Weather Comparison
Paris vs Amsterdam
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Paris vs Amsterdam
| Metric | Paris | Amsterdam | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 19°C (66°F)▲ | 16°C (61°F) | Paris |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 9°C (48°F) | 9°C (48°F) | Tie |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 11 days | 11 days | Tie |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 65 mm | 63 mm▲ | Amsterdam |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 10h/day | 11h/day▲ | Amsterdam |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 10 | 10 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 18 km/h▲ | 20 km/h | Paris |
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.
Paris sits in the comfortable travel range at 19°C. Amsterdam is also comfortable at 16°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
Paris reaches an average high of 19°C (66°F) and drops to 9°C (48°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.
Amsterdam averages 16°C (61°F) for the high and 9°C (48°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°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
Paris receives approximately 65 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.
Amsterdam sees 63 mm over 11 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.
What to Pack: Paris vs Amsterdam
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
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
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: Paris vs Amsterdam
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.
| Month | Paris | Amsterdam | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 7°C | 12d | 6°C | 13d |
| Feb | 8°C | 10d | 6°C | 11d |
| Mar | 12°C | 11d | 9°C | 11d |
| Apr | 15°C | 11d | 13°C | 11d |
| May | 19°C | 11d | 16°C | 11d |
| Jun | 22°C | 10d | 19°C | 12d |
| Jul | 24°C | 10d | 21°C | 14d |
| Aug | 24°C | 9d | 21°C | 13d |
| Sep | 21°C | 8d | 18°C | 12d |
| Oct | 16°C | 11d | 14°C | 13d |
| Nov | 11°C | 11d | 10°C | 13d |
| Dec | 7°C | 12d | 6°C | 13d |
Paris Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Amsterdam Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities