Warmest Places in Europe in January: 11 Stylish Spots for Winter Sun!

Last updated on November 24th, 2025 at 11:06 pm

If you are looking for the warmest places in Europe in January, I’ve got you covered – there are still gorgeous pockets of sunshine in many spots in Europe! I’m sharing the 11 warmest and most stylish in this winter sun guide!

January is the perfect month to escape the UK winter in search of blue skies, pretty heritage towns, Mediterranean lunches and that soft winter sunlight! Let me tell you, these stylish destinations, from the orange squares of Seville to the shores of Sicily, offer the perfect warm-weather respite!

After years of winter travel around Europe, especially in southern Spain, I have honed my January winter-sun holidays in Europe and hand-picked the warmest and most beautiful places boasting lovely scenery, charm and fantastic hotels that I’d happily return to!

So if you’d like to follow my lead and escape to somewhere close by and warm, straight after the busy festive period, this guide to the warmest places in Europe in January is for you!!

Why Visit the Warmest Places in Europe in January?

Finding those warmer places in Europe in January, the dreariest month of the year, is one of my favourite things to do, and what’s more perfect than a quick short-haul flight?

I’ve taken five-star city breaks, enjoyed relaxed beach resorts around Marbella, discovered beautiful scenery without the crowds, and the best thing is, I’ve saved a ton of money while doing so!

January is the month for incredible off-season rates, availability, crowd-free attractions and spa-hotels – honestly, you can really spoil yourself in January!

If you’re lucky, you might catch a few sunbathing days – to be realistic, the weather won’t be ‘bikini hot’ (unless you’re in the Canaries), but you can certainly ditch the woolly jumpers and coats!

Where is the warmest place in Europe in January?

The warmest place in Europe in January is the Canary Islands, Spain, where the landscape is desert-like and daily temperatures average 18–22°C, perfect sunbathing weather and not too hot for exploring!

Southern Spain is also a great spot for warm weather and sunny skies; Marbella is one of the best places to visit in January in Europe! And my favourite – we’ll get on to that!

WARMEST PLACES IN EUROPE IN JANUARY: 11 STYLISH SPOTS!

If you’re ready to swap grey skies for sunshine and sea views this January, I’ve hand-picked the 11 best stylish European winter sun destinations for you – the top places I’ve been to for beauty and a little luxury!

1. SEVILLE, SPAIN

Average Temps: 16–19°C

Seville is one of the most beautiful warm winter city breaks in Europe, and January is such a great time to visit. With temperatures hovering around 16–19°C, sunny afternoons, and that Spanish golden glow through the orange-tree-lined streets, the city feels warm and colourful!

January is perfect for slow sightseeing – wandering through the Alcazar Palace Gardens, exploring the winding lanes of Santa Cruz, enjoying tapas in charming squares and soaking up the rooftop views. It’s definitely one of Europe’s more romantic January destinations!

You’ll find bright blue skies most days, warmth in the sun, and the kind of atmosphere that makes a winter escape feel instantly worth it – book a flamenco show for extra evening vibes, it’s one of the best things to do in Seville!

For stylish stays, Seville is full of characterful boutique hotels, rooftop terraces and elegant Andalusian courtyards. If you’re planning a trip, have a look at my guide to the Top Boutique Hotels in Seville – January is the time to treat yourself to a hotel with a Cathedral view in the pretty old town!

Where To Stay

For the best January sunshine and rooftop views, stay near Santa Cruz. This location is filled with boutique hotels, beautiful Andalusian courtyards, and charming terraces perfect for slow morning coffees!

Seville does boutique luxury so well – I love the chic interiors, warm colours, and rooftop bars overlooking the cathedral – I’ve previously stayed in the lovely Casa del Poeta and highly recommend! For ALL my favourites, take a peek at my Top Boutique Hotels in Seville guide!

Dreaming of Seville? Read my ultimate guide to Seville and guide to the top boutique hotels in Seville!

2. LANZAROTE, CANARY ISLANDS

Average Temps: 19–22°C

Lanzarote is one of the hottest places in Europe in January, and honestly, it’s a dream if you love stylish hotels, striking landscapes and proper winter sun! With temperatures around 19–21°C, you can expect warm, bright days perfect for sun lounging or exploring volcanic beaches, dramatic coastlines and the island’s famous otherworldly scenery.

