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Weather Comparison

Istanbul vs Bali

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Istanbul: 8°CBali: 28°C10,325 km apart

January Weather: Istanbul vs Bali

MetricIstanbulBaliBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer8°C (46°F)28°C (82°F)Bali
Average LowHigher is milder4°C (39°F)25°C (77°F)Bali
Rain DaysFewer is drier13 days29 daysIstanbul
PrecipitationLess is drier85 mm382 mmIstanbul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier6h/day9h/dayBali
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%82%Istanbul
UV IndexLower is safer18Istanbul
Wind SpeedCalmer is better23 km/h12 km/hBali

Which City is Better in January?

Istanbul and Bali 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.

Istanbul is on the cooler side at 8°C, requiring warmer clothing. Bali is also comfortable at 28°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

Istanbul 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.

Bali averages 28°C (82°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°C. There is a notable 20°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

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

Rainfall Comparison in January

Istanbul receives approximately 85 mm of rainfall across 13 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Bali sees 382 mm over 29 rain days. That makes Istanbul the drier option by 16 rain days and 297 mm of total precipitation.

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

What to Pack: Istanbul vs Bali

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

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

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

Year-Round Comparison: Istanbul vs Bali

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.

MonthIstanbulBali
HighRainHighRain
Jan8°C13d28°C29d
Feb9°C12d28°C27d
Mar11°C11d28°C28d
Apr15°C8d28°C24d
May20°C6d28°C18d
Jun25°C6d27°C14d
Jul28°C4d26°C12d
Aug28°C3d26°C10d
Sep24°C7d27°C11d
Oct19°C9d28°C17d
Nov14°C10d28°C23d
Dec10°C13d28°C28d
8°

Istanbul Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

28°

Bali Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul warmer than Bali in January?
No. 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, Istanbul or Bali?
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 Istanbul or Bali in January?
It depends on your preferences. Istanbul averages 8°C and 6 hours of daily sunshine with 13 rain days. Bali averages 28°C with 9 sunshine hours and 29 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Bali. For drier weather, Istanbul is the better pick.
How far apart are Istanbul and Bali?
Istanbul and Bali are approximately 10,325 km (6,412 miles) apart. Istanbul is located in Turkey (Europe) while Bali is in Indonesia (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Istanbul and Bali?
For Istanbul, July tends to be the best month with 14 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 28°C. For Bali, August is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 26°C highs.

Compare Istanbul and Bali 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.

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