Skip to content

Weather Comparison

Bali vs Istanbul

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Bali: 28°CIstanbul: 20°C10,325 km apart

May Weather: Bali vs Istanbul

MetricBaliIstanbulBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer28°C (82°F)20°C (68°F)Bali
Average LowHigher is milder25°C (77°F)13°C (55°F)Bali
Rain DaysFewer is drier18 days6 daysIstanbul
PrecipitationLess is drier109 mm37 mmIstanbul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day12h/dayIstanbul
HumidityLower is more comfortable82%65%Istanbul
UV IndexLower is safer39Bali
Wind SpeedCalmer is better13 km/h18 km/hBali

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Istanbul edges ahead as the better destination in May. Istanbul offers 12 hours of daily sunshine with only 6 rain days, while Bali sees 11 sunshine hours and 18 rain days.

Bali sits in the comfortable travel range at 28°C. Istanbul is also comfortable at 20°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Istanbul is the stronger choice in May. Istanbul receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Bali reaches an average high of 28°C (82°F) and drops to 25°C (77°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 3°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Istanbul averages 20°C (68°F) for the high and 13°C (55°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. There is a notable 8°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.

Bali is in the Southern Hemisphere while Istanbul is in the Northern Hemisphere. This means they experience opposite seasons, which explains any large temperature difference.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Bali receives approximately 109 mm of rainfall across 18 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Istanbul sees 37 mm over 6 rain days. That makes Istanbul the drier option by 12 rain days and 72 mm of total precipitation.

Humidity also differs: Bali averages 82% while Istanbul sits at 65%. Bali will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.

What to Pack: Bali vs Istanbul

Packing for Bali in May

Highs of 28°C, lows of 25°C, 18 rain days

  • lightweight breathable clothing
  • sunscreen SPF 50+
  • sunglasses
  • a wide-brimmed hat
  • waterproof jacket
  • compact umbrella
  • waterproof shoes
  • moisture-wicking fabrics

Packing for Istanbul in May

Highs of 20°C, lows of 13°C, 6 rain days

  • light layers
  • a light jacket for evenings
  • sunscreen
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

Year-Round Comparison: Bali vs Istanbul

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.

MonthBaliIstanbul
HighRainHighRain
Jan28°C29d8°C13d
Feb28°C27d9°C12d
Mar28°C28d11°C11d
Apr28°C24d15°C8d
May28°C18d20°C6d
Jun27°C14d25°C6d
Jul26°C12d28°C4d
Aug26°C10d28°C3d
Sep27°C11d24°C7d
Oct28°C17d19°C9d
Nov28°C23d14°C10d
Dec28°C28d10°C13d
28°

Bali Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

20°

Istanbul Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bali warmer than Istanbul in May?
Yes. In May, Bali is warmer with an average high of 28°C (82°F) compared to Istanbul at 20°C (68°F), a difference of 8°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Bali or Istanbul?
Bali gets more rain in May with 18 rain days and 109 mm of precipitation. Istanbul is the drier option with 6 rain days.
Is it better to visit Bali or Istanbul in May?
It depends on your preferences. Bali averages 28°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 18 rain days. Istanbul averages 20°C with 12 sunshine hours and 6 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Bali. For fewer rain days, Istanbul is the better pick.
How far apart are Bali and Istanbul?
Bali and Istanbul are approximately 10,325 km (6,412 miles) apart. Bali is located in Indonesia (Asia) while Istanbul is in Turkey (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Bali and Istanbul?
For Bali, August tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 26°C. For Istanbul, July is typically ideal with 14 sunshine hours and 28°C highs.

Compare Bali and Istanbul 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.

Bali coordinates: -8.65°N, 115.22°E | Istanbul coordinates: 41.01°N, 28.98°E