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Weather Comparison

Zurich vs Munich

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Zurich: 18°CMunich: 18°C242 km apart

May Weather: Zurich vs Munich

MetricZurichMunichBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer18°C (64°F)18°C (64°F)Tie
Average LowHigher is milder9°C (48°F)8°C (46°F)Zurich
Rain DaysFewer is drier15 days15 daysTie
PrecipitationLess is drier116 mm108 mmMunich
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day10h/dayZurich
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer1010Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better12 km/h15 km/hZurich

Which City is Better in May?

Based on sunshine hours, rain days, comfortable temperatures, and humidity levels, Zurich edges ahead as the better destination in May. Zurich offers 11 hours of daily sunshine with only 15 rain days, while Munich sees 10 sunshine hours and 15 rain days.

Zurich sits in the comfortable travel range at 18°C. Munich is also comfortable at 18°C.

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

Temperature Comparison in May

Zurich reaches an average high of 18°C (64°F) and drops to 9°C (48°F) at night during May. The daily temperature range is 9°C, meaning moderate variation throughout the day.

Munich averages 18°C (64°F) for the high and 8°C (46°F) for the low, with a daily range of 10°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

Zurich receives approximately 116 mm of rainfall across 15 rain days during May. Rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.

Munich sees 108 mm over 15 rain days. Both cities are equally rainy this month.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Zurich vs Munich

Packing for Zurich in May

Highs of 18°C, lows of 9°C, 15 rain days

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

Packing for Munich in May

Highs of 18°C, lows of 8°C, 15 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: Zurich vs Munich

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.

MonthZurichMunich
HighRainHighRain
Jan5°C13d3°C12d
Feb6°C11d5°C10d
Mar10°C13d9°C13d
Apr14°C13d14°C12d
May18°C15d18°C15d
Jun22°C16d21°C15d
Jul24°C15d23°C15d
Aug23°C14d23°C13d
Sep19°C12d18°C12d
Oct15°C12d14°C11d
Nov9°C12d8°C11d
Dec5°C14d4°C13d
18°

Zurich Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

18°

Munich Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zurich warmer than Munich in May?
Zurich and Munich have the same average high temperature of 18°C (64°F) in May. The average lows are 9°C and 8°C respectively.
Which city gets more rain in May, Zurich or Munich?
Both cities average 15 rain days in May with similar precipitation levels.
Is it better to visit Zurich or Munich in May?
It depends on your preferences. Zurich averages 18°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 15 rain days. Munich averages 18°C with 10 sunshine hours and 15 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Munich. For fewer rain days, both are equal.
How far apart are Zurich and Munich?
Zurich and Munich are approximately 242 km (150 miles) apart. Zurich is located in Switzerland (Europe) while Munich is in Germany (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Zurich and Munich?
For Zurich, July tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 24°C. For Munich, June is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 21°C highs.

Compare Zurich and Munich 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.

Zurich coordinates: 47.38°N, 8.54°E | Munich coordinates: 48.14°N, 11.58°E