Weather Comparison
Helsinki vs Riga
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Helsinki vs Riga
| Metric | Helsinki | Riga | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 13°C (55°F) | 16°C (61°F)▲ | Riga |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 6°C (43°F) | 7°C (45°F)▲ | Riga |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 9 days▲ | 10 days | Helsinki |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 44 mm▲ | 52 mm | Helsinki |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 12h/day | 12h/day | Tie |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65% | 65% | Tie |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 10 | 10 | Tie |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 18 km/h▲ | 20 km/h | Helsinki |
Which City is Better in May?
Helsinki and Riga are closely matched in May. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.
Helsinki is on the cooler side at 13°C, requiring warmer clothing. Riga is also comfortable at 16°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Helsinki is the stronger choice in May.
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.
Riga averages 16°C (61°F) for the high and 7°C (45°F) for the low, with a daily range of 9°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
Helsinki receives approximately 44 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.
Riga sees 52 mm over 10 rain days. That makes Helsinki the drier option by 1 rain day and 8 mm of total precipitation.
Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.
What to Pack: Helsinki vs Riga
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 Riga in May
Highs of 16°C, lows of 7°C, 10 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. These items are useful in either destination during May.
Year-Round Comparison: Helsinki vs Riga
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 | Helsinki | Riga | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | -2°C | 11d | -1°C | 12d |
| Feb | -3°C | 9d | 0°C | 10d |
| Mar | 1°C | 9d | 4°C | 10d |
| Apr | 7°C | 9d | 11°C | 10d |
| May | 13°C | 9d | 16°C | 10d |
| Jun | 17°C | 12d | 20°C | 11d |
| Jul | 21°C | 12d | 22°C | 12d |
| Aug | 20°C | 12d | 22°C | 13d |
| Sep | 15°C | 10d | 17°C | 11d |
| Oct | 8°C | 12d | 10°C | 14d |
| Nov | 3°C | 12d | 4°C | 13d |
| Dec | 0°C | 12d | 1°C | 12d |
Helsinki Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Riga Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities