The warmest European cities to visit in January named - and flights cost just £37

Booking platform Omio analysed temperature data across all European capitals to uncover the cities offering the warmest weather, and the best chance of a mood-boosting escape at the start of 2026.

Cities in Malta and Cyprus were joint first, both boasting pleasant January temperatures of around 16°C. Flights to Valletta take 3hr 15m from London, and the cheapest flights are £37 at the time of writing.

Warmest European capitals in January

• Valletta, Malta (16 °C)
• Nicosia, Cyprus (16 °C)
• Lisbon, Portugal (15 °C)
• Athens, Greece (14 °C)
• Rome, Italy (13 °C)
• Madrid, Spain (10 °C)
• Dublin, Ireland (9 °C)
• Vienna, Austria (9 °C)
• Paris, France (8 °C)
• Brussels, Belgium (8 °C)

"Whether wandering the historic harbour of the Port of Valletta, taking the ferry to neighbouring islands, or dining above the coastline at the famous Panorama Restaurant, Valletta's winter days feel more like early spring.

"Matching Valletta’s sunshine score is Nicosia, delivering an average January high of 16°C. Cyprus’ capital is the continent's strongest bet for warm afternoons, al fresco dining and long strolls, where travellers can walk through centuries of history, from the iconic Venetian walls to Büyük Han."

Close behind is Lisbon in Portugal - "consistently one of Europe's most magnetic winter destinations thanks to its 15°C temperatures, pastel coloured architecture and a food scene".

Slightly cooler but enjoyable winter breaks include Madrid in Spain, Vienna in Austria and Brussels in Belgium.

While on the cooler side, the experts recommended them as "culture-rich capitals offering a softer January chill". Holidaymakers can soak in the cities without completely freezing temperatures, with plenty of ways to beat the January blues.

For more 2026 holiday inspiration, experts named the 10 trending destinations, with a historical British city making the list.