I’ve spent a lot of Januarys in Europe…partly because my wife’s Austrian, partly because I can’t resist off-season travel, and mostly because it’s one of the best times to see the continent without the chaos. Over the years, I’ve been to 38 European countries and spend about two months here each year, often chasing that rare combo of sunshine, affordability, and actually-fun things to do in winter.
So yes, it might be snowing in Berlin or Paris, but there are still places where you can sit outside with a coffee, explore old towns in a t-shirt, or even dip your toes in the sea. This list is all about those spots. These are the 13 warmest (and coolest) places to visit in Europe in January 2026…places I’ve either personally visited or tracked closely, with major airports, easy connections, and prices that won’t punch your wallet. Let’s find your perfect winter escape!
Top Warm January destinations in Europe (2026 guide)
Dreaming of sunshine and off-season deals in Europe this winter? I’ve rounded up the warmest (and honestly, coolest) spots across the continent to visit in January. Tap any destination below to skip ahead and find your perfect winter escape.
- Best for Sunny City Vibes: Lisbon, Portugal
- Top Ancient City Without the Crowds: Athens, Greece
- Warmest Island Winter Getaway: Tenerife, Spain
- Best for Historic Wanders & Comfort Food: Rome, Italy
- Top Nature Retreat in the Atlantic: Madeira, Portugal
- Most Chill Mediterranean Metropolis: Barcelona, Spain
- Best UNESCO Old Town With Sea Views: Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Warmest Cultural Time Capsule: Malta
- Best Glam Coastal Escape: French Riviera, France
- Top Tapas & History Combo: Seville, Spain
- Most Underrated Island Escape: Sicily, Italy
- Best for Beach Strolls + Paella: Valencia, Spain
- Warmest Eastern Mediterranean Gem: Cyprus
Here’s my pick: if you want full-on beach weather, head to Tenerife or Cyprus. For a warmer city break with culture and food that slaps, check out Lisbon, Athens, or Seville. I’ve mapped out all the hidden gems and personal recs below!

1. Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is one of the few European cities where you can sip a coffee outdoors in January without freezing. Expect average highs around 15°C (59°F) and a relaxed, sunny vibe with about 5–6 hours of daylight. Rain’s possible but usually light.
This is the time to explore iconic neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto without the usual crowds. Hop on the historic Tram 28, catch city views from a miradouro, and warm up with pastéis de nata from a local bakery. January travel means fewer lines, lower hotel rates, and a more authentic feel across the city.
Plus, direct flights to Lisbon are easy from nearly all major European cities, thanks to TAP Air Portugal, Ryanair, and easyJet. I spent hours wandering the colorful streets without a single tour group in sight, finally able to hear the trams rattling over cobblestones. If you’re craving sunshine with culture, food, and affordable prices, Lisbon delivers.
- Read next: Underrated Places in Lisbon
- You may also like: Things to Do in Lisbon at Night

2. Athens, Greece
Athens in January offers a much calmer take on the ancient capital. The weather stays mild with highs around 13°C (55°F) and 4–5 hours of sun a day, perfect for sightseeing without the brutal summer heat. Wander the Acropolis, visit the Ancient Agora, or enjoy traditional Greek comfort food in cozy tavernas.
You’ll also get a front-row seat to Epiphany Day celebrations on January 6, a local holiday with parades and diving rituals. What makes Athens shine this time of year is the balance between history and real local life – fewer tourists, better prices, and a slower pace. Whether you’re a culture buff or just want good weather with even better food, it’s a winter win.
Flights from across Europe are plentiful via Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, and Sky Express. I found myself actually able to contemplate the ancient ruins in peaceful silence, something impossible during the chaotic summer months.
- Read next: Athens in 48 Hours
- You may also like: Things to Do for Young Adults in Athens

3. Tenerife, Spain
If you’re chasing warmth, Tenerife is hands-down the hottest destination in Europe this January. Expect highs around 21°C (70°F), lots of sunshine, and almost no rain. The beaches are wide open and great for lounging, surfing, or paddleboarding, while Teide National Park offers hiking through otherworldly volcanic landscapes.
January is also a great time for whale watching off the island’s southern coast. Compared to summer, the island is quieter, cheaper, and still buzzing with local life. Whether you’re into adventure or relaxation, Tenerife has range.
Direct flights are abundant year-round from the UK, Germany, Spain, and beyond via Jet2, Vueling, and Ryanair. I couldn’t believe I was hiking through volcanic terrain in shorts while my friends back home were scraping ice off their windshields. It’s the ultimate winter escape if you want sun with a splash of nature.
- Read next: Unmissable Activities in Canary Islands

