Warm weather in january in europe: Page Not Found at Current Results

Surface air temperature for January 2020

cross
close

image/svg+xmlEuropean Commission

Copernicus | Europe’s eyes on Earth

IMPLEMENTED BY ECMWF

Last month the global temperature was warmer than any previous January in this data record, although almost on par with January 2016 (at 0.03°C warmer). For Europe, it was the warmest January on record, about 0.2ºC warmer than the previous warmest January in 2007, and 3.1°C warmer than the average January in the period 1981-2010. Average temperatures were especially high over large parts of northeastern Europe, in some areas more than 6°C above the 1981-2010 January average.

January 2020

Surface air temperature anomaly for January 2020 relative to the January average for the period 1981-2010. Data source: ERA5. Credit: Copernicus Climate Change Service/ECMWF. 
DOWNLOAD THE ORIGINAL IMAGE

Temperatures in January 2020 were above the 1981-2010 average over most of Europe. They were exceptionally high for the time of year in the north and east, in a band spreading eastward and south-eastward from Norway to Russia, with values more than 6ºC above average in many places. Norway experienced its warmest January day on record early in the month, and the month was the second warmest since 1900 for the country as a whole. Skiers and reindeer herders were among those affected by mild conditions in Sweden.  Observing stations in central and southern Finland recorded their warmest January in the period since at least 1961. 

Temperatures were on average a little below normal over the Carpathian Basin and in several parts of southern Europe. Rather unusually for recent years, they were also below normal over parts of the Svalbard archipelago and over the Barents Sea to the east, where sea-ice extent  was close to its 1981-2010 average. Warm than average temperatures east of Greenland extending to the north-west of Svalbard coincide with below-average sea-ice cover there.

Exceptional above-average temperatures were not confined to Europe, but extended over almost all of Russia. Temperatures were also much above average over most of the USA and eastern Canada, over Japan and parts of eastern China and Southeast Asia, over the state of New South Wales in Australia and over parts of Antarctica.

Temperatures were substantially below average over Alaska and north-western Canada, and over Baffin and Ellesmere Islands in north-eastern Canada. It was also colder than average, but to a lesser degree, over several other regions.

Although regions of below-average temperature occurred over all major oceans, particularly in the southern hemisphere, air temperatures over sea were predominantly higher than the 1981-2010 average. Global means of the marine air temperature and underlying sea surface temperature were both close to the respective peak values that occurred at the time of the 2015/16 El Niño.
 

Monthly global-mean and European-mean surface air temperature anomalies relative to 1981-2010, from January 1979 to January 2020. The darker coloured bars denote the January values. Data source: ERA5. Credit: Copernicus Climate Change Service/ECMWF.
ACCESS TO DATA  |  DOWNLOAD THE ORIGINAL IMAGE

Global temperatures were substantially above average in January 2020. The month was:

• 0.77°C warmer than the average January from 1981-2010, becoming by a narrow margin the warmest January in this data record;
• warmer by 0.03°C than January 2016, which was previously the warmest January;
• close to 0.2°C warmer than January 2017, which is now the third warmest January;
• exceeded in anomalous warmth only by February and March 2016.

European-average temperature anomalies are generally larger and more variable than global anomalies, especially in winter, when they can change by several degrees from one month to the next. The European-average temperature for January 2020 was particularly high. The month was:

• 3.1°C warmer than the average January in the period 1981-2010;
• warmer than any other January in this data record, by about 0. 2ºC in the case of January 2007, the previous warmest January.
   

The last 12 months – February 2019 to January 2020

Surface air temperature anomaly for February 2019 to January 2020 relative to the average for 1981-2010. Data source: ERA5. Credit: Copernicus Climate Change Service/ECMWF.
DOWNLOAD THE ORIGINAL IMAGE

Temperatures averaged over the twelve-month period from February 2019 to January 2020 were:

• well above the 1981-2010 average over and near Alaska, over the far northeast of Canada, and over central parts of northern Siberia;
• above average over almost all of Europe, more so in the east;
• also much above average over southern Africa, Australia and some parts of the Antarctic;
• above average over most other areas of land and ocean;
• below average over some land and oceanic areas, most notably over a central part of North America.

Running twelve-month averages of global-mean and European-mean surface air temperature anomalies relative to 1981-2010, based on monthly values from January 1979 to January 2020. The darker coloured bars are the averages for each of the calendar years from 1979 to 2019. Data source: ERA5. Credit: Copernicus Climate Change Service/ECMWF.
ACCESS TO DATA  |  DOWNLOAD THE ORIGINAL IMAGE

Averaging over twelve-month periods smooths out shorter-term variations in regional- and global-average temperatures. Globally, the twelve-month period from February 2019 to January 2020 was 0.62°C warmer than the 1981-2010 average. The warmest twelve-month period was from October 2015 to September 2016, with a temperature 0.66°C above average. 2016 is the warmest calendar year on record, with a global temperature 0.63°C above that for 1981-2010. 2019 is the second warmest calendar year in this data record, with a temperature 0.59°C above average.

0.63°C should be added to these values to relate recent global temperatures to the pre-industrial level defined in the IPCC Special Report on “Global Warming of 1.5°C”. The average temperature for the twelve months to January 2020 is around 1. 25°C above the level. The average for January 2020 alone is about 1.4°C above the level. The only month whose average temperature reached more than 1.5°C above the level is February 2016.

The spread in the global averages from various temperature datasets has been relatively large over the past three years. During this period the twelve-month-average temperatures, relative to 1981-2010, presented here are higher than those from five other datasets, by between 0.03°C and 0.14°C, with median 0.06°C, for the year 2019. This is due partly to differences in the extent to which datasets represent the relatively warm conditions that have predominated over the Arctic and the seas around Antarctica. Differences in estimates both of sea-surface temperature elsewhere and of temperatures over land outside the Arctic have been further factors. There is nevertheless general agreement between the datasets regarding:

• the exceptional warmth of 2016, and the warmth also of 2015, 2017, 2018 and especially 2019;
• the general increase in global temperature at an average rate close to 0. 2°C per decade since the late 1970s;
• the sustained period of above-average temperatures from 2002 onwards.

There is more variability in average European temperatures, but values are less uncertain because observational coverage of the continent is relatively dense. Twelve-month averages for Europe were at a high level from 2014 to 2016. They then fell, but remained 0.5°C or more above the 1981-2010 average. Twelve-month averages have subsequently risen again. The latest average, to January 2020, is more than 1.5°C above the 1981-2010 norm, marginally higher than that of the warmest such period previously on record, from April 2018 to March 2019. 2019 was the warmest calendar year on record for Europe as a whole.

The average surface air temperature analysis homepage explains more about the production and reliability of the values presented here. 
 

18 Best & Warmest Places in Europe in Winter for a Winter Sun Holiday

Escape the cold to one of the warmest places in Europe in winter for a much-needed dose of vitamin D.

There is no better feeling than warm sun and mild temperatures to break up the harsh winter days back home. Luckily, during the winter season, many European welcome warm sunny days just calling for a visit. Visiting Europe in winter is wonderful. During this season there are 1/4 of the tourists in summer, prices are lower, and the beauty is just as prominent. You can enjoy warm days full of culture and history that you cannot find anywhere else!

This post contains:

• The warmest place in Europe in December
• The warmest place in Europe in January
• The warmest places in Europe in February

Keep reading to discover a complete list of the warmest places in Europe in winter and get planning!

(Disclaimer: Some links in this post may be affiliate links, meaning if you click on the link and make a purchase, I receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you and you may even receive a small discount. See disclosure for more information. )

15 Warmest Places in Europe in December

In This Post

Overall: Warmest Places in Europe in Winter

The overall warmest places in Europe in winter are:

• Tenerife, Canary Islands
• Lanzarote, Canary Islands
• Lagos, Portugal
• Malaga, Spain
• Paphos, Cyprus

Warmest Places in Europe in December

Below are the warmest and best places to visit in Europe in December. December is one of the warmest winter months in Europe and the best time to plan a winter getaway if you want to try and hit the warmest weather.

Madeira, Portugal

Madiera is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. This hidden gem is an autonomous region of Portugal located off the coast of Africa. It is made up of 4 islands each with its own charm and beauty. Madiera’s tropical climate, rugged landscapes, lush mountains, and beautiful beaches make it one of the best places to visit in Europe in December.

Madiera is not the warmest place to visit in winter in Europe but temperatures remain quite mild which allows you to enjoy outdoor activities without overheating.

Paphos, Cyprus

Paphos is easily one of the best places to visit in Europe in December. It is located on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus as south as you can go in Europe. This city is incredibly historic with its history dating back to Neolithic times. It is the perfect place to visit in winter for visiting famous ancient ruins of tombs, archeological sites and more.

Paphos is also the warmest place in Europe in December and overall one of the warmest places in Europe in winter.

Gibraltar, UK

Gibraltar is a un unexpected hidden gem located on the southern coast of Spain. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in December for an exciting and very off-the-beaten-track winter sun holiday. The most famous sight here is the Rock of Gibraltar which dominates the territory. But it is also home to a unique history and beautiful architecture.

Gibraltar is one of the warmest places in Europe in December and is also one of the warmest places in Europe in January and February. This makes it an ideal place to visit during all winter months.

São Miguel, Portugal

São Miguel is a beautiful island sitting almost in the middle of North America and Europe in the North Atlantic Sea. It is part of the Portuguese Azores archipelago and is easily one of the best places to visit in Europe in December. São Miguel is a place of beauty with its lush flora, thriving marine life, volcanic landscapes and more.

You can also find various hot springs on the island offering a calming getaway after a stressful winter. This is not only one of the warmest places in Europe in winter but also one of the most beautiful.

Sicily, Italy

Sicily is a historic and beautiful Italian region located at the southern end of Italy. This is the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and a top travel destination year-round. During the winter season, you can expect mild temperatures, but smaller crowds making explorations much more enjoyable.

Expect breathtaking beaches, magical villages and a plethora of ancient ruins and archaeological sites. All this combined makes it one of the best places to visit in Europe in December.

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Want to enjoy a more luxurious and high-end winter holiday? Then Monte Carlo is calling! This glamorous area in Monaco is located along the French Riviera and offers a holiday like no other. Here you can enjoy mesmerizing palaces, yachts, casinos and world-class restaurants.

Monte Carlo is not just one of the warmest places in Europe in Winter, but also one of the most exclusive.

Antalya, Turkey

Antalya is a resort city located in Turkey. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in December for warm weather, stunning views, and a unique holiday experience. Situated along the world-famous Mediterranean Sea you can expect turquoise water and beautiful beaches.

Antalya is also one of the warmest places to visit in Europe in winter for all the winter months!

Lagos, Portugal

Lagos, Portugal is one of the warmest places in Europe in winter and a top winter holiday destination for Europeans and internationals alike. Located in Portugal’s world-famous Algarve region, Lagos is one of the best and most beautiful cities to spend a winter holiday in. With its unique orange-hued cliffs, small charming town, and endless beaches Lagos is one of the best places to visit in Europe in December (and year-round)

Warmest Places in Europe in January

Discover the best places to visit in Europe in January. Below you will find the warmest place to visit in Europe in January for the perfect post-Christmas holiday.

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Tenerife is a Spanish island off the coast of West Africa. It is the largest of the world-famous Canary Islands and offers amazing temperatures year-round. With highs of 20°C, you can put your winter hats away and enjoy some much-needed beach and sun time! This vibrant island is known for its beautiful beaches, resorts and many festivals!

Tenerife is actually the warmest place in Europe in January and if high temperatures and little rain are what you seek then this is perfect.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Lanzarote is another island that is part of Spain’s Canary Islands and the warmest place in Europe in January. With its year-round high temperatures and little rain, it is the perfect place to plan a winter sun holiday in Europe. A visit to Lanzarote will offer a more different and exciting holiday with its volcanic landscapes and unique terrain.

Head to Lanzarote in December, January or February as the temperatures for all these months are very warm and sometimes surpass the highs!

Majorca, Spain

Majorca is the largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands sitting in the Mediterranean Sea between Spain and Italy. This is one of the best places to visit in Europe in winter to see and experience the raw beauty this island holds. With its limestone mountains, rocky shores, and bright blue waters Majorca is a paradise travel destination.

In the summer months, Majorca is packed with tourists. So much so, that exploring can get a little uncomfortable. However, in the winter you can see and experience everything without hundreds of others surrounding you.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta is the capital of the small Mediterranean Island of Malta. This amazing medieval city is not the warmest place in Europe in January but very close! With highs of 17C, you can enjoy outdoor adventures exploring the natural beauty and historic buildings without overheating.

Malaga, Spain

Malaga is a charming and beautiful city located in the South of Spain. With Spain being the warmest place in Europe in January on the mainland of the continent it is a great option if you don’t want to travel too long and far to reach your destination. Known for its beaches, old town, and mix of Moorish and Renaissance architecture, Malaga is a place you will not want to miss.

Warmest Places in Europe in February

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is an Italian island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the warmest places in Europe in winter that offers a wide range of things to do during this season. In fact, most of the top things to do are best done in during the colder season like hiking its many beautiful trails!

	High	Low	Rainfall Days
December	15°C	6. 6°C	15
January	14°C	5.5°C	14
February	15°C	5.8°C	14

Rome, Italy

Rome is a stunning city to visit year-round and starts heating up after a cool winter in February. Highs suggest 14°C but you may even see higher temperatures! With Rome being such a big city with so much to do and see, venturing here during the off-season is ideal to experience the city as your own.

Seville, Spain

Seville is one of the very few cities on this list that is not a seafront city! Located inland, Seville is a beautiful city in Spain with plenty to do and see. With temperatures reaching 18°C in February, Sevilla is easily one of the warmest places in Europe in winter and the ideal place to visit to escape the cold harsh winter days.

Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is located in one of Europe’s most underrated countries: Montenegro. This Mediterranean gem is full of beauty and wonder and is easily one of the most beautiful places in Europe. It is also one of the warmest places in Europe in winter with highs increasing to over 13°C in February!

Travel Insurance

Getting travel insurance before you travel is a MUST. It’s the number one thing you should always pack before travelling that can save you a lot of money, time, and stress. With how crazy travel has gotten recently you need that peace of mind that no matter what happens there is something protecting you from losing out. I always travel with travel insurance and think everyone should.

World Nomads is a popular Travel Insurance choice. Enter your details below to get a free quote! 

Your winter sun holiday waits!

Like this post? Pin “Warmest Places in Europe in Winter” for later!

Love,

SSW

Where is hot in January 2022/2023: Top holiday destinations

Destination

Type of guide
OverviewBest time to goClimate guide5-day forecastToday’s weatherJanuaryFebruaryMarchAprilMayJuneJulyAugustSeptemberOctoberNovemberDecember

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

We all know that the weather in January in Europe is somewhat lacking if you’re craving winter sun. Not only is it one of the coldest months of the year, but the days are short and sunshine hours are near their lowest.

Where is hot in January for 2023/2024?

Below are average maximum temperatures at popular holiday destinations in January. Select a destination to see more weather parameters.

• 32

  Gambia

• 32

  Goa

• 32

  Kenyan Coast

• 32

  Phuket

• 32

  Thailand

• 32

  Zanzibar

• 31

  Kerala

• 31

  Sri Lanka

• 30

  Bali

• 30

  Maldives

• 30

  Mauritius

• 29

  Jamaica

• 29

  Seychelles

• 28

  Barbados

• 28

  Cancun

• 28

  Chiang Mai

• 28

  Dominican Republic

• 26

  Cuba

• 25

  Cape Town

• 25

  Cape Verde

• 24

  Dubai

• 24

  Florida

• 24

  Miami

• 23

  Marsa Alam

• 22

  Luxor

• 21

  Orlando

• 20

  California

• 20

  Gran Canaria

• 20

  Lanzarote

• 19

  Fuerteventura

Destinations by world areas

• Africa
• Antarctica & Southern Ocean
• Asia
• Caribbean
• Central America
• Central Asia
• Europe
• Far East
• Indian Ocean
• Mediterranean
• Middle East
• North Africa
• North America
• Oceania
• Russian Federation
• Scandinavia
• South America
• South East Asia
• Southern Asia

Hot places in January with the best weather

If you’re after a relaxing beach holiday, you will have to travel, and we have some great destinations with hot, dry and sunny weather at this time.

However, if you prefer the more pleasant and comfortable conditions of destinations slightly closer to home for walking, hiking or simply escaping the great freeze at home, we have those too. Read on to discover our pick of destinations with the best holiday weather in January:

• Short haul
• Long haul – up to 10 hours
• Long haul – 10 hours or more

Weather in January © Rvc5pogod – Dreamstime.com

Short haul: Canaries, Morocco & Egypt

Trusty year-round favourite the Canary Islands offers sunshine in January (warmer and sunnier than anywhere in the Med) with temperatures on the southerly island of Gran Canaria reaching 20°C during the day, falling to a minimum of 13°C at night – similar to Bournemouth at the height of summer in the UK.

While all of the Canary Islands enjoy generally dry weather in January with six to seven hours of sunshine a day, Gran Canaria’s location ensures it typically has the highest temperatures.

