Europe is a year round destination. No matter which month you pick, you will find that there are a variety of things to do. The real question is which locations are the best in each month. With so many countries and locations to choose from, that does get really difficult.
January in Europe is quite possibly one of the best times to travel. It gives you a chance to explore the southern continent with milder weather and indulge in winter sports when it comes to the northern part of Europe.
Whether you are looking for warm weather destinations to spend January in Europe or cold weather destinations, don’t worry. We have you covered. We’ve reached out to locals and travel experts to curate the ultimate list of epic destinations that should be on your list if you intend to spend January in Europe.
There is guaranteed to be something for everybody! So what are you waiting for? Check out which location is best suited for your January in Europe itinerary . Don’t forget to checkout all the secret tips on where to stay and top tours too!
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January In Europe: Table Of Contents
- Rovaniemi, Finland
- Apulia, Italy
- Palmero, Italy
- Rome, Italy
- London, United Kingdom
- Vienna, Austria
- Albuferia, Portugal
- Porto, Portugal
- Athens, Greece
- Prague, Czech Republic
- Seville, Spain
- Malaga, Spain
- Gdansk, Poland
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Vik, Iceland
- Paris, France
1. Rovaniemi, Finland
Rovaniemi in Finland is one of the best cold weather destinations to spend January in Europe.
Location: Rovaniemi, Finland
Temperatures In Ravaniemi, Finland In January:
Low: -16oC/ 3.2OF
High: -8oC/ 17.6OF
Getting There: Getting to Rovaniemi during January is fairly easy as all of the seasonal flights are still available after the Christmas holidays. Most connect through Helsinki and fly directly into Rovaniemi Airport. Alternatively, you can take the train from Helsinki up to Lapland.
Rovaniemi is one of the best places to visit in winter but it really is a fantastic option in January after the holiday crowds leave and the Arctic city calms down a little.
Prices drop and hotels open up a bit more… and you have even better weather than in December and earlier months! This itself is one of the main reasons why its a great spot for January in Europe.
The biggest lure for travelers flocking to Rovaniemi is Santa Claus Village, a tourist site that is open year-round but is swarming with crowds during December. Fortunately, it clears out a bit in January but still offers the same experience! The complex offers everything from reindeer feeding to meeting Santa Claus and more.
If you’re spending winter in Rovaniemi, you will arrive on short, cold days. But, this is when the northern lights are the most visible, so it is a worthwhile trip! Other options for worthwhile tours in Rovaniemi are snowmobile trips, dog-sledding, and snowshoeing excursions.
The restaurants in Rovaniemi are often very difficult to get into during December so traveling there in January will allow an easier opportunity to eat at some of the famous places like Gustav, Restaurant Nili, and Arctic Restaurant.
Rovaniemi is definitely one of the best places to visit in January in Europe if you’re looking for a snowy, wintry holiday!
By Meghan From Meghan Starr
2. Apulia, Italy
Apulia or Puglia, Italy is one of the best warm weather destinations to spend January in Europe.
Location: Apulia is a region in southeastern Italy (the heel of the boot)
Temperatures In Puglia, Italy in January:
Low: 5oC/ 41OF
High: 13oC/ 55.4OF
Getting There: Bari is the capital of the region and also the biggest city. It is served by an international airport – Bari Palese international airport (BRI) – which is very well connected to the rest of Europe. The low-cost carriers WizzAir and Ryanair ensure plenty of flights are available year-round. Other European carriers typically fly to Bari only during the summer.
Bari is also served by a train station, making it easy to connect by land to other cities in Italy. Or you can catch a bus from other European countries or Italian cities. Depending on where you come from, it might be more affordable to fly to Rome and travel to Bari by land.
Or, if you come from Greece, Croatia, Montenegro, or Albania, you have the option to take a ferry to either Bari or Brindisi.
Where To Stay: Bari is an excellent hub to explore Apulia. Make sure to book a place in the Old Town (Bari Vecchia). The charming, narrow streets will leave you speechless. The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is the main place to explore in the area. Other churches dot the Old Town and you may also explore Fortino of Saint Antony, an old fort that is now an art gallery.
A quick bus or train ride from Bari, Alberobello is probably the most beautiful place to visit in Apulia. The UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises trulli, a traditional dry stone hut with a conical roof.
Lecce, also known as Florence of the South, is filled with baroque architecture. Make sure to visit the Cathedral, Porta Napoli, and Paisiello Theatre.
