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Weather Comparison

Chisinau vs Kyiv

Side-by-side weather comparison for January

Chisinau: 2°CKyiv: -2°C401 km apart

January Weather: Chisinau vs Kyiv

MetricChisinauKyivBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer2°C (36°F)-2°C (28°F)Chisinau
Average LowHigher is milder-5°C (23°F)-6°C (21°F)Chisinau
Rain DaysFewer is drier7 days9 daysChisinau
PrecipitationLess is drier34 mm34 mmTie
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier4h/day3h/dayChisinau
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer11Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better15 km/h19 km/hChisinau

Which City is Better in January?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Chisinau edges ahead as the better destination in January. Chisinau offers 4 hours of daily sunshine with only 7 rain days, while Kyiv sees 3 sunshine hours and 9 rain days.

Chisinau is on the cooler side at 2°C, requiring warmer clothing. Kyiv is cooler at -2°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Chisinau is the stronger choice in January. Chisinau receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in January

Chisinau reaches an average high of 2°C (36°F) and drops to -5°C (23°F) at night during January. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Kyiv averages -2°C (28°F) for the high and -6°C (21°F) for the low, with a daily range of 4°C. The 4°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

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

Rainfall Comparison in January

Chisinau receives approximately 34 mm of rainfall across 7 rain days during January. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.

Kyiv sees 34 mm over 9 rain days. That makes Chisinau the drier option by 2 rain days and 0 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Chisinau vs Kyiv

Packing for Chisinau in January

Highs of 2°C, lows of -5°C, 7 rain days

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

Packing for Kyiv in January

Highs of -2°C, lows of -6°C, 9 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: heavy winter coat, thermal base layers, warm gloves and hat, insulated boots, a packable rain jacket, an umbrella, a warm scarf. These items are useful in either destination during January.

Year-Round Comparison: Chisinau vs Kyiv

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.

MonthChisinauKyiv
HighRainHighRain
Jan2°C7d-2°C9d
Feb4°C6d0°C8d
Mar9°C8d5°C9d
Apr16°C9d14°C9d
May22°C11d20°C11d
Jun26°C10d23°C11d
Jul28°C9d25°C12d
Aug28°C7d24°C8d
Sep22°C7d19°C9d
Oct15°C6d12°C8d
Nov8°C6d5°C8d
Dec3°C7d0°C9d
2°

Chisinau Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

-2°

Kyiv Weather in January

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chisinau warmer than Kyiv in January?
Yes. In January, Chisinau is warmer with an average high of 2°C (36°F) compared to Kyiv at -2°C (28°F), a difference of 4°C.
Which city gets more rain in January, Chisinau or Kyiv?
Kyiv gets more rain in January with 9 rain days and 34 mm of precipitation. Chisinau is the drier option with 7 rain days.
Is it better to visit Chisinau or Kyiv in January?
It depends on your preferences. Chisinau averages 2°C and 4 hours of daily sunshine with 7 rain days. Kyiv averages -2°C with 3 sunshine hours and 9 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Chisinau. For drier weather, Chisinau is the better pick.
How far apart are Chisinau and Kyiv?
Chisinau and Kyiv are approximately 401 km (249 miles) apart. Chisinau is located in Moldova (Europe) while Kyiv is in Ukraine (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Chisinau and Kyiv?
For Chisinau, July tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 28°C. For Kyiv, June is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 23°C highs.

Compare Chisinau and Kyiv 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.

Chisinau coordinates: 47.01°N, 28.86°E | Kyiv coordinates: 50.45°N, 30.52°E