Winter pursuits, Gran Canaria – photo courtesy of Gran Canaria Tourist Board

The Mediterranean, meanwhile, is at its coldest in January, with the Costa Blanca offering the best conditions peaking at 16°C, followed by Malta.

However, these are not exactly beach holiday conditions. Even reliably warm Cyprus hibernates in January thanks to the cold continental air from Eastern Europe and Russia, which keeps things decisively cool.

Make for North Africa instead, and choose between two very different destinations: in Morocco, the weather in Marrakech makes it a wonderful city escape with temperatures in the high teens, seven hours of sunshine, and minimal chance of rain.

Old Cataract Hotel, Aswan © David Holt – Flickr Creative Commons

For a touch more heat, however, look east to Egypt‘s Red Sea resort of Marsa Alam, with up to eight hours of sunshine and temperatures in the low to mid twenties, although the sea is possibly a little cool for some at 23°C, so a heated pool is likely to be needed.

By far the sunniest destination, however, is Aswan on Egypt’s glorious River Nile. The weather here in January is warm (tipping just over 23°C by day) and delightfully sunny (with up to eight hours per day).

The only thing to watch out for with Aswan are the cooler evenings, when temperatures dips to below 10°C.

Back to top

Long haul – up to 10 hours: Barbados, St Lucia & Grenada

For real beach weather, nothing quite beats the Caribbean, which is the closest region with true beach holiday conditions at this time.

As a general rule, the islands to the south have the most sunshine, with Barbados standing out as exceptionally good, with invitingly hot and sunny conditions.

Temperatures sit just below 30°C, rarely dropping lower than 21°C at night, and the sea is thoroughly pleasant at around 26°C. There’s also little in the way of rain.

St George’s, Grenada © Tony Hisgett – Flickr Creative Commons

Other islands with almost identical weather at this time include Grenada and St Lucia, although the latter has only moderate heat and humidity, compared to high heat and humidity in both Barbados and Grenada.

When compared to popular winter sun destinations in the Indian Ocean or southeast Asia, the Caribbean isn’t quite as hot, with temperatures peaking a few degrees below the likes of the Maldives, Goa and Thailand.

It is, however, that bit closer to the UK, as well as home to incredibly beautiful landscapes and resorts, so don’t let the minimal difference put you off visiting this region in January.

Back to top

Long haul – 10 hours or more: Kenya, Maldives & Goa

If hopping on a long haul flight is no issue, think about taking a trip to Thailand, where the weather in January is excellent.

As well as enduring far less heat and humidity than the summer months, it’s also the dry season, so there’s almost a complete absence of rain.

Expect up to nine hours of sunshine a day in Phuket, with temperatures rising into the low thirties, and sea temperatures at a delightful 28°C.

Beach in southern Thailand © Kal Hendry – Flickr Creative Commons

In the mountains to the north around Chiang Mai, January sees some of the finest weather of the year. You’ll often enjoy cloudless days, and cooler, more comfortable temperatures than at the beach resorts in the south of the country.

Another benefit of holidaying in Thailand, is that once you’re there, it’s an affordable destination to explore and experience.

Then there’s the southern hemisphere, where there are plenty of places with perfect holiday weather in January.

Starting in the west Indian Ocean, Kenya‘s idyllic Malindi is the epitome of an exotic beach destination, with temperatures stretching up to 31°C and falling no further than around 22°C come dusk.

It’s also a treat for swimmers, with sea temperature sitting comfortably at around 28°C.

Luxury in the Maldives © Qim Mohd Ali – Flickr Creative Commons

Next up is the Maldives, over 2,000 miles to the northeast of the Kenyan coast. It’s an obvious choice for a beach break, as January marks the start of the driest time of the year that extends into April.

Temperatures peak at around 30°C during the day and, with nine hours of sunshine most days, it’s tropical beach weather at its finest.

The only thing to note with both the Maldives and Malindi is the extreme level of UV, which is severe at this time, so a strong SPF is essential.

Beach in Goa © Samrat35 – Dreamstime.com

Those on more of a budget should look further east to Goa in India, where the weather normally delivers wall-to-wall sunshine with no chance of a rainy day.

Temperatures in Goa in January are in the low thirties and sea is as warm as you’d find in Malindi and the Maldives. Head to the southern half of Goa for quieter beaches and smaller resorts.

Another option in India experiencing good weather in January is Kerala, just under 400 miles to the south of Goa. Temperatures are about the same as in Goa and, although the sky is not quite as cloud-free, it’s still the middle of the dry season with nine hours of sunshine a day.

For something more cosmopolitan, Cape Town is superb. As it’s the height of summer, days are long with 11 hours of sunshine on average, and temperatures hovering around the mid-twenties with low heat and humidity – great if you don’t like it too hot.

Karri Forest south of Perth, Australia © Amanda Slater – Flickr Creative Commons

Finally, if you don’t mind the flight(s), Australia is also enjoying its summer in January. While Sydney has around seven hours of sunshine and temperatures reaching 26°C, why not head to the west coast, where things get a little hotter in Perth. Here you’ll find just over 11 hours of sunshine each day, and highs of over 30°C.

It’s clear that if you’re looking for great beach conditions in January, you’ll have to travel further than you would in our spring and summer months.

However, that’s not to say destinations closer to home don’t offer some great city break and activity focused options.

Visit our where to go on holiday in January section for more ideas on holiday destinations with good weather in January, and remember to check out our current travel deals and discounts for some great winter sun offers.

Back to top

Related posts

• White Isle wonders: Ibiza’s best beaches & bays

• How to make the most of a cruise stop in Ajaccio, Corsica

• All aboard: what not to miss on a river cruise through Austria

Popular travel offers

• TUI: £150 off Autumn + pay £0 deposits for 2023

• British Airways sale: Top deals on holidays & flights

• Sandals: £150 off all inclusive Caribbean holidays

Top ^

*affiliate links: find out how we are funded and why this helps us remain free to use.

34 Best Countries to Visit in January (Perfect for Relaxation & Adventure)

Dreaming of a January getaway? From amazing beach vacations to exploring winter wonderlands, the winter is a fantastic time to travel! So if you’ve ever wondered what are the best countries to visit in January – here’s your list.

Perfect vacation in January – Thailand (see #6)

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my disclosures.

Whether your idea of the best place to visit in January is to escape the cold and look for sun or the beach, or you’re wishing for snowy adventures like skiing and ice castles, this list has a little bit of everything.

Some of these destinations are in the shoulder season, so you’ll find affordable pricing, which is always a bonus, too! From experiencing destinations with tons of culture to cities with amazing food scenes, you’ll find the perfect spot for your vacation in January.

Covering countries from all over the world, this list is going to inspire you to start searching for flights! Let’s dive in!

Map of the best countries to visit in January

From the Alps to the Caribbean and some underrated spots you haven’t thought of, this list covers a lot! Use this map as a visual to help you plan your vacation in January.

Pinch and zoom in to narrow down on a region that you’re considering, then check out the descriptions below.

Oh, and by the way, since I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with this list. I think you’re gonna love it.😉

Best countries to visit in January

January is a fabulous time to travel! Whether you’re looking to escape the winter cold and hit the beach, you’re up for adventure in a new city, or you’re wishing for a winter wonderland to enjoy, here’s some amazing destinations.

1. Costa Rica (one of the best places to visit in January for sun)

View of Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica from above 😍

Average temp: high 78, low 64 (varied by region)
Fly into: Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose

If you’re looking for the best countries to visit in January, then Costa Rica absolutely needs to be on your radar! Zipline through cloud forests, watch monkeys and toucans dance around in the trees, dip your toes into luxurious sandy beaches and enjoy great food, Costa Rica has so much to offer visitors.

December through April is dry season, as it’s when you’ll see the best weather in Costa Rica. Although the temperatures vary based on which region you travel to, it’s still a great getaway than being stuck in the cold back home.

Visit the famous Arenal Volcano and enjoy the hot springs in La Fortuna. Still in the mountainous region, there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde, including ziplining and walking the suspension bridges through the cloud forests.

For a perfect beach getaway, head west to Tamarindo, where you can hit the water surfing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. With hotels and restaurants sprinkled throughout the beach, it’s a great spot to spend a few days.

If you’re looking for more adventure, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can witness monkeys and sloths hanging about! Be sure to spend some time at the best beaches in Manuel Antonio, including my favorite, Playa Espadilla Sur.

Costa Rica is definitely one of the best places to visit in January for sun, and a destination you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

2. Austria

Beautiful sights of Austria in January😍

Average temp: high 37, low 27 (varies by region)
Fly into: Vienna International Airport, Schwechat

Austria is a landlocked country between Germany and Italy, located in Central Europe. The alps extend from the west to the east and create a perfect winter wonderland every year.

People come from all over the world to enjoy the warm and fun ski resort experience in the Austrian mountains. There is something for everyone, from skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, ice skating, snow walking, sledging to country cross skiing.

A mulled wine or a Jagertee warm up every cold heart! Villages and cities are decorated with wonderful lights, creating a magical dreamy environment, the perfect place for a vacation in January. This is the best time to relax body and soul in some of the most remarkable thermal baths and sauna villages in Central Europe.

Old traditions make Austria a unique place to be in January. They can still be experienced at the beginning of January, the Perchten run in the Tyrol region and the Glöckler run in Styria. The capital city Vienna, as well as other well-known cities such as Salzburg and Innsbruck, are for all those looking for classic inspiration and the vibes of a long gone empire.

Curious travelers can discover more top places in Austria. The weather in Austria in January is usually between 0 and 50 Fahrenheit. The higher one travels, the colder it gets.

The best way to get to Austria is via the Vienna airport, located in the east. Other options include the Salzburg airport, Innsbruck airport or even the much larger Munich airport in Germany.

The Austria Trend Hotels provide the most comfortable and memorable stays in Austria. Budget-travelers will want to look out for homely vacation rental properties. Things can be a bit expensive in Austria in January, but your journey will be less costly than a stay in neighboring Switzerland.

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

3. Colombia

Beautiful city streets in Cartagena, Colombia

Average temp: high 66, low 45
Fly into: El Dorado International Airport, Bogota

The South American country of Colombia is a great destination in January – in fact, it’s one of the best weather times to visit of the entire year! In January, the sun is shining, the weather is warm (though there is a huge variety of average temperatures throughout the country), and the rain is low. 

In general, Colombia is a great place to visit, no matter the time of year. It’s a very inexpensive country to travel to, and there’s a wide variety of things to see and do. The capital city of Bogota has an old town filled with colonial architecture, cobblestoned streets, and a wide variety of historical buildings and world class museums.  

Or, you can visit the Coffee Region of Colombia, such as the little, colorful town of Salento. Here, you can visit the coffee farms of Colombia or go hiking in the Cocora Valley, a magical hike into the mountains, where you can see the famous wax palms of Colombia – the tallest palms in the world that grow up to 200 feet high!

Finally, a must visit spot in Colombia is the coastal city of Cartagena, a photogenic, absolutely gorgeous colonial walled city with colorful buildings covered in plants and flowers. 

As you travel throughout Colombia, you’ll likely take a quick plane ride between the different cities. Many people choose to start their Colombia adventure by flying into the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota, and staying in Bogota at the Magdalena Guest House is a perfectly located spot to start your exploration of this gorgeous and varied country in South America. 

Colombia is one of the best places to visit in January for sun, culture and history!

Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

4.

Aruba (a favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Stunning beaches in Aruba

Average temp: high 86, low 76
Fly into: Queen Beatrix International Airport, Oranjestad

If you’re looking for a beachy escape from the clutches of old man winter, look no further than gorgeous Aruba! January is a fantastic time to visit not only to enjoy sunny skies and 80-degree weather, but it’s also a unique place to ring in the New Year.

Typically, New Year’s Eve is kicked off with loads of fireworks throughout the city (if you were planning to sleep – good luck 😉), from large displays over the water to traditional Pagara (long strings of Chinese firecrackers) throughout the streets; there’s no end to colorful and fiery displays.

After that, the party doesn’t stop! Throughout January and into February, there are countless parades like the nighttime Torch Light Parade and other festivities in honor of Carnival. The official start of Carnival is in November, but most of the festivities happen in January and February.

Because of these fun festivities, you should expect to pay a little more for accommodations. To get the best deal, book early!

Aside from a colorful party scene, Aruba is also known for mesmerizing white sand beaches like Palm and Eagle Beach. These are 2 great spots to kick back and relax with a fruity cocktail. They’re some of the best beaches in Aruba!

After relaxing, you’ll have an endless selection of dining options, including Dutch, Asian, African and it’s even one of the most vegan-friendly Caribbean Islands!

Aruba is one of the best beach vacations in January, and a destination you’ll love.

Recommended by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

5. Iceland

Rugged landscapes of Iceland

Average temp: high 37, low 26 (varies by region)
Fly into: Keflavík International Airport, Keflavik

If you’re looking for an epic winter adventure, consider visiting Iceland in January.  

While the days may be short here, you’ll get to enjoy Iceland’s spectacular scenery to yourself, given that the summer crowds have long departed. Better yet, you’ll likely get to see Iceland covered with glistening snow. This is a fantastic time to explore the country’s ice caves or go on a glacier hike!

People travel from all over the world to Iceland in January, given that it’s one of the absolute best months to see the spectacular Northern Lights, thanks to the long, dark nights.

You can either book a guided tour to try to find the lights or drive outside of major cities, away from light pollution, to spot them yourself. Patience is key- seeing the lights depends on whether there’s solar activity, as well as whether there’s clouds obscuring the night sky. 

Another excellent winter activity here is taking advantage of any of the geothermal hot springs you’ll find scattered throughout the country. The springs may be more natural, like the Hellulaug Hot Pool, which is just an organically-formed pool overlooking the ocean, or can be straight up swanky, like the recently opened Sky Lagoon, with an infinity pool and sauna with stunning views of Kársnes Harbour.

The easiest way to reach this tiny island country is to fly into Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport. 
Iceland’s weather in January is cold, but not as chilly as its Northern location might suggest, thanks to the relatively warm water from the gulf stream- you can expect temperatures to generally range from 26 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. 

So be sure to include lots of warm layers on your Iceland packing list, like a base layer, parka, and gloves so you can actually enjoy exploring Iceland’s incredible landscape.

You’ll love visiting Iceland – perhaps absolute best place to vacation in January for adventure!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

6. Thailand

Longboats on the beach of Phuket, Thailand

Average temp: high 89, low 73
Fly into: Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok / Phuket International Airport, Phuket

Thailand is an incredible place, and one of the best countries to visit in January. With a large variety of destinations to see within Thailand, you’ll need to decide what kind of experience you want to have, and plan your vacation accordingly.

If you’re looking for beautiful temples, rich in historic architecture loaded with history, then Bangkok or Chiang Mai might be the right spot for you. Stay in the city a few days to soak in the sights. Be sure to take a food tour, and if your’e in Bangkok, visit the floating markets.

If a beach getaway is what you’re after, you have a variety of choices as well. The Phi Phi Islands offer some of the most pristine beaches in all of Thailand. Or, you can opt for Krabi, where there’s a mix of beaches and historical sights to explore.

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, and for good reason. With beautiful white sand beaches and plenty of amenities and accommodations, there’s something for everyone.

Take a snorkeling tour or day trip from Phuket to see the area. And with an international airport, it’s easier to get to Phuket than some of the other islands in Thailand.

January is a fabulous time to visit Thailand because it’s the dry season. With plenty of sunshine, culture, food and activities, you’re sure to have a great time in Thailand!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

7. France (one of the best places to visit in January Europe)

Cannes in French Riviera

Average temp: high 56, low 37 (varies by region)
Fly into: Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur, Nice

The month of January is a great time to visit France because it is less crowded. Since it’s part of the low season, hotel and flight prices are more affordable.

Outside of the capital, Strasbourg in the north is a fantastic alternative. The Cathedral, art galleries, and taverns serving hearty plates of sauerkraut and local wines await visitors to this peaceful and unhurried city.

However, the French Riviera may be the best choice for people who prefer a warmer vacation in January. Also known as La Côte d’Azur (Azure Coast), it is accessible via the Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur which is the second busiest international airport in France next to Paris. The French Riviera is a good option for those who prefer milder temperatures. 

Visiting the French Riviera in January will show you a more laid-back side of France, free of curious tourists and offering more affordable rates. Fewer visitors mean you get a good deal in even the more expensive hotel rooms, as well as cheaper meals in the area’s top restaurants.

A highly recommended place to stay in the Royal Antibes, a stylish modern hotel with a prime location on the beach. The price of a room with huge glass windows and great views starts at slightly over €100.

You can spend your days touring the Côte d’Azur in between taking in the breathtaking vistas of the sea and basking in the mild Mediterranean weather. Enjoy the crisp winter days hiking the French Riviera’s beautiful trails, including the spectacular route over Èze-village or the Baou above St. Jeannet, with superb views over the Var Valley.

You might also find mimosas in the village of Tanneron, which is also home to Europe’s largest mimosa forest, the Massif de Tanneron.

