January Weather in Copenhagen, Denmark

Last updated: August 21, 2025

In Copenhagen during January, the weather presents a chilly yet enchanting winter landscape. With maximum temperatures reaching up to 11°C (52°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), this month features a notable minimum drop to -13°C (9°F). Visitors can expect a total precipitation of 50 mm (2.0 in) across approximately 11 days, contributing to the city's serene, often misty ambiance. The humidity levels are high, around 90%, which can make the cold feel a touch more biting, yet it adds a certain crispness to the invigorating winter air. Ideal for those wanting to experience Copenhagen’s cozy charm, January offers a unique opportunity to explore the city's festive atmosphere amidst its chilly embrace.

January Temperature in Copenhagen

In Copenhagen, Denmark, January brings a chill that sets the tone for winter, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -13°C (9°F) at their lowest to a more moderate 11°C (52°F) as highs. The average temperature hovers around 3°C (37°F), showcasing the stark contrast typical of this time of year. As winter progresses into February, a slight warming trend becomes evident, with minimums easing to -11°C (12°F) and highs reaching 13°C (56°F), indicating that spring is on the horizon. January's bitter cold encapsulates the essence of Nordic winters, while the gradual rise in February temperatures hints at the melting away of winter's grip, paving the way for the early blooms of spring by March. Overall, Copenhagen's January climate lays a frosty foundation for the vibrant seasonal transitions that follow.

January Weather in Copenhagen: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Copenhagen, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Copenhagen, January typically has an average temperature of {2}°C ({3}°F), with highs reaching up to {4}°C ({5}°F) and lows dropping to around {6}°C ({7}°F).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec373639455363646458514439
Data source: Temperature data for Copenhagen generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred temperature unit
The average of daily temperatures (24 hours) calculated across all days in the month.

January Precipitation in Copenhagen

In Copenhagen, Denmark, January marks the onset of winter with an average precipitation of 50 mm (2.0 in), falling over approximately 11 days. This level of rainfall hints at a damp start to the year, setting the stage for a month that bridges the wetness of the cold season with the early signs of thawing ahead. Notably, January's precipitation is only slightly higher than February’s 48 mm (1.9 in), suggesting a relatively stable and consistent pattern in winter rainfall. As spring approaches, precipitation tends to increase, reaching a peak in the summer months, but January itself provides a crucial reminder of the colder season's lingering influence in the city’s weather.

January Precipitation Trends in Copenhagen

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Copenhagen, with values for each month alongside January’s data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the amount of precipitation, providing insights into how January’s conditions compare to those of other months. In Copenhagen, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec504864355345758979834461
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Copenhagen

In January, Copenhagen experiences a high humidity level of 90%, marking the peak of winter’s damp chill. As the season transitions to February and March, humidity begins to decline slightly, hovering around 89% and 88%, respectively. This gradual decrease continues into April with 85%, signaling the onset of spring. May brings further relief as humidity drops to 80%, creating a more comfortable atmosphere. Throughout the summer months of June, July, and August, humidity stabilizes at 77%, offering a brief reprieve. However, as autumn approaches, a noticeable uptick occurs; September sees humidity rising to 83%, and by October, it climbs back to 87%. The trend continues into November and December with humidity levels of 89% and 88%, respectively, highlighting Copenhagen's consistent embrace of moisture as an integral part of its seasonal climate.

January Average Humidity in Copenhagen

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Copenhagen, with January’s data highlighted for easy comparison. It shows the fluctuation in humidity throughout the year, helping you understand how conditions vary by season. In January, average humidity in Copenhagen is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec90%89%88%85%80%77%77%77%84%87%89%88%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Copenhagen

In January, Copenhagen experiences a low UV Index of 1, indicating minimal risk for sun exposure with a burn time of 45 minutes. This trend continues into February, where the UV Index only slightly increases to 2, maintaining the low risk status. As spring approaches in March, the UV Index rises to a moderate 3, prompting a reduction in safe sun exposure time to 30 minutes. By April, the index reaches 5, marking a shift to moderate exposure risks, and this pattern of increasing UV levels continues through the summer months, peaking at 7 in both June and July. As autumn sets in, the UV Index gradually decreases back to a moderate 3 in October, before falling to low levels of 1 by November and December. This seasonal fluctuation highlights the importance of monitoring UV levels throughout the year. For more detailed insights, visit the Copenhagen UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Copenhagen for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Copenhagen in January, representing the highest UV radiation level. The UVI measures the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun, indicating the potential risk of sunburn and UV-related health issues. In January, the maximum UV index in Copenhagen typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec123567765311
Data source: Copenhagen January UVI data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

UV Risk Categories

  •  Extreme (11+): Avoid the sun, stay in shade.
  •  Very High (8-10): Limit sun exposure.
  •  High (6-7): Use SPF 30+ and protective clothing.
  •  Moderate (3-5): Midday shade recommended.
  •  Low (0-2): No protection needed.

