Here are the top destinations to visit in January
In Europe, there are so many destinations that you can choose from for your January escapades. From skiing to a sunshine destination, there is no reason for you to stay at home for the winter months at all. Take a look at the top 5 European destinations below that you can visit this January:
1. Rome, Italy
There are two airports that provide quick access to Rome: Ciampino and Fiumicino. Both offer excellent transport options into the city, allowing you to reach the centre of Rome in under an hour from either location.
Rome itself is a metropolis of wonder, offering a blend of ancient Roman ruins interspersed with high-end shops. It truly is an incredible destination, which is why it appears on so many bucket lists. The coffee and food options are unparalleled, so you can hardly go wrong with whichever dining establishment you choose.
Wandering through the streets is awe-inspiring, and it’s impossible to turn a corner without being amazed by the diversity before you. Even on a short weekend trip, it’s easy to fit all the top sights into your itinerary. Be sure to visit at least the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Vatican City, Castel Sant’Angelo, and the Roman Forum. One advantage of visiting in winter is the reduced crowds. Just make sure to check opening times and any advance ticket requirements for the places you want to see, as these can vary.
2. Berlin, Germany
If you’re a history enthusiast, Berlin is the ideal destination for you this winter. Fly into Berlin Brandenburg airport to begin your exploration of this historic city, which was once at the heart of the Cold War. Today, Berlin remains an intriguing mix of East and West German infrastructure.
There are numerous art museums, the Stasi Museum, the Topography of Terror, the German Spy Museum, remnants of the Berlin Wall, the Reichstag, and Brandenburg Gate to explore. The entire city is a melting pot of living history, yet it’s also filled with restaurants, parks, and a highly efficient U-Bahn (subway) system. If you prefer to walk, Berlin is also incredibly walkable, with the main sites easily accessible on foot. A stroll down Unter den Linden is ideal, if only to admire the architecture, Berlin Cathedral, river views, and other key tourist hotspots like Alexanderplatz and Brandenburg Gate at each end.
3. Val d’Isere and Tignes, France
Skiing options are plentiful during the winter months across Europe. The Val d’Isere and Tignes resort area is a family-friendly option that caters to all age groups. The quickest airport for transfers to the area is Geneva Airport in Switzerland, but you can also fly into Lyon Airport in France with equal ease.
The ski terrain offers an excellent mix of beginner to advanced slopes. Ski passes provide access to over 300km of terrain across the Val d’Isere and Tignes ski areas, which are connected by the Tommeuses chairlift. Thanks to the resort’s high altitude, snow conditions are exceptional. This makes it the perfect destination for all snow enthusiasts eager to hit the slopes this winter.
4. Seville, Spain
If you’re seeking some sunshine in January, Seville is an excellent option, offering higher temperatures than much of the rest of Europe at this time of year. The city also boasts some of the most stunning architecture, with the old city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can leisurely explore palaces and mansions, or keep busy by visiting any of the numerous art galleries and museums that this Andalusian city has to offer. At the very least, you’ll enjoy some of the finest tapas available in this vibrant city. And perhaps after dinner, you might be tempted to watch a world-famous flamenco show. Truly, a wonderful experience awaits you in this citrus-tree-lined destination.
5. Riga, Latvia
Riga is a delightful winter destination for those who love old-town cities like Prague or Warsaw. It’s also still a bit more off the mainstream tourist track. The Baltic State can be bitterly cold in winter, so be sure to pack some layers to keep warm during your adventures.
The old town is lined with pubs and restaurants, as well as beautiful buildings and cobbled streets. A unique place to visit is the House of the Blackheads. The Brotherhood of the Blackheads was an association of wealthy, unmarried merchants of German descent, and they certainly left their mark with an iconic building in the heart of this beautiful city.
For a change of scenery, escape the city to nearby destinations like Sigulda, where you can explore beautiful castles and national parks. The trains may be basic, but they are cheap and efficient, and the views of the snow-covered Latvian countryside are truly unbeatable.