The town of Menton, meanwhile, is known for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved old town center. The ancient walled city of Antibes is also well worth exploring. And if you want to experience a winter vacation like celebrities, you can also explore Cannes. 

Recommended by Christine of Journey To France

8. Antigua

Beautiful beaches in Antigua

Average temp: high 82, low 71
Fly into: 

Situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles, in the American West Indies,  Antigua is arguably one of the prettiest Caribbean islands. 

Although it is a favorite destination for honeymoons and romantic escapes, it makes a perfect vacation for any kind of traveler that is not on a budget.  

It is in fact quite an expensive destination, especially if you choose to stay at one of the beautiful Antigua all inclusive resorts on the pristine Caribbean coast, which is very much recommended if you want to enjoy the island at its best. 

Antigua and Barbuda is actually made of the 2 namesake islands and many small islets, some of which are great snorkeling spots that you can visit by joining one of the boat tours available. 

Antigua is one of the best countries to visit in January because it’s dry season with less risk of rain. So expect a lot of sunshine and blue sky. But also it’s the most expensive time of the year to travel to Antigua, for the same reason, which is something to keep in mind as well.

Antigua is renowned for its incredible beaches (they say there are 365, one for each day of the year) and spectacular landscapes. Its home to gorgeous scenery with lush hills tumbling over the white sand beaches and the turquoise Caribbean sea.

Among the things you shouldn’t miss in Antigua, besides getting pampered in your gorgeous luxury hotel, are:

• Rent a car to explore all the spectacular beaches, including Darkwood beach, Dickenson bay and Half Moon Bay
• Dance at the sound of calypso music at Shirley Heights on a Sunday while watching the sun going down
• Try the local cuisine in one of the delicious restaurants on the beach
• Take a walk around the historical site of Nelson Dockyard at English Harbour and join one of the boat tours around the island. 

If you’re traveling on a budget you can also find more modest accommodations but keep in mind that the overall cost of living in the island is high. 

Recommended by Isabella of Boundless Roads

Best place to vacation in January

Can you believe this list? And we’re just getting started! Let’s keep exploring all the amazing winter getaways!

9. Mexico

Mexico: one of the best countries to visit in January😍

Average temp: high 72, low 41 (varies by region)
Fly into: Benito Juárez International Airport, Mexico City

If you’re looking for a sunny getaway this January, take a trip adventuring around Mexico. As a massive country, enjoy everything from the vibrant Mexico City to the stunning cenotes of the Riviera Maya to colonial cultural towns and ancient ruins.

With its close proximity to the equator, Mexico enjoys year-round warm weather, making it the perfect place to escape the cold. One of the best months to visit the country, January is in the midst of Mexico’s dry season when temperatures are excellent and rain levels are low.

Average daytime temperature hovers between 75°F-85°F, but differs from region to region. At this time, colder winds and temperatures hit northern Mexico compared to the higher humidity in the south.

Everyone celebrates Christmas in Mexico, and even though January is a bit late for the festivities, enjoy strolling around every town decorated to the brim with holiday decor. January also signals the start of amazing festivals like Merida Fest, Fiesta Grande de Chiapa de Corzo, and Carnaval Jiutepec in Cuernavaca.

Most international flights will land you in the capital Mexico City or other popular tourist hotspots like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas. From there, a fantastic public transportation system can bring you to any neighboring cities and tourist attractions.

For those landing in Mexico City, book a stay in Hotel MX Centro as a starting point for your Mexico adventure!

Recommended by Catherine of Nomadicated

10. Spain

Malaga, Spain, one of the best places to visit in Europe in January

Average temp: high 62, low 46 (varies by region)
Fly into: Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, Malaga

If you are looking for a warm winter destination, the south of Spain and the Spanish islands are excellent options. Enjoy the mild temperatures and sunny days, discover beautiful landmarks and landscapes and immerse yourself in the food culture.

Travelling to the south of Spain or the Spanish islands in January is a smart choice to avoid crowds, extreme heat and high prices on flights and accommodation.

There are many incredible destinations in these parts of Spain, but a popular choice in the south of Spain is Malaga, the best destination for anyone that wants to escape the cold and rainy winter.

Many people believe that Malaga is a summer getaway, however, there are many reasons to visit Malaga in winter.

One of the reasons is the weather. Temperatures are mild and most days are sunny. The average maximum temperature in January is 16.8°C (62.24°F) which is ideal to do outdoor activities.

This time of the year is fantastic for sightseeing and exploring as the heat and humidity in the summer months don’t allow you to do so. When visiting Malaga, you can’t miss attractions like the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress palace, the cathedral and Picasso Museum. 

However, if you love nature, you can also enjoy going on beautiful hiking trails. One of the best places to go hiking is Montes de Malaga Nature Park. 

Another good reason to visit Malaga in January is to experience the festive period as Christmas ends on the 6th of January. If you are in the city on the 5th, don’t miss the Three Kings Parade. 

Last but not least, January is the cheapest month to visit Malaga. If you travel from a European country, you will find amazing and budget-friendly flight fares and good accommodation rates too.

The nearest airport to travel to Malaga is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) which is 15 minutes from the city centre, and if you are looking for a hotel, Room Mate Valeria offers beautiful and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

Southern Spain is a lovely winter getaway, and Spain is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in January.

Recommended by Cristina of The Little World of Travelling

11. Belize (another favorite for best beach vacations in January)

Beach and pier in Placencia, Belize😍

Average temp: high 83, low 68
Fly into: Goldson International Airport, Belize City

The small Central American country of Belize is a dream to visit if you’re looking for a sunny vacation in January. Offering a variety of things to do in Belize from picturesque islands to fun beach towns and ancient ruins to explore, there’s so much to experience!

January is a great time to travel to Belize because many of the holiday tourists are gone and it’s the dry season, so you’ll have gorgeous weather for exploring.

For a beach vacation, head to Ambergris Caye or Placencia. You’ll find beautiful beaches that aren’t overcrowded like they can be in Florida or other spots in the Caribbean.

If you’re looking for history and culture, head inland to San Ignacio and visit the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins. Learn the fascinating history of how the Mayans lived and operated their stone structures while climbing atop the largest in the complex, El Castillo.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation where golf cart is the preferred method to get around or you’re up for chasing waterfalls and seeing monkeys roam through the jungles, Belize has a destination perfect for you!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

12.

Maldives

Stunning beaches in Maldives; a perfect January getaway

Average temp: high 80, low 77
Fly into: Velana International Airport, Male

If you’re thinking of starting the New Year with a bang, what better way to do this than laying on a dreamy beach, with white powdered sand and sone of the clearest water in the world? A trip to the Maldives should be on everyone’s bucket list, and January is the perfect time to do it. 

Although it’s right in the middle of the season, January is perfect for a trip to the Maldives as it’s right after the holidays and just before Valentine’s Day, so the prices are really great during these times. You can even find some affordable water villas if you dig enough, and you can maybe score a nice room at this resort that I’m sure you’ve seen on Instagram already.

Getting there is easy, as there’s one main airport used as a hub, located next to the Capital city of Male. From here, you reach your resort island by either speed boat, seaplane, or a combination of the two, but this is handled by the accommodation itself so you really don’t have to worry about anything while on your trip.

And if you usually have a long list of activities to do while on vacation, you’ll have to adjust when in the Maldives: here, you can only lay on a beach or float in the water.

Of course, you can do various water activities like snorkeling, diving, or going on sunset cruises, or you can lay on a sunbed, hammock, or on a massage table, but you get the point. There’s really no better place in the world to relax than this tropical paradise!

Maldives easily earns a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January!

Recommended by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories

13. Singapore

Famous Supertree Grove in Singapore

Average temp: high 87, low 75
Fly into: Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Singapore is one of the best countries to visit in January for those looking for a warm and sunny getaway. The weather is hot and humid year round but January is one of the cooler months making it a great time to visit.

The temperature will still be hot so it is best to see indoor attractions during midday and early afternoon. The evening is a great time to walk around and explore as Singapore is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

One of the top and most unique Singapore attractions is Gardens by the Bay, a large nature park with both outdoor and indoor gardens and conservatories. Don’t miss Supertree Grove, made up of huge tree-shaped vertical gardens, that puts on free light and music shows every night.

Another must do is to walk along the waterfront promenade while enjoying skyline views and passing by landmarks including the ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge and the Merlion statue. Explore and dine at one of the many interesting city neighborhoods such as Kampong Glam, Little India, and Chinatown.

The beautiful Singapore Botanic Gardens is also worth visiting. Ride the cable car to Sentosa Island for family friendly attractions and beaches.

Singapore is very easy to reach by air as it is home to Changi Airport, which is considered an attraction itself. Consider staying at a hotel with a rooftop pool such as the Marina Bay Sands, the iconic hotel known for its long rooftop infinity pool.

Recommended by Matilda of The Travel Sisters

14. Switzerland

Winter wonderland in Switzerland in January

Average temp: high 38, low 28
Fly into: Zurich International Airport, Zurich

Switzerland is definitely one of the best places to visit in Europe in January if you like snow! 

Since 60% of the country consists of the Alps, it’s designed for winter sport activities. Switzerland has an incredible number of famous ski resorts with a high amount of lifts and gondolas to take you into the beautiful winter wonderland. 

Impressive landscapes, exemplary service and snow reliability, you can expect great skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland. The Alpine country has a lot to offer when it comes to winter sports.

The mountain village of Zermatt, for example, impresses with a total of 360 kilometers (223+ miles) of slopes and over 60 lifts. It’s the largest ski area in Switzerland and one of the best ski resorts in the world.

Enjoy a little less hustle and bustle, a smaller but just as beautiful is Flumserberg in central Switzerland or Samnaun in the east. No matter which of Switzerland’s many standout spots you choose, traditional cheese fondue is available almost everywhere, often served in small, beautiful chalets or under open starry skies. 

South of the Alps, in Ticino, snow may not be guaranteed in January, but this region scores with the sunniest days in the country. So, if it’s raining or snowing elsewhere in the country in January, you can take a beautiful walk along Lake Lugano and enjoy the snow-covered Alpine peaks through your sunglasses in the bright and warm sun.  

Pro tip: come to Switzerland in January and bypass the school winter vacations, the country’s slopes are a little less busy. 

The biggest airport in Switzerland is Zurich and thanks to a great developed railroad network, you can reach almost any place in the country from Zurich in 3 hours. 

Recommended by Linda of Hiking the Alps

15. Guatemala (perfect for a low-key January getaway)

Find adventure and culture in Guatemala

Average temp: high 75, low 54
Fly into: La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City

Guatemala is a great vacation in January as it’s the peak dry season. Enjoy warm weather, great culture and amazing adventures.

It’s a budget destination, so your money will stretch further here than in nearby countries such as Costa Rica and Panama.

Top travel destinations in Guatemala include Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Antigua is a beautiful Spanish colonial city with many things to do. In fact, it’s one of the best tropical Christmas destinations in the Americas.

The #1 attraction near Antigua is climbing Acatenango Volcano and witnessing its’ neighbour, Fuego (Fire) Volcano, erupting every 30-40 minutes. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed!

A 3 hour drive from Antigua will take you to the central highlands and Lake Atitlan. The lake is a magical place with a near-perfect mid-20s temperature (mid-70’s in Fahrenheit) all year round. Surrounded by 3 volcanoes, the views from Lake Atitlan are something special!

There are 12 towns surrounding Lake Atitlan, each offering something a little different and unique. San Pedro is a favorite for backpackers and San Marcos is a favorite for the hippy crowd. Wherever you end up visiting, travel between towns is quick and easy.

Travel between towns across the lake on little boats, known locally as Lanchas. The longest journey will be about 30 minutes and the cost less than $2.   

Free Cerveza in Santa Cruz La Laguna is an interesting place to stay. A glamping site with private eco-lodges and tee-pee style tents, there is always something going on.

Enjoy complimentary use of the facilities, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Santa Cruz is one of the best places on the lake to swim and offers fantastic views of the volcanoes in the distance.    

Go for something a little different on your next holiday, go to Guatemala!

Recommended by Wes of Walk About Wes

16. Canada

The frozen wonderland in Lake Louise, Canada

Average temp: high 30, low 13 (varies by region)
Fly into: Calgary International Airport, Alberta

So many destinations in Canada turn into the most magical winter wonderland during the month of January, and are sure to cure anyone’s post-holiday blues.

One of the most exciting places to visit is the Canadian Rockies region and Banff National Park. At Lake Louise, you’ll have the chance to skate across the frozen lake with a backdrop of the snow-capped mountains.

This outdoor ice rink has even been named the world’s best by CNN! During the month of January, the entrance to the lake is surrounded by a beautiful ice castle, which will have you feeling like you’re in a snow globe in no time.

Through most of January, Canyon Lights puts on an amazing display at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver. This bridge is one of the most scenic places to visit in Canada year-round, but when the bridge and surrounding park are aglow with thousands of twinkling lights, it’s even more amazing to experience. 

Heading over to the East Coast side of Canada, the best place to vacation in January is Old Quebec, a historic section of Quebec city. This area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and will have you feeling you’ve been transported to Europe.

Many of the picturesque streets will still have their holiday decor and lights up through most of January, and are especially magical after a snowfall. Visitors can enjoy rides down a toboggan chute, which has been operating for the last 135 years. 

To visit Banff National Park and Lake Louise, you’ll want to fly into Calgary, and from there, you’ll need to rent a car to get around. If you want to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights display, you can fly right into Vancouver, and rely on public transportation and ride share services to get around. Then to visit Old Quebec, the best airport to fly into is Quebec City Airport.

Canada offers a variety of experiences, and it’s definitely one of the best countries to visit in January.

Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust

More of the best countries to visit in January

Not even half done with the list. Do you have your January getaway picked out yet? Here’s more fabulous ideas ahead…

17. Australia

Sydney, Australia in January

Average temp: high 79, low 66 (varies by region)
Fly into: Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport, Sydney

One of the best countries to visit in January for sun is Australia. On the other side of the hemisphere, January is one of the warmest summer months.

Australia is an enormous country which means that temperatures can vary depending on where you go. From as warm as 89 F(32 C) degrees in Perth to as “cold” as 79 F (26 C) in Melbourne. 

Besides the sunny weather, Australia has a lot more to offer. With a 21,126 miles (34,000 KM) long coastline, you can find beautiful beaches and cliffs all around the country. This makes beach hopping and surfing 2 of the most popular things to do in the country.

Nature lovers will have no shortage of green scenery as Australia is the number one country when it comes to the most national parks worldwide (over 650). 

A good place to start your Australian vacation is Sydney. It’s home to the largest airport that has the most international flight connections. On top of that, Sydney is also just a beautiful and lively city with amazing beaches.

For outdoor lovers, its close proximity to the Blue Mountains National Park is perfect. And wine lovers will enjoy a day trip to the Hunter Valley to try some Australian wine and bring home a unique Australian souvenir. 

For solo travelers, The Wake-Up Bondi hostel is a great place to stay. If you’re looking for a hotel, the Travelodge Hotel Sydney Martin Place is a good option too. 

Recommended by Lara of The Best Travel Gifts

18. UAE

Fun, sun and adventure in Dubai, UAE in January

Average temp: high 75, low 59
Fly into: Dubai International Airport, Dubai / Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi

If you’re looking to soak in the warm winter sun, then the UAE makes for an amazing destination. This Middle Eastern country is home to 7 Emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the most popular ones.

Both these glamorous Emirates have their own international airport and an array of hotels to choose from. From ultra-luxurious to boutique properties, from business hotels to glamping sites and from desert retreats to oceanfront suites, the accommodation offer is downright dazzling.

With daytime temperatures averaging 24°C or 75°F and nighttime temperatures averaging 15°C or 59°F, January is an excellent month to spend your vacation days outdoors without suffering from the scorching heat that affects the UAE most of the year.

You could choose to spend your days relaxing at a soft white sand beach, admire the view from the observation deck at the world’s tallest building, take an adventurous desert safari from Dubai, soak up the atmosphere of the souks, visit the mesmerizing Abu Dhabi mosque, cruise the Arabian Gulf by speedboat, kayak through the mangroves or zipline between the most spectacular mountainscapes.

And fashionistas will certainly appreciate the Dubai Shopping Festival that takes place in January. So, when an action-packed winter vacation with a touch of glamour is what you’re looking for, then the UAE will not disappoint!

The UAE is one of the best places to visit in January for sun and adventure!

Recommended by Sarah of CosmopoliClan

19.

Portugal

Busy Porto, Portugal, perfect for a January getaway

Average temp: high 59, low 47 (varies by region)
Fly into: Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, Porto

Portugal is a charming winter destination and is one of the top warm European places to visit in January. Portugal’s temperate climate is perfect for a wonderful vacation across the country.

Start your Portuguese adventure with the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto. It’s a city famous for its association with port wine.

From boat trips on the Douro River to discovering hidden architectural gems, there are plenty of places to visit in Porto. The old Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Rumoured to be the inspiration behind the Harry Potter books, Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and one of the must-visit attractions in Porto.

Next, climb the Clerigos Tower for a stunning view over the city skyline. No visit to Porto is complete without taking a tour of its famous port wine cellars. You’ll find many of them in Gaia, on the other side of the Douro River.

