Edinburgh weather in January
“Cool and moody. Best paired with warm rooms and long lunches.”
Roughly 14 rainy days across the month, on average.
January in Edinburgh is cold and damp, with average highs of 6.5°C (44°F) and lows of 2.3°C (36°F). Expect around 77.8mm of rainfall across 13.7 rainy days, so wet weather is frequent. Sunshine is limited at just 3.7 hours per day, creating those classic grey Scottish winter afternoons. The city often feels colder than the thermometer suggests due to wind and moisture.
This is Edinburgh's quietest season. The festive December crowds have dispersed, and the famous Hogmanay celebrations wind down by early January. You'll find fewer tourists, shorter queues at attractions, and a more authentic local atmosphere. The city takes on a moody, atmospheric character perfect for exploring historic closes and enjoying cosy cafés without the summer rush.
January 2026 suits budget-conscious travellers and those who prefer solitude over sunshine. Book accommodation well in advance as winter rates are low but availability fills quickly. Come prepared for wet, cold conditions—this isn't a month for outdoor sightseeing marathons, but rather for museums, whisky bars, and intimate Edinburgh experiences.
What to pack for Edinburgh in January
Layer up for Edinburgh's damp cold. You'll need insulating base layers, a windproof outer shell, and waterproof accessories. Proper footwear is essential as streets are often wet and slippery. Avoid cotton; opt for merino wool and synthetic materials that retain warmth when damp.
- Waterproof hiking jacket or light rain jacket
- Merino wool thermal leggings or long underwear
- Insulated waterproof boots with grip soles
- Wool beanie and insulated gloves
- Scarf or neck gaiter for wind protection
What to pack for Edinburgh in January
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Where to stay in Edinburgh
We don't review individual hotels — plenty of people do that well. What we do is send you to compare rooms in Edinburgh across trusted platforms.
Compare hotels on Booking.com→Things worth doing
National Museum of Scotland, Royal Mile walking tour, Whisky tasting at local distilleries, Edinburgh Castle interior exploration (outdoor viewing limited by weather).
January vs. the rest of the year
How this month compares in Edinburgh. Tap any month to read more.
highlighted months are among the best time to visit.
Best time to visit Edinburgh
While January has its own character in Edinburgh, the data-backed best months to visit Edinburgh are June, July, August, September. These months combine the most favourable temperatures, rainfall, and sunshine across a ten-year climate record.
See the full best-time-to-visit guide for EdinburghOther places with a similar climate right now
Edinburgh in January — FAQ
Q01Is January a good time to visit Edinburgh?
Is January a good time to visit Edinburgh?
It is a fair time to visit — expect variable conditions and plan flexibility. In January, Edinburgh averages a high of 6°C (43°F) and a low of 2°C (36°F), with 76mm of rainfall across roughly 14 rainy days.
Q02What is the average temperature in Edinburgh in January?
What is the average temperature in Edinburgh in January?
The average high temperature in Edinburgh during January is 6°C (43°F), with an average low of 2°C (36°F). These figures are averaged from ten years of daily records (2015–2024, Open-Meteo Archive).
Q03How many rainy days does Edinburgh have in January?
How many rainy days does Edinburgh have in January?
Edinburgh averages approximately 14 rainy days in January, with a total monthly rainfall of about 76mm. This is based on daily precipitation records where days with 1mm or more of rain are counted as rainy days.
Q04What should I pack for Edinburgh in January?
What should I pack for Edinburgh in January?
For Edinburgh in January, pack a warm winter coat, a merino base layer for evenings, a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes. These recommendations are based on the ten-year weather averages for this specific month.
Q05How crowded is Edinburgh in January?
How crowded is Edinburgh in January?
Tourist crowds in Edinburgh during January are typically low — winter is off-season, meaning quiet streets and better hotel deals. Consider this when planning accommodation — prices track crowd levels closely.