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Weather Comparison

Paris vs Amsterdam

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Paris: 19°CAmsterdam: 16°C430 km apart

May Weather: Paris vs Amsterdam

MetricParisAmsterdamBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer19°C (66°F)16°C (61°F)Paris
Average LowHigher is milder9°C (48°F)9°C (48°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier11 days11 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier65 mm63 mmAmsterdam
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier10h/day11h/dayAmsterdam
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer1010Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better18 km/h20 km/hParis

Which City is Better in May?

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

Paris sits in the comfortable travel range at 19°C. Amsterdam is also comfortable at 16°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, both cities are equally dry in May. Amsterdam receives 1 more hour of sunshine per day, which matters for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Temperature Comparison in May

Paris reaches an average high of 19°C (66°F) and drops to 9°C (48°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 10°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Amsterdam averages 16°C (61°F) for the high and 9°C (48°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°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

Paris receives approximately 65 mm of rainfall across 11 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Amsterdam sees 63 mm over 11 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Paris vs Amsterdam

Packing for Paris in May

Highs of 19°C, lows of 9°C, 11 rain days

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

Packing for Amsterdam in May

Highs of 16°C, lows of 9°C, 11 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: Paris vs Amsterdam

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.

MonthParisAmsterdam
HighRainHighRain
Jan7°C12d6°C13d
Feb8°C10d6°C11d
Mar12°C11d9°C11d
Apr15°C11d13°C11d
May19°C11d16°C11d
Jun22°C10d19°C12d
Jul24°C10d21°C14d
Aug24°C9d21°C13d
Sep21°C8d18°C12d
Oct16°C11d14°C13d
Nov11°C11d10°C13d
Dec7°C12d6°C13d
19°

Paris Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

16°

Amsterdam Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Paris warmer than Amsterdam in May?
Yes. In May, Paris is warmer with an average high of 19°C (66°F) compared to Amsterdam at 16°C (61°F), a difference of 3°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Paris or Amsterdam?
Both cities average 11 rain days in May with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Paris or Amsterdam in May?
It depends on your preferences. Paris averages 19°C and 10 hours of daily sunshine with 11 rain days. Amsterdam averages 16°C with 11 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Paris. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Paris and Amsterdam?
Paris and Amsterdam are approximately 430 km (267 miles) apart. Paris is located in France (Europe) while Amsterdam is in Netherlands (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Paris and Amsterdam?
For Paris, June tends to be the best month with 11 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 22°C. For Amsterdam, July is typically ideal with 12 sunshine hours and 21°C highs.

Compare Paris and Amsterdam 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.

Paris coordinates: 48.86°N, 2.35°E | Amsterdam coordinates: 52.37°N, 4.90°E