Or you can choose one of the many beach resorts dotting the Adriatic Sea. Vieste and Peschici are great options. Just imagine walking on the deserted beach, the breeze in your hair. If you prefer the mountains, put on your hiking shoes and explore Gargano National Park with its gorgeous trails in Foresta Umbra.
While Apulia is blessed with a Mediterranean climate, don’t pack your swimsuit. Although considered a warm winter destination, you still need a pretty warm jacket when you go out, especially in the evening. Oh, and Apulia can get snow. Thankfully, it only lasts a couple of days and doesn’t happen often.
And no matter where you choose to stay in Apulia, make sure to dive deep into its cuisine. Better yet, take a cooking class and learn how to make focaccia or orecchiette.
You can see why it is such a lovely spot for January in Europe.
By Cris From LooknWalk
3. Palmero, Italy
Palmero is a wonderful warm weather destination to spend January in Europe.
Location: Palmero, Italy
Temperatures In Palmero, Italy In January:
Low: 10oC/ 50OF
High: 15oC/ 59OF
Where To Stay: If you are looking for a top-notch place to sleep, head over to the 5-star Villa Igiea located just outside of the historical center of Palermo.
With average temperatures of 20°C and 75% of the days without a cloud in the sky, Palermo is the ideal place to escape the cold European winter and to get some much-needed vitamin D. There are are plenty of things to do in Palermo year round.
The capital of Sicily is positively heaving with tourists in summer, while in winter you will only have to share it with locals. This is one of the main reasons why spending January in Europe here is a good idea.
Spend one full day in the historical center, marvel at the UNESCO-classified Palatine Chapel with the reportedly 6000 pieces of gold mosaic on the ceiling. Climb the church spire of the Palermo Cathedral for the best views over town and head into the Casa de Gesu church to witness the most spectacular baroque architecture in all of the city.
Make sure to keep enough time (and appetite) for a visit to some of the oldest markets in the city: Ballaro and la Vucciria are wonderful places to try some typical Palermitan street food.
Grab an Arancina, sfincione or the world-famous cannoli before having a drink in one of the many eateries. These markets offer some of the best people-watching in all of the city.
Weather permitting, grab a bus to Mondello which is a district of Palermo located right by the beach. Walk along the waterfront or head into town to hunt down the pretties liberty villas the city has on offer.
By Caroline From Veggie Wayfarer
4. Rome, Italy
Rome is a fun destination to spend January in Europe.
Location: Rome is situated in central Italy in southern Europe.
Temperatures In Rome, Italy In January:
Low: 4oC/ 39.2OF
High: 13oC/ 55.4OF
Getting There: Rome has two international airports that receive traffic from all over the world as well as other Italian destinations. The bus and train network to Rome is also excellent from across Europe and Italy.
Where To Stay: Stay centrally. Preferably near the Spanish Steps in the historic center and check in at Ripetta Palace.
One of the best places to travel in January in Europe is the Italian capital of Rome. No matter if you have visited the city before or it is your first time there, there will be plenty of things to do from the most popular sites like the Colosseum, the St. Peter’s Church and the Vatican to explore Rome off the beaten path.
The most interesting custom in Rome in January is the celebration of La Befana on the 6th. This is the day when the children get their Christmas socks. If it is filled with sweets, they have been good, but if it is filled with coal (these days it is actually just sugar that looks like coal – and tastes super yummy lol) it means they have been naughty.
Usually, the sock will be filled with a mix of the two. If you get to Rome before the 6th of January, you can find all kinds of sweets and Befana things in the shops.
While January is one of the months with the most rain in Rome, you can also be lucky and take in a pleasant amount of Vitamin D. You should still bring an umbrella and dress in layers, because it might feel nice and warm in the sun, but once you move into the shade, you will notice how the temperatures drop dramatically.
By Linn Haglund of Brainy Backpackers
Pro Tip: Book a skip the line ticket for the Colosseum online to save time that would otherwise be spent waiting in an ultra long queue. You can also book a fast track ticket for the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel online.
5. London, United Kingdom
London is epic city to spend January in Europe.
Location: London, England
Temperatures In London, United Kingdom in January:
Low: 4oC/ 39.2OF
High: 9oC/ 48.2OF
Getting There: London is a key hub for travel in Europe due to many cheap international flights and multiple airports. The most popular is London Heathrow, but you can also fly to Gatwick airport, Stansted or Luton and from there get a train or bus to the city center.
