The Weather in Paris in May

Updated: Dezember 22, 2023
 By Christina

This post is an overview of the weather in Paris during May. We include average temperatures and how much rain or sun you might expect. 


AVERAGE TEMPERATURES IN MAY

Paris in May tends to have chilly nights and mornings with cool to comfortable afternoons and early evenings. 

A few of the colder mornings, early in the month, can dip down to a 4 C (into the upper 30s F).

The record low temperature in Paris during May was  0 C (31 F)

Average Temperatures in Paris in May

Daytime high temperatures this month tend to be 16-17 C ( in the low to mid-60s F) early in the month but warm to about 20 C (into the mid to upper 60s F) near the end of the month.

A few of the warmer afternoons reach temperatures of about 26 C (in the upper 70s).

The record high temperature recorded in Paris during May was 32 C (87 F).

Free Tours Paris

HOW MUCH RAIN IN MAY?

May is a great time to explore Paris with about 14-16 days having sunny or at least partly sunny skies.

Some rain is reported, on average, on 13 days, however, rainfalls of at least 1 mm (.04 inches) occur only on 8-9 days.

Humidity levels in May are comfortable with only 1 day, on average, near the end of the month is considered humid.  

Wind speeds during May are mostly light to moderate.

 

Weather Calendar May Paris

 

Daylight hours increase throughout this month from about 14.5 hours on the 1st to just under 16 hours by the 31st.


WHAT TO WEAR IN MAY?

May is fairly comfortable so you won't have to pack much! We've made a list of some essentials to pack below:

Disclosure: While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the full text.


1. Light Sweater or Shawl

Packing a light sweater is a good idea for those cool evenings, like this one.

Wrap-around shawls are also good for those nippy nights. Scarf/Pashmina can do double duty for style and warmth.


2. Umbrella

Since there is sure to be some rain during the month, it's best to have a small portable compact umbrella (this one fits into purses and small bags and comes in many colors!)


3. Walking Shoes

Although it's warm, you don't want to break out the flip-flops. A good pair of walking shoes is recommended.

  • For women's shoes, Sketcher's GoWalks are the most popular travel sneakers. The newest 4 series offer better soles that have great reviews for those on their feet often.
  • In men's shoes, the Merrell Range sneaker offers great quality and comfort.

WHAT TO DO IN PARIS

This section lists our suggestions for this month.

For more detail on these free things to do, family-friendly activities, and evening entertainment and events, read our full post on Things to Do in Paris in May.

TIP: When you purchase a tourist discount pass, you can see more while saving up to 55% of retail prices on the most popular attractions. 

To find details about Free Walking Tours in Paris, read our full post! 


Fred Pickhardt
Ocean Weather Services

About The Author

Christina

Christina studied art history and French literature at the Sorbonne for a year in Paris as an undergrad. Now based in Washington, DC, she visits Paris as often as possible and loves introducing family and friends to her favorite places there. She has worked as a travel writer, museum professional, English tutor, and editor, and her favorite French cheese is Pont l'Eveque.
Updated: Dezember 22nd, 2023
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