Discover the best places to visit in January. Find inspiration among your selection of magical destinations for a snowy city break in January. Want to recharge your batteries? Visit wellness destinations for a detox cure in January or go skiing in the best ski resorts in Europe in January.

Do you miss the sun? Discover some of the best winter sun destinations to start the year by filling up on vitamin C. Make your choice and your à la carte trip by book your flights, your accommodation as well as your tours and activities and stay in the European Best Destinations to visit in January.

1. Costa Adeje - Tenerife

Canary Islands - Spain

Want a good reason to stay in Tenerife in January? It is the sunniest place in Europe at this time of year. After months of grey and rainy winter, how about recharging your batteries under the Tenerife sun? First tip: choose your spot.

Tenerife is a very large island and staying in the south or north of Tenerife are totally different experiences. If you are looking for winter sun, do not hesitate to book your accommodation in the south of Tenerife on the Costa Adeje. Sunshine is guaranteed (7hours of sunshine per day in January).

We advise you to take a rental car if you want to discover other parts of the island. The Costa Adeje (South of Tenerife) is very touristy and the most beautiful places such as San Andres, Benijo, Puerto de la Cruz, Garachico, are easier to reach if you have a rental car.

Book your flights to Tenerife South, your accommodation and your tours & activities in Tenerife such as a "Tenerife: Dolphin and Whale Eco-Cruise with Snack & Drinks".

  How to get there: Book your flights to Tenerife South Airport.

 Where to stay:  "Iberostar Grand El Mirador - Adults Only" located just off Duque Beach on the Costa Adeje.

2. Vale da Telha - Aljezur

Algarve - Portugal

A real landmark for surfers, yoga enthusiasts, digital nomads, Aljezur is above all one of the historic cities of Portugal (its castle appears on the Portuguese flag).

Deeply attached to nature and its protection, its population has long lived from fishing and agriculture and this is still partly the case - do not miss its sweet potato festival (end of November). More recently Aljezur has attracted new travellers who have settled there in search of wild, unspoiled nature. Its mythical beaches: Amoreira, Monte Clerigo, Arrifana, each has its identity.

Arrifana is ideal for learning to surf or just laying back and watching the spectacle of the endlessly returning waves and soaking up under the caressing sun in this sheltered cove. Monte Clérigo is irresistible with its old fishing village and its colourful houses, people come here to have a drink at the “Rede” café or eat at the “O Sagro” restaurant.

Finally, Amoreira beach (which has a river beach) is perfect for families with its shallow waters at low tide. Let's be honest, in January the water is freezing cold but walking along its wild and deserted beaches outside of high season is worth gold.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Faro and your transfer

 Where to stay: "Villa Sound of the Sea". Experience the beauty of nature and recharge your batteries

3. Ljubljana

Slovenia

The capital of Slovenia is often rewarded for its ecological commitment. It is also considered the greenest capital in Europe because it offers nearly 300m2 of green space per inhabitant, a record in Europe.

Very romantic, Ljubljana will suit young couples or eternal lovers as well as families. If it is magical at Christmas with its illuminations ranked among the most beautiful Christmas Lights in Europe, Ljubljana is an all-year round destination and January is a good month to take advantage of attractive prices on accommodation and activities and tours in Ljubljana. The strength of Ljubljana lies in its openness and character. Ljubljana keeps on  evolving and follows global sustainable trends but has still retained the charm and spark for those who love the historical city centre so much.

Book your flights to Ljubljana, your accommodation at the best price as well as your tours and activities such as a "Ljubljana: Guided Walk & Funicular Ride to Ljubljana Castle".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Ljubljana.

 Where to stay: "Art Hotel". Situated in the real heart of Ljubljana.

4. Calheta - Madeira Island

 Madeira Islands - Portugal

Madeira is a top destination for a January holiday in Europe. Located at the same level as the Moroccan Sahara, Madeira Islands are with the Canary Islands, the best winter sun destination in Europe.

If you want to stay in the sunniest and most beautiful part of the island, book your stay in Calheta.

With its real golden sand beach on the island (discover the most beautiful beaches of Madeira), Calheta is also famous for its museum of contemporary art, its 4 and 5 star hotels and its many airbnbs with views of the ocean and lush garden.

Calheta is a very beautiful town that encompasses other destinations not to be missed such as Jardim do Mar & Paul do Mar (perfect for surfing and to observe one of the most beautiful sunsets in Europe) and Ponta do Pargo and its very nice lighthouse.

