Geneva Weather in January
During January, Geneva experiences low daytime temperatures of 6°C (43°F) and cooler nights around -2°C (28°F). As part of the winter season, expect quite a bit of snow/rainfall. Around 125 mm (4.9 in) is typical.
Rainfall in Geneva in January
Records from the past 30 years suggest around 15 days of snow/rain, with 125 mm (4.9 in) average for the month. Rainfall intensity is on the higher side this month. Expect more substantial showers rather than light, passing rain.
Temperature in Geneva in January
January in Geneva brings low temperatures, with highs of 6°C (43°F) and nights around -2°C (28°F). During January, you'll experience the winter season. Temperatures remain on the cold side all day. A proper warm jacket is worth having, not just for evenings. With lows of -2°C (28°F), nights are freezing. Packing a spare blanket is worth considering if you're staying somewhere that might not be fully heated. It's generally the coldest month of the year, making it essential to pack warm layers and winter accessories.
Sunshine in Geneva in January
The month has fewer sunny days, with around 61 hours of sunshine.
Average water temperature in January
With water temperatures around 6°C (43°F), swimming isn't really an option for most visitors. The cold sets in quickly and a wetsuit won't fully solve it.If you're looking for dry conditions and comfortable temperatures, January may not be the ideal month to visit Geneva. 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 Geneva's climate page.
Geneva Temperature in January
Min Temperature
-2°C (28°F)
Max Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Water Temperature
6°C (43°F)
Chance of Rain
48%
Precipitation
125 mm (4.9 in)
Rainy days
15 days
Humidity
81%
Sunshine
61 hours
Percentage Sunshine
24%
Daily Historical Temperatures
51-year average (1976-2026)
Based on our historical records, temperatures in Geneva 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 Geneva in January
Browse day-by-day weather records for Geneva spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.
Geneva historical weather extremes in January
Our historical data for Geneva spans 2000 to 2025, revealing these weather extremes.
- Geneva recorded its highest January temperature of 18°C (64°F) on January 25, 2025.
- On January 11, 2003, Geneva saw its coldest January day with temperatures maxing out at -4°C (25°F).
- The coldest night in January in Geneva was on January 28, 2005, with a minimum of -11°C (12°F).
- Peak precipitation in January occurred on January 2, 2001, when 41 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation was measured.
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 →
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What to Wear in Geneva in January
Dress warmly and in layers for your trip to Geneva 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. Expect heavy rainfall, so bring good rain protection and waterproof bags. Expect water temperatures of around 6°C (43°F), which is definitely too cold for comfortable swimming. Your luggage space is better used for other items. Sunglasses aren't essential this month, though you might want them for the occasional bright moment.What To Do in Geneva 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 Geneva's climate page.
Temperature Rainfall Sunshine Humidity Water Temp
See the full Geneva climate overview or explore weather in Switzerland.
