A new analysis has pinpointed the European destinations offering the warmest refuge from the British winter in January 2026. The study, conducted by the travel booking platform Omio, crunched temperature data across the continent to identify the cities with the most inviting climates for a mid-winter break.
The Toasty Capitals Topping the List
The research crowned two capital cities as joint winners for the warmest January weather. Valletta in Malta and Nicosia in Cyprus both boast average high temperatures of a pleasant 16°C. This positions them as ideal short-haul escapes for British travellers seeking daylight and mild conditions without a long-haul flight.
Malta's stunning capital, Valletta, promises bright blue skies and captivating Mediterranean sea views throughout the month. Travel specialists highlight that its winter days feel more like an early spring, perfect for exploring the historic harbour, taking a ferry to neighbouring islands, or enjoying a meal with panoramic coastal vistas.
The destination's charm has even drawn comparisons to more tropical locales. One recent visitor on Tripadvisor enthusiastically described Valletta as "the Caribbean in Europe," praising its narrow streets, historical architecture, and laid-back, sun-drenched atmosphere.
An Effortless Winter Reset
Cyprus's capital, Nicosia, matches Valletta's average of 16°C, making it the continent's strongest bet for warm afternoons suited to al fresco dining and long strolls. The city offers a journey through centuries of history, from its iconic Venetian walls to the historic Büyük Han caravanserai.
Experts note that with direct transport connections and smooth onward travel, Nicosia provides an effortless mid-winter reset. It's a straightforward destination for those craving a reliable dose of sunshine and milder weather close to home.
The Full Top Ten for Winter Sun Seekers
The Omio study ranked a full list of European cities based on their projected warmth for January 2026. Following the two leading capitals, the top ten is completed by a mix of southern European favourites and some surprising entrants.
The full ranking is as follows:
- Valletta, Malta
- Nicosia, Cyprus
- Lisbon, Portugal
- Athens, Greece
- Rome, Italy
- Madrid, Spain
- Dublin, Ireland
- Vienna, Austria
- Paris, France
- Brussels, Belgium
This data offers a valuable early insight for holidaymakers planning their travel well in advance, highlighting that a genuine winter sun experience is readily available within a short flight from the UK.
