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13 Best places to visit in January in Europe

ByAnya

What are the best places to visit in January in Europe?

January is one of my favorite months to travel, and there are some good reasons for that: it’s the cheapest month for accommodations and attractions, and you can experience the magic of the winter season while the worst of the rain of the December month is over. Most importantly, you get to enjoy the most iconic sights without bumping into crowds.

However, it’s always a challenge to find a good place to travel to at that time, because let’s be real – traveling in January means you’re missing out on the summer lovely climate. So you might be thinking: the weather will be terrible in January, is it worth it? The answer to that is: Yes, yes it is. The lower costs will allow you to go to places you might not be able to afford otherwise, and the fewer crowds will guarantee an overall much better experience when you’re there.

In addition to these benefits, January marks the peak of the best of Europe’s seasons: surfing season in Nazaré, Northern Lights and whale-watching Season in Tromsø, ski season in Zakopane… and the list goes on and on.

You just have to pick the right destination and the right vibe and you’re good to go.

Over my many, many years of traveling all over the continent, I made that list of the best places to visit in January in Europe. So here it is for you guys!

Hi! I’m Anya, founder of the travel blog Stop Going to Paris which focuses on underrated cities in Europe. I’m a passionate traveler but above all, a passionate adventurer always looking for the hidden gems that deserve more love.

After 10 years and 70+ destinations, I can help you plan your European trip: book a call with me. It includes a full itinerary with unique destinations, transportation, accommodation and activities.

Fun fact, I live in… drumroll… Paris! That’s why the name of the blog is funny.

Zakopane, Poland – opening of ski season

At the foot of the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane, Poland’s most popular ski resort and one of the best places to visit in Europe, is a great option for a trip in January. Think crisp mountain air, cozy wooden cottages, hearty meals and fantastic hikes. The trails are quiet and stunning, showing off the winter colors, and you can walk on the frozen Morskie Oko Lake.

January is peak ski season as well, while still remaining crowd-free. Zakopane is still a relatively unknown destination, so it mostly receives Polish tourists. January being a working and schooling month, you can be assured to have the whole town almost for yourself.

Places to stay in Zakopane:

Photo by Anya Rahmoune from Stop Going to Paris

Tenerife, Canary Islands – warm weather and beaches

Just like Madeira, Tenerife is the place to be if you’re looking for a dose of sunshine and warmth to break up the cold of January. The island offers perfect beach weather when much of Europe is cooling down. Imagine lounging on golden sands with the sound of waves lapping at your feet, a far cry from the chilly winds elsewhere. The volcanic beaches, like Playa del Duque and Playa de Las Teresitas, are ideal for soaking up the sun, and the crystal-clear waters are just calling for a swim. You get to spend your days barefoot and carefree and recharge in the sunshine.

But it’s not just the beaches that make Tenerife the perfect winter escape. The island is full of adventures, from visiting charming villages like La Orotava to hiking Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, to exploring the lush forests of Anaga. Teide National Park is a must-visit with its volcanic landscapes and stunning trails that are honestly more enjoyable in the cooler January weather than in the summer (far, far too hot in July-August).

Evenings in Tenerife are just as special, with plenty of oceanfront restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Atlantic. The island’s warm, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, and by the time you leave, you’ll be feeling completely rejuvenated.

Places to stay in Tenerife:

  • Sweet Home Masca. Sweet Home Masca is a country house a few kilometers away from Los Gigantes that offers the most gorgeous view of the mountains. My top recommendation in Tenerife! I cannot recommend it enough.
  • Hotel Principe Paz, for a comfortable yet affordable hotel.
  • Hotel Cleopatra Palace, for a luxury experience. Cleopatra is situated opposite El Camisón Beach, in southern Tenerife. It features a spa, and an outdoor pool with a large sun terrace, surrounded by magnificent Roman columns and marble statues of gods.
  • Drago Hostel for a good-value hostel in the city center of Icod de Los Vinos.
Image by Ray Bilcliff from Pexels

Tromsø, Iceland – Arctic adventures: chase the Northern Lights and the Whales

If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing the magical northern lights, January in Tromsø, Norway, is the time to make it happen. Deep in the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is the gateway to one of nature’s most incredible displays – the aurora borealis. The long, clear nights of January create the perfect backdrop for this stunning spectacle.

