Last updated: February 26, 2025
Cannes in May offers a delightful Mediterranean climate, characterized by maximum temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), making it an ideal time to enjoy the region's stunning scenery. While the minimum temperature can dip to 10°C (50°F), the pleasant warmth invites outdoor activities and events. Visitors should be prepared for occasional rain, as the city experiences about 53 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days. With humidity levels averaging 74%, the air is rich and refreshing, providing a vibrant backdrop for the renowned Cannes Film Festival and other cultural festivities.
In May, Cannes, France begins to fully embrace the warmth of spring, with temperatures showcasing a delightful transition. The minimum temperature rises to a comfortable 10°C (50°F), while average highs soar to 28°C (82°F), creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for enjoying the vibrant outdoor spaces. This month marks a significant increase compared to April, where the maximum was 22°C (72°F), signaling the approach of summer with longer, sunnier days. Visitors can relish in the 17°C (63°F) average temperature, making May an ideal time to explore Cannes’ stunning coastline or partake in its renowned film festivities. As the city buzzes with activity, the lovely weather provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable getaway.
In Cannes, France, May typically sees a moderate precipitation amount of 53 mm (2.1 in), accompanied by around 9 rainy days. This places May slightly below the wetter months of April and March, which receive 77 mm and 66 mm respectively. As spring progresses into early summer, the trend indicates a gradual reduction in rainfall, with June experiencing just 31 mm and only 4 days of precipitation. This pattern showcases a shift towards drier weather as the region prepares for the festive summer season, making May a transitional month where you can enjoy the blossoming beauty of Cannes while still keeping an eye on the occasional spring shower.
In May, Cannes experiences a moderate humidity level of 74%, which aligns closely with the trend seen in the preceding months of April and March. As spring progresses, the humidity begins to stabilize, maintaining a comfortable atmosphere as the region gears up for the summer months. Notably, May’s humidity is a slight dip from April's 75%, yet it feels refreshing compared to the peak levels observed during the winter months. This gradual decrease sets the tone for the drier summer ahead, with July and August boasting even lower humidity levels of 69% and 66%, respectively. Overall, May serves as a transitional month, offering a pleasant balance before the warmth of summer fully settles in.
As May arrives in Cannes, France, the UV Index skyrockets to 9, indicating a very high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, it's critical for sun-seekers to take precautions against overexposure. This sharp increase from the previous months highlights a definitive trend: as spring transitions into summer, both UV levels and the intensity of the sun rise significantly. Following May, the intensity remains elevated, peaking in June at 10. So, whether you're basking on the beach or exploring the local sights, ensure you're equipped with sunscreen and protective gear to enjoy the stunning Côte d'Azur safely. For more detailed information, check out the full Cannes UV Index.
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May heralds the arrival of Cannes' sun-drenched days, with 406 hours of glorious sunshine illuminating the French Riviera. This vibrant month continues the upward trend of increased sunlight that begins in the earlier months, showcasing a remarkable transition from 199 hours in January to an impressive peak as summer approaches. As the days grow longer and brighter, May not only acts as a prelude to the bustling summer season but also solidifies its status as a time of warmth and light, setting the stage for the months to come when June and July reach their zenith with 422 and 438 hours respectively. This seasonal evolution invites both locals and visitors to relish the beauty of Cannes, making it a prime destination for sun-seekers and festival-goers alike.
As the vibrant month of May approaches in Cannes, France, the likelihood of sunny weather stands at 49%, reflecting a slight dip from the warmer months before and after. The trend shows that while April's sunshine is a little less assured at 47%, May represents a transition towards the brighter summer months, where the chance of sun begins to rise significantly, peaking at 72% in August. Following a promising March with 66% sunshine chances, May's weather holds a character of unpredictability, balancing the remnants of spring with the anticipation of summer. This month serves as a reminder that while sunshine is a delightful possibility, it’s wise to keep an umbrella handy just in case!
As spring transitions into summer, Cannes, France experiences a significant increase in daylight hours, reaching a delightful 14 hours in May. This month stands out as a turning point, ushering in longer, sun-soaked days that exceed the 13 hours recorded in April. Following May, daylight peaks in June and July with 15 hours, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and seaside relaxation. As summer gradually fades, daylight hours begin to decline, tapering off to 12 hours in September before descending further into the shorter days of autumn and winter. Overall, the extended daylight in May signals the onset of vibrant seasonal activities in this beautiful coastal town, making it a perfect time to embrace the sunny allure of the French Riviera.
In May, Cannes experiences a delightful uptick in average wind speed, reaching 4.3 m/s (10 mph). This springtime breeze is part of a broader trend, as the wind begins to dip after the winter months, gradually increasing in speed through May before tapering off in the summer. The contrast is notable: while January through April sees gentler winds, often below 4 m/s, May stands out with its refreshing gusts, setting the stage for the vibrant outdoor activities that define the season. As we transition into June and July, the winds soften again, dropping to 2.7 m/s (6 mph), yet the invigorating May air serves as a cherished reminder of the playful winds that herald the summertime in this glamorous coastal city.
The weather in Cannes changes throughout the year, offering a unique experience in each season. Below is a month-by-month comparison of May's weather with other months, highlighting differences in temperature, precipitation, and other key factors. Click on each section to discover seasonal trends in Cannes and find detailed weather information for every month.