Where To Stay: If you are looking for a bit of luxury with the breathtaking views of London, visit the Shard. Inside the tallest skyscraper in the capital, you will find Shangri-la the Shard hotel which offers an unforgettable stay in the most iconic building that can be seen from any part of London.
If you’re seeking for one of the most magnificent places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Europe, visit London. Make sure to pick the ideal location to watch spectacular fireworks over the River Thames. Hire a private igloo at Coppa Club Tower Bridge or join many others on a street next to Big Ben and start the countdown.
When the new year begins discover award-winning light festivals in London. Lightopia – an event well-known all over the world with multiple gold awards will take your breath away.
Then, visit ChinaTown and celebrate New Year again! Each year, thousands of people watch the parade of flying dragons in London. This is the biggest Chinese New Year celebration in Europe. It makes for a great place to spend January in Europe.
If you want to learn a bit about Scottish traditions, visit London on the 25th of January. Celebrate the birthday of Scottish poet Robert Burns with a good whisky in Black Rock Tavern. Joining a Burns Night event is only one of many fabulous things to do in London in winter.
Traveling to London in January is the best way to avoid the crowds, but also save money while shopping on the famous Oxford Street or Old Bond Street. With ongoing January bargains, spoil yourself in Burlington Arcade – one of the most luxurious shopping arcades in London.
By Paulina From The UK Every Day
Pro Tip: There are loads of things to do in London. Getting around the city can be expensive and exhausting. Try using the hop on hop off bus.
6. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a lovely place to spend January in Europe.
Location: Vienna, Austria
Temperatures In Vienna, Austria In January:
Low: 0oC/ 32OF
High: 4oC/ 39.2OF
Getting There: many direct flights from most major European airports, trains from Budapest, Salzburg, Munich, and Prague.
Where To Stay: Neubau or Karlsplatz
What do pastel city streets, Baroque Opera Houses, and decadent chocolate cake have in common? You can find them all in Vienna, of course! Vienna, Austria is a hub for central European culture, history, and music which makes this capital city an ideal European destination, even in the middle of January.
As a cold-weather destination, visitors will love taking advantage of Vienna’s plentiful indoor museums, churches, and cultural attractions. Some of Vienna’s most iconic sites include the historic Schoenbrunn and Hapsburg Palace museums which are the best way to learn about Vienna’s royal history while marveling at intricate architecture and design.
Other winter-friendly Viennese highlights include the Haus Der Musik (House of Music), the Albertina, and Leopold museums as well as the famed Karlskirche and Stephan Church. For those wanting to get a feel for the modern side of Vienna, the Mariahilferstrasse district is a wonderful spot for a bit of exploring and shopping.
Just a short walk away near Neubaugasse, it’s easy to warm up in one of the nearby coffee shops and hunt for treasures at the vintage stores. Vienna is the perfect winter destination and should definitely be the next stop on your trip in January in Europe Itinerary!
By Emma From All Over The Place
Pro Tip: If you are in Vienna and want to get to places without getting exhausted and booking a cab, then book a hop on and hop off tour. There are loads of things to do in the city. Try to book skip the line tickets online. There are some epic experiences that you should not miss. The food, coffee and market highlights and a concert at St Anne’s church are just two examples.
7. Albuferia, Portugal
Albuferia is a great warm destination to spend January in Europe.
Location: Albufeira is located in the southern part of Portugal down in the beautiful Algarve. More specifically it is one of the biggest cities in the Faro region.
Temperatures In Albuferia, Portugal in January:
Low: 8oC/ 46.4OF
High: 16oC/ 60.8OF
Getting There: There are plenty of ways to reach Albufeira. You can fly directly into the Faro airport and take a bolt, taxi, bus, or rent a car and drive into town. Albufeira is about an hour away from the Faro airport.
Where To Stay: If you are coming to Albufeira in January you should stay somewhere near with a view of the beach. The old town is a perfect place to stay because you can walk to a few of the different beach spots and it is where all the best restaurants and bars are.
There are plenty of places to stay in the old town, and in January it is not too busy and many local places are still open for business. You may get lucky and have the whole beach to yourself.
Portugal is one of the best places to go to escape the cold in Europe. And Albufeira is one of the most popular destinations due to the beautiful beaches and many sunny days. It is without a doubt one of the most popular places to spend the month of January in Europe.
