Beirut Weather in January

🇱🇧 Lebanon

16°C

High

8°C

Low

Rain Days

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Asia › 🇱🇧 Lebanon › Beirut

Updated: March 2026

Is January a Good Time to Visit Beirut?

5/10

Fair

January is a fair time to visit Beirut (5/10). With 8 daily sunshine hours and only 13 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 11th sunniest of the year in Beirut. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find January a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak May without sacrificing all the good weather. February offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Beirut's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.

vs December:18°C avg high

Beirut's January weather is shaped by atmospheric forces that make the data more than just numbers. The 16°C average high reflects a transitional pressure pattern where mid-latitude westerlies alternately bring mild maritime air and cooler polar intrusions. As a result, 8 daily sunshine hours are recorded on average, and rainfall of 129mm is distributed across approximately 13 days because precipitation events tend to be frequent but short-lived.

16°C

Avg High

8°C

Avg Low

13 days

Rain Days

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Temperature in Beirut in January

The 8°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Winds are calm at an average 14 km/h, so wind-chill is not a factor in planning your clothing. In Fahrenheit: 61°F average high, 46°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in January

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Beirut in January

Morning8°CBefore the day warms up

Afternoon16°CPeak daytime temperature

Evening11°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Beirut in January means dressing for 16°C days and 8°C evenings. A mid-weight jacket over a sweater handles 16°C daytime temperatures; the combination stays comfortable all day without overheating. Evening temperatures settle at 8°C, a modest 8°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues. With 13 rain days expected, a compact travel umbrella is worth the bag space. A waterproof jacket is better than an umbrella if you plan full-day outdoor routes.

💡

Local tip: Temple and religious site visits require covered shoulders and knees in most of Beirut's heritage areas. A lightweight scarf or sarong weighs almost nothing and solves the problem instantly.

Events in Beirut in January

January has no major festivals or public holidays in Beirut, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Beirut in January

Based on 16°C average highs and 13 rainy days

Light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings
Mix of short and long-sleeve layers
Comfortable walking shoes with good arch support
Compact folding umbrella
Waterproof outer layer or packable rain jacket
Quick-dry clothing that recovers fast after a shower
Universal travel adapter
Small day pack for city exploration
Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Beirut in January

Explore the old town's cobblestone backstreetsMorning (9-11am)At 16°C, conditions are pleasant for unhurried exploration on foot
Visit hilltop viewpoints for panoramic city viewsLate afternoon (4-6pm)Low sun angle creates dramatic light for photography while temperatures remain comfortable
Bicycle rental for a half-day city circuitMid-morning startMild 16°C temperatures are ideal for extended cycling without excessive effort
Boat tour of the river, bay, or canal networkLate morning departureComfortable weather makes open-deck boats viable without wind-chill concerns
Spend a morning in the national or city art museumOpens at 10am; arrive earlyWith 13 rain days expected, having a full-day indoor plan is practical insurance
Cooking class focused on regional cuisineHalf-day sessions run 10am-1pm or 3-6pmIndoor activity that fills a rainy half-day with genuine cultural content
Visit covered historical sites: cathedral, palace, or bazaarAny time; most crowded middayRoofed monuments and covered markets provide exploration without weather exposure
Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningJanuary brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
Try the seasonal farmer's market for local produce and street foodSaturday morning markets typically 8am-1pmJanuary seasonal produce is at peak availability, offering dishes not found at other times of year

Why is Beirut mild in January?

January in Beirut reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 16°C by day and 8°C overnight. The city sits at 34 degrees north latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. Conditions occupy the comfortable middle band of the annual temperature range, where outdoor activity is feasible without the extremes of midsummer heat or midwinter cold. Day-to-night temperature variation of 8°C is moderate and manageable with a single mid-layer. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Beirut in January

In January, Beirut experiences average highs of 16°C (61°F) and lows of 8°C (46°F). Expect around 13 rainy days and 8 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 8°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.

Beirut typically sees 13 rainy days in January, with total precipitation of around 129mm. Rain is moderate and manageable. Showers tend to pass quickly, and a light rain layer or foldable umbrella is sufficient protection for most days. For context, the driest month in Beirut typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than January.

Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Beirut in January. Temperatures can drop to 8°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is important with 13 rainy days expected. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.

January is a reasonable time to visit Beirut. Expect 13 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 16°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 8 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.

The average high temperature in Beirut in January is 16°C (61°F), and the average low is 8°C (46°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 12°C (54°F). The day-to-night range of 8°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.

The best month to visit Beirut is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 13 hours per day and only 4 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 26°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.

January is shoulder or low season in Beirut, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 8 sunshine hours and 13 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.

In January, Beirut suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 16°C. Mix of indoor and outdoor activities works well given the moderate chance of rain. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 8 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

January ranks 11th sunniest of the year in Beirut, with an average 8 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are July, August, and June. July is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (16°C). From here, temperatures fall 0°C into February. Compared to last month (December: 18°C high, 11 rain days), January is cooler and wetter. January is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.

Year-Round Climate

Month	High	Low	Rain Days	Sun	Details
January	16°C	8°C	13	8h	View
February	16°C	8°C	11	9h	View
March	19°C	10°C	10	10h	View
April	22°C	13°C	7	11h	View
May	26°C	16°C	4	13h	View
June	29°C	20°C	1	13h	View
July	31°C	22°C	0	13h	View
August	31°C	23°C	0	12h	View
September	30°C	21°C	1	11h	View
October	27°C	18°C	5	10h	View
November	22°C	13°C	8	9h	View
December	18°C	10°C	11	8h	View

Other Months in Beirut

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Plan Your Trip to Beirut

Best Time to Visit Beirut Beirut vs Amman in January Beirut vs Jerusalem in January

Nearby Destinations with Similar Weather

These cities are within 500 km and experience broadly comparable weather conditions during the same calendar month, making them practical standalone alternatives or worthwhile additions to a longer regional itinerary.

Amman🇯🇴 Jordan220 km away

13°C4°C low

Jerusalem🇮🇱 Israel238 km away

12°C4°C low

Tel Aviv🇮🇱 Israel212 km away

16°C10°C low

Data Sources for Beirut

Beirut on Wikipedia Open-Meteo Climate API NOAA National Centers UK Met Office WMO GeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.