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Weather Comparison

Istanbul vs Bali

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Istanbul: 20°CBali: 28°C10,325 km apart

May Weather: Istanbul vs Bali

MetricIstanbulBaliBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer20°C (68°F)28°C (82°F)Bali
Average LowHigher is milder13°C (55°F)25°C (77°F)Bali
Rain DaysFewer is drier6 days18 daysIstanbul
PrecipitationLess is drier37 mm109 mmIstanbul
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier12h/day11h/dayIstanbul
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%82%Istanbul
UV IndexLower is safer93Bali
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h13 km/hBali

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.

MonthIstanbulBali
HighRainHighRain
Jan8°C13d28°C29d
Feb9°C12d28°C27d
Mar11°C11d28°C28d
Apr15°C8d28°C24d
May20°C6d28°C18d
Jun25°C6d27°C14d
Jul28°C4d26°C12d
Aug28°C3d26°C10d
Sep24°C7d27°C11d
Oct19°C9d28°C17d
Nov14°C10d28°C23d
Dec10°C13d28°C28d
20°

Istanbul Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

28°

Bali Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Istanbul warmer than Bali in May?
No. In May, Bali is warmer with an average high of 28°C (82°F) compared to Istanbul at 20°C (68°F), a difference of 8°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Istanbul or Bali?
Bali gets more rain in May with 18 rain days and 109 mm of precipitation. Istanbul is the drier option with 6 rain days.
Is it better to visit Istanbul or Bali in May?
It depends on your preferences. Istanbul averages 20°C and 12 hours of daily sunshine with 6 rain days. Bali averages 28°C with 11 sunshine hours and 18 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Bali. For drier weather, Istanbul is the better pick.
How far apart are Istanbul and Bali?
Istanbul and Bali are approximately 10,325 km (6,412 miles) apart. Istanbul is located in Turkey (Europe) while Bali is in Indonesia (Asia).
What is the best month to visit Istanbul and Bali?
For Istanbul, July tends to be the best month with 14 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 28°C. For Bali, August is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 26°C highs.

Compare Istanbul and Bali 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.

Istanbul coordinates: 41.01°N, 28.98°E | Bali coordinates: -8.65°N, 115.22°E