Mexico City in January for Weather, Events and things to Do
Visiting Mexico City in January? Here’s what you need to know about visiting CDMX in the winter.
If you’re wondering if January is a good time to visit Mexico City, the answer is a definite yes!
This vibrant city is awesome year-round, always offering a great cultural and fun experience, and the first month of the year is a good opportunity to explore the city at your own pace.
Mexico City in January is the perfect destination to kick-start your adventures as a new year begins, with relatively mild weather, and the chance to experience everything the dynamic city has to offer while escaping the winter cold in other parts of the world.
Although the December festive spirit is almost over, Mexico City in January still has a few traditional holiday activities to offer, such as Día de Reyes (Kings Day).
In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the perks of Mexico City in January, including what to pack, where to go, what to do, and what to see.
Mexico City in January: What Is It Like?
👉🏽 Is January a Good Time to Visit Mexico City?
Yes, January is a great time to visit Mexico City, as the mild weather allows for pleasant excursions to iconic historical sites, museums, and parks without sweating it out or having to wear stuffy winter apparel.
January is considered shoulder season in Mexico City, which translates to fewer tourists and shorter lines at popular attractions.
This is an ideal time to immerse yourself in the city’s rich historical and cultural experiences, as you can explore the city’s museums, neighborhoods, and markets taking your own sweet time.
Although Mexican cuisine is delicious all year long, January is a good time to indulge in winter goodies like hot chocolate, ponche (spiced fruit punch), pozole (white corn and meat stew), and sweet bread, most notably the traditional Rosca de Reyes.
👉🏽 Is it Cheaper in Mexico City in January?
While January is the calmest month in Mexico City, tourist-wise, as most Mexicans and residents return to work and school after Three Kings Day, it is not the cheapest time of the year to travel.
However, prices do drop from the dramatic rise during the winter holidays in December, and there are often good flight and accommodation deals to be found after New Year and before the spring break frenzy begins.
As for attractions and meal prices, they tend to remain fixed throughout the year.
👉🏽 Is Mexico City Safe to Travel To in January?
Yes, Mexico City is safe year-round as long as you take regular precautions This means not walking in dark alleys late at night, keeping your belongings close at all times, and watching out for pickpockets, especially in the Cento Historico area.
In short, be alert and take precautions as you would in any city at any time of the year.
👉🏽 Mexico City Weather in January
Mexico City in January varies considerably throughout the day, with temperatures ranging from 43°F (6°C) in the early morning and evening to 75°F (24°C) midday and early afternoon.
👉🏽 Mexico City Temperature in January
The average temperature in Mexico City in January ranges from 43°F (6°C) in the evenings to 75°F (24°C) during the day.
👉🏽 What Season is January in Mexico City?
January in Mexico is the winter season, although it is not harsh or extremely cold.
👉🏽 Is January Rainy in Mexico City?
It is not usually rainy in Mexico City, as it falls in the middle of the dry season, although an occasional drizzle or rainshower is possible.
👉🏽 How Do People Dress in Mexico City in January?
January sees mild, sunny days and cold evenings, so people tend to dress in layers to deal with the changes in temperatures.
It is a bearable cold if you compare it to other parts of the world, though, giving you a chance to show off your fall coats, jackets, and other apparel.
Best Places to Visit in Mexico City in January
1. Centro Historico
The Centro Histórico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a large area in downtown Mexico City that is considered one of the most important historic centers in the world.
Mexico City´s Centro Historico is beheld as the heart of the country, housing relevant iconic landmarks such as the Zocalo main plaza, National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, the Templo Mayor Mexica archaeological ruins, Bellas Artes Palace, and innumerable churches, museums, restaurants, and shops.
2. Chapultepec Park
Chapultepec Park is a huge urban park right smack in the center of Mexico City, spanning more than 1,600 acres.
The park boasts a diverse range of attractions, including museums, cultural centers hosting various activities, gardens, fountains, a zoo, exercise areas, and the only European castle on the American continent (Palacio de Chapultepec), where Maximilian and his wife Carlota resided while their short reign in Mexico took place.
3. Frida Kahlo Museum
The Frida Kahlo Museum, best known as Casa Azul (Blue House), resides in what was the actual home of the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and her husband Diego Rivera.
Boasting a large collection of her artwork, the museum pays tribute to the artist’s work and life, preserving the original furnishings and her personal belongings like clothing, jewelry, open paint tubes and brushes, letters, and other items.
