The spirit of the wanderer has always overpowered humans. Ever since the stone age, humans have left their secure abode to search for a home away from home. Over time, our existence has become more and more complicated, leaving us less time to explore. So now, we explore only occasionally and for leisure. Everyone has their favorite places on the planet which appeals to them. For a large portion of the world’s population, various haunts in Europe are too good to resist, even in the winter month of January. Europe is a fairly large continent with considerable variation in weather in different parts at the same time. While London and Edinburgh can be freezing, Prague and Budapest are a bit more hospitable. Venice and Barcelona, on the other hand, would require the least amount of adjustment. However, irrespective of the weather, Europe has enough to offer to the tourists of any age and tastes. Follow our January guide to Europe to know how the city of your preference is in the first month of the year.
10 Best Places to Go in Europe in January
A mixbag of 10 places that cover the warm and cold parts of Europe, our list of the 10 Best Places to Visit in Europe in January is just what you need to satisfy your January wanderlust. Keep your passports handy as you'll need them real soon!
Rome, Italy
Average High: 12°C | Average Low: 3°C
Rome in January is a great time to visit the Eternal City. The temperatures are cool and the days are sunny, making it a perfect time of year for sightseeing. January is also the start of Rome’s cultural season, with ancient ruins and monuments coming alive as art galleries open their doors and musical performances take place in the city’s piazzas and plazas. With many outdoor attractions to explore, January makes for a perfect time to visit Rome and experience the beauty of this historic city.
Read More About Rome In January
Rome Itineraries | Rome On A Budget | Rome Travel Guide | Rome Food Tours | Best Guided Tours In Rome | Piazza Navona | Where to Stay in Rome
Top Recommended Experiences in Rome
Paris, France
Average High: 8°C | Average Low: 3°C
Despite the chilly temperatures, Paris in January is still buzzing with energy and activity. Visitors can explore world-famous attractions such as the Louvre museum or the Eiffel Tower while admiring Parisian architecture along their way. The French capital also offers plenty of charming cafés and eateries to warm up in on a cold winter’s day. January is an ideal time to take romantic strolls along the Seine and absorb the beauty of Paris as it comes alive with winter decorations. It's truly a beautiful time of year to visit this magnificent city.
Read More About Paris In January
Paris Itineraries | Paris Travel Guide | Paris on a Budget | Seine Dinner Cruises | Paris Deals & Offers | Paris City Passes | Best Paris Cabarets
Top Recommended Experiences in Paris
Budapest, Hungary
Average High: 3°C | Average Low: -2°C
Budapest is the capital of Hungary. It is located in central Europe. January is one of the coldest months in Budapest. While there is a lot to love in Budapest in January, the weather is not one of them. As such, there aren’t many tourists that frequent the city this month. This should prove to be a blessing in disguise for you. You will be able to secure attractive discounts on hotel and flight rates in addition to having the city free of the tourist crowd. Budapest has an upper hand over other European cities in January as it has a number of natural thermal baths that could take the sting out of the weather. Ice skating at the City Park Ice Rink is another activity to look forward to in January. Do not forget to indulge in the rich Hungarian local cuisine that would suit the weather well.
Read More About Budapest In January
Budapest Itineraries | Best Day Trips from Budapest | Battle of the Budapest Baths | Budapest River Cruises | Best Time To Visit Budapest
Top Recommended Experiences in Budapest
Zurich, Switzerland
Average High: 4°C | Average Low: -1°C
Zurich in January is a beautiful time of year for those looking for a peaceful winter holiday. With its snow-covered streets and frozen lakes, the Swiss city exudes an air of serenity that can be enjoyed from the cozy confines of outdoor cafes or from the observation decks at local mountains. Visitors may also take advantage of Zurich’s many cultural attractions, such as the world-renowned opera house or old churches filled with art and history. January is an ideal time to explore all Zurich has to offer while snuggling up in warm winter clothing and enjoying the crisp air of this beautiful city.
Top Recommended Experiences in Zurich
Vienna, Austria
Average High: 3°C | Average Low: -2°C
Vienna in January is great for those looking to explore the city’s rich culture and history. The city's many museums and galleries, including the world-famous Kunsthistorisches Museum, come alive with winter exhibits and special performances. Visitors may also take advantage of Vienna’s beautiful parks, which are blanketed in fresh white snow and provide a perfect opportunity to take in the city’s stunning architecture. It is also a great time of year to sample some traditional Viennese cuisine, such as Goulash or Schnitzel. January is an ideal time for those who wish to explore Vienna in all its winter glory. It'll be cold, so make sure to pack your winter wear!
