Last updated: August 27, 2025
Istanbul in January presents a blend of cool temperatures and relatively high humidity, creating a distinct winter atmosphere. The maximum temperature reaches 16°C (62°F), while the average settles around 7°C (45°F), with lows plunging to -3°C (27°F). Rainfall is noticeable, with about 102 mm (4.0 in) distributed over 13 days, making it one of the wetter months. Visitors can expect a damp and chilly climate, perfect for cozy indoor activities and exploring the city's rich history and culture amidst the moody winter landscape.
In January, Istanbul's weather reflects the heart of winter, with temperatures ranging from a brisk -3°C (27°F) to a comfortable 16°C (62°F). The month typically experiences an average of 7°C (45°F), making it one of the colder months in this vibrant city. As winter transitions into early spring, you can expect a gradual warming trend, with February seeing the minimum temperature rise slightly to -1°C (31°F) and an average of 8°C (46°F). By March, temperatures continue this upward trajectory, hinting at the approaching warmth of spring, with averages remaining steady but max temperatures inching higher. The stark contrast between the chilly January nights and the milder days marks a dynamic time in Istanbul, perfect for cozying up in a café or exploring the city's iconic sights in cooler comfort.
In January, Istanbul experiences its wettest month of the year, with an average precipitation of 102 mm (4.0 in) spread over 13 days. This significant rainfall sets the tone for a damp start to the year, contrasted sharply with the much drier summer months, where August sees a mere 18 mm (0.7 in) in just 3 days. Following January, precipitation gradually decreases, hitting a low in July and August before beginning to pick up again in the fall. Notably, December also mirrors January's gloomy trend, receiving 108 mm (4.2 in) across 15 days, indicating a seasonal pattern where the winter months are characterized by heavier rains. This cyclical variation highlights Istanbul's climatic shifts, making the start of the year particularly memorable for its abundant rainfall.
In January, Istanbul experiences a high humidity level of 84%, which aligns with the city's overall cool and damp winter atmosphere. This trend is consistent as humidity remains steady at 84% in February and slightly dips to 83% in March, signaling the gradual transition from winter to spring. As the months progress, the humidity begins to decrease more noticeably, with April and May seeing levels of 76% and 77%, respectively. By the time summer arrives in June, the humidity drops to 70%, reaching its lowest point of 55% in August, offering a reprieve from the earlier dampness. As autumn returns, humidity rises again, peaking at 85% in December, completing a cycle that reflects the city's rich and diverse climate throughout the year.
In Istanbul, January experiences a moderate UV Index of 3, indicating that while sunlight exposure is enjoyable, it requires some caution. With a burn time of about 30 minutes, it's a good reminder to cover up or wear sunscreen if you plan on spending extended time outdoors. As we transition into February, the UV Index rises to 4, maintaining that same moderate exposure level. A notable trend emerges in the spring months, where March and April see higher indices of 6 and 7, respectively, shifting into the high exposure category and reducing burn times to 25 minutes. By May, the UV Index escalates further to 8, categorized as very high, demanding even greater vigilance as burn times decrease to just 15 minutes. This pattern continues through the summer, peaking in June at an intense 10. However, as autumn rolls in, we see a gradual decline, with the UV Index dropping back to 3 by November and 2 in December, allowing for 45 minutes of burn time without immediate risk. For more detailed insights on UV levels throughout the year, check out Istanbul UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
January in Istanbul brings a gentle embrace of sunshine with 159 hours of daylight, setting the stage for a gradual shift towards spring. As the city transitions into February, sunny hours increase to 232, hinting at the approaching warmth. This upward trajectory continues through March and April, where the light blossoms further to 303 and 347 hours, respectively, igniting the vibrant hues of the city. The sun reaches its zenith in July, basking Istanbul in a radiant 428 hours. As summer fades into autumn, the hours start to wane, yet even in October with 305 hours, the city retains a comfortable glow. This rhythmic cycle of sunlight weaves a tapestry of seasonal change, inviting both locals and visitors to revel in the rich beauty of Istanbul throughout the year.
In Istanbul, January tends to be one of the cloudier months, with only a 27% chance of sunny weather. This marks a significant contrast to the sunnier days of the following months, where February sees a jump to 42% and March remains steady at 40%. As spring approaches, the likelihood of sunshine steadily increases, peaking in the summer with a remarkable 79% in July and 82% in August. The trend clearly shows that as winter transitions into spring and then into summer, residents and visitors can expect a much brighter sky, making January an ideal time for those who enjoy the charm of cooler, albeit grayer, days in this beautiful city.
In Istanbul, the daylight duration gradually increases from January's 9 hours to a peak of 15 hours in June, inviting longer days filled with vibrant city life and exploration. As spring unfolds into summer, the city basks in the warm embrace of sunlight, encouraging locals and visitors alike to savor the outdoors. However, as July transitions into August, daylight begins to wane, leading into a gentle decline through the fall months. By December, the daylight dips back to 9 hours, mirroring the year’s beginning. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight offers a unique charm, reflecting Istanbul's seasonal transformations while enhancing the overall experience of this culturally rich city.
In Istanbul during January, the average wind speed hovers around 4.8 m/s (11 mph), offering a brisk chill that resonates with the city's vibrant atmosphere. As the month transitions into February, the winds become slightly stronger, reaching 4.9 m/s, before declining in March to 4.7 m/s. This fluctuation suggests a dynamic early year for the city, with a noticeable calm settling in as spring approaches, where speeds decrease to 4.1 m/s in April and further to 4.0 m/s in May. By June, the winds mellow significantly to just 3.0 m/s (7 mph), creating a serene ambiance that's optimal for enjoying Istanbul's outdoor cafes. Interestingly, wind speeds rebound in the latter half of the year, peaking at 5.2 m/s in both October and December, hinting at a seasonal pattern where cooler months bring along a refreshing breeze and invigorate the city's historic charm. Overall, January stands as a pivotal month, setting the stage for the evolving wind patterns that define Istanbul's unique climate.
Weather in Istanbul varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares January’s weather to other months in Istanbul, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
In comparing the weather between January and February, it is notable that February typically experiences slightly milder conditions. The minimum temperature in February rises to -1°C (31°F) from January's -3°C (27°F), while the average temperature increases to 8°C (46°F), compared to January's 7°C (45°F). Interestingly, the maximum temperature remains the same at 17°C (62°F) for both months. Precipitation levels also decrease significantly in February to 66 mm (2.6 in), down from 102 mm (4.0 in) in January, with only one less rainy day. Both months maintain a consistent humidity level of 84%. For a more detailed look at February's weather, you can explore Istanbul weather in February.
January and March feature relatively mild temperatures, with January experiencing a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F), while March sees slightly warmer conditions, with a minimum of -2°C (29°F) and an average of 8°C (47°F). The maximum temperatures in both months are similar, reaching 16°C (62°F) in January and 18°C (65°F) in March. Precipitation levels are also notable, as January receives 102 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, compared to March's 82 mm (3.2 in) spread across 12 days. Humidity remains consistent between the two months, with January at 84% and March at 83%. For more details on weather conditions, check out Istanbul weather in March.
January weather in the region is characterized by colder temperatures, with minimums dipping to -3°C (27°F) and average highs reaching around 16°C (62°F). Additionally, January sees considerable precipitation, with 102 mm (4.0 in) falling over approximately 13 days, creating a humid environment with an average humidity level of 84%. In contrast, April brings a noticeable warming trend, as temperatures rise, with minimums at 4°C (40°F) and maximums climbing to 23°C (73°F), leading to an average of 12°C (53°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 49 mm (1.9 in) over just 8 days, and humidity levels drop to 76%. For more detailed insights, check out Istanbul weather in April.
January in Istanbul is characterized by chilly temperatures, with a minimum of -3°C (27°F) and an average around 7°C (45°F), reaching a maximum of 16°C (62°F). The month sees significant precipitation, totaling 102 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, and high humidity at 84%. In contrast, May brings a notable warming trend, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a comfortable average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at 27°C (82°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 50 mm (2.0 in) over just 8 days, and humidity drops to 77%. For more details, you can check out Istanbul weather in May.