When you’re done, you can explore Coyoacan’s central plaza, the famous crafts market, and Viveros de Coyoacan Park for a dose of nature.
4. National Museum of Anthropology
The National Museum of Anthropology is always a good place to visit in January in Mexico City.
It is a huge complex in the Chapultepec Park area housing a vast collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts that showcase the rich history and lifestyle of Mexico’s indigenous peoples over the centuries.
5. Palacio de Bellas Artes
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is an impressive art deco building located in the downtown area of Mexico City.
Considered both a museum and a theater, the baroque palace houses stunning murals while serving as host to artistic events, including opera.
6. Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the most famous religious sites in Mexico and a significant pilgrimage spot for millions of Catholics who visit annually.
The compound houses both the Old Basilica and the New Basilica, where the celebrated image of the Virgin Mary is preserved.
January in Mexico City is a relatively slow month, pilgrimage-wise, and a good time to visit. You´ll find plenty of shops and stands touting religious souvenirs in the surrounding area.
7. Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral
Located in the Centro Historico, the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in Mexico City, as well as one of the most famous religious and historical buildings on the continent.
Whether you’re religious or not, it is worth a visit to admire the baroque architecture and works of art housed inside.
8. Teotihuacan Pyramids
Venture just outside the city to visit the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacán. Climb the Pyramid of the Sun for a breathtaking view of the archaeological site and the surrounding fields. You’ll find many tours available for a day outing to this unique site.
Mexico City Holidays and Events in January
🎊 New Year’s Day (January 1st)
January 1st, as happens in most parts of the world, is a lazy day in Mexico City.
Considered a work holiday, many people stay at home after a night of New Year partying on December 31st.
Fret not, though, as you can still take advantage if you’re visiting Mexico´s capital on this day.
You can take a walk along the Centro Historicos streets to admire the architecture and Christmas decorations from the outside, or take a stroll in Alameda Park, then walk or bike along Reforma Avenue to see the hundreds of beautiful poinsettias displayed.
Another option is to walk in the iconic Roma and Condesa neighborhoods.
Although most businesses are closed on New Year’s Day, at some point you´re liable to find something open where you can grab a cup of coffee and a bite to eat.
🎊 Dia de Reyes – Three Kings Day (January 6th)
Dia de Reyes marks the three wise men’s visit to baby Jesus, and you can take part in the festive spirit by witnessing several cultural events that take place on that day, as well as try the traditional Rosca de Reyes sweet bread that is baked for the occasion.
You can buy whole Roscas de Reyes in local bakeries, or try a slice in restaurants and cafes.
If you’re on the adventurous side, head to the Zocalo to participate in the humongous, Ripleys Award-winning rosca that is served every year. It is completely free, but it does get crowded.
For Mexican families, Kings’ Day is as big a deal as Santa Claus is in the US and other countries, with children eagerly awaiting Melchior, Gaspar, and Baltazar to bring their toys and gifts during the night.
Don’t be surprised to find markets and street stands open all night long on December 5th, as merchants go the whole mile before officially closing the Xmas season on January 7th.
What to Pack for Mexico City in January
Temperatures in Mexico City in January vary significantly, with early mornings and evenings becoming quite chilly, and mild, sunny weather during the day.
Packing some layers is advisable, to deal with the temperature changes. Be sure to bring t-shirts and lightweight tops, along with a jacket, sweater, cardigan, or hoodie, depending on your style. Jeans or long pants and comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Stylish fall coats and boots are always a good idea, too!
Mexico City in January Travel Tips
📌 The holiday season in Mexico officially ends on January 7, the day after Three Kings Day (Día de Reyes).
So, if you want to catch some Christmas spirit, be sure to book your visit on the first days of the month.
Expect things to slow down considerably in the second week, at least on the tourist side, meaning fewer crowds.
📌 It is always a good idea to book accommodations and activities in advance, especially in the first week of January, as it is still a busy time for national and international tourism.
📌 Pack layers of clothing, as the weather can be mild during the day but chilly in the evenings when the temperature drops.
📌 Enjoy all the traditional Mexican holiday foods such as tamales, pozole, ponche, and the traditional Rosca de Reyes,
📌 Take a walk or bike along Reforma Avenue, especially if you happen to visit on the first days of January before the hundreds of red poinsettias are removed.
