If you’re looking for a warm holiday destination in January but don’t want to travel too far, then these European hotspots could be just what you’re looking for
January can be a tough month to get through. The post-Christmas slump is no fun, and there’s not much to look forward to in the gloomy months until spring.
However, it can be the perfect time for a getaway. January is often the cheapest month to visit many European destinations, and it’s usually the quietest month too, so you can enjoy days out without the crowds.
If you don’t fancy a long-haul flight, there are holiday hotspots that are closer to home, but still offer plenty of sunshine and warm days. While you won’t be enjoying scorching summer weather, these destinations will give you some respite from frosty days in the UK and have flight times clocking in around four hours.
Tenerife
Daytime highs: 21C
Flight time: from 4 hours 5 minutes
Tenerife tends to be the warmest Canary Island in January, especially in the sunnier south. It’s little surprise that it has been among the most popular winter sun destinations for years, with the sunny, mild days occasionally broken up by light rain showers. Many people visit in January to hike the lush green landscapes of Anaga Rural Park or explore the desert-like Teide National Park, while the weather is mild. Or you could simply enjoy the island’s sandy beaches and sea temperatures of around 20C.
The only downside to jetting off to Tenerife in January is that it’s the peak season for the island. The resorts are still busy and lively during the winter months. If you’re after a more tranquil getaway, consider hopping on a ferry to nearby La Gomera, which takes roughly an hour. This lesser-known Canary Island is far less developed and sees only a fraction of the visitors compared to Tenerife.
Madeira
Daytime highs: 18C
Flight time: from 3 hours 50 minutes
Just north of the Canary Islands off the coast of Morocco lies the Portuguese island of Madeira, boasting a slightly cooler, wetter climate. However, in January, you can still generally expect warm days around 18-19C and rain usually comes in brief spells.
The mild days make it the perfect time to explore the lush Madeira Botanical Garden, which remains verdant even in winter, or trek Pico do Arieiro, a three-and-a-half-hour hike offering breathtaking views of the island. Sea temperatures hover around 18-19C in January, which might be a bit chilly for some, so opt for a hotel with an outdoor heated pool if you fancy a swim.
Cyprus
Daytime highs: 18C
Flight time: from 4 hours 35 minutes
Cyprus may be a slightly longer flight, but with most UK routes clocking in at under five hours, it’s still considered a short haul. In January, the weather is typically mild and warm, boasting around six hours of sunshine daily.
The month sees about seven days of rain, usually in short bursts. The warmest part of the island is Limassol in the south, where you can bask on long stretches of sand such as St. Raphael Beach with its stunning turquoise waters.
On rainy days, visit Lemesos Castle, home to the Cyprus Medieval Museum, which displays treasures from the Byzantine period.
Malta
Daytime highs: 16C
Flight time: from 3 hours
Malta has been gaining popularity for winter sun holidays, and January is a fantastic time to wander the narrow, cobbled streets of Valletta or Mdina without having to jostle through crowds. The island has always been a favourite destination for hikers, and if you’re not fond of hiking in the heat, a visit in January offers milder days.
Give the Victoria Lines Trail a go. It takes around eight hours and runs along a former defensive wall, offering spectacular views of Malta’s north.
Algarve, Portugal
Daytime highs: 15C
Flight time: from 2 hours 55 minutes
The Algarve, nestled in the southern region of Portugal, is renowned for its sandy beaches. Although January might be a bit chilly for a dip in the sea unless you’re particularly daring, the sun-kissed coast is still worth a visit.
Expect around five to six hours of sunshine daily, with occasional brief rain showers. Take advantage of the mild weather with clifftop walks, dolphin-spotting boat trips, or wine tasting tours.
Malaga, Spain
Daytime highs: 17C
Flight time: from 2 hours 45 minutes
Boasting the shortest flight time on our list, Malaga is perfect for a long weekend getaway to escape the January blues. While most of southern Spain is a great choice for January, Malaga earns its spot as it offers both city and beach break options.
On sunny days, soak up the atmosphere at the bustling La Malagueta beach, featuring a lengthy stretch of sand and a promenade brimming with bars and restaurants. If the weather turns bad, head to the Picasso museum or find a cosy tapas bar in the stunning Mercado de Atarazanas, a historic market adorned with ornate stained glass windows.