In January, temperatures in Istanbul range from a chilly minimum of -3°C (27°F) to an average of 7°C (45°F), reaching a maximum of 16°C (62°F). This month experiences relatively high precipitation, totaling 102 mm (4.0 in) over about 13 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 84%. In contrast, June brings much warmer conditions, with temperatures starting at a comfortable minimum of 13°C (56°F) and averaging 22°C (71°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). The June weather is considerably drier, with only 40 mm (1.6 in) of precipitation over just 7 days and lower humidity at 70%. For more detailed information on June weather in Istanbul, you can visit Istanbul weather in June.
In January, the weather is notably cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). This month also sees a higher level of precipitation, with around 102 mm (4.0 in) falling over approximately 13 days, and the humidity is quite high at 84%. In stark contrast, July experiences much warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating from 18°C (65°F) to 33°C (92°F) and an average of 24°C (76°F). Precipitation drops significantly to just 53 mm (2.1 in) over about 5 days, and humidity decreases to a more comfortable 63%. For a closer look at weather specifics, check out Istanbul weather in July.
January and August present stark contrasts in weather. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) at their lowest to a mild 16°C (62°F) at their peak, with an average of 7°C (45°F). This month also sees considerable precipitation, totaling 102 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days, and a high humidity level of 84%. In comparison, August experiences much warmer conditions, with temperatures fluctuating between a minimum of 19°C (66°F) and a maximum of 34°C (93°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). The precipitation significantly decreases to just 18 mm (0.7 in) over only 3 days, coupled with a reduced humidity of 55%. For more insights into August weather, you can visit Istanbul weather in August.
January and September exhibit stark contrasts in weather patterns. In January, temperatures range from a chilly -3°C (27°F) at night to a mild 16°C (62°F) during the day, with an average of 7°C (45°F). This month also sees significant precipitation, with 102 mm (4.0 in) over about 13 days, contributing to a high humidity level of 84%. In contrast, September welcomes warmer temperatures, with nighttime lows of 13°C (57°F) and daytime highs reaching up to 32°C (90°F), averaging around 22°C (72°F). The month experiences much less rainfall, totaling only 36 mm (1.4 in) over approximately 6 days, and a lower humidity level of 60%. For more detailed information, you can check Istanbul weather in September.
January and October present quite a contrast in weather conditions. January experiences colder temperatures, with averages ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), making it a notably chilly month. In contrast, October enjoys milder temperatures, with an average ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a pleasant maximum of 28°C (82°F). Precipitation levels are also different; January sees about 102 mm (4.0 in) of rain over 13 days, while October is drier, with only 56 mm (2.2 in) falling over 8 days. Additionally, January has a higher humidity of 84% compared to October’s 73%, contributing to its brisk feel. For more information on October weather specifically, you can check this link: Istanbul weather in October.
In January, the weather is notably colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F) and an average of 7°C (45°F). The month is also marked by higher precipitation, amounting to 102 mm (4.0 in) over 13 rainy days, alongside relatively high humidity levels at 84%. In contrast, November showcases a milder climate, with temperatures fluctuating between 7°C (44°F) and 22°C (72°F), averaging 14°C (57°F). This month sees less rainfall, with 63 mm (2.5 in) falling across 10 days, and humidity slightly lower at 82%. For those interested in the specifics of the November weather, you can find more details here: Istanbul weather in November.
In comparing the weather between January and December, January tends to be colder, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of -3°C (27°F) to a maximum of 16°C (62°F), while December brings milder temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F). Both months experience significant precipitation, with January receiving 102 mm (4.0 in) over 13 days and December slightly higher at 108 mm (4.2 in) over 15 days. Humidity levels are similar, with January at 84% and December at 85%. For more detailed information, you can visit Istanbul weather in December.
January in Istanbul marks the heart of winter, where temperatures take a noticeable dip compared to the milder months of spring and autumn. This month typically experiences a chilly average that contrasts sharply with the warmer summer highs. Visitors can expect a fair amount of rainfall, with January being one of the wetter months, as the city is blanketed in a higher humidity level, creating a crisp atmosphere. While the temperature can drop to frosty lows, the stunning blend of history and winter scenery still offers captivating experiences. For those planning a visit, understanding the unique January climate is essential for a delightful stay in this vibrant city. For more information, explore Istanbul Climate.