📌 Visit the Christmas markets all over the city, which are open until January 7th.
📌 Head to La Alameda Park in the downtown area if you want to get a full scope of the Dia de Reyes traditions that have persisted for centuries.
📌 If you get the urge for some warmer, tropical weather, you can make a day trip to Cuernavaca or Tequesquitengo in no time.
📌 Mexico City offers several means of transportation, including the metro, metrobus, and Uber, as well as bike and motorcycle rentals.
If you plan on using public transport, purchase an MI card, available in Metro and Metrobus station dispensers. It costs $20 pesos (a little over a dollar/euro).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico City Warm in January?
In general terms, the days are usually sunny in January, allowing you to explore the city with a light sweater or hoodie on hand.
Occasional cloudy days might require a light coat or scarf, so it is best to come prepared.
Temperatures usually go from 75°F during the day to the 40s°F at night and early morning.
What Part of Mexico is Best in January?
It depends on what you’re after, but if you’re aiming for a tropical and warm beach getaway, coastal destinations like Cancun, Tulum, Puerto Vallarta, and Sayulita are perfect.
If you want snow, you can head over to Creel in Chihuahua or go all in and take the Chepe train route through Copper Canyon, which looks incredible covered in white snow!
How Hot is Mexico City in January?
Mexico City is not hot in January, although the days are usually sunny and quite pleasant, especially if you plan to explore for hours on end.
You can expect temperatures around 75°F during the day, dipping to about 40°F at night.
Is it Cold in Mexico in January?
Although it does get chilly, Mexico City enjoys mild and pleasant weather in January.
Temperatures during this time hover around 75°F during the day and 40°F in the evenings, which is a nice respite from harder winters in other parts of the world.
This mild climate allows you to explore the city without sweltering in the summer heat or bundling up in stuffy winter apparel.
Does it Snow in Mexico City in January?
No, it doesn’t snow in Mexico City. The last time it snowed in the city happened in the late 60s.
It was so unusual, though, that people who experienced it still talk about it every now and then.
Is Mexico City Dry in January?
Mexico City is usually dry in January, with the rainy season long gone, although an occasional drizzle or shower can and does happen.
What is a Popular Celebration in Mexico City in January?
Mexico City hosts several events in January, stretching the Christmas holidays for a few days.
If you happen to visit for New Year’s Eve, you’ll find a number of events and festivities held in private restaurants and public plazas that will carry on until well after midnight, including the spectacular fireworks in the Zócalo right at midnight.
January 6th, Dia de Reyes (Three Kings Day), marks the visit of the three wise men to baby Jesus.
Locals and tourists alike participate in colorful parades and enjoy the traditional Rosca de Reyes sweet bread.
Does Mexico City Get Cold at Night in January?
Yes, nights can get pretty chilly at night in Mexico City in January.
Because of the high altitude, the city experiences cooler temperatures compared to other parts of the country.
Average nighttime temperatures in December usually roam in the 40s (°F), although they can sometimes drop even more.
What is the Best Month to Visit Mexico City?
The best month to visit Mexico City depends on what you’re after, but in terms of weather, March-April and October-November are fantastic for mild and dry weather.
March and April can get pretty warm, with the pretty Jacaranda trees showing off their purple blooms throughout Reforma and the downtown area.
October and November are somewhat chillier but still sunny, and you’ll get to experience the full scope of Day of the Dead celebrations.
Final Thoughts: Mexico City in January
Visiting Mexico City in January is a great choice if you’re aiming for a blend of cultural richness and mild weather while escaping the crowds.
Whether you’re into historic sites, local festivities, or the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine, this vibrant city will deliver.
Make lasting memories as you explore the city and discover the magic of Mexico City in January while you escape the harsh cold of other parts of the world.
Before You Go…
Here are some useful posts that you may be interested in:
- The 23 Best Boutique Hotels in Mexico City (2023)
- Is Mexico City Worth Visiting in 2023?
- 23 Fun Things to Do in Mexico City at Night- The Ultimate Guide [2023]
- A Guide to Mexico City Street Food 2023: 41 Must-Try Street Food and Where to Find Them
- How Not to Get Sick in Mexico: 5 Tips on How to Stay Healthy
About the Author: Dani Ramos
Dani is a travel writer and blogger from Mexico City who traveled all over the world for 5 years before returning to Mexico. After visiting and living in so many different countries, she realized how lucky she is to call Mexico her home.
