Europe In January: Places To Visit & Things To Do In- 2024
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Europe In January: A Complete Guide For A Trip

Europe in January experiences extremely chilly weather with occasional rainfall and varying levels of snowfall. It is the coldest month of the year with very short daylight hours. During this month the continent gets wrapped with layers of white snow looking like a scene straight out of a storybook. In April, Northern Europe experiences sub-zero temperatures and heavy rainfall and in Southern Europe, the weather is mild with infrequent rainfall.

January also marks the start of the Carnival season with endless celebrations, parties, street parades, and bonfires. In Scotland, traditional events like Burns Night are hosted in January to celebrate the works and life of poet Robert Burns. January is the cheapest time to go on a Europe trip and you can get flights and accommodations at discounted rates.

From searching for the northern lights to skiing in the mountains you can enjoy tons of activities during this month. You can enjoy snowmobile safaris and husky sledge rides at Lapland, Finland, and see the volcanic landscapes dusted with snow in Iceland. The best place to visit in Europe in January includes the Austrian Alps where you can enjoy various winter sports activities like snowboarding and skiing.
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Essential Information About Europe In January

01

Weather Conditions Of Europe In January

January is considered the coldest time of the year in Europe with heavy snowfall and occasional rainfall. In January, Northern Europe experiences freezing temperatures and short daylight hours while the weather in Central Europe is comparatively milder with very low chances of snowfall.

The temperature never dips below zero in Southern Europe and snow can be experienced only at high altitudes. If you want to escape harsh winter, head to the French Riviera and Amalfi Coast, which are the best places to go in Europe in January.

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Places To Visit In Europe In January

02

Barcelona

Barcelona is the best place to visit in Europe in January as the weather is milder than the other European destinations making outdoor exploration hassle-free. Since this is the off-season you can have an intimate experience at popular attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. You can watch the Three Kings Parade and hike up to the Serra de Collserola Natural Park.

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03

Berlin

If you’re looking for the best places in Europe, January Berlin should be your ideal choice as you can enjoy various winter sports activities and events. In January, the city hosts various events, like the Berlin Fashion Week, International Green Week, and the International Film Festival. You can explore the extensive network of skiing trails at Szklarska Por?ba and enjoy skiing, tobogganing, and snowboarding at Harz Mountains.

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04

Budapest

The list of best places to go in Europe in January would be incomplete if you didn’t visit Budapest which comes alive with festivities and events in this month. You can soak in the warm water of thermal baths such as the Gellért Thermal Bath or Zéchenyi Thermal Bath. You can also go skating in City Park and buy souvenirs from The Gozsdu Weekend Market which is organized every weekend in January.

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05

Madrid

The bearable weather in Madrid in January allows you to explore famous attractions like the Prado Museum and El Escorial without worrying about scorching heat. You can wander through the Royal Palace of Madrid and take a tour of the Santiago Bernabéu Football Stadium. Head to the streets of Madrid to see the Three Kings Parade and visit the Puerto de Navacerrada ski resort to play with snow.

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06

Florence

Florence is the best place to visit in Europe in January due to the little to no crowd, lively festivals, and discounted rates on flights and hotels. You can join in the Epiphany celebrations or enjoy a concert at the Orchestra of Toscana. Europe in January's best places to go include the Uffizi Gallery, Florence Duomo, and the Accademia Gallery.

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07

Vienna

Tourist places in Vienna are plenty in number, along with a shower of shopping centers, nightlife, and monumental history. The city is the capital of the Republic of Austria and part of Europe’s list of “Most Visited Sites”. The banks of the river Danube is where the city is located, and its location is one of the major reasons as to why the city is graced with beautiful History, and charming environment. The Habsburg Empire had its heart in the city of Vienna, and it served as a portal between the west and east parts of Europe. Vienna is very important to the culture and commerce of the Republic of Austria.

There are many visitors and tourist coming in from all over the world to witness the greatness of the city.The cosmopolitan feel Vienna gives off has refrained from letting its charm and first world vibes going away with time. The streets and roads are adorned by the cafés, and architecture dating centuries back, the fiakers or horse-drawn cabs, are a major attraction, besides the chocolates, and delicacies that come along with the city.The pastries, the concerts of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, the great artist of Classical music, the waltz presented to us by the Viennese, everything adds up to all that Vienna has given to Planet Earth, and all that it will keep giving to it.

The historical beauty of the city’s monuments, the personalities it has given to us, has offered Austria a great share in the life others. The culture the walls, and streets have carried down through generations, and centuries, the refinement of all that is pretty, the activities, all the things to do here has come together to make sure that no one visiting the city faces a lack of happiness and looking forward to the next day here.

