The festive atmosphere is still present in the city, and the evening lights and the Christmas decor in the shop windows remind us of the festivities. On the second of January, the streets come alive after a day off, welcoming the start of the year and smiling at tourists. Munich's official motto is "Munich Loves You", so expect a warm welcome and fit even in the coldest month. Welcome to January Bavaria!
Holidays in Munich in January: pros and cons of winter travel
If you've wanted to visit Bavaria for a long time but haven't had the chance until January, here's the reassurance: the main attractions in this part of Germany don't depend on the season.
The famous Bavarian breweries are open all year round and produce quality beers that please tourists and locals alike. Munich's excellent art galleries are as good as any of the world's finest exhibition halls and cater to visitors almost daily. So the reviews of holidays in Munich in January are hot and positive.
Here are the clear advantages of a January trip:
- Although January is the coldest month of the year, the average temperature is around -1°C and sometimes it can rise to +10°C by the end of the month. You can safely plan your hike, but make sure you have comfortable shoes and a warm jacket.
- New Year's sales pick up, and by the end of the month, the percentage of discounts increases and the flow of tourists decreases. For culture and shopping lovers alike, this is a golden time.
- A trip to Munich in January is an excellent idea for a family-friendly winter holiday. There is plenty of entertainment for children of all ages.
When planning a trip, it is worth considering all factors, including the time of year and its peculiarities. The disadvantages of travelling are also worth exploring to avoid unpleasant surprises. The downsides are minor, but we will certainly mention them:
- When temperatures drop below -10°C or even -20°C, abnormal winters occur. This is extremely rare, but it is best to check the recommendations of the weather forecasters before you travel. It can also be humid and windy, so pack an extra pair of warm clothes, warm shoes and an umbrella.
- Munich's beautiful parks are drab and grey in January, and fountains are mostly covered with wooden screens, so you won't get to see all the city's beauty in January.
- And if you're planning a trip with the little ones, it's better to postpone it two to three months later, when it's warmer, so strolling with a pram will be much more comfortable.
Munich weather in January
Although Munich has mild winters and a temperate climate, the weather in January and February is at its coldest and snowiest. But this Bavarian city has its unique feature: the phenomenon of the föhn. The cold air from the Alps warms up, and the city feels like a warm breeze, similar to the air from a föhn. It can change the weather and even the temperature in minutes. The phenomenon is so familiar that locals sometimes jokingly attribute their bad moods to the föhn.
The weather at the beginning of January is quite cool, with daytime temperatures around 0°C and night-time temperatures averaging -5°C, but often one to two weeks with air temperatures of -10°C or lower and a steady snow cover. In mid-January, Temperatures in Munich can range from -2°C to +2°C and down to -10°C.
If you are planning your holiday in January, don't forget about warm clothing and footwear for you and your child. The weather in Munich at the end of January may not be as cold, with temperatures ranging from -5°C at night to +2°C during the day.
Air temperature
Munich's continental climate is influenced by its altitude and proximity to the Alps. Winters are cold, with rare heavy rain or snowfall, and temperatures average around -3°C. Thus, temperatures in Munich in January can range from -10°C at night to 0°C during the day, which is variable given the topography and location of the city.
Air temperature in Munich in January
Based on long-term observations by weather forecasters, the average daytime temperature in Munich in January is +1,8°C, while the average night-time temperature is -1,8°C. However, check the short-term forecasts before you travel if a cold spell is planned and you'll need another warm jumper.
Amount of precipitation
The proximity of the mountains affects not only the temperature figures but also the nature of the precipitation: it can start suddenly and powerfully. The snow or rain in January is around 75,6 mm, with rainy or snowy days averaging about ten. So if you're travelling in January, you can probably catch a steady snow cover and a mild winter with mild temperatures. However, the snow lasts up to a fortnight or two.
Sunny, cloudy and overcast days
The coldest month of winter doesn't often see sunny days, but there are as many as five. There are around eight-nine days of cloudy skies in January, so you'll have the chance to glimpse the sun peeking through the clouds. There are 17 days in January with overcast skies, but warm and cosy bars and cafes will keep you warm with hot or cold drinks.
Excursion holidays: What to see in January
At the beginning of January, the flow of tourists is still high because even though the festive rush is behind us, the winter holiday period begins. Many people opt for Bavaria with its unique atmosphere, beauty and views of the Alps. And even if there is a light frost outside and the snow is falling gently, the sights of Munich always await the visitor because the city has centuries of history to tell.
Since the founding of Munich in the 12th century, its central square has been the Marienplatz, named after the column of St. Mary, which appeared there in the 16th century; before that, the square was known as Schrannenplatz. Its landmark is the imposing New Town Hall. The 85-metre tower's observation deck offers excellent views of Munich, especially as it has a lift. The Town Hall Clock deserves special attention. The chime of the clock, produced by 43 bells, is accompanied by scenes from medieval life, which show 32 almost human-sized figures.