In comparing the weather between May and January, May boasts warmer temperatures with a minimum of 10°C (50°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at 28°C (82°F). In contrast, January experiences cooler temperatures, where the minimum is 4°C (40°F) and the average is just 10°C (50°F), with a maximum reaching 17°C (63°F). While May receives slightly more precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in) over about 9 days, January has a similar amount of precipitation at 48 mm (1.9 in) but spread over only 5 days. Additionally, January's humidity is notably higher at 80%, compared to May's 74%. For a detailed look at January weather, you can refer to Cannes weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, it's clear that May is significantly warmer. While February experiences a mild average temperature of 11°C (51°F), May reaches an average of 17°C (63°F) and can soar to a maximum of 28°C (82°F). February's temperature can drop to a chilly minimum of 0°C (33°F), whereas May maintains a more comfortable minimum of 10°C (50°F). In terms of precipitation, May has slightly higher rainfall at 53 mm (2.1 in) over 9 days, compared to February's 45 mm (1.8 in) over 6 days. Humidity levels are similar, with February at 73% and May at 74%. For a detailed look at February weather, check out Cannes weather in February.
In comparing the weather between March and May, May generally offers a more temperate climate, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), while March sees lower averages, with temperatures spanning from 2°C (36°F) to a maximum of 19°C (66°F). May also experiences less precipitation, with 53 mm (2.1 in) over 9 days compared to March's 66 mm (2.6 in) across just 5 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in May at 74%, compared to March’s 71%. For a more detailed look at March weather, visit Cannes weather in March.
In comparing the weather of May and April, May tends to be warmer with minimum temperatures around 10°C (50°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), whereas April starts off cooler, with a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and an average temperature of 14°C (57°F). The maximum temperatures in May reach up to 28°C (82°F), significantly higher than April's peak of 22°C (72°F). However, April experiences more precipitation, with 77 mm (3.0 in) compared to May's 53 mm (2.1 in), both having rainfall over 9 days. Humidity levels are relatively similar, with April at 75% and May at 74%. For more detailed information, you can check out Cannes weather in April.
May and June show a notable transition in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), averaging 17°C (63°F). This month also tends to be wetter, with 53 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over about 9 days and humidity levels around 74%. In contrast, June experiences warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 15°C (59°F), an average of 22°C (71°F), and a peak of 31°C (88°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 31 mm (1.2 in) over just 4 days, and humidity levels remain relatively stable at 72%. For more detailed information, check out Cannes weather in June.
In May, the weather tends to be mild, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F). It experiences more precipitation, with about 53 mm (2.1 in) falling over 9 days, alongside a higher humidity level of 74%. In contrast, July is noticeably warmer, with minimum temperatures starting at 18°C (64°F) and peaking at 32°C (90°F), resulting in a comfortable average of 24°C (76°F). This month boasts significantly less rainfall, with only 15 mm (0.6 in) over just 3 days, and slightly lower humidity at 69%. For more insights on the warm July weather, check out Cannes weather in July.
May and August present quite distinct weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). The month sees a fair amount of rain, with 53 mm (2.1 in) spread over 9 days, contributing to a relatively high humidity level of 74%. In contrast, August is warmer and drier, with temperatures varying from a minimum of 19°C (67°F) to a maximum of 32°C (90°F), averaging 25°C (77°F). Precipitation drops significantly to just 14 mm (0.5 in) over 3 days, and humidity also decreases to 66%. For a more detailed look at August weather, you can check out Cannes weather in August.
In May, temperatures begin to warm up, ranging from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). The month experiences around 53 mm (2.1 in) of precipitation over 9 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity level of 74%. In contrast, September offers slightly warmer temperatures, with a minimum of 14°C (57°F) and a maximum of 29°C (84°F), averaging at 22°C (71°F). This month sees less precipitation, totaling about 47 mm (1.9 in) over just 7 days, and a lower humidity level of 71%. For more insights into weather patterns, check out Cannes weather in September.
In May, the weather typically features a warm average temperature of 17°C (63°F), with peak highs reaching 28°C (82°F). This month experiences moderate precipitation of 53 mm (2.1 in) over about 9 days, and humidity sits at 74%. In contrast, October offers a slightly cooler environment, with an average temperature of 18°C (65°F) and maximums of 26°C (79°F). However, it sees a notable increase in rainfall, totaling 127 mm (5.0 in) despite having only 7 rainy days, along with a humidity level of 78%. For more specifics on October weather, you can check out Cannes weather in October.
May and November present distinct weather contrasts. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (50°F) to a maximum of 28°C (82°F), accompanied by lower precipitation at 53 mm (2.1 in) over about 9 days, making for a relatively warmer and drier climate. In comparison, November experiences cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 7°C (44°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), alongside significantly higher precipitation of 151 mm (5.9 in) over 12 days and increased humidity at 82%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Cannes weather in November.
May and December present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 10°C (50°F) at night to a warm 28°C (82°F) during the day, with an average of 17°C (63°F). The month enjoys relatively low precipitation of 53 mm (2.1 in) over 9 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, December is cooler, with temperatures dipping to a minimum of 5°C (41°F) and peaking at 18°C (64°F), averaging around 11°C (52°F). It also sees significantly higher precipitation, totaling 100 mm (3.9 in) over 8 days and a slightly higher humidity of 79%. For more detailed information on December weather, you can check Cannes weather in December.
As spring unfolds, May in Cannes boasts an inviting climate that significantly differs from the chillier months of early spring. With temperatures rising to a delightful maximum of 28°C (82°F) during the day, the region transitions into a mild and pleasant ambiance, ideal for outdoor activities and events. While the average temperature of 17°C (63°F) offers comfortable evenings, occasional rainfall—approximately 53 mm spread across about 9 days—ensures that the lush Mediterranean landscape remains vibrant and alive. The humidity level of 74% adds a touch of warmth to the gentle spring air, making it a captivating choice for those seeking sunny days before the summer heat sets in. For a deeper insight into the climate throughout the year, explore Cannes Climate.