Finally, head down to Matosinhos beach and Foz do Douro promenade for a day out by the beach. The closest airport to the city is the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, which is well-connected to the city by public transport.

You can also add the vibrant capital city of Lisbon to your holiday itinerary. Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest cities, having received more days of sunshine than any other European capital.

You’ll love visiting Portugal. It’s deserving of a spot on this list of best places to visit in January (Europe).

Recommended by Moumita & Sankha of Chasing the Long Road

20. USA (so many can’t miss destinations for a vacation in January)

Hanalei Bay in Kauai, Hawaii in January💛

Average temp: high 68, low 46 (in the southern region – varies greatly throughout)
Fly into: Denver International Airport, Denver / Kahului Airport, Maui / Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan

Similar to Canada, Mexico and Australia, the USA has a variety of climates and destinations perfect for January. And although it’s impossible to choose just one, these popular January destinations in the USA are all great for wintertime travel.

Vail or Breckenridge, Colorado offer some of the best ski resorts in the world! If you’re looking for a perfect winter getaway with fluffy white snow, consider the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Hawaii is an obvious choice if you’re looking for warm vacations in January in the US, since it’s average high temperatures hover around 80 degrees throughout the islands.

Watch the sunset on Haleakala in Maui, take a helicopter ride over the NaPali Coast in Kauai, visit the impressive Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, or hike to the top of Diamond Head to overlook Waikiki Beach in Oahu. Hawaii is full of adventure!

Another hot spot for a best place to vacation in January is Puerto Rico. There’s so many things to do in Old San Juan, including visiting the 500+ year old fort, El Morro. And if you’re looking for a perfect beach, head to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico on the nearby island of Culebra.

Without a doubt, the USA offers some spectacular January getaways!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

21. El Salvador

Underrated El Tunco, El Salvador

Average temp: high 85, low 64
Fly into: San Salvador Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport, San Luis Talpa

El Salvador is an underrated destination in Central America, and one of the best countries to visit in January. A great spot to visit in El Salvador is the town of El Tunco.

Located on the Pacific coast, El Tunco, El Salvador, is a great getaway in the middle of winter. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging in the high 80s. January is one of the best times to visit El Tunco because it’s the middle of the dry season, so the chance of a downpour is minimal.

The best things to see and do in El Tunco involve enjoying its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming and surfing. You can also sunbathe but some of the beach areas are a bit pebbly, especially right after high tide.

If you want a chill vibe, you can take some yoga classes and relax in a beach hammock. Or if you’re up for some adventure, you can explore the beach caves (low tide only) or go waterfall hiking.

There are also a number of restaurants and bars in the town. The best thing to eat in El Tunco is pupusas, the national food of El Salvador! These thick corn tortillas are filled with meat, cheese, and/or beans.

If you want to party 24/7, there are a number of party-focused hostels in town. If you want to get a good night’s sleep after going out but still be close to the action, stay at Eco del Mar Hotel.

El Tunco is easy to get to from the San Salvador airport. It’s just a short drive to the coast on well-paved highways. You can hire a driver in advance, rent a car, or just call an Uber at the airport.

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable vacation destination in January, El Tunco is definitely worth considering.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

22. Serbia

Saint Sava Temple in Belgrade, Serbia

Average temp: high 39, low 28
Fly into: Nikola Tesla International Airport, Belgrade

Serbia is the best place to vacation in January if you love Christmas and lengthened holiday seasons. As a country with Christian Orthodox as its major population, Serbia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. And on top of that, in addition to the New Year on January 1st, they also celebrate Serbian New Year based on the Julian calendar on the 15th. 

The best way to visit Serbia is to fly to Nikola Tesla International Airport in Belgrade, or you can easily travel by car from the neighboring countries in Balkan. 

Serbia is quite small, so you can easily travel from the north to the south of the country for a week or two. Depending on the location, there are many things to do in Serbia in January. From enjoying the nightlife scene in Belgrade to spending your winter wonderland in popular ski resorts like Zlatibor or Kopaonik, there is always something for everyone!

For accommodation, you can easily find budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in each city. If you have a little extra budget for your accommodation, take a chance to stay at the Moskva Hotel in the heart of Belgrade. One of the most important landmarks in Serbia, the hotel has become a cultural heritage in the capital city since 1968. 

Recommended by Marya of The BeauTraveler

23. Philippines

Stunning El Nido, Palawan

Average temp: high 86, low 74
Fly into: El Nido Lio Airport, Palawan / Puerto Princesa International Airport, Puerto Princesa

With the dry season in full swing, the Philippines is one of the best places to visit in January for sun. You can expect the weather to be hot and humid, yet there will always be a beach nearby when you feel the need to cool off.

One of the best places to visit is the island of Palawan, which has been voted to be “the most beautiful island in the world” multiple times by Travel + Leisure’s Best of Awards. 

Once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. In the northern part of the Palawan near El Nido you’ll find beautiful islands, turquoise-blue lagoons, and jagged limestone cliffs. Thus, island hopping is one of the best things to do in Palawan!

If you don’t want to take the detour through Puerto Princesa – the capital of Palawan – you can fly to El Nido directly via Airswift from Manila. Some of the best places to stay in El Nido are Frendz Hostel and Blue Mango. 

If you’re adventurous, you can also venture out to other places on the island, like San Vicente and Port Barton. San Vicente is known for its 14-kilometer-long beach, whereas Port Barton is a small, laid-back town attracting travelers from all over the world. From here, you can hike through the jungle to get to low-key beaches and even a picturesque waterfall, kayak around the bay, or go snorkeling for sea turtles.  

As you can see, no matter where you go in Palawan, you can’t go wrong! You’ll have a wonderful vacation, perfect for a January getaway!

Recommended by Lena of Not Another Backpacker

24.

Jamaica (another favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Stunning Caribbean water near Negril, Jamaica😍

Average temp: high 83, low 74
Fly into: Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

One of the best beach vacations in January is Jamaica. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea, the hurricane season is over and the rush of holiday travelers is gone. However, January is one of the busiest months for visitors to the island, as many are trying to escape the winter back home.

Relax and rest in luxury at an all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Negril or Ocho Rios. From family friendly options to adults-only resorts, there’s something for everyone. Although, make sure to save up for it in advance, as January has some of the highest prices.

Venture off the resort on a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls, ziplining, bamboo rafting or take a sunset cruise, amongst many others. Or, rent a car and explore for yourself. Just be sure to ask your hotel which nearby areas to avoid, as there is some gang crime in Jamaica. And definitely get back before dark.

Whether you’re looking to sit on the beach for a week or soak in the amazing Jamaican food and culture, you’ll love a trip to this tropical paradise!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

25. Morocco

Essaouira, Morocco (perfect January getaway)

Average temp: high 66, low 45
Fly into: Marrakesh Menara Airport, Marrakesh

January might just be the best time of year for a trip to Morocco. Avoid the hot sticky summer, avoid the busy season and make the most of the moderate temperatures in Morocco during winter. 

Marrakech, Essaouira and the Sahara Desert are just some of the destinations you’ll want to add to your Morocco itinerary.  

The beautiful chaos synonymous with Morocco is found right in the heart of the medinas of Marrakech.  And you can start your journey here with a flight into Marrakech Menara Airport. Book the Riad Tizwa in Marrakech for a stay to remember, wander Jemaa el-Fna Square in the early evening, shop in the labyrinth of souks and stroll through the Jardin Majorelle.  

But don’t forget to see what else Morocco has to offer in winter. Marrakech is the perfect base to arrange a Sahara Desert tour or a beach adventure to Essaouira. 

Book a visit to Merzouga or M’hamid, to see the rolling sand dunes of the Sahara. And on your way include a visit to Ouarzazate to admire the incredible kasbahs of this region. The Kasbah Aït Benhaddou is possibly the most magnificent, made famous by the many movies filmed here.  

And finally, don’t miss a couple of days stay in Essaouira to finish your Moroccan adventure. This beach destination is a great little medina town that impresses all. Book a beautiful riad for a true Moroccan experience, ride horses on the beach, walk the ramparts and book a surf. 

Morocco vacation in January is always a good idea! 

Recommended by Sharon of My Free Range Family

Best countries to visit in January – continued

In the final stretch of this epic list! A few more fun cities and some of the best beach vacations in January yet, let’s wrap up this list with a bang!💥

26.

Sweden

Stockholm, Sweden, perfect for a January getaway

Average temp: high 33, low 26
Fly into: Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Stockholm-Arlanda

If you’re looking for a vacation in January, then the beautiful country of Sweden is a fantastic option! With spectacular cities, unspoiled forests, and breathtaking lakes, it’s no surprise that over 7.5 million people visit every year. 

Sweden will take your breath away no matter what time of year you visit, but there’s something special about visiting in January! 

During this time of year, the ground is often covered in snow and temperatures will be well below freezing, although that’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a hot chocolate and a Fika!

Sweden is one of the best places to visit in January to extend that ‘festive feeling’ as many of the winter palaces might still be running, especially earlier in the month. 

Sweden’s largest airport is Stockholm Arlanda which is just 39 km (24 miles) from the capital city.  This often means Stockholm is the first port of call, and you’ll find tons of fascinating things to do here – especially in January! 

First of all, you’ll have plenty of ice skating opportunities but the main spot to visit is Kungsträdgården! Then, you can head to Hammarbybacken if you’re looking to ski or head out on a winter cruise of the archipelago! 

If you’re staying in the capital, there’s no shortage of accommodation options but one of the best hotels in the city is Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel.

Other fantastic places to visit in Sweden during January include Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park, Gothenburg, and Salen. 

Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling through Sweden during this time of year, you’ll need plenty of layers. You’ll also want to indulge in a warm drink at every opportunity and fill your belly with delicious Swedish meatballs!

Recommended by Jack & Abbie of A Couples Calling

27.

Grenada (another awesome contender for best place to vacation in January)

Gorgeous beaches in Grenada, Caribbean

Average temp: high 86, low 74
Fly into: Maurice Bishop International Airport, Grenada

The island of Grenada in the Caribbean is one of the best islands to visit in January. Located at the southern end of the chain of Caribbean islands, Grenada is still rooted deeply in culture and nature to experience, without a whole lot of big chain influences.

January is an amazing time to visit, as the temperature is roughly 86 degrees year round during the day, and the water stays nice and warm too! It’s the perfect getaway from the winter cold to enjoy warm water, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, a tropical climate and Caribbean culture.

The easiest way to get to Grenada is by flying into Maurice Bishop International Airport. Once you arrive, you can either grab a taxi (they look like small buses) or make your way to a shuttle if your accommodation offers transportation.

There’s a huge range of accommodation options, including many homestay options, more casual resorts, all the way to luxury all inclusives. My recommendation for an eco-friendly boutique hotel is the True Blue Bay Resort, while if you’re looking for something all inclusive, Spice Island Beach Resort.

January does fall within Grenada’s high season, so be prepared for more crowds than if you went during the rainy season (summer months). Definitely visit one of Grenada’s Best Beaches while there, and try to take an island wide guided tour to experience waterfalls, sulphur springs, cocoa farms, local distilleries or more!

You’ll want to stay in Grenada at least a week to experience all there is to see and do! Grenada is one of the best countries to visit in January. It’s an amazing destination with the welcoming and vibrant Caribbean culture that you don’t want to miss!

Recommended by Taylor of Tea N’ Sea Travel

28.

South Africa

Table Mountain, South Africa

Average temp: high 83, low 63
Fly into: Cape Town International Airport, Cape Town

South Africa is one of the best countries in the world for a January vacation. It’s the ideal spot to take a breath and enjoy life.

January in South Africa sees the weather at its best, particularly in the western regions. Summer below the equator is in full swing, and the air is warm and dry.

However you dream of spending your time, this sizable country is teeming with great adventures and awe-inspiring beauty just for you! Come to South Africa to see the iconic wildlife, enjoy the most picturesque road trips of your life, or explore its astounding urban highlights. 

Or try a shark-cage dive off the coast! Whichever activity you choose, your options are countless. 

If this abundance of activities doesn’t earn South Africa a vote for the best countries to visit in January, maybe this will: all of these remarkable activities are accessible from the spectacular city of Cape Town. It’s the ultimate base for your South African vacation.

January in Cape Town provides you with the opportunity to attend the Kaapse Klopse. This colorful January 2nd street festival will give you stories to tell! You can also visit famous local treasures such as Table Mountain, the V & A Waterfront, and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, right in Cape Town. 

The Cape Town International Airport is just 20 km from the city centre, and services airlines that connect with all parts of the world. 

Finding the best home away from home for you is as easy as amazing vacation rental options. How does a seaview apartment or a country cottage sound? It’s all waiting for you!

Recommended by DJ of Introvert with Itchy Feet

29. England

Pulteney Bridge River Avon in Bath, England

Average temp: high 45, low 35 (varies by region)
Fly into: London Heathrow Airport, London

England is an underrated country to visit in January. It’s the perfect mix of winter wonderland and mild temperatures, depending on where you visit.

For example, Oxford and Birmingham typically see dustings of snow throughout January. You may even find enough snow a few days a year to build a small snowman!

But places like Brighton Beach will remain snow-less. There are even days London will be as sunny as in summer!

The mild temperatures attract visitors who are looking to escape the freezing cold of Canada or Scandinavia, but don’t want to pay the inflated prices of a beach vacation. Temperatures average 5C (41F).

Don’t forget to pack a light coat and some waterproof boots, as it can drizzle throughout January.

Luckily, the best things to do in the UK aren’t summer-based.

Having high tea in Covent Garden, touring Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford upon Avon, listening to live music at a pub, and enjoying British stand-up at local comedy houses are all great indoor activities to take advantage of.

There are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying everything the country has to offer. For starters, take advantage of the many free museums and galleries.

You can also find cheap eats by avoiding tourist traps and sticking to local pubs. And finally, take advantage of the many cheap or free walking tours available in most cities.

The UK is easily accessible from anywhere in the world.

Major airports include London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Stanstead is another option, but then you’ll need to take a long train journey. 

To get around, take trains for cheap day trips from London to places like Bath and Oxford.

Recommended by Nina of Nina Out and About

30. India (an underrated one on this guide for warm vacations in January)

Bangalore Palace in southern India

Average temp: high 83, low 60 (varies by region)
Fly into: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi / Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, Bengaluru

While India may be on your travel bucket list, January is also a great time to cross it off!

January in India means it’s dry season, so you don’t need to worry about rain like you do during monsoon season. While India is a large country, narrowing down what you want to see and do will help determine what weather you’ll face and where to fly into.

The northern part of India is home to the famous Taj Mahal. Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal can be visited via day trip from Delhi. One of the new 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal’s grand and impressive architecture is stunning in real life!

In southern India, the popular towns of Bengaluru (aka Bangalore) is a busy city with so many things to do. Bangalore is famous for the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the Bengaluru Palace, Bull Temple and Cuban Park. Nearby Mysuru (aka Mysore) is a great day trip or weekend getaway from Bangalore. Be sure to watch the lighting of the Mysore Palace – stunning!

If you’re looking for a beach destination in India, Goa is the place to be. With gentle waves, swaying palm trees and beautiful, relaxing hotels, Goa is a great spot to relax and unwind in India. It’s truly a great destination, and one of the best countries to visit in January.

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

31. The Gambia

Get ready for the beach at The Gambia

Average temp: high 91, low 65
Fly into: Banjul International Airport, Banjul

Perched on the west coast of Africa is a small but charming country known as The Gambia. The Gambia is renowned for its lengthy swathes of golden sand beaches, freshly caught fish and smiling locals.

The Gambia has 2 distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The dry season runs from November to May and is the best time to visit. The temperature at this time of year is pleasant – roughly 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) – and you can expect bright sunshine on most days.

January is also a great time of year to visit due to the country’s annual Banjul Demba Cultural Festival. Here, you’ll witness traditional music and dance performances in the country’s capital city.

The Gambia is a very small country and so only houses one international airport: Banjul International Airport.

Most visitors to The Gambia choose to base themselves in Serrekunda, a vibrant town set behind a glorious stretch of beach, fringed by lazy palm trees.

Serrekunda is a mere 30 minute drive from the airport. It’s easy to grab a taxi from the airport, or you can pre-arrange a taxi with your hotel or via a taxi company beforehand.

Alternatively, you can hire a car in The Gambia. I’d personally recommend pre-booking a taxi from a reputable company as some taxis at the airport are in questionable condition.

There are numerous hotels in Serrekunda for you to choose from but a personal favourite of mine is Luigi’s Complex. It has a very friendly and laid-back vibe and is only a short walk from the beach.

Recommended by Ella of Ella McKendrick

32. New Zealand (by far one of the best countries to visit in January)

Canyoning in the Coromandel in New Zealand

Average temp: high 77, low 53 (varies by region)
Fly into: Auckland International Airport, Auckland

A bucket-list destination for many, New Zealand is at the top of its game in January. This summer month brings some of the warmest temperatures in the country, delighting visitors that enjoy sunny days at the beach.

New Zealand is a surprisingly large country – a fact that many people underestimate when planning a vacation. The amount of time you have will affect the places you are able to visit, however, these are some amazing summer spots in Aotearoa.