I know I don’t need to sell you on the Northern Lights – but still, picture this: you’re looking up, the sky is very, very dark – except for the greens, purples, and blues that shine in the night. It’s the kind of experience that will leave you speechless, with memories that last a lifetime. I found myself standing there, mouth wide open, in total awe of what I was seeing.

January is peak Northern Lights Season in Tromsø – but also whale-watching season. Because yes, Tromsø is more than the Northern Lights (though they’re a huge draw). The city offers some of the best opportunities to spot whales, humpbacks or orcas in their natural habitat, and seeing them in the wild is a truly special experience as well.

The town itself is full of Arctic charm and adventure. During the day, you can explore the surrounding wilderness on dog sledding or snowshoeing excursions, visit the Arctic Cathedral, enjoy reindeer and wildlife sightseeing, do boat tours and fjords cruises, and even fish! Or you could simply soak in the wintry air while taking in the stunning fjords and snow-capped mountains – in a place like Tromsø, that’s all you need really.

Places to stay in Tromsø:

Image by Bjørn Are With Andreassen from Unsplash

Trieste, Italy – perfect long weekend destination

Trieste, located in Italy’s northeastern corner, is a gem for anyone looking for a relaxed yet enriching January getaway, as well as being one of the best cities to visit in Italy. Its unique mix of Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian influences makes it feel like three trips in one. It’s also the Italian coffee capital – what’s not to like? When I was there, I loved nothing more than spending my mornings wandering along the Grand Canal, coffee in hand, admiring the city and the Adriatic Sea.

I highly recommend a visit of Piazza Unità d’Italia, the city’s grand and open square that practically spills into the Sea. It’s one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, with elegant buildings and gorgeous sea views. I always find myself strolling down the Molo Audace pier to breathe in the fresh sea air. And because I’m right by the sea, lunch always involves some fresh seafood – Trieste is known for its delicious dishes that merge Italian flavors with a touch of Central European flair.

Places to stay in Trieste:

  • B&B Filoksenia is a gorgeous bed and breakfast located in the city center that has great value for the price.
  • Savoia Excelsior Palace Trieste is a 4-star hotel set in a historic building with 19th-century architecture, it offers elegant rooms with marble bathrooms and overlooks the Bay of Trieste in the city center. The bar also has the most beautiful panoramic views of the Gulf of Trieste.
  • Hotello Hostel is a good hostel option since it provides clean rooms, a lovely socializing space and a buffet or gluten-free breakfast. It even has karaoke nights!

Nazaré, Portugal – peak surfing season in the international surf capital

Nazaré, international surfing capital and one of the best places to visit in Portugal, is the place to be in January if you love big waves and surfing. January is in the middle of surfing season: that’s the time when the waves reach their peaks, with pro surfers from all over the globe gathering to test their skills to break records after records.

Even if you’re not into surfing yourself, watching from the cliffs as the pros ride waves as tall as buildings is a sight that’ll give you goosebumps. Plus, the salty sea air and rugged coastline make for some incredible nature walks, with the Atlantic Ocean crashing below you. Find a cozy spot, grab a hot coffee and pastéis, and enjoy the show – it’s the kind of adrenaline-filled experience that’ll make you feel alive.

Places to stay in Nazaré:

  • Ohai Nazaré Outdoor Resort offers chalets and apartments set among wild pine trees and features a heated outdoor pool, an aquatic park and a hot tub.
  • Home Sweet Praia, an apartment in the city center with a great quality/price ratio.
  • Hotel Mar Bravo offers a fantastic luxury experience by the beach. Lovely sea views!
  • Zulla Nazaré`s Surf Village is a hostel and hotel with an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a bar 500m from Nazare Beach.
Photo by Anya Rahmoune from Stop Going to Paris

Ghent, Belgium – the best January day trip

If you’re craving a January day trip that feels straight out of a storybook, Ghent is the place. This gem is all about medieval charm with just the right amount of modern twist. Quite in the same style as Bruges – but I’ll choose Ghent over Bruges any day of the week: Ghent is bigger, more fairly priced, and there are more things to do in Ghent. Overall, it is the more interesting city in my opinion.

