This post is about the weather in Amsterdam in January, including average temperatures, precipitation, and tips on packing and sightseeing activities.
HOW COLD IS AMSTERDAM IN JANUARY?
Amsterdam in January tends to be cold and often can be cloudy. Daytime high temperatures generally will be around 5 C-6 C (in the low 40s F) but a couple of the warmer afternoons can reach up to near 10 C-11 C (50 F). The record high temperature for Amsterdam in January was 14 C (57 F).
Late night and early morning low temperatures will tend to be about 1 C (in the mid 30s F) but can dip down at times into -5 C to -6 C (the lower 20s F). You should expect about 11 days this month with early morning temperatures at or below freezing (0 C/32 F). The record low temperature for Amsterdam during January was -16 C (3 F).
HOW MUCH SUN OR RAIN?
About 20-21 days this month will be mostly cloudy, however, 10-11 days will be sunny or at least partly sunny. Precipitation normally falls on 8-12 days with 18 days likely to see some fog.
Some snow or ice can occur on about 6 days, however, accumulating snow or ice only occurs on 2-3 days each winter and heavy snowfalls are rare.
Daylight hours gradually increase from about 7.8 hours on January 1st reaching just over 9 hours by the 31st. Amsterdam tends to be breezy during January with moderate breezes prevailing at 20-30 kph (13-18 mph) but occasionally freshening to 31-39 kph (19-24 mph) with higher gusts.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Amsterdam is cold, damp and breezy in January so do bring warm winter clothes along with a waterproof warm coat or jacket. Gloves, a scarf and hat will also be handy in the windy conditions.
You may also wish to bring along an umbrella, a sweater or two, warm socks, winter boots and perhaps some thermal underwear.
WHAT TO DO IN AMSTERDAM IN JANUARY
This section lists our suggestions for things to do in Amsterdam this month. Find more detail for these top things to do in our full Amsterdam in January post.
For more detail on these free things to do, family-friendly activities, and evening entertainment and events, read our full post for the best Amsterdam activities.
TIP: When you purchase a tourist discount pass, you can see more while saving money on the most popular attractions. Some city passes will give up to 55% discounts!
- Go see a live concert
- See the Amsterdam light festival
- Cheer on the Ajax at a football match
- Go ice-skating
- Take a Free Walking Tour
- Visit the Red Light District
Find more detail for these top things to do in our full Amsterdam in January post.
