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Weather Comparison

Dublin vs Edinburgh

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Dublin: 15°CEdinburgh: 13°C350 km apart

May Weather: Dublin vs Edinburgh

MetricDublinEdinburghBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer15°C (59°F)13°C (55°F)Dublin
Average LowHigher is milder8°C (46°F)7°C (45°F)Dublin
Rain DaysFewer is drier14 days13 daysEdinburgh
PrecipitationLess is drier67 mm57 mmEdinburgh
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day10h/dayDublin
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer1010Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better21 km/h21 km/hTie

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Dublin edges ahead as the better destination in May. Dublin offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 14 rain days, while Edinburgh sees 10 sunshine hours and 13 rain days.

Dublin sits in the comfortable travel range at 15°C. Edinburgh is cooler at 13°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in May

Dublin reaches an average high of 15°C (59°F) and drops to 8°C (46°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Edinburgh averages 13°C (55°F) for the high and 7°C (45°F) for the low, with a daily range of 6°C. The 2°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

Dublin receives approximately 67 mm of rainfall across 14 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Edinburgh sees 57 mm over 13 rain days. That makes Edinburgh the drier option by 1 rain day and 10 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Dublin vs Edinburgh

Packing for Dublin in May

Highs of 15°C, lows of 8°C, 14 rain days

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

Packing for Edinburgh in May

Highs of 13°C, lows of 7°C, 13 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: Dublin vs Edinburgh

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.

MonthDublinEdinburgh
HighRainHighRain
Jan8°C13d6°C14d
Feb8°C12d6°C12d
Mar10°C12d8°C13d
Apr12°C14d10°C12d
May15°C14d13°C13d
Jun17°C13d16°C14d
Jul19°C15d18°C14d
Aug19°C14d17°C13d
Sep17°C12d15°C11d
Oct13°C12d12°C13d
Nov10°C13d8°C14d
Dec8°C13d6°C14d
15°

Dublin Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

13°

Edinburgh Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dublin warmer than Edinburgh in May?
Yes. In May, Dublin is warmer with an average high of 15°C (59°F) compared to Edinburgh at 13°C (55°F), a difference of 2°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Dublin or Edinburgh?
Dublin gets more rain in May with 14 rain days and 67 mm of precipitation. Edinburgh is the drier option with 13 rain days.
Is it better to visit Dublin or Edinburgh in May?
It depends on your preferences. Dublin averages 15°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 14 rain days. Edinburgh averages 13°C with 10 sunshine hours and 13 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Dublin. For fewer rain days, Edinburgh is the better pick.
How far apart are Dublin and Edinburgh?
Dublin and Edinburgh are approximately 350 km (217 miles) apart. Dublin is located in Ireland (Europe) while Edinburgh is in United Kingdom (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Dublin and Edinburgh?
For Dublin, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 17°C. For Edinburgh, May is typically ideal with 10 sunshine hours and 13°C highs.

Compare Dublin and Edinburgh 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.

Dublin coordinates: 53.35°N, -6.26°E | Edinburgh coordinates: 55.95°N, -3.19°E