Edinburgh
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Edinburgh Weather in January

In Edinburgh, January brings low daytime temperatures around 3°C (37°F), with nights cooling to -6°C (21°F). Expect quite a bit of snow/rainfall this month.

Rainfall in Edinburgh in January

Historically, January sees about 11 days of snow/rain, with a monthly average of 79 mm (3.1 in). When showers do arrive, they tend to be on the heavier side. Worth being prepared even if rain days are not that numerous.

Temperature in Edinburgh in January

January in Edinburgh brings typical temperatures with highs around 3°C (37°F) and lows of -6°C (21°F). January is part of winter. Time outdoors is usually more comfortable with proper winter clothing and protection from wind. With overnight lows of -6°C (21°F), temperatures fall below freezing at night. An extra thick blanket can make a real difference if your accommodation runs cold. Typically, it's the chilliest month of the year. Ensure you're prepared by packing appropriate winter gear.

Sunshine in Edinburgh in January

The city usually sees around 133 hours of sunlight, indicating a moderately sunny period.

Our weather planner can help you find worldwide destinations with pleasant weather during this period. August and September typically offer the best weather for Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Temperature in January

Min Temperature
-6°C (21°F)
Max Temperature
3°C (37°F)
Chance of Rain
37%
Precipitation
79 mm (3.1 in)
Rainy days
11 days
Humidity
75% *
Sunshine
133 hours *
Percentage Sunshine
44% *
* Data from: Indianapolis, the United States of America (48 KM, 30 Miles).

Edinburgh Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Edinburgh - and find the best time to visit.

Best Places in the United States of America in January

Find out more about the weather in the United States of America and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of the United States of America in January →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Edinburgh in January

Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Edinburgh in January. A good base layer system works wonders. Start with good thermal underwear, add something warm like a fleece sweater, then finish with a waterproof jacket on top. Wet weather is likely, so pack waterproof gear for multiple rainy days. Sunglasses could come in handy during the sunnier parts of your trip.

What To Do in Edinburgh in January

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    5/10
  • Cycling
    3/10
  • Walking
    3/10
  • Camping
    1/10
  • Outdoor sports
    3/10

Edinburgh 3-Day Forecast

Popular in January

Where to go in January - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.