The perfect day trip itinerary in Ghent goes like this: you have coffee at Sint-Veerleplein Square, and then spend the day exploring and taking in the views and the pulse of the place. The crisp winter air makes it the perfect time to wander along the canals. At lunch, you grab a bowl of traditional waterzooi and a local craft beer to warm up. You spend the afternoon visiting Gravensteen castle and climbing the Belfry to enjoy the best views of the city. By evening, you’ve had your waffle and chocolate, and you’re ready to cozy up in a café or catch some live music to finish it off.

Places to stay in Ghent:

  • Getaway Studios Gent is a comfortable and clean hostel with all the amenities, including big-sized rooms, a nice kitchenette and some allergy-free and soundproof units for those who need it.
  • Comic Art Hotel is a 4-star hotel located in the city center, on a calmer street by the canal. Spotlessly clean, a great bar, and reception speak several languages. Overall a great experience for a night in Ghent!
  • NH Gent Belfort is a centrally-located 4-star hotel with an on-site gym and sauna.
  • KaBa Hostel is a beautiful, clean hostel with a great breakfast option. It also features a beautiful garden with a terrace.
Photo by Anya Rahmoune from Stop Going to Paris

Florence, Italy – the shoulder season in a city otherwise overcrowded and overpriced

In January, Florence is left for those who appreciate the art of slow travel – when the height of the tourist season fades, the city feels more intimate and relaxed. You can finally take your time admiring the stunning art and architecture without feeling rushed. Imagine standing in front of Michelangelo’s David or Botticelli’s Birth of Venus at the Uffizi Gallery, fully immersed in the moment.

Fantastic, right? Well, it’s only possible in those winter days when people usually avoid Italy. That’s why I always visit Florence and similar cities during winter – otherwise, I would never get to appreciate in peace what I came for. For me, looking at art is a contemplative activity, so the last thing I want when I do it is constantly bumping into people and their selfie sticks.

January is also the perfect time because the soft winter light makes everything – from the terracotta rooftops to the marble statues – seem even more beautiful. The Arno River reflects the cold hues of the season, and the winter colors creeping up the hillsides around the city are simply breathtaking. And don’t forget about the sunsets with the most incredible golden-hour light when you’re seated at Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

The city feels like it’s all yours. The lines at the museums are shorter, and the piazzas have a more relaxed, enjoyable pace. It’s the perfect time to get lost in the city and indulge in Tuscan cuisine in hidden trattorias. There’s nothing quite like warming up with a bowl of ribollita (a traditional Tuscan soup) or savoring a glass of Chianti while watching the world go by.

Places to stay in Florence:

Photo by Anya Rahmoune from Stop Going to Paris

Madeira, Portugal – island life and winter sun in the “Hawaii of Europe”

Nicknamed “The Hawaii of Europe”, Madeira is the best way to live the island life in Europe and to escape from the gloomy weather of January days. This Portuguese island is like a little piece of heaven with year-round warm weather, as it is actually closer to Morocco than it is to mainland Portugal. If you’re tired of the rain and need some winter sun, Madeira is it.

You get to explore the island’s natural beauty, from the towering cliffs of Cabo Girão to the Levada walks (official trails) that wind through lush, green forests and lead to hidden waterfalls. In January, the weather is perfect for enjoying outdoor activities, whether it’s a boat trip to spot dolphins and whales or a scenic drive along the island’s roads. You can spend your days exploring hidden coves, relaxing on the island’s pebbly beaches, or enjoying a refreshing dip in the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz.

In the evenings, you can wind down for a hard day of exploring: enjoy your glass of the island’s famous wine while watching the sunset over the ocean, and treat yourself to a seafood feast in one of the many coastal restaurants. For me, Madeira’s warm, laid-back atmosphere is the perfect antidote to the cooler weather back home. Life here is a little slower, a little sunnier, and a lot more relaxed.

