9 European Beaches That Are Actually Warm in January

When you’re shivering-cold at home—considering a quick vacation to somewhere much, much warmer—you might not think of jetting off to Europe right away. The Caribbean, Hawaii or the South Pacific might seem more appealing.

However, don’t overlook Europe in the winter. Sure, there are those destinations where you’ll see plenty of snow, and if it’s sun and sand you’re seeking, you wouldn’t head to Scandinavia or the Swiss Alps. However, Europe is a big place and there are plenty of sunny beach destinations that will welcome you in the month of January—and, in fact, you may just find that you like visiting some of these locales in January more, as the crowds (and prices!) are down.

Here are the best European beach destinations to visit in January for warm weather.

The Balearic Island of Mallorca (Majorca), Spain, offers mild to warm temperatures in January, with highs in the upper 50s, low 60s, and little rain. You can still swim, if you’re a brave soul and want to join some of the locals, but many travelers are going to want to stick to the shores.

However, the big thing you’re going to appreciate about visiting this balmy island during January? The low crowds. 

While this is a very popular vacation spot during the summer, you’re going to get some great travel deals and be able to enjoy the many outdoor adventures available on Mallorca without dealing with any tourist hordes (although the island is becoming more popular with sports tourists, particularly cyclists, in the winter, who’re likewise looking for somewhere that offers good weather for being outside but fewer people).

Additionally, there are a few special things you can catch in January that you might not otherwise, such as the almond tree blossoming that occurs across the Balearic Islands starting in late December and that lasts through the end of February. The festa de Sant Antoni also takes place in mid-January.

January temperatures can stretch into the 70s throughout the Canary Islands, and you’ll rarely see rain. As such, forget packing your coat and make room for your swimsuit instead.

In addition to boating and the beach, though, be sure to also plan time in your itinerary for the islands’ other outdoor adventures. Timanfaya National Park, with its otherworldly geography, is a favorite on Lanzarote, accessible via hikes of varying difficulty. Caldera de Bandama on Gran Canaria is another popular hiking spot.

If you’re reluctant to leave the water and waves for too long (after all, after your trip is over, it’s likely back to snow and ice!), you might try your hand at surfing—though note that the winter is prime surfing season, so the waves might be a little too powerful for a complete newb.

All the while, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds than you would if you were to visit in the summer.

Not sure which island to pick? Tenerife is the largest Canary Island and offers plenty to do, though it’s not out of the realm of possibility to visit multiple islands during one trip.

With January highs in the upper 60s, Madeira is perfectly pleasant this time of year. The Portuguese island is quiet and crowd-free, too, though the one downside is that you should probably just keep an eye on the weather and pack your raincoat. Madeira can be rainy in the winter, but luckily, it’s typically just a short shower versus an all-day affair. Water temperatures also remain pretty moderate, so swimming isn’t out of the question.

Top January activities include taking the Monte cable car to the Monte Palace tropical garden, visiting the Funchal Botanical Gardens, and hiking along the levadas.

Stick to Cyprus’s coastal areas, like Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca and Famagusta, to enjoy mid-60s temperatures in January. While you might encounter some cloudy days during the winter months, the lesser crowds and ease of doing what you want, when you want, will make the sacrifice worth it.

Make a point to see some of the sites and experience some of the activities that might be a little miserable in the high heat of summer. For example, visit outdoor archaeological sites in Paphos—like the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, medieval Castle of Paphos, the Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church, or the Tombs of the Kings (there really is no shortage of options)—or go bird watching and hiking around Limassol and Larnaca. Limassol and Larnaca likewise have plenty of outdoor historic and archaeological sites to explore, as does Famagusta.

Situated on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, Antalya boasts some of the warmest January temps in the country, with highs in the mid-60s. During the winter months, Antalya’s crowds thin, but not so much that you struggle to find things to do or that certain attractions close up shop for the season, as might be the case in other destinations that slow down after the holidays.

The weather can be unpredictable and mild, though, so plan to wear sweaters (if not necessarily a coat) and to enjoy the seaside without actually laying out in your swimsuit. Potential activities to fill your itinerary include exploring the old town of Kaleici, visiting the city’s museums, going for a hike in the Taurus Mountains or going on a tour to see the Duden or Kursunlu waterfalls.

And, if, despite the warm weather, you still feel a little chill, head to a traditional Turkish bath.

Travel as far south as one can go while remaining on Italian grounds. The island of Lampedusa offers absolutely beautiful beaches, with the crème de la crème often considered to be Spiaggia dei Conigli, or Rabbit Beach. The temperatures average out in the low to mid-60s during the day.

Admittedly, in comparison to other warm destinations in Europe that you could visit during January, Lampedusa has less in the way of cultural and historical attractions—though there is the Santuario della Madonna di Porto Salvo, a sanctuary built into a cave and dating to the 13^th century. There is also a Gateway to Europe memorial that recognizes the island’s role in welcoming refugees crossing the Mediterranean.

On mainland Portugal, the Algarve is the southernmost portion of the country, offering a beautiful coastline and plenty of sunshine, even in the winter months. Expect daytime temperatures that creep upward to nearly 70 degrees. In some instances, it’s not uncommon to find locals and visitors alike sunbathing and swimming even during the winter.

Of course, you should visit the beaches, like Praia da Marinha, Praia Dona Ana, and Praia da Falesia. Don’t be surprised if you see the surfers out, as this time of year is a favorite for them.

However, also consider packing your hiking boots and hitting the trails. Plenty offer ocean views. If you go to Praia da Marinha for a beach day, you’ll see that it’s the starting point for the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, which is of particular note, offering views of not just the ocean, but also the region’s rugged cliffs, sea caves, and more, over a nearly 12-mile round trip.

Additionally, you’ll find charming, historic, and culturally rich towns throughout the region, including Lagos and Monchique.

Another beach destination on the mainland, Cadiz is an ancient port city that’s actually one of the oldest in all of Europe. During January, you can find low-60s temps and a bit of rain, so pack your rain jacket, even if you don’t need your winter coat.

Given this destination’s history, you may want to spend more of your time in the sun exploring on foot rather than by the water. Wander the old town, which encompasses multiple neighborhoods; if you only have time to explore one, make it Barrio del Populo, the oldest, where you’ll also find the Catedral de Cadiz. Embrace your inner archaeologist when you go see the Phoenician and Roman remains at the Yacimiento Arqueológico Gadir site, or browse the Museo de Cadiz.

Don’t miss the city’s foodie scene (tapas, anyone?), either, nor the flamenco culture.

Admittedly, Nice is only going to feel warm to you if you’re coming from a destination in the States where you’re currently getting hammered with snow—but if you are, Nice is going to feel practically hot, with high temps in the mid to high 50s.

The reason to visit Nice in January, though, isn’t the weather, per se. Instead, it’s a great spot to visit during this month if it’s been on your bucket list and if you’re trying to save some cash, as the reliably ritzy, luxurious destination experiences its low season through the winter, making for cheaper flights and hotel rooms.

While you might not get the heat, you will get sunshine. Enjoy the ocean views from Sentier du Littoral, a hiking/walking path along Cap de Nice. If you prefer to sightsee on two wheels, do so on the seafront promenade. Stop into the museums and, of course, enjoy Nice’s luxury offerings, including trips to the resort spas, wine tastings, fine dining, and shopping. After all, you saved so much on your hotel room and flight, why not splurge?