You can also fly into Lisbon and rent a car and drive down, the highways are new and efficient. This would be a great way to make a few pit spots and see other places if you have the time. There is also a train you can take from Lisbon to Faro too.
By Abbey From Trips On Abbey Road
8. Porto, Portugal
Porto is an iconic warm destination to spend January in USA.
Location: Porto, Portugal
Temperatures In Porto, Portugal In January:
Low: 6oC/ 42.8OF
High: 14oC/ 57.2OF
Getting There: Take a flight or a long distance bus
Where To Stay: Vila Nova de Gaia
The temperature in Porto in January is cold but not freezing and you might have some sunny days.
Porto is one of Portugal’s most beautiful cities with plenty of things to see and do. Come here for beautiful river views, delicious food and of course authentic Port wine.
Go on a cruise along the River Douro before you enjoy a Francesinha sandwich which is a cheesy delicacy covered in sauce. You’ll also love a Pastel de Nata which is a sweet treat that can be purchased at local bakeries. In January, Porto is relatively quiet and you won’t encounter too many other tourists.
The weather may be foggy sometimes but you’ll still get to enjoy temperatures of around 16 degrees during the day. A glass of Port wine will warm you up as you walk along the river promenade and stroll across the impressive Luis I bridge.
There is also the Porto cable car which provides breathtaking views from above and is a great activity on a cold day. Afterward, walk through Vila Nova de Gaia, Porto’s wine-making neighborhood which has a great variety of restaurants to try. Definitely one of the best places to spend January in Europe.
By Victoria From Guide Your Travel
Pro Tip: There are loads of things to do in Porto. It is hard to pack everything in an itinerary. Things that you don’t want to miss are the Douro valley wine tours and tours of the historic district.
9. Athens, Greece
Athens is a great warm weather destination to spend January in Europe.
Location: Athens, Greece
Temperatures In Athen, Greece In January:
Low: 7oC/ 44.6OF
High: 13oC/ 55.4OF
January is the coldest month in Athens but often has pleasant days which involve sunshine and no need for a coat.
Getting There: The easiest way to get to Athens is by flying straight into Athens International Airport. However, if you are arriving from another Greek Island, there are many local ferries that will take you directly to Athens.
Where To Stay: No matter your budget, there are plenty of places to stay in Athens. If you want to make the most of your time in Athens, book a hotel that has a view of the Acropolis. The most popular and recommended Hotel for this is City Circus Athens.
Athens is a fantastic destination to visit any time of year. However, it is even better to visit in January. Most locations in Europe during January are freezing and raining. This is not the case for Athens. Also if you are in search of a bargain, you will find hotels are cheaper and there are less crowds than in the summer season.
So many travelers flock to Athens because of its amazing food and history. No matter what part of the City you are in, you will stumble upon some of the best history in the world. I don’t think you need more inspiration to travel to Greece that this!
Exploring the Ancient past of this City is one of the best things to do. Some of the things you cannot miss when exploring Athens in January include the Acropolis, Zeus’ Temple and the Panathenaic Stadium. They are some of the famous landmarks in Greece. If you have a student card remember to bring it with you, it will save you so much money!
Even though January isn’t the hottest time of year in Athens, the weather can be deceiving. Make sure you stay hydrated when you are exploring, especially if you are sampling the local wine.
January in Europe is one of the best times to visit. Not only is it a great time to escape the tourist crowds but the temperatures make it a lot more easier to explore. If you are searching for the ultimate Europe getaway, Athens should be at the top of your list.
By Lowri From Many Other Roads
Pro Tip: Athens can get really crowded. Book a skip the line ticket for attractions whenever you can. It will save you a lot of time.
10. Prague, Czech Republic
Location: Prague is the capital city of the Czech Republic in Central Europe.
Temperature In Prague in Winter:
High: 3° / 37°
Low: -1° / 30°
Getting There: Fly into the Václav Havel international airport in Prague or travel by train to the capital of Czechia. Prague is well-connected, and since recently, you can also travel by nightjet train on the new routes from Vienna, Graz, Zürich, or Berlin to Prague.
Where To Stay: You can choose to stay in the old town or in Mustek or on the other side of the river near the Prague Castle in Malá Strana or Hrad. Both areas have their charm and are part of the old town area.
In Mala Strana, also known as the lesser town, you get outstanding views across the Vlatava river and old town. If you want a room with a view to the castle hill, then choose to stay in the Mustek Old Town area.
