Warsaw Weather in January

January weather

January in Warsaw feels cold, grey and damp. Days reach around freezing, while nights dip below it. Rain falls often, and the short daylight and limited sun can make afternoons feel gloomy. Pavements may be wet or icy, so long walks can get tiring.

You can still enjoy the Old Town, but keep outdoor sightseeing brief and duck into the Royal Castle or a café on Nowy Świat. The POLIN Museum of the History of Polish Jews is a good choice when the weather turns sour. Skip a long stroll along the Vistula boulevards if it's cold and wet.

Events and winter days

New Year's Day and Epiphany, on January 6, are public holidays. Some shops and services may close, so don't count on a normal city day then. Warsaw also hosts the Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity, a major fundraiser with concerts and street collections, usually in January.

If you're visiting around the event, expect more activity in central areas. Otherwise, January is a quieter time for the Royal Route and the Old Town than the warmer months.

Crowds and practical tips

If you hate crowds, January is a good time to see Warsaw at a slower pace. It's low season, with fewer visitors than in summer and generally lower hotel prices than in peak months. The trade-off is poor weather for spending long stretches outside.

Travelling with kids? Make the Copernicus Science Centre or the National Museum your main daytime stop, then warm up with pierogi in a milk bar. These simple Polish eateries are a handy, inexpensive way to eat indoors. For an easy indoor break near the Old Town, take the metro to Ratusz Arsenał and visit the POLIN Museum.