Where To Go On Holiday In January

The best January holiday destinations for 2026

January in the UK can feel like a bit of a slog - Christmas is over, it’s cold, grey, and everything feels a bit ‘meh’. That’s exactly why it’s the perfect time to plan a getaway, whether you fancy some winter sun or just a change of scenery. We’ve rounded up the best January holiday destinations for 2026, with top picks that offer great value, good vibes, and a proper break from the everyday. Scroll down and get inspired for where your next trip could take you.

1. Crete, Greece

Best for: Ancient ruins, rugged landscapes and Mediterranean sunshine

Don’t miss: The Palace of Knossos - one of Europe’s oldest and most fascinating archaeological sites.

Average Temperature in January: 9°C - 16°C

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Greek
• Timezone: GMT+2
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 4 hours
• Average price of a beer: €3 - €5

A Crete holiday in January means fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and the chance to explore its mythological past in peace. From historic sites to mountain villages and sun-drenched coastal walks, it’s a brilliant destination for those craving culture and calm with a touch of winter warmth.

What can you do in Crete?

1. Step into Greek mythology at Knossos: Explore the vast and captivating ruins of the Palace of Knossos, where legends of King Minos and the Minotaur come to life through ancient frescoes and labyrinthine corridors. As one of Europe’s most important archaeological sites, it offers a deep dive into Minoan civilisation with fewer crowds in January.
2. Hike through Crete’s wild landscapes: While the famous Samaria Gorge is often closed in winter, other routes like the Imbros Gorge remain accessible and provide a strikingly peaceful trekking experience. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, it’s a refreshing way to explore Crete’s natural beauty without the scorching heat.
3. Get lost in Chania’s Old Town: With its Venetian harbour, pastel-coloured buildings, and cosy waterfront tavernas, Chania is perfect for a gentle winter wander. The cooler weather makes it ideal for exploring local boutiques, museums, and the charming backstreets at your own pace.
4. Experience authentic Cretan village life: Visit mountain villages like Archanes or Anogeia, where local traditions and hearty food offer a glimpse into the real soul of the island. Winter here is quiet and welcoming, with open fireplaces, homemade raki, and warm hospitality waiting at every turn.

2. Sicily, Italy

Best for: Dramatic coastlines, rich history and mouth-watering street food

Don’t miss: Mount Etna - Europe’s most active volcano, where you can take guided winter hikes or cable car rides.

Average Temperature in January: 8°C - 15°C

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Italian
• Timezone: GMT+1
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 3h 15m
• Average price of a beer: €4 - €6

A Sicily holiday in January offers a wonderfully mild climate, ideal for sightseeing without the scorching heat or summer crowds. With ancient ruins, vibrant cities and plenty of local charm, it’s a great pick for a culture-packed escape that still feels relaxing and off the beaten track.

What can you do in Sicily?

1. Discover the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento: Walk among some of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples outside of Greece, surrounded by citrus groves and rolling hills. The winter light casts a soft glow on the ruins, making it a stunning and contemplative time to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Embark on a winter adventure to Mount Etna: Join a guided tour or hop on a cable car to ascend the snow-dusted slopes of Europe’s most active volcano, where lava fields and craters stretch as far as the eye can see. The views are spectacular, and the cold season adds an exciting twist to this already dramatic landscape.
3. Taste your way through Palermo’s street food scene: Wander through vibrant markets like Ballarò and Vucciria, sampling traditional Sicilian snacks such as panelle, sfincione, and fresh cannoli. With fewer tourists around, it’s the perfect chance to chat with friendly vendors and experience local life up close.
4. Soak up the charm of Taormina: Perched above the Ionian Sea, this picturesque hilltop town is known for its ancient Greek theatre, boutique shops, and panoramic views of Mount Etna. Visiting in January means quieter streets, crisp air, and plenty of space to enjoy its timeless beauty at a relaxed pace.

3. Costa Brava, Spain

Best for: Coastal charm, medieval villages, and stunning walking trails

Don’t miss: The Caminos de Ronda - scenic coastal paths that link beautiful hidden coves and beaches.

Average Temperature in January: 6°C - 15°C

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Spanish and Catalan
• Timezone: GMT+1
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 2h 10m
• Average price of a beer: €2 - €4

A Costa Brava holiday in January is perfect for travellers who enjoy dramatic seaside landscapes without the summer crowds. With cooler weather ideal for hiking, exploring medieval villages, and relaxing in quiet seaside towns, it's a laid-back destination full of rustic beauty and Spanish charm.

What can you do in Costa Brava?