Even if you're a sophisticated traveller and have seen a lot, you've hardly ever had to brew beer and taste it immediately. In mid-January, when the weather is still frosty and you want to warm up, visit the Kulmbach Brewery Museum. Opened over 20 years ago, it covers four floors and 3,000 square metres. Here you can discover all the intricacies of brewing, see the most ancient and modern equipment and be invited to visit the Beer Garden and the Museum of the Bakery.
The Munich CityTourCard can be a nice bonus for tourists to save money on sightseeing and food. In addition to discounts on museum visits, the booklet with the card may include deals on dining, souvenirs, bicycle rentals and other entertainment. Buying the card for a group of five people is considerably cheaper.
Long walks can be uncomfortable even at the end of January, so it's an excellent time to visit one of the world's most famous galleries, the Old Pinakothek. More than 700 paintings by well-known artists from the 14th and 18th centuries exist in 19 rooms and 49 study rooms. It's well worth spending a whole day on this tour, so it's worth getting hold of a gallery card. Admission is free for children under 18 and €1 for adults on Sundays without an audio guide.
The third most famous and tallest museum in Munich is the BMW Museum. The company's developments, from the earliest to the most modern, can be seen here. With a total area of around 5,000 square metres, it impresses with its futuristic architecture, interactive exhibits and modern design. Every year it welcomes approximately 250,000 visitors. The museum is open every day except Mondays and public holidays.
Holidays, events and festivals
The family-friendly, fun and most anticipated festivities of December are behind us and will give way to the equally appealing events of January. The celebrations in Munich in January bring together quite a few locals and tourists to indulge in fun activities and delicious food, keeping the coldest time of year free of boredom.
- Almost immediately after New Year's Eve, Munich's 'Jester Season' begins and lasts until nearly mid-February, ending on 'Shrove Tuesday'. It's a carnival period in which people dress up as evil spirits and demons, covering their faces with masks to banish winter. It's reminiscent of Shrovetide and Saying Goodbye to Winter. During this festival, people race around in a horned sleigh, a typical old-time means of transporting hay and firewood. The locals in carnival costumes come out of the sleigh at breakneck speed. And it's not hard to guess that the rowdy revelry is accompanied by laughter and delicious street food.
- January 6 is traditionally celebrated in Munich as Epiphany or Three Kings' Feast. Children dressed as wise men collect donations and hand them over to the needy while festive masses are observed in the churches. This festival is trendy in Bavaria. Therefore, if you travel in January, you can learn more about German culture and see whole processions of children dressed in crowns and white robes.
Shopping
January is a well-known shopper's paradise. Official sales start in the second half of January and last 3 to 4 weeks. Shops in this period offer discounts of up to 50%, but if you are lucky, you can buy goods at a price 70 - 80% below the original. And sales are everywhere: in shopping malls, outlet shops, appliance shops, and small boutiques. A trip to Munich in January, therefore, promises to be full not only of culture but also of bargains.
Remember, however, that the shops are closed on Sundays and on Saturday the working day ends at 4 p.m., and the flow of customers increases manifold. It is, therefore, best to plan your shopping trip for weekdays.
If you don't have much time for shopping, you can visit Marienplatz, the city's central square, and go shopping immediately after sightseeing.
Cost of vacation
The first month of the new year is very popular with tourists, so prices in Munich go up by 10 - 15% in January. Winter holidays and sales season fall this month, so it's a popular month for travelling.
Airfares
It's not hard to guess that if the flow of tourists increases, airlines are not idle — they raise prices. Compared to December, they rise by 10 - 15%. Thus, January is one of the most expensive months regarding flight prices. Book your tickets a few months in advance if you want to save money.
Package Tours
It's the same with tours: Finding the best price shortly before a trip is challenging, and the choice of available hotels and accommodation is limited. Prices also increased by 10 - 15% compared to the previous month and only started to fall slightly closer to February.
Food
Food prices in Munich usually have little regard for seasonality. But whatever they are, when you come to this city, you'll be in for a gastronomic shock at the food's taste, portion size and calorie content.
The most famous brewery, the Hofbräuhaus, offers favourite Bavarian beers and traditional food. A pint of ale costs around €9, the famous white Bavarian sausages cost around €7, a marinated pork knuckle with sauerkraut costs €12.90 and Munich's roast beef with dumplings and cranberries costs the same.
Tips for holidays with children
The winter holidays are an excellent opportunity for a family holiday. We recommend taking the little ones to Munich to warmer climes, as the chilly, humid air doesn't encourage strolling. You can enjoy sampling Bavarian cuisine and learning about Bavarian traditions and culture. The BMW Museum is an excellent place for boys and dads, and the Toy Museum is a must-see for everyone. Munich's Crone Circus offers plenty of entertainment, while a trip to the film studio provides an exciting insight into the region's film industry.
January is not particularly balmy, with the coldest winter months on record. But you can be sure that Bavaria will be warm and hospitable, and the locals will forever repeat their "bitte" with a smile because Munich loves you! Smile back and enjoy your holiday and let our recommendations help you make your winter holiday unforgettable.
