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Weather Comparison

Munich vs Zurich

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Munich: 18°CZurich: 18°C242 km apart

May Weather: Munich vs Zurich

MetricMunichZurichBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer18°C (64°F)18°C (64°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder8°C (46°F)9°C (48°F)Zurich
Rain DaysFewer is drier15 days15 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier108 mm116 mmMunich
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayZurich
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer1010Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better15 km/h12 km/hZurich

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Zurich edges ahead as the better destination in May. Zurich offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 15 rain days, while Munich sees 10 sunshine hours and 15 rain days.

Munich sits in the comfortable travel range at 18°C. Zurich is also comfortable at 18°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in May

Munich reaches an average high of 18°C (64°F) and drops to 8°C (46°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Zurich averages 18°C (64°F) for the high and 9°C (48°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°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

Munich receives approximately 108 mm of rainfall across 15 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Zurich sees 116 mm over 15 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Munich vs Zurich

Packing for Munich in May

Highs of 18°C, lows of 8°C, 15 rain days

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

Packing for Zurich in May

Highs of 18°C, lows of 9°C, 15 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: Munich vs Zurich

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.

MonthMunichZurich
HighRainHighRain
Jan3°C12d5°C13d
Feb5°C10d6°C11d
Mar9°C13d10°C13d
Apr14°C12d14°C13d
May18°C15d18°C15d
Jun21°C15d22°C16d
Jul23°C15d24°C15d
Aug23°C13d23°C14d
Sep18°C12d19°C12d
Oct14°C11d15°C12d
Nov8°C11d9°C12d
Dec4°C13d5°C14d
18°

Munich Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

18°

Zurich Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Munich warmer than Zurich in May?
Munich and Zurich have the same average high temperature of 18°C (64°F) in May. The average lows are 8°C and 9°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in May, Munich or Zurich?
Both cities average 15 rain days in May with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Munich or Zurich in May?
It depends on your preferences. Munich averages 18°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 15 rain days. Zurich averages 18°C with 11 sunshine hours and 15 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Zurich. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Munich and Zurich?
Munich and Zurich are approximately 242 km (150 miles) apart. Munich is located in Germany (Europe) while Zurich is in Switzerland (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Munich and Zurich?
For Munich, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 21°C. For Zurich, July is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 24°C highs.

Compare Munich and Zurich 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.

Munich coordinates: 48.14°N, 11.58°E | Zurich coordinates: 47.38°N, 8.54°E