Last updated: February 26, 2025
In May, the charming city of Marseille, France experiences a delightful mixture of temperatures, making it an ideal time to explore. With a maximum temperature reaching up to 28°C (83°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F), days are generally warm and inviting. However, nights can be cooler, dipping to a minimum of 8°C (47°F). Visitors should be prepared for occasional rain, as the city sees about 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, with a humidity level hovering around 74%. This combination of warmth and sporadic showers creates a refreshing spring atmosphere, perfect for enjoying Marseille's stunning outdoor scenery.
In May, Marseille experiences a delightful shift in temperatures as spring fully unfolds. With minimums rising to 8°C (47°F) and daytime averages soaring to a comfortable 17°C (64°F), the city sets the stage for pleasant outdoor adventures. The maximum temperature can reach an enticing 28°C (83°F), allowing residents and visitors alike to bask in the Mediterranean warmth. This month marks a notable transition from the cool snap of earlier months, welcoming a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploring the scenic coastline and indulging in al fresco dining. As the days grow longer and sunnier, May encapsulates the charm of Marseille's spring, making it an ideal time to enjoy the city's lively cultural scene and stunning landscapes.
May in Marseille experiences a moderate level of precipitation, with 60 mm (2.4 in) accumulating over 8 days. This signals a noticeable transition from the wetter spring months of April, which saw 68 mm (2.7 in), to the drier weeks of summer ahead. As the temperatures begin to rise, May's rain acts as a refreshing precursor to the dry, sun-soaked months of June and July, where precipitation drops significantly. Interestingly, despite the reduction, May remains one of the wetter months in this region, bridging the gap between the lushness of spring and the aridness of summer. This pattern highlights Marseille's unique climate, where rainfall tends to taper off sharply as the season progresses, paving the way for the vibrant sunny days that characterize the Mediterranean lifestyle.
In May, Marseille experiences a comfortable humidity level of 74%, which is a slight decrease from the more humid spring months. This trend showcases the city's gradual transition into summer, as humidity levels begin to dip from the peak of 80% in January to 72% in June. Such a shift not only welcomes warmer weather but also enhances the overall outdoor experience, making it ideal for exploring the picturesque coastline and vibrant city life. As the seasons progress, the humidity continues to decline, reaching its lowest points during the heart of summer, which can be a refreshing change for both residents and visitors alike.
As May arrives in Marseille 15, the UV Index soars to 9, marking a significant jump into the very high exposure category. This increase highlights a trend of intensifying sun exposure as the months progress, with May showing a notable departure from the more moderate levels seen earlier in the year. Previously, in April, the UV Index reached 7, which already called for careful sun safety measures with a burn time of just 25 minutes. Now, with only 15 minutes till sunburn, it’s crucial to be proactive about skin protection. This rising UV Index trend signifies that as summer approaches, staying informed about UV levels will be essential for safe outdoor activities. For more detailed information, visit Marseille 15 UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In May, Marseille basks in a radiant glow, boasting 407 hours of sunshine, a notable increase that hints at the approaching summer. The month springs forth as the shining peak of spring, following a steady ascent from 201 hours in January and 260 in February. As daylight gradually stretches, May stands out not just for its warmth but also for laying the foundation for the sunniest months ahead, weaving a tapestry of light that transitions smoothly into **June's impressive 424 hours. This uplifting trend in sunshine not only elevates the spirits of locals and visitors alike but also invites an array of outdoor activities against the backdrop of stunning Mediterranean vistas.
In Marseille in May, the likelihood of experiencing sunny weather stands at a moderate 48%, reflecting a slight dip after the sun-drenched days of April. As spring progresses, the sun begins to emerge more frequently, building up to the peak summer months. March shows the strongest transition toward sunnier weather at 65%, while May sits comfortably in the middle of the monthly spectrum, just before the sunniest months of July and August, which boast chances of sunshine at 66% and 73%, respectively. This trend suggests that while May may not be the sunniest month, it offers a promising taste of the sunny skies that are just around the corner.
As spring transitions into summer, Marseille basks in an increasing duration of daylight that significantly enhances its vibrant atmosphere. Starting with 9 hours in January, the days progressively lengthen, reaching 14 hours by May. This rise in daylight hours not only brightens the city but also invites residents and visitors alike to enjoy the picturesque sites and outdoor activities. The peak of daylight is experienced in June with 15 hours, before a gradual tapering begins as autumn approaches. By September, daylight dips to 12 hours, reflecting the natural rhythm of the seasons. This increase and subsequent decrease emphasize Marseille's delightful climate, making spring and early summer particularly appealing for outdoor enthusiasts.
In Marseille, the average wind speed in May is 5.8 m/s (13 mph), reflecting a slight uptick compared to the more tranquil months of April and March. As spring unfolds, the winds pick up from their seasonal lows, showcasing a gentle resurgence that hints at the approaching warmth of summer. Looking back through the year, the winds begin to decrease from January’s December peak of 7.2 m/s (16 mph), reaching their calmest point in April, before finding their balance again in May. This pattern indicates a navigable breeze that enhances the city’s lively atmosphere, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy the stunning waterfront while basking in the balmy spring air.
The weather in Marseille 15 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 Marseille 15 and find detailed weather information for every month.
May and January present stark contrasts in weather. May enjoys a much warmer climate, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a pleasant average of 17°C (64°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F). This month experiences 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, with humidity levels at 74%. In contrast, January is cooler, with a minimum temperature of 1°C (34°F) and an average of 9°C (48°F), reaching a maximum of 17°C (63°F). While January has slightly less precipitation at 50 mm (2.0 in) across about 7 days, it has a higher humidity level of 80%. For more specifics about January weather, you can explore Marseille 15 weather in January.