4. Rome, Italy
Rome in January is like the Eternal City on airplane mode—calm, cool, and wide open. With highs around 12°C (54°F) and minimal rain, this is the perfect time to roam the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Vatican Museums without elbowing through crowds. The city’s food scene turns cozy in winter: think rich carbonara, steaming espresso, and warm pastries in quiet cafes.
January is also prime time for sales shopping and post-holiday calm. You’ll still get around 4 hours of sun daily, enough to enjoy long strolls through Trastevere or along the Tiber. Flights are easy to find through Fiumicino Airport, with winter service from all major European hubs via ITA Airways, Ryanair, and easyJet.
For history, comfort food, and fewer lines, Rome’s winter side is the move. I walked through the Vatican Museums at my own pace for the first time ever, actually able to appreciate the art without being pushed along by crowds.
- Read next: Magical Things to Do in Rome at Night

5. Madeira, Portugal
Craving nature without the chill? Madeira is your winter paradise. This Portuguese island stays warm and green in January, with temps hovering around 19°C (66°F) and 5–6 hours of daily sun. Rain is light and doesn’t stick around.
Known for its epic levada hikes, rugged cliffs, and charming capital Funchal, Madeira is a dream for outdoorsy types and slow travelers. January also brings colorful markets, floral gardens, and a relaxed, uncrowded vibe. Bonus: local wine tastings and seafood dishes are top-notch.
It’s far less touristy than mainland Portugal and much more lush. Direct flights from Lisbon, London, and Frankfurt make access easy with TAP, easyJet, and Jet2. I spent an entire day hiking the levadas without seeing another soul, surrounded by waterfalls and subtropical forests that felt like a secret world. For island beauty and a dose of sun, Madeira hits different.
- Read next: The Nomad Escape Review
- You may also like: Popular Digital Nomad Destinations

6. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona‘s January is low-key perfect for culture lovers who want a break from winter gloom. With daytime highs of 15°C (59°F) and 5 hours of sun, you can explore Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter without sweating…or waiting in long lines. The crowds are gone, but the vibe is still alive, especially in local tapas bars and along the Barceloneta boardwalk.
While the sea’s too cold to swim, the coastal air and city energy feel refreshing, not frozen. Winter sales make shopping extra fun, and you’ll score great hotel deals. El Prat Airport runs regular flights across Europe via Vueling, Ryanair, and Iberia.
If you want sun, culture, and flavor, all wrapped in a cool Catalan package, January in Barcelona just works. I finally got to see Gaudí’s masterpieces without fighting through selfie sticks and tour groups, making the architecture feel even more magical.
- Read next: Coolest Restaurants in Barcelona
- You may also like: Incredible Things to Do in Barcelona at Night

7. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik in January? It’s peaceful, pretty, and almost too quiet…but in the best way. You’ll get daytime temps around 12°C (54°F) with 4 hours of sun, and the city’s famous Old Town Walls feel like a private movie set. With no cruise ships and fewer tourists, you can actually hear the Adriatic breeze as you stroll the cobbled streets.
Visit Fort Lovrijenac, sip coffee in Gundulićeva Square, and enjoy fresh seafood at half the summer prices. While some tourist businesses close for winter, the cultural and culinary gems remain open. Flights are limited but still run via Zagreb, Vienna, and Frankfurt with Croatia Airlines and Lufthansa.
For a calm, cinematic escape, Dubrovnik delivers on charm. I walked the city walls completely alone at sunset, feeling like I had this UNESCO World Heritage site all to myself.
- Read next: Prettiest Places on the Adriatic Coast

8. Malta
In the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta offers a mix of ancient history and winter sunshine. January brings 16°C (61°F) days, 6 hours of sun, and fewer crowds. Explore Valletta, the medieval town of Mdina, or colorful fishing villages like Marsaxlokk.
History buffs can dive into temples older than the pyramids, while food lovers can enjoy hearty Maltese dishes like fenek (rabbit stew). The Epiphany Festival adds cultural flair in the first week of January. Rain comes and goes, but it’s rarely disruptive.
The sea is too cold for a swim, but great for long walks by dramatic cliffs. Direct flights come from the UK, France, Italy, and Germany via Air Malta, Ryanair, and Wizz Air. I was amazed to discover temples that predate Stonehenge, standing practically alone among these ancient stones while enjoying perfect weather. For warm temps and rich heritage, Malta is a sure bet.
- Read next: Must-Do Experiences in Malta

