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Weather Comparison

Stockholm vs Helsinki

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Stockholm: 14°CHelsinki: 13°C396 km apart

May Weather: Stockholm vs Helsinki

MetricStockholmHelsinkiBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer14°C (57°F)13°C (55°F)Stockholm
Average LowHigher is milder6°C (43°F)6°C (43°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier9 days9 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier43 mm44 mmStockholm
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier13h/day12h/dayStockholm
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer1010Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better17 km/h18 km/hStockholm

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Stockholm edges ahead as the better destination in May. Stockholm offers 13 hours of daily sunshine with only 9 rain days, while Helsinki sees 12 sunshine hours and 9 rain days.

Stockholm is on the cooler side at 14°C, requiring warmer clothing. Helsinki is cooler at 13°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in May

Stockholm reaches an average high of 14°C (57°F) and drops to 6°C (43°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 8°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Helsinki averages 13°C (55°F) for the high and 6°C (43°F) for the low, with a daily range of 7°C. The two cities feel quite similar in terms of temperature.

Both cities are in the Northern Hemisphere, so they share the same seasonal pattern in May.

Rainfall Comparison in May

Stockholm receives approximately 43 mm of rainfall across 9 rain days during May. You can expect rain roughly every other day.

Helsinki sees 44 mm over 9 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Stockholm vs Helsinki

Packing for Stockholm in May

Highs of 14°C, lows of 6°C, 9 rain days

  • warm layers
  • a mid-weight jacket
  • long trousers
  • a packable rain jacket
  • an umbrella

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

Pack for both: warm layers, a mid-weight jacket, long trousers, a packable rain jacket, an umbrella. These items are useful in either destination during May.

Year-Round Comparison: Stockholm vs Helsinki

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.

MonthStockholmHelsinki
HighRainHighRain
Jan0°C8d-2°C11d
Feb1°C8d-3°C9d
Mar4°C8d1°C9d
Apr9°C8d7°C9d
May14°C9d13°C9d
Jun18°C11d17°C12d
Jul21°C11d21°C12d
Aug20°C12d20°C12d
Sep16°C8d15°C10d
Oct9°C10d8°C12d
Nov5°C10d3°C12d
Dec2°C10d0°C12d
14°

Stockholm Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

13°

Helsinki Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Stockholm warmer than Helsinki in May?
Yes. In May, Stockholm is warmer with an average high of 14°C (57°F) compared to Helsinki at 13°C (55°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Stockholm or Helsinki?
Both cities average 9 rain days in May with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Stockholm or Helsinki in May?
It depends on your preferences. Stockholm averages 14°C and 13 hours of daily sunshine with 9 rain days. Helsinki averages 13°C with 12 sunshine hours and 9 rain days. If you prefer warmer weather, choose Stockholm. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Stockholm and Helsinki?
Stockholm and Helsinki are approximately 396 km (246 miles) apart. Stockholm is located in Sweden (Europe) while Helsinki is in Finland (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Stockholm and Helsinki?
For Stockholm, June tends to be the best month with 14 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 18°C. For Helsinki, June is typically ideal with 13 sunshine hours and 17°C highs.

Compare Stockholm and Helsinki 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.

Stockholm coordinates: 59.33°N, 18.07°E | Helsinki coordinates: 60.17°N, 24.94°E