Seeking a magical winter wonderland experience in Europe?
January offers the perfect opportunity to explore snow-covered landscapes, charming alpine villages, and world-class winter sports destinations.
From the majestic Swiss Alps to the enchanting Austrian countryside, here are twelve of the most breathtaking European destinations that guarantee a snowy escape.
Best European Winter Places to Visit in January
Looking for the best places in Europe to visit in January for some winter activities, snow and fun?
Check out these destinations of where in Europe to go in January for colder weather.
1. Zermatt, Switzerland
Weather in January: -6°C (21°F) to 2°C (35°F)
Snow Probability: Very High
Nestled beneath the iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt transforms into a pristine winter paradise in January.
With its car-free cobblestone streets and the iconic Matterhorn as a backdrop, Zermatt is regularly crowned the prettiest place in Switzerland.
This car-free village offers:
- Over 360km of meticulously groomed ski slopes suitable for all levels
- Europe’s highest ski resort at Klein Matterhorn (3,883m)
- Spectacular mountain dining experiences with panoramic views
- Charming horse-drawn sleigh rides through snow-covered streets
- Year-round glacier skiing opportunities
The village’s traditional wooden chalets, dusted with fresh snow, create a picture-perfect alpine atmosphere that epitomizes Swiss winter charm.
2. Val Thorens, France
Average January Temperature: -14°C (6°F) to -5°C (23°F)
Snow Probability: Very High
Perched at an impressive 2,300 meters in the heart of the Three Valleys, Val Thorens stands as Europe’s highest resort town, where snow-sure conditions and breathtaking vistas create an unparalleled winter playground.
Europe’s highest ski resort guarantees excellent snow conditions with:
- 600km of interconnected slopes
- Modern lift system
- Snow-sure conditions until May
- Extensive off-piste opportunities
- Purpose-built convenience
- Spectacular mountain views
3. Hallstatt, Austria
Average January Temperature: -4°C (25°F) to 2°C (35°F)
Snow Probability: High
Perched on the edge of a crystalline lake and surrounded by towering Alpine peaks, Hallstatt transforms into an ethereal winter wonderland during January.
This fairy-tale village, with its centuries-old salt mining heritage, offers visitors a glimpse into authentic Austrian mountain life.
January visitors can experience:
- Breathtaking lake views surrounded by snow-capped mountains
- Traditional Austrian winter cuisine in cozy lakeside restaurants
- Access to nearby Dachstein-West ski area
- Winter hiking trails with stunning photo opportunities
- Cultural tours of the world’s oldest salt mine
- Serene boat rides on the partially frozen lake
The combination of historical architecture and natural winter beauty makes Hallstatt one of Europe’s most photographed winter destinations.
4. Chamonix, France
Average January Temperature: 0°C (32°F) to 5°C (41°F)
Snow Probability: Very High
Sheltered in a dramatic valley beneath the majestic Mont Blanc, this hidden gem in France, pulses with the energy of alpine adventure and centuries of mountaineering history.
Chamonix in the winter offers:
- World-renowned off-piste skiing opportunities
- The spectacular Aiguille du Midi cable car experience
- Historic mountain town atmosphere
- Unique ice climbing experiences
- Stunning winter hiking trails
- The famous Vallée Blanche glacier ski run
This legendary resort town, birthplace of alpine climbing, draws winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the globe.
5. Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
Weather in January: -6°C (21°F) to 3°C (37°F)
Snow Probability: High
Steeped in Bavarian tradition and crowned by Germany’s highest peak, this former Olympic host town sits like a painted masterpiece against the dramatic backdrop of the Wetterstein mountains.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers the following outdoor adventures:
- Access to Germany’s highest peak, the Zugspitze
- Over 40km of groomed ski slopes
- Historic painted facades covered in snow
- Olympic ski jump facility tours
- Spectacular winter hiking trails
- Traditional Bavarian winter festivals
With its perfect blend of Olympic heritage, pristine slopes, and painted fairy-tale streets beneath Germany’s highest peak, it’s easy to see why many consider Garmisch-Partenkirchen one of the best mountain towns in Europe.
6. Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Weather in January: -6°C (21°F) to 3°C (37°F)
Snow Probability: High
Tucked away in the heart of the Julian Alps, this charming Slovenian resort town offers an intimate alpine experience away from the crowds of larger European destinations.
