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Weather Comparison

Bali vs Istanbul

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Bali: 28°CIstanbul: 8°C10,325 km apart

January Weather: Bali vs Istanbul

MetricBaliIstanbulBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer28°C (82°F)8°C (46°F)Bali
Average LowHigher is milder25°C (77°F)4°C (39°F)Bali
Rain DaysFewer is drier29 days13 daysIstanbul
PrecipitationLess is drier382 mm85 mmIstanbul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier9h/day6h/dayBali
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%65%Istanbul
UV IndexLower is safer81Istanbul
Wind SpeedCalmer is better12 km/h23 km/hBali

Which City is Better in January?

Bali and Istanbul are closely matched in January. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Bali sits in the comfortable travel range at 28°C. Istanbul is cooler at 8°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Istanbul is the stronger choice in January. Bali receives 3 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Bali reaches an average high of 28°C (82°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 3°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Istanbul averages 8°C (46°F) for the high and 4°C (39°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. There is a notable 20°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Bali is in the Southern Hemisphere while Istanbul is in the Northern Hemisphere. This means they experience opposite seasons, which explains any large temperature difference.

Rainfall Comparison in January

Bali receives approximately 382 mm of rainfall across 29 rain days during January. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Istanbul sees 85 mm over 13 rain days. That makes Istanbul the drier option by 16 rain days and 297 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Bali averages 82% while Istanbul sits at 65%. Bali will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Bali vs Istanbul

Packing for Bali in January

Highs of 28°C, lows of 25°C, 29 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Istanbul in January

Highs of 8°C, lows of 4°C, 13 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Bali vs Istanbul

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.January is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthBaliIstanbul
HighRainHighRain
Jan28°C29d8°C13d
Feb28°C27d9°C12d
Mar28°C28d11°C11d
Apr28°C24d15°C8d
May28°C18d20°C6d
Jun27°C14d25°C6d
Jul26°C12d28°C4d
Aug26°C10d28°C3d
Sep27°C11d24°C7d
Oct28°C17d19°C9d
Nov28°C23d14°C10d
Dec28°C28d10°C13d
28°

Bali Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

8°

Istanbul Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bali warmer than Istanbul in January?
Yes. In January, Bali is warmer with an average high of 28°C (82°F) compared to Istanbul at 8°C (46°F), a difference of 20°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Bali or Istanbul?
Bali gets more rain in January with 29 rain days and 382 mm of precipitation. Istanbul is the drier option with 13 rain days.
Is it better to visit Bali or Istanbul in January?
It depends on your preferences. Bali averages 28°C and 9 hours of daily sunshine with 29 rain days. Istanbul averages 8°C with 6 sunshine hours and 13 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Bali. For fewer rain days, Istanbul is the better pick.
How far apart are Bali and Istanbul?
Bali and Istanbul are approximately 10,325 km (6,412 miles) apart. Bali is located in Indonesia (Asia) while Istanbul is in Turkey (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Bali and Istanbul?
For Bali, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 26°C. For Istanbul, July is typically ideal with 14 sunshine hours and 28°C highs.

Compare Bali and Istanbul in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Bali coordinates: -8.65°N, 115.22°E | Istanbul coordinates: 41.01°N, 28.98°E