The best upscale hotels to briefly call your home when in Prague include the Four Seasons, the Mandarin Oriental and Augustine.
Prague is known as the best preserved historic center in Europe. The old town baroque buildings, cobbled streets and gothic towers and spires will take you back in time to this breathtakingly beautiful city. The Prague castle, the Charles bridge and the astronomical clock are some of the landmarks you shouldn’t miss when in Prague.
Additionally, you can choose to walk down the colorful Golden lane or get lost in the Bohemian Mala Strana quarters. Walk up behind the castle hill and get a wide view of the city from the Petřín lookout tower or visit one of the most beautiful libraries in the world located in the Strahov Monastery.
Praha, as it is called by the locals, is one of the most visited cities in Europe. Visiting in January comes with its perks because you will get to have this magical place almost to yourself. Which makes it one of the top picks for January in Europe.
By Helene & Paul From Paulmarina
Pro Tip: If you are in Prague, think about indulging in a 5-Course Medieval Dining Experience in Prague.
11. Seville, Spain
Seville is a great warm weather destination for January in Europe.
Location: Seville, Andalucia
Temperatures In Seville, Spain In January:
Low: 6oC/ 42.8OF
High: 16oC/ 60.8OF
Getting There: Seville does have an airport, however, it doesn’t have the best range of flights. If you’re flying from another destination within Spain, then you can usually find a flight. For most international arrivals, you’ll have to go to Madrid or Barcelona and get a transfer to Seville.
Where To Stay: Anywhere within the Old City walls. The historic center, Bario Santa Cruz, is next to all the attractions, but it’s expensive. A livelier place to stay is in Alameda or Feria with more affordable options, however, it’s about a 30-minute walk to the historic center from here.
Even though there is a chill and freshness in the air in January, Seville still sees plenty of sun during the month thanks to its crisp blue skies.
You’ll need a jacket to go out in the early mornings and evenings, but if you find a sunny spot during the daytime, you’ll soon be stripping down to just a t-shirt, because it’s so warm. If you’re planning to visit Seville in the winter, the key is to wear layers.
Seville in January is lively, especially at the start of the month. The Spanish pretty much celebrate Christmas for about three weeks, with the finale happening on the 6th of January to mark Magic Kings Day. This is one of the iconic spots for January in Europe.
The streets are filled with festivities with the traditional cavalcade or carnival that happens in the streets. Colorful floats are driven through town with people dressed as the Three Kings who brought gifts to Jesus. From the floats, things like chocolates and sweets are thrown out to the children.
Seville is famous for its oranges. For many this alone makes Spain worth visiting!
Another great reason to visit Seville in January is this is when they are really in season. Oranges adorn every tree in the city center making the city look vibrant. They do look good enough to eat, however, they are incredibly bitter, even when they are ripe.
By Becki from Meet Me In Departures
Pro Tip: Seville is an amazing place to visit since there are loads of tours in the city and day trips outside Seville. For example, you could head out to the white villages and Rhoda day tour. Or you could choose to book skip the line tickets for Alcazar and the Cathedral of Seville which saves you loads of time.
12. Malaga, Spain
Malaga is an epic warm weather destination to spend January in Europe.
Location: Malaga, Southern Spain
Temperatures In Malaga, Spain in January:
Low: 8oC/ 46.4OF
High: 17oC/ 62.6OF
Getting There: Malaga has an international airport and is well commuted with the rest of the world. There are also trains and buses from the rest of the country.
Where To Stay: Stay centrally at Room Mate Valeria where you have an easy walking distance from the main attractions in the historical center.
Malaga in winter is a lovely destination for winter sun and while a cloudy, windy day can feel sour, a sunny day can make you want to go to the beach, and Yes, even go for a swim if you have a little sense of adventure.
Malaga is blessed with mild weather all year round, mesmerizing urban beaches like La Malagueta Beach, and a wealth of historical sites, museums for rainy days, and hikes for good days.
Because January is a wonderful time of the year to explore the many hiking routes without the excess heat that you get in the summer and even sometimes in autumn and spring. This is one of the reasons why Malaga is an epic spot to spend January in Europe.
Head to the Montes de Malaga to get mesmerizing coastal views from the midst of pine trees or head to the world-famous Caminito del Rey.
You can also explore some of the most unique karst landscapes in Europe at El Torcal de Antequera just a 45-minute drive from the city center. January is also when the Spanish celebrate Christmas.
