Where to go on holiday in January 2026: Top 10 winter breaks
Where to go on holiday in January? You’ve picked the year’s smartest travel month. January offers post-holiday deals at their lowest, winter sunshine in the right destinations, and cities refreshed after the festive chaos. Whether you want 24°C warmth in Dubai or cosy European culture breaks, January delivers.
We’ve curated ten of the best places to go on holiday in January, from sun-soaked Dubai to Porto’s port wine cellars. Each destination offers something special: genuine value after Christmas spending, fewer tourists at major attractions, and that fresh-start energy that makes January feel full of possibility.
Here’s what makes January brilliant:
- Post-holiday deals at their best
- Winter sun in the right spots
- New Year celebrations that keep going
Your accommodation? That’s where we come in. GuestReady handles every detail with precision, ensuring your space is clean and ready for your arrival. Because when your stay runs smoothly, you’re free to focus on what matters: making those first memories of the year count.
Let’s explore your options. Here are ten destinations where everything simply falls into place.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
- Good for: History and culture
- Average temperature: 14°C
- Weather: Mild with occasional rain
Lisbon in January stays mild with occasional rain, perfect for exploring hilly streets without summer’s crowds or heat. Ride Tram 28 through Alfama’s narrow lanes, visit Belém Tower along the Tagus, and explore São Jorge Castle for city views. Museums stay quiet, restaurants have tables, and accommodation costs half the summer rates.
Seafood restaurants serve fresh catches daily: grilled sardines, octopus, bacalhau prepared dozens of ways. Pastéis de nata (custard tarts) taste best at Pastéis de Belém, the original bakery. January brings post-holiday calm whilst keeping the city fully functional. Pack layers and a waterproof jacket.
2. Dubai, UAE
Dubai delivers guaranteed sunshine when Europe sits grey and cold, making it the perfect destination for a Dubai city break in January. The Burj Khalifa offers views across the desert, Dubai Mall houses an aquarium and ice rink, whilst Jumeirah Beach provides proper swimming weather. Desert safaris offer dune bashing and Bedouin-style dinners under stars.
Explore old Dubai’s contrast with the skyscrapers: spice and gold souks bustle with traders, whilst Al Fahidi Historical District shows the city’s pre-oil past. January is peak season here with higher prices but perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Book restaurants and attractions ahead.
- Good for: Sunshine and luxury experiences
- Average temperature: 24°C
- Weather: Warm and sunny
3. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona’s mild January weather suits Gaudí’s architecture perfectly. Explore the Sagrada Familia without queuing, wander Park Güell’s mosaics in peace, and stroll Gothic Quarter lanes that stay atmospheric in cooler temperatures. Museums like the Picasso Museum feel spacious rather than packed.
The tapas scene runs strong year-round. Visit La Boqueria market for fresh produce, then hit bars in El Born or Gràcia for patatas bravas, jamón, and vermouth. Beach walks along Barceloneta work well, though swimming stays out.
- Good for: Architecture and cuisine
- Average temperature: 13°C
- Weather: Mild and dry
4. Edinburgh, Scotland
- Good for: History and festivals
- Average temperature: 4°C
- Weather: Cold with occasional rain
Edinburgh in January is genuinely cold with short days, but the city rewards hardy visitors with empty attractions and lower prices. The Castle sits dramatically above the city without summer queues, whilst the Royal Mile’s history-packed closes reveal their stories more clearly. Explore the National Museum of Scotland for Scottish history and excellent heating.
Traditional pubs serve proper Scottish comfort: haggis, stovies, Cullen skink soup, washed down with whisky. Explore the city’s whisky bars for tastings and warming refuge from the weather. January accommodation costs half the August festival rates. Pack serious winter gear: thermal layers, waterproof coat, warm boots.
5. Nice, France
- Good for: Scenic beauty and relaxation
- Average temperature: 10°C
- Weather: Mild and sunny
Nice in January offers French Riviera light without summer’s crowds or prices. The Promenade des Anglais stays perfect for coastal walks, the Mediterranean reflecting that distinctive blue. Visit the Matisse and Chagall museums when they feel spacious and contemplative. Explore the Vieille Ville’s market stalls showcasing winter produce and local specialities.
