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Summer may be the high season in Europe but travelling in the wintertime is also a great experience.
Cities are not busy, there are barely any tourists… it’s very enjoyable.
This is why I particularly love travelling in January and if you are like me, then these warm places in Europe in January are perfect if you want some winter sun.
You will find below a selection of amazing destinations in Southern Europe (because yeah, that’s where the sun is at this time of the year) and what to do there.
1. Naples, Italy
🌡️ Average temperature in Naples in January: 6° – 14°C
Located in the southern part of Italy, Naples is famous for its delicious food and its proximity to Mount Vesuvius, Pompeii and Capri island.
It’s a great place to visit in Europe in winter as the temperature is mild and it’s a sunny destination. With an average of 17°C during the day, Naples is one of the top warm places in Europe in March.
If you love Italian food, Naples will be your paradise. It’s the birthplace of the espresso and pizza margarita. When it comes to food, Neapolitans don’t kid!
There is no shortage of amazing restaurants and cafes in Naples. No matter where you go, you will get to eat delicious food.
Pro tip: A pizza Margherita in Naples should cost around 4 euros. Use this as a scale of reference to know if the restaurant you are looking at is for locals or tourists.
For example, if they charge 7 euros for a pizza Margherita, you can be sure it’s a tourist trap! It won’t be authentic and they will charge you a fortune!
Naples used to be both a greek and roman colony, hence the saying “See Naples and die”. If you’d like to know more about the history of Naples, make sure to go on a walking tour with a local guide.
In terms of day trips, you will be spoilt for choice. Capri, the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii are the most popular trips from Naples.
Another place that is worth checking out is Mount Vesuvius however it can get quite cold in winter so make sure you have a good coat and a beanie.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: In terms of accommodation, make sure to book something in the historic centre. That way, you will be within walking distance of all the main attractions and the station.
Caesar Napoli is a beautiful flat and particularly well located. See prices here.
READ MORE: Discover exactly how to go on a day trip from Naples to Pompeii.
2. Lisbon, Portugal
🌡️ Average temperature in Lisbon in January: 8° – 15°C
The Portuguese capital city is also one of the warmest places to visit in Europe in winter. If you are looking for a cheap getaway in Western Europe, Lisbon will be perfect for you!
Mainly known for its delicious food, vintage tramways, street art and hills, Lisbon has loads to offer to every kind of visitor. Lisbon is a very popular destination and visiting in winter is a great way to explore the city away from the crowds.
If you are into culture and history, make sure to go on a walking tour in the historic centre.
You will learn plenty about the Portuguese colonisation, Portugal during WWII and the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. Click here to see prices.
Make sure to also check out Alfama district. This up and coming neighbourhood is great to see street art and eat delicious food!
Of course, if you want to try the famous local delicacy, the pastel de nata, make sure to head to Belem. You can also visit the Tower of Belem.
Finally, Lisbon is a great destination to go party! If you fancy grabbing a drink and partying all night, Barrio Alto is the place for you!
There are also loads of day trips you can take from Lisbon. The most popular one is going to Sintra. This fairytale village is perfect for Instagram photos!
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Hotel Lis – Baixa is a great option.
3. Canary Islands cruise
Recommended by Jenni from Cruise Mummy
🌡️ Average temperature in the Canary Islands in January: 5° – 14°C
The Canary Islands are warm all year round, with highs of 20°C being common in the winter months.
One of the best ways to explore the Canary Islands is by cruise ship.
A Canary Islands cruise will enable you to explore a new island each day, getting off the ship after breakfast and returning in time for dinner.
The number of winter cruises in Europe is limited because many cruise ships relocate across the Atlantic to offer Caribbean cruises during the winter months.
However, as the Canary Islands are some of the warmest destinations in Europe, you can easily cruise here all year round.
If your cruise departs from the UK, you’ll find that it’s very cold at the start of your cruise, with the weather heating up as your ship sails south.
It takes around three days to cruise from Southampton to Tenerife, so you’ll want to pack a variety of clothes including coats and sweaters, shorts and t-shirts and swimwear.
Your cruise line will offer guided excursions which will show you all the highlights of each destination.
This is an ideal way to decide which of the Canary Islands you like best so that you can return there for a longer holiday.
