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Weather Comparison

Zurich vs Paris

Side-by-side weather comparison for May

Zurich: 18°CParis: 19°C488 km apart

May Weather: Zurich vs Paris

MetricZurichParisBetter
Average HighHigher is warmer18°C (64°F)19°C (66°F)Paris
Average LowHigher is milder9°C (48°F)9°C (48°F)Tie
Rain DaysFewer is drier15 days11 daysParis
PrecipitationLess is drier116 mm65 mmParis
Sunshine HoursMore is sunnier11h/day10h/dayZurich
HumidityLower is more comfortable65%65%Tie
UV IndexLower is safer1010Tie
Wind SpeedCalmer is better12 km/h18 km/hZurich

Which City is Better in May?

Zurich and Paris are closely matched in May. Neither city has a clear advantage across all metrics. Your decision should come down to personal preference, cultural interests, and travel logistics rather than weather alone.

Zurich sits in the comfortable travel range at 18°C. Paris is also comfortable at 19°C.

For travelers who prioritize dry weather, Paris is the stronger choice 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.

Paris averages 19°C (66°F) for the high and 9°C (48°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.

Paris sees 65 mm over 11 rain days. That makes Paris the drier option by 4 rain days and 51 mm of total precipitation.

Both cities share similar humidity levels at 65%.

What to Pack: Zurich vs Paris

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 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

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 Paris

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.

MonthZurichParis
HighRainHighRain
Jan5°C13d7°C12d
Feb6°C11d8°C10d
Mar10°C13d12°C11d
Apr14°C13d15°C11d
May18°C15d19°C11d
Jun22°C16d22°C10d
Jul24°C15d24°C10d
Aug23°C14d24°C9d
Sep19°C12d21°C8d
Oct15°C12d16°C11d
Nov9°C12d11°C11d
Dec5°C14d7°C12d
18°

Zurich Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

19°

Paris Weather in May

Full forecast, packing tips, and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zurich warmer than Paris in May?
No. In May, Paris is warmer with an average high of 19°C (66°F) compared to Zurich at 18°C (64°F), a difference of 1°C.
Which city gets more rain in May, Zurich or Paris?
Zurich gets more rain in May with 15 rain days and 116 mm of precipitation. Paris is the drier option with 11 rain days.
Is it better to visit Zurich or Paris in May?
It depends on your preferences. Zurich averages 18°C and 11 hours of daily sunshine with 15 rain days. Paris averages 19°C with 10 sunshine hours and 11 rain days. If you prefer cooler conditions, choose Paris. For fewer rain days, Paris is the better pick.
How far apart are Zurich and Paris?
Zurich and Paris are approximately 488 km (303 miles) apart. Zurich is located in Switzerland (Europe) while Paris is in France (Europe).
What is the best month to visit Zurich and Paris?
For Zurich, July tends to be the best month with 12 hours of daily sunshine and a high of 24°C. For Paris, August is typically ideal with 11 sunshine hours and 24°C highs.

Compare Zurich and Paris 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 | Paris coordinates: 48.86°N, 2.35°E