This post is about the weather in Berlin in May, including average temperatures, precipitation, and tips on packing and sightseeing activities.
HOW COLD IS BERLIN IN MAY?
Berlin in May can be very pleasant with generally mild spring-like weather prevailing.
During early May, morning temperatures will tend to be 6-8 C (mid-40s F) with afternoon highs of 18-20C (mid-60s F). A couple of the cooler mornings can dip down to 3-5C (40F).
By the end of May, morning temperatures will more likely be 11-13C (low to mid-50s F) while afternoon highs will usually reach 21-23C (lower 70s F) with a few days possibly reaching up to 26-28C (into the lower 80s F).
HOW MUCH SUN OR RAIN?
Daylight becomes noticeably longer this month, increasing from about 15 hours around May 1st to nearly 16.5 hours by the 31st.
You can usually expect about 8-9 days with clear or at least partly sunny skies.
About 14-15 days will see some rain. Thunderstorms can also occur this month, reporting about 3 days on average.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
Berlin has a good amount of rain in May, so keep that in mind as you pack. We've made a list below of what to bring:
1. Rain Jacket
With about half the days in May expecting rain, it's a good idea to bright a light rain jacket. Something like this one by EZRUN packs easily and will also keep you dry and warm on chilly or wet days. An umbrella is also suggested.
2. Sweater
The best way to make sure you're comfortable is to pack a sweater for layering on for cooler mornings. A simple pull-on is enough, like this one by LTIFONE go great over comfortable cotton tops.
3. Good Shoes
As the weather gets comfortable, expect to spend a lot of your days outside enjoying the weather. Packing comfortable walking shoes is essential. We like these by Saucony, which are great for long walking tours of Berlin.
WHAT TO DO IN BERLIN IN MAY
There are a number of great things to do in Berlin year-round, including visiting the city's many museums, touring the Reichstag, walking through the Holocaust Memorial, and seeing remnants of the Berlin Wall and Berlin’s famous street art.
This section lists our suggestions for things to do in Berlin this month.
For more detail on these free things to do, family-friendly activities, and evening entertainment and events, read our full post for the best things to do in Berlin.
TIP: When you purchase a tourist discount pass, you can see more while saving money on the most popular attractions. Some city passes will give up to 55% discounts!
- Celebrate the Carnival of Cultures.
- See Madam Butterfly.
- Attend the Pitchfork Music Festival.
- Take a Free Walking Tour.
Find more detail for these top things to do in our full Berlin in May post.
Fred Pickhardt
Ocean Weather Services
