Weather
January is mid-winter in Romania. The country is broadly divided into three climatic zones: the area west of the Carpathian Mountains, with milder winters; the eastern region, with very cold winters; and the coastal Black Sea region with a more Mediterranean climate and mild winters. Overall, the average temperature range in Romania in January is between 21° and 33°F (-6° and 1°C), with low-to-moderate rain or snowfall. However, much colder temperatures aren't uncommon, and icy winds from Russia add to the chill.
Crowds & Costs
January is the low season for travel to Romania. Most foreign travelers visit in the warmer summer months. Prices are lower in January and you're unlikely to encounter any crowds. Even the ski resorts are less crowded (and generally smaller) than those you'll find further west in Europe.
Where to Go
Most travelers won't find the conditions in Romania in January very suitable for a tightly packed itinerary. If you want to visit Romania in January, it would be better to pick one or two smaller regions that are close to a city like Bucharest, Sibiu, Brasov, or Cluj-Napoca. You can retreat indoors to cafes and museums if the weather is uncomfortable outside.
To ski, head to the Carpathian Mountains. Poiana Brasov is one of the most popular and luxurious ski resorts in Romania, and has been voted one of the most affordable ski resorts in Europe. It contains a 14-mile (23 km) ski and snowboarding slope and is located near the city of Brasov.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
What to Do
As well as skiing and snowboarding, there are other winter activities you can enjoy in January. Take a traditional sleigh ride between villages in Transylvania, or keep your eyes open for the tracks of wild animals like bears, wolves, lynx, boar, and deer in the snow. Romania's mountains are full of impressive wildlife.
Events in January
New Year's Holiday, 1-2 January. Romanians take holidays on New Year's Day and the day after.
Unification Day, 24th January. This national holiday commemorates the unification of the Romanian Principalities on this date in 1859.
Traveling to Romania in January? Check out these great itineraries
Discover Medieval Romania - 6 Days. Discover medieval architecture and modern culture in Romanian as you travel by train around the country on this 6-day itinerary.
Medieval History & Regional Cuisine in Romania - 5 Days. This unique 5-day tour highlights three of the best things about Romania: castles, medieval cities, and food.
Dracula's Bran Castle - Day Trip. Lovers of folklore and fairy tales shouldn't miss this day trip to Bran Castle in Transylvania, known for its links to the legend of Dracula.