January is the ideal time to wander through Timanfaya National Park and discover the beautiful black-sand coves and breathtaking scenery – Lanzarote is so underrated! Personally, I love the coastline’s striking volcanic colours against the bright turquoise sea; it is made for road tripping!

Lanzarote has a unique, minimalist beauty – whitewashed villages, dark lava fields, cactus gardens, and the incredible winter sunsets that photographers absolutely go crazy for! It feels peaceful, warm and totally special at this time of year.

If you’re looking for a stylish stay, the boutique scene here is fantastic; you can enjoy turquoise blue oceanfront lunches or relax by the pool surrounded by volcanic landscape. If I were to treat myself to a hideaway, I would be booking the gorgeous Cesar Luxury Boutique Hotel!

Where To Stay

For a luxury escape, César Luxury Boutique Hotel is a standout – think serene suites, calming neutral tones, volcanic views and a design-forward atmosphere that fits perfectly with Lanzarote’s artistic vibe.

(Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise also offer beautiful boutique resorts, oceanfront pools, and easy access to coastal walks and incredible sunsets, check out the options here.)

Lanzarote is perfect for travellers who want adventure, warm weather and contemporary boutique style all in one winter-sun escape!

3. MARBELLA, SPAIN

Average Temps: 19–21°C

Marbella is one of the sunniest places in Europe in winter, and January is such a gorgeous time to enjoy it! I visited stylish Marbella in the second week of January and stayed until February, it was completely fantastic!

With daily temperatures of 19–21°C, bright blue skies and beautiful Mediterranean mornings, it feels more like Spring. You can walk around in shirts and sit at the beachfront restaurants, basking in the sunshine – see below at Puente Romano for reference!

January feels peaceful here compared to the hectic summer months – think strolling along the palm-lined promenade, relaxed golden beaches, cosy brunch spots in the Old Town and leisurely afternoons along the Golden Mile’s seafront – the prettiest spot in Southern Spain!

Some of the larger beach clubs will be closed, but there are still plenty of things to do in Marbella, from boat tours (dolphin spotting) to hiking and visiting the attractive white washed towns of Puerto Banus and Marbella (and beyond if you have a car).

If you’re after a winter-sun break that combines sunshine, coastal scenery and a touch of luxury, Marbella wins every time, trust me, 2026 will be my third January stay!

Where To Stay

For the best winter-sun base, stay close to the Old Town, Golden Mile, or Puerto Banús, where you’ll find stylish boutique hotels, elegant beachfront suites and peaceful resorts with gorgeous Mediterranean views.

Marbella does luxury exceptionally well – from chic adults-only retreats to beautifully renovated Andalusian-style properties perfect for a romantic winter escape, my top pick is Marbella Beach Club!

If you’re planning a visit, don’t miss my guide to Things to Do in Marbella or where to stay in Marbella for even more sun-soaked inspiration or the best hotels and areas.

4. MADERIA, PORTUGAL

Average Temps: 18–20°C

Madeira is easily one of the warmest places in Europe in January and such a perfect option if you’re into dramatic landscapes and a little adventure, this small island is often called the “Hawaii of Europe” for a reason!

With temperatures averaging 18–20°C, the island still feels warm even in mid-winter – perfect for exploring Madeira’s famous Levada Trails, lush forests, waterfalls, swimming rock pools and some really spectacular viewpoints!

Lovely Funchal is a gorgeous place to stay, only a short distance to the best attractions and equally attractive at this time of year, with colourful gardens, cosy cafés and oceanfront promenades. Don’t miss the scenic cable car ride, which takes you to the top of the town!

Madeira offers a beautiful balance of relaxation, warm Portuguese culture and adventure, which makes the island a true winter-sun favourite. Just be sure to include a few relaxed lunches overlooking the Atlantic, there are some incredible spots around the island!

Where To Stay

For the ultimate winter sun experience, base yourself in Funchal, where you’ll find beautiful boutique hotels, sea-view suites and elegant properties tucked into tropical gardens – retreats and luxury hideaways!

My top pick is Quinta Da Casa Branca, set within a lovely landscape!

