Germany in May

Visiting Germany and its fascinating cities, historic highlights, as well as the countryside in the month of May has many advantages. However, there are still some things you should be aware of and need to consider before traveling here during this month.

In contrast to April, the weather in May is more predictable and there is a lot to discover during this month. Both in the major cities like Munich, Hamburg, Dresden, Frankfurt, or Cologne, but also outdoors in our gorgeous forests, parks, and mountains.

I was born and raised in Germany, have lived here for over 40 years, and visited almost every city during the spring months. With this kind of experience, I know May inside out and can give you the best tips for this great travel month.

This article covers:

• Nature and Landscape
• Weather in May | Cities
• Crowds and Rate
• Outfits and Packing Tips
• Best Things to Do | Cities

💡 If you are visiting outside May, then the ‘Best Things to Do’ section at the end of this article is still helpful for you!

Best Guidebooks

My personal tips and experience will help you make your stay even better.

Is May a Good Time to Visit?

After a winter with relatively cold temps and an unpredictable April, we Germans are always looking forward to the month of May. We love that there will be less rain than in April, more sunshine, warmer days, a lot of public holidays, many festivals, and blooming flowers.

May is a very good time to visit Germany, as the weather is warming up to summer-like temperatures toward the end of the month without being too hot. Moreover, the major attractions are less busy as the summer tourist crowds haven’t arrived yet.

For me, May is an outstanding time to visit every region in Germany. The weather is warm enough and there is usually not a lot of rain. Most of the time you can enjoy walking around in light clothes and discovering everything.

Additionally, the German landscape, especially its beautiful forests will be vibrant and filled with green and other colors.

Nature and Landscape

Trees are typically fully leafed out during May in Germany and you will notice the lush green foliage everywhere. Gardens and parks throughout the country are filled with the color of numerous spring flowers.

The bright colors of all the flowers coupled with the lush green of the grass and trees and the gentle greenery of new leaves on trees and bushes create a picturesque scene.

You don’t have to go hiking in the woods to see those wonderful spring colors in Germany. We have beautiful and large parks, green spaces, and gardens in every city that bring the captivating spring nature to the urban environment.

Weather Overview

In Germany, the weather during May is mainly pleasant with average high temperatures ranging from 60°F to 69°F (15-21°C) in most regions. While it gets quite warm at the end of the month, it’s significantly cooler at night, especially in early May. The average rainfall is 1.3 to 4.0 inches (34-103mm).

Night temps: At night, in particular, within the first week of May, temperatures can even drop to freezing. This can cause the mornings sometimes to be a little chillier.

North vs. South: Depending on the city and area you are traveling to, the weather conditions may change a little. For example, in May it’s typically slightly cooler in Hamburg than in the central region where Frankfurt and Cologne are located.

Regardless, the temperature differences are minor and you can usually pack the same clothing for each region. More about that later.

Despite the overall pleasant conditions in May, there are the occasional exceptions when you might experience:

• A cold front, especially in early May, when the temps can drop a few degrees for maybe 1-3 days
• A heat wave, especially in late May, when it already might feel like summer.

During all the years I have been living here I have almost never experienced a May with completely bad weather. Sure, it can rain sometimes or it is a bit cooler at the beginning of the month, especially in the mornings and evenings, but overall I love how pleasant and warm this time of year is.

Rain

Even though May is relatively compared to other months in Germany, as a traveler you should still expect some occasional showers or rain.

The rainfall in Germany in May is mostly light and moderate and the chances of heavy rain or thunderstorms are relatively low. The average precipitation is between 1.3 and 4.0 inches (34-103 mm). The rainfall increases slightly but steadily throughout the month.

It usually rains more during May in the south (Bavaria, Munich), than in the northern and central regions.

Snow

In May it typically doesn’t snow anymore in Germany. On rare occasions, there might be a short snowfall in early May in the south. However, it won’t last long and the snow won’t stick as the ground is too warm.

Weather Details | Major Cities

When traveling to Germany in May, it’s important to know the temperatures for the most popular cities.

