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Weather Comparison

Athens vs Budapest

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Athens: 12°CBudapest: 3°C1,124 km apart

January Weather: Athens vs Budapest

MetricAthensBudapestBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer12°C (54°F)3°C (37°F)Athens
Average LowHigher is milder5°C (41°F)-3°C (27°F)Athens
Rain DaysFewer is drier8 days8 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier55 mm36 mmBudapest
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier7h/day5h/dayAthens
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better15 km/h15 km/hTie

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Athens edges ahead as the better destination in January. Athens offers 7 hours of daily sunshine with only 8 rain days, while Budapest sees 5 sunshine hours and 8 rain days.

Athens is on the cooler side at 12°C, requiring warmer clothing. Budapest is cooler at 3°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in January. Athens receives 2 more hours of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Athens reaches an average high of 12°C (54°F) and drops to 5°C (41°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Budapest averages 3°C (37°F) for the high and -3°C (27°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°C. There is a notable 9°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

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

Rainfall Comparison in January

Athens receives approximately 55 mm of rainfall across 8 rain days during January. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Budapest sees 36 mm over 8 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Athens vs Budapest

Packing for Athens in January

Highs of 12°C, lows of 5°C, 8 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • a warm scarf

Packing for Budapest in January

Highs of 3°C, lows of -3°C, 8 rain days

  • heavy winter coat
  • thermal base layers
  • warm gloves and hat
  • insulated boots
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella
  • a warm scarf

Pack for both: a packable rain jacket, an umbrella, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Athens vs Budapest

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.

MonthAthensBudapest
HighRainHighRain
Jan12°C8d3°C8d
Feb13°C7d6°C8d
Mar16°C7d11°C8d
Apr20°C6d17°C9d
May25°C5d21°C12d
Jun30°C3d25°C11d
Jul33°C2d27°C10d
Aug33°C1d27°C8d
Sep28°C3d21°C8d
Oct23°C4d16°C8d
Nov18°C7d9°C9d
Dec13°C8d4°C8d
12°

Athens Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

3°

Budapest Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Athens warmer than Budapest in January?
Yes. In January, Athens is warmer with an average high of 12°C (54°F) compared to Budapest at 3°C (37°F), a difference of 9°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Athens or Budapest?
Both cities average 8 rain days in January with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Athens or Budapest in January?
It depends on your preferences. Athens averages 12°C and 7 hours of daily sunshine with 8 rain days. Budapest averages 3°C with 5 sunshine hours and 8 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Athens. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Athens and Budapest?
Athens and Budapest are approximately 1,124 km (698 miles) apart. Athens is located in Greece (Europe) while Budapest is in Hungary (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Athens and Budapest?
For Athens, August tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 33°C. For Budapest, August is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 27°C highs.

Compare Athens and Budapest 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.

Athens coordinates: 37.98°N, 23.73°E | Budapest coordinates: 47.50°N, 19.04°E