What January feels like in Saint Petersburg
In Saint Petersburg, January brings mid-winter. Days barely climb above freezing, so it feels properly wintry outdoors even at midday. The gap between afternoon and night is small, so nights drop well below freezing and the temperature hardly changes after dark. The air is damp, which makes cool temperatures feel colder, particularly in wind.
Rain in Saint Petersburg in January
Showers are a regular feature, arriving about one day in 3. When it rains, it is usually light: about 3.6 mm (0.1 in) per rainy day, more drizzle than downpour. That is lighter than the city's yearly norm of about 4.9 mm per rainy day. It is among the three driest months of the year.
Daylight and sunshine in January
Mid-month, Saint Petersburg gets 6 h 41 min of daylight, from sunrise near 9:47 am to sunset near 4:28 pm. Since mid-December the day has gained 42 min. Measured sunshine covers about 21% of the daylight — skies are often cloudy.
How January compares to the rest of the year
In Saint Petersburg's temperature order, January sits as the coolest month. Afternoons run 2.8°C (5°F) cooler than in December, with 7 mm less rain. February is cooler again. February averages a high of -3.6°C (25.5°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
- Beach: less ideal — the sea air is too cool.
- Museums & indoor: a good choice — warm places to spend the coldest part of the day.
Tips for visiting Saint Petersburg 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 Saint Petersburg in January?
It feels freezing: typical highs are -3.7°C (25.3°F), with lows near -7.7°C (18.1°F).
Does it rain a lot in Saint Petersburg in January?
Only moderately: roughly 12 wet days and 43 mm, usually light showers.
What should I wear in Saint Petersburg in January?
Pack rain protection and warm layers. Evenings feel similar to the day, so the same clothes work from morning to night.
Is January or February better for visiting Saint Petersburg?
February, narrowly: it ranks #9 of 12 among Saint Petersburg's months, against #11 for the other. February has fewer rainy days.