When comparing the weather in May and February, May tends to be significantly warmer, with average temperatures around 17°C (64°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F), while February averages only 11°C (51°F) and maxes out at 18°C (65°F). In terms of precipitation, May receives more rainfall, totaling 60 mm (2.4 in) over approximately 8 days, compared to February's 29 mm (1.2 in) over 5 days. Both months have similar humidity levels, with February at 73% and May slightly higher at 74%. For a deeper dive into February's weather specifics, you can explore Marseille 15 weather in February.
In comparing the weather of May and March, May typically presents milder temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (47°F) and an average high of 28°C (83°F), while March starts cooler, featuring a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation levels are higher in May, with 60 mm (2.4 in) spread over 8 days, compared to March's 42 mm (1.6 in) over just 5 days. Humidity also slightly increases in May at 74%, compared to 71% in March, indicating a shift towards a more humid environment as spring progresses. For more details on March weather, you can visit Marseille 15 weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, it is evident that May experiences warmer temperatures, with an average of 17°C (64°F) compared to April's 14°C (58°F). The minimum temperature in May is also higher at 8°C (47°F), while April starts at 4°C (40°F). Maximum temperatures in May can reach 28°C (83°F), significantly warmer than April's high of 22°C (72°F). However, April sees slightly more rainfall with 68 mm (2.7 in) compared to May's 60 mm (2.4 in), both months experiencing precipitation on about eight days. Humidity levels remain similar, with April at 75% and May at 74%. For a more detailed look at the weather specifics, you can check Marseille 15 weather in April.
In May, temperatures in the region range from a cool 8°C (47°F) at night to a warmer average of 17°C (64°F), peaking at 28°C (83°F) during the day. With 60 mm (2.4 in) of rainfall over 8 days, May sees higher precipitation and humidity levels at 74%. Conversely, June experiences a noticeable increase in temperatures, with minimums around 14°C (58°F) and an average of 22°C (71°F), reaching highs of 32°C (90°F). The month is drier, receiving only 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain over just 4 days, and the humidity slightly decreases to 72%. For more details, you can check Marseille 15 weather in June.
May and July exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a cool 8°C (47°F) at night to a pleasant 28°C (83°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 17°C (64°F). This month sees a higher level of precipitation, with about 60 mm (2.4 in) falling over 8 days, contributing to a relatively humid atmosphere with 74% humidity.
In contrast, July brings warmer conditions, featuring minimum temperatures of 17°C (63°F) and maximums reaching 30°C (87°F), with an average of 24°C (76°F). This month experiences significantly less rainfall, totaling only 11 mm (0.4 in) over just 2 days, and the humidity also drops slightly to 69%. For more details on the weather trends in July, you can visit Marseille 15 weather in July.
The weather in May is characterized by milder temperatures, with averages hovering around 17°C (64°F) and maximums reaching up to 28°C (83°F). This month also sees more rainfall, with about 60 mm (2.4 in) falling over approximately 8 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 74%. In contrast, August experiences warmer conditions, boasting average temperatures of 24°C (76°F) and highs that can reach 33°C (92°F). Notably, it sees significantly less precipitation, only 13 mm (0.5 in) over just 1 day, resulting in lower humidity at 66%. For a detailed look at August weather in the region, you can visit Marseille 15 weather in August.
May and September offer distinct weather experiences, with May characterized by milder temperatures and higher humidity. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F), with an average of 17°C (64°F) and 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over about 8 days. Meanwhile, September showcases slightly warmer conditions, with temperatures ranging from 12°C (54°F) to 29°C (84°F), averaging 21°C (71°F) and featuring less rainfall at 38 mm (1.5 in) over just 5 days. Humidity in September is also slightly lower at 71%, compared to May's 74%. For more detailed September weather information, you can refer to the following link: Marseille 15 weather in September.
In comparing May and October weather, both months exhibit similar average temperatures, around 17-18°C (64°F), but October generally sees slightly cooler maximum temperatures, peaking at 25°C (77°F) compared to May’s warmer 28°C (83°F). Precipitation is more pronounced in October, with 86 mm (3.4 in) falling over six days, contrasting with May’s 60 mm (2.4 in) across eight days, indicating a wetter climate as autumn approaches. Additionally, humidity levels rise slightly in October, reaching 78% compared to May’s 74%. For more details on October weather in Marseille, check this link: Marseille 15 weather in October.
May and November showcase distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a mild 8°C (47°F) to a warm 28°C (83°F), presenting an average of 17°C (64°F). The month experiences 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over about 8 days, with a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, November features cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 6°C (43°F) and a maximum of 20°C (68°F), averaging 13°C (56°F). Rainfall is notably higher in November, totaling 116 mm (4.5 in) across 12 days, coupled with increased humidity at 82%. For a more detailed look at November weather, you can check Marseille 15 weather in November.
In May, the weather is generally warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 28°C (83°F) and an average of 17°C (64°F). The month experiences about 60 mm (2.4 in) of precipitation over approximately 8 days, with humidity levels around 74%. In contrast, December brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F), an average of 10°C (51°F), and a maximum of 18°C (65°F). Precipitation slightly increases to 61 mm (2.4 in) over about 10 days, and humidity rises to 79%. For more detailed weather information specific to December, you can visit Marseille 15 weather in December.
In May, Marseille welcomes a delightful shift in weather, offering a refreshing blend of warmth and mild conditions that stands out from the chill of winter and the heat of summer. With an average temperature that invites outdoor exploration, this month is characterized by higher humidity levels and occasional rain, keeping the landscape lush and vibrant. As it transitions into the hotter months, May serves as a perfect reminder of the city’s beautiful climate before the peaks of summer. For a detailed overview of Marseille's climate, check out Marseille 15 Climate.