Hamburg (Northern Germany)

Hamburg, located in the northern part of Germany, generally experiences mild to warm temperatures during this month. Therefore, it’s a comfortable time to visit the city and explore its famous attractions like the Speicherstadt, the Port of Hamburg, St. Pauli, and more.

In May the average high temperature ranges from 60°F to 66°F (15°C to 19°C) in Hamburg, making it a comfortable place to be outdoors. There are around 8-9 rainy days and an average of 1.3-1.8 inches of precipitation (34-47mm).

Hamburg’s average high temps during May:

• Early May: 60°F (15°C)
• Mid-May: 62°F (17°C)
• Late May: 66°F (19°C)

Berlin (Northeastern Germany)

The weather in Berlin is usually pleasant in May, and the city is bursting with blooming flowers and lush vegetation. The average high temperature ranges from 63°F to 69°F (17-21°C) with average precipitation between 1.2 and 1.8 inches (30-45mm). It rains for about 8 days.

All this makes it a perfect time to making it a perfect month to explore the Tiergarten and other outdoor areas in the city

Berlin’s average high temps during May:

• Early May: 63°F (17°C)
• Mid-May: 66°F (19°C)
• Late May: 69°F (21°C)

Cologne (Western Germany)

In May the average high temperature in Cologne ranges from 63°F to 69°F (17°C-21°C). That’s slightly warmer than in the northern region and cities like Hamburg. There are between 11 and 12 rainy days. The average precipitation is 1.7-2.2 inches (44-56 mm).

Average high temps in May:

• Early May in Cologne: 63°F (17°C)
• Mid-May in Cologne: 65°F (18°C)
• Late May in Cologne: 69°F (21°C)

Frankfurt (Southwestern Germany/Central Location)

The city of Frankfurt is also a little warmer compared to northern Germany. Its temperatures in May range from 63°F to 69°F (17-21°C) and the average rainfall is 1.6-2.0. Inches (40-52 mm).

In Frankfurt, it rains 9 days on average. The average high temps throughout May:

• Early May: 63°F (17°C)
• Mid-May: 65°F (18°C)
• Late May: 69°F (21°C)

Dresden (Eastern Germany)

Dresden receives an average of 1.5-2.2 inches (37-55 mm) of rain in May. The average high temps during the month are:

• Early May: 63°F (17°C)
• Mid-May: 66°F (19°C)
• Late May: 69°F (21°C)

Nuremberg (Nürnberg)

Nuremberg receives 1.6-2.4 inches (40-61 mm) of rainfall in May and has the following average high temperatures:

• Early May: 63°F (17°C)
• Mid-May: 65°F (18°C)
• Late May: 69°F (21°C)

Munich (Southern Germany)

Munich in Bavaria generally experiences mild to warm temperatures in the month of May, with average highs in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (16-20°C).

Overall, May is considered to be one of the most pleasant months to visit Munich. Additionally, you will see fewer crowds compared to peak summer months when this popular city gets really busy.

In southern Germany, in Munich, the average rainfall of 2.6-4.0 inches (65-103 mm) is higher compared to the northern regions. In other words: While it’s still a quite dry month, there is a chance of more and longer rain showers here in the south.

The average high temperatures during this month:

• Early May: 61°F (16°C)
• Mid-May: 63°F (17°C)
• Late May: 67°F (20°C)

Crowds and Rates

While it is getting a little busier compared to the previous months of March and April, May is still within the low season or shoulder season for tourism in Germany. Rates for flights, hotels, and rental cars are still reasonable.

However, it depends on the location and time. Typically the major attractions draw more visitors on the weekends and on public holidays. Especially many Germans like to go on short trips with their families then.

💡 Tip: To save money, book your hotel well in advance for a May visit. For Germany, the best site is booking.com (Hotel Deals in Germany). Save it! I have never used any other website for accommodation bookings in Germany.

Good to know: Please keep in mind that during the many public holidays which occur in May, hotel rates can climb as well.

Public holidays:

• Labour Day
  (Tag der Arbeit): May 1
• Ascension Day
  (Christi Himmelfahrt): Mid-May (40 days after Easter)
• Whitmonday
  (Pfingstmontag): Late May (can also happen in early June)

Outfits | Packing Tips

In early May, you typically wear light pants and t-shirts or long-sleeve shirts with light jackets in Germany. You might need an extra layer for the mornings or a medium jacket. As the month continues, you might even wear shorts and t-shirts.

When visiting Germany in May, it’s always best to carry an extra jacket or extra layers, especially if you’re an early riser or late-night explorer. The mornings and evenings are cooler, especially early in the month.

Tip: Regardless of the drier weather, bring a light rain jacket and an umbrella. Particularly if you visit southern Germany, where the chance of rain is higher at the end of the month.

Basic Packing List:

• Waterproof jacket (easiest way to stay dry in the rain)
• Waterproof boots/shoes (to help avoid soggy feet while in the city or hiking)
• Multiple pairs of socks
• Light sweaters/jackets (for cooler morning/evening temps)
• Jeans/pants
• Shorts
• T-shirts/lighter blouses & shirts
• Dresses (for special occasions, get-togethers, dinners)
• Sneakers (essential for city explorations)
• Umbrella

Essential Outfits | Packing Tips

Light Jacket | Rain Jacket

The weather is considerably warmer than in previous months, however, it can still be a little chilly. A jacket such as a denim jacket or a lightweight raincoat is ideal for exploring most of Germany’s areas and cities. Go with jeans and a T-shirt for a relaxed outfit during May.

For early mornings and nighttime, you will need a jacket as the temperatures can drop to 15°C (59°F), so choose a smart tailored style such as a light blazer.

Sneakers

Sneakers are a popular footwear choice in Germany and are a versatile option that goes with many outfits.

Alternatively, you can opt for a classic white pair that will look great with light jeans and dresses. Whatever style you choose, make sure you can walk a few miles in them as many cities are best navigated on foot.

Ankle Boots

A smart ankle boot should still be a part of your travel outfits during spring for evenings out. A leather ankle boot or a boot with interesting features will add a sophisticated style to your outfits for a night out in any German city.

Ankle boots are ideal for transforming outfits from day to night and will also help keep feet dry during May’s rain showers.

Knitwear

Although the temperatures are getting warmer in May, it can still get cooler, especially at night and in the first part of the month, so bring a lightweight sweater. A versatile sweater cardigan is ideal for throwing on over t-shirts and blouses when it gets chilly.

On bright sunny days, you don’t need your jacket, particularly in late May when temperatures can reach 20C or higher.

Dresses (Women)

The warm weather is ideal for lightening up your outfits, and dresses are a versatile item in your travel wardrobe. For springtime, you can have fun with color and print with pretty floral patterns making an ideal springtime dress.

During the day, you can wear colorful dresses with trainers and, in the evening, transition to a longer style with a smart jacket.

Jeans

Jeans are a classic item of clothing and essential when exploring Germany. As the weather brightens up you can do the same with your jeans, by choosing a lighter wash. In terms of style, I see every type of jeans worn throughout Germany, so choose a style you are comfortable in.

Ankle-length jeans are ideal for Germany’s spring weather and look great paired with a relaxed t-shirt and sneakers for a casual day of sightseeing.

Compact Umbrella | Windproof

Ensure to pack a compact umbrella in your luggage for those sudden rain showers. However, with only a lower chance of rain, you won’t need it too often, although it’s always good to be prepared.

💡 We would always bring a windproof umbrella!

Lightweight Backpack

Carry a small rucksack to hold your essentials such as your water bottle, umbrella and any snacks you’ll need for a day out. A rucksack will also be handy for any small gifts you might buy on your travels around the capital.

Crossbody Bag

Keep valuables such as wallets, phones, passports and keys safe in a bag with a strap that crosses your body. Your valuables will be kept where you can see them and reach them easily. Although Germany is safe for tourists, thieves are known to operate, especially in the busier cities.

Exception | Higher Elevations

If you visit a higher mountain range in May, you need to pack an extra jacket to keep you warm. At the peak of our highest mountain, the Zugspitze in Bavaria, temps still drop to freezing in May.

Things to Do

May is the first month when all outdoor activities are truly fun in Germany because of the warm weather. I love going for a strenuous hike now and then later relaxing in one of our beautiful beer gardens.