Not the Christmas we are used to, but the day of Reyes (the Three King’s Day). This is the day when the Spanish exchange gifts and have large family dinners. Don’t forget to indulge in all the tapas from Andalucia while you are here.
On both the 5th and 6th of January you can experience fun processions through the streets of Malaga where the Three Kings are carried on floats and throw candy to the kids. You should also pop by a bakery or a café to try Roscon de Reyes which is a round Christmas cake with cream and dried fruit.
By Linn From Amused by Andalucia
Note: Like most Spanish cities, you will find loads of tours in Malaga that take you through some of the cities iconic spots. From Caminito del Rey to Alhambra, there are loads of great day trips to embark on too! Don’t forget to try out the iconic Tapa tours in the city.
13. Gdansk, Poland
Gdansk is a great spot to spend January in Europe.
Location: Gdansk, Poland
Temperatures In Gdansk, Poland In January:
Low: -3oC/ 26.6OF
High: 2oC/ 35.6OF
Getting There: Gdansk is located in the north of Poland on the Baltic coast. The closest airport is Gdansk Rebiechowo Airport which is approximately 15km from the city center and easily connected by public transport. Once in the city center, Gdansk is easily navigated on foot.
Where To Stay: The historic Old Town is the best place to stay with most attractions just a short walk away. The PURO Gdansk Stare Miasto is a lovely option in the heart of the Old Town, or for something a little more luxe try Dwór Uphagena ARCHE Gdańsk which is a short walk away.
A city rich in maritime history and known for its kaleidoscopic colorful Old Town, Gdansk is a city unlike any other in Poland. The brightly painted facades of Long Market are home to an array of shops and restaurants and cobbled lanes are flanked by perfectly proportioned buildings and medieval red-brick churches.
Showing no signs of a city once buried beneath rubble after the Second World War, the Gdansk was rebuilt to replicate the city’s original design – 18th-century merchant houses and all. One of Gdansk’s most notable attractions is the Museum of WWII.
A brilliant hub of information, the museum features interactive displays and educational content, and provides audio guides to help visitors navigate their way through the exhibits.
During January, travelers might be treated to the occasional snowfall, turning this brightly-adorned city into a dreamscape. One of the best views across the city is admired from the top of St Mary’s Church. Climb the 400 steps to the top of the spiral staircase where you can soak up views of the toy-like houses from above.
When in Poland, eating several hearty servings of pierogi is a must. The best place to try these Polish dumplings is Pierogarnia Mandu Centrum where you can get a first-hand look at how they’re made fresh in the glass storefronts. The top tip is to try the classic ‘Ruskie’ style pierogi made of potato, cottage cheese and onion.
Part of the Tri-city region, you can explore the nearby coastal towns of Sopot and Gdynia easily by train from Gdansk. They make a perfect day trip if you’re enjoying a longer stay in the city.
Gdansk is definitely one of the top locations to spend January in Europe.
By Bronwyn From Bronwyn Townsend
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the old town food tour!
14. Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul is a lovely place to spend January in Europe.
Location: Istanbul is in Turkey or Türkiye. Fun fact, half of Istanbul city is in Europe and the
other half in Asia.
Temperatures In Istanbul, Turkey In January:
Low: 3oC/ 37.4OF
High: 9oC/ 48.2OF
Getting There: There are two international airports in Istanbul. Istanbul International (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International (SAW). Turkish Airlines offer many direct flights all over Europe and to 12 destinations in the USA. AnadoluJet, the budget carrier of Turkish Airlines, is also great for travel deals.
Where To Stay: For the old town near the Sultanahmet historical district, then the Istanbul
Henna Hotel in Fatih is a great location to stay. From the balcony you’ll find stunning views of the Hagia Sophia.
Alternatively, for the newer city then consider Room Mate Emir Hotel in Beyoğlu. This hotel is in a lively area very near Istiklal Ave and Taksim Square.
Pack your jackets as temperatures drop to around 8C, January is the coldest month in Istanbul! Despite the temperatures, Istanbul is a great place for January in Europe.
A 4 day Istanbul itinerary is an ideal length of time to see the city. In the historical center visit the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia as well as the many underground cisterns. Shop for carpets in the Grand Bazaar and Arasta Bazaar, or spices at Mısır Çarşısı. Then take a traditional Turkish hammam, drink Turkish coffee and eat baklava!