If you’re able to include them in your itinerary, you’ll be sure to come away happy. After all, New Zealand is one of the best countries to visit in January!

Paihia is located in the Bay of Islands, and though it is beautiful at any time of year, it’s particularly vibrant during the summer season. Known for its stunning beaches, uninhabited islands, settled weather and marine life, this is a must-see in January. Kerikeri is the closest airport to Paihia, but many choose to fly into Auckland and drive up.

Moving down the North Island, the Coromandel Peninsula is another summer-time favourite for locals and visitors alike. Significant highlights include Hot Water Beach (where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand), Cathedral Cove and New Chums Beach, all of which are best enjoyed in the warmth of the summer season. Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga airports all service this region.

Finally, a summertime trip to Fiordland should be on your radar. Though this area experiences a lot of rain right throughout the year, this will be your best chance at seeing it on a nice day.

When the weather is still, the mirror reflection of Milford Sound on the water really is incomparable. Queenstown is the closest airport to Milford Sound, though many choose to stay in Te Anau.

Haere mai and welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Recommended by Sarah of New Zealand Travel Tips

33. Malta

Exploring Malta in January

Average temp: high 60, low 49
Fly into: Malta International Airport, Malta

One of the best places to visit in January for sun is the European island of Malta. Actually, Malta is made up of 3 islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

Compared to other European countries, Malta in winter is usually very sunny and in January temperatures can go up to 20 degrees Celsius which on a sunny day feels very pleasant.

One of the best things about going in January is that fewer tourists venture to the island which is mainly considered a summer destination. But what most people fail to realize is that it is the best time for going hiking and exploring the ancient towns.

Malta has a long history, and if you get rainy or windy days it’s perfect to explore underground where you can walk through the World War Two Shelters or discover the old catacombs in Rabat. On the other hand, if the weather is nice, you can easily go for a quick dip in the crystal-clear water.

There are numerous flights connecting Malta with the rest of Europe. In addition, you can take the boat directly from Sicily in Italy.

Getting around Malta by bus is easy, it costs 1. 50 Euros for a ticket that lasts you for 2 hours (including bus changes.) On top of that, they have tap and pay so there is no need for cash.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

34. Turks and Caicos (another favorite on this list for best beach vacations in January)

Bight Beach in Turks and Caicos

Average temp: high 82, low 74
Fly into: Providenciales International Airport, Turks & Caicos Islands

Last but certainly not least is the dreamy island chain of Turks and Caicos. Definitely worthy of a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January, Turks and Caicos has unbelievable white sand beaches with the most turquoise water you’ll ever see.

A beach destination with the right mix of good food and water activities, Turks and Caicos is a laid-back island chain where the term ‘island time’ could have been created.

The whimsical nature of the island is perfect for a January getaway when all that matters is what time you should re-apply your sunblock. (By the way, be sure to use ocean-safe sunblock at all times to protect marine life.)

Staying on the main island of Providenciales doesn’t have to break the bank, either. It’s possible to do Turks and Caicos on a budget, without sacrificing a good time on the island chain.

While there, be sure to visit the best beaches on Turks and Caicos. Grace Bay Beach is the most popular, but moving away from the busy tourist spot will provide you with amazing views where you *might* just be the only one there.

Enjoy a dreamy island vacation in Turks and Caicos!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Best countries to visit in January

Picturesque beach in Aruba (#4)

Whew! What a list! From the best beach vacations in January to frozen winter wonderlands, this was a fun guide to put together. So….are you ready to book your flights yet?

Let’s review that list one more time, in a more succinct fashion….

Best places to vacation in January

1. Costa Rica
2. Austria
3. Colombia
4. Aruba
5. Iceland
6. Thailand
7. France
8. Antigua
9. Mexico
10. Spain
11. Belize
12. Maldives
13. Singapore
14. Switzerland
15. Guatemala
16. Canada
17. Australia
18. UAE
19. Portugal
20. USA
21. El Salvador
22. Serbia
23. Philippines
24. Jamaica
25. Morocco
26. Sweden
27. Grenada
28. South Africa
29. England
30. India
31. The Gambia
32. New Zealand
33. Malta
34. Turks and Caicos

Related content to read next:
30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations USA (Say Goodbye to the Cold)
35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Destinations You Need to See
28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See
32 Awe-Inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

Find this post helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

16 BEST Winter Sun Destinations in Europe & Nearby!

This post may contain affiliate links. I will receive a small commission if you use these links.

Winter Sun in Europe is hard to come by and you have to go to the right place!

These Winter Sun destinations in Europe I’ve noted below, along with slightly further afar options in North Africa and the Middle East (most of which are still short-haul flights!) will help you get on holiday and get some well-needed sunshine in the colder months of December and January,

Whether that’s for an all-inclusive winter sun holiday, or a winter sun city break in Europe!

Winter Sun in Europe

Keep reading for where to find Winter Sun in Europe!

A few things to consider about Winter Sun in Europe:

Before we get into the post about the best places for winter sun in Europe… there are a few things you have to be aware of.

Guaranteed Winter Sun?

I went on holiday in December to Antalya in Southern Turkey, and although it was sunny for half the trip and it was much nicer than the UK and many other parts of Europe, it wasn’t the best and I was a little disappointed and had hoped for nicer weather in Antalya in Winter!

This is a great example of not getting guaranteed winter sun in Europe because the weather is very temperamental in winter in Europe.

That’s also why I’ve included extra destinations in North Africa and the Middle East, most of which require a short-haul flight still, because you are going to have more guaranteed winter sun as you go further East and South.

Heated Swimming Pool

Something that was an absolute must for us on our winter sun holiday in Europe was a heated swimming pool and once we felt the cold swimming pool which was freezing compared to the heated pool at our hotel, we were so glad we got this!

We found it surprisingly hard to find hotels in Europe with heated pools and even harder to find Airbnb Villa’s in Europe with heated pools. But, I do recommend this as a MUST if you want a summer holiday type holiday and especially if you have children.

Most of our pool in Antalya was cold but a section was heated which was a saviour in December!

Europe Winter Sun Temperatures in December & January

Here’s a quick look at the average temperatures for all of the below best winter sun destinations in Europe, but be sure to keep reading to get more information on these winter sun destinations, why you should go, and what you can do there!

Best Places For Winter Sun in Europe

1.

Canary Islands, Spain

There’s no doubt about it really, the BEST destination in Europe for winter sun are the Spanish Canary Islands thanks to their surprisingly Southern location to the side of Africa!

Out of all the islands, guide to the Canary Islands says that Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the hottest Canary Islands in Winter so be sure to look into these specifically if you are looking for the best temperature for sunbathing and relaxing by the pool.

Talking of pools, if you are going for an all-inclusive holiday where you want to relax in the hotel mainly, be sure to look for a hotel with a heated pool as if it’s not heated, it will probably be quite cold and off-putting.

Search for the best hotels in the Canary Islands here!

The Canary Islands are a big hit with people who want an all-inclusive, lay by the pool holiday, but they offer so much more than this too!

If you like adventure and the outdoors, these islands have great hiking. Here are some incredibly impressive hikes in Gran Canaria so don’t let the usual stereotype of the Canary Islands put you off.

The Canary Islands are definitely your best best for Winter Sun in Europe!

2. Ibiza, Spain

Thankfully, we can rely on Spain for some good European winter sun and although temperatures drop hugely compared to the summer, many places in Spain are still very pleasant to visit weather-wise, teamed with being much quieter and enjoyable in the off-season than high-season, which is a good reason to go to Ibiza in winter.

So many people love Ibiza and despite its party name, just like the Canary Islands, there is so much more to do there than we might expect. There’s a lot of history, great places to eat, and getting out into nature is one of the best things.

I really love this article on Ibiza in the winter, which explains why hiking in winter is the best time and gives plenty of examples of cafes and restaurants on the island that are still open and haven’t shut for winter.

Have you thought of hiking in Ibiza in winter?

3. Lagos, Portugal

Lagos which is part of the popular Algarve is definitely known for being a top summer destination, but it’s definitely one of the closest and best winter sun destinations in Europe to mainland Europe.

Lagos is a great place to base yourself in the Algarve in Winter, if you hire a car you can do trips along the coast, but it’s also a really nice town with a lovely community of locals and expats who also stay all year round.

So if you’re looking for a winter sun holiday with a bit of culture and day trips rather than an all-inclusive, Lagos is a great place to visit.

It’s not going to be hot and the temperature drops at night, will be one of the warmest towns in Europe in winter and one that still has a good buzz around it.

Visit the wild coastline of Portugal for a winter sun holiday!

4. Sardinia, Italy

For the best winter destinations in Europe, we need to look for the islands and the Mediterranean! I don’t know about you, but I don’t often think of Italy as a country with islands, but Sardinia is a rather large island in the Med to the West of mainland Italy and it’s a delight to visit all year round!

Strictly Sardinia gives 13 amazing reasons to visit in winter including the fact that it is mostly sunny in the winter despite the cooler temperatures.

In the summer Sardinia is a hot spot for European tourists which increases prices and makes the island very busy. Low season in Sardinia gives you the chance to explore the island’s footpaths, beaches, cites, and archaeological sites without the crowds and for a cheaper price.

So if Sardinia is on your list to visit in Europe, and it is on many peoples, definitely consider Sardinia in winter for an alternative winter sun holiday in Europe.

Sardina in Italy is a great European winter sun destination!

5. Malta

Between Italy and North Africa in the Mediterranean Sea sits the small island of Malta. Malta is known for its diving and coastlines and gets really busy in the summer.

Whilst visiting Malta in winter won’t give you the same experience as in summer, you can visit the island in a different way, like a winter-sun-city-break type way!

Valletta is the island’s capital city, it’s a small one but it’s a great base in winter and from what I’ve seen on Skyscanner, flights there Valletta can be really cheap in the off-season!

Hire a car or use the good public transport to visit the many attractions in Malta including a huge number of temples and historical sites, go hiking, climbing and still visit popular places like the fishing village.

The Maltese Culture is incredibly rich which Here to Travel says you can sense a lot more in winter, than summer.

The weather will be cooler, especially at night but if you’re visiting from Northern Europe it’s likely to be much more pleasant than there and more pleasant than many other winter city breaks in Europe at this time.

Malta is one of the best winter sun destinations in Europe!

6. Cyprus

Cyprus has a mild Mediterranean winter which is very appealing when coming from Northern Europe and definitely one of the warmer winter destinations in Europe.

There are many areas in Cyrpus to stay in, depending on whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive hotel-based winter holiday or if you want to feel local life and get out and explore the history and culture of Cyprus.

If you’re looking for an earlier winter holiday in November for example, Cyprus is a great destination as temperatures are much warmer still.

Winter in Cyprus gives you chance to get some winter sun in Europe!

7.

Corfu, Greece

Greece is a definite good option for winter sun holidays in Europe. However, you do need to pick Greek Islands that rely on tourism infrastructure and students otherwise you might end up on an island that closes down for the winter!

Islands like Crete and Corfu are the best for Greek islands to visit in the winter for their temperature and off-season facilities.

When searching for the hottest Greek Island in winter, Crete came up as the most suggested with Corfu afterward, however, like with everywhere on this list, sunshine isn’t guaranteed and colder weather is likely so I recommend Corfu as Corfu Town offers visitors a small city break type holiday with more things to do in winter other than the beaches.

Base yourself in Corfu Town for a city break and to see more of this amazing Greek Island!

8. Antalya, Turkey

I recently went to Antalya in Winter and although it wasn’t quite as warm as I expected and we had a day of non-stop rain because of a storm, it was a good winter holiday destination within Europe.

Antalya has a large population so a lot of restaurants and indoor activities are still open. We went to the Land of Legends Theme Park which is one of the biggest family attractions in Antalya, some areas like the Aquapark were closed but the Theme Park was open and hugely benefited from no queues.

We decided to go all-inclusive in Antalya which was a great option, we chose Rixos Downtown Hotel as it has a heated pool and this really made our winter holiday to Turkey enjoyable and I really recommend the hotel.

Antalya is one of the best winter breaks in Europe!

Now I’ve gone through the hottest countries in Europe in January and December for a winter sun holiday. I’m going to go into some options very close to Europe, many of which are still a short-haul flight.

9. Essaouria, Morocco

Essaouria on the coast of Morocco is a very popular winter destination.

Essaouria is known as the Windy City and this is especially true in winter, and although nighttime temperatures drop quite a lot, daytime temperatures in Essaouria can be very mild and like the Spring in the UK.

Sometimes we all need is some blue sky when we want to escape the depths of the cold in the UK and Northern Europe, even if we are in a coat and jumper, which is what Essaouria is likely to give you too.

You can choose to stay in Essaouria city in the old Medina which is great for exploring whilst stopping regularly to shop and drink Moroccan Mint Tea,

Or you could look into the huge about of villa’s near Essaouria and further along the coast for a Moroccan villa holiday using Essaouria Airport to fly in and out which is an option we nearly did for our winter holiday in Europe.

My Related Posts: A Relaxed Essaouira Itinerary for 2 Days in Essaouira Morocco! & 8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Essaouira Morocco!

Essaouira is right on the coast but has a lovely Medina and old town to visit.

10. Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh is on most people’s bucket list and it’s so easy and quick to fly there from the UK and Northern Europe despite being in North Africa.

Marrakesh offers a few types of holidays, you can stay in the old part of the city and have a buzzing city break, you can stay in a fancy 5* hotel resort, or you can hire a villa near to the city and relax on your own with a pool, the Moroccan sun and even pay for someone to cook meals for you, which is what we very nearly did.

The best thing about visiting Marrakesh in winter is that the tourist crowds are much less in the city which makes it easier to navigate the small, old lanes. And the amazing hotels on offer are cheaper.

There is a huge amount of villa’s in and around Marrakesh on Vrbo here which will truly give you a summer holiday feel, even in winter in Morocco. Just be mindful that not all pools are heated and be sure to check with the owner before you book if that’s important to you.

Marrakesh is a great alternate winter sun holiday in Europe.

11. Hurghada, Egypt

Carrying on in North Africa, Egypt is a brilliant destination for the best places to go for the Winter sun, because of the temperatures in December and January and notably higher than the rest of Europe at highs of 24c.

Airlines like TUI, Thomas Cook, and EasyJet fly from the UK to Egypt so it’s really not that far and worth the extra hour of flying out of Europe for warmer temperatures I think.

Hurghada is a coastal beach town along the Red Sea and because of its amazing coral reefs it’s very popular for diving, and in December you should be able to get in the water ok.

What I love about Hurghada is that it offers all-inclusive holiday hotels, the same as Sharm-El-Sheikh does which I talk about below,

But if you feel like that’s not the type of holiday for you, Hurghada is a city with lots of things to do and a lot of history and culture too, like the Old Bazaar and big Mosques, as well as upscale restaurants and shopping.

You can also see a lot more of Egypt from Hurghada by going on Hurghada day trips or leaving for 2 nights to visit Cairo or Luxor.

Take an all-inclusive winter sun holiday in Hurghada and explore local areas at the same time!

12. Sharm-El-Sheikh, Egypt

Sharm-El-Sheikh is one of the most popular destinations in and around Europe known for it’s big all-inclusive hotels so if you are looking for a few days on a sun lounger by the pool in Winter, this is a great option for you!

The best time of year to go to Sharm-El-Sheikh is in Spring or Autumn anyway, not summer because of the incredibly high temperature in Summer, which means that winter is definitely not a bad option!

Although temperatures in winter in Sharm will not be super hot and will cool down at night, you will still be able to do a lot of the usual activities like diving, going on a desert safari, sunbathing in your hotel, shop and eat out.

Egypt in winter doesn’t disappoint and many people opt to go to Sharm-el-Sheikh instead of a Europe holiday in Winter.

13. Aqaba, Jordan

Jordan is a fantastic and hugely underrated, and very safe country to visit, and Aqaba located on the Red Sea is a brilliant place to go in winter and is the warmest place in Jordan in winter.

Like many holiday destinations in Egypt, Aqaba in Jordan is also known for its incredible diving in the Red Sea.

Temperatures do not drop much lower than 20c in Aqaba in winter and airlines like EasyJet fly there direct from the UK.

When visiting Aqaba in the winter you can go diving and enjoy the beaches, take a Red Sea cruise, explore historic areas like Aqaba Fort and Souk, and if you want, you can use Aqaba as a base to travel North to the famous ancient city of Petra and the incredible Wadi Rum Desert.

Although Petra and the Wadi Rum Desert will be much cooler and probably quite cold in winter. I think it’s worth leaving the warmer temperatures of Aqaba to see them for a few days.

If you want a winter destination you can go diving in, look into Aqaba in Jordan!

Lastly, we’re going into some Middle Eastern and Gulf Destinations because THIS is where the best weather is during the winter months of November, December, January and February and where you are very likely to get guaranteed winter sun!

Flights here are a bit further and more expensive when flying from Europe but, it’s worth it and these destinations are best to visit in Winter, Spring and Autumn as Summertime gets unbearably hot!