4. Santorini, Greece
Recommended by Monique from Trip Anthropologist
🌡️ Average temperature in Santorini in January: 9° – 14°C
The most beautiful of the Greek islands has several large cruise ships disembarking passengers every day over summer.
This makes Oia’s narrow windy streets difficult to traverse.
Taxis are hard to come by and are expensive, and the island’s buses are full to bursting.
But that doesn’t mean Santorini is anything but magical. It just means that there are other times of year when its magic is all yours.
Winter can be very windy in Santorini and a jacket is necessary.
Swimming off a boat to the warm springs of the volcano is bracing but fun, and snorkelling and diving is best wearing wetsuits.
The sunsets are even more perfect because there are no crowds lining every street along the edge of the caldera. It is also a wonderful time to take one of the world’s most spectacular walks – the Fira to Oia hike.
In summer a long line of hikers are strung out over the 10-kilometre walk but in winter you can take a picnic and only encounter a few people along the way.
Visiting Ancient Akrotiri – Greece’s Pompeii, is an incredible experience at any time of year and it is a pleasure to visit this site without cruise ships bussing large numbers of people to the ancient Minoan city.
You can take your time strolling the streets that Akrotirians walked 3500 years ago and peer into their homes.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Accommodation in Santorini is often booked a year ahead but in winter the hotels have significant discounts.
Premiere accommodation in Oia has private outdoor hot tubs with views of the caldera and sunset over the volcano. These include Mystique, Adronis, Santo Maris, Charisma, and Filotera Suites. See prices here.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Recommended by Coni from Experiencing the Globe
🌡️ Average temperature in Dubrovnik in January: 7° – 12°C
For sure you’ve heard about Dubrovnik, most likely about the beaches in the beautiful Adriatic Sea, setting it in your head as a summer destination. But the city in winter is even better!
Its main attraction is the City Walls, which you’ll get to walk off-season without the summer crowds.
Another reason Dubrovnik became a must-see destination was Game of Thrones.
King’s Landing in winter is much more stunning than in summer when you’ll be able to fully appreciate the beautiful settings of the series.
If that’s not enough to set your mind into visiting in wintertime, one statistic will –Dubrovnik has more than 250 sunny days per year, so you might have some sun and even go for a swim!
As for winter-specific activities, the town also shines.
In December it offers a Winter Festival, dressing up the main road of the Old Town, Stradun, with festive colours, stalls with food, drinks and crafts, and even an ice-skating rink.
And in February Dubrovnik celebrates its patron, Saint Blaise, in an event that has been taken place uninterruptedly for over a millennium!
Since 972 the locals get together to celebrate the “City of Dubrovnik Day”, and maybe next time you can join them.
Pack a jacket, but also a bathing suit, most likely you’ll be using both! And remember that you’ll be a more sustainable traveller visiting the city off-season, not contributing to over-tourism.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: In terms of accommodation, Apartment Taura is a beautiful flat located in the old town. It’s the perfect base to start exploring Dubrovnik in winter. See prices here.
6. Bodrum, Turkey
Recommended by Michele Peterson from A Taste for Travel
🌡️ Average temperature in Bodrum in January: 8° – 15°C
One of the best winter destinations for warm weather is the Bodrum Peninsula on the southwest coast of Turkey.
While most popular as a summer destination for honeymooners and jet-setters, in the winter months the weather reaches highs of 18 Celsius but is sunny, quiet and just as alluring as in the summer season.
Attractions within the town of Bodrum itself include a picturesque waterfront marina home to Bodrum Castle (built in 1402), an Underwater Archeology Museum as well as winding streets lined by boutiques, restaurants and cafes.
The Bodrum Peninsula is home to some of Turkey’s best cuisine.
A top spot for evening dining is La Pasion Restaurant, where the menu features tapas served in a charming courtyard.
Further afield is Karnas Vineyards where you can sample their award-winning Shiraz and Zinfandel wines along with a selection of the fine local cheeses.
Given its rich history, there’s a wealth of things to do in Bodrum.
Formerly known as the Greek city of Halicarnassus, Bodrum was home to the Carians, the Greeks, and the Ottomans.
Don’t miss the impressive Myndos Gate, constructed in the 4th century B.C. and once part of the ancient city walls.