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08

Lisbon

The capital city of Portugal, Lisbon is indeed one of the most beautiful and cosmopolitan cities of Europe. Nestled over a series of hills, Lisbon is located near the mouth of River Tagus. It is definitely a place that is inevitably linked with the sea. Plucky navigators embarked from here in the 15th and the 16th centuries to chart new lands and sail the unknown waters. The legacy of this Golden Age of Discovery defines the majority of the heritage and culture of the city.   

Lisbon is a vibrant and colorful destination. Famed for its sunny and warm disposition, the city is endowed with a wealth of world-class museums, historic monuments and a host of other interesting places to see.

You can explore the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, take a stroll on the riverbank promenade or wander through the verdant gardens and parks. In fact, to make the most of your holiday in Lisbon, you ought to enjoy it just like the locals do. If done right, you’ll quickly fall for the beguiling charm and the welcoming character of the city. So, pack your bags and let yourself unwind and relax in the comforting atmosphere of Lisbon.


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09

London

London city is a memoir of cobbled streets and hidden gems, and you’re bound to unravel a new side of it every time you’re over here. It is located in the Southeastern area of Great Britain and has something for everyone, from history and culture to fine food and good times. London is packed with conventional tourist spots, and the best way to explore the city is to discover the lesser-known nooks and crannies. The capital is known for its world-class cuisines, fashion statement, and superb shopping. 

There are various art galleries in London that have preserved the rich culture and history of this city. From museums to aquariums to giant shopping centers to world-class hotels and restaurants, you’ll find everything in London to keep you on your toes. London tourism has significantly increased in recent times because of the new avenues it has added in its already diverse historical and cultural scene. you can feel like being in the royal era by visiting Buckingham Palace, and you can recreate the scenes of your favorite movies at Warner Bros studio

London also offers tons of enthralling activities like strolling through the garden, watching shows at performing art venues and pedaling the fastest cycle track at Queen Elizabeth Park. You can also take a boat ride down the Thames River and you can try white water rafting at the Olympic course. In London the winters are very cold, windy and long while the summers are partly cloudy, comfortable and short. The daily lows range between 6 degrees to 13 degrees Celsius and the daily highs range between 12 degrees to 18 degrees Celsius. The overall weather here is generally temperate marine which means not higher than 32 degrees Celsius in summers and not less than 0 degrees Celsius in winters.

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10

Rome

Mentioned in the world’s most iconic places, Rome is an epitome of beauty and history. Apart from being the capital city of Italy, the city also remains as a memorial to the creative imagination of architecture. Due to the 3000 year old ad hoc urban development, the historic centre of Rome is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Situated on the central portion of the Italian peninsula, on the Tiber River about 24 km from the Tyrrhenian Sea. Rome is made up of warm colours and historic architectural styles.

The beauty of this place resides significantly in the churches. There are approximately nine hundred churches, from the Paleochristian and Medieval period to the Gothic, from the Renaissance to the Baroque up until the Modern. Or, you can admire Rome’s beauty during the sunrise and the sunset. The colours become warmer and the city lights start to shine. A city filled with icons of antiquity and the Christian faith, it’s hard to know where to go first. Rome is divided into several districts with its centre, the Colosseo district, including the most ancient attractions like the Colosseum, Capitoline Hill, and the Roman Forum.

On the outskirts of the centre is Old Rome, featuring the Pantheon, majestic cathedrals, plazas, and Renaissance architecture. There are plenty of activities to do in Rome. For unique cultural experiences, you can visit the Trevi fountain and follow their tradition by tossing a coin into it. Or, you can shop for handicrafts and haute couture from the local market. Also, if you are an art fanatic, you can visit archaeological sites, Baroque churches, villas-turned-museums, for a wonderful experience. Moreover, you can hike up Mount Vesuvius and explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Pompeii.

Rome has a Mediterranean climate. Temperatures can stay around 30 degrees in the daytime, but the nights are usually cooler and more comfortable.  In the spring season, Rome has warm weather and summers can be hot and humid. Temperatures in July and August can easily exceed 32 degrees Celsius. Additionally, winter is a really good time to visit. If you want to save money on accommodation, and site tourist attractions without the long lines then plan your vacation in winter.

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11

Iceland

The feisty volcanoes, spurty geysers, steaming hillocks and lonely lava plains in itself sounds like an unforgettable adventure. Add to it the ethereal Northern lights, gleaming glacial caves, majestic whales, and warm soothing geothermal waters. Offering the best tourist places in Iceland, it is a stunning display of nature’s incredible beauty.

