The winter holidays finally come to an end in January. The month is kicked off with New Year’s when travel is quite popular. Epiphany follows on January 6 and by mid-month the prices start to go down, allowing for very affordable travel.

Surely, after the holidays the budget may be limited and the last thing we think about is travel. But look at it this way: you get to relax, explore a new place, and not break the budget.

For those who want to explore Europe in January, LooknWalk has put together a list of best European destinations to visit.

European Destinations to Visit in January: Athens, Greece

January average temps: 10 C / 50 F
Average accommodation price: 25 EUR per night in a one bedroom apartment (for two)
>>book your accommodation in Athens now

Winter in Greece ranges from downright warm (on some islands) to very cold (on the mainland, in the mountains). Athens is somewhere in between. It is wet, thanks to its Mediterranean climate, but it’s also quite pleasant. The city can be visited year-round and January is a great choice if you don’t like the crowds (or heat) of summer. But do make sure to wear a windbreaker especially when you climb up to the Acropolis or Lycabettus Hill. Anafiotika is also charming year-round but the steps will get slippery if it rains.

The nightlife is amazing in the capital during winter, and the tavernas are always welcoming. If you dance the Argentine tango, there are plenty of milongas available (including nuevo milongas).

European Destinations to Visit in January: Bruges, Belgium

January average temps: 2 C / 37 F
Average accommodation price: 84 EUR per night in a double room
>> book your accommodation in Bruges now

Bruges is one of those European capitals which actually look good during winter. Bonus points, of course, if it snows. If the weather becomes too cold or wet for your taste, just hide indoors. There are a ton of taverns and restaurants to explore. Plus, you can always do some shopping, right? Did we mention that mid-January is when the winter sales kick in?

European Destinations to Visit in January: Palma de Mallorca , Spain

January average temps: 11.7 C / 53 F
Average accommodation price: 82 EUR per night in a double room (2 adults)
>>book your accommodation in Palma de Mallorca now

The quite warm weather makes Palma attractive during January. The city is not huge and can be easily tackled during a weekend, but the weather may entice you to stay longer. Of course, you won’t bump into too many tourists, which is great. There are historical places to check out and of course, you want to taste the local foods.

European Destinations to Visit in January: Rome, Italy

January average temps: 8.3 C / 47 F
Average accommodation price: 60 EUR per night in a double room
>>book your accommodation in Rome now

Just like Athens, Rome can be visited year-round. And if you are looking to avoid the hordes of tourists, January is a great choice. Yes, it can be quite cold at times and it may also snow. But, you can always hide in one of the museums, cafes, or trattoria to fight the cold.

On the other hand, there will be fewer tourists visiting the main sites. Do keep in mind that the sites operate on shorter visiting hours during winter.

European Destinations to Visit in January: Seville, Spain

January average temps: 10.6 C / 51 F
Average accommodation price: 35 EUR per night in a double room
>>book your accommodation in Seville now

If you are looking for a place where you won’t freeze your behind, Seville is a great choice. Aside from the mild weather, the food is also amazing. And, let’s not forget the architecture. Make sure to wear layers, wear some good walking shoes, and bring your camera to take gorgeous photos.

European Destinations to Visit in January: Brasov, Romania

January average temps:-10 C / 14 F
Average accommodation price: 20 EUR per night in a one-bedroom apartment (2 adults)
>>book your accommodation in Brasov

In case you wonder what happened to me that I recommend a cold destination, hear me out. Brasov, located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, is a real fairytale destination during winter. Sure, that’s if you enjoy cold and snow. But, I am sure, at least some of you do.

Aside from having a charming old city center – which looks even better if there’s snow -, Brasov is also a great base to explore Transylvania. The famous “Dracula” Castle (Bran Castle) is nearby. And the superb Sighisoara is just a stone throw’s away, too. Rasnov Citadel is close and so is Sinaia – famous for being home to some gorgeous palaces, the property of the Romanian Royal Family. And you can always hop on a train to either Cluj-Napoca or Bucharest and explore these lively cities, too.

European Destinations to Visit in January: Valetta, Malta

January average temps: 12 C / 54 F
Average accommodation price: 66 EUR per night in a studio apartment for two
>>book your accommodation in Valetta

For centuries, Malta has been at European crossroads, and this is clearly reflected in its architecture and food. La Valetta peninsula can easily be explored on foot and has a lot to offer. Check out the museums, the churches, and the Palace of the Grand Masters. Malta is not a cheap destination to visit, but winter makes it a more affordable choice.

Read also about:
>>5 Best European Destinations to Visit in February
>>6 Best European Destinations to Visit in March
>>7 Best European Destinations to Visit in April
>>7 Best European Destinations to Visit in May
>>5 Best European Destinations to Visit in June
>>5 Best European Places to Visit in July
>>5 Best European Destinations to Visit in August
>>10 Best European Destinations to Visit in September
>>10 Best European Destinations to visit in October
>>5 Best European Destinations to visit in November
>>5 Best European destinations to visit in December

In times of uncertainty, flexibility matters. We recommend booking an option with free cancellation in case your travel plans change.

Note: the article was updated in Nov 2023.
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