5. VALLETTA, MALTA

Average Temps: 15–18°C

Malta is one of the warmest places in Europe in January, and its capital, Valletta, is the perfect base for a sunny winter city break, where the temperature hardly ever drops below 16°C!

Valletta is a fascinating place with honey coloured buildings and charming historic lanes perfect for wandering and discovering gems like St John’s Cathedral – a Baroque masterpiece, the waterfront viewpoints and colourful balconies!

January is ideal for enjoying the city’s vibrant café culture without the summer crowds, visiting the Upper Barrakka Gardens and taking scenic boat trips across the Grand Harbour. Don’t miss the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon for incredible views – in January it’s much more peaceful and better for photo opportunities!

Valletta feels warm, charming and wonderfully Mediterranean at a time when most of Europe is still freezing!

Where To Stay

Valletta is full of elegant boutique properties set inside beautifully restored townhouses. You’ll find stylish terraces, sea-view suites, chic design hotels and intimate heritage stays within walking distance of all the highlights.

My top hotel pick is Casa Elull, a central boutique hotel within a charming location – this is definitely a city where boutique lovers will be spoiled!

6. THE AZORES, PORTUGAL

Average Temps: 18–20°C

The Azores is one of the most unique and beautiful places in Portugal. The stunning location, incredible hiking trails, retreat hotel and scenery make this one of the best places to visit in Europe in January!

A true natural beauty, the Azores are made up of tiny, enchanting islands that offer bags of nature and cool adventures! You can go hiking along the coast, biking, take part in water sports and simply explore the beautiful coastline with striking black beaches and cascading waterfalls!

(Did I mention you can go whale watching here?)

If you stayed at White Exclusive Suites and Villas, you probably wouldn’t want to leave. It’s a brand new property in an absolutely wonderful seafront location, I think it’s perfection! But I do recommend checking out the nearby waterfalls and rockpools!

For an extra special stay, you can combine the Azores with a trip to Madeira, hitting two great places for your European winter sun adventure!

Where To Stay

The Azores are perfect for a relaxing spa stay surrounded by nature. My top pick is the White Exclusive suites, a gorgeous, chic property with an infinity pool and luxury white aesthetics set within a stunning location!

7. LISBON, PORTUGAL

Average Temps: 15–17°C

Lisbon is one of Europe’s loveliest mild winter city breaks, and January is surprisingly warm and vibrant here. With daytime temperatures around 15–17°C, sunshine-filled afternoons and bright blue skies, it’s the perfect destination if you want a dose of culture and fabulous city views!

January in Lisbon still feels lively and there’s plenty to experience from exploring the oldest neighbourhood, Alfama to catching the infamous No28 tram that runs up to the historic 11th-century São Jorge Castle for panoramic views over the city!

Shopping is also amazing in Lisbon, Avenida da Liberdade is a must, you can get some incredible buys along this gorgeous tree-lined street peppered with luxury stores (much cheaper than the UK) and coffee stops – check out the Coffee House Experience!

Outside of the city, a day trip to Casias is a must, this pretty coastal town is surrounded by historic castles and scenic landscapes – a lovely day out!

Where To Stay

For the best winter-sun experience, stay in Chiado, Príncipe Real, or Baixa, where you’ll find stylish boutique hotels with rooftop terraces, elegant design details, and sweeping city views!

Lisbon’s boutique scene is incredible – expect modern Portuguese interiors and beautifully restored townhouses that make the perfect base for a sunny January escape.

My top pick for Lisbon is the Vintage Hotel & Spa set in a perfect location, with a great vibe and fab rooftop overlooking the city – this is where I stayed and loved it, especially the spa!

8. SICILY, ITALY

Average Temps: 14–17°C

If you’re dreaming of a warm and culture-filled winter getaway, Sicily is one of the warmest places in Europe in January and such a beautiful choice for a slow Italian break! With average daytime temperatures of 14–17°C, you can explore historic towns (in a light jacket), enjoy coastal walks, and soak up that gorgeous Mediterranean sun without the summer crowds!

January in Sicily feels calm and atmospheric – there are charming mornings in Palermo, colourful harbours, and cosy trattorias serving the best local cannoli and tasty arancini. It’s the perfect time to wander through ancient ruins, explore palaces or take a relaxed trip to Cefalù or Syracuse.