Places to stay in Madeira:

  • Quinta da Bela Vista is a beautiful property with impeccable service. The setting and the views make it my pick!
  • Saccharum – Resort and Spa – Savoy Signature is a luxury 5-star design hotel located on Calheta Beach, between the mountains of Madeira and the Atlantic Ocean. It features a rooftop infinity pool, conference rooms, a buffet, an à-la-carte restaurant and four bars.
  • Sentido Galosol is a beach resort in Caniço that has everything: restaurants, bars, 3 different pools, a gym, and a spa with massage services and beauty treatments. The rooms have a balcony with panoramic sea views. You can’t go wrong with this one!
  • Casa das Proteas. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the location is excellent as a starting point for several hikes. It includes: an outdoor pool, a game room, a bar and a living room with a cozy fireplace for cooler nights.
Image by Michał from Pixabay

Edinburgh, Scotland – Gothic and Gloomy Charm

Edinburgh is definitely a January city – moody skies, ancient stone buildings, and an air of mystery hanging over the city. It’s the perfect time to dive into Edinburgh’s dark academia vibes, whether you’re exploring the shadowy closes of the Old Town or taking a stroll down the windswept paths of Arthur’s Seat.

The historic Edinburgh Castle, located high on its rocky outcrop, seems even more dramatic than usual in the winter mist. It’s a fantastic experience, to spend the afternoon exploring the castle, soaking in centuries of history. For something a bit more offbeat, you can pop into one of the many hidden bookstores or antique shops that Edinburgh is famous for. The city’s literary heritage is hard to miss – Edinburgh is home to legends like Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson, so it feels special to sit down and read a book in the cities that inspired these authors.

In the evening, Edinburgh’s gothic charm really comes to life. Lantern-lit ghost tours, cozy pubs with roaring fires, and an overall vibe that’s just perfect for curling up with a warm drink. The city’s many traditional pubs offer the ideal retreat from the crisp air, where you can settle in with a pint and some haggis, or maybe just a hot toddy to keep you warm.

Edinburgh in January is all about embracing the gloom in the best way possible – dark, mysterious, and absolutely enchanting.

Places to stay in Edinburgh:

Photo by Ursa Bavcar on Unsplash

Etretat, France – gorgeous views of the ocean and painters’ muse

The good thing about Etretat is, no matter when you go, it will always be gorgeous. Sunny weather, moody weather, it doesn’t matter – that place never misses.

There’s a reason why Etretat is a favorite of painters’ and artists’. The rugged beauty of the white cliffs contrasting with the blue ocean takes center stage, always. In January, the chalk-white cliffs against the moody skies create a dramatic landscape that’s unforgettable.

This is the perfect spot if you’re a fan of breathtaking views and a calming, endless horizon. As you walk along the paths atop the cliffs, you can hear the waves crashing below – there’s something very grounding and peaceful about it.

And if you time it right, a sunset here will leave you speechless, with the sky painted in shades of pink and orange. Étretat is one of those places where you feel like you’re at the edge of the world, in the best way possible.

Places to stay in Etretat:

Photo by Anya Rahmoune from Stop Going to Paris

Budapest, Hungary – thermal baths and comfort food

The days may be getting colder in January in Budapest, but that’s just another reason to head straight to one of the city’s famous thermal baths like Széchenyi. Soaking in the warm, mineral water is the city’s secret to surviving the chilly months.

After a long soak, the city’s cafés and restaurants offer the kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out. In my opinion, Hungarian cuisine is perfect for all kinds of comfort food. Think rich goulash, piping hot, with chunks of beef and vegetables, stuffed cabbages, or chimney cakes fresh off the grill, with impossible-to-resist cinnamon sugar on top. That’s the kind of food you want to eat when it’s cold outside.

And when you’re not soaking or eating (which is a big part of the experience!), the city itself is a pleasure to visit. Strolling along the Danube River, you’ll catch breathtaking views of the Parliament building and Buda Castle, both beautifully illuminated in the early evening. My favorite part was the city’s grand architecture from its time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire – so unique, so beautiful and so harmonious. It feels a bit like you’re a character living in the 19th century and it’s all very romantic, especially if you couple it with a boat tour of the Danube at sunset, a glass of champagne in hand (did it, highly recommend it).

