Weather in January in France
Considering a trip to France this January and wondering about the expected weather conditions? Find all the crucial information you need right here, addressing your question:
What is the weather like in France in January?
The weather in France in January can be quite varied, with temperatures that range from very cold to mild and precipitation levels ranging from moderate to heavy. The month of January is in the winter season.
Temperatures
The average maximum daytime temperatures vary from very cold in Aussois at -5°C to mild in Bonifacio at 14°C. Nighttime temperatures generally drop to 10°C in Bonifacio and -13°C in Aussois. In general, this month stands out as the coldest period throughout the year. Given the lower temperatures, it's essential to be well-prepared. Packing the right winter clothing and necessary accessories can make a significant difference in ensuring your comfort and well-being during this chilly season.
Precipitation
In January, precipitation varies across different areas. From moderate rainfall in Esparron-de-Verdon with an average of 52 mm to heavy rainfall in Servoz with 163 mm.Average sunshine
Paris experiences limited sunny days, amounting to roughly 63 hours of sunshine. This makes it perfect for those who prefer dimmer, cloudier settings rather than intense sunlit daysFor specific regional insights in France for January, refer to the map provided below. For an in-depth overview of the yearly weather conditions, do visit our France climate page.
Where to go in France in January
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Popular destinations
What is the weather like in January for the 5 most popular destinations in France?
Paris
In January Paris generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 8°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 2°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Cannes
In January Cannes generally has moderate temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 12°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 6°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are unpleasant that month.
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Nice
In January Nice generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 12°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 5°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are unpleasant that month.
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Lyon
In January Lyon generally has low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around 8°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around 1°C and moderate monthly rainfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
In January Chamonix-Mont-Blanc generally has very low temperatures with maximum daytime temperatures around -3°C, minimum nighttime temperatures around -12°C and high monthly snowfall. So on average the conditions are poor that month.
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Is your destination not in the list? Have a look at other destinations in France.
Is January the best time to visit France?
In our opinion, January may not be the ideal time to visit France due to the typically poor weather in Paris.
Generally speaking, the best visiting conditions can be found in May, June, July, August and September offering mostly perfect weather in Paris. In contrast, January, February and December tend to have poor weather conditions.
Interested in more climate information?
We have much more information about the climate in France.
Interested in the weather conditions in a specific month? Select the month below.
Weather and climate has detailed information for every country in the world. Are you going to France? Get detailed historical weather averages for many cities in France.
Not sure yet where to go? We now have a tool which recommends destinations that suit your ideal travel conditions. Find out where to go with our weather planner.