Also important is the nearby Mausoleum of Mausolus, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and built between 353 and 350 B.C. by Artemisia as a monument to love.
Another thing to do is visit the Bodrum Amphitheatre, an impressive coliseum and former venue for gladiator fights.
Today it’s used as a concert venue and offers fabulous views of the harbour from the top of the amphitheatre’s audience seating.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: Luxurious places to stay around Bodrum include Mandarin Oriental overlooking Paradise Bay, the Kempinski Hotel Barbaros Bay Bodrum, The Bodrum by Paramount in Torba Bay and the DoubleTree by Hilton Marina Vista.
It’s important to note that many hotels close seasonally so the selection may be more limited. Click here for availability and prices.
7. Cyprus
Recommended by Maggie from The World Was Here First
🌡️ Average temperature in Cyprus in January: 4° – 16°C
If you’re searching for the perfect warm destination to visit in Europe this winter, you really cannot go wrong with heading to Cyprus.
This lovely island nation tucked in the southeastern Mediterranean is packed with history and boasts perennial good weather, meaning that planning a Cyprus itinerary is a good idea any time of year.
In fact, visiting Cyprus in winter may even be preferable than travelling there during the more popular summer months.
Because of its southern location, Cyprus can get incredibly hot in the months of May-September and its coastal areas can also end up absolutely packed with visitors.
In the winter, however, you will still see sunny days and temperatures in the high teens to low twenties but with a fraction of the crowds.
Cyprus is known for its coastal destinations, and you cannot miss the historic city of Paphos with its beautiful beaches and incredible historical landmarks.
It is also believed to be the mythical birthplace of the Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, and you can even visit the beautiful cove where this goddess rose from the sea foam.
If you’re interested in exploring and learning about the geopolitical side of Cyprus, then make sure to head to the capital of Nicosia.
This is considered to be the last divided capital in Europe and you can even cross the Green Line to visit the Turkish side of the city in Northern Cyprus – just make sure to bring your passport.
Because the weather is mild, you don’t need to bring any winter clothes with you while visiting Cyprus in winter. All you will need is a light jacket for potentially chilly evenings.
8. Malta
Recommended by Suzanne from Meandering Wild
🌡️ Average temperature in Malta in January: 9° – 16°C
Malta is a small island nation located in the Mediterranean south of Italy. It is made up of three islands – Malta, Gozo and Comino.
In the summer months the temperatures are high, but in the winter months whilst the islands are still warm the temperature is much more comfortable.
Packing is easy but ensure that you have warm layers as the winds can be fierce and cool.
In the winter months, the number of visitors drops significantly meaning that places that are busy in the summer months become quiet making for easy exploring.
The main town of Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has a hilltop location overlooking two natural harbours. Close by is the small town of Mdina.
This is dominated by the dome of St Paul’s Cathedral and is quite special as only 300 people live in the town and in the evenings, it is quiet and deserted.
If you have time, then visiting Gozo is definitely worth considering. This island is best known for its spectacular diving which continues through the winter months.
The Citadel in Rabat and the beautiful Ta’ Pinu Sanctuary in Gharb are worth exploring while visiting this wild and rugged island.
Malta has lovely food which has a strong Italian influence with salads and pizza being some of the more common local foods. Seafood is fresh on the islands and the restaurants know how to cook it perfectly.
There are so many options of where to eat and stay that you will be spoilt for choice.
9. Granada, Spain
🌡️ Average temperature in Granada in January: 2° – 12°C
When it comes to warm winter destinations in Spain, Andalusia sets the standard!
Located in the Southern part of Spain, Granada is one of the sunniest destinations in Europe!
It gets very hot in summer and is pretty busy in spring and autumn, which is why visiting in winter is a great thing to do! Much smaller than Seville and Malaga, Granada is yet one of the best places to visit in Andalusia.
It’s home to the Alhambra. Not only this palace features beautiful gardens but it’s also an architectural masterpiece.
The symbiosis between Spanish and Arabic architecture is truly remarkable
You can buy tickets online however as it’s very popular, make sure to book in advance. You can also opt for a guided tour.
That’s a great way to make the best of your visit. It’s so big that having explanations along the way is definitely a plus! Pro tip: If everything is booked, opt for an evening visit!