This hidden gem in Slovenia provides the following affordable winter experiences:
- Family-friendly ski slopes with reliable snow conditions
- Pristine cross-country skiing trails
- Ice climbing opportunities in Triglav National Park
- Traditional Slovenian mountain huts serving warming cuisine
- Easy access to both Italian and Austrian winter resorts
- Spectacular frozen waterfalls in the Vrata Valley
Where Slovenia meets Austria and Italy, Kranjska Gora sits like a winter jewel in the Julian Alps, blending three distinct cultures in its snow-covered setting.
7. Courchevel, France
Average January Temperature: -10°C (14°F) to -1°C (30°F)
Snow Probability: Very High
Nestled in the heart of the world’s largest ski area, Courchevel (comprises four distinct villages) showcases French alpine luxury with its Michelin-starred restaurants and pristine snow conditions.
Winter activities in January include:
- 600km of interconnected slopes in Les Trois Vallées
- Legendary fine dining scene with 11 Michelin stars
- Designer boutiques and luxury chalets
- Family-friendly beginner slopes
- Heated pavements for comfortable village strolls
- Private altiport for jet-set arrivals
8. Cervinia, Italy
Average January Temperature: -7°C (19°F) to -1°C (30°F)
Snow Probability: Very High
Perched beneath the Italian face of the Matterhorn (known here as Monte Cervino), Cervinia represents Italian mountain charm at its finest.
Here, visitors can enjoy high-altitude skiing and breathtaking views while paying significantly less than at its Swiss neighbor Zermatt.
- Access to year-round glacier skiing
- Connected to Zermatt’s ski area with 360km of combined slopes
- Authentic mountain restaurants serving traditional Italian cuisine
- More affordable than other major Alpine resorts
- Guaranteed snow from November to May
- Panoramic Matterhorn views from the Italian side
9. St. Moritz, Switzerland
Average January Temperature: -16°C (3°F) to -2°C (28°F)
Snow Probability: Very High
Basking in 300 days of sunshine annually, St. Moritz stands as one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland, where glamorous slopes descend to spectacular frozen lakes.
This glamorous alpine resort town provides:
- Exclusive winter sports facilities
- Frozen lake activities including cricket and polo
- Luxury shopping and dining experiences
- Historic bobsled run
- Spectacular winter walking trails
- World-class spa facilities
10. Kitzbühel, Austria
Average January Temperature: -1°C (30°F) to 5°C (41°F)
Snow Probability: High
Famous for its challenging Hahnenkamm downhill race, Kitzbühel offers:
- 179km of perfectly groomed slopes
- Medieval town center with painted buildings
- Legendary après-ski scene
- Cross-country skiing trails
- Traditional Tyrolean hospitality
- Winter hiking paths
11. Verbier, Switzerland
Average January Temperature: -2°C (28°F) to 3°C (37°F)
Snow Probability: Very High
Sitting on a sun-drenched plateau in the heart of the Swiss Alps, Verbier attracts serious skiers and the international jet set with its challenging terrain and vibrant après-ski scene.
This glamorous resort offers some of the best off-piste skiing in Europe.
Here is a list of some fun winter activities to enjoy in January:
- 410km of marked runs in the Four Valleys area
- World-famous off-piste and backcountry terrain
- Legendary après-ski and nightlife scene
- Luxury chalets and high-end restaurants
- Perfect for advanced and expert skiers
- Spectacular Mont Blanc views
12. Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Average January Temperature: -3°C (26°F) to 3°C (37°F)
Snow Probability: High
Crowned by the pink-hued spires of the Dolomites, Cortina d’Ampezzo embodies the perfect fusion of Italian dolce vita and alpine adventure.
The “Queen of the Dolomites” offers:
- UNESCO World Heritage mountain scenery
- Historic town center
- Olympic skiing heritage
- Excellent Italian cuisine
- Stylish shopping
- Beautiful winter walks
Final Thoughts on Visiting Europe in January
These European winter destinations offer more than just skiing opportunities – they provide immersive winter experiences combining natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re seeking extreme sports or peaceful snow-covered landscapes, these locations deliver unforgettable January memories.
Remember to check current weather conditions and resort operations before booking, as snow conditions can vary year to year, even in these traditionally snowy destinations.
Ready to plan your winter adventure? Explore more of our travel guides:
- Complete Europe Travel Guide – Find everything you need to know about traveling in Europe
- Best Countries in the World to Visit in January for Snow – Discover more snowy destinations worldwide
- Hot Places to Go in January for a Summer Trip – Escape winter for sunny shores
- Best Cities to Visit in Europe in Winter – Enjoy a wonderful winter vacation