9. French Riviera, France
The French Riviera in January is cooler than summer – but still sunny, stylish, and uncrowded. Average highs sit at 13°C (55°F) with 5 hours of daily sun and very little rain. Base yourself in Nice and stroll the Promenade des Anglais, explore Cannes, or day-trip to Monaco.
January also kicks off Carnaval de Nice preparations and brings quieter museums like the Matisse Museum or Picasso Museum in Antibes. While you won’t be swimming, seaside views and French-Mediterranean cuisine more than make up for it. The Côte d’Azur shines best without the high season fuss.
Fly into Nice Airport, which stays active in winter via Air France, easyJet, and British Airways. I strolled through Cannes and actually found parking near the famous red carpet steps, something unthinkable in summer. For glamour without the crowds, this coast wins.
- Read next: Epic Airbnbs in the French Riviera
- You may also like: Prettiest Places in the Mediterranean
- For more reading: Unique Things to Do in Nice

10. Seville, Spain
If you’re after sunshine, Seville delivers big in January. Expect 17°C (63°F) highs, crisp evenings, and 6+ hours of daylight – plus minimal rain. With orange trees in bloom and Three Kings Day parades lighting up the streets, the city feels festive yet uncrowded.
Wander the Alcázar Palace, admire the Giralda Tower, and tap your feet to live flamenco in a tucked-away tavern. The food scene is vibrant year-round, especially in Santa Cruz, where you can hop from one tapas bar to another. Fewer tourists also mean better deals and shorter wait times at major sites.
Seville Airport (SVQ) is well connected via Vueling, Iberia, and Ryanair. I watched authentic flamenco in an intimate tablao where I was one of only a handful of tourists, surrounded by passionate locals who made the experience unforgettable. For one of Europe’s warmest and most culturally rich winter city breaks, Seville checks every box.
- Read next: Breathtaking Places in Andalusia

11. Sicily, Italy
Sicily‘s mild winters make it an underrated January gem. With highs around 16°C (61°F) and 5 hours of sun, you’ll have no problem exploring ancient ruins, baroque towns, and coastal villages. Head to Palermo for street food and architecture, or Catania to hike near Mount Etna.
The Feast of Saint Agatha begins ramping up late in the month and peaks in early February…worth timing your trip for. Seasonal dishes shine this time of year: fresh citrus, wild fennel, and warming pasta plates. January is also off-season, so hotel prices are slashed and locals have more time to chat.
Flights run regularly via Palermo and Catania with ITA Airways, Ryanair, and easyJet. I spent an entire afternoon in a Palermo market with vendors teaching me about local ingredients, something impossible during the busy summer season. For warmth, flavor, and soul, Sicily is a winter standout.
- Read next: Amazing Things to Do in Catania

12. Valencia, Spain
Valencia is a coastal city that stays warm and sunny well into winter, with average highs of 17°C (63°F) and 6 hours of sun per day. Walk the Turia River Park, visit the jaw-dropping City of Arts and Sciences, or wander the old town for Gothic architecture and great coffee. January kicks off with the lively Three Kings Parade, a family-friendly festival full of candy and color.
You’ll also eat well – this is the birthplace of paella, after all. Valencia’s beaches are too chilly for swimming, but perfect for strolls and sunset views. With fewer tourists, everything from museums to markets feels more relaxed.
Flights to VLC are easy year-round from across Europe via Ryanair, Vueling, and Iberia. I enjoyed the most authentic paella of my life in a local restaurant where the chef insisted on explaining the traditional cooking methods to me personally. Warm, affordable, and full of flavor, Valencia is a winter sleeper hit.
- Read next: Summer in Spain Bucket List
- You may also like: Spain’s Coolest Spots
- For more reading: Best Things to Do in Valencia
- Keep reading: Stunning Places to Visit in Spain

13. Cyprus
Cyprus is about as warm as Europe gets in January, with average highs of 17°C (63°F) and 5–6 hours of sun. While it’s too cold to swim, coastal walks, ancient ruins, and even mountain hikes await. Visit the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos, explore Larnaca’s cafes, or head to the Troodos Mountains for hiking and even light snow.

Early January also features the Epiphany Festival, celebrated with diving ceremonies and feasts. Food-wise, it’s a great time to enjoy halloumi, citrus fruits, and Cypriot stews. Crowds are minimal and prices are low, making it easy to explore without stress.
Direct flights come into Larnaca and Paphos via Wizz Air, Ryanair, and TUI from much of Europe. I found myself hiking in the Troodos Mountains in the morning and walking along Mediterranean beaches in the afternoon, a combination that felt almost surreal in January. Cyprus is a perfect winter escape that feels half-Greek, half-Middle Eastern…and totally underrated.
- Read next: Cyprus Travel Guide
