January Weather in Vatican City, Holy See

Last updated: August 21, 2025

January in Vatican City, Holy See, presents a unique blend of chilly weather and charming winter scenery. With a maximum temperature reaching 19°C (66°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), the month also sees a minimum drop to -4°C (26°F), making warm attire essential for visitors. Despite the cool conditions, precipitation totals around 62 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 8 days, contributing to a notably humid atmosphere at 80%. This combination of weather elements creates a captivating backdrop for exploring the spiritual and cultural treasures of this remarkable city-state.

January Temperature in Vatican City

In January, Vatican City experiences a seasonal chill, with temperatures ranging from a frigid -4°C (26°F) to a mild 19°C (66°F) by day. The average temperature sits comfortably at 7°C (45°F), offering a refreshing respite from the winter freeze. As the month progresses, the cold gradually gives way to slightly warmer conditions, evidenced by the approaching February, which sees nighttime lows of -10°C (14°F) and daytime highs inching up to 21°C (69°F). This transition highlights a broader annual trend where winter's chill recedes, paving the way for the blooming warmth of spring. With each passing month, the gradual increase in temperatures encourages visitors to explore the wonders of the Holy See while enjoying the crisp, clear skies of winter transitioning into a vibrant spring.

January Weather in Vatican City: Daily Temperature Highs, Lows, and Averages

The chart illustrates January temperature patterns in Vatican City, showcasing daily minimum, maximum, and average temperatures. It highlights the typical range of temperatures throughout the month, providing insights into weather trends. In Vatican City, 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).
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec454951576574798072635548
Data source: Temperature data for Vatican City 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 Vatican City

In January, Vatican City experiences a modest precipitation of 62 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 8 days, marking the onset of a wet season that peaks in the following months. As winter transitions into spring, February sees a slight increase to 78 mm (3.1 in) with 9 rainy days, followed by an even wetter March with 80 mm (3.2 in). The rainfall begins to taper off in April and May, where averages of 69 mm (2.7 in) and 77 mm (3.0 in) are recorded, but the number of rainy days rises to 11 in May. This trend of increased precipitation continues into the fall, with November being particularly notable at 161 mm (6.3 in), accompanied by 15 rainy days. The weather pattern underscores a progressive wetness through the first half of the year, peaking before the dryer summer months of June through August, which collectively receive significantly less rainfall.

January Precipitation Trends in Vatican City

The chart displays monthly precipitation patterns in Vatican City, 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 Vatican City, January typically receives around {2} mm ({3} inches) of precipitation spread over approximately {4} days.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec627881697731231710492161135
Data source: Precipitation data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.
Choose your preferred precipitation unit

January Humidity in Vatican City

In January, Vatican City experiences a notably high humidity level of 80%, setting the tone for a winter characterized by dampness. As the months progress towards spring, humidity begins to decline, dropping to 73% in February and further to 69% by March, indicating a gradual transition to milder conditions. April sees a slight uptick to 74%, but the humidity remains relatively low through the warmer months, hovering around 70% from July to August. Interestingly, humidity levels begin to rise again as autumn approaches, reaching 79% in November before slightly decreasing to 77% by December. This trend reveals a clear seasonal pattern: warmer months feature reduced humidity, while the winter and early spring months offer a more humid atmosphere, creating a distinctive climate rhythm throughout the year in this historic city.

January Average Humidity in Vatican City

This chart illustrates the average monthly humidity levels in Vatican City, 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 Vatican City is approximately {2}%, offering insight into how humid the weather typically is during this month.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec80%73%69%74%76%73%70%68%71%76%79%77%
Data source: Humidity data for January generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

January UV Index in Vatican City

In January, the UV Index in Vatican City stands at a moderate 3, with a burn time of about 30 minutes. This trend of moderate exposure continues into February, where the index rises slightly to 4, maintaining the same burn time. As spring approaches in March, the UV Index reaches 5, marking a gradual increase in sun intensity. By April, this upward trend continues with a high UV Index of 7, resulting in a shorter burn time of just 25 minutes. The onset of summer brings a significant spike, with May and June experiencing very high indexes of 8 and 10, respectively, where the burn time shrinks to only 15 minutes. This peak in UV levels persists through July and August, before tapering off in September to 7. The months of October and November see a return to moderate conditions, with UV Index values of 5 and 4, while December offers a respite with a low index of 2 and an extended burn time of 45 minutes. As you enjoy the sunny days in the Vatican, keep an eye on the changing UV levels to protect your skin effectively. For more details, visit Vatican City UV Index.

Maximum UV Index Levels in Vatican City for January

The chart shows the monthly maximum UV Index (UVI) for Vatican City 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 Vatican City typically reaches {2}, which falls under the {3} exposure category.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec34578101097542
Data source: Vatican City 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 Vatican City

In January, Vatican City basks in around 200 hours of sunshine, marking the start of the year with a gentle, albeit modest glow. As the seasons unfold, sunshine begins to bloom, with February welcoming 254 hours and March seeing a considerable leap to 321 hours. The light reaches its zenith in the summer months, peaking at 431 hours in July, inviting pilgrims and tourists alike to explore its sacred sites under a radiant sun. However, as summer fades into autumn, the sunshine wanes, dropping to 314 hours in October and further to 243 hours in November. December rounds out the year with slightly less brightness at 241 hours, creating a reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the vibrancy of earlier months, ultimately illustrating a dynamic cycle of light that enhances the spiritual essence of this remarkable place.

