What's the Weather Like in Copenhagen in January?
Cold is the only way to describe Copenhagen in January. This time of the year can be perishingly chilly and is the main reason why most tourists decide to visit during other months. However, if you must travel during this time of the year, try to go during New Year's as the city is still decorated from the Christmas holiday. Just be sure to bring plenty of heavy weather gear to not only guard against the snow and cold, but also the strong northerly winds that can make it feel even colder.
Temperature
The average daily temperature of the month is a very cold 0°C (32°F). Be sure to bundle up first thing in the morning when the average overnight low is -2°C (28°F). Temperatures will not be much warmer in the afternoon hours as the average high will only climb to 2°C (36°F). Combined with the wind coming in off the nearby ocean, the wind chill can make it feel much colder.
Rain and Snow
With temperatures hovering below and just over the freezing mark, Copenhagen experiences plenty of snow during this time of year. The average precipitation for the month will amount to a total of 40mm. This usually frozen precipitation, will fall over a period of 18 days. As a result, much of the month experiences a combination of wet and cold conditions.
Average Sunshine Hours
Owing to Copenhagen's far northerly position on the map, there is not much sun as the region only experiences an average of 4 hours of sunshine per day throughout the month.
Average Sea Temperature
Visitors will also want to stay out of the water during this time of the year as the average water temperature is only 3°C (37°F). This is by far too cold for anyone to try to enjoy. In fact, it will be several months before visitors will be able to take advantage of the region's beautiful local beaches.
Copenhagen Hotels in January
Nimb Hotel
If you're looking for an elegant hotel which provides friendly service in an ideal location, book a room at the Nimb Hotel. Located just a short walk from Copenhagen Central Station and situated within easy access to some of the main sites, this luxurious hotel offers all the features that any discerning traveler will want. With just 17 rooms including nine junior suites, each room features a spacious bathroom, luxurious bedding, and fine antiques.
Hotel Kong Arthur
Enjoy a home away from home at the luxurious Hotel Kong Arthur. The perfect spot for a January holiday, this hotel features a spa, cozy fireplace, three restaurants, and a fully-equipped fitness center. The boutique hotel is located in the center of Copenhagen and within easy reach to nightlife, shopping and important sites. Each of the 155 rooms is uniquely decorated with no two the same.
Copenhagen Island Hotel
Those in pursuit of a more contemporary hotel should look no further than the Copenhagen Island Hotel. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, you won't be disappointed with amenities that include an on-site restaurant, bar with harbour views, free WiFi throughout the hotel, fitness center and bike rentals. Additionally, most of the hotel's 326 rooms also come with waterfront views.
Bars and Restaurants
Denmark and the Scandinavian peninsula used to have a reputation for stodgy, unimaginative food but this perception is soon disappearing thanks to the city's up-and-coming dining and bar scene, aided by its status as one of the coolest cities in Europe. Copenhagen has also long celebrated its coffee house culture and offers visitors a huge array of places to warm up in the winter months with a hot drink.
Den Lille Fede Restaurant
Inspired by new Nordic cuisine, Den Lille Fede Restaurant stands out as a fine example of Copenhagen's burgeoning dining scene. The menu here is in regular rotation as chefs come up with creative ways to bring the best of Scandinavian cooking to the table. Most diners end up deciding on the full five courses available and will leave wanting to return again; booking a table is highly recommended.
Tight
Located in a building dating back to the 1800s, Tight offers a warm and inviting atmosphere thanks to the exposed brick, wood beams and old stone walls. The restaurant's menu is varied and there's a big emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced produce here. The addition of friendly and knowledgeable staff makes this eatery a real winner with both tourists and locals in Copenhagen.
The Jane
1920s-themed speakeasy bars have been popping up in cities all over Europe and Copenhagen is no exception to the rule. The Jane ranks as one of the coolest even hangout spots in this category, comprising delicious cocktails and a cosy environment of plush armchairs, paneled walls and low lighting.
Things to do in Copenhagen in January
Sandeman's New Europe
Because of the fiercely cold winters in Copenhagen, January is not the best time to be doing a lot of outdoor sightseeing, although its streets are worth exploring as long as you make sure you're wrapped up warm for the elements. Sandeman's New Europe offer concise walking tours of the city, whose friendly and knowledgeable guides will bring the heritage of the city to life as you visit the iconic sights of the city such as the Nyhavn Canal, the harbourside and Fredriksholm Island, the seat of the Danish Parliament. The tours are free and run throughout the day, although you need to reserve a place online in advance.
Copenhagen Lakes
Head across the Copenhagen Lakes by foot or bike from the Old Town to the trendy neighbourhood of Norrebro, which makes a great place to spend an afternoon. Originally a working class district, this part of town has been given a new lease of life and is known for its cafes, restaurants, open spaces and quirky vintage shops. The area is also home to the Assistens Cemetery, a resting place to some of the country's most famous citizens and an ideal place for a relaxing walk.
Rosenborg Palace
Despite its relative size, Copenhagen has more than its fair share of castles and royal palaces, and they're really worth exploring. Seated in the centre of town and surrounded by well-tended parkland you'll find the ornate Rosenborg Palace, which dates back to the 17th century and houses an impressive collection of artwork and treasures from the past 400 years of Danish dynasties.
H.C. Andersen Fairytale House
Another attraction that merits a visit is the H.C. Andersen Fairytale House, which illustrates the life the famous author, who ranks as one of the greatest storytellers in the world. Located within the Ripley's Museum Copenhagen, the exhibit touches upon the life and works of Andersen thanks to sound and lighting effects which make it a great attraction for adults and children alike.
