Are you tired of the gloomy winter weather in the UK? Craving some much-needed sunshine and warmth? We've got you covered with our list of cheap January holidays in 2025. But in this economy, we need to escape to a sunny paradise without breaking the bank. Especially after the bank-breaking events of Christmas and New Year. So, if you're wondering where is hot in January in Europe and beyond and looking for some cheap January holidays in 2025 that offer plenty of sun, sand and sea, look no further.
Here are some cheap holidays in January that will help you recharge for the year ahead without draining your wallet.
Cheap January Holidays for 2025
1. The Canary Islands
Average temperature in January: 20°C to 33°C
Did you know that the Canary Islands offer year-round sunshine and stunning beaches? Perfect for a winter getaway! Let's explore some affordable options within the Canary Islands:
- Tenerife: This vibrant island boasts warm temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius in January, with even hotter spots reaching up to 33 degrees Celsius. It offers a diverse range of activities, from relaxing on Playa de las Americas to hiking the famous El Teide mountain. Don't miss the thrilling slides at Siam Park if you're seeking adventure!
- Gran Canaria: Known for its popularity among UK travellers, Gran Canaria ensures temperatures never dip below 20 degrees Celsius. The southern part of the island receives over 320 days of sunshine annually, making it a paradise for sun seekers. Spend your days at Playa de Las Canteras or explore the captivating Maspalomas dunes. Don't forget to indulge in some shopping in Las Palmas.
- Lanzarote: If you're after a warm climate, Lanzarote won't disappoint! Its favourable location guarantees temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius throughout winter. For beach lovers, the Papagayo beaches are a must-visit. And if you're up for adventure, explore the fascinating Cueva de los Verdes volcano. Lanzarote offers affordable accommodations and activities, ensuring a budget-friendly escape.
2. Egypt
Average temperature in January: 17°C to 23°C
If you're looking for a January holiday with guaranteed sunshine, Egypt is a fantastic choice. In January, Egypt's coastal regions experience pleasant weather, and the famous cities of Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh offer fantastic beach resorts at budget-friendly prices. Soak up the sun on the Red Sea's pristine beaches, explore vibrant coral reefs through snorkelling or diving excursions, and immerse yourself in the rich history and ancient wonders of nearby Luxor or Cairo.
3. Morocco
Average temperature in January: 14°C to 20°C
Just a short flight from the UK, Morocco offers an enticing mix of vibrant culture, fascinating history, and sunny weather. In January, popular cities like Marrakech and Agadir experience mild temperatures, making them ideal for exploring the vibrant souks, indulging in delicious cuisine, and relaxing on beautiful beaches. Enjoy affordable accommodations, flavorful street food, and unique cultural experiences in this budget-friendly destination.
4. Cyprus
Average temperature in January: 15°C to 18°C
Cyprus is another great cheap January holiday destination known for its Mediterranean charm, ancient ruins, and stunning coastlines. In January, the island experiences mild temperatures, making it an appealing option for a budget-friendly winter escape. Explore the historic sites of Paphos, relax on the picturesque beaches of Ayia Napa, or indulge in traditional Cypriot cuisine in Larnaca. With a range of affordable accommodations and a diverse range of activities, Cyprus offers a sun-soaked getaway without breaking the bank.
4. Greece
Average temperature in January: 10°C to 15°C
Greece is a fantastic option for a budget-friendly January holiday. The country offers a mix of stunning islands and historic mainland destinations with mild winter temperatures. Consider visiting Athens to explore its rich history, ancient ruins, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Alternatively, head to islands like Crete or Rhodes, where you can enjoy picturesque beaches, delicious Greek cuisine, and affordable accommodations. January is a quieter time to visit Greece, making it even more wallet-friendly.
5. Thailand
Average temperature in January: 26°C to 32°C
Thailand may not be the first destination that comes to mind for a cheap January holiday, but it can be surprisingly affordable during this time. While northern regions like Chiang Mai can be cooler, southern destinations like Phuket and Krabi offer pleasant temperatures and sunny skies. You can find budget-friendly accommodations, enjoy delicious street food, and explore the stunning beaches and lush landscapes that Thailand has to offer. Plus, January is a great time for snorkeling and island-hopping in the Andaman Sea.
