What May feels like in Saint Petersburg
Late spring arrives in Saint Petersburg with May. Expect cool, jacket-on afternoons — comfortable for a long walk. After sunset it cools off noticeably — nights are cold. The air is damp, which makes cool temperatures feel colder, particularly in wind.
Rain in Saint Petersburg in May
It is a changeable month: rain comes about one day in 3, with dry spells in between. Wet days average about 5 mm (0.2 in), enough to soak you without an umbrella. That is close to Saint Petersburg's typical rain per wet day for the whole year (about 4.9 mm).
Daylight and sunshine in May
On 15 May the sun rises at about 4:23 am and sets around 9:26 pm local time, giving 17 h 3 min of daylight. Since mid-April the day has gained 2 h 35 min. Measured sunshine covers about 73% of the daylight — there are plenty of bright spells.
How May compares to the rest of the year
May is the 5th warmest month of the year in Saint Petersburg. Compared with April, afternoons are 7.2°C (13°F) warmer, with 11 mm more rain. June continues the upward trend. The next month's average high: 19.7°C (67.5°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.
- Beach: less ideal — the sea air is too cool.
Tips for visiting Saint Petersburg in May
Versatile Layers
Mornings and evenings are cooler than midday, so dress in layers.
Rain Protection
Keep a small umbrella in your bag and wear shoes that cope with puddles.
Light Jacket
Cool days — a light jacket or sweater for walking around.
Sunglasses
Frequent sunshine — sunglasses and a light hat.
Quick questions
How warm is Saint Petersburg in May?
Afternoons average 15.1°C (59.2°F) and nights about 6.5°C (43.7°F) — cool by most people's standards. It is the 5th warmest month of the year.
Does it rain a lot in Saint Petersburg in May?
Yes, fairly — rain falls about one day in 3 and totals about 55 mm, so an umbrella is worth carrying.
What should I wear in Saint Petersburg in May?
Pack versatile layers, rain protection, a light jacket and sunglasses. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is May or June better for visiting Saint Petersburg?
On our 12-month climate ranking, June comes out ahead (#1 of 12 vs #4). June is warmer and has more rainy days.