From the fantastic aurora borealis or northern lights, active volcanoes, waterfalls, volcanic craters and geysers at The Golden Circle to the unparalleled seafood, beautiful ice caves and world’s best hot springs, Who says there is nothing but ice in Iceland?

Where else can you trek majestic ice caves, tour about an active volcano on a helicopter, witness northern lights from the luxury of your hotel, and swim in the most epic swimming pools in the world than Iceland?

The unusual yet tasty Hákarl - Shark and Svið - Sheep's head, calls food junkies for an unprecedented meal. Be it shopping for souvenirs, Icelandic art or fashion clothes at Geysir, or wool sweaters and warm clothes at Kolaportid Flea Market,  Iceland has something for everyone. And the unusual landscapes of Iceland has no dearth of adventures. How about exploring the countryside on Icelandic horses, witnessing the iconic Gullfoss Waterfall, playing with puffins at the old harbour in Reykjavik, diving the silfra fissure, or simply relaxing in the mineral rich waters of the Blue Lagoon? Iceland has something for everyone.

And although Iceland looks otherworldly, the friendly locals make it up for the puffin burgers and fermented shark. Also, the roads of Iceland are gloriously crowd free. A true haven if you are considering a crowd free holiday destination unlike other European Countries. It should be in your bucket list to explore the
best tourist places in Iceland.

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12

Edinburgh

The breathtaking capital of Scotland, Edinburgh comprises two distinct sections, a medieval Old Town and a Georgian New Town. It is located in the southeastern part of Scotland in Lothian on the south bank of the Firth of Forth, a estuary that opens up into the North Sea.

The city is known for its gorgeous beauty with not only immense natural splendor but also stunning architecture, majestic castles, and miles of meandering streets. The spectacular and diverse landscape of the city makes it a must visit especially as you can witness a gradual transformation from the volcanic Pentland Hills in the south to the beaches of Portobello in the East.

Edinburgh has several attractions in the historic Old Town including the Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile. You can also go on a sightseeing tour to the New Town where you can explore the exquisite shops and restaurants or even climb up to the Arthur’s Seat for some of the most breathtaking views.

There are various other interesting activities that you can engage in such as exploring the Edinburgh Castle, visiting the National Museum of Scotland, strolling through Holyrood Park, discovering the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions, and much more.

Like most other parts of the country, Edinburgh has a temperate maritime climate with its summers very mild but winters cold and humid. It rains here all through the year and the average temperature is around 8.8°C.

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13

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a historic city in Croatia closer to the Adriatic Sea. There are well preserved buildings on this city built in baroque and Gothic style. Many historic buildings and converted into historic museums now. This is a walled city and has many tourist resorts. This is also a sea port and has lesser population. This city has seen its development during 15th and 16th century. This is a city with scenic spots and landscapes. You can visit this city for its architectural beauty, splendid churches, monasteries, fountains, and museums. There are many places to visit and things to do in this old city.

There are beautiful valleys, towns, islands, peninsula, and other neighbouring towns that can be visited. You can take bus as a local transportation. You can also take ferry and boats rides and go sightseeing nearby places. In this city you can take many of the “Game of Thrones” walking tours. There are nearby islands where many movies have been filmed. You can visit beaches, take boating trips, attend local festivals, and enjoy tasting the local cuisine. This place also offers bars, lounges, and clubs for a swish nightlife. The locals are friendly. This city is safe, but you must follow the local customs to stay safe.

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Things To Do In Europe In January

14

Experience Northern Lights In Finland

January is the best time to see the northern lights in Finland as the sky is dark and the nights are long, maximizing your chances of watching the aurora borealis. You can head to remote locations like Kemi and Utsjoki which are away from pollution making them prime spots for viewing the northern lights. At the Arctic Treehouse Hotel in Rovaniemi, you can book a treehouse suit and watch the aurora display from your bedroom.

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15

Explore The Magical City Of Prague

Despite the cold weather, January is the best time to explore the city of Prague as it exudes a cosy atmosphere and is not very crowded. You can walk the Charles Bridge taking in the panoramic views of the Prague Castle and Vltava River. After the sightseeing tour, you can warm up with hot chocolate at the cosy cafes and restaurants.

Do Read: Europe In Winter
16

Discover Beautiful Streets Of Paris

January is the best time to discover the romantic ambience of Paris as the cafes and restaurants offer intimate settings for quiet conversations. Couples can cruise along the Seine River, enjoy a cabaret show, and climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower to enjoy the splendid views of Paris. Wander through Luxembourg Gardens and see the snow-dusted pathways and trees.