While it’s not full-on beach season, you’ll still enjoy plenty of sunny days and the kind of mild weather that’s perfect for sightseeing. In Palermo alone there are a huge eight UNESCO sights and over 200 ancient churches (don’t miss Palermo Cathedral)!

For a stylish winter sun break with a mix of food, history, and Mediterranean charm, Sicily is one of the best places to visit in January!

Where To Stay

Sicily has so many beautiful boutique stays, but for the perfect winter sun break, I recommend staying in the historic centre of Palermo for grand architecture, lively markets and chic boutique hotels.

Vossia Luxury Rooms & Sicilian Living is the perfect boutique in Palermo – this is my top pick for central location and high praise reviews!

9. PALMA, MALLORCA (Balearic Islands)

Average Temps: 16–18°C

If you’re looking for one of the most stylish warm winter city breaks in Europe, Palma is a dream. With lovely January temperatures of 16–18°C, plenty of sunshine, and that nice Mediterranean glow over the cathedral and marina, Palma feels warm, vibrant and effortlessly chic at a time when most of Europe is still deep in winter!

Mallorca is a beautiful island with lots of scenery, culture, mountainous landscapes and charming villages to explore. My favourite spots are Valldemossa, Alcudia Old Town and Santanyí, which are picturesque places to wander around for the afternoon and tranquil in January!

Palma, the island’s capital, is a great place to stay – the Jewish Quarter is particularly lovely and is home to some top boutiques like Nobis Hotel Palma, fab restaurants and wine bars! You just can’t beat sitting on an atmospheric terrace in the afternoon, sipping wine in January!

Where To Stay

For a truly stylish base, Nobis Hotel Palma is the standout choice – a beautifully restored former palace with minimalist design, soft neutral tones and a serene, luxurious atmosphere.

It’s elegant, modern and perfectly located for exploring the old town on foot. Palma also has a gorgeous mix of boutique stays and design hotels scattered around La Calatrava and Santa Catalina, but Nobis is easily one of the most luxurious winter-sun picks!

10. CYPRUS

Average Temps: 17–19°C

Cyprus is also one of the hottest places in Europe in January, which may come as a surprise, as it’s more often associated with summer holidays. But with all-year-round flights, bright sunny days and relaxed coastal scenery, Cyprus is an ideal choice!

January in Cyprus means you can see ancient amphitheatres perched on top of hills and easily explore the island’s major attractions like the Tombs of the Kings. You can also hike around Avakas Gorge and enjoy plenty of coastal walks in the clear winter light!

It’s super easy to get around, as they drive on the left, so you don’t even have to worry about hiring a car to explore the island for yourselves!

The Paphos and Coral Bay region is especially lovely this time of year. You can stay in a gorgeous hotel and spend your days strolling along the beaches, watching golden sunsets and wandering the palm-lined promenades!

Where To Stay

For a stylish winter-sun break, Cap St. George Hotel & Resort is perfect – a luxurious, contemporary resort tucked along the Coral Bay coastline with dreamy sea views, serene pools, elegant suites and a chic Mediterranean aesthetic.

It’s the perfect base for sunny mornings, spa days, and slow coastal exploring. Cap St. George brings an elevated experience that’s ideal for a January getaway!

11. BARCELONA, SPAIN

Average Temps: 15–17°C

Barcelona is one of Europe’s most vibrant mild winter destinations, and January is such a lovely time to explore it! With temperatures around 15–17°C, plenty of bright, sunny days and far fewer crowds than spring and summer, it’s the perfect city break if you want culture and things to do!

January gives Barcelona a relaxed feel – ideal for wandering through the Gothic Quarter’s narrow lanes, exploring Gaudí’s masterpieces without queues, shopping in chic El Born boutiques and enjoying long, cosy tapas lunches – you are spoilt for choice!

La Sagrada Familia is the city’s top attraction and even in January it’s still a busy place, so booking in advance is essential for quicker access!

Barcelona is incredibly photogenic, especially the Gothic Quarter, which is where I recommend staying for the ultimate experience. Miiro Borneta is my top pick; even in winter, you’ll find rooftop terraces open, outdoor dining still buzzing on sunny days!