Granada is also a paradise for foodies! That’s where tapas and churros are from! Tapas in Granada are free and come with drinks. Each time you order a drink, they will bring some tapas to go with it.
For breakfast, head to a local cafe and get some churros with chocolate! Delicious!
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: The best place to stay in Granada is the city centre. Qh Granada Centro is a nice studio in the centre. Check prices here.
Please note that it’s preferable to rent a car when exploring Granada and Andalusia. There are a lot of things to see in the region and driving will make everything easier.
You can check the prices for car rentals here.
10. Lampedusa, Italy
🌡️ Average temperature in Lampedusa in January: 12° – 16°C
If you are craving to visit a paradisiacal island in winter, Lampedusa is the perfect destination for you. It’s definitely one of the hottest places in Europe in January! The lowest average temperature is 12 degrees!
This Sicilian island is located in the Mediterranean Sea. It’s one of the Pelagie Islands.
Lampedusa is particularly famous for its beautiful white and sandy beaches such as:
- Rabbit beach
- Tabaccara
- Guitgia Beach
- Cala Pulcino
- Cala Croce
There are a lot of cheap flights to Lampedusa, especially from Milan however you won’t find any direct flights from European airports outside of Italy (not even London!).
You will have to have a layover at an Italian airport.
Looking for cheap flights to Lampedusa? Compare the prices and find the best fares here.
🏨 WHERE TO STAY: In terms of accommodation, hotels and B&Bs in Lampedusa are very cheap in winter. You can easily score a great room for less than 30 euros per night!
La Gariga is an excellent hotel located in the historic centre of Lampedusa. Check prices here.
11. Barcelona, Spain
🌡️ Average temperature in Barcelona in January: 9° – 15°C
Located in between the beautiful Costa Brava and Costa Daurada, Barcelona is an excellent winter destination for people looking to escape the cold weather.
Barcelona is a haven for all architecture lovers. It was basically built under the vision of one man, Antoni Gaudi. If you are visiting Barcelona for the first time, make sure to go to Park Guell, Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter.
The amazing thing about visiting Barcelona in winter is that it’s way less busy and you will get to see and do way more. In summer, it’s pretty much impossible to get tickets for the Gaudi attractions without taking a skip-the-line ticket.
In winter, tourists are not as many which means that the queues are shorter (if any) and everything is a bit cheaper! Especially accommodation!
🏨 WHEREE TO STAY: Speaking of accommodation, I highly recommend staying in the Gothic Quarter or Gracia if you can. They are very lively neighbourhoods and particularly well located.
In Gracia, opt for Feelathome Mozart Apartments. Click here to see prices.
In the Gothic Quarter, Hotel El Call offers nice rooms and it’s very affordable. Prices here.
The nightlife in Barcelona is also a great reason to visit the Catalan capital. In La Barceloneta, you will find loads of bars and nightclubs. Perfect for a good night out!
12. Corsica, France
Recommended by Elisa from France Bucket List
🌡️ Average temperature in Ajaccio in january: 4° – 14°C
The French island of Corsica, in the Mediterranean Sea, is a good warm winter destination for your next holidays.
Corsica is well known for its pristine beaches, natural wonders, traditional food, and Napoleon.
The mountains of Corsica may see some snow during the coldest months of the year, but if you stay on the coast you will find mild temperatures that can reach up to 13C on sunny days, which is not bad!
There are many fun things to do in Corsica.
In the wintertime, the island is great for beach walks, boat trips, bike rides or hikes around the coast and of course sightseeing, and culinary trips.
The best way to travel to Corsica is by plane or ferry being Ajaccio and Bastia the most popular entry points.
Once you land in Corsica, the best way to move around is by car. In winter, however, it is better to use the coastal roads rather than crossing the island through the mountains.
Ajaccio is the capital of Corsica and it is an interesting city to explore.
It has a pretty old town, a colorful market, and the beach is never far.
Ajaccio is also Napoleon’s birthplace so there are many sights related to Napoleon.
Start your road trip from Ajaccio or use it as a base camp to explore other sites on day trips.
Your Corsica packing list will depend on what you want to do on the island. Check Corsica’s weather forecast during your holidays and pack accordingly.
A warm jacket and good walking shoes, however, are always good to have.
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