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17

Enjoy Winter Sports In Switzerland

Switzerland is the best place in Europe in January to enjoy winter sports activities like tobogganing or snowshoeing. Andermatt and Zermatt are absolute paradise for skiers as they have hundreds of skiing slopes. You can head to Switzerland's alpine villages like Grindelwald and Wengen to enjoy snowboarding and sledging.

Do Read: Europe In November
18

Immerse Yourself In Amsterdam's Culture

Appreciate the vibrant arts scene of Amsterdam as you explore the world-class galleries and museums that remain less crowded in January. You can visit the best place in Europe in January like the Rijksmuseum which offers an insight into Dutch heritage and history. Attend the Amsterdam Light Festival wherein the city’s famous canals are lit up by an array of light-art exhibitions.

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People Also Ask About Switzerland

  1. How much does it cost to visit Europe in January?

    An average seven-day vacation in Europe in January will cost you around $1,600 (INR 133,392.64) including flight, meals, accommodation, and transportation. The average Accommodation cost will be around $355 (INR 29,596.49) average flight cost will be $650( INR 54,190.76) and you will spend $378 (31,514.01) on drinks, food, and activities. For transportation, you will have to pay around $217 (INR 18,091.38).
  2. Is January a good time to visit Europe?

    Yes, January is a good time to visit Europe as the continent gets blanketed in layers of snow and the crowd is small at most of the attractions. Europe in January comes alive with festivities and events and you get to enjoy various winter sports activities like snowboarding, snowshoeing, and sledging. Since this is the off-season you can get a great discount on accommodation and flight making your trip budget-friendly.
  3. Where is the best place to go in Europe in January?

    The best place to go in Europe in January will depend on the kind of experience you want to have. If you want to enjoy winter sports activities you can head to Switzerland and you can visit Norway if you want to watch the northern lights. Prague, the Czech Republic, and Paris are the best places in Europe in January to absorb their fairytale-like ambience.
Newly Added Switzerland Experience

Switzerland Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Switzerland
23 January 2020
Excellent
The Mount Titlis Day Tour with Cable Car was a delightful experience for me. I was traveling with my spouse. The views were gorgeous and something that I can never forget about, it was dramatically gorgeous. If you are visiting Switzerland then Mount Titlis cable car ride is a great way to spend some time in the arms of nature and enjoy a great time. I was also able to capture some really good photos of the cute little snow penguins.
10 February 2020
Excellent
The fully rotating cable car experience topped with interacting with the snow penguins makes for a really fun time to enjoy. I recommend everyone should once visit the Mount Titlis and do the Cable Car ride. And I must say that the view from the cable car was amazing.
04 November 2019
Excellent
It was great to spend such a great evening enjoying a ton of fun activities. I had a lot fun sledding and I must say that the fondue dinner was delicious. Fun and food, a great way to spend a night indeed.
10 December 2019
Anilaabh Bharadwaj Night Sledding Interlaken
Excellent
The dinner was on point, the activities were really fun and I along with my kids had a lot of fun exploring the night night sledding experience. If you are in interlaken you have to take one night out and enjoy this thrilling adventure with your family or your friends. The drinks served were also delicious.
19 September 2019
Excellent
The best fun I had at night in Switzerland was with sulwald Sledding experience at Interlaken. The activities are really organized and the guide gives thorough instruction about the details of the night. I must say that these instructions can get really boring but the guide found a way to make it really fun. I and my partner I was able to get into the action really fast with Sledging which followed dinner. All in all, I must thank Thrillophilia for making our night adventurous.
24 October 2019
Excellent
Chamonix Mont Blanc Day Tour was an amazing experience. We could visit a number of tourist attractions and sight the mesmerizing views of the white mountains. A delightful and fun filled tour indeed. Thanks to the team Thrillophilia and our guide for making it happen.
13 November 2019
Superb
The overall service was satisfactory and very cost effective at the same time.
05 October 2019
Girindra Pillai Zurich Airport Transfers
Excellent
The experience of being received at the Zurich Airport was very smooth. The car had arrived at the location on time and we had a very comfortable ride.
10 February 2020
Excellent
The place is perfect for half a day trip. It takes around 5 hours to completely enjoy every part of the museum and it is the place worth visiting. Everything about the museum is great, I mean the first thought in my head when I heard the museum was boring but the Swiss Museum Of Transport is completely opposite. There are a ton of fun activities to do and cars to admire.
28 August 2019
Superb
We took a ton of pictures and explored a number of ancient and modern transportation vehicles. Overall, a fun place to visit.

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