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Weather Comparison

Amsterdam vs Paris

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Amsterdam: 16°CParis: 19°C430 km apart

May Weather: Amsterdam vs Paris

MetricAmsterdamParisBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer16°C (61°F)19°C (66°F)Paris
Average LowHigher is milder9°C (48°F)9°C (48°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days11 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier63 mm65 mmAmsterdam
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day10h/dayAmsterdam
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer1010Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better20 km/h18 km/hParis

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Amsterdam edges ahead as the better destination in May. Amsterdam offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 11 rain days, while Paris sees 10 sunshine hours and 11 rain days.

Amsterdam sits in the comfortable travel range at 16°C. Paris is also comfortable at 19°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May. Amsterdam receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Amsterdam reaches an average high of 16°C (61°F) and drops to 9°C (48°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Paris averages 19°C (66°F) for the high and 9°C (48°F) for the low, with a daily range of 10°C. The 3°C difference is noticeable but not dramatic.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Amsterdam receives approximately 63 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Paris sees 65 mm over 11 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Amsterdam vs Paris

Packing for Amsterdam in May

Highs of 16°C, lows of 9°C, 11 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Packing for Paris in May

Highs of 19°C, lows of 9°C, 11 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes

Pack for both: warm layers, a mid-weight jacket, long trousers, waterproof jacket, compact umbrella, waterproof shoes. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Amsterdam vs Paris

The table below shows average high temperatures and rain days for every month of the year, helping you find the best time to visit either city.May is highlighted for quick reference.

MonthAmsterdamParis
HighRainHighRain
Jan6°C13d7°C12d
Feb6°C11d8°C10d
Mar9°C11d12°C11d
Apr13°C11d15°C11d
May16°C11d19°C11d
Jun19°C12d22°C10d
Jul21°C14d24°C10d
Aug21°C13d24°C9d
Sep18°C12d21°C8d
Oct14°C13d16°C11d
Nov10°C13d11°C11d
Dec6°C13d7°C12d
16°

Amsterdam Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

19°

Paris Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Amsterdam warmer than Paris in May?
No. In May, Paris is warmer with an average high of 19°C (66°F) compared to Amsterdam at 16°C (61°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Amsterdam or Paris?
Both cities average 11 rain days in May with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Amsterdam or Paris in May?
It depends on your preferences. Amsterdam averages 16°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. Paris averages 19°C with 10 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Paris. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Amsterdam and Paris?
Amsterdam and Paris are approximately 430 km (267 miles) apart. Amsterdam is located in Netherlands (Europe) while Paris is in France (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Amsterdam and Paris?
For Amsterdam, July tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 21°C. For Paris, June is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 22°C highs.

Compare Amsterdam and Paris in Other Months

Climate data sourced from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, using ERA5 reanalysis data covering 30-year normals from 1991 to 2020. All temperatures shown in Celsius with Fahrenheit equivalents. Rain days count days with 1 mm or more of precipitation. Sunshine hours represent average daily values. This comparison is generated from long-term climate averages and individual trips may vary.

Amsterdam coordinates: 52.37°N, 4.90°E | Paris coordinates: 48.86°N, 2.35°E