What January feels like in Madrid
In Madrid, January brings mid-winter. The daytime air has a chill to it, though it is rarely bitter. Once the sun goes down the air changes: nights are cold. The air is damp, which makes cool temperatures feel colder, particularly in wind.
Rain in Madrid in January
Most days stay dry; rain arrives about one day in 4. Each rainy day adds about 5.4 mm (0.2 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. Across the year Madrid averages about 6.6 mm per rainy day, so January is typical.
Daylight and sunshine in January
In mid-January, sunrise is at about 8:36 am and sunset at about 6:11 pm (local time) — 9 h 35 min of daylight. Days are getting longer: 16 min more daylight than in mid-December. Measured sunshine covers about 72% of the daylight — there are plenty of bright spells.
How January compares to the rest of the year
Ranked by average high, January comes out as the coolest month in Madrid. Compared with December, afternoons are 0.7°C (1.3°F) cooler, with 4 mm less rain. Temperatures keep climbing into February. The next month's average high: 12.2°C (54°F).
Who January suits
- Sightseeing: less ideal — it is cold for long walks.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
Tips for visiting Madrid in January
Versatile Layers
Days are noticeably warmer than nights — layers you can add or remove.
Warm Layers
A proper winter coat, with gloves and a hat for early starts.
Quick questions
How warm is Madrid in January?
Expect around 9.9°C (49.8°F) in the afternoon and 1.3°C (34.3°F) at night, which most visitors would call chilly.
Does it rain a lot in Madrid in January?
Only moderately: roughly 7 wet days and 38 mm, usually moderate rain.
What should I wear in Madrid in January?
Based on the averages: versatile layers and warm layers. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is January or February better for visiting Madrid?
On our 12-month climate ranking, February comes out ahead (#6 of 12 vs #12). February is warmer and has fewer rainy days.