Basel Weather in January
Basel in January averages 6°C (43°F) during the day and -1°C (30°F) at night. This is part of the winter season, and quite a bit of snow/rainfall is expected this month.
Rainfall in Basel in January
On average, there are about 15 days with snow/rain during this month, averaging 86 mm (3.4 in). The rainfall pattern this month is fairly balanced. Showers tend to be moderate rather than extreme.
Temperature in Basel in January
In January, Basel gets low temperatures, with highs of 6°C (43°F). Nights cool to around -1°C (30°F). January is typically considered a winter month. Temperatures remain on the cold side all day. A proper warm jacket is worth having, not just for evenings. With overnight lows of -1°C (30°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 Basel in January
The city usually sees around 63 hours of sunlight, indicating fewer sunny days.If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Basel. 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 Switzerland, check out our Basel's climate page.
Basel Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-1°C (30°F)
Max Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Chance of Rain
51%
Precipitation
86 mm (3.4 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
81%
Sunshine
63 hours
Percentage Sunshine
28%
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Basel typically stay consistent throughout January, with daily highs averaging around 6°C (43°F). Nights are very cold, with lows around -1°C (30°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 Basel in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Basel spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Basel historical weather extremes in January
According to our 25 years of weather records for Basel, the following extremes were recorded between 2000 and 2025.
- Basel recorded its highest January temperature of 17°C (63°F) on January 1, 2023.
- The lowest daytime temperature in January was -6°C (21°F), recorded on January 10, 2003.
- Basel registered its coldest January night on January 12, 2003, with temperatures dropping to -12°C (10°F).
Best Places in Switzerland in January
Find out more about the weather in Switzerland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Switzerland in January →
perfect weather
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unpleasant
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What to Wear in Basel 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. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.What To Do in Basel 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 Switzerland, check out our Basel's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity
See the full Basel climate overview or explore weather in Switzerland.
