Starting the new year with a vacation helps you to hibernate, reset and plan ahead of the year. A January vacation in Europe provides a range of experiences and many cities to explore. Most tourist destinations are less crowded in January because the December holidays are over. This makes these destinations more cosy and gives you more room to explore and enjoy every minute of your travel.

In this article, we will show you the best places in Europe to visit for a vacation in January and the factors to consider as you pack your bags.

What to know before planning your January vacation in Europe

Before you choose your ideal destination for a January getaway, here are some things you should consider.

• The weather: The weather is generally cold around this time in Europe. If you want to enjoy the best snowy experience, the Alps and Nordic countries are the best. Otherwise, opt for Southern Europe for a relatively warmer city. Pack your bags to suit the weather.
• Budget: Create a budget that factors into your travel expenses - flights, accommodation, food, and shopping. Choose an affordable destination to avoid being stranded or being unable to explore your choice city fully. Also, having a reliable cross-border payment solution at your fingertips is a lifesaver. It helps you pay for expenses without hassle.
• Activities: Plan your activities and adventures before travelling to maximise the experience and stay within budget.
• Visa requirement: Ensure you review the visa requirements and other travel regulations.

Top European cities for your January vacation

Here are six of the best places in Europe you should visit in January for a vacation.

1. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a choice destination for a January getaway if you enjoy cold weather and winter activities. Enjoy coffee and pastries in historic cafés, and treat yourself to beautiful art and music. Vienna has many tourist activities to enjoy in the winter, including visiting museums, cafes, and the zoo.

Weather: January is one of the coldest and snowiest months in Vienna. The temperature is usually between -3°C and 3°C.

Activities:

• Skiing: January is a good time to visit Austria's ski resorts, which are less crowded than during the Christmas and February school holidays.
• Visit grand palaces like Schonbrunn and Belvedere.
• Attend the city's New Year concert and ball season.

2. Santorini, Greece

January in Santorini is usually cosy, quiet and more affordable. Most tourists would have returned, and you can now enjoy a more cultural, serene, and less crowded experience.

Weather: It is relatively warmer than most parts of Europe, with an average temperature of around 13°C. It rains occasionally, too.

Activities: Places to visit include:

• The local taverns for traditional Greek food
• Boutique shops for souvenirs
• The wine museum
• The Museum of Prehistoric Thera
• The ruins of a Byzantine castle

3. Bergen, Norway

This coastal city is considered a hidden gem for tourists and frequent travellers. It hosts the Bryggen Wharf, a remnant of the Hanseatic League and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Weather: The winter climate is mild and around 0°C. Snow usually accumulates more in the mountains surrounding the city, but it is unlikely to build up in the city centre.

Activities

• See the Northern Lights: Although they are usually more difficult to view from Bergen, the Northern Lights are best seen during the dark winter months, especially January.
• Bryggen: tour the UNESCO World Heritage Site and see the maintained wooden buildings.
• Winter lights: Bergen lights up the city in the winter to make it feel more lively and brighter.
• Snowshoe hiking
• Explore the heights of Mount Floyen

Read also: Top digital nomad cities for long-term rentals in Europe

4. Edinburgh, Scotland

In January, Edinburgh is often cold and quiet, and many centres have reduced open hours. However, the city promises many events and festivals during your January vacation.

Weather: January is usually one of the coldest months in Edinburgh, with high temperatures rarely exceeding 7°C.

Activities

• Hogmanay: Edinburgh kicks off the new year with its famous Hogmanay celebrations.
• Christmas market: The Christmas market usually lasts until early January.
• Burns Night: On January 25, Scotland celebrates the life of Robert Burns, the author of "Auld Lang Syne". This night includes a Burns Supper, where people eat haggis, neeps, and tatties, drink whisky, and recite Burns' poetry.
• Other festivals and events: Other winter festivals and events in January include Celtic Connections in Glasgow, the Sled Dog Rally in Aviemore, and the start of the Snowdrop Festival in Fife.
• Visit the Edinburgh Cattle and the National Portrait Gallery
• Real Mary Kings Close tour: Take the underground tour to explore Edinburgh's 17th-century street.

5. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

If you are big on skiing, Chamonix is one of the best destinations for you this January. The city is a little busier in the winter compared to other places on this list because of its skiing attraction and regular snowfall. One of the interesting parts of the skiing experience is that you can watch or participate in cross-country skiing with or without rifle marksmanship (biathlon)

Weather: Average daytime temperatures are between 4°C and -4°C. It snows on average 13 days per month.

Activities: Apart from skiing, you can also

• Hike up to a glacier
• Take the gondola
• Relish the  Savoyarde dishes, including cheese on toast and Reblochon.

Read also: Best digital nomad rentals: affordable living options in Belgium

Conclusion

January in Europe provides a unique opportunity to enjoy iconic destinations with fewer crowds and a magical winter atmosphere. As you plan your trip, use Grey for seamless multi-currency payments and effortless financial management, making your travels across Europe stress-free and enjoyable. Sign up today!