1. Walk the coastal paths of Caminos de Ronda: These old fisherman’s trails wind along the rugged coastline, passing pine-covered cliffs, turquoise bays, and sleepy fishing villages. In January, the trails are peaceful and ideal for a scenic walk with uninterrupted sea views and crisp Mediterranean air
2. Explore the historic town of Girona: Wander through its charming Old Quarter, complete with cobbled streets, colourful riverside houses, and one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe. The cooler season lets you take your time enjoying the cathedral, city walls, and cafés without queues.
3. Visit the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres: This surreal museum, designed by Salvador Dalí himself, offers an extraordinary insight into the mind of the iconic artist. In the quieter months, you’ll have more space and time to take in the eccentric exhibits and bold architecture at your own pace.
4. Discover medieval villages like Pals and Peratallada: These stone-built towns are full of character, with ivy-covered walls, ancient towers, and narrow lanes frozen in time. Visiting in winter gives you a more intimate experience, where you can enjoy the old-world ambience without the usual tourist bustle.

4. Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Best for: Year-round sunshine, volcanic landscapes and outdoor adventure

Don’t miss: Timanfaya National Park - a Mars-like landscape formed by volcanic eruptions in the 18th century.

Average Temperature in January: 14°C - 21°C

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Spanish
• Timezone: GMT
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 4h 15m
• Average price of a beer: €2.50 - €4

If you're craving some proper winter sun, a Lanzarote holiday in January delivers warm temperatures, clear skies, and plenty to explore. From volcanic parks to whitewashed villages and black-sand beaches, it’s a unique island escape that blends adventure with relaxation beautifully.

What can you do in Lanzarote?

1. Explore Timanfaya National Park: Discover dramatic lava fields, steaming geysers, and craters on a guided tour through this surreal volcanic landscape. With pleasant winter temperatures, it’s a comfortable and unforgettable way to learn about the island’s fiery origins.
2. Relax on Playa Blanca’s beaches: This popular resort town boasts golden sandy beaches and a seafront promenade lined with restaurants and shops. January’s mild weather means you can sunbathe or enjoy leisurely beach strolls without the high-season crowds.
3. Visit Jameos del Agua and Cueva de los Verdes: These interconnected volcanic caves were transformed by artist César Manrique into cultural attractions featuring underground lakes, natural concert halls, and otherworldly rock formations. Exploring them is both educational and atmospheric, especially in the quieter winter months.
4. Sample local wines in La Geria wine region: Tour the island’s unique vineyards, where vines are grown in volcanic ash and protected by stone walls to trap moisture. You can enjoy wine tastings at scenic bodegas, learning about Lanzarote’s distinct winemaking methods while soaking up volcanic views.

5. Algarve, Portugal

Best for: Cliffside beaches, golf breaks and peaceful coastal towns

Don’t miss: Benagil Cave - a breathtaking sea cave with a naturally lit dome, only accessible by boat or kayak.

Average Temperature in January: 8°C - 16°C

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Portuguese
• Timezone: GMT
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 3 hours
• Average price of a beer: €2 - €3

An Algarve holiday in January is ideal for those wanting a mild climate, dramatic scenery, and a slower pace of life. With fewer tourists around, you’ll have more room to enjoy the golden beaches, local food, and charming villages that make this region such a year-round favourite.

What can you do in the Algarve?

1. Marvel at the coastal cliffs and caves: Take a boat trip along the southern coast to see spectacular limestone formations, hidden beaches, and the famous Benagil Cave. In January, the sea is calm enough for short excursions, and the landscape feels even more majestic without the summer rush.
Tee off at world-class golf courses: The Algarve is home to some of Europe’s best golf resorts, offering lush greens and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. With cooler temperatures and fewer players, it’s a perfect time for a relaxing golf getaway.
2. Wander the cobbled streets of Lagos: This historic town blends Moorish architecture with a lively marina and quaint cafés, making it a joy to explore on foot. In the off-season, it’s easier to appreciate its charm without crowds, and you can enjoy peaceful moments along the city walls or at the fortress.
3. Indulge in fresh seafood by the sea: Enjoy grilled sardines, octopus salad, and cataplana in a beachfront taverna where the food is as fresh as the sea breeze. Winter brings a more authentic dining experience, with locals taking centre stage and restaurant staff having time for warm conversations.

6. Egypt

Best for: Ancient wonders, desert sunshine and cultural adventure

Don’t miss: The temples of Abu Simbel - colossal monuments carved out of rock, relocated piece by piece to save them from rising waters.

Average Temperature in January: 10°C - 22°C

• Currency: Egyptian Pound (EGP)
• Language: Arabic
• Timezone: GMT+2
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 5h 25m
• Average price of a beer: EGP 50 - 70

An Egypt holiday in January offers the perfect escape for sun-seekers and history lovers alike. With pleasantly warm days and cooler nights, it’s an ideal time to explore ancient temples, cruise along the Nile, and enjoy the desert's golden glow without the scorching summer heat.

What can you do in Egypt?

