What May feels like in Stockholm
In Stockholm, May brings late spring. Afternoons are cool, pleasant for walking as long as you keep a layer on. Once the sun goes down the air changes: nights are cold. Moisture in the air gives the cold a damp edge.
Rain in Stockholm in May
Showers are a regular feature, arriving about one day in 3. Each rainy day adds about 4.8 mm (0.2 in), a proper wetting rather than a sprinkle. That is close to Stockholm's typical rain per wet day for the whole year (about 5.1 mm).
Daylight and sunshine in May
On 15 May the sun rises at about 4:16 am and sets around 9:11 pm local time, giving 16 h 55 min of daylight. Days are getting longer: 2 h 30 min more daylight than in mid-April. The sun is out for roughly 74% of those daylight hours, so 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 Stockholm. Against April, the average high is 5.3°C (9.5°F) higher, with 17 mm more rain. The warm-up continues into June. By June, typical highs are 19.4°C (66.9°F).
Who May suits
- Sightseeing: a good fit — daytime temperatures are fine for walking around.
- Parks & outdoor: less ideal — too cool to sit outside for long.
- Beach: less ideal — the sea air is too cool.
Tips for visiting Stockholm in May
Versatile Layers
Pack pieces you can take off by noon and put back on at dusk.
Rain Protection
A packable rain jacket saves the day on showery afternoons.
Light Jacket
A light jacket or knit layer is enough for most of the day.
Sunglasses
Plenty of sun, so bring sunglasses and a cap.
Quick questions
How warm is Stockholm in May?
Expect around 14.9°C (58.8°F) in the afternoon and 6.5°C (43.7°F) at night, which most visitors would call cool.
Does it rain a lot in Stockholm in May?
Quite a lot — 48 mm spread over about 10 days.
What should I wear in Stockholm in May?
Based on the averages: versatile layers, rain protection, a light jacket and sunglasses. Bring something extra for the cooler evenings.
Is May or June better for visiting Stockholm?
June, narrowly: it ranks #1 of 12 among Stockholm's months, against #3 for the other. June is warmer.