Don’t forget to check out one of our many ice cream parlors where you can sit outside eating a tasty gelato.

I compiled the best activities for each city. [will be extended soon]

Hamburg

Outdoor activities:

The Alsterpark is a big park in the middle of the city that features numerous hiking routes that run through verdant vegetation and offers stunning views. The park is beautiful in the spring when the trees and flowers are blooming.

I love to walk the ‘Alsterwanderweg’ (Alster hiking route) when the weather is pleasant. It’s a gorgeous route where can walk miles in the middle of the city.

Elbe River Boat Tours: The Elbe River is a key waterway in Hamburg. You can take one of many boat tours to see the city of Hamburg from the water. In May, many people choose to go on boat tours to enjoy those gorgeous surroundings.

The Speicherstadt is a popular tourist destination in Hamburg, and for a good reason: the brick warehouses built there in the late 19th and early 20th centuries are architectural masterpieces. You can get acquainted with the area’s intriguing history and architecture.

Touring the Port of Hamburg is a fantastic chance way to gain insight into the inner workings of a large commercial port. In fact, this is one of the busiest and most important ports in Europe. You can take a tour of the port to get an up-close look at the cranes and other machinery used to load and unload the various cargo ships that arrive and depart.

Indoor activities:

Miniatur Wunderland is a model train display in Hamburg that features miniature replicas of famous buildings, landscapes, and attractions from all around the globe. A visit is a wonderful idea on one of those few afternoons when it rains in May.

International Maritime Museum: A rainy day is your chance to explore the rich history of seafaring and naval technology at the International Maritime Museum. It is one of the world’s largest maritime museums. If you are fascinated by the subject and want to learn more about maritime culture and history, this is a great opportunity

The Elbphilharmonie is Hamburg’s music venue and the home of the city’s symphony orchestra. The music hall has stunning views of the city and river and state-of-the-art acoustics. If you enjoy music and culture this is the perfect opportunity.

Berlin

Berlin is considered one of the most exciting, beautiful, and diverse cities in the world. When visiting the capital of Germany in May, here are some of the top things to do:

Outdoor Activities:

Tiergarten Park is a big park in the center of Berlin, perfect for a stroll, picnic, or just enjoying the spring weather. It features a small zoo, a lake, and numerous monuments and fountains.

Boat Tour: As the temperatures in Berlin during the months of April and May tend to be more pleasant, taking a boat tour across the city’s many waterways is a fantastic way to explore the sites without getting too wet or cold.

Museum Island is a collection of five internationally renowned museums on an island in the River Spree, and it houses some of Berlin’s most priceless cultural artifacts.

Berlin Wall: You can learn about Berlin’s past and see what remains of the Wall on a sunny day by going to the Berlin Wall Memorial.

Indoor Activities:

Museums: Check out one of Berlin’s many world-class museums, such as the Pergamon Museum’s ancient Middle Eastern treasures or the Alte Nationalgalerie’s 19th-century art collection, or the Jewish Museum Berlin’s exhibits on the city’s Jewish past.

Chocolate Tour: On a rainy day, you can avoid the bad weather and yet get to enjoy some tasty sweets by going on a chocolate tour. Experience some of Berlin’s finest chocolate at its origin.

Dom: The Berliner Dom is a stunning cathedral and a fantastic option for an afternoon with bad weather. It has a majestic dome and is decorated with mosaics, frescoes, and sculptures.

Fernsehturm: The Fernsehturm is a tall tower with an observation deck, offering stunning views of the city. It’s a fantastic way to see the city from above on a rainy day.

Cologne

A rhine river cruise should be on your bucket list when you are in Cologne. You discover the city’s beautiful sights and its harbor on this tour.

Frankfurt

This is my hometown and there is one activity I recommend for every month with pleasant weather: A sightseeing river cruise! Although I know my city so well, I do one once a year.

Dresden

Besides getting to know the gorgeous city of Dresden via a cruise on the Elbe River I highly recommend visiting the iconic Semperoper!

Munich

There are two things I always do in Munich: Visiting Castle Neuschwanstein, which is gorgeous in May, and a hop-on, hop-off city tour. Everything else is optional 😉