Europe in January may not appear probably the most thrilling prospect on paper. Christmas markets have closed, festive cheer has been changed by New Yr’s resolutions and, let’s be trustworthy, we’re all prepared to avoid wasting money after December’s bills. However that’s exactly why these picks are a few of the greatest locations to go to in Europe in January; all of them promise the right post-Christmas relaxation and recharge.Â
For some, that may imply beginning the yr by strapping on skis and hitting the slopes. If you happen to’re feeling burned out, now’s the right time for a cost-saving scenic spa getaway or to cosy up inside watching the northern lights. Possibly you simply desire a little bit of winter solar or a cheeky metropolis break free whereas the costs are decrease? Yep, these low season offers will be motivation sufficient to go to one of the best European vacation spot in January.
Effectively, no matter you’re looking for from a start-of-year trip, these are my ideas of one of the best European nations to go to in January, damaged down into snowboarding and snow, adventures, leisure, metropolis breaks and winter solar. And positive, a few of Europe’s greatest cities, like Barcelona and Rome, is perhaps somewhat lighter on crowds — these well-known metropolises are by no means tourist-free — however as an alternative of simply itemizing the headliners as ideas for barely decrease lodge charges, I’ve tried to give attention to locations with a compelling purpose to go to in January.
Greatest European ski and snow locations in January
A lot of Europe’s hottest January locations are centered on snow and winter spots. You’ve bought the marginally offbeat, comparable to Slovakia’s Tatras Mountains, and the outdated favourites, like Innsbruck in Austria, however the next three stand out for their very own compelling and completely different causes. Plus, you possibly can normally snag some first rate offers in case you go to mid-month after the Christmas holidays are over however earlier than February sees the slopes get busier once more.
Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Indulge with pristine pistes and après-ski in France’s fabulous winter wonderland, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. With over 3000 mountains — together with the famed Mont Blanc — on this Swiss border-touching area, there’s a resort for all. Plus, France simply appears to have the sting in terms of snowboarding.
If you wish to splurge, e book a keep in one of many luxurious ski chalets in Courchevel, arguably the area’s most upscale resort. Identified for its Michelin-awarded eating places and first-class boutiques, you’ll have loads to pamper your self away from the pistes of the world’s largest steady ski space, Les 3 Vallées. Plus, January additionally typically brings one of the best recent powder.
However there are additionally some extra budget-friendly choices, with Le Semnoz being a strong alternative for inexpensive ski passes. One other nice purpose to go to Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes on your snowboarding vacation in January reasonably than December or February is that you just miss the varsity Christmas and half-term breaks. As such, it’s a way more adult-only affair, excellent in terms of the all-important après-ski.
Bansko, Bulgaria
Bulgaria may not have the identical worldwide repute as France for snowboarding, however that makes it the right decide. Bansko is among the greatest locations to go in Europe in January in case you’re a newbie, budget-conscious, or each.
It’s really the place I first (tried) to study to ski, and although my snowboarding journey in Bansko was a little bit of a failure — I realised I’m extra suited to the après than the precise snowboarding — I had no laborious emotions; I’d paid the identical for my complete weeks journey as the costliest ski move within the Alps.
Not solely are the leases, chair elevate passes and lodging choices pretty priced, however you possibly can really base your self in Bansko Previous City after which take a gondola up into the UNESCO-listed Pirin Nationwide Park, the place the slopes are positioned, every morning. I beloved this, because it meant I might expertise the extra conventional aspect of the nation by staying in an precise lived-in city whereas additionally having the snow on my doorstep.
Sierra Nevada, Spain
My remaining suggestion of one of the best locations to go to in January in Europe for snowboarding is the Sierra Nevada mountain vary in southern Spain.
Whereas this isn’t the best-rated ski resort in Europe, it gives the prospect for a way more rounded vacation as you possibly can mix the slopes with visits to a few of Spain’s greatest cities, comparable to Granada — the magnificent Alhambra appears to be like spectacular when backed by the snowy peaks — or Seville, one of many warmest cities in Europe in January.
With greater than 100 slopes — the very best tops out at 1200 metres — to select from, extra skilled and newbie skiers are served. There may be additionally a cross-country monitor, which doesn’t require a ski move. And, in case you plan your go to for early January, you’ll be round for Three Kings Day on the sixth, which sees Spain’s Christmas celebrations kick-off with parades on the night time earlier than, adopted by gift-giving on the precise El DÃa de los Reyes Magos.
