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Weather Comparison

Dublin vs Edinburgh

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Dublin: 8°CEdinburgh: 6°C350 km apart

January Weather: Dublin vs Edinburgh

MetricDublinEdinburghBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer8°C (46°F)6°C (43°F)Dublin
Average LowHigher is milder4°C (39°F)2°C (36°F)Dublin
Rain DaysFewer is drier13 days14 daysDublin
PrecipitationLess is drier70 mm74 mmDublin
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day3h/dayDublin
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better27 km/h25 km/hEdinburgh

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Dublin edges ahead as the better destination in January. Dublin offers 4 hours of daily sunshine with only 13 rain days, while Edinburgh sees 3 sunshine hours and 14 rain days.

Dublin is on the cooler side at 8°C, requiring warmer clothing. Edinburgh is cooler at 6°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Dublin is the stronger choice in January. Dublin receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Dublin reaches an average high of 8°C (46°F) and drops to 4°C (39°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Edinburgh averages 6°C (43°F) for the high and 2°C (36°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The 2°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in January.

Rainfall Comparison in January

Dublin receives approximately 70 mm of rainfall across 13 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Edinburgh sees 74 mm over 14 rain days. That makes Dublin the drier option by 1 rain day and 4 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Dublin vs Edinburgh

Packing for Dublin 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

Packing for Edinburgh in January

Highs of 6°C, lows of 2°C, 14 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: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Dublin vs Edinburgh

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.

MonthDublinEdinburgh
HighRainHighRain
Jan8°C13d6°C14d
Feb8°C12d6°C12d
Mar10°C12d8°C13d
Apr12°C14d10°C12d
May15°C14d13°C13d
Jun17°C13d16°C14d
Jul19°C15d18°C14d
Aug19°C14d17°C13d
Sep17°C12d15°C11d
Oct13°C12d12°C13d
Nov10°C13d8°C14d
Dec8°C13d6°C14d
8°

Dublin Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

6°

Edinburgh Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dublin warmer than Edinburgh in January?
Yes. In January, Dublin is warmer with an average high of 8°C (46°F) compared to Edinburgh at 6°C (43°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Dublin or Edinburgh?
Edinburgh gets more rain in January with 14 rain days and 74 mm of precipitation. Dublin is the drier option with 13 rain days.
Is it better to visit Dublin or Edinburgh in January?
It depends on your preferences. Dublin averages 8°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 13 rain days. Edinburgh averages 6°C with 3 sunshine hours and 14 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Dublin. For drier weather, Dublin is the better pick.
How far apart are Dublin and Edinburgh?
Dublin and Edinburgh are approximately 350 km (217 miles) apart. Dublin is located in Ireland (Europe) while Edinburgh is in United Kingdom (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Dublin and Edinburgh?
For Dublin, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 17°C. For Edinburgh, May is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 13°C highs.

Compare Dublin and Edinburgh 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.

Dublin coordinates: 53.35°N, -6.26°E | Edinburgh coordinates: 55.95°N, -3.19°E