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The 10 warmest European destinations to visit in January

A study by Omio revealed the warmest destination in January, with an average temperature of 16C. Two beautiful European cities, just a few hours from the UK, offer blue skies and highs of 16C at this time of the year.

Travelling in January is a great option for those seeking a budget-friendly and relaxing holiday, with fewer crowds and lower flight and hotel prices. Travel experts at Conquestmaps explained: "During the peak season, your dream destinations might come with a hefty price tag. However, January offers a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on the experience. You'll find yourself enjoying the same experiences with fewer crowds and more money in your pocket."

There are plenty of things to do in Brussels in January, including the Royal Greenhouses of Laeken, the Atomium at sunset and the Winter Wonders Ice Skating Rink.

January is one of the best months to visit Paris with fewer tourists, lower prices, and the Paris winter sales. Travel blogger Misadventureswithandi said: "I feel it is one of the best months to experience the city. Mists of cold engulf the City of Light, and for the most part, the sky is clear and bright, and the air is crisper too."

Getyourguide said: "January in Vienna is a magical time to explore this historic city, offering a winter escape with smaller crowds and plenty of festive charm. From elegant balls in grand venues like Hofburg Palace to ice skating at the Viennese Ice Dream, winter in Vienna is full of cultural events and classic Viennese experiences."

January in Dublin can be a magical escape, as according to Visitdublin, it is the perfect month to visit the city. "The city still has that wintery charm, with frosty mornings and cosy pubs that beckon you when the light fades. January is traditionally a quieter month for visitors, meaning it's far easier to get a restaurant reservation or to wander around an art gallery in peace."

January is one of the coldest months of the year in Madrid, with highs of 10C, but it's still relatively mild compared to many other places in Europe. According to Viator, some of the best things to see in the Spanish city include the Royal Palace, El Retiro Park, Plaza Mayor and El Prado museum.

The beautiful Italian city reaches 13C in January, offering an ideal climate to visit iconic landmarks like the Colosseum. Travel experts at Omio said: "From golden-hour views and amber trees at Il Giardino Degli Aranci to authentic bites at locals' favourite Forno Monteforte, winter visitors can enjoy the charm of the Eternal City at its most relaxed."

For those looking for a warm escape with a side of ancient history, Athens has one of Europe's warmest winter climates at 14C. "Travellers can explore the Acropolis, wander the Temple of Athena Nike, or enjoy crowd - and selfie-stick - free museum visits. And for a dose of island life worthy of a Mamma Mia reboot, the Port of Piraeus offers easy ferry routes to nearby islands like Aegina, just an hour away."

Lisbon is one of Europe's most popular winter destinations thanks to its 15C temperatures. The beautiful city boasts pastel coloured architecture and delicious food. The travel experts said: "It's scenic, miradouros and vibrant streets stay lively year-round. You can also travel onwards from Lisbon to Porto from as little as £4, making it perfect for adding another sun-kissed stop to a January getaway."

Nicosia has an average January high of 16C. Cyprus' capital offers "warm afternoons, al fresco dining and long strolls", where travellers can walk through centuries of history. "From the iconic Venetian walls to Büyük Han, Nicosia offers an effortless mid-winter reset for travellers craving daylight and mild weather."

Valetta is the ideal warm-weather escape, with highs of 16C in January. The culture-rich capital has "bright blue skies and Mediterranean sea views". The experts said: "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."

A holidaymaker said on Tripadvisor: "We recently had the pleasure of visiting Valletta, Malta's enchanting capital, and what an experience it was! I felt compelled to share the magic we encountered on this journey, especially for those planning their first visit to Valletta."