What May feels like in Montreal
In Montreal, May brings late spring. Afternoons are mild and comfortable for most people in light layers. Once the sun goes down the air changes: nights are cool. Humidity is on the high side, but mild temperatures keep it comfortable.
Rain in Montreal in May
Showers are a regular feature, arriving about one day in 3. Each rainy day adds about 7.9 mm (0.3 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. Across the year Montreal averages about 8 mm per rainy day, so May is typical.
Daylight and sunshine in May
Mid-month, Montreal gets 14 h 52 min of daylight, from sunrise near 5:25 am to sunset near 8:16 pm. Since mid-April the day has gained 1 h 24 min. About 68% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, there are plenty of bright spells.
How May compares to the rest of the year
In Montreal's temperature order, May sits as the 5th warmest month. Afternoons run 7.8°C (14°F) warmer than in April, with 12 mm less rain. The warm-up continues into June. June averages a high of 23.3°C (73.9°F).
Who May suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — the weather rarely gets in the way of a city walk.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — comfortable for long walks and picnics.
Tips for visiting Montreal in May
Versatile Layers
Days are noticeably warmer than nights — layers you can add or remove.
Rain Protection
Keep a small umbrella in your bag and wear shoes that cope with puddles.
Sunglasses
Bright days make sunglasses worth packing.
Quick questions
How warm is Montreal in May?
Afternoons average 18.8°C (65.8°F) and nights about 8.6°C (47.5°F) — mild by most people's standards. It is the 5th warmest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Montreal in May?
It does: about 12 rainy days bring roughly 95 mm, so plan some indoor options.
What should I wear in Montreal in May?
The numbers point to versatile layers, rain protection and sunglasses. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is May or June better for visiting Montreal?
On our 12-month climate ranking, May comes out ahead (#4 of 12 vs #5). June is warmer and has more rainy days.