What May feels like in Amsterdam
For Amsterdam, May is late spring on the calendar. Days are on the cool side, the kind of weather that suits brisk sightseeing. Little changes after sunset — nights are cool, only slightly below the daytime level. Moisture in the air gives the cold a damp edge.
Rain in Amsterdam in May
Showers are a regular feature, arriving about one day in 3. A rainy day brings about 5.7 mm (0.2 in) on average — steady rain rather than a passing shower. That is close to Amsterdam's typical rain per wet day for the whole year (about 5.5 mm).
Daylight and sunshine in May
On 15 May the sun rises at about 5:46 am and sets around 9:27 pm local time, giving 15 h 41 min of daylight. The days are stretching out — 1 h 49 min more daylight than mid-April. About 71% of daylight hours are sunny; in short, there are plenty of bright spells.
How May compares to the rest of the year
In Amsterdam's temperature order, May sits as the 5th warmest month. Against April, the average high is 3.5°C (6.3°F) higher, with 21 mm more rain. The warm-up continues into June. June averages a high of 19.7°C (67.5°F).
Who May suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — comfortable enough to explore on foot all day.
- Parks & outdoor: a good fit — good conditions for sitting outside.
- Beach: less ideal — the sea air is too cool.
Tips for visiting Amsterdam in May
Rain Protection
A compact umbrella and a light waterproof jacket.
Light Jacket
Bring a sweater or light coat for cool afternoons.
Sunglasses
Frequent sunshine — sunglasses and a light hat.
Quick questions
How warm is Amsterdam in May?
Afternoons average 16.8°C (62.2°F) and nights about 9.4°C (48.9°F) — cool by most people's standards. It is the 5th warmest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Amsterdam in May?
Yes, fairly — rain falls about one day in 3 and totals about 69 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Amsterdam in May?
The numbers point to rain protection, a light jacket and sunglasses. There is little need to change for the evening.
Is May or June better for visiting Amsterdam?
June scores better on our climate ranking (#2 of 12 vs #6), rated Good against Good. June is warmer.