14. Dubai, UAE

Of course, Dubai is a brilliant holiday destination in winter. Although it is a long-haul flight taking longer and costing more, in return, you’ll get pretty much-guaranteed sunshine, blue skies, warm weather and all activities available.

In Dubai, you can choose to stay in an all-inclusive hotel with a beach and sunbathe and swim until your heart is content, or you can stay in a hotel and take the days and evenings out to explore Dubai’s shopping malls, water parks, adventure activities like a Desert Safari and enjoy the amazing restaurants.

Related Post: 10 Things To Do in Dubai on a Girls Trip to Dubai!

Dubai is one of the most popular winter sun holiday destinations!

15. Abu Dhabi, UAE

If you’ve been to Dubai already and or you want to visit the UAE but do something different, visiting Abu Dhabi is a great option!

Abu Dhabi has a surprisingly good amount of activities for families and children such as Yas Island and Ferrari World. It also has all of the modern aspects of Dubai as well as plenty of all-inclusive hotels and beach resorts but it does have a more local charm and great historical monuments to visit making it into more of a city break holiday.

Here in Abu Dhabi you can go kayaking, visit one of the most impressive mosques in the world the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, go to The Louvre, go on a Desert Safari, stay in a glamping tent on the beach, and much more!

All whilst benefitting from great weather with pretty much guaranteed blue skies, warm temperatures in the day, and a slightly cooler more comfortable temperature at night.

Related Post: 40 AMAZING Things To Do in Abu Dhabi!

Get some culture and some sun in Abu Dhabi on a winter holiday!

16. Doha, Qatar

If you have been to Dubai and you want a new winter sun holiday destination, or you don’t fancy the hype of places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, have you thought about Doha City in the country of Qatar??

Doha may surprise you in that it offers so many huge hotels right on the beach and water where you can relax in the sun, some beaches also feature women’s only areas if this is a concern for you.

However as well as chilling by the pool and on the beach, there are lots of things to do in Doha and with the World Cup being in Qatar in the winter of 2022, there is now even more tourism infrastructure.

Think, Middle Eastern Souqs, Mosques, Museums, Cultural Villages… this is where you’ll get a beautiful taste of the Middle East with beautiful weather where you can choose from a Museum or the Beach!

Doha is a great place for a city break and beach break in winter!

I hope these places for Winter Sun in Europe and nearby have helped give you an idea of where to go!

What’s the best warm destinations in Europe in the winter?

by
@jammingsloth
7yr 7yr
 | 33 comments

Planning ahead for the winter. I’ll be in Spain in the Fall and want to go someplace warm for the winter in or near Europe, but not Schengen. Was first thinking Cape Town, but the internet is slow and it is very far. Was also thinking:
Israel – but airbnb listings are very pricey.
Morocco?
Turkey – maybe a little chilly.

Any other suggestions?

👍

13k

👎

@seifip
3yr 3yr

I’m a big fan of Lisbon in the winter… the weather is just perfect (~15-20), the city is beautiful, food delicious, prices very reasonable by European standards, and Portugal has one of the more vibrant startup communities in Europe.

@adrienbetweets
4yr 4yr

You might want to consider Dahab (Egypt). Although not in Europe, it’s a rather short & cheap flight away.

Dahab is a watersport heaven (freediving (apnea), scuba diving, kite surfing, wind surfing, you name it) and has an incredibly low cost of living. Especially during the low season, which is exactly during the European winter (December to March).

I wrote more in-depth about Dahab in the thread below on NomadList called “Dahab watersport heaven – best cafes to work from?”.

👍

21

👎

@db8871
7yr 7yr

Do not forget about French Guiana. Technically part of Europe but not Schengen. Very easy entry for EU people, US people get stamp but tough for south americans.

Not easy to get there as the only good airline connection is from Paris, 2-3 stopovers from the US and expensive.

Dry season is August to December; rainy season is December and January and April to July. Hot all year round, with cooler nights. Average temperature is 27C/85F.

👍

21

👎

👍

27

👎

@jakeberger
7yr 7yr

It’s still possible to be in Schengen!

I have the 90-day Schengen restriction as well (U. S. citizen). Got a 90-day extension in Spain without having to leave the country. Lived in Almería, which is 1 of 3 places in Europe with mild and dry winters. (Hot and dry summers as well.)

The locals have a saying, “There are 2 seasons in Almería – beach season and not-beach season.”

I shared a 3-bedroom apartment 100m from the beach with a balcony and a 10-min walk to the center for 165 EUR/mo (utilities extra).

Right on the coast. Mostly sunny and rains about once a month. Coldest it got was 10C/50F.

Gorgeous sunsets and a 7km promenade for walking, jogging, exercising.

Access to secluded beaches…

It seems like a dream. Honestly though, this place isn’t for everyone. Almería has a lot of strong characteristics that make it quirky to live there. It’s a very chill environment, through-and-through – a lot of the locals live a ‘mañana lifestyle’. There’s also a lot of Erasmus students adding to the beach + party vibe. Wake up late, café, beach, sunset, party. Almería is a bit isolated on the very SE tip of Spain so very few locals leave, and only speak Spanish.

Definitely a unique experience. And for me, I’d go back because it’s well worth the beaches and sun.

Like I said, this is not a ‘work hard, play hard’ city – it’s very much a ‘relax to the max’. If you can avoid temptations and you’re good at keeping a strict schedule, it’s a GREAT place to wake up and exercise, work for 5 hours, take an hour break to eat and cool off in the sea, work a bit more, then have your free time.

If anyone’s interested in how I did this – get a Schengen extension in Spain – I can go into extensive detail. I don’t recommend going in blind like I did.

👍

27

👎

@oskar
7yr 7yr

@JakeBerger Sure please tell us how you got the schengen extension.
Thanks!

👍

13

👎

@lucha54
7yr 7yr

I thought it was cold in Turkey in winter? I’m talking Dec/Jan/Feb. My future plan is late spring/summer and/or summer/fall in EU (I have French passport) and then maybe winters in Asia or elsewhere. But no need to go elsewhere if I can find a warm enough place! (my standards for decent winter, being from California, are in the 8-18º range).

My friend is in Istanbul now and says it’s often snowing… Morocco too I checked weather averages for this time of year and wasn’t pleased. Will look in to Madeira or Canarias for a possible winter in my future, although I’m really not an island/beach type.

Any other parts of Turkey that are immune to below 8º temps (on average of course)? What about the Greek islands? Must be darn cheap in winter with low season…

👍

13

👎

@wanderingdev
7yr 7yr

turkey is a large country and istanbul is in the far north. where I was, it was high teens/low 20s in december. this week it is mid to high teens.

@ani_goes_tweet
7yr 7yr

I’m in Gran Canaria, and daytime temps are usually +20 throughout the winter. I’ve been wearing shorts and sandals since I first arrived on 28 November. While there was no need for a jacket in the evenings last month (December), it’s been a bit cooler at night so far this January, and while I’m still comfy in my shorts and sandals, at night I want a light jacket.

👍

16

👎

@dvc
7yr 7yr

@bisonravi Independent of paid extensions–which I wasn’t aware of, either–citizens of a number of countries have the ability to extend their stays in various European countries, usually due to bilateral agreements predating the Schengen Treaty. Often, this means an additional 90 days on top of the 90-day Schengen stay, but sometimes (e. g. US citizens in Poland) you can stay more or less indefinitely. References are often hard to locate, but consular officials will provide more information when asked.

A bit more information for US citizens here: https://travel.stackexchange.com/questions/39649/us-citizen-90-180-schengen-stay-bilateral-agreements-w-poland-denmark-etc?s=1|0.8889. I spent a bit of time looking for a resource with an exhaustive list of such agreements, but wasn’t able to find one.

👍

16

👎

👍

13

👎

@jammingsloth
7yr 7yr

I was looking into the option of Cyprus, but couldn’t find out whether I’d be overstaying Schengen. Apparently Portugal offers tourist visa extensions for up to 90 days. It costs around 100 euros. I’m in Barcelona for the next month and then I have an appointment in Portugal to get an extension. Hopefully all goes as planned!

👍

13

👎

@bavals
7yr 7yr

This is very interesting. Please post here to tell us how it goes. I’ve never heard of these Schengen “extensions,” but I can’t say that I properly investigated either.

👍

18

👎

@ali
7yr 7yr

Turkey is a reasonable choice. Cheap flights,cheap life costs, lots of coworking spaces and so on…

Plus Handsome Boys and Beautiful Girls

👍

18

👎

@adrienbetweets
7yr 7yr

+1 for Turkey, beautiful place, very nice people, quite developed country (good internet in cities), cheap accommodation/food, and probably quite warm in the winter.

@wanderingdev
7yr 7yr

I’m heading to turkey in a week. my apartment is 350 Euro a month in a 5* building and it’s in the low 20s and sunny. Works for me!

👍

13

👎

@adrienbetweets
7yr 7yr

350 euros per month for a 5* apartment in Turkey! That’s a great price.
Can I ask you the city where this is?

👍

13

👎

👍

14

👎

@wanderingdev
7yr 7yr

alanya. not the best choice if you are a party person but if you just need a place nearby that is semi-warm and inexpensive, it’s a solution.

👍

14

👎

👍

17

👎

@bavals
7yr 7yr

A quick note to Europeans oblivious to visas, etc: Spain, Portugal, Italy, etc are all inside the Schengen zone, so none of them work for those seeking to escape the 90-day restriction. The original question specified “not Schengen”. Therefore, Madeira, Canary Islands, etc do not quality.

However, does anyone have any experience with Cyprus (especially the Greek part)? It is part of EU but not of Schengen (not yet, anyway).

👍

17

👎

👍

13

👎

@sebastianhub
7yr 7yr

Canary Islands, no doubt. Is warm all year round, well connected to major European cities, quite cheap and plenty of nature and activities to do

👍

13

👎

👍

86

👎

@adrienbetweets
7yr 7yr

@jamminsloth oh I see, then it might be a good alternative, it’s super cheap to fly from Europe to Morocco, Algeria, and the likes. If you want a higher standard of life and faster internet, you might want to be in a bigger city. Morocco has a decent 3G network, and quite cheap (circa 10€ for 1GB internet on a pay as you go), but the coverage is not consistent across the country.
Another country you can consider: Cape Verde.
I went to Cape Verde for the first time in January this year. I had average expectations and was very surprised how great this place was for my holiday. Note that I was not working while there. Basically, it’s a country in the middle of the Atlantic, they speak Portuguese (a dialect of it), people are extremely nice and laid back, it has this Caribbean touch although it’s attached to Africa. It’s a world top spot for kite surfing. Many world competitors are actually from there or train there. You can also do surf, windsurf and more water sports. Hiking is also getting very popular in the islands of Santo Antao, this is a very green and mountainous island, not to be missed. Internet can be a problem though, the size of some of the islands limit their development (infrastructures, education, hospitals, and so on) but you can get 3G internet for circa 10€ for 1GB. Again, go to bigger cities for higher internet speeds (Mindello or Praia). I heard you can find Return tickets to Cape Verde from Europe (London, Paris, Madrid, Lisboa) from 400 euros if you are flexible. Another way is to go from canary island, by plane… Or by boat, for free as a crew member, it takes about 6 days of sailing, but you probably need experience to be taken on board, not sure. Go to Cape Verde, it’s awesome
I posted a couple of information regarding the different topics:
Cape Verde: travel between islands
Cape Verde: accommodation to expect?
Cape Verde: any safety alerts regarding hasslers, con men, thieves or muggers specific to this region?

👍

86

👎

👍

22

👎

@jammingsloth
7yr 7yr

@AdrienBe thanks. I would love to do the Canary islands for 3 months, but I’ll already be in Spain/Portugal for 3 months in the fall. What sort of visa are you talking about? Any idea how to make this work as a US citizen with Schengen restrictions?

👍

22

👎

👍

14

👎

@adrienbetweets
7yr 7yr

Regarding your questions!
What sort of visa are you talking about? I suppose you may need a visa when going to Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and the likes, I don’t know really.
Any idea how to make this work as a US citizen with Schengen restrictions? No sorry, I’m a EU citizen so my knowledge is very limited in this topic.

👍

14

👎

👍

21

👎

@adrienbetweets
7yr 7yr

Mind that Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia and the like are not part of Europe, and also have this kinda third world standards. You love it or hate it, then it’s your personality, your expectations, experiences, and so on.
Canary islands belong to Spain, so y they have much higher standards (and it’s probably simpler visa wise), the trade off is the cost of life that is higher (although still cheap). Ryanair flies to canary islands.

👍

21

👎

👍

32

👎

@gonzohall
7yr 7yr

Hello,

Please check Madeira Island, Funchal specially. Good internet, great food, good weather, cheap travels (lowcost from Portugal), amazing culture and good combination of sea and nature with a good city and services.

👍

32

👎

@flipchan
4yr 4yr

Where do i find an apartment at funchal?

@flipchan
4yr 4yr

How is apartment prices at funchal ?

👍

19

👎

@jammingsloth
7yr 7yr

@Nikolask7 Thanks for the suggestion! Any cities in particular that you can recommend for solid internet, nice vistas, and some culture/arts?

👍

19

👎

👍

45

👎

@matthiasezeitler
7yr 7yr

I would suggest Tunisia/Djerba.
Climate is mild and the mediterranean is warm enough for swimming in November.

Plus we run http://coworking.camp there this year, so you will be around a lot of other location independent entrepreneurs and nomads.

👍

45

👎

👍

25

👎

@jammingsloth
7yr 7yr

@MatthiasEZeitler I remember looking at your camp a couple weeks ago actually – looks like fun! Timing does not work for me however. I had looked at Djerba after looking at your camp, and don’t recall seeing many airbnbs. Any recommendations on how to book an accommodation? And how is the internet?

👍

25

👎

👍

51

👎

@matthiasezeitler
7yr 7yr

Mhm, if the timing doesnt work for you, then I am not sure if I would want to be there on your own. Outside the hotels the infrastructure is pretty basic and internet is a problem. We have made special arrangements to ensure high bandwith for our group, but otherwise internet is pretty slow. Also there is no digital nomad or startup community, so while our group is there there will be a lot of interesting connections and networking, but otherwise you are stuck with older retired couples escaping the winter.

So if November/December is not a good time for you, then maybe another destination is a better choice.

👍

51

👎

👍

65

👎

@nomadjim
7yr 7yr

The Canary Islands (70 miles West of Morrocco) are good. I spend a lot of time in Fuerteventura. Good weather, good internet connection, effectively a part of Spain so cheap roaming charges (using UK phone).

I did try Essaouira in Morocco for 2 weeks last year. Plus points are that it’s very cheap for accommodation and food, a lovely town and great for water sports. Bad points were roaming charges (£1.5min to receive calls!!!). The internet was passable for general use although not quite up to the standard I really needed (fairly high user). This may be down to bad wifi in my accommodation.

👍

65

👎

👍

48

👎

@hannahvictorius
7yr 7yr

Morocco has a good winter climate, as does Egypt. Morocco seems to attract more digital nomads, especially to the coastal town of Taghazhout. There are quite a few co-working places cropping up there now, and it’s pretty cheap. The average high during the winter months is 20 deg C and above.

One way flights from Agadir to the UK come it at about £35, which makes it easy to get back to Europe if you need to.

👍

48

👎

👍

33

👎

@jammingsloth
7yr 7yr

@hannahvictorius thanks for this! I have considered Morocco. How was the internet in Taghazhout? Where did you find a place to stay, airbnb?

👍

33

👎

👍

44

👎

@hannahvictorius
7yr 7yr

I haven’t actually been there yet, but plan to this side or Christmas or the other, after a friend had a good experience at Sun Desk. The internet there is good, but out an about it’s average I guess. Not super-fast, like parts of Europe. But for the work I need to do, it’s fine. Nomad List rates it an average of 5mbps. Hope that helps!

👍

44

👎

Air temperature in winter in Europe. Where to go in winter in Europe to relax? Where in Europe is warm in winter

15 November 2017, 15:52

Europeans can get out of winter into spring without leaving the continent or by going to neighboring islands. Southern Europe in January offers tourists quite warm weather – above 15 ° C.
PROturizm has compiled an overview of European countries, where it is warm in January as well. The warmest in winter are Spain, Portugal and Italy. The Mediterranean coast and the shores of the Atlantic Ocean are able to give tourists pleasant sunny weather in January with temperatures up to 20 ° C.

Where it’s warm in Spain in January

The southern coast of continental Spain belongs to Andalusia. The southernmost beaches of Costa del Sol (Spanish Sunny Beach) and Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) correspond to their names, even in winter there are very few cloudy or rainy days. In January, on the coast, the temperature is kept at around + 15-16 ° С. Many resort towns are suitable for both young people and couples. Amusement parks, oceanariums, dolphinariums and even penguinariums are open for tourists. A cable car will take you up to the mountains, from where a beautiful view of the sea and the surroundings opens. Resort life does not stop even in the winter months.

As temperatures drop at night, always check if the room is heated when booking your accommodation.

The Balearic Islands belong to Spain in the Mediterranean, and the famous Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean.

