Planning a winter getaway this January? From snow-capped Alpine peaks to enchanting Northern Lights, January offers some of the most magical winter experiences around the globe.
Whether you’re dreaming of swooshing down world-class slopes, soaking in steamy hot springs surrounded by snow, these destinations promise unforgettable winter adventures.
Discover our handpicked selection of the 10 most breathtaking countries that truly shine in their winter glory below!
Best Winter Places to Visit in January
Looking for the best places to visit in January for some winter activities and fun? Check out these destinations of where to go in January for colder weather.
1. Switzerland
Weather in January: Average temperatures -5°C to 2°C, regular snowfall in the Alps, crisp sunny days at higher altitudes.
Switzerland ranks among the best winter places to visit in January, offering a perfect blend of alpine adventure and cozy mountain culture.
Zermatt is known for its challenging slopes but also offers many intermediate trails as well as plenty of time to soak up the incredible scenery.
Beyond skiing, Switzerland offers unique experiences like the Glacier Express scenic train journey, which winds through snow-covered valleys and mountain passes.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Grindelwald, where the majestic Eiger North Face provides a stunning backdrop for winter hiking and snowshoeing adventures.
The charming city of Lucerne combines winter beauty with cultural experiences, its medieval architecture enhanced by a dusting of snow.
Moreover, Interlaken is another great place to explore; here you can take part in various thrilling sports such as snow tubing, snowshoeing, tobogganing, and ice skating – all perfect for those looking for an adrenaline rush!
2. Germany
Weather in January: Average temperatures -3°C to 4°C, frequent snowfall in southern regions and at higher elevations, occasional rain in northern areas.
Germany presents a captivating winter landscape where historic architecture and modern winter sports facilities blend seamlessly.
Winter destinations in January don’t get more atmospheric than Neuschwanstein Castle dusted in snow, or the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen with its world-class ski facilities.
The Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, offers spectacular winter activities and views.
Oberwiesenthal, nestled at the foot of Fichtelberg near the Czech border, holds the title of Germany’s highest-altitude town at 915 meters above sea level.
Near Dresden, you will find Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) which offer pristine slopes and cross-country skiing trails, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
3. Slovenia
Weather in January: In January, the weather in Slovenia is cold, especially in the mountainous areas. The temperature ranges between -10°C (14°F) and +10°C (50°F), and it often snows.
Slovenia is a small underrated European country in the southern part of Central Europe.
Lake Bled looks particularly magical in January, its famous island church surrounded by frozen waters and snow-capped peaks.
The Julian Alps provide excellent skiing opportunities at resorts like Kranjska Gora, Vogel, and Rogla.
Ljubljana, the capital, combines Central European charm with intimate winter festivals and markets.
Adventure seekers should head to Triglav National Park for winter hiking and ice climbing opportunities.
Slovenia is a really friendly destination in Europe, and you will find people are welcoming to travelers there.
4. Austria
Weather in January: Being the coldest month of the year, temperatures range between 41 and 14 Fahrenheit (ca. -10 degrees Celsius). Snow is assured in January, especially in the mountains.
Austria shines as one of the premier cold places to visit in January, where imperial history meets world-class winter sports.
The Tyrolean Alps offer some of Europe’s finest skiing, with resorts like Kitzbühel and St. Anton drawing winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe.
Vienna transforms into a cultural winter wonderland, with its famous coffee houses serving as warm refuges and its palaces hosting elegant winter balls.
Salzburg’s baroque architecture looks particularly stunning under a blanket of snow, while the Salzkammergut region offers picturesque winter landscapes and thermal spas.
5. Canada
Weather in January: Temperatures in January vary from province to province. But generally, most Canadian cities will experience temperatures falling somewhere between – 0°C and -15°C in January.
Spanning massive territories of pristine winter landscapes, Canada offers unparalleled opportunities for winter adventure.
From the Rocky Mountains of Banff National Park to the frozen wonder of Niagara Falls, winter activities abound.
Quebec City stands out with its European charm and Winter Carnival, while Whistler Blackcomb provides world-class skiing.