1. Explore the pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx: Stand face to face with one of the world’s oldest and most iconic wonders, just outside bustling Cairo. The dry, sunny weather in January makes it far more comfortable to take in the grandeur and mystery of these historic monuments.
2. Cruise the Nile between Luxor and Aswan: A river cruise offers a slow-paced journey through Egypt’s heart, passing temples, tombs, and fertile farmlands. With fewer tourists onboard during winter, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful and enriching experience.
3. Visit the Valley of the Kings: Wander through elaborately painted tombs that once housed Egypt’s mighty pharaohs, including Tutankhamun. With cooler temperatures and smaller crowds, it’s easier to fully absorb the stories and artistry that line the stone corridors.
4. Relax at the Red Sea in Hurghada or Sharm El Sheikh: If you’re after some January beach weather, Egypt’s coastal resorts deliver warm sunshine, turquoise water, and fantastic snorkelling opportunities. Spend your days swimming with colourful fish or simply soaking up rays with a cocktail in hand.

7. Bali, Indonesia

Best for: Exotic nature, spiritual retreats and cultural richness

Don’t miss: Tegalalang Rice Terraces - iconic emerald-green slopes offering postcard-perfect views and serene walks.

Average Temperature in January: 24°C – 31°C

• Currency: Indonesian Rupiah (IDR)
• Language: Indonesian
• Timezone: GMT+8
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 16h 30m (with a stopover)
• Average price of a beer: IDR 35,000 - IDR 60,000

A Bali holiday in January is perfect if you're chasing tropical warmth, lush scenery and a completely different pace of life. Yes, it’s the wet season, but showers tend to be short-lived and make the landscapes even more vibrant — making it ideal for a dreamy, affordable escape after the festive rush.

What can you do in Bali?

1. Visit Ubud for art, culture, and jungle vibes: This cultural heart of Bali is known for its artisan markets, monkey forests, and peaceful temples tucked into dense greenery. The rain adds a mystical touch to the rice paddies and forest trails, creating an unforgettable backdrop for spiritual or creative exploration.
2. Relax on the beaches of Seminyak or Uluwatu: Bali’s beaches cater to every mood — whether you fancy chic beach clubs, dramatic cliffside views or laid-back surf towns. Even in January, you’ll enjoy warm sea breezes and plenty of sun between tropical showers.
3. Explore ancient temples like Tanah Lot and Besakih: These iconic landmarks are perched on cliffs, near lakes, or high on misty slopes, offering a deep sense of tranquillity and tradition. Visiting during the quieter post-holiday period lets you soak up the sacred atmosphere without large tour groups.
4. Take a Balinese cooking class or yoga retreat: Whether you want to master a spicy sambal or unwind with sunrise yoga in the jungle, Bali offers countless immersive experiences. January’s quieter pace makes it the perfect time to slow down and focus on wellbeing or learning something new.

8. Las Vegas, USA

Best for: Bold entertainment, buzzing nightlife and unique desert attractions

Don’t miss: The Bellagio Fountains - a dazzling water show choreographed to music and lights, free to watch day and night.

Average Temperature in January: 4°C - 15°C

• Currency: US Dollar ($)
• Language: English
• Timezone: GMT-8
• Flight duration from Gatwick airport: 10h 55m
• Average price of a beer: $5 - $8

A Las Vegas holiday in January is ideal for those who want big energy without the desert heat. With lower prices, smaller crowds, and everything from casinos to canyon tours on offer, it’s a brilliant time to experience the city’s electric vibe without breaking the bank.

What can you do in Las Vegas?

1. Catch a world-class show on the Strip: From Cirque du Soleil to A-list concerts and Broadway productions, Vegas brings entertainment at its finest every night. In January, ticket prices are more reasonable, and the venues are easier to book last minute.
2. Take a day trip to the Grand Canyon: Embark on a guided tour or helicopter ride to see one of the world’s greatest natural wonders with crisp winter air and fewer visitors. The cooler temperatures make hiking and sightseeing far more pleasant than during the scorching summer months.
3. Explore themed hotels and indoor attractions: Wander through replicas of Venice, Paris, and ancient Rome without stepping outdoors, thanks to Vegas’ famously extravagant resorts. These immersive spaces are perfect for escaping chilly evenings while still soaking up the spectacle.
4. Dine at celebrity chef restaurants and quirky food spots: Las Vegas has become a foodie hotspot with a vast range of upscale dining and wild-themed eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for a gourmet tasting menu or a giant slice of rainbow cake, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

January is a brilliant month to start the year with a refreshing escape, whether you're after winter sun, cultural adventures or a peaceful break from the post-festive lull. Snap up an unbeatable deal with Wowcher and secure your spot before prices rise. From tropical beaches to dazzling cities, we’ve got you covered. Don’t forget to explore our other travel guides for even more holiday inspiration.