Germany in January: Weather, Fun Festivals & Travel Tips

Germany Weather in January – Temperature, Rain & Snow

January is the coldest month in Germany. The lowest temperatures of the year are often measured in the second half of the month in particular. The average temperature is 30.92°F/-0.6 °C. At night, temperatures can drop below 14°F/-10 °C, especially in the east and south and in the low mountain ranges. There, the thermometer often does not rise above the freezing point during the day. In contrast, it remains mild in the north-west and along the Rhine. Under the influence of the nearby sea, precipitation still falls there mainly as rain; in the other regions snow predominates, which can also stay longer. The best winter sports conditions often prevail in the mountainous regions. However, descents into the valley are only possible in the Black Forest, in the Bavarian Forest and in the Alps.

January precipitation falls 16 days a month. With an average of 54 mm, January in Germany is a rather dry month.

Due to the short days, January gets little sunshine. In addition, there is fog in the lowlands. The North German lowlands have the shortest duration at 50 hours. In the low mountain ranges it is 75 hours. The record is usually reached by Germany’s highest mountain, the Zugspitze, with 115 hours.

Average temperature in Germany in January

Highest average temperature in January: 37.94°F/3.3 °C, in the south-west of North Rhine-Westphalia, on the border with the Netherlands

Medium average temperature for Germany in January: 30.92°F/-0.6 °C

Lowest average temperature in Germany in January: 14.54°F/-9.7 °C, in the region around the Zugspitze in southern Bavaria, on the border with Austria

Highest temperature in Germany in January

Maximum monthly high temperature in Germany in January: 42.8°F/6.0 °C, in the southwest of North Rhine-Westphalia, on the border with the Netherlands

Average high temperature in January: 35.42°F/1.9 °C

Lowest value for the monthly maximum temperature in January: 19.76°F/-6.8 °C, in the region around the Zugspitze in southern Bavaria, on the border with Austria

Night temperature in Germany in January

Highest monthly night temperature in January: 33.26°F/0.7 °C, in the southwest of North Rhine-Westphalia, on the border with the Netherlands

average night temperature for Germany in January: 26.42°F/-3.1 °C

Lowest monthly night temperature in Germany in January: 8.96°F/-12.8 °C, in the region around the Zugspitze in southern Bavaria, on the border with Austria

Precipitation in Germany in January

Highest precipitation in January: 169 mm, in the Sauerland / Rothaargebirge (eastern North Rhine-Westphalia, on the border with Hesse)

Average rain in January: 54 mm

Lowest rainfall in January: 26 mm, in central Thuringia

Call of the Mountains in Germany

Have you ever thought about hitting the slopes in Germany during the month of January? Trust me, it’s an experience you don’t want to miss!

From posh resorts like Garmisch-Partenkirchen to more family-friendly spots in the Bavarian Forest, Germany has something to offer for everyone when it comes to skiing or snowboarding.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for a black diamond challenge, or a beginner who’s just starting to learn the ropes, there’s a track for every level of experience.

The scenery in the German mountains is absolutely breathtaking, and you’ll feel invigorated by the fresh mountain air as you glide down the slopes.

Plus, the snow in January is usually at its best, so you can expect excellent skiing conditions. But even if you’re not a skier or snowboarder, there are still plenty of things to do in the mountains.

Take a scenic walk through the snow-covered forests, or warm up with a hot cocoa in a cozy mountain lodge. You might even get lucky and spot some local wildlife, like deer or foxes.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your ski or board and head to the mountains in Germany this January. It’s an adventure you won’t soon forget!