Monthly Sunshine Duration in Vatican City: January Highlighted

The January sunshine duration represents the total number of hours Vatican City 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec200h254h321h351h397h417h431h398h337h314h243h241h
Data source: Vatican City January Sunshine duration data generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Chance of Sun in Vatican City During January

In Vatican City, the likelihood of sunny weather in January is relatively modest, with a 37% chance of sunshine. As winter gives way to spring, this probability climbs significantly, reaching 57% in February and 61% by March, showcasing a clear upward trend as daylight and warmth gradually increase. The sunshine percentage peaks during the summer months, culminating at a striking 73% in August, before tapering off as autumn approaches. This pattern highlights the distinctly seasonal nature of sunny days in Vatican City, making January the beginning of a gradual transition toward brighter, sun-filled days ahead.

Percentage of Sunny Days in January in Vatican City

The chart illustrates the percentage of sunny days in Vatican City 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 Vatican City experiences clear skies throughout the year.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec37%57%61%47%46%60%69%73%57%44%35%49%
Data source: Vatican City January chance of sun data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Daylight Hours in Vatican City in January

In January, Vatican City experiences about 9 hours of daylight, a stark contrast to the gradual increase that follows as winter gives way to spring. By February, daylight stretches to 10 hours, and by March, it reaches 11 hours, heralding the lengthening days ahead. The momentum continues into April and May, where the sun bathes the city for 13 and 14 hours respectively, peaking at a vibrant 15 hours in June. As summer wanes in July and August, daylight begins to recede, settling back to 14 and 13 hours. The descent continues into the autumn months of September and October, tapering to 12 and 11 hours. Finally, as the year concludes, January finds itself once again at 9 hours, creating a rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight that characterizes this historic enclave.

Average Daylight Hours in Vatican City for January

The chart illustrates the variation in daylight duration in Vatican City throughout the year, with January highlighted. It shows the monthly changes in daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec9h 30m10h 35m11h 57m13h 22m14h 33m15h 9m14h 50m13h 47m12h 26m11h 2m9h 48m9h 10m
Data source: Vatican City daylight hours, calculated by summing the hours between sunrise and sunset for each day.

January Winds in Vatican City

In Vatican City, January greets visitors with a gentle breeze, averaging 2.9 m/s (7 mph), making it the windiest month of the year. As winter progresses into February, the winds soften slightly to 2.4 m/s (5 mph), creating a calm ambiance perfect for exploring the city's rich history and stunning architecture. This tranquility continues into March and April, with wind speeds remaining low at 2.3 m/s (5 mph). As spring arrives in May, a subtle increase to 2.6 m/s (6 mph) hints at the warming season, while summer months show a slight fluctuation, with wind speeds consistently around 2.6 m/s (6 mph) in July and 2.3 m/s (5 mph) in August. By autumn, the winds once again retreat, with September and October forecasting 1.8 m/s (4 mph) and 2.6 m/s (6 mph), respectively. As the year rounds out in December, the winds pick up slightly to 2.7 m/s (6 mph), echoing the whispers of the festive spirit. Overall, January's refreshing gusts set the stage for a tranquil yet invigorating experience in the heart of the Holy See.

Average January Wind Speed in Vatican City

The chart displays monthly wind speed patterns in Vatican City, 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.
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec2.9 m/s2.42.32.32.61.82.62.31.82.62.52.7
Data source: Vatican City January wind data, generated using information from the Copernicus Climate Change Service.

How January Weather in Vatican City Compares to Other Months

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

January and February present notable differences in weather patterns. January experiences milder temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), while February typically sees slightly colder nights, dropping to around -10°C (14°F) but enjoying a higher average temperature of 9°C (49°F) during the day. Precipitation is somewhat higher in February at 78 mm (3.1 in) over 9 days compared to January's 62 mm (2.4 in) across 8 days, although humidity decreases slightly from January's 80% to February's 73%. For more detailed information about the weather in February, you can visit Vatican City weather in February.

Comparing the weather in January and March reveals notable differences. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a pleasant maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month experiences 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days and exhibits high humidity at 80%. In contrast, March presents slightly colder nights with minimum temperatures dropping to -11°C (12°F) but boasts warmer daytime averages and maxima reaching 23°C (75°F). Precipitation increases to 80 mm (3.2 in) over 9 days, while humidity decreases to a more comfortable 69%. For more detailed insights, check out Vatican City weather in March.

January and April present a noticeable contrast in weather conditions. In January, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a comfortable maximum of 19°C (66°F), with an average of 7°C (45°F). The month experiences about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a high humidity level of 80%. Conversely, April sees a significant warming trend, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 1°C (34°F) to a high of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 14°C (57°F). Although April has slightly higher precipitation at 69 mm (2.7 in) over 9 days, the humidity decreases to 74%. To learn more about April weather specifics, visit Vatican City weather in April.

