Czech Republic in January: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for January
Average temperature across Czech Republic in January.
City Weather in January
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prague | 3° | -2° | 22 mm | low | Cold |
| Brno | 2° | -4° | 23 mm | low | Freezing |
| Ostrava | 2° | -4° | 28 mm | low | Freezing |
| Plzeň | 2° | -4° | 43 mm | low | Freezing |
| Liberec | 1° | -4° | 36 mm | low | Freezing |
| Olomouc | 2° | -4° | 25 mm | low | Freezing |
| České Budějovice | 2° | -4° | 42 mm | low | Freezing |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Prague & Central Bohemia
A January morning in Prague is often frosty and still; river ice is rare but pavements and Castle District steps will be icy and require good footwear. Temperatures typically sit around -1 to 3°C, with occasional heavier snow that turns the Old Town quiet and photogenic. Public transport runs reliably but expect some delays on suburban rails when heavy snow or freezing rain occurs. Pack a warm coat, waterproof shoes and plan shorter daylight itineraries; museum queues are shorter than in summer.
South Bohemia & Šumava
Deep winter in the Šumava foothills brings reliable snow at higher elevations and frosty mornings in towns like Český Krumlov and Lipno. Skiing and cross-country trails open on the higher plateaus, while the historic town centres are quieter and ideal for cosy inn meals. Roads over forested passes can be icy-winter tyres and cautious driving are essential for self-drivers. Bring warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy boots for snow-covered cobbled streets.
Northern Bohemia & Krkonoše (Mountains)
A January in the Krkonoše often means deep snow, subzero temperatures, and strong winds across alpine ridgelines; Sněžka and other peaks are frequently wind-scoured and icy. Ski resorts such as Špindlerův Mlýn are in full operation with extensive cross-country networks, though avalanches and strong gales occasionally close high trails. Visitors should pack insulated winter gear and expect mountain transport to run on winter timetables.
Bohemian-Moravian Highlands (Vysočina) & South Bohemian Uplands
January mornings on the Vysočina plateau are often the coldest in the country, with frosts common and topography-enhanced snowfall that lingers in sheltered valleys. Skiing and cross-country are possible at higher spots near Jihlava, though trails can be icy; village roads are sometimes narrow and snow-packed. Those chasing quiet countryside walks should bring insulated boots and expect shorter daylight hours.
South Moravia (Brno, Pálava, Lednice)
January in South Moravia is relatively mild compared with the mountains, with daytime temperatures often a few degrees above freezing and only intermittent snow. Brno streets remain walkable and many wine cellars around Mikulov offer warm tastings; vineyard landscapes are dormant but atmospheric. Expect shorter daylight and pack a warm coat-winery visits are comfortable indoors, though countryside paths can be wet or icy.
Moravian-Silesian Beskids & Jeseníky (Eastern Mountains)
January brings classic winter conditions to the Beskids and Jeseníky: deep snow at higher elevations, subzero temperatures, and busy ski resorts around Ostravice and Karlova Studánka. Cross-country tracks and downhill slopes are in regular use while mountain roads may be snow-packed; avalanches are limited but possible on steep slopes. Warm, waterproof clothing and winter driving skills are essential for exploring isolated trails.