Top Recommended Experiences in Vienna
London, United Kingdom
Average High: 9°C | Average Low: 4°C
London is one of the premier tourist destinations in Europe. It has cultural diversity, heritage, and the chic sophistication that is desirable in every top metropolis. Such is its popularity among tourists that London never sees a month devoid of the tourist crowd. Even in January, there seems to be a steady flow of visitors. However, since it is low season in January, you should be able to find the accommodation of your choice at a cheaper rate. January sees a little less crowd at popular spots like the London Eye. After the conclusion of the holiday season, Londoners take a step back and enjoy a quiet month. This could be your chance to explore the city and its wonderful architecture. You will also be able to enjoy events like the London Short Film Festival and Hogwarts in Snow.
Read More About London In January
London Itineraries | London Airport Transfers | River Thames Cruises | London Travel Guide | Hampton Court Palace | London Palace Pass | The Shard
Top Recommended Experiences in London
Prague, Czech Republic
Average High: 3°C | Average Low: -1°C
Prague in January is a great time to visit the city’s many historical monuments and attractions. The temperatures are usually quite mild, making it easy to explore the cobblestone streets and quaint cafes without feeling too hot or cold. Prague's main sites are particularly beautiful at this time of year, with snow adding an extra layer of charm to the city’s picturesque architecture. January is also a great time to enjoy traditional Czech food and beer, as well as experience some of the city's vibrant cultural celebrations that take place in winter. It truly is an ideal time for those looking to explore Prague’s many wonders.
Read More About Prague In January
Prague Travel Guide | Prague Trip Planner | Prague Castle | One Day Prague Itinerary | Prague Astronomical Clock
Top Recommended Experiences in Vienna
Madrid, Spain
Average High: 10°C | Average Low: 1°C
Madrid is the Spanish administrative capital, which makes it one of the most important cities in the world. The city also has enough attractions to lure millions of tourists every year. Madrid has a harsh winter, but the city is located at an altitude, which helps it receive bright sunlight and clear skies throughout January. So once you are in Madrid, you will see the locals out and about. January is a great time to explore the parks of Madrid, especially Retiro Park. You should also try some winter specialty food items while you are in the city, including Cocido Madrileño and churros. If you have some spare time, head outside the city to enjoy some winter sports like snowboarding and skiing.
Read More About Madrid in January
One Day in Madrid | Madrid to Segovia | Madrid to Toledo | Santiago Bernabeu Tour | Reina Sofia Museum | Prado Museum | Madrid Trip Planner
Top Recommended Experiences in Madrid
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Average High: 6°C | Average Low: 1°C
Amsterdam in January is a great opportunity to explore the city’s many museums and attractions, as well as enjoy its unique winter charms. The canals are especially beautiful in winter, with cobbled streets and snow-dusted houses providing a picturesque landscape for visitors. Ice skating on Amsterdam’s frozen canals is a popular winter activity, as well as a great way to take in the city’s unique atmosphere. It is also a great time of year to sample some traditional Dutch cuisine and marvel at Amsterdam's centuries-old architecture that truly come alive in the cooler months. January is an ideal time for vibrant winter exploration of Amsterdam.
Read More About Amsterdam in January
Amsterdam Itineraries | Amsterdam Travel Guide | 24 Hours in Amsterdam | Free Things to do in Amsterdam | Amsterdam Travel Tips
Top Recommended Experiences in Amsterdam
Santorini, Greece
Average High: 14°C | Average Low: 9°C
Santorini in January is a great time to visit the island’s many picturesque villages and attractions. The mild temperatures make it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the historical sites, wineries, and beaches that the island has to offer. Many locals also celebrate the warm winter months by gathering around bonfires on the beach and enjoying traditional Greek music. January is also a great time to sample some of the island’s delicious cuisine, such as moussaka, grilled fish, and fresh seafood. Santorini in January is an ideal time for those who wish to enjoy the beauty of winter while taking advantage of all that the island has to offer.
Top Recommended Experiences in Santorini
Europe Through The Year