Places to stay in Budapest:

Photo by Anya Rahmoune from Stop Going to Paris

Strasbourg, France – catch the end of Christmas markets and cheer

January in Strasbourg is the time to catch the last days of something magical. The city is wrapping up its legendary Christmas markets, and you can still feel the Christmas cheer in the air.

The old Petite-France neighborhood is what you think of when you think “storybook Christmas”: cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses, narrow canals and little bridges, sparkling lights, and the smell of mulled wine and gingerbread filling the air. The markets close towards the middle of January (that’s when I recommend you go), but still, the whole city feels like it’s the Christmas holidays. The cooler weather just adds a layer of cozy on top, making it the perfect time to sip on something warm while you stroll through the town squares.

Places to stay in Strasbourg:

Photo by Anya Rahmoune from Stop Going to Paris

Seville, Spain – good vibes and cozy weather

January has perfect weather for wandering comfortably through Seville’s historic streets. One of the highlights is just getting lost in the Santa Cruz neighborhood. I spent hours exploring the Alcázar, with its intricate Moorish designs, or wandering through the gardens. I took walks through María Luisa Park and enjoyed a peaceful boat ride along the canal in the Plaza de España, which is an iconic spot showcasing intricate tilework and majestic architecture.

The evenings are perfect for enjoying tapas at a local bar while listening to traditional flamenco music in the background.

Seville is such a lovely city to visit in January because it still has that Andalusian sunshine warmth but you’re not breaking a sweat. The Spanish sun is brutal during summer. I would know, I got the worst sunburn of my life in Sitges in August 2021. Since then, you’ll never catch me traveling in Spain during the summer!

Places to stay in Seville:

  • Hotel Simon is an impressive 18th-century mansion in central Seville, just 50 meters from the city’s famous cathedral.
  • Melia Lebreros is a 4-star hotel with all the convenience you could ask for, from comfortable rooms to a pool, a gym, private buffets, daily cocktails and press and concierge services. Nothing is missing!
  • Catalonia Giralda, located in Seville’s old town, is another option at a great 4-star hotel, with all the amenities: an indoor pool with a waterfall, beautiful rooms, a breakfast buffet and a traditional Andalusian cuisine restaurant.
  • La Flamenka Hostel is a colorful hostel located in the center of Seville within 150 meters of various shops, bars and restaurants. Highly recommend for the terrace with the city views!

Recap of best places to visit in January in Europe

Here is a quick recap of the best places to visit in January in Europe and why they made the list:

  • Zakopane, Poland – ski season reaches its peak.
  • Tenerife, Canary Islands – warm weather and beaches.
  • Tromsø, Norway – Artic adventures: northern lights, whale watching, dog sledding, fjord cruises.
  • Trieste, Italy – perfect long weekend destination: a mix of Italian, Slovenian and Austrian influences.
  • Nazaré, Portugal – surfing season reaches its peak in the international surf capital.
  • Ghent, Belgium – the best January day trip and the best medieval city that Belgium has to offer.
  • Florence, Italy – enjoy the shoulder season with sparser crowds and more affordable accommodations.
  • Madeira, Portugal – enjoy the island life and winter sun in the “Hawaii of Europe”.
  • Edinburgh, Scotland – a city full of dark academia, gothic and gloomy charm.
  • Etretat, France – gorgeous views of the ocean, many painters’ inspiration.
  • Budapest, Hungary – relax in the thermal baths and eat comfort food.
  • Strasbourg, France – enjoy the last of the Christmas markets and cheer.
  • Seville, Spain – laze around under the Spanish sun and cozy weather.

My Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my list of the best places to visit in Europe during January. It’s a month full of surprises: chasing the northern lights, soaking up the winter vibe in Florence, enjoying the last of the Christmas cheer… there’s something special about traveling at this time of year. Sure, you might trade a bit of sunshine for moody skies sometimes (though not in Madeira, Tenerife and Seville!), but that just adds to the charm of these places. Plus, the cozy vibes, fewer crowds, and the chance to explore these places in a more relaxed, intimate way make January the perfect time to travel.

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