Riga vs Minsk

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Minsk edges ahead as the better destination in January. Minsk offers 2 hours of daily sunshine with only 10 rain days, while Riga sees 2 sunshine hours and 12 rain days.

Riga is on the cooler side at -1°C, requiring warmer clothing. Minsk is cooler at -3°C.

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

Riga reaches an average high of -1°C (30°F) and drops to -5°C (23°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 4°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Minsk averages -3°C (27°F) for the high and -7°C (19°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.

Riga receives approximately 46 mm of rainfall across 12 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Minsk sees 40 mm over 10 rain days. That makes Minsk the drier option by 2 rain days and 6 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.