Canaries

At the top of our list of places where it’s warm in January is the Canary Islands. They are located almost off the coast of Africa. The main islands of the Canaries – Tenerife, Palma and Gran Canaria – are called continents in miniature. Here you can visit several seasons at the same time. In the mountains at an altitude of two kilometers, even in summer, there is snow, and on the coast and in winter the temperature is kept at + 20 ° С.

Balearic Islands

The largest island of the Balearic Islands is Mallorca. The resting place of the royal family of Spain. Despite its popularity, it is one of the ecologically clean places in Europe. Windy weather and rare rains will not prevent tourists from admiring the local landscapes, rich forests, valleys and mountains. The average temperature of the month is +16°С. The sea is crystal clear, excellent sandy beaches. It is a pity that January does not belong to the swimming season, but there will be time to visit historical monuments of various colors and styles. Traces of prehistoric times are overlapped by evidence of the rule of Carthage, Rome and the conquering Moors.

Portugal in January

Portugal competes with Spain and Italy not only with warm weather during the winter, but also with attractions. The mixture of European and South American cultures gives the country a unique flavor. The warmest thing in Portugal in January is on the island of Madeira + 18-19 ° С. Other Portuguese possessions in the Atlantic Ocean are the Azores, but in winter it is foggy and rainy. But the snow in the Azores does not fall at all.

Vacation in European resorts is quite an expensive event, but a trip in January will cost tourists 20-40% cheaper.

Theoretically, this Portuguese island does not belong to Europe, it is on a different plate, but we will close our eyes to this. Madeira in January will surprise you not only with the air temperature – sometimes + 25 ° C, but also with the temperature of the water in the ocean: + 19 ° C. The island’s weather is determined by the Gulf Stream. The climate here is one of the mildest in the world.

Madeira is easily accessible by plane from Lisbon. Great opportunity to put together a combo tour, but brace yourself for the possibility of rain in the Portuguese capital.

The landscape of Madeira is mountainous. The highest point is Pico Ruivo (1862 m). The average temperature in winter is +16°С. The north-west of the island is more cloudy, within Funchal it is a little drier. The city can be explored with the help of sightseeing buses – yellow and red. Choose hotel rooms on high floors, from where you can enjoy a gorgeous view of the ocean. 4-star hotels often have their own pools, because the resort is considered year-round.

Traditional activities include a walk through the market, lunch at a fish restaurant and a funicular ride to the tropical garden on Mount Monte.

Maderian cuisine offers excellent meat and fish dishes with local wine. In the center of Funchal there is an old winery where you can stock up on Madeira made according to old technologies.

By the way, the port of the island in Funchal receives cruise ships from Europe to the Caribbean.

Is it warm in Italy in January?

For walks along the streets of Italy, the wardrobe will have to be selected separately for each city. The warmest region in January is Sicily: +15°С (at night +9°C). At this time on the mainland in Naples + 13 ° C during the day (+ 5 ° C at night). A winter evening in Sorrento will delight you with the same temperature. Winters in southern Italy are mild.

For comparison: in Rome +11°С, wind and humidity, in Venice +6°С and flooding, in Milan it is cool +6°С, in Florence +9°С.

During the winter months, car rental prices are reduced by 15-30%, it is easier to find free parking, and attractions are free from crowds of tourists.

Sicily in winter

On the Italian island of Sicily, the sun shines 330 days a year. You will need warm sweaters only if you want to go to the mountains. (Two ski resorts are located on Mount Etna and one is near Palermo). The mild climate and warm weather (15-20°C) are ideal for hiking and sightseeing.

Sicily in January is covered with lush vegetation. Almond trees begin to bloom in white and pink. The area is interesting for its rocky-hilly relief and the highest active European volcano – Etna, around which a natural reserve is spread.

Sights of the island of Sicily are not inferior to the ancient monuments of the continental part of the country. Sicily has its own architectural style – the Sicilian Baroque, it has its own valley of temples.

Hiding from the cold in Europe in winter is no problem, but beach holidays can be serious problems, and it is possible that you will not be able to find a suitable place. Spain is considered one of the warmest European countries. In this country, you should pay attention to the southernmost Mediterranean coast of the country – the Costa del Sol. Some experts call this coast the warmest place not only in Spain, but throughout Europe. This coast originates near the famous Spanish city of Malaga and stretches to the Strait of Gibraltar. In Russian, the name of this region sounds like the Sun Coast. This is the most expensive and prestigious region of Spain, where the most luxurious hotels and residences of many world stars are located. The climate in this region is very mild, there are many more warm and sunny days than in other Spanish regions. Even in winter, the air temperature does not often fall below 20 degrees. The temperature of the water in the sea, depending on weather conditions, can be 14-15 degrees, and maybe reach 20. Usually tourists do not swim at this time, and if they do, it is mostly Russians, and foreigners look at them and are surprised.

There are many interesting and comfortable resort towns on the coast, but I advise you to pay attention to the city of Benalmadena, which is located twenty kilometers from Malaga. The sun often shines at this resort and even in winter the air temperature does not often fall below 25 degrees. Considering your requests and wishes, you will like this place. The beaches of this resort stretch for nine kilometers, and their distinguishing feature is not only cleanliness, but the color of the sand. Here the sand is not white or yellow, but gray. The advantage of this sand is that it warms up much faster than any other sand. This place is equally popular among both young people and couples.

Also in this place, everything is in order with entertainment, which is only worth the Tivoli World amusement park, which attracts not only with various attractions, but also with concerts and exhibitions regularly held on its territory. The park’s restaurants serve excellent Spanish cuisine, while the bars serve real Spanish sangria. So in such a place you can have a good time, drink and eat hearty.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the local aquarium, where you can enjoy a wide variety of inhabitants of the deep sea, as well as the largest collection of sharks in the world. If you are interested, you can go to the local penguinarium and dolphinarium. If you want to get into the mountains and see what mountain Spain is, you should use the cable car – Teleférico de Benalmádena, which has a length of 5565 meters and lifts tourists to a height of 771 meters (at this height is the top of Mount Calamorro). From this peak, you can see the Mediterranean coast in all its beauty, and if you are lucky with the weather, you can also see Gibraltar.

The city offers a variety of attractions, many of which are religious in nature, including one of the most popular tourist attractions – the Stupa of Enlightenment. This is a real Buddhist stupa, the height of which is 33 meters. This stupa is a symbol of harmony, peace, prosperity, etc.

Getting to Benalmadena is easy. First you need to fly to Malaga (you can do this by direct flight or with transfers), and from Malaga you can take a taxi, train or bus. A taxi will cost at least 20 euros, but the train and bus are much cheaper. Travel time by train will be around 30-40 minutes, depending on the train you choose (trains depart every 20 minutes).

But it all comes down to money, and if Spain seems like an expensive option for you, then you should pay attention to Cyprus. It is a very popular tourist destination not only in summer but also in other seasons. True, the likelihood that in December or any other winter month you will have the opportunity to swim in the sea is extremely low. Rather, you will have such an opportunity, but the temperature of the water in the sea in winter does not exceed 13-14 degrees, which is in no way suitable for swimming. Depending on the resort, the daytime air temperature in Cyprus is around +10 +15, and the air temperature at night drops below 10 degrees. There are not many people on the beaches, but those who do come there to take sunbaths (the sun is absolutely safe at this time and you should not be afraid of any burns).

Before making a choice in favor of Cyprus, you need to choose the right resort, as in some places, winter is accompanied by strong winds and rains. This weather is extremely unpleasant and tourists have to wrap themselves in warm jackets and raincoats. In order not to get into such a “wet” season, it is best to go in February. This month, the temperature gradually starts to go up and the number of sunny days increases. One of the best climatic conditions in the Paphos region, where warm, summer weather sets in in March during the daytime.

There will be no problems with housing in winter in Cyprus, the choice is large, prices are much lower than in summer. It is best to go on vacation with friends, then you can rent a villa with everything you need for a comfortable stay (if you’re lucky, there will be a heated pool). The main entertainment during this period in Cyprus is sightseeing and sightseeing trips. It turns out a good option for outdoor activities, but in terms of weather conditions, Spain looks preferable.

A number of other countries can also be considered, but now it is very difficult to say with 100% certainty that in a particular resort in December or another winter month there will be the most comfortable temperature.

With the onset of cold weather, many travel lovers begin to wonder where in Europe it is warm in winter. There are not so many warm places in this part of the planet in winter. Of course, there is Italy, Spain, Portugal, as well as Greece, Cyprus and Malta. However, even in these countries, which have access to the Mediterranean Sea, not hot, but warm weather persists, which excludes beach holidays.

Spain

It’s no secret that winter in Spain is one of the warmest among European countries. The beaches of Costa de la Luz and Costa del Sol are where it is warm in Europe in winter. From Spanish, the names of the beaches are translated as “Coast of Light” and “Sunny Beach”, respectively. These places prove their name with perfect sunny weather, because even in winter rainy and cloudy days are very rare, and the temperature ranges from 15 to 16 degrees. It will be fun not only for young people, but also for couples, because a wide range of entertainment is presented for tourists: dolphinariums, oceanariums and amusement parks. Spain also includes the famous Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean, the Balearic Islands, which are located in the Mediterranean.

The warmest place in Europe in winter

The Canary Islands are considered to have the highest temperature in winter among other European places. During the winter, the islands off the coast of West Africa experience about two hundred hours of sunshine, that is, about seven hours of sunshine per day. In these places it is easy to sunbathe, as the temperature during the winter remains quite high (20 degrees).

It is recommended to give preference to such islands as Gran Canario, Palma and Tenerife. The Canary Islands are quite popular among tourists, so it will definitely not be boring here. All sorts of activities and entertainment, as well as numerous sightseeing tours diversify your holiday.

Portugal

When thinking about where to go to Europe, where it is warm in winter, tourists think of Madeira Island. It has the mildest climate among other places in Portugal. The air temperature in winter can reach 25 degrees, and the water temperature in the ocean is 19 degrees. Popular entertainments are funicular rides to the tropical garden, lunches at a fish restaurant, walks in the market. In local establishments, you can try delicious fish and meat dishes, complementing them with wine made according to ancient technologies. In addition to Madeira Island, there are other worthwhile places in Portugal, such as the Azores archipelago, located in the Atlantic Ocean.

Italy

Italy is a particularly picturesque place in Europe. It’s funny that in different Italian cities the temperature can vary significantly. The warmest Italian region, where Europe is warm in winter, is Sicily. In January, the temperature on the territory of this island reaches +20 degrees. Sicily is the sunny corner of Europe, as the sun shines here 330 days a year.

The warm weather and mild climate make it possible to enjoy the sights and admire the lush vegetation that covers the island in January. Blooming pink and white almond trees look especially beautiful in winter. The relief of the island is rocky and hilly, here is also the highest active volcano in Europe, Etna. By the way, those who want to ski can safely go to the mountains, where there are two ski resorts.

Popular places in Italy for winter holidays are the mainland cities of Naples and Sorrento, where temperatures reach 13 degrees. At the same time, in Venice and Milan it is only +6 degrees, and in Rome +11. At this time of the year, traveling around Italy will be much cheaper.

Greece

Particular attention should be paid to the most densely populated and largest Greek island of Crete, which is located in the Mediterranean Sea. In January, the water temperature reaches 15 degrees. The largest flow of tourists falls on the period from April to October, however, in winter you can have a good rest here. In January, you can enjoy hiking and cycling. It is recommended to go to the southern part of the coast, as the temperature is higher there. In winter, you can visit interesting historical places without crowds of tourists, as is the case in summer.

The Greek island of Rhodes will please you with decent weather during the winter months, two seas, an interesting geographical position and, of course, its attractions. The sun is observed here 300 days a year. In winter, the weather is quite sunny and mild, and the temperature is reminiscent of early Moscow autumn.

Cyprus and Malta

Often, in search of a place to stay during the winter holidays, tourists look to Cyprus and Malta. The temperature here during this period of the year reaches 16 degrees. Tourists are offered various interesting excursions to historical sights. Malta is a place in Europe where the sea is warm in winter (water temperature reaches 17 degrees). Some are waiting for the winter period to go to Malta in order to get acquainted with the local cuisine and traditions. Friendly locals are happy to help tourists feel the local culture.

Now you know where in Europe it is warm in winter. Take everything you need with you and go on a wonderful journey. By the way, in winter, housing prices, excursions and everything else in the places listed above are much cheaper than in the tourist season, so this trip will also be economical. Another advantage of traveling in winter is the absence of crowds of tourists around attractions and queues at museums.

I love warm weather very much and I don’t go out of the house unnecessarily on harsh and cold winter days. I drink hot tea to keep warm. However, you can do smarter and fly to warmer climes. But, as you know, most tourists are drawn to Europe, which is rich in architecture and traditions. And in winter in many European countries the weather is quite cool, so it is important not to miscalculate!

Where is it warm in Europe in winter

To enjoy sunny days and favorable weather even in winter, let’s highlight TOP-3 warm European countries:

It is in the above countries that it is warm and comfortable even in winter. Let me dwell on each of these countries in a little more detail.
So, –
is a country where the cultures of Europe and South America intersect. Rich cultural traditions and bright people with a passionate disposition, as well as warm and pleasant weather all year round
. Swimming will undoubtedly be cool in winter, but long walks are the key to a successful holiday. Tourists simply must visit Madeira Island
on which tons
temperature is
+18-28
°C depending on the season. It is on this island that you can swim in natural pools in winter
formed by lava.

Another very comfortable country for a holiday in the winter is. Its southern part continues to enjoy warmth and sun in winter. Average temperature
while +20 degrees
. In the Balearic Islands and in Andalusia, you can feel the beauty of Spain in winter. Walks along the picturesque streets and the charm of local cities will not leave you indifferent.

is another country with a warm climate in winter. The weather is especially warm in the south of the country, in particular in Naples and on the island. T
temperature readings around +13-16°C
. The days in winter in Italy are mostly sunny, so they are the best for a vacation. In February, in the warmest winter month, carnivals
and many other events, so many tourists and locals gather here. It is worth saying that even in winter you can get a great tan in Italy!

Conclusion

Even in winter in Europe, you can enjoy the warm weather and treat yourself to an unforgettable holiday. Sun, walks, local cuisine and culture will brighten up the rest of any tourist.

Not only Asian countries can boast sunny days and warm water during the winter months. It is not necessary to fly far to enjoy the sun while there is bad weather in Nizhny Novgorod. Of course, in Europe it is not as hot as in the Caribbean or in Asia, but the weather is quite comfortable.

4 Seasons Travel studio offers you to visit Greek Athens, Cyprus and several other places. Having been there, you can return home tanned in winter. In addition to sunbathing, you will bring with you a bunch of memories from vacations and excursions that are comfortable at this time: it is not so hot and there are not so many tourists.

Tenerife

The weather during the winter months on this island pleases tourists. The thermometer stays at +19-22 degrees. And all this thanks to the warm waters of the ocean along the coastline – the air does not have time to cool. In Europe, only here you can enjoy the waves 365 days a year. Water temperature – +19-22 degrees south. And surfers will be best in the north, where the waves are of suitable size.

In winter, excursions are especially good in Tenerife. There is no heat anymore, and long walks are not a burden. And there is something to admire: the beauty of the surrounding nature and the rich heritage of ancient architectural objects. It will be a great pleasure to get acquainted with La Laguna or admire the Martian landscapes in the Teide National Park. You should definitely visit the annual carnival, which takes place in February in Santa Cruz.

Crete

The southern part of the island is warmer in winter than the northern part. On average, the temperature is kept at around + 20-23 degrees. Snow falls in the mountains in an even cover. If it is cloudy outside and the wind is blowing from the north, then it feels cool.

Winter holidays in Crete are attractive even without the beach. On the contrary, you can devote more time to leisurely walks and visits to excursions. In the list of what you need to see, you can add the Dictean Cave – Zeus was born here (at least, so the legend says). It will be interesting to get acquainted with the fortress of Frangokastello, the monastery. Postcards often depict the Church of Panagia Kera – the main brand of the island of Crete. And if you come here in February, you can get to the carnival and plunge into funny dances, music, see the parade of chariots, take part in street meals. And such a fun action takes place in Rethymno.

Cyprus

Cypriot winter weather is very similar to what happens during the spring months in many European countries. Throughout the winter months, the water temperature does not drop below +17 degrees, and the air temperature stays at +20 degrees.

Winter holidays in Cyprus will appeal to everyone. Lovers of learning new things will appreciate the acquaintance with Paphos, Larnaca and Kourion, where they will see many interesting finds of archaeologists. Those who want to hang out will love the clubs in the city of Ayia Napa. And the slopes of the Troodos mountain system will delight skiers and snowboarders. On the top of Mount Troni, Kykkos is located – a monastery where they offer to try spicy wine according to a special recipe. Olive oil is also produced here. But getting here is not easy – you have to climb to the top. The taverns will definitely feed guests with delicious dishes.