January Sunshine in Copenhagen

In Copenhagen, January greets residents with a modest 95 hours of sunshine, setting the stage for the gradual emergence of brighter days. As the months roll on, the sun becomes increasingly generous, with February almost doubling January's light to 186 hours. This trend continues, showcasing a remarkable surge to 258 hours in March and leaping further to 374 hours in April, heralding the vibrant blooms of spring. By May and June, sunshine peaks, with an impressive 428 hours and 452 hours, respectively. Although July sees a slight dip at 448 hours, the warmth remains. As the year transitions to autumn, sunshine begins to wane, tapering off to 404 hours in August and further to 317 hours in September, before dwindling to 143 hours in November and a mere 111 hours in December. This annual dance of daylight encapsulates the charming seasonal shifts that make Copenhagen a unique destination throughout the year.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Copenhagen: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Copenhagen experiences direct sunlight during the month of January, excluding cloudy or obstructed periods. This chart compares the sunshine duration of January with the other months of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec95h186h258h374h428h452h448h404h317h243h143h111h
Data source: Copenhagen January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Copenhagen During January

In Copenhagen, January presents a rather gloomy outlook for sun enthusiasts, with only an 18% chance of sunny weather. This marks the lowest probability for sunshine among the winter months, standing in stark contrast to February's increase to 35%. As spring approaches, the likelihood of clear skies continues to rise, notably hitting 36% by March and soaring to 53% in April. This upward trend highlights a significant shift as the city moves from the darker winter months into the brighter days of spring, making it clear that while January may be a challenge for sun seekers, hope is just a few months away.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Copenhagen

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Copenhagen throughout the year, with January highlighted. It highlights the variation in sunshine across each month and provides an overview of the typical frequency of sunny days, offering insights into how often Copenhagen experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec18%35%37%53%29%44%35%36%30%27%15%23%
Data source: Copenhagen January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Copenhagen in January

In Copenhagen, Denmark, the progression of daylight throughout the year unveils a captivating transformation that mirrors the changing seasons. Starting with a modest 7 hours of daylight in January, the city gradually awakens with an increase to 9 hours by February and a refreshing 11 hours by March. As spring takes hold, daylight stretches to 14 hours in April and peaks at an impressive 17 hours in June, offering long, vibrant days that entice both locals and visitors alike. However, as summer wanes, daylight begins its retreat, descending from 16 hours in July to 14 hours in August, and then tapering off to 12 hours in September. The cycle continues, bringing shorter days in the fall: 10 hours in October and down to just 8 hours by November. Finally, the year concludes as it began, with 7 hours of daylight in December, creating a rhythmic ebb and flow that characterizes life in this enchanting city.

Average Daylight Hours in Copenhagen for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Copenhagen throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec7h 43m9h 36m11h 53m14h 13m16h 17m17h 25m16h 49m14h 56m12h 40m10h 22m8h 15m7h 6m
Data source: Copenhagen daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Copenhagen

In January, the winds of Copenhagen swirl at an average speed of 4.4 m/s (10 mph), setting the tone for a brisk winter month. This gentle but persistent breeze is part of a larger trend where wind speeds remain fairly consistent through the early months of the year, with February and March only slightly increasing to 4.7 m/s (10 mph) and 4.6 m/s (10 mph) respectively. As spring approaches in April, the winds continue this upward trend, maintaining the 4.7 m/s pace. However, as summer rolls in, these winds begin to mellow, dipping to 3.7 m/s (8 mph) by June, before gradually rising again in the autumn. Notably, October brings the strongest gusts at 5.1 m/s (11 mph), emphasizing a refreshing shift in the atmosphere after the summer lull. Throughout the year, the winds exhibit a delightful rhythm, offering a unique charm to Denmark's capital, where each season dances with its own breeze.

Average January Wind Speed in Copenhagen

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Copenhagen, with values for each month shown alongside January's data, which is highlighted for easy comparison. It illustrates the average wind speed, offering insights into how January's wind conditions compare to the rest of the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec4.4 m/s4.74.64.74.23.73.84.43.95.14.84.5
Data source: Copenhagen January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Copenhagen Compares to Other Months

Weather in Copenhagen varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Copenhagen, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.

January and February in Copenhagen showcase a notable similarity in temperature and precipitation, but with slight variations. In January, the weather sees a minimum temperature of -13°C (9°F) and an average of 3°C (37°F), reaching a maximum of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 11 days, along with a high humidity level of 90%. In contrast, February boasts slightly milder temperatures, with a minimum of -11°C (12°F) and an average of 2°C (36°F), peaking at 13°C (56°F). It sees a similar amount of precipitation at 48 mm (1.9 in) over 10 days, while humidity hovers just below January's level at 89%. For a detailed look at the conditions in February, visit Copenhagen weather in February.

In January, temperatures in Copenhagen can drop to a minimum of -13°C (9°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This month sees about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by high humidity levels of 90%. In contrast, March temperatures rise slightly, with minimums around -10°C (14°F), an average of 4°C (39°F), and maximums reaching 16°C (61°F). Precipitation increases to 64 mm (2.5 in) over 12 days, while humidity remains relatively high at 88%. For a detailed look at the weather patterns, you can check out Copenhagen weather in March.