The place to go in January in Europe for adventures
Europe’s January snow isn’t solely reserved for snowboarding; there are many different adventures to get pleasure from throughout the continent in case you go to one of the best European vacation spot in January. From northern gentle explorations within the Arctic to snowmobile rides to distant villages, winter brings loads of alternatives. Plus, you would possibly nonetheless discover some sunny mountain climbing trails and roaring surf in Europe’s greatest seaside locations.
Lapland and Nothern Nordics
Choosing one of the best locations to go to in January in Europe within the Nordics is difficult, as every nation has comparable choices. As such, I’ve grouped all of them collectively, as Lapland isn’t restricted to the Santa Village of Rovaniemi in Finland but additionally stretches throughout Sweden and Norway. Finances can be a consider the place you determine to go to, as having simply come again from a few months up north, I can confidently say the trade price in Sweden makes it rather more interesting than Norway for the cash-conscious.
When you’ve made your approach up and past the Arctic Circle, you’ll be in a real winter wonderland. Epic views on the Lofoten Islands, husky-sledding in Lapland, snowshoe hikes alongside Sweden’s King’s Path, and cinematic rail rides to Norway’s most northerly factors all convey awe alongside adventures. You may even sleep in igloos or verify in at a lodge constructed of ice, typically for a fraction of the worth of coming for Christmas.
However what actually makes it top-of-the-line locations to go in January in Europe is the prospect to identify the aurora borealis (northern lights) in all their glory. And whereas sightings aren’t assured — January can imply some cloud cowl — January 2024 is an particularly good time to present it a shot, because the 11-year peak of the photo voltaic cycle is peaking in winter 23/24.
Georgia
Probably the most under-the-radar European locations in January is Georgia. It’s effectively price contemplating a visit to this attractive nation and the Caucasus Mountains if you wish to get pleasure from some adventures with out breaking the financial institution. Plus, the Georgian Orthodox Church celebrates Christmas on January seventh, so you could get to see the all-dressed-up Alilo parade and conventional carols.
The primary gateway to the nation (and capital metropolis), Tbilisi, is a pleasant winter metropolis break, with small terraces dotted with heaters and blankets to maintain you cosy whereas sipping on the delicious Georgian wines and a few of the greatest delicacies on this planet. However for an journey, it’s the Caucasus Mountains that decision loudest.
Definitely, it’s price realizing that snowfall is heavy up right here, and a few roads to distant communities will be shuttered resulting from climate. Nevertheless, inexpensive ski resorts like Gudauri are at all times saved accessible. Right here, you can even get an adrenaline hit on a snowmobiling journey, paraglide over the snow-capped peaks, or strap on some winter mountain climbing gear to sort out the paths round Kazbegi for epic views of Gergeti Trinity Church.
Portugal
Probably the most all-round journey locations in Europe in January is Portugal. Are you able to consider many different locations the place you possibly can ski, surf large waves, and set off on a sunny hike throughout seashores in a single weekend?
However that’s exactly what my completely fashioned and compact chosen house nation gives. Within the Serra da Estrela mountain vary, you’ll discover mainland Portugal’s highest peak, Torre, and whereas it is perhaps stunning, snow does fall right here within the colder months. The small ski resort isn’t actually a lot to shout about, however it may possibly maintain you entertained for a few days.
Then, alongside the coast, you’ve bought browsing of epic proportions. Probably the most spectacular swell is in Nazare, the place the world’s greatest waves are surfed by the professionals, although there are many extra laid-back choices, comparable to Sagres or Ericeira, to get pleasure from a much less excessive surf camp.
And then you definitely’ve bought the mountain climbing choices. From the Algarve’s Fisherman’s Path, a multi-day mountain climbing route that adheres to the coast, to the archipelagos of Madeira — with its hovering peaks and levada trails — and the Azores, the place adventures abound, there are many choices. A bonus is that Madeira and the Algarve are two of the warmest European locations in January.
Greatest locations to go in January in Europe for leisure
If journey isn’t thrilling for you — let’s be trustworthy, all of us want some R&R post-Christmas — then there are some glorious locations to go to in January in Europe to get pleasure from a pamper. From scorching springs and therapeutic baths to forested spa resorts removed from the crowds, these European spots be certain that January is extra about switching off and looking for out serenity.
Karlov Range, CzechiaÂ
Tucked away in forest-heavy Bohemia, the lovable spa city of Karlovy Range is among the greatest European cities to go to in January to assuage your soul. It’s uncommon that I take spa breaks or go to retreats, however a few years again, I used to be craving some peace and pampering and ventured right here on a whim, primarily pushed by the aggressive pricing of upscale accommodations. And boy, am I glad I did.