Where To Stay

For a stylish base, Hotel Miiro Borneta is a standout – a beautifully designed boutique hotel in the heart of El Born, one of Barcelona’s coolest and most atmospheric neighbourhoods.

Expect warm contemporary interiors, soft tones, chic rooms and a relaxed luxury feel that’s perfect after a day of exploring. Its location is ideal for discovering old-town streets, artisan cafés, galleries and the waterfront, all within easy walking distance.

JANUARY WINTER EUROPEAN SUN TIPS!

Planning a January escape to Europe? Here are a few helpful tips to make the most of your winter sun getaway!

Book In Advance

If you’ve got your eye on somewhere special, book ahead to secure the best rooms (and sea views!) also there’s often better deals for long-stays (2 weeks or more)!

Looking for inspiration? Check out my guide on where to stay in Marbella and my round-up of top boutique hotels in Seville if you’re exploring more of Andalusia.

Pack Layers

Even though the days are sunny and warm until around 7pm, the evenings will be cooler – bring a light jacket or shawl to stay comfortable at rooftop bars or seaside dinners (think Spring in the UK Summer!).

Enjoy Lower Prices

Flights in January are cheap, you can grab seats for as little as €35 for Malaga and Fuerteventura, while hotels and apartments offer reasonable winter rates and discounts for longer stays!

Dining out is also surprisingly good value – especially compared to the summer months. It’s the perfect time to treat yourself to that boutique stay or spa afternoon!

Plan Your Trip (but not too much!)

January is the perfect month for exploring, when it’s not too hot! A lot of the destinations on this list offer fantastic day trips to off-the-beaten-path places like hiking in Mallorca and visiting the white-washed villages of Spain.

Planning a Spanish trip? I’ve shared what to do in Malaga and curated the best two-day itinerary for Seville to help you choose.

My Essential Europe Travel Toolkit!

Before you begin your European winter trip, I recommend downloading a few apps to help make your visit more seamless!

JANUARY WINTER SUN – FAQ

Where in Europe is Warm in January?

Typically, the south of Spain, the Algarve and the Canary Islands is warm in January in Europe. Other warm options include Cyprus and Madeira Island, where temperatures are mild.

What is the warmest country in Europe in winter?

The warmest country in Europe in winter is Spain, specifically Costa del Sol on the mainland, the Canary Islands and Mallorca. Spain is also one of the warmer places in Europe in January – the coldest month in Europe!

Where is the hottest place in January in Europe?

The hottest place in January in Europe is the Canary Islands, Spain, which have average daytime highs around 21°C to 23°C.

Where is hot in January short-haul?

From the UK, the hottest place in January with a short-haul flight is Palma, Mallorca, with a 2.5-hour flight and also Malaga, only 3 hours.

If you’re looking for more European destinations for winter sun throughout the season, check out my guide to the 7 Best Winter Sun Destinations In Europe!

Warm Places In January In Europe – Final Thoughts

So, that wraps up my guide to the warmest places in Europe in January for a stylish winter getaway!

If you’re dreaming of a little sunshine to break up the winter months, these warmest places in Europe in January are perfect for a stylish escape, my personal favourite is Marbella. There are plenty of atmosphere and things to do, it’s a gorgeous up-market place!

Whether you want a coastal getaway, a city break filled with tapas and rooftops, or a sunny island to relax, there’s a winter sun destination to suit your style!

For more inspiration, have a look at my guides to Things to Do in Marbella, Malaga travel guide, and Top Boutique Hotels in Seville – all perfect if you’re planning a warm European winter sun break.

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Plan your January winter sun in Europe escape!

Here’s my go-to list of resources for transport, accommodation, tours and more:

• Booking.com: For the best accommodation rates
• Trip Advisor: Check out the latest reviews & trips
• Omio: For train and bus reservations in Europe
• Viator: For unique day trips
• Get Your Guide: For incredible day trips
• Discover Cars: Best European car rental company

Related Posts:

• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Seville
• A Guide To The Best Boutique Hotels in Seville
• The Best Things To See & Do In Malaga
• 10 Wonderful Things To do In Marbella
• Hotel Review: Casa Mae, Lagos
• Best European Winter-Sun Destinations
• 18 Best Warm Places In December In Europe
• 9 Best Destinations To Visit In February: Dreamy Beach Escapes!

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