Calheta is also the starting point for wonderful excursions and hikes. It is located near the tunnels that connect the south to the north of the island and you can go from the golden sand beach of Calheta to the volcanic black sand beach of Seixal in 3O minutes. You are also a 30 minute drive from Funchal, the tropical capital of this beautiful island. Many tours and activities such as sunset cruises or Dolphin and Whale watching tours depart from the Calheta marina.

The number 1 winter sun destination in Europe, Madeira is a must-see destination for sunny holidays in January.

Book your flights to Funchal as well as your accommodation, tours and activities in Madeira such  as a "Catamaran Dolphin and Whale Watching".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Funchal Airport.

 Where to stay: "Madeira Moments” for its breathtaking views of the ocean and its decoration.

5. Bavaria

Germany

Are you already nostalgic for Christmas, the snow, the fir trees, the atmosphere of a wood fire? Book your flights to Munich and discover the most beautiful castle in Germany: Neuschwanstein Castle. Sacred and for many years inaccessible, this castle was built on a rocky outcrop to enjoy magnificent views of the entire region.

Baron Neuschwanstein built the most beautiful castle in Germany. He wanted the gods to want to live in his castle while the demons would go and live in his mother's castle below. A somewhat bitter mother-son relationship that led to the construction of the most beautiful castle in Germany.

The Baron, who had the mountain dynamited in order to build this dream castle,  lived there for 2 years only before he died and unfortunately he could not see the castle all built.  Book your flights to Munich as well as your accommodation and tours and activities in Bavaria, such as a Day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich.

The best place to take the perfect photo of this castle is at Marienbrücke, a bridge at the entrance to the city. The castle is open in January, it is just closed on January 1st.

Opening hours: The castle is open every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Munich and drive to Neuschwanstein (1H50) or book your tour online.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Das Rübezahl”. With its superb views of the Hohenschangau and Neuschwanstein castles, this 4-star hotel also offers a spa, sauna and hammam." 

6. Benijo - Tenerife

Canary Islands - Spain

In January do you want sun, surfing, hiking in nature trails, discovering secret beaches, eating, laughing, living with the locals? Look no further, book your flights to Tenerife and drive to Benijo. Narrow winding roads surrounded by nature will bring you to this little piece of wild paradise. The easiest way to get there is from Santa Cruz de Tenerife by car. Stop on the heights of San André to photograph the sublime beach of Las Teresitas, one of the most beautiful beaches in Spain and drive at your own pace to Benijo.

Once you arrive in Benijo, be sure to park in an official car park, the police regularly patrol and badly parked drivers get a fine. Take your picnic with you or stop at one of the local bars to enjoy breathtaking views of this hidden gem. Are you athletic? Download a hiking application and discover the Anaga Natural Park. Bring good walking shoes, the path is sometimes slippery.

For a winter disconnected from the stress of big cities, book your flights to Tenerife, your accommodation and your tours and activities in Tenerife such as a "Tenerife: Dolphin and Whale Eco-Cruise".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Tenerife and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Jardin de la Paz" for its lush gardens and breathtaking views.  

7. Amsterdam

The Netherlands 

Why stay in Amsterdam in January? Because accommodation is up to 30% cheaper than in December, because there are fewer tourists in January and you will be mingling with the real inhabitants of Amsterdam.

If you are lucky you will be able to ice skate on the frozen lakes of Amsterdam like a real Dutchman (they are frosty too). There are only good reasons to stay in Amsterdam in January. January in Amsterdam is also the start of sales in thrift stores and designer boutiques. Truly romantic, Amsterdam offers many 4-star hotels or Airbnb’s for a cocooning stay in January.

Another reason to stay in Amsterdam in January? The Dutch wear casual clothes: if it's cold they wear big sweaters or a big down jacket. You don't need to be dressed to the nines to visit Amsterdam, come as you are and enjoy the thousand and one activities and tours in Amsterdam such as a as a City Canal Cruise.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Amsterdam and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam" set in a beautiful building on the banks of the River.

8. Nice

Cote d'Azur - France

What better way to start the year than a few rays of sunshine to warm up. Treat yourself to a walk along the "Promenade des Anglais", facing the Baie des Anges while listening to the sound of the waves lulling you.

Nice is one of the most beautiful cities on the French Riviera. Chic and elegant, just like its neighbour Cannes, it is a perfect destination to enjoy the first rays of the sun in January. If the temperatures are not those of summer you can still count on average temperatures around 10 degrees and many sunny days in January.

Be sure to visit Nice's covered or open-air markets to stock up on local produce, including the famous lemons of Nice (the Nice Lemon Festival takes place in mid-February. It is one of the most important events in Nice).

Want to visit the surroundings? Take the Azur Line bus. For 1 euro you can visit the most beautiful cities of the Côte d'Azur such as Monaco, Antibes, Cannes, Menton.