Not solely did I get to remain in two unbelievable resorts (Retro Riverside Wellness Resort was a magical bolthole) shrouded by dense forests, however after I ultimately tore myself away from the spa, I discovered a fascinating Previous City with a captivating custom.
You see, the nice and cozy therapeutic waters that Karlov Range is understood for aren’t simply utilized in remedies however are sipped on the each day by town’s residents. These conventional Spa cups (domestically referred to as Karlov Range ingesting cups) date again to the seventeenth century and are sometimes carried round to after which stuffed up at one of many metropolis’s free fountains. You’ll simply have the ability to get your individual porcelain cup (it’s an ideal memento) from one of many market stalls or retailers, so you may make a brew and sip tea as you discover the historic highlights.
Iceland
Iceland is among the greatest nations to go to in Europe in January for a number of causes, and it might simply fall into any of those classes. You’ll have the prospect to chase the northern lights, get pleasure from underwater adventures as you snorkel between tectonic plates or hike atop glaciers, and witness waterfalls tumbling into snowy valleys, and the New Yr’s Eve celebrations in Reykjavik are genuinely one thing to behold.
However Iceland in winter is especially unbelievable for somewhat respite, as there’s an abundance of spas, geothermal waters, and scorching springs — such because the well-known Blue Lagoon — to loosen up in. Slowing down can also be virtually pressured upon you, as entry to components of the island will be restricted within the winter months, and the shorter days imply much less time for outdoor exploration. Nonetheless, I completely adored my Christmas and New Yr snowy break right here, and in January, you would possibly even snag an ideal deal.
Latvia’s Gauja Nationwide Park
Latvia is criminally missed, and whereas its huge swathes of forests and native obsession with getting out in nature make it a incredible summer season mountain climbing vacation spot, it’s additionally top-of-the-line locations to go in January for Northern Europe’s famed sauna tradition with out Finland’s price ticket.
For hundreds of years, saunas and bathhouses have been a staple in Latvian tradition. There is no such thing as a scarcity of spa accommodations, distant cabins, and luxurious accommodations within the nation, and a sauna is just about assured. So, if you need an inexpensive, stress-free and rejuvenating winter getaway, set your sights on this Baltic state.
Personally, I’d counsel getting out of Riga (it’s most magical at Christmas) and heading into Latvia’s pristine Gauja Nationwide Park. Not solely is it postcard-perfect when snow coats the timber and trails, however there are some incredible castles — comparable to Cēsis, the place you’re given a candlelight to discover — if you’re taking a break from being pampered.
Greatest European cities to go to in January
As soon as the Christmas markets have closed and the final of the mulled wine supped, Europe’s cities say farewell to festive cheer and as an alternative welcome again fairer-priced accommodations. It can be one of many quietest months to go to fashionable locations comparable to Venice (earlier than the carnival in February) and over-touristered Dubrovnik in Croatia. On the flip aspect, hotter January cities, comparable to Lisbon and Seville, are nonetheless fairly fashionable. However past fewer crowds and extra inexpensive flights, one of the best European metropolis breaks in January provide a robust argument for visiting.
Amsterdam, The NetherlandsÂ
The capital of The Netherlands is arguably top-of-the-line European cities to go to in January. Not solely do you’ve got loads of world-class museums to tour if rain showers come, however there’s nonetheless a fascinating air to town, particularly if the canals are frozen, and locals are out ice skating.
Including to the magic of a January weekend break in Amsterdam is the Mild Pageant, which continues effectively into the center of the month. Illuminated creations from world artists brighten town’s canals and streets with a digital app guiding you to the twinkling and neon installations.
By day, you possibly can discover Amsterdam’s glorious collections of museums, such because the intensive assortment of the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh’s most spectacular items, and the Rembrandt Home assortment.
San Sebastian (Donosia), Spain
Spain is among the greatest nations to go to in January in Europe for a large number of causes. The solar continues to be shining within the Canary Islands, Granada has its ski slopes, and the sixth of January sees Christmas celebrations. However within the nation’s verdant north, the Basque Nation is internet hosting its festivities, and there’s no higher place to expertise them than in certainly one of my favorite cities, the food-obsessed San Sebastián.