The use of the preposition in in English

The use and pronunciation of in

Warm winter will not save: gas prices in Europe may rise again

40:06+03:00

2022-01-15T04:40:00+03:00

2022

https://1prime.ru/exclusive/20220115/835743516.html prices in Europe may rise again

Exclusive

News

en-GB

https://1prime. ru/docs/terms/terms_of_use.html

https://russiasegodnya.rf

Developments in the European gas market will largely depend on the weather. But even with warm temperatures, Europe is not immune to high gas prices. And in case of severe… PRIME, 01/15/2022

energy, exclusive, gas, articles, europe, energy, gas, energy crisis 1920

1440

true

https://1prime.ru/images/83293/93/832939327.jpg

https://1prime.ru/images/83293/93/832939326.jpg

https://1prime.ru/images/83293/93/832939314.jpg

0003

https://1prime.ru/exclusive/20220108/835714262.html

https://1prime.ru/society/20220103/835675897.html

9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000

9000

7 495 645-37-00

Federal State Unitary Enterprise “Russia Today”

HTTPS: // Russian SASYADOYA.RF/Awards/

Economic Information Prime

1

5

4.7

9000 96,0003

7 495 645-37-00

FSUE MIA “Russia Today”

https: // Russian Saosyazyag. rf/Awards/

Economic Information Prime

1

5

4.7

9000

7 495 645-37-00

FSUE Fed MIA “Russia Today”

https: // Russian Sawdom.rf/Awards/

Economic Information Prime

1

5

4.7

9000 9000 today”

https://russiatoday.rf/awards/

Uliana Krainaya

https://1prime.ru/images/82942/26/829422698.jpg

MOSCOW, Jan 15 – PRIME, Uliana Krainaya. The development of the situation on the European gas market will largely depend on the weather. But even with warm temperatures, Europe is not immune to high gas prices. And in case of severe frosts, another price rally is possible, in which $2,000 per thousand cubic meters is not the limit.

“Golden Mountains”. Who left innumerable treasures in Russia

The European gas market is becoming more and more volatile due to falling domestic production, low stocks in gas storage facilities and active competition for gas flows with other markets – especially with Asia for “free” LNG, the senior director of “Ratings” tells Prime agency infrastructure” S&P Global Ratings Elena Anankina. Pipeline gas supplies from Russia are not enough to plug a hole in the European energy balance.

As long as Europe decommissions nuclear and coal plants, and as long as there is not enough electricity storage to insure variable renewable energy generation, the demand for gas in Europe remains.

“Thus, the gap between gas demand and supply is widening, and Europe is increasingly dependent on fluctuations in the global gas market and the strategies of individual suppliers,” the expert points out.

a relatively narrow spot market. At the same time, the actual prices of Gazprom’s gas exports to Europe can vary greatly due to the oil peg or contract price formulas. whether Europe will go through the winter without a crisis depends largely on the weather and on the flexibility of the decisions of regulators and fuel buyers.”

WHAT WORRY EUROPE

Deputy Director of the International Institute for Energy Policy and Diplomacy Igbal Guliyev notes that Europeans are not worried about the gas shortage, but about high exchange prices for natural gas and related socio-political aspects.

They won’t get warm even in summer: how much gas will cost for Europe in 2022%. Half of the heating season in Europe has passed, in the remaining two and a half months, much will depend on weather conditions.

In his opinion, a sharp rise in prices is possible in the event of severe cold weather, which is not expected according to forecasts. Relatively cold weather is expected in the Scandinavian Peninsula, the Baltic States and Poland. But for Norway, the main share of the energy balance is hydropower; Sweden, Denmark and Finland are also practically independent of Russian gas supplies. UGS facilities in Poland are filled to 90%, in Latvia – by 58%, in Lithuania there is an LNG terminal that accepts batches of Russian liquefied gas, the expert explains.

The lowest level of filling underground storage facilities, according to Guliyev, is observed in Austria (37%), the Netherlands (41%) and Ukraine (32.6%). Gazprom continues pumping its own gas into five European underground storage facilities, but compared to the previous year, the UGS filling level is 25% lower.

“Due to the favorable price environment for producers, it becomes possible to increase gas production, which will allow us to stabilize the situation in a relatively short time,” Guliyev believes.

At the same time, gas supplies to the European market are sufficiently diversified: pipeline gas from Russia and Algeria, liquefied gas from Qatar and Russia, Azerbaijani gas supplies to Turkey via the Southern Gas Corridor system, own gas from Norway, etc.

“ The current period is characterized by an increase in the share of American liquefied natural gas supplies to the EU, which favorably affects downward price dynamics and generally stabilizes the situation on the European gas market. The conjuncture of price volatility with an uncertain amplitude will persist during the first quarter of 2022,” the expert is sure.

FOR THE SAME RAKE

During the first week of January, gas offtake from UGS facilities in Europe was 2.4 times lower than in the last 5 years on average due to more windy weather (and higher electricity generation by wind farms, respectively) and more high temperatures – 4-5 degrees above the average climatic norm.

Wind of change: why Europe expects natural gas to become cheaper

This led to a correction in gas prices – at the moment they fell to $650 per thousand cubic meters, but have already recovered to almost $900, since the weather and wind factors are temporary, and “the situation has not changed structurally,” continues Dmitry Skryabin, portfolio manager at Alfa Capital.

European gas markets got relief from the windy and warm weather at the beginning of the year – storage facilities were even replenished within a few days, Alexander Tokmin, personal broker of BCS World of Investments, agrees. But the weather has returned to normal, the market remains in short supply, and the risk of undersupply at the end of winter is still very real.

Despite the current favorable conditions, gas reserves in Europe are at record low levels. “As a result, Europe may again step on the same rake as last fall, when countries were waiting for a decrease in gas prices¸ in order to speed up injection into UGS facilities. But instead, prices rose to record levels, and UGS facilities remained underfilled,” says expert of the Institute of Energy and Finance Mikhail Zhuravlev

In January or never What will happen to Nord Stream 2 in 2022

Today the situation is similar: Germany is postponing the commissioning of Nord Stream 2, and Russian gas is not in demand, despite threateningly low reserves. Europe hopes for LNG from the USA, a warm winter and an increase in renewable energy generation.

At the same time, price competition for gas between the Asian and European markets has been clearly observed in recent years. Now the price of gas in Asia (JKM) has dropped to $1,188/thousand cubic meters on January 7, due to the absence of cold weather and a sufficient level of energy resources.

However, a temporary ban on coal exports from Indonesia until the end of January and continued economic recovery amid the COVID-19 downturn will increase gas demand in Asia. Last autumn showed that the Asia-Pacific region is ready to offer much higher gas prices than Europe. In this case, US LNG (and not only) will again be redirected to the Asian market.

“The determining factor in the movement of the gas market is the weather. Reserves in UGS facilities in Europe have already been depleted by more than half. Even with warm temperatures, Europe can face high prices. With the onset of cold weather, Europe is waiting for another price rally, at which $2,000/thousand cubic meters is not the limit. The energy crisis in Europe has already begun, and weather conditions will only determine the further scale of this crisis,” Zhuravlev believes.

The expert recalled that Europe has a last resort solution – the launch of Nord Stream 2.

“In the future, it may turn out that it is Europe, and not Russia, who will benefit from this project,” he concluded.

Where in Europe can you swim in the sea in January? severe frosts, snow storms, and there are no patterns on the windows either. However, Europeans want to find a warmer place to throw off their heavy coats.

Tourists from Russia also dream of going to warm places or hot countries in winter. Most often, the determining factor of the place of choice are weather and flight.

The European winter is much warmer than the Russian one, because there are no severe frosts, snow storms, and there are no patterns on the windows either. However, Europeans want to find a warmer place to throw off their heavy coat.

Tourists from Russia also dream of going to warm places or hot countries in winter. Most often, the determining factor in the place of choice is the weather and flight.

It is not long to fly to Europe and there are places here, in the southern part, where the weather is warm in winter with air temperature above + 16°С.

We have prepared a list of European countries where you can go in January to sunbathe and enjoy the warm weather by the sea or ocean.

It is believed that the warmest European countries are Spain, Italy, and Portugal. In January, you can walk along the embankment in a light jacket, take sunbaths – the air temperature up to +19 degrees will definitely be provided in January.

Warm Spain in January

The warmest place in Spain is in the south: there are beautiful beaches of Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz. There is practically no rain on them in winter, it is mostly sunny, and the air temperature does not drop below 14 degrees Celsius.

Different tourists will be able to find a holiday in Spain to their liking: for young people there are nightclubs, bars, extreme sports centers.

Cozy restaurants, amusement parks, oceanariums and dolphinariums are suitable for families with children.

If tourists want to go on vacation with children, you need to check the weather forecast in advance and check with the hotel owner whether there will be heating at night – it gets cold in the evening.

Consider the individual islands of Spain, where you can go to rest in Europe in January.

In January to the Canary Islands

The first place among European resorts was and remains the Canaries. In the Canary Islands, the weather remains warm in January – you can come to Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Palma in January.
These resorts have their own characteristics, for example, a mild and warm climate is preserved on the coast, and snow lies in the mountains and is much colder. In this regard, the weather in different areas of the islands will be different from each other.

The air temperature on the coast does not rise above 20 ° C, by February it drops to +14 degrees.

Features of the Balearic Islands

The largest and most popular island among the Balearic Islands is the beloved Mallorca.

Many note the cleanliness of the island – Mallorca has long been considered the most environmentally friendly place in Europe.

Windy weather and rare rains do not prevent tourists from admiring the local scenery, rich forests, valleys and mountains.

In winter in Mallorca, the air temperature is kept at around +15 degrees. At the same time, the sea remains clean and transparent, but you can’t swim in the sea in January. But you can walk along the beach in sunny weather, bare your shoulders, sunbathe.

In Mallorca, you should definitely go on excursions or see the sights on your own, especially the historical sites of Carthage.

Go to Portugal in January 2020

Neighboring countries cannot divide tourists among themselves: Spain, Italy and Portugal.

Countries are similar in culture and history, they are adjacent to each other. Weather conditions in Portugal in January are extremely good – +19 degrees in Madeira.

The fact that Portugal captured the era of great geographical discoveries and all world wars suggests that there are a lot of historical monuments in the country that still keep the spirit of past years.

In the Azores archipelago, the weather is a bit worse – it often rains and fogs form.

According to reviews, vacationing on the islands of Portugal is expensive for the New Year, but after the New Year and Christmas holidays, prices for hotels and holidays in general are reduced by 35%, reaching the usual level.

Holidays in Madeira

In general, the island of Madeira belongs to another part of the world, not Europe, as it is located on another tectonic plate, but everyone is used to calling Madeira European.

In January, the weather on the island is simply gorgeous + 25 degrees. How do you like that? True, the water in the ocean has long cooled down so that no one here thinks about swimming in such weather. It is believed that the island has the mildest climatic conditions for human life.

Tourists often come to Madeira by plane from the capital of Portugal. Vacationers need to take an umbrella or a raincoat with them to Lisbon because there is a high probability of rain every day in January.

About hotels, surroundings and landscapes of Madeira Island

There are a lot of mountains on the island and one of them is Pico Ruivo, the highest point of the mountain range. The average total temperature in winter here is +16 degrees (the temperature in the mountains is also taken into account). In the northwest of the island there is always more rain than in the Funchal area.

Travelers can explore Madeira’s surroundings on red and yellow tourist buses.

The best hotels on the island have rooms with an ocean view – let’s just say that this is just an amazing sight.

We advise you to choose such hotels, on the coast or on a hill to see off beautiful sunsets – luxury hotels have outdoor heated pools.

You can have fun as you like, but first of all you need to appreciate the local cuisine and take a walk through the markets. You can also climb Mount Monte with the funicular. .

There is a very old winery in Funchal – be sure to see the process of making wine, and also taste the best wine to taste.

Is it warm in Italy in January?

Due to geographical factors in the cities of Italy, the weather is different everywhere. For example, in Sicily it is always warmer, there is +15 in January – this is the warmest place in the country.

A bit cooler in Naples there +13 degrees.

And temperatures in central as well as northern cities such as Rome, Venice and Milan are even cooler.

Therefore, before the trip, you need to look at the weather forecast in the regions of Italy.

In order to have a comfortable rest, you need to take warm clothes with you to Italy: a jacket, sneakers and jeans.
In winter in Italy there is no problem to find a parking space because there are fewer and fewer tourists coming to the country. Museums are almost empty, there are no queues to the sights.

The best place in Italy for a holiday in January is Sicily

The sunniest place in Italy is Sicily. You will only have to wear an insulated turtleneck if you decide to go to a Sicilian restaurant on foot – it gets cool in the evenings.
The average daytime temperature is +17 degrees Celsius: neither rain nor strong winds in the region.
If you wish, tourists can warm up and go to ski resorts, which, by the way, are located on the active volcano Etna. The sea has cooled down for a long time and only seasoned walruses will dare to swim in it. Fortunately, the hotels have heated pools.

Tourists who decide to go to Sicily in January will be very lucky, because at this time the weather is very mild, greenery grows around and almond trees bloom.

You should definitely visit the nature reserve near Mount Etna in winter, as well as visit the temples on the island.

The must-see cities of Palermo, Messina and Catania are full of interesting sights and entertainment – in general, you will not be bored in Sicily.

The best places for a beach holiday in Europe

Warm and mild weather in January is also inherent in Malta, Greece and Cyprus – the thermometer in the countries does not fall below +16 degrees Celsius.

We definitely advise you to go on vacation in Europe in January, as by this time citrus fruits ripen in countries, gardens bloom and there is always the opportunity to climb snow-capped mountains to go skiing and snowboarding.

You can swim in Europe in January, but not in the sea, but in a heated outdoor pool with a glass of champagne and a view of the sunset.

Be sure to bring warm clothes and sunscreen to Europe.

Rest in January. Where to rest in January?

January is clearly divided into two periods – New Year and Christmas holidays and student holidays. At this time, the cost of the trip usually increases markedly. But even this does not stop tourists who buy out the most interesting tours and the best places in hotels long before the time of vacation or vacation. Therefore, wherever you are going, it is advisable to think about it in advance. However, no one has canceled last-minute tours either, so you can always go somewhere. It’s just a matter of choice.

Sea holidays

In January, there is the most significant surge in the popularity of trips to the beach resorts of Asian exotic countries. Tourist places on the shores of Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, India Mauritius, Maldives and Seychelles are redeemed in advance.

Latin American beach destinations are no less popular. The beaches of Brazil, Cuba, the Dominican Republic and other countries and islands of the Caribbean are great for a seaside holiday. Tourists who prefer eco-tourism will certainly pay attention to Costa Rica, where there are no monuments of art, just as there are no factories and factories, but there are several very good hotels, and the beaches and jungle are preserved almost in their original beauty.

The Canary Islands are also very attractive in January. The temperature is slightly above +20°C. Almost perfect for those who can’t stand hot temperatures. But you can get a lot of impressions: there is an ocean, and volcanoes, and many interesting excursions, and nightly entertainment.

In more popular beach countries and, accordingly, cheaper in January, whatever one may say, winter. You can try to catch more or less warm weather in Egypt , but you don’t feel like relaxing on Egyptian beaches at all in winter. But to look at the pyramids in Giza and explore the sights of Luxor – that’s it.

Tours

January is such a colorful month that tourists can only figure out their preferences. The real Scandinavian winter can be caught during sightseeing tours in Finland and Sweden. Norway and Denmark are also ready to invite tourists in the dead of winter. For many Russian travelers, such trips can be very educational, because in January, when it is equally cold here and there, the streets, however, look completely different.

Winter is also a good time for tourist trips to the southern countries of Europe. For example, in January in cities in Spain and Portugal the temperature fluctuates between +15°С and +20°С. Thus, while it is snowy and cold in Russia, in the already mentioned Spain and Portugal , as well as Italy, Greece, Turkey and Egypt , you can walk in fairly light clothes and enjoy warm and dry weather. You should not be under illusions: it is also sometimes cold in these places, and even sometimes it snows. But for rich sightseeing tours, such temperatures are much better than tiring walks under the scorching sun in the midst of a beach holiday.

In January, you can also go to South America to personally visit the ruins of ancient Indian civilizations. In the mountains of Mexico and Peru tourists are waiting for unsolved ancient monuments. No less exciting can be a trip to the shores of the Amazon in Brazil or the Andes in Argentina . Once in these places, you should definitely visit the Chilean Easter Island.

Finally, in January, a trip to South Africa may turn out to be very successful. Here tourists are waiting for sandy beaches and exciting trips to national parks, where a variety of African animals live and a large number of unique plants grow. Those who feel confident in diving will certainly make an excursion to real sharks and huge turtles.

Skis

In January, the skiing opportunities in Europe give a wide scope to the imagination. Skiing and snowboarding is possible in any country where there are mountains and ski lifts. Connoisseurs of real mountains go to France, Austria and Germany . Those who like a more peaceful and elegant holiday, prefer Italy. Andorra is turning into a skiing mecca for Russians due to reasonable prices and very comfortable conditions.

If high mountains are not the main thing, then skiing can be very successful in Czech Republic, Slovakia, Slovenia, Poland and Montenegro . It is quite cold at this time of the year in the ski resorts of Finland, Sweden and Norway , but for many tourists the opportunity to take a real sauna after a ski day becomes the main reason to choose one of the Scandinavian countries.