What's the weather like in Jerusalem in January
January brings in the New Year with a cold and wet month in Jerusalem.
Temperature
It is the coldest month of the year, though still moderate compared to some climates, with an average temperature of 8°C. The average high temperature throughout this month is 12°C, and the average low is 4°C.
Snow
Snow is rare in Jerusalem thanks to the Mediterranean Sea's nearby warmth; however, an occasional snowfall is possible, so travelers will need to keep an eye on the weather forecast.
Rainfall
The rainy season comes in winter for Jerusalem, and January sees the most rainfall, at an average of 90 mm of rain, and 12 days of rain throughout the month the same as February.
Sunshine Hours
The sun rises around 6:30 in the morning for this capital city, and sets around 17:00 in the evening throughout the month. There is very little change in the sunrise and sunset times during January, and visitors can enjoy touring the historic city on less rainy days.
Humidity and Wind
Low humidity and wind speeds of approximately 10.5 km/hour keep the climate comfortable during the winter in Jerusalem.
Hotels in Jerusalem in January
The King David Hotel
One of the most famous hotels in Jerusalem, The King David Hotel is located on an elevated site, providing beautiful of the historic Old City walls and domes. Built in 1929, the hotel offers historic splendor alongside modern amenities such as free WiFi, 24-hour room service, and a pool. Guests can select a room based on its view whether of the New City or Old City. Spacious rooms make this an excellent choice for families or travelers looking for a luxurious stay. Some suites offer private balconies and jacuzzis. Restaurants are available in the hotel as well, so tired travelers don't have to look far to find a delicious meal after a long day.
Hotel Yehuda
Heading further out, Hotel Yehuda sits atop the Massuah Hills just outside of central Jerusalem, providing a peaceful escape for visitors to the busy city. A modern stone castle, the rooms are spacious and come with amenities like WiFi, a refrigerator, and television. The hotel itself offers plenty of amenities like a restaurant, lobby bar, swimming pool, coffee shop, gym, and a synagogue. Families are welcome and children will enjoy the play gym space as well.
Inbal Hotel
With 238 luxurious rooms and Old City views, the Inbal Hotel offers a variety of options including family-friendly suites, accessible rooms, and meeting rooms and halls for conferences. Though it's located near several boutiques and restaurants, visitors won't even have to leave the hotel to find what they need. A full service beauty salon, wet and dry sauna, fitness gym, swimming pool, restaurant, cafe and bar are all available onsite. Travelers will appreciate amenities like mobile phone rentals, babysitter arrangements, and laundry services.
Orient
Part of the Isrotel luxury Israeli hotel chain, the Orient is conveniently located in the Germany Colony area, within walking distance to many attractions. With 243 rooms, the hotel blends classic designs with modern amenities, such as a rooftop pool, an indoor pool, a gym, saunas, and Turkish hamam. A large conference center can host up to 800 visitors, making it a popular destination for events. A locally-inspired breakfast menu is available, as well as lunch and dinners at the lobby restaurant.
Bars and Restaurants
Mahane Yehuda Market
Locally known as "The Shuk," Mahane Yehuda Market is home to more than 250 vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, meats and cheeses, spices, wines and more. Visitors looking for authentic falafel, shawarma or kebabs will find an excellent selection throughout and around the marketplace. Part of the market is covered while the other part is open-air. Food tours are available, as is a "Bite Card" which works as a self-guided food tour card. The market is bordered by Jaffa Road to the north and Agrippas Street to the south; it is closed on the Sabbath (Saturday).
The First Station
A visit to The First Station will provide travelers with a large selection of restaurants and cafes. Located on the site of the old railway station, this unique spot is now a center for entertainment, culture and cuisine. Options for food include local Jerusalemite cuisine, cafes, Asian cuisines, a pasta bar, a hamburger restaurant, and many more. An ice cream bar and candy store make for excellent dessert options. Families will find plenty of kid-friendly activities in the area as well. The station is open to the public every day of the week.
Katy's
For something a bit more unique, travelers will enjoy a visit to Katy's, a small restaurant located in downtown, serving French bistro cuisine with a uniquely Middle Eastern twist. The Moroccan owner, Katy, is known for spending time with her guests and getting to know each one. In between chatting with Katy, diners can enjoy popular dishes like the house salad, eggplant, and a creme brulee to finish.
Things to do in Jerusalem in January
Church of the Holy Sepulchre
One of the most sacred sites in Jerusalem, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is identified as the location of both the crucifixion and the tomb of Jesus. A major pilgrimage destination for Christians around the world, the church was built in the year 325, by Roman emperor Constantine. A stone exterior and blue domes mark this famed spot, located inside the Old City. Open daily to visitors, the church can become very crowded on holidays, so visitors are advised to arrive early.
Abbey of the Dormition
Another sacred site, this one located at the highest point in Jerusalem, the Abbey of the Dormition sits on Mount Zion, rising above the city. According to Christian tradition, the church is the location where the virgin Mary died. Though the current building was completed in 1910, it has been the location of sacred churches since the early 5th century. Styled like a stone fortress, the church is a sought after stop for both pilgrimages and tourists.
Jewish quarters
The Old City is divided into four quarters, the Christian, Muslim, Armenian and Jewish quarters. The Christian Quarter is located in the northwestern corner and is home to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Muslim Quarter is the largest and most populous, in the northeast corner. The Armenian Quarter is the smallest of the four, though it maintains an independent presence. The Jewish Quarter is in the southeastern section, and has a rich history with a Jewish presence since the 8th century B.C. Much was the Jewish Quarter was destroyed after it was besieged in 1948, though it has since been rebuilt and archaeological discoveries from the area are on display in various museums and parks in the quarter.
Bloomfield Science Museum
For families wishing to escape the rainy weather, the Bloomfield Science Museum is a popular spot for children. Free for children under five, the museum offers something for nearly everyone in the family, including exhibits geared toward parents as well. Interactive exhibits for kids cover topics like computers, space, light and the environment.