6. Vietnam
Average temperature in January: 22°C to 30°C
Vietnam is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a cheap January holiday in Southeast Asia. With its diverse landscapes, delicious cuisine, and rich culture, Vietnam has something for everyone. In January, southern cities like Ho Chi Minh City and coastal areas like Nha Trang enjoy pleasant weather. You can explore bustling markets, historic sites, and scenic beaches without breaking the bank. Street food in Vietnam is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it a great cheap January holiday for cost-conscious travellers.
7. Portugal
Average temperature in January: 10°C to 15°C
Portugal offers a great option for a budget-friendly January escape without the need for expensive long-haul flights. Lisbon and Porto, two of the country's major cities, have mild winter temperatures, and you can explore their historic neighbourhoods, enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine, and visit cultural attractions without breaking the bank. Additionally, Portugal's coastal areas, such as the Algarve, offer beautiful beaches and affordable accommodations for a sunny getaway.
8. Ireland
Average temperature in January: 4°C to 9°C
If you're looking for a budget-friendly January holiday even closer to the UK, consider visiting Ireland in January. Dublin, Cork, and other Irish cities offer a unique blend of history, culture, and hospitality. While the weather may be cool and damp, this is a great time to explore charming Irish towns, sip on a pint of Guinness in cosy pubs, and enjoy the stunning Irish landscapes, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry.
9. Tunisia
Average temperature in January: 12°C to 18°C
Tunisia is an excellent destination for a hot cheap January holiday. With temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C in coastal areas like Hammamet and Sousse, you can enjoy sunny days by the Mediterranean. Tunisia offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and beautiful beaches. Explore the ancient city of Carthage, relax at affordable beach resorts, or take a trip into the Sahara Desert for a bucket-list experience.
10. Bilbao, Basque Country
Average temperature in January: 10°C to 15°C
Bilbao, located in the Basque region of Spain, offers a cheap city break in Europe with temperatures around 10°C to 15°C in January. While it might not be as warm as some other cheap January holiday destinations, it’s a great time to explore the cultural highlights like the Guggenheim Museum, charming old town, and scenic riverside walks. Bilbao is known for its pintxos (tapas) culture, where you can enjoy affordable yet delicious meals.
11. Naples, Italy
Average temperature in January: 9°C to 14°C
Although it did suffer from a bad reputation in the past, Naples has come a long way and now boasts a buzzing atmosphere unlike anywhere in Italy or the rest of Europe. What makes it cheap? You can find Italy's favourite aperitivo Aeporal Spritz in the Spanish Quarter for as low as €1, and amazing street food like panzerotti, frittata di pasta and pizza fritta (fried pizza) for around €3. Although you can choose to pay a bit extra to explore Naples' great museums like the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Napoli or tour the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, just walking through Naples' streets is an activity in itself and always provides entertainment. If you need a break from the electricity of the city, take a train to Vesuvius and hike to the top for panoramic views over the Bay of Naples.
12. Albania
Average temperature in January: 10°C to 15°C
Albania is an up-and-coming cheap January holiday boasting incredible natural beauty, stunning coastlines and delicious food. In January, you can wander along beautiful beaches along the Albanian Riviera, visit the UNESCO-listed town of Gjirokastër, or hike in the mountains. Albania remains a cheap January holiday, with dirt-cheap hotels and food and drink options.
Gift Cheap January Holiday with Our Travel Gift Vouchers
These cheap January holidays are perfect for us UK folk yearning to escape the gloomy British winter. And as the old saying goes, the early bird catches the worm, so book as far in advance as possible to get your cheap January holiday 2025 for even cheaper! Afterwards, all you need to worry about is packing your bag and leaving the winter blues behind.
Gift Cheap January Holiday with Our Travel Gift Vouchers
Are you still looking for a fun Christmas or New Year gift for your favourite travel lover? How about one of our travel vouchers for flights? With just one gift card they can book flights with over 400 airlines including:
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All you need to do is customize your travel voucher by adding your own photo and writing a message before choosing a gift card value between £25 - £10,000 (or several other currencies) and choosing a flight gift card format from an eGift (sent via email), a PDF (print at home to give in person) or a luxury gift card (printed on 11-inch silver card and sent in the post for free). So whether they're on the other side of the world or live with you, you can give them a gift card for flights to over 980 destinations worldwide.