Weather Comparison
Istanbul vs Bali
Side-by-side weather comparison for May
May Weather: Istanbul vs Bali
| Metric | Istanbul | Bali | Better |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average HighHigher is warmer | 20°C (68°F) | 28°C (82°F)▲ | Bali |
| Average LowHigher is milder | 13°C (55°F) | 25°C (77°F)▲ | Bali |
| Rain DaysFewer is drier | 6 days▲ | 18 days | Istanbul |
| PrecipitationLess is drier | 37 mm▲ | 109 mm | Istanbul |
| Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier | 12h/day▲ | 11h/day | Istanbul |
| HumidityLower is more comfortable | 65%▲ | 82% | Istanbul |
| UV IndexLower is safer | 9 | 3▲ | Bali |
| Wind SpeedCalmer is better | 18 km/h | 13 km/h▲ | Bali |
Which City is Better in May?
Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Istanbul edges ahead as the better destination in May. Istanbul offers 12 hours of daily sunshine with only 6 rain days, while Bali sees 11 sunshine hours and 18 rain days.
Istanbul sits in the comfortable travel range at 20°C. Bali is also comfortable at 28°C.
For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Istanbul is the stronger choice in May. Istanbul receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Temperature Comparison in May
Istanbul reaches an average high of 20°C (68°F) and drops to 13°C (55°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 7°C, meaning relatively stable temperatures from day to night.
Bali averages 28°C (82°F) for the high and 25°C (77°F) for the low, with a daily range of 3°C. There is a notable 8°C gap between the two cities, so expect a very different feel.
Istanbul is in the Northern Hemisphere while Bali is in the Southern Hemisphere. This means they experience opposite seasons, which explains any large temperature difference.
Rainfall Comparison in May
Istanbul receives approximately 37 mm of rainfall across 6 rain days during May. Rain is occasional, so a light rain jacket should suffice.
Bali sees 109 mm over 18 rain days. That makes Istanbul the drier option by 12 rain days and 72 mm of total precipitation.
Humidity also differs: Istanbul averages 65% while Bali sits at 82%. Bali will feel muggier, especially at higher temperatures.
What to Pack: Istanbul vs Bali
Packing for Istanbul in May
Highs of 20°C, lows of 13°C, 6 rain days
- ✓light layers
- ✓a light jacket for evenings
- ✓sunscreen
- ✓a packable rain jacket
- ✓an umbrella
Packing for Bali in May
Highs of 28°C, lows of 25°C, 18 rain days
- ✓lightweight breathable clothing
- ✓sunscreen SPF 50+
- ✓sunglasses
- ✓a wide-brimmed hat
- ✓waterproof jacket
- ✓compact umbrella
- ✓waterproof shoes
- ✓moisture-wicking fabrics
Year-Round Comparison: Istanbul vs Bali
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 | Istanbul | Bali | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High | Rain | High | Rain | |
| Jan | 8°C | 13d | 28°C | 29d |
| Feb | 9°C | 12d | 28°C | 27d |
| Mar | 11°C | 11d | 28°C | 28d |
| Apr | 15°C | 8d | 28°C | 24d |
| May | 20°C | 6d | 28°C | 18d |
| Jun | 25°C | 6d | 27°C | 14d |
| Jul | 28°C | 4d | 26°C | 12d |
| Aug | 28°C | 3d | 26°C | 10d |
| Sep | 24°C | 7d | 27°C | 11d |
| Oct | 19°C | 9d | 28°C | 17d |
| Nov | 14°C | 10d | 28°C | 23d |
| Dec | 10°C | 13d | 28°C | 28d |
Istanbul Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities
Bali Weather in May
Full forecast, packing tips, and activities