Syria in January: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for January
Average temperature across Syria in January.
City Weather in January
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aleppo | 10° | 2° | 57 mm | low | Cold |
| Damascus | 11° | 2° | 67 mm | low | Cold |
| Homs | 11° | 2° | 78 mm | low | Cold |
| Latakia | 15° | 8° | 154 mm | low | Cool |
| Raqqa | 11° | 2° | 32 mm | low | Cold |
| Hama | 12° | 4° | 76 mm | low | Cold |
| Tartus | 15° | 7° | 162 mm | low | Cool |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Coastal Plain (Latakia & Tartus)
Clouds and rain dominate the shoreline in January, with daytime temperatures usually in the low to mid teens and damp air that feels colder near Latakia and Tartus. Heavy winter storms can bring several days of steady rain and rough seas, so ferries and small coastal excursions are sometimes delayed. Travelers should pack a waterproof layer and expect wet sidewalks and fewer beach crowds; museums and waterfront cafés are far more inviting than sunbathing at this time.
Coastal Mountains (Jabal al-Nusayriyah / Slinfah & resorts)
January in the coastal highlands brings frequent rain, low clouds and regular snow at higher elevations such as Slinfah; daytime temperatures fall into the single digits above 800-1,000 m. Roads up to mountain villages can be slippery or snowbound after storms, so winter driving requires care and local advice; mountain restaurants and guesthouses are cozy options. Pack warm layers, a waterproof outer shell, and be ready for sudden weather changes while enjoying dramatic sea-and-mountain vistas.
Northwest & Aleppo Region (Aleppo, Idlib, Afrin)
January commonly delivers cold, damp weather around Aleppo and Idlib, with daytime temperatures near freezing in the city and occasional snowfall on surrounding hills. Streets can be muddy and some rural dirt roads tricky after rain; central markets and covered souks are welcoming shelter. Pack warm layers and be prepared for short, cold days if you plan city walking or excursions to nearby archaeological sites.
Damascus & Anti-Lebanon Foothills (Damascus, Ghouta, Qasioun, Mount Hermon foothills)
January is characteristically cool and wet in Damascus, with daytime temperatures often around 8-12°C and regular winter showers that green the Ghouta orchards. Snow may dust Mount Qasioun and the Anti-Lebanon peaks, sometimes settling on high neighborhoods, but the city center usually sees rain rather than deep snow. Bring warm layers and waterproof shoes; indoor attractions and cafés are especially pleasant on rainy afternoons.
Euphrates Valley & Plains (Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, Euphrates corridor)
January is one of the coolest months along the Euphrates corridor: daytime temperatures are mild to cool, nights can be chilly, and the riverbanks show winter greenness. Morning fogs or low clouds occasionally linger in the river valleys, and inland towns are quieter after the harvest season. Dress in layers for cooler evenings, bring sun protection for bright daytime sun, and expect limited services in smaller towns in winter.
Syrian Desert / Palmyra and the Badia (Tadmor, Palmyra, eastern steppe)
January is cold at night across the Badia with daytime sunshine that feels crisp and dry; in settlements like Palmyra temperatures are mild by day but can drop near freezing after sunset. Frost and strong morning chills are common, and ruins under early winter light have a solemn clarity. Travelers should bring warm layers for evenings and watches for clear, frigid nights and limited services in remote areas.