Keen to get the New Year off to the perfect start with a luxury getaway but don't have the time to commit to a long-haul flight? Our Luxury Travel Specialists have put their heads together, utilising their first hand experience to create a list of the best places to visit in Europe in January for different styles of holiday.
Whether you are dreaming of snow-covered Alpine peaks, escaping to warmer climes or exploring historic cities without the crowds of the summer months. Our Luxury Travel Specialists have provided a couple of suggestions for different styles of holiday which will hopefully provide some inspiration for your New Year break.
Best Places to Visit in Europe in January for Skiing Holidays
January is an excellent month for a European skiing holiday, with many Alpine resorts enjoying reliable snow cover and a lively atmosphere on the slopes. For an exceptional mountain escape, Zermatt in Switzerland is a particularly appealing choice. Sitting beneath the iconic Matterhorn mountain, this picturesque resort combines spectacular scenery with extensive skiing opportunities, high-altitude pistes and a sophisticated apres-ski scene.
Zermatt is well suited to experienced skiers seeking challenging runs, although its wider network of pistes also offers options for lower ability levels and newcomers. Off the slopes, visitors can enjoy fine dining, luxurious hotels and relaxing spa experiences, making it an attractive choice for couples and groups of friends or family who appreciate a balance of thrills and indulgence.
Alternatively, Finnish Lapland offers a very different winter sports experience. Rather than focusing solely on downhill skiing, a holiday here can combine cross-country skiing with snowshoeing, husky sledding and snowmobile excursions through snow-covered forests. The possibility of seeing the Northern Lights adds another memorable dimension to the experience.
While Zermatt is ideal for travellers seeking a classic Alpine ski holiday, Finnish Lapland is particularly appealing to those who want to combine winter activities with the magic of an Arctic landscape.
Best Places to Visit in Europe in January for Winter Sun
For travellers keen to drop the dreary winter weather for sunshine, the Canary Islands are among the best places to visit in Europe in January. Located off the North West coast of Africa, this Spanish archipelago enjoys a mild climate throughout the winter, with Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote all being ideal destinations for winter sun holidays.
Tenerife is a great choice for combining beach relaxation with sightseeing, from the volcanic landscapes of Teide National Park to coastal resorts with excellent restaurants and luxury accommodation. Lanzarote appeals to those who appreciate striking scenery, with its lava fields, volcanic vineyards and distinctive architecture providing plenty to explore between leisurely afternoons beside the sea. Although January is generally mild rather than boiling, it is an appealing time to enjoy outdoor activities without the presence of the peak summer crowds.
Malta is another worthwhile option. While temperatures are cooler than in the Canary Islands and swimming may be less appealing, the island offers a pleasant setting for coastal walks, historic sightseeing and relaxed dining. You could explore Valletta's Baroque architecture, visit the ancient walled city of Mdina or take a scenic boat trip whenever weather conditions allow.
The Canary Islands meanwhile is perhaps a better choice if you are hoping for winter warmth and outdoor relaxation, or Malta for a winter break combining Mediterranean scenery with fascinating cultural discoveries.
Best Places to Visit in Europe in January for Families
Finnish Lapland is difficult to beat for a memorable family holiday in January. Snow-covered forests, reindeer encounters and husky sledding create an enchanting setting for children and adults alike. A visit here is a great way to keep the Christmas magic flowing for a little longer, with families able to visit Santa Claus Village near Rovaniemi to thank the big guy for their Christmas gifts. You can also enjoy snow-based activities and, with a little luck, witness the Northern Lights illuminating the winter sky.
The cold temperatures mean that suitable clothing and carefully planned activities are essential, but the rewards can be extraordinary. A tailor-made Finnish Lapland holiday itinerary can balance outdoor adventures with cosy accommodation, warming meals and time to relax between excursions.
For families who would prefer milder weather, the Algarve in southern Portugal offers a more relaxed alternative. January is outside the main beach season, so holiday makers should not expect consistently warm swimming weather. However, the region's attractive coastline, scenic walking trails and traditional towns make it an appealing destination for families seeking space and relaxation. There's still plenty of things to keep the children entertained here with holiday resorts that offer fun filled kids clubs and sports academies, alongside attractions such as Zoo de Lagos which is open all year around.
Ultimately, Finnish Lapland is ideal for families with small children seeking a distinctive winter adventure, while the Algarve suits families with older children and teenagers who prefer outdoor exploration and the opportunity to escape from the British winter.
Best Places to Visit in Europe in January for Couples
Paris remains one of the most romantic destinations in Europe, whatever the season. In January, its elegant streets, atmospheric cafes and world-class museums provide an appealing backdrop for a couples break. With smaller crowds at many major attractions than during peak season, it can be an ideal time to explore the Louvre, admire the Eiffel Tower or enjoy a leisurely dinner in a neighbourhood bistro.
A luxury hotel, a private guided tour or an evening performance can add a personalised experience you will both enjoy on the run up to Valentines day. Although the weather can often be cold and damp, Paris offers plenty of indoor experiences that will appeal to all kinds of holiday makers.
For couples who prefer sunshine and breathtaking coastal scenery, Lanzarote is another excellent choice. Its volcanic landscapes, quiet coves and distinctive architecture provide a beautiful setting for a more laid back holiday. Here you could spend the day exploring Timanfaya National Park, visit the vineyards of La Geria for a wine tasting experience or enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the Atlantic ocean.
Paris is perfect for couples drawn to culture, fine dining and city romance, while Lanzarote offers a warmer alternative with opportunities for scenic drives, outdoor adventures and time beside the ocean.
Best Places to Visit in Europe in January for City Breaks
Rome is an excellent choice for a January city break, particularly for travellers interested in history, architecture and cuisine. Cooler temperatures make walking around ancient archaeological sites less strenuous than during the height of summer while the off peak season often ensures smaller crowds, giving you more time to pause and reflect.
Here you can explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum, admire the Vatican's extraordinary art collections or spend an afternoon discovering the city's piazzas and traditional trattorias. We'd advise making time to dine out sampling classic Italian cuisine and to explore the surrounding neighbourhoods, as Rome's appeal extends well beyond its most famous landmarks.
Athens is another perfect destination for a winter city break. The Greek capital combines remarkable ancient history with a lively contemporary food and cultural scene. Here we'd recommend visiting the Acropolis and its museum, wander through the historic Plaka district and enjoy panoramic views from one of the city's surrounding hills.
January is generally cooler and quieter than summer, although rain is possible at times. For holiday makers who want to explore archaeological sites without the intense heat of the summer months, January can be a particularly opportune time to visit.
Both cities offer rich cultural experiences, with Rome excelling with its Italian cuisine and ancient landmarks. Athens meanwhile stands out for its archaeological sites and scenic coastal regions.
Plan Your January Break in Europe with Elegant Resorts
From skiing beneath the Matterhorn to discovering the cultural treasures of Rome, the best places to visit in Europe in January offer something for almost every style of holiday maker. Whether you are planning a family adventure, a romantic getaway, a winter-sun holiday or a city break filled with history and exceptional dining, choosing the right destination for you can make the start to the New Year truly memorable.
At Elegant Resorts, our friendly and experienced Luxury Travel Specialists can provide bespoke recommendations tailored to your preferences, aspirations and requirements. With first-hand destination knowledge and a commitment to creating personalised itineraries, our team can help you find the right accommodation, experiences and activities for your ideal January break.
Get in touch with the Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts to discover which European destination best matches your vision for the New Year and begin planning a tailor-made escape designed entirely around your preferences.