It’s too cold for beach days but ideal for Nice’s other pleasures: excellent restaurants serving socca and pissaladière, hilltop walks with panoramic views, and that particular quality of winter Mediterranean light. Hotels offer genuine deals. The city operates normally with locals outnumbering tourists significantly. Bring layers and a proper jacket.
6. Porto, Portugal
- Good for: Wine and culture
- Average temperature: 12°C
- Weather: Mild with occasional rain
Porto in January sees rain likely, but the city’s port wine cellars provide perfect refuge. Cross the Dom Luís I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia where dozens of cellars offer tastings: tawny, ruby, vintage ports with city views from rooftop terraces. The Ribeira district’s colourful buildings look brilliant in winter light when tourists stay scarce.
A Porto city break works well despite the weather: visit São Bento station for its azulejo tile panels, explore Livraria Lello’s bookshop, and eat francesinha (Porto’s gut-busting sandwich) at local tascas. The Douro River provides dramatic scenery even in grey weather.
7. London, England
- Good for: Sightseeing and theatre
- Average temperature: 7°C
- Weather: Cold with occasional rain
London in January is cold and dark, but world-class museums, theatres, and indoor attractions suit the weather perfectly. The British Museum, National Gallery, and Tate Modern stay genuinely quiet.
Traditional pubs provide warm refuge with proper Sunday roasts and real ales. Explore Borough Market for British produce, whilst Chinatown buzzes through January. Hyde Park’s paths work for brisk walks between museum visits. Pack winter clothing: coat, layers, waterproof shoes. January brings empty attractions and lower prices whilst the city operates normally.
8. Bordeaux, France
- Good for: Wine and history
- Average temperature: 8°C
- Weather: Mild with occasional rain
Bordeaux in January brings grey skies and rain, but wine lovers won’t care. The UNESCO-listed centre showcases 18th-century architecture, whilst the Cité du Vin museum offers interactive wine experiences and tastings.
Explore surrounding vineyards for château tours through Médoc, Saint-Émilion, and Graves appellations. The city’s restaurants serve southwest French cooking: duck confit, entrecôte bordelaise, cannelés for dessert. Markets sell oysters, foie gras, and seasonal produce.
9. Valencia, Spain
- Good for: Beaches and culture
- Average temperature: 15°C
- Weather: Mild and sunny
Valencia offers Spain’s mildest January with reliable sunshine. Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences: planetarium, aquarium, and science museum under Santiago Calatrava’s striking architecture. Explore the historic Carmen district for medieval towers and vibrant street art, whilst Central Market displays stunning modernist tilework alongside food stalls.
Beach walks along Malvarrosa work well, though swimming stays out. The city’s paella restaurants serve the dish in its birthplace: proper Valencian paella with rabbit, chicken, and beans. January means lower prices and manageable crowds whilst keeping excellent weather.
10. Aveiro, Portugal
- Good for: Authentic Portugal and local festivals
- Average temperature: 12°C
- Weather: Mild with coastal winds and rain
Aveiro sits on Portugal’s, offering canals lined with Art Nouveau buildings and authentic Portuguese character without tourist crowds. The city’s famous for its moliceiros (gondola-like boats) that once harvested seaweed and now cruise the canal network. In January, São Gonçalinho festival sees locals throwing cavacas (traditional biscuits) from chapel windows to crowds below, a chaotic centuries-old tradition unique to Aveiro.
The nearby Costa Nova beach features striped fishermen’s houses in vibrant colours, perfect for January walks along wild Atlantic shores. Aveiro’s ovos moles are local speciality, whilst restaurants serve fresh fish and caldeirada (fish stew). It’s 70km from Porto, making combined visits easy.
General travel essentials
Here’s a guide to help you prepare for your January getaway, embracing winter’s charm in various destinations. Whether you’re chasing snow or seeking milder climates, packing the right essentials is crucial.
Always check the weather forecast and specific travel guidelines for your chosen location.
- Passport/ID: Ensure validity for at least 6 months beyond your return date.
- Travel insurance documents: Keep digital and printed copies handy.
- Reservation confirmations: Including flights, accommodations, car rentals, and any activities.
- Travel itinerary: Outline your plans for each day, allowing flexibility for unexpected discoveries.