Book your flights to Nice, your accommodation and your tours & activities such as a "Nice: Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender Tour".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Nice and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Hotel de France" situated in the "Carré d'or" district.

9. Brighton

Sussex - UK

Certainly one of the most open-minded cities in the UK, Brighton is a bit like the San Francisco of the UK. More relaxed than London (and yet only 50 minutes by car or public transport), Brighton is a perfect city for families, lovers, culture or seaside enthusiasts. An openly gay friendly city, it attracts those able to walk off the beaten track, creatives, poets, romantics, artists.

Its wooden Pier is one of the symbols of this city, it is ranked among the most beautiful Piers in Europe. Brighton is an endearing and perfect destination for a seaside getaway away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.

In January take a walk along the coast, visit the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery, come and skate with the children on the Royal Pavilion Ice Rink or simply explore Brighton, its restaurants, pubs, independent shops and stroll according to your desires. During your stay do not miss to visit the Seven Sisters Country park located just 40 minutes from Brighton. Want to get high? Book your ticket for the "Brighton: British Airways I360" or your ticket for the "Brighton Zip Line Experience".

 How to get there: Book your flights to London Gatwick (50 min by car or public transport).

 Where to stay: "Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton - Waterfront" overlooking the seafront.

10. The Dolomites

Tyrol - Italy

Ranked among the Best cycling destinations in Europe but also Best National Parks and Best Natural wonders in Italy, the Dolomites is a unique destination in Europe.

If you like to ski, stay in Cortina d'Ampezzo ranked among the best ski resorts in Italy. Cortina d'Ampezzo is a world-renowned resort in Northern Italy. It is 40 kilometres from the Austrian border; it is famous for the quality of its slopes and infrastructure and is within easy reach (highways, buses, Venice and Verona airports).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Treviso Airport (130km) but you can also land at Venice (150km).

 Where to stay: The "Rosapetra Spa Resort" is elegant and refined; it is the perfect hotel for couples looking for an active and romantic winter holiday.

11. London

UK

It's no secret that London is irresistible for sales in January. Instead of going broke on Christmas shopping, save up and take advantage of slashed prices in London's shops in January.

Do you avoid fast fashion and want to find original clothes and decorations? Take refuge in the Notting Hill district and discover the incredible markets of Portobello Road. A bit like the Saint-Ouen district in Paris, it is the district of antique shops, thrift stores, second-hand, street-food. The people of Notting Hill and Portobello Road are as colourful as their colourful houses. To find rare pieces, to eat or simply to stroll, Portobello is an incredible bric-a-brac that will seduce you.

Visit Portobello on the weekends to access all the markets at the same time. Antiques and collectables on Friday and Saturday, Flea Market on Friday and Saturday, Vintage and New Fashion from Friday to Sunday and Street food, fruit, vegetables every day (Farmers market on Saturday only).

Book your flights to London, your accommodation in Portobello and your tours & activities in London such as a “Notting Hill Walking Tour”.

 How to get there: Book your flights to London and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "The Portobello Hotel" for its quiet location in elegant Notting Hill

12. Gstaad

Switzerland

In January ski in a legendary ski resort. Gstaad is not only one of the best ski resorts in Switzerland, it is also one of the most luxurious ski resorts in Europe. Gstaad has an exceptionally diverse range of winter offers: these include 220 kilometres of slopes and the only glacier ski area in the Bernese Oberland, sunny terraces of cosy mountain restaurants and ski slope bars attract guest.

Specialists enjoy themselves in different snow parks or in the extensive freeride and ski touring area. Gstaad is also one of the top cross-country ski areas in the Alps and is considered a tobogganist's paradise.

Book your flights to Zurich or Geneva (2h) as well as your accommodation in Gstaad.

How to get there: Book your flights to Zurich or Geneva (2h by car, 3h by train).

Where to stay: "Ultima Gstaad". The hotel offers an 800m2 spa area.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zurich or Geneva (2h by car, 3h by train) and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Ultima Gstaad". The hotel offers an 800m2 spa area.

13. Paris 

France 

Elegant throughout the year, Paris is sublime dressed in a white blanket of snow in January.

Can’t make up your mind  between ski holidays and city breaks? Come and ski on the Montmartre hill. Every year a few acrobats ski in the sloping gardens of this historic site. Less busy than at Christmas, Paris is quieter in January.

It's cold outside ? Come and take refuge in the many museums of Paris such as the Pompidou Museum or the Louvre classified among the best museums in Europe. Lose yourself in the alleys of Montmartre where famous painters such as Picasso lived. Buy “Ladurée” macaroons and visit Versailles for a 100% Marie-Antoinette trip. Climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower and admire Paris under the snow or treat yourself to a Romantic Canal Cruise.

