Sofia Weather in January
In Sofia, January brings low daytime temperatures around 4°C (39°F), with nights cooling to -5°C (23°F). Some snow/rainfall is to be expected.
Rainfall in Sofia in January
Expect around 7 days of snow/rain based on historical data, with 47 mm (1.9 in) average. Rain days are few and the total is low, so this is a largely dry month. Any showers that do occur tend to be brief.
Temperature in Sofia in January
Daytime highs in Sofia in January reach 4°C (39°F), with nights around -5°C (23°F). January marks the winter season. Staying warm is the main priority this month, especially during mornings and evenings. With overnight lows of -5°C (23°F), temperatures fall below freezing at night. An extra thick blanket can make a real difference if your accommodation runs cold. This month tends to bring the coldest weather of the year, so be sure to pack enough warm clothing to stay comfortable.
Sunshine in Sofia in January
The month has fewer sunny days, with around 86 hours of sunshine.
Wind Speed in Sofia in January
Average wind conditions reach 2 m/s (4 knots) in January. This creates comfortable weather with light winds that gently move vegetation. Keep in mind this is an average. Daily conditions range from near-calm to more noticeable wind.If you prefer dry days with pleasant temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Sofia. Our weather planner can help you explore destinations with more pleasant weather conditions.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Bulgaria, check out our Sofia's climate page.
Sofia Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-5°C (23°F)
Max Temperature
4°C (39°F)
Chance of Rain
22%
Precipitation
47 mm (1.9 in)
Rainy days
7 days
Humidity
77%
Windspeed
2 m/s (4 knots)
Sunshine
86 hours
Percentage Sunshine
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Sofia typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 4°C (39°F). Nights are very cold, with lows typically ranging from -7°C (19°F) to -5°C (23°F).
Average temperatures in January
Daily Historical Precipitation
51-year average (1976-2026)
Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.
Average precipitation in January
Historical weather for Sofia in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Sofia spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Sofia historical weather extremes in January
The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Sofia from 2000 through 2025.
- The hottest January day on record in Sofia reached 18°C (64°F) (January 19, 2023).
- The coldest night in January in Sofia was on January 31, 2012, with a minimum of -22°C (-8°F).
Best Places in Bulgaria in January
Find out more about the weather in Bulgaria and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Bulgaria in January →
perfect weather
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tolerable
unpleasant
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What to Wear in Sofia in January
Cold weather calls for smart layering in January. A thermal base layer makes a huge difference in staying warm. Add a wool sweater or fleece, then a wind-resistant outer jacket. Rain gear is recommended, you can expect wet weather on multiple days. With limited sunshine expected, sunglasses aren't a priority for packing.What To Do in Sofia in January
We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.
Check the conditions for any month of the year.
For a detailed overview over the year and the best time to visit Bulgaria, check out our Sofia's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Wind Speed
See the full Sofia climate overview or explore weather in Bulgaria.