- Travel-sized toiletries: Pack travel-sized versions of your essential toiletries to save space and comply with airline carry-on restrictions.
- Chargers: Pack for all your devices, including a portable charger for on-the-go power.
- Warm clothing: Layer up with thermal wear, sweaters, and a heavy coat for cold temperatures.
- Comfortable waterproof shoes: Ideal for snow or rain, ensuring your feet stay dry and warm.
- Local currency and credit/debit cards: Inform your bank of your travels to avoid card blockage.
- Basic first-aid kit: With plasters, antiseptics, pain relievers, etc.
- Prescription medications: Bring them in their original packaging along with a copy of the prescription.
- Travel journal or notebook: Document your experiences, thoughts, and reflections during your journey in a travel journal or notebook, allowing you to preserve memories and reflect on your adventures later on.
- Weather-appropriate accessories: Pack gloves, scarves, hats, and a waterproof jacket or umbrella for fluctuating winter weather.
Stay with us
Still undecided on your January vacation spot? Allow GuestReady to transform your travel experience into something extraordinary. From resolving any unforeseen obstacles to surpassing your expectations, our dedicated team is committed to ensuring your journey is not only hassle-free but also unforgettable. Don’t delay any further – it’s time to pack your bags and set off on an exceptional January adventure with us by your side!
In case you’re thinking about postponing your trip to another time of the year, we’ve got you covered.
- February: Celebrate travel love this month. Explore our ‘Where to go on holiday in February’ guide for romantic getaways and serene retreats, carefully selected by GuestReady.
- March: Spring blooms with travel possibilities. Explore our ‘Where to go on holiday in March’ article for vibrant scenery and exciting activities, curated by GuestReady.
- April: Spring into new experiences. Discover our ‘Where to go on holiday in April’ guide for blossoming landscapes and cultural festivities, specially chosen by GuestReady.
- May: Welcome the warmth of late spring with our ‘Where to go on holiday in May’ article. Find perfect destinations that blend beautiful weather with unique experiences, all curated by GuestReady.
- June: Get ready for summer fun with our ‘Where to go on holiday in June’ guide. From beach paradises to lively festivals, GuestReady’s selection will help you find the perfect spot to kick off your summer.
- July: Make the most of the summer season with our ‘Where to go on holiday in July’ article. Discover sun-soaked destinations and vibrant cultural experiences, all carefully picked by GuestReady.
- August: Plan an exciting summer holiday with our ‘Where to go on holiday in August’ article. Discover the best summer spots and vibrant holiday experiences, selected by GuestReady.
- September: Embrace the beauty of autumn with our ‘Where to go on holiday in September’ guide. Find destinations blending summer warmth and fall coolness, chosen by GuestReady.
- October: Enjoy the autumn vibe in October. GuestReady’s ‘Where to go on holiday in October’ features selections that fit the richness of fall with it’s and cultural festivities.
- November: Discover our ‘Where to go on holiday in November’ destinations. From unexpected landscapes to famous city breaks, GuestReady has it all.
- December: End the year on a high note with our ‘Where to go on holiday in December’ guide. Explore festive markets, winter wonderlands, and cosy retreats, all chosen to make your holiday season special with GuestReady.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to go on holiday in January?
- Dubai delivers guaranteed 24°C sunshine and luxury experiences when Europe sits grey and cold. For European options, Lisbon and Porto offer mild 12-14°C temperatures with culture and excellent food. Valencia sits at 15°C with Spanish sunshine. Barcelona combines Gaudí architecture with 13°C comfort, avoiding summer’s intense heat and crowds.
Are European cities crowded in January?
- January sees the quietest tourism of the year. Major attractions have minimal queues, restaurants don’t require advance booking, and you’ll actually get photos without crowds. The trade-off is shorter opening hours and some seasonal closures. It’s genuinely peaceful compared to any other month.
Do attractions close in January?
- Most major museums, galleries, and indoor attractions stay open year-round. Some outdoor sites, gardens, and seasonal attractions close or have reduced hours. Restaurants and shops take post-Christmas breaks, particularly in smaller cities. Check specific venue opening times before travelling, especially around New Year.
What can I expect when booking a GuestReady property?
- Every stay includes hotel-quality linen and toiletries, 24/7 guest support, contactless check-in, and professionally cleaned homes, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.