Book your flights to Paris, your accommodation and your tours and activities for a City break combining culture, shopping and gastronomy in January.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Paris and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Fauchon L'Hotel Paris" . Stay in the heart of Paris.

14. Monte-Carlo 

Monaco

Monaco is famous for its casinos, its marina, its luxurious yachts, its gold-priced apartments where the wealthiest live. It is also so for its Royal family and its palace ranked among the most beautiful Palaces in Europe. Grace Kelly, who was a magnificent American actress, was the Princess of this Principality. She marked with her elegance and refinement this small territory halfway between France and Italy.

For many years, Monaco has followed, under the leadership of Prince Albert, a resolutely green path, focused on ecology, the protection of the oceans, the safeguarding of biodiversity. Some famous hotels in Monaco serve vegetables grown in the gardens of the Royal Family as well as honey stamped with the seal of the monarchy.

Come  to Monaco in January to enjoy the dolce vita of this Riviera, beautiful walks on the seaside, the first rays of sunshine of the year.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Nice Airport (40 min by car, 50 min by public transport, 10 min by Helicopter) and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Hôtel De Paris Monte-Carlo" located next to the Casino de Monaco

15. Luzern

Switzerland

With its bridge ranked among the most beautiful bridges in Europe, Luzern/Lucerne attracts travellers from all over the world all year round.

Imagine that this medieval bridge is the most photographed monument in Switzerland. Common in the USA, these covered bridges are rather rare in Europe. That of Luzern is also one of the longest covered bridges in Europe. This gives a romantic touch to the city. Luzern is even more romantic in January when the snow covers this bridge and the pretty houses of the historic centre.

Want to treat yourself or buy a gift for a loved one? Be sure to visit the many watchmakers and jewellers in Luzern. A luxury watch is sold there every minute.

For a less crowdy holiday at a better price book your accommodation during the first two weeks of January. From mid-January to mid-February Luzern is a little busier as Chinese travellers take advantage of their Golden Week (mid-January mid-February) to visit this destination they love. 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zurich (40 min by car or public transport) and your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Waldstätterhof Swiss Quality Hotel" 200 m from Chapel Bridge.

16. Seven Sisters National Park 

Seaford - UK

"Whatever the weather, a visit to Seven Sisters Country Park is always memorable" is the slogan of this country park renowned for its huge chalk cliffs, its unique wildlife and its many mysteries and secrets.

Seven Sisters is peaceful in January. Sheep graze on the salty grass, migratory birds fly over this preserved place where you can observe a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Easily accessible by bus from Brighton, Seven Sisters is a car-free getaway to put at the top of your January travel wishlist.

Cycling and walking trails await you as well as Kayaking & paddle boarding activities.

Book your flights to London Gatwick (30 min from Brighton that is itself 50min from Seven Sisters National Park - public transport available from Brighton).

 How to get there: Book your flights to London Gatwick Airport (30 mins by public transport/ 40 mins by car)

 Where to stay: "Brighton Harbour Hotel & Spa" is set on the lively seafront.

17. Reine

Lofoten Islands - Norway

In January, discover the Lofoten Islands. The Lofoten Islands are a dream destination for many travellers. This archipelago offers one of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe.

It owes its name "Lofoten" to its form, that of the footprint of a lynx. Get into the wild this year, leave the busy cities, treat yourself to limitless horizons.

The Lofoten Islands are the promise of real contact with nature, with the elements. Located just 200 km from the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands will surprise you. You will discover fine white sand beaches, a crystal blue sea, fishing villages out of a children's story, unforgettable landscapes.

The easiest way is to book your flights to Oslo and take a domestic flight to Bodø. From Bodø, take the ferry to Svolvær where most of the expeditions to the Lofoten Islands leave. You can also reach Bodø by train from Oslo or Tromsø.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Oslo as well as your accommodation. 

 Where to stay: "Unstad Arctic Surf" located near this legendary beach.

18. Milan

Italy

Along with Paris and London, it is one of the fashion capitals of Europe. Milan is a perfect destination for a city break in January for many reasons: hotels are up to 2 times cheaper than in December and you can take advantage of the start of the sales to buy the most luxurious brands at a better price. In winter, the sales in Milan start on January 4 and end on the last day of February.

Waste no time and book your flights to Milan, your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Milan such as a "Milan: Pasta Making and Tiramus Class".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Milan and your transfer from the Airport.

 Where to stay: "Worldhotel Casati 18" located 700 m from Milan's Central Station.