In January, the weather is notably cooler, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), and a high humidity level of 80%. The month typically sees about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days. In contrast, May experiences much warmer conditions, characterized by an average temperature between 6°C (42°F) and 34°C (93°F). Although May has slightly more precipitation at 77 mm (3.0 in) over 11 days, the humidity is a bit lower at 76%. For a detailed look at what to expect, you can check out Vatican City weather in May.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), while averaging around 7°C (45°F). The month is characterized by high humidity levels at 80% and receives moderate precipitation of 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 8 days. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and peaking at 36°C (97°F), averaging 23°C (74°F). This month experiences lower precipitation, totaling 31 mm (1.2 in) over just 5 days, along with a slight drop in humidity to 73%. For more details on the June weather, you can check out Vatican City weather in June.

January and July present strikingly contrasting weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -4°C (26°F) at their lowest to a mild 19°C (66°F) at their peak, with an average temperature of 7°C (45°F). The month experiences relatively high humidity at 80% and a fair amount of precipitation, totaling 62 mm (2.4 in) over about 8 days. In contrast, July boasts much warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to a scorching maximum of 37°C (99°F), averaging 26°C (79°F). This month is significantly drier, with only 23 mm (0.9 in) of rain falling over just 3 days and lower humidity levels at 70%. This stark difference highlights the seasonal extremes in climate, making January a colder, wetter month and July a hot, dry one. For more specific details, check out Vatican City weather in July.

In contrast to January's chilly climate, where temperatures range from a crisp -4°C (26°F) to a milder average of 7°C (45°F), August brings warmth and vibrancy with temperatures soaring from a minimum of 15°C (59°F) to a blistering maximum of 39°C (103°F). January experiences relatively high humidity at 80% and notable precipitation of 62 mm (2.4 in) over 8 days, while August sees a significant drop in precipitation to just 17 mm (0.7 in) over only 4 days, paired with a more comfortable humidity level of 68%. For a closer look at the climate during August, you can refer to Vatican City weather in August.

In January, the weather is quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F), averaging around 7°C (45°F). This month experiences about 62 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over 8 days, along with a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, September boasts much warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and a maximum of 33°C (91°F), averaging 22°C (72°F). Although it is a wetter month with approximately 104 mm (4.1 in) of rainfall also over 8 days, the humidity is lower at 71%. The contrast between the cold, damp beginnings of the year and the warm, rainy early autumn is quite striking. For more details, check out Vatican City weather in September.

In comparing the weather between January and October, a notable shift in temperature can be observed. January features cooler conditions with minimum temperatures dropping to -4°C (26°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), while October enjoys much milder weather, starting at a minimum of 7°C (45°F) and averaging 17°C (63°F). Furthermore, the maximum temperatures in October reach up to 30°C (87°F), significantly warmer than January's peak of 19°C (66°F). Precipitation is slightly higher in October with 92 mm (3.6 in) over 9 days compared to January’s 62 mm (2.4 in) across 8 days, though humidity remains relatively consistent, hovering around 80% in January and 76% in October. For more detailed insights on October weather, you can visit Vatican City weather in October.

When comparing the weather in January and November, we see noteworthy differences in both temperature and precipitation. January features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -4°C (26°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), whereas November is significantly milder, with minimum temperatures starting at 0°C (31°F) and averaging 13°C (56°F). In terms of maximum temperatures, January reaches up to 19°C (66°F), while November can soar to 24°C (75°F).

Moreover, November experiences more precipitation, tallying 161 mm (6.3 in) over 15 days, compared to January's 62 mm (2.4 in) across 8 days. Despite slightly lower humidity levels in November at 79% compared to January's 80%, the overall climate is generally wetter and warmer in November. For more details, check out Vatican City weather in November.

In comparing the weather of January and December, January tends to be slightly colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -4°C (26°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). In contrast, December offers milder conditions, where temperatures vary from a minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a maximum of 18°C (65°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F). Precipitation is also significantly higher in December, totaling 135 mm (5.3 in) over 13 days, compared to January's 62 mm (2.4 in) over just 8 days. Additionally, January has a higher humidity level at 80%, while December’s humidity sits at 77%. For more details on December weather, you can check Vatican City weather in December.

Compare Vatican City's Climate with Cities Worldwide

Conclusion: What to Expect From January Weather in Vatican City

January in Vatican City presents a unique atmosphere as it marks the peak of winter, characterized by cooler temperatures and increased humidity. While daytime highs can reach a comfortable 19°C, the average chill of 7°C reminds visitors to dress warmly for their explorations. Unlike the generally drier months ahead, January features around eight days of precipitation, resulting in a total of 62 mm of rainfall, creating a lively, refreshing ambiance across the city. This blend of crisp air and occasional rain sets January apart from the milder, drier months that follow, offering a serene but vibrant experience for those who venture to this historic hub. For more details about the climate throughout the year, check out Vatican City Climate.