What January feels like in Frankfurt
January is the coldest stretch of winter in Frankfurt. It is cold outside for most of the day; indoor breaks come as a relief. There is little difference between day and night: nights hover around freezing, so frost is common, and evenings feel much like the afternoon. Moisture in the air gives the cold a damp edge.
Rain in Frankfurt in January
Expect a mix of dry and wet days, with rain about one day in 3. Each rainy day adds about 5.3 mm (0.2 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. The yearly figure is similar, around 5.4 mm per wet day.
Daylight and sunshine in January
Mid-month, Frankfurt gets 8 h 30 min of daylight, from sunrise near 8:19 am to sunset near 4:49 pm. Since mid-December the day has gained 24 min. About 44% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, sun and cloud share the day.
How January compares to the rest of the year
January is the coolest month of the year in Frankfurt. Afternoons run 0.8°C (1.4°F) cooler than in December, with 6 mm less rain. This is the low point, and February starts to warm up. The next month's average high: 6.7°C (44.1°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
- Museums & indoor: a good choice — warm places to spend the coldest part of the day.
Tips for visiting Frankfurt in January
Rain Protection
Keep a small umbrella in your bag and wear shoes that cope with puddles.
Warm Layers
A proper winter coat, with gloves and a hat for early starts.
Quick questions
How warm is Frankfurt in January?
Expect around 4.9°C (40.8°F) in the afternoon and -0.1°C (31.8°F) at night, which most visitors would call cold.
Does it rain a lot in Frankfurt in January?
Yes, fairly — rain falls about one day in 3 and totals about 64 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Frankfurt in January?
The numbers point to rain protection and warm layers. There is little need to change for the evening.
Is January or February better for visiting Frankfurt?
On our 12-month climate ranking, February comes out ahead (#8 of 12 vs #12). February is warmer and has fewer rainy days.