Experiences
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is an Austrian gem offering the perfect mix of cultural richness and a calm winter atmosphere. January welcomes a quieter, less crowded atmosphere, allowing you to explore its palaces, museums, and charming cafes without huge crowds.
Temperatures: The weather in Vienna in January is crisp, with average temperatures ranging from -3°C to 2°C (26°F to 36°F).
Festivals/Events: Vienna’s main event is the New Year’s Concert (Neujahrskonzert), performed by the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
Top Tours & Experiences
Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik may seem like an unconventional winter destination when in reality it offers a unique and unforgettable experience during this season. One of the main reasons to visit in January is the opportunity to witness the amazing Northern Lights, a natural light display that is only visible in the winter months.
Temperatures: Average temperatures range from -2°C to 3°C (28°F to 37°F). Whenever I tell people that the low temperatures in Iceland only go down to around -2°C they are shocked at how “mild” it is for such a Northern travel destination! I love it because you can enjoy a snowy, chilly winter getaway without being freezing!
Festivals/Events: Reykjavik hosts the Reykjavik International Games, a sporting event that attracts athletes from around the world to compete in various sports and competitions.
Top Tours & Experiences
Grindelwald, Switzerland / Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland
⭐️ Grindelwald & Lauterbrunnen are some of the best places to visit in Europe in January for outdoor activities ⭐️
Two of the best places, that I think MUST be visited together, are the magical villages of Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen! This time of year transforms these Swiss gems into a winter wonderland. Here you can enjoy picturesque landscapes, snow-covered mountains, and cozy, charming villages.
💡 TIP: I suggest spending 2-5 days in this region to see and admire the Swiss beauty fully.
Temperatures: The weather in Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen in January ranges from -6°C to 1°C (21°F to 34°F). The cold weather is ideal for outdoor activities like skiing and snowboarding. There is also the chance you will see the frozen waterfalls of Lauterbrunnen Valley, an amazing sight to see!
Festivals/Events: No specific events.
Top Tours & Experiences
Rovaniemi, Finland
⭐️ Rovaniemi is one of the best places to visit in Europe in January to experience a winter wonderland holiday ⭐️
Rovaniemi, located in the heart of Finnish Lapland, is easily one of the best places to visit in Europe in January. This Arctic wonderland offers an experience like no other, especially during the winter months.
Temperatures: The weather in Rovaniemi in January is very cold, with average temperatures ranging from -14°C to -7°C (7°F to 19°F). However, these cold temperatures create the perfect conditions to experience the Northern Lights and snow!
Festivals/Events: In January, Rovaniemi hosts the renowned Arctic Circle Snowmobile Park, offering snowmobile adventures through the Arctic landscapes.
Top Tours & Experiences
Rome Italy
Rome may not be a traditional winter destination but it still offers a unique experience during this season some people prefer it over the summer experience.
Temperatures: The weather in Rome in January is relatively mild compared to many other European destinations, with average temperatures ranging from 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F). At the same time, it may be cool the sky is often clear and sunny. This is ideal for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks without the scorching summer heat or the crowds.
Festivals/Events: No special festivals/events.
Top Tours & Experiences
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is one of the best places to visit in Europe in January, offering a unique winter experience. Exploring Prague’s cozy pubs and restaurants, sipping on hot mulled wine, and admiring the city’s Gothic and Baroque architecture in the crisp winter air creates a truly magical experience.
Temperatures: In January, Prague experiences chilly weather with average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 2°C (28°F to 36°F). The city may have a light layer of snow, but the probability varies if there will or will not be snow.
Festivals/Events: Prague hosts the Prague Ice Festival (Pražský ledový festival), featuring stunning ice sculptures and ice-skating rinks in the city center, including the Old Town Square.
Top Tours & Experiences
Val Thorens, France
⭐️ Val Thorens is one of the best places to visit in Europe in January for outdoor activities ⭐️
Val Thorens located in the French Alps is one of the best places to visit in Europe in January for winter sports lovers.
Temperatures: The weather in Val Thorens in January ranges from -5°C to -2°C (23°F to 28°F). These temperatures ensure excellent snow conditions for skiing and snowboarding.
Festivals/Events: Val Thorens Ski & Boarderweek. This event combines skiing, snowboarding, music, and entertainment. It is a super fun way to be outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the French Alps in a lively environment.
The Canary Islands
⭐️ The Canary Islands are the warmest place to visit in Europe in January ⭐️
The Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, is a sunny paradise offering a welcome escape from the cold European winter.
Temperatures: In January, the weather in the Canary Islands is a major draw, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F). This weather in the Canary Islands is often referred to as the “Eternal Spring,” making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and water sports.
Top Tours & Experiences
Amsterdam, Netherlands
⭐️ Amsterdam hosts one of the best events in January in Europe: National Tulip Day ⭐️
Amsterdam is one of the best places to visit in Europe in January and all year round. I lived in Amsterdam for 5 years and have found every season has its pros and cons – but what remains is that the city is absolutely stunning every single day.
I always tell people to travel to Amsterdam and January is a great time for fewer people, but hopefully, you won’t mind thecolder weather.
Temperatures: The weather in Amsterdam in January is chilly but manageable, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 6°C (32°F to 43°F). It will SOMETIMES snow in Amsterdam and when it does it is amazing! Snow is an unmatched atmosphere in Amsterdam and the crisp air adds to the magic of its picturesque streets and waterways.
Festivals/Events: Amsterdam hosts the National Tulip Day in January, where thousands of tulips are placed on Dam Square, kicking off the tulip season in the Netherlands.
Top Tours & Experiences
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is known for its stunning architecture and rich history and offers a unique charm during the winter months. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in January for many reasons!
Temperatures: In January temperatures range from -3°C to 2°C (27°F to 36°F). While it might be chilly, the city’s thermal baths are even more inviting and provide a unique way to beat the cold.
Festivals/Events: Budapest International Documentary Festival (BIDF).
Top Tours & Experiences
Herceg Novi, Montenegro
Herceg Novi, a charming coastal town in Montenegro, is one of the most beautiful places in Montenegro and one of the best places to visit in Europe in January.
Temperatures: The weather in Herceg Novi in January is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 13°C (46°F to 55°F).
Festivals/Events: Mimosa Festival. A vibrant celebration of the blooming mimosa flowers. This festival features parades, live music, and art exhibitions.
Top Tours & Experiences
Tromsø, Norway
⭐️ Tromsø is the best place to visit in Europe in January for winter hikes ⭐️
Tromsø, Norway, is one of the best places to visit in Europe in January that offers a uniquely authentic Norwegian winter experience.
Temperatures: January in Tromsø has average temperatures ranging from -5°C to -2°C (23°F to 28°F). It is quite a cold winter travel destination but provides excellent conditions for experiencing the Northern Lights, winter hiking, and cozy cabin stays.
Festivals/Events: Tromsø International Film Festival (TIFF).
Top Tours & Experiences
Athens, Greece
Athens is an ancient city that offers a unique and tranquil experience during the winter months. Exploring Athens without the hot summer sun is a much more enjoyable experience. Plus seeing some of the world’s most famous landmarks like the Acropolis without hundreds of people is such a special experience.
Temperatures: Ranging from 8°C to 14°C (46°F to 57°F).
Festivals/Events: No specific events.
Top Tours & Experiences
Travel Insurance
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