19. Hallstatt

Austria

While it can be crowdy in December and summer, attracting travellers from all over the world, Hallstatt is quieter in January once the holiday season is over. If you are lucky, the snow will cover Hallstatt and the surrounding mountains with its white coat.

This postcard village developed around an activity that began in the Neolithic period: salt mining. Many sea routes linked Hallstatt to Baltic and Mediterranean cities. These salt mines have long been the wealth of the inhabitants of Hallstatt, which partly explains the beauty of their houses.

Book your flights to Salzburg (1h by car/2h by public transport), your accommodation in Salzburg or Hallstatt and your tours and activities in Austria such as a "Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt from Salzburg". 

 How to get there: Book your flights to Salzburg (1h by car/2h by public transport).

 Where to stay: "Braügasthof Hallstatt" just 100 m from Hallstatt's Market Square.

20. Mont St Michel

Normandy - France

Breathe in the pure sea air and discover one of the most beautiful hidden gems in France in January. The island of Mont Saint-Michel is one of the best destinations to visit in January. At this time of year Mont St Michel is less busy than the rest of the year and you can more easily come across one of the  30 inhabitants of the island.

This island isolated from the mainland during high tides is accessible on foot during low tides. This strategic position and its ramparts made it impregnable during The Hundred Year's War. A UNESCO listed medieval site, Mont Saint Michel is dominated by its abbey which was for a long time transformed into a prison. If you are on a diet after the end of the year celebrations, be careful, Mont-Saint-Michel and all of Normandy, are known for their pastries and biscuits rich in butter.

Gourmets will not fail to stop at the restaurant "La Mère Poulard" which serves only one dish: giant omelettes. The omelettes are beaten for hours using an ancestral technique to be airy and thus have an inimitable taste.

Book your flights to Rennes or Nantes as well as your accommodation and your activities & tours such as a "From Paris: Full-Day Mont Saint Michel Tour".

 How to get there: Book your flights to Rennes or Nantes Airport or your transfer from Paris to the Mont-Saint-Michel.

 Where to stay: "Mercure Mont Saint Michel" situated 2km from the Mont Saint Michel.

21. St Moritz

Switzerland

St Moritz is one of the best destinations to visit in January. Considered one of the most chic ski resorts in Europe, St Moritz is also ranked among the best wellness destinations in Europe and the most beautiful destinations in Switzerland. So there are only good reasons to visit St Moritz in January.

Whether you are passionate about skiing, snowboarding or if you want to be pampered in the wellness hotels of this wellness destination, St Moritz is for you. Climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage with your loved one, discover St Moritz while snowflakes fall from the sky and make this moment unforgettable. For sports, romantic, wellness holidays in January St Moritz is what you need to start the year.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zurich (2h30 by car 3h by train) or Milan Airport (3h by car – 4h by public transport).

 Where to stay: "Hotel Arte" enjoys a central location in St. Moritz.

22. Zermatt

Switzerland

Considered to be one of the most beautiful ski resorts in Europe but also one of the most luxurious ski resorts, Zermatt will appeal to skiers but also to those who love après-ski entertainment, shopping or simply the atmosphere of a chic and refined mountain village.

No matter where you stay you will probably see from your room the incredible Matterhorn also called "Mont Cervin" located on the Italian-Swiss border. This rock tooth is the symbol of Zermatt. Why stay in Zermatt in January? For guaranteed snow, for more affordable prices than in December, to start the year with a breath of fresh air.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Geneva (2h30) or Zurich (3h30) as well as your transfer.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Alpenroyal" offers panoramic Matterhorn views.

23. La Gomera 

Canary Islands - Spain

It's not the smallest, it's not the biggest of the Canary Islands, but it's certainly the most incredible one. Discover its steep mountains, its giant ferns and its trees covered with lichen which is a sign of the great purity of the air in this little corner of paradise.

Do you hear a whistle coming from the mountains? It is the language invented by the inhabitants of La Gomera to communicate over distances of up to several kilometres. This language is now taught to school children in La Gomera, an incredible little island where 22,000 inhabitants live.

If you have ever stayed in Tenerife you know the island of La Gomera  facing it. Take the boat and reach this island renowned for its volcanic sand beaches, its traditions, its Garajonay national park and its whistling inhabitants.

Book your flights to Tenerife and take the ferry to San Sebastian de La Gomera from the port of Los Cristianos. You can make the crossing by car for 30-40 euros (50 min by boat).

 How to get there: Book your flights to Tenerife and take the Ferry at Los Cristianos.

 Where to stay: "Hotel Jardin Tecina" overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.