Over the Galata Bridge on the new side of town, wander Istiklal Avenue towards Taksim Square and see a whirling dervish show or climb Galata Tower. Finally, take a ferry tour of the Bosphorus river, admiring Istanbul’s architecture and history from the water.
By Sharon From My Freerange Family
15. Vik, Iceland
Vik is amazing place to spend January in Europe.
Location: Vik, Iceland
Temperatures In Vik, Iceland In January:
Low: -1.1oC/ 30OF
High: 3.3oC/ 37.9OF
Getting There: The best way to get to Vik, located along the southern shore of the country, is to fly into Keflavik International Airport, outside of Reyjavik and make the three hour drive to the country. In the winter time, be sure to book an all-wheel drive car- it gets icy on the roads!
Where To Stay: Hotel Vík í Mýrda is the perfect example of Icelandic design, mixing modern sleekness with rustic coziness.
The days are short and chilly, come January, in Vik, but the hours of daylight and the night can be filled with epic adventures.
Not only are the crowds of summer gone, Iceland, renowned for its vibrant green hills and black lava fields, is frequently covered with a layer of crisp, white snowfall. Plus, given the cold weather, there’s plenty of ice caves to be explored and glaciers to be hiked.
Most people coming to Iceland at this time have one thing on their mind- experience the Northern Lights. In fact, Iceland is one of the best places on the planet to see the Aurora Borealis, due to the long, dark nights and location of the corresponding magnetic fields.
To catch this magnificent display, you can either consider booking a tour to see them or, alternatively, simply drive away from cities, which are dense with light pollution. Patience will pay off- the Northern Lights are never a guarantee and mainly depend on the solar activity and cloud cover obscuring the sky on that given day.
Alternatively, there’s perhaps no better time than January to explore the incredible hot springs around Vik, such as the Seljavallalaug Pool, tucked away in the snowy green mountains or something a bit bougier, like the Sky Lagoon, with a seven-step cleansing ritual, infinity pool, and sauna.
Regardless of whether you’re planning on mainly enjoying the natural scenery or a totally fabricated experience, like the Sky Lagoon, I’d suggest adding a swimsuit to your Iceland packing list– there’s nothing quite like relaxing in a natural hot spring while the Northern Lights dance overhead. Definitely a great spot for your January in Europe itinerary.
By Jessica From Uprooted Traveler
16. Paris, France
Paris is one of the best cities to spend January in Europe.
Location: Paris, France
Temperatures In Paris, France In January:
Low: 2oC/ 35.6OF
High: 7oC/ 44.6OF
Getting There: Paris is accessible by two major airports, Orly and Charles de Gualle. There is another airport, Beauvais, that is about an hour outside of the city, servicing mostly budget airlines. Paris is also accessible by several major train lines, including a direct train from London.
Where To Stay: The best places to stay in Paris are Le Marais, or in the 6th or 7th arrondissement (section). Note that this is a fairly large area; Paris doesn’t have a singular city center or main attraction, so visitors have lots of options for places to stay.
If you’ve always wanted to visit Paris but have felt like it is too expensive or crowded, visit the city in January. While you won’t get the experience of seeing classically green and lush parks or lounging on the grass watching the Eiffel Tower light up at night, you’ll be able to experience a more local and relaxed version of the city.
Even the hospitality staff you encounter will be more relaxed, as the trademark mobs of tourists will have dwindled to only more experienced or adventurous visitors.
There are wonderfully relaxing things to do in Paris, from sipping a rich cup of hot chocolate from Angelina’s to meandering through the Louvre Museum’s extensive collections. If you like to shop, Paris is the perfect place for you, with iconic department stores throughout the city.
All of the wonderful cafes and wine bars will still be open, so you can explore French food, art, and culture throughout the month of January. You can see why it is a great spot to spend January in Europe.
The weather will be chilly and it’s likely you’ll encounter some rain, or even snow, while visiting in January. Bundle up with waterproof shoes, a warm coat, long underwear, and a scarf to ensure you’re able to stay warm while wandering through the beautiful and iconic streets of Paris.
By Amber From Amber Everywhere.
Note: There is a lot to do in the city and by default a lot of tours in Paris. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise is one of the epic tours that are popular.
The romantic atmosphere is something that people really love with the backdrop of the Christmas lights in the distance. The hop on and hop off bus tours help you traverse the city.
