Best European Destinations to Visit in January

Planning a winter getaway in the new year? January is one of the best months to explore Europe, with fewer crowds, lower prices and a relaxed pace across many destinations. This guide highlights the best European destinations to visit in January, explains why winter travel can be rewarding, and covers what you need to consider before booking — including weather, travel insurance and seasonal tips.

Why Visit Europe in January?

Travelling in January offers several advantages:

✔ Fewer tourists at major attractions

✔ Lower flight and hotel prices

✔ Mild winter sun in southern Europe

✔ Snowy landscapes in alpine regions

✔ Shorter queues, quieter cities

It’s an ideal month for relaxed travel — as long as you’re prepared for seasonal weather and travel disruptions.

Seville in January, a warm European city ideal for winter travel

Best European Destinations to Visit in January

🇪🇸 Seville, Spain

Seville enjoys some of the warmest winter temperatures in Europe, often reaching the high teens.

Why visit in January:

  • Comfortable sightseeing weather

  • Fewer crowds at the Alcázar and Cathedral

  • Authentic tapas culture without summer heat

👉 Covered under Europe Travel Insurance

🇵🇹 Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon combines winter sunshine, historic neighbourhoods and excellent value in January.

Highlights:

  • Mild temperatures

  • Coastal walks and viewpoints

  • Great food and wine at lower prices

🇮🇹 Rome, Italy

January is one of the best times to explore Rome without the crowds.

Why Rome in January works:

  • Shorter queues at the Colosseum and Vatican

  • Cooler temperatures for walking

  • Better hotel availability

Budapest in winter, a popular European city to visit in January

🇭🇺 Budapest, Hungary

Budapest offers a magical winter atmosphere, especially in January.

Top experiences:

  • Thermal baths in cold weather

  • Fewer tourists

  • Affordable city break prices

🇫🇷 Paris, France

Paris in January is quieter, romantic and surprisingly good value.

Perfect for:

  • Museums and galleries

  • Winter sales shopping

  • Café culture without queues

🇦🇹 Innsbruck, Austria

If you’re looking for snow, Innsbruck offers alpine scenery and winter sports.

Why visit in January:

  • Reliable snow conditions

  • Easy access to ski resorts

  • Stunning mountain views

👉 Winter Sports Cover required if skiing or snowboarding

Is January a Good Time for a European City Break?

Yes — January is ideal for city breaks if you prefer:

  • Cooler temperatures

  • Cultural sightseeing

  • Museums, galleries and historic sites

  • Better-value accommodation

👉 Single Trip Travel Insurance

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Europe in January?

Yes. Even though Europe feels close to home, unexpected issues can still occur — especially during winter.

Travel insurance for Europe can cover:

  • Medical emergencies

  • Travel delays and cancellations

  • Lost or delayed luggage

  • Missed departures

  • Personal liability

👉 Europe Travel Insurance

What About Winter Weather and Travel Disruption?

January weather can be unpredictable in parts of Europe. Snow, ice and storms can lead to:

  • Flight delays

  • Train disruption

  • Missed connections

Having travel insurance in place helps protect you financially if your plans are affected.

✔ Check destination-specific weather advice and safety updates using the UK Foreign Travel Advice before travelling.

EHIC / GHIC vs Travel Insurance

An EHIC or GHIC provides limited access to state healthcare in certain European countries — but it does not replace travel insurance.

EHIC/GHIC does not cover:

  • Repatriation to the UK

  • Private medical treatment

  • Travel disruption

  • Lost luggage

  • Cancellation

You can find official guidance on EHIC and GHIC cards on the NHS EHIC/GHIC information page.

What Travel Insurance Do I Need for Europe in January?

Single Trip Travel Insurance

Best for one-off January holidays or city breaks.

👉 Single Trip Travel Insurance

Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

If you’re planning multiple European trips this year, an annual policy may be more cost-effective.

👉 Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance

Winter Sports Cover

If your January trip includes skiing or snowboarding, this must be added to your policy.

👉 Winter Sports Cover

Pre-Existing Medical Conditions

All medical conditions must be declared — even for short European trips.

👉 Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Cover

Tips for Visiting Europe in January

✔ Pack for cooler weather

✔ Allow extra time for winter travel delays

✔ Check attraction opening hours

✔ Buy travel insurance as soon as you book

✔ Keep policy details accessible while travelling

FAQs – Visiting Europe in January

Q1: Is January a good month to visit Europe?
Yes. January offers fewer crowds, lower prices and a more relaxed pace, making it ideal for city breaks and cultural travel.

Q2: What is the warmest place in Europe in January?
Southern destinations such as Seville, Lisbon and parts of southern Spain are among the warmest places to visit in Europe in January.

Q3: Is Europe cheaper to visit in January?
Yes. Flights and accommodation are often cheaper in January compared to peak seasons, especially after the Christmas period.

Q4: Do I need travel insurance for Europe in January?
Yes. Travel insurance is recommended to cover medical emergencies, travel disruption and unexpected delays during winter travel.

Plan Your January European Getaway with Confidence

From winter sunshine in Spain to snowy alpine escapes, January is one of the best times to explore Europe — as long as you’re properly prepared.

With the right travel insurance in place, you can enjoy quieter cities, better value and unforgettable experiences.

👉 Get a Europe travel insurance quote today

Cover limits, terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read the Policy Wording carefully to ensure the cover meets your needs.