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Weather Comparison

London vs Paris

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

London: 7°CParis: 7°C344 km apart

January Weather: London vs Paris

MetricLondonParisBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer7°C (45°F)7°C (45°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder2°C (36°F)2°C (36°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days12 daysLondon
PrecipitationLess is drier55 mm52 mmParis
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day4h/dayTie
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better23 km/h20 km/hParis

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, London edges ahead as the better destination in January. London offers 4 hours of daily sunshine with only 11 rain days, while Paris sees 4 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

London is on the cooler side at 7°C, requiring warmer clothing. Paris is cooler at 7°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, London is the stronger choice in January.

Temperature Comparison in January

London reaches an average high of 7°C (45°F) and drops to 2°C (36°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 5°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Paris averages 7°C (45°F) for the high and 2°C (36°F) for the low, with a daily range of 5°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

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

Rainfall Comparison in January

London receives approximately 55 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Paris sees 52 mm over 12 rain days. That makes London the drier option by 1 rain day and 3 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: London vs Paris

Packing for London in January

Highs of 7°C, lows of 2°C, 11 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 Paris in January

Highs of 7°C, lows of 2°C, 12 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: London vs Paris

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.

MonthLondonParis
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C11d7°C12d
Feb8°C10d8°C10d
Mar10°C10d12°C11d
Apr14°C11d15°C11d
May17°C10d19°C11d
Jun20°C10d22°C10d
Jul22°C11d24°C10d
Aug21°C10d24°C9d
Sep19°C9d21°C8d
Oct15°C11d16°C11d
Nov10°C11d11°C11d
Dec8°C11d7°C12d
7°

London Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

7°

Paris Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is London warmer than Paris in January?
London and Paris have the same average high temperature of 7°C (45°F) in January. The average lows are 2°C and 2°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in January, London or Paris?
Paris gets more rain in January with 12 rain days and 55 mm of precipitation. London is the drier option with 11 rain days.
Is it better to visit London or Paris in January?
It depends on your preferences. London averages 7°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. Paris averages 7°C with 4 sunshine hours and 12 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Paris. For drier weather, London is the better pick.
How far apart are London and Paris?
London and Paris are approximately 344 km (214 miles) apart. London is located in United Kingdom (Europe) while Paris is in France (Europe).
What is the best month to visit London and Paris?
For London, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 20°C. For Paris, August is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 24°C highs.

Compare London and Paris 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.

London coordinates: 51.51°N, -0.13°E | Paris coordinates: 48.86°N, 2.35°E