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Weather Comparison

Helsinki vs Stockholm

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Helsinki: 13°CStockholm: 14°C396 km apart

May Weather: Helsinki vs Stockholm

MetricHelsinkiStockholmBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer13°C (55°F)14°C (57°F)Stockholm
Average LowHigher is milder6°C (43°F)6°C (43°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier9 days9 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier44 mm43 mmStockholm
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier12h/day13h/dayStockholm
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer1010Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h17 km/hStockholm

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Stockholm edges ahead as the better destination in May. Stockholm offers 13 hours of daily sunshine with only 9 rain days, while Helsinki sees 12 sunshine hours and 9 rain days.

Helsinki is on the cooler side at 13°C, requiring warmer clothing. Stockholm is cooler at 14°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in May

Helsinki reaches an average high of 13°C (55°F) and drops to 6°C (43°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Stockholm averages 14°C (57°F) for the high and 6°C (43°F) for the low, with a daily range of 8°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

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

Rainfall Comparison in May

Helsinki receives approximately 44 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Stockholm sees 43 mm over 9 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Helsinki vs Stockholm

Packing for Helsinki in May

Highs of 13°C, lows of 6°C, 9 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

Packing for Stockholm in May

Highs of 14°C, lows of 6°C, 9 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

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

Year-Round Comparison: Helsinki vs Stockholm

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.

MonthHelsinkiStockholm
HighRainHighRain
Jan-2°C11d0°C8d
Feb-3°C9d1°C8d
Mar1°C9d4°C8d
Apr7°C9d9°C8d
May13°C9d14°C9d
Jun17°C12d18°C11d
Jul21°C12d21°C11d
Aug20°C12d20°C12d
Sep15°C10d16°C8d
Oct8°C12d9°C10d
Nov3°C12d5°C10d
Dec0°C12d2°C10d
13°

Helsinki Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

14°

Stockholm Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Helsinki warmer than Stockholm in May?
No. In May, Stockholm is warmer with an average high of 14°C (57°F) compared to Helsinki at 13°C (55°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Helsinki or Stockholm?
Both cities average 9 rain days in May with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Helsinki or Stockholm in May?
It depends on your preferences. Helsinki averages 13°C and 12 hours of daily sunshine with 9 rain days. Stockholm averages 14°C with 13 sunshine hours and 9 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Stockholm. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Helsinki and Stockholm?
Helsinki and Stockholm are approximately 396 km (246 miles) apart. Helsinki is located in Finland (Europe) while Stockholm is in Sweden (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Helsinki and Stockholm?
For Helsinki, June tends to be the best month with 13 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 17°C. For Stockholm, June is typically ideal with 14 sunshine hours and 18°C highs.

Compare Helsinki and Stockholm 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.

Helsinki coordinates: 60.17°N, 24.94°E | Stockholm coordinates: 59.33°N, 18.07°E