The Rideau Canal in Ottawa transforms into the world’s largest skating rink, and Jasper National Park offers dark sky preserves perfect for stargazing.
Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights in Churchill, Manitoba, or experience ice wine harvesting in Ontario’s wine region.
6. Sweden
Weather in January: The average winter temperatures in Sweden are cold, about 29°F (-2°C) in Stockholm. If you travel north to the Arctic Circle, the average drops to 11°F (-12°C). Sweden sees about 7.5 inches (188mm) of snow each January.
Sweden offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and winter sophistication. The country offers a mix of classic cultural activities and outdoor adventures in snowy conditions.
Swedish Lapland offers opportunities for dog sledding, ice fishing, and witnessing the Northern Lights.
The famous ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi provides a unique arctic experience, while Stockholm maintains its cultural vivacity.
The city of Åre provides excellent skiing facilities, while the Stockholm archipelago freezes into a magical landscape perfect for ice skating tours.
Traditional winter markets and festivals keep the Swedish winter culture alive throughout January.
7. Finland
Weather in January: Since January is the peak winter season for Finland, you can expect quite cold weather. Average temperatures around the country range from 20°F to 30°F.
Finland offers an authentic arctic experience with its vast Lapland region leading the way in winter tourism.
Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus, offers unique experiences like reindeer sleigh rides and visits to Santa’s village.
Helsinki combines urban sophistication with winter traditions, including ice swimming followed by traditional sauna sessions.
The glass igloos of Kakslauttanen provide unforgettable Northern Lights viewing experiences, while Nuuksio National Park offers peaceful winter hiking opportunities.
8. Japan
Weather in January: Average temperatures -5°C to 5°C in Hokkaido, 2°C to 10°C in Tokyo, heavy snowfall in mountainous regions, dry and sunny days in cities.
Japan presents a unique fusion of cultural experiences and winter activities in January.
The northernmost island of Hokkaido receives abundant snowfall, creating perfect conditions for skiing in resorts like Niseko.
The Japanese Alps offer opportunities to see the famous snow monkeys bathing in hot springs near Nagano.
Cities like Kyoto take on a special beauty when historic temples are covered in snow, while Tokyo offers a modern winter experience with illuminations and winter festivals.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Japanese onsen (hot springs) surrounded by snow-covered landscapes.
9. Norway
Weather in January: Average temperatures -10°C to 0°C, heavy snowfall, very limited daylight hours, clear nights ideal for Aurora viewing.
Norway stands as a premier winter destination, offering some of the most spectacular Northern Lights viewing opportunities in the world.
The Arctic city of Tromsø serves as a perfect base for winter adventures.
The Norwegian fjords take on a dramatic beauty in winter. The Nigardsbreen blue ice glacier is spectacular to explore, while Oslo combines urban sophistication with easy access to winter sports.
The Lofoten Islands offer stunning Arctic landscapes and traditional fishing village experiences, while Bergen’s UNESCO-listed wharf looks particularly charming under winter skies.
Adventure seekers can try dog sledding in Finnmark or stay in snow hotels near Alta.
10. South Korea
Weather in January: Average temperatures -5°C to 5°C, dry and sunny days, occasional snowfall, particularly in mountainous regions.
South Korea emerges as a fascinating winter destination, blending modern amenities with traditional winter experiences.
The mountainous regions around PyeongChang, offer excellent skiing facilities.
The Hwacheon Sancheoneo Ice Festival draws visitors with its unique ice fishing experiences, while Seoul maintains its dynamic urban energy throughout winter.
Buddhist temples offer peaceful winter retreats, and traditional Korean spas provide warmth and relaxation.
The island of Jeju provides a milder winter experience with its unique volcanic landscapes and cultural sites.
Final Thoughts on Best Winter Places to Visit in January
Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights in Norway, soaking in Japanese onsens, or carving through fresh powder in the Swiss Alps, these winter destinations offer extraordinary experiences that only January can deliver.
Each country brings its own unique blend of natural wonders, cultural festivities, and winter activities, making January an incredible time to embark on your next adventure.
Ready to plan more unforgettable trips? Explore these inspiring travel guides:
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