Already an absolute gastronomy mecca, due to being house to the Basque Culinary College, a number of Michelin star eating places, and bar tops laden with pintxos — a Basque model of tapas — there’s by no means actually a flawed time to go to town. However one of the best dishes typically come from underground, with invite-only gastronomic societies lengthy being credited with creating a few of the nation’s greatest cooks.Â
Fortunately, as a part of the full of life Tamborrada drum pageant (San Sebastián Day) on the twentieth of January, these unique personal culinary membership kitchens open their doorways to guests, permitting anybody on the town to take a peek right into a members-only world. That is because of the parades accompanying the 24 hours of drumming (yep, you learn that proper) being a convention of the societies and their members. Being top-of-the-line European cities to go to in January for a well-timed go to, you’ll must e book your lodge effectively prematurely.
Budapest, Hungary
Whereas many individuals rave about Budapest, it’s not certainly one of my favorite cities. Nonetheless, I can admire why so many individuals fall in love with it, and the various thermal baths throughout town make it a good alternative for a January metropolis break in Europe.
Meaning, when you’ve explored town’s highlights — such because the Fisherman’s Bastion and the hulking parliament constructing — you possibly can sink into some medicinal heat waters and loosen up.Â
Széchenyi Baths, one of many largest in Europe, is most spectacular, boasting greater than a dozen indoor and outside swimming pools. However there are many smaller, extra offbeat decisions for a dip. What I discovered made the bathhouse tradition so particular in Budapest was that it wasn’t simply vacationers utilizing them, however you’ll get a superb perception into native life too, as folks play chess and households get collectively to heat up in winter.
Heat European locations in January
Whereas there aren’t actually any scorching January locations in Europe, there are some hotter spots the place winter solar is probably going, if not assured. Nonetheless, even if you head south, it’s greatest to e book ready for some cloud cowl or showers and perceive {that a} ‘seaside vacation’ in January does include some dangers. Nevertheless, if you need a cheap-ish getaway to get away from the gray again house, these three are a few of January’s greatest European seaside locations.
The Algarve, Portugal
With plenty of private expertise of the Algarve in January — it’s house — I’d say it’s a fairly good guess. Even writing this text now in late November, I’m sitting outdoors basking in 20 levels, and I typically get pleasure from my Christmas dinner on a sun-kissed terrace.
Nonetheless, showers do come and go all through the winter, though probably the most important rainfall is normally recorded in December, with January normally hitting a nice 16 levels within the daytime. However one of many causes I really like January a lot is how peaceable it’s. Many companies in smaller villages shut for his or her holidays round now, which may put some guests off, which means cliff-top hikes and afternoons on the seaside are blissfully devoid of individuals.
It’s additionally top-of-the-line locations to go to in January in Europe because the accommodations are closely discounted at the moment of the yr; generally, I even take somewhat staycation to get pleasure from a 5* expertise for lower than €30 an evening. Madeira and Porto Santo, Portugal’s extra southerly islands, are additionally two extra of Portugal’s greatest locations to go in January in Europe for hotter climates.
Malta
A twin-island escape to Malta and Gozo, certainly one of Europe’s smallest nations, will enable you get pleasure from one of many warmest January locations in Europe. Highs are normally round 15 levels, and whereas there’s rain, it’s normally solely brief showers each few days.
Alongside the incredible seashores and nice worth January offers, there are additionally loads of cultural sights to get pleasure from if the climate does flip, comparable to exploring the underrated capital metropolis of Valletta, a stunning mishmash of medieval sandstone buildings, or venturing inside museums spanning all the things from archaeological sights to nice arts. For round three weeks in January, you can even benefit from the Valletta Baroque Pageant, with a program of classical concert events in a few of the island’s most interesting Baroque buildings.
Canary Islands, SpainÂ
Spain’s Macaronesia islands are geographically in Africa, which means you’ll definitely get pleasure from hotter climate than mainland Europe. Actually, the archipelago is among the few locations in Europe which often hits 20 levels in winter.
Every of the eight foremost Canary Islands has its personal persona, and whereas seashores are a standard thread, you’ll wish to analysis which island ticks your private packing containers. Arid Lanzarote is normally considered the most well liked of the group, because it’s closest to the Sahara and has all kinds of wonderful seashores starting from golden sands to crimson and volcanic black.
For extra volcanic vistas, enterprise to the UNESCO-listed Teide Nationwide Park in Tenerife, the biggest and maybe most rounded Canary Islands, or get pleasure from a extra offbeat expertise in Fuerteventura, the place there are incredible winter wind sports activities, or El Hierro, the smallest and least visited isle. If you happen to’re in search of the warmest European locations in January, it doesn’t get significantly better than the Canaries.