January weather in Copenhagen is characterized by cold temperatures, with a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and an average high of 11°C (52°F). The month sees about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 11 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 90%, creating a damp and chilly atmosphere. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (23°F) to a maximum of 22°C (73°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). Precipitation decreases to 35 mm (1.4 in) over just 8 days, and humidity drops slightly to 85%. For more details on the transition in weather, you can check Copenhagen weather in April. This shift marks the arrival of spring, making April a much more pleasant time to experience the city compared to the harsh winter of January.

January and May present contrasting weather conditions. In January, temperatures can dip as low as -13°C (9°F), with an average of around 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). This month experiences high humidity at 90% and sees precipitation on 11 days, totaling about 50 mm (2.0 in). Conversely, May brings much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 0°C (32°F), an average of 12°C (54°F), and a maximum of 28°C (82°F). Although May has slightly more precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in) and rain on 12 days, the humidity is lower at 80%. For details on what to expect in May, check out Copenhagen weather in May.

In January, the weather is notably cold, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (9°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), accompanied by high humidity levels at 90%. This month typically sees about 50 mm of precipitation over 11 days, making it a damp and chilly period. In contrast, June brings a significant warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a pleasant minimum of 7°C (45°F) to a maximum of 30°C (87°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). The precipitation decreases slightly to 45 mm over just 7 days, and the humidity drops to a more comfortable 77%. For more details on the warmer climate, you can check out Copenhagen weather in June.

January and July present stark contrasts in weather. January features cold temperatures with a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and an average of around 3°C (37°F), while July brings warmth, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 7°C (44°F) to a maximum of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation is relatively low in January at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 11 days compared to July, which sees higher rainfall at 74 mm (2.9 in) across 12 days. Humidity is notably higher in January at 90%, while the summer month of July enjoys a more comfortable 77%. For more details about the temperature and climate, you can check Copenhagen weather in July.

January and August present contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -13°C (9°F) and typically hover around an average of 3°C (37°F), with a maximum reaching 11°C (52°F). The month experiences considerable precipitation, with rain on about 11 days and a high humidity level of 90%. In stark contrast, August boasts much milder temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F), an average of 18°C (64°F), and a maximum peaking at 30°C (87°F). While August sees slightly more precipitation at 89 mm (3.5 in) over 13 days, the humidity is significantly lower at 77%. For a closer look at what to expect, check out Copenhagen weather in August.

January and September present a stark contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -13°C (9°F), with an average of 3°C (37°F) and a maximum of 11°C (52°F). The month experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation across 11 days, coupled with high humidity at 90%. In contrast, September offers a milder climate, with minimum temperatures of 3°C (37°F), an average of 14°C (58°F), and maximums reaching 26°C (78°F). Precipitation increases slightly to 79 mm (3.1 in), also spread across 11 days, but humidity is lower at 83%. For a closer look at September weather in Copenhagen, see Copenhagen weather in September.

In January, the weather is notably colder with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -13°C (9°F) to a maximum of 11°C (52°F), resulting in an average temperature of just 3°C (37°F). The month experiences about 50 mm (2.0 in) of precipitation over 11 days, coupled with high humidity levels at 90%. In contrast, October ushers in milder temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), leading to an average of 11°C (51°F). Despite slightly higher precipitation at 83 mm (3.3 in) and more frequent rainy days (15), the humidity remains relatively high at 87%. For a detailed look at October's weather patterns in the region, check out Copenhagen weather in October.

January and November present contrasting weather patterns, with January typically colder than November. In January, temperatures can plummet to a minimum of -13°C (9°F), while the average hovers around 3°C (37°F), peaking at 11°C (52°F). In contrast, November sees milder conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -6°C (22°F) to an average of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 17°C (63°F). Precipitation in January is slightly higher at 50 mm (2.0 in) over 11 days, compared to November's 44 mm (1.7 in) over 10 days. Both months exhibit high humidity, with January at 90% and November close behind at 89%. For more detailed information, you can check out Copenhagen weather in November.

In January, the weather in Copenhagen is characterized by colder minimum temperatures, dipping as low as -13°C (9°F), compared to December's milder minimum of -7°C (19°F). Both months see a maximum temperature of around 11°C (51°F), but January tends to have a lower average at 3°C (37°F) versus December's average of 4°C (39°F). Precipitation is slightly lower in January, totaling 50 mm (2.0 in) over 11 days, while December experiences 61 mm (2.4 in) across 15 days, contributing to a higher humidity level in January at 90%, compared to December's 88%. For a closer look at December weather, you can check out Copenhagen weather in December.

Compare Copenhagen's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Copenhagen

In January, Copenhagen experiences a distinctive chill that sets it apart from the milder months of the year. With average temperatures hovering around 3°C (37°F), the city is enveloped in a blanket of cool air, making it one of the coldest times to visit. This month also brings a notable amount of precipitation, with rain or snow falling on about 11 days, adding to the city's atmospheric charm. The high humidity levels, often reaching 90%, create a dampness that can feel particularly biting. For those who enjoy the crisp, serene beauty of winter, January offers a unique and enchanting perspective on Copenhagen's charm, but be sure to bundle up! For more insights into what to expect throughout the year, check out Copenhagen Climate.