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Weather Comparison

Edinburgh vs Dublin

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Edinburgh: 13°CDublin: 15°C350 km apart

May Weather: Edinburgh vs Dublin

MetricEdinburghDublinBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer13°C (55°F)15°C (59°F)Dublin
Average LowHigher is milder7°C (45°F)8°C (46°F)Dublin
Rain DaysFewer is drier13 days14 daysEdinburgh
PrecipitationLess is drier57 mm67 mmEdinburgh
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/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.

Edinburgh is on the cooler side at 13°C, requiring warmer clothing. Dublin is also comfortable at 15°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

Edinburgh reaches an average high of 13°C (55°F) and drops to 7°C (45°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 6°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.

Dublin averages 15°C (59°F) for the high and 8°C (46°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°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

Edinburgh receives approximately 57 mm of rainfall across 13 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Dublin sees 67 mm over 14 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: Edinburgh vs Dublin

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

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

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: Edinburgh vs Dublin

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.

MonthEdinburghDublin
HighRainHighRain
Jan6°C14d8°C13d
Feb6°C12d8°C12d
Mar8°C13d10°C12d
Apr10°C12d12°C14d
May13°C13d15°C14d
Jun16°C14d17°C13d
Jul18°C14d19°C15d
Aug17°C13d19°C14d
Sep15°C11d17°C12d
Oct12°C13d13°C12d
Nov8°C14d10°C13d
Dec6°C14d8°C13d
13°

Edinburgh Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

15°

Dublin Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Edinburgh warmer than Dublin in May?
No. 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, Edinburgh or Dublin?
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 Edinburgh or Dublin in May?
It depends on your preferences. Edinburgh averages 13°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 13 rain days. Dublin averages 15°C with 11 sunshine hours and 14 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Dublin. For drier weather, Edinburgh is the better pick.
How far apart are Edinburgh and Dublin?
Edinburgh and Dublin are approximately 350 km (217 miles) apart. Edinburgh is located in United Kingdom (Europe) while Dublin is in Ireland (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Edinburgh and Dublin?
For Edinburgh, May tends to be the best month with 10 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 13°C. For Dublin, June is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 17°C highs.

Compare Edinburgh and Dublin 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.

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