WINTER SUNSHINE
Best Places to Travel in January for Warm Weather
Yearning for heat in the depths of winter? Discover destinations where you can swap your scarf for sunglasses and enjoy milder temperatures without a long-haul flight.
ESCAPE THE COLD
Top Rated: Warm January Destinations
Finding the best places to travel in January for warm weather doesn't mean you have to go to the equator. Southern Europe and its islands offer a delightful escape.
Winter Climate
Expect temperatures around 18-24°C in our top picks for the best places to travel in January.
- Tenerife: Consistently ranks as a top winter sun destination.
- Cyprus: Offers winter sun with a side of history.
- Madeira: Subtropical climate perfect for nature lovers.
- Malta: Provides a cultural city break with sunny skies.
TOP PICKS
Where to Go: January Sun Spots
Guaranteed sunshine a short flight away.
Tenerife, Spain
With its eternal spring, Tenerife is arguably the number one choice for warm January weather.
- South Coast: Driest and sunniest part.
- Masca Valley: Stunning green hikes.
- Whale Watching: Year-round sightings.
Paphos, Cyprus
Cyprus has one of the warmest winters in the Mediterranean, ideal for escaping the cold.
- Archaeological Park: Open-air mosaics.
- Coral Bay: Winter walks on the beach.
- Troodos Mountains: Scenery drives.
Funchal, Madeira
For mild, subtropical warmth, Madeira is a top pick for botanical beauty in winter.
- Monte Palace Tropical Garden: Lush exotic plants.
- Cable Car: Views over the sunny bay.
- Old Town: Al fresco dining.
Valletta, Malta
Sunny days are common here, cementing Malta as a top destination for culture lovers.
- Grand Harbour: Stunning boat tours.
- St. John's Co-Cathedral: Baroque masterpiece.
- Three Cities: Historic waterfronts.
Gran Canaria, Spain
Like its neighbor Tenerife, Gran Canaria is a top contender for winter sunshine.
- Maspalomas Dunes: Desert-like warmth.
- Roque Nublo: Iconic hiking landmark.
- Puerto de Mogán: 'Little Venice' sunshine.
WHY GO NOW
Why Visit in Winter?
Vitamin Sea
Replenish satisfyingly with reliable winter sunshine.
Avoid SAD
Beat the winter blues by escaping to brighter skies.
Cheaper Rates
Save money by visiting top destinations off-peak.
Exploration
Sightseeing is sweat-free during the mild January climate.
Explorer Tools
Everything you need to find the best places to travel in January for warm weather.
Sunshine Finder
Locate the sunniest places in January.
Hotel Deals
Stay for less during the off-season.
Flight Scanner
Fly cheap to warm destinations.
Climate Data
Temp charts for top winter spots.
Packing Lists
Essentials for winter sun trips.
Local Guides
Expert tips for your journey.
TRAVEL SMART
Tips for Visiting Warm January Spots
Maximize your sunshine hours.
Steps to Success
- 1Choose South-Facing Hotels: Essential for winter sun.
- 2Rent a Car: Explore microclimates to find the sunniest spots.
- 3Pack for Flexibility: Swimwear and a light cardigan are both needed.
- 4Check Sunrise/Sunset: Days are shorter, so start early.
Pro Tips
- Heated pools are a game changer in winter.
- Southern coasts are significantly warmer than northern ones on islands.
- UV index is lower but sunblock is still smart.
What Travelers Are Saying
"We followed the guide to the best places to travel in January for warm weather and loved Tenerife."
"Cyprus in January was a delight. Definitely one of the best places to travel in January for warm weather."
"Gran Canaria is my go-to choice. Great advice."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the absolute hottest place in January nearby?
The Canary Islands are the hottest among the best places to travel in January for warm weather within a short flight.
Is it warm enough to swim?
The sea is cool, but many hotels in these regions have heated pools.
Are all restaurants open in January?
In major resorts at these top destinations, yes, most things are open year-round.
How much sun will I get?
You can expect 6-8 hours of sunshine daily, compared to 1-2 in the UK.