Last updated: February 26, 2025
In May, Marseille offers a delightful blend of warm temperatures and refreshing breezes, with daily highs peaking at a comfortable 27°C (82°F) and an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). As the city transitions into early summer, the nights remain mild with lows around 8°C (46°F). While visitors can expect an average of 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain over about 8 days, the humidity remains at a pleasant 74%, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere perfect for exploring the lively streets and stunning coastal views. Overall, May in Marseille strikes a captivating balance between sunny days and occasional showers, making it an inviting time to experience this beautiful Mediterranean city.
In May, Marseille experiences a delightful transition into warmer weather, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F). The average temperature sits comfortably at 17°C (63°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploration. Compared to the preceding months, May marks a significant rise in warmth, showcasing a shift from the cooler, crisp temperatures of April. This gradual warming trend not only invites locals and tourists alike to embrace the vibrant atmosphere of the city but also signals the onset of summer, characterized by longer days and the blossoming of Mediterranean flora. Whether sipping coffee in a sun-drenched café or wandering the historic streets, May offers a perfect blend of pleasant weather and the enchanting charm of Marseille.
May in Marseille welcomes a moderate precipitation level of 63 mm (2.5 in), accompanied by an average of 8 rainy days. This uptick follows a notably wetter April, suggesting a gradual transition into the summer months. The relatively stable rainfall seen in May indicates that while spring showers still influence the region, the verdant landscapes will soon give way to the drier conditions of June, which typically only sees 24 mm (0.9 in) of rain. As such, May serves as a pivotal point, balancing the lush greenery fostered by spring rains with the impending warmth and dryness of the Mediterranean summer.
As spring turns to summer in Marseille, May brings a mild humidity level of 74%, slightly lower than the previous month. This moderate climate continues the trend from earlier months, showcasing a gradual decline in humidity from the winter months when levels hovered around 80% in January and 82% in November. Interestingly, as the city approaches the heat of summer, humidity steadily drops, hitting its lowest point in August at 66%. This consistent pattern reflects the Mediterranean influence, providing pleasant weather perfect for exploring the vibrant streets and coastal beauty of Marseille.
In May, Marseille experiences a significant uptick in ultraviolet (UV) radiation, marked by a striking UV Index of 9, placing it in the very high exposure category. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, this month serves as a clear reminder for residents and visitors alike to prioritize sun protection, following the trend of rising UV levels as spring transitions into summer. As temperatures warm, the risk of skin damage escalates sharply, a stark contrast to the much lower indices recorded in the earlier months of the year. This season's heightened UV levels underscore the importance of awareness and proactive measures to safeguard skin health. For more details on the UV Index in this sun-drenched destination, visit Marseille UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
In May, Marseille basks in an invigorating 406 hours of sunshine, marking a peak in the city’s radiant spring conditions. This month stands as a vibrant transition, following the steady climb from January's modest 199 hours to a delightful April that enjoys 352 hours. The sun-drenched days of May herald the onset of summer, where bright blue skies and warm temperatures invite locals and visitors alike to revel in outdoor adventures. This upward trend continues into the summer months, with June and July boasting even more glorious sunshine. As the year unfolds, it's clear that May is a glorious prelude to the splendid sun that defines Mediterranean living in Marseille.
In Marseille, France, May brings a moderate chance of sunny weather with 48% likelihood, slightly lower than the previous month of April, which enjoys a 55% chance. This pattern reflects an overall trend of increasing sunshine as the year progresses, with March beginning to show a significant uptick at 65%. Temperatures start to rise, paving the way for sunnier months ahead, particularly in summer when July peaks at a beautiful 67%. While May might not boast the sunniest days, it certainly marks the transition towards more vibrant weather, setting the stage for the sun-drenched days of June and July.
As spring unfolds in Marseille, the length of daylight begins its delightful ascent, with January starting at a modest 9 hours. By February, this increases to 10 hours, setting the stage for the longer days ahead. March ushers in more light with 11 hours, while April roars in with a notable jump to 13 hours, hinting at the vibrant seasons to come. May reaches a peak of 14 hours of daylight, basking the city in sunshine and inviting outdoor escapades. This luminescent trend continues into June with 15 hours, the zenith of the year, before the days gradually shorten again in July and August. As we transition into autumn, daylight dwindles to 12 hours in September and further contracts to 10 hours by October, ultimately settling at 9 hours in November and December. This cyclical rhythm showcases Marseille's enchanting seasonal variance, celebrating the beauty of each phase.
In May, the winds in Marseille begin to transition from the brisk gusts of winter to a more gentle breeze, with an average speed of 5.4 m/s (12 mph). This slight uptick from April's calm winds mirrors a trend where the spring months, particularly January and February, feature stronger winds, tapering off as summer approaches. While March and April saw a decline to around 4.3 m/s (10 mph), May brings a welcome reprieve, hinting at the vibrant vitality of the approaching summer season. Interestingly, as we move into June and beyond, the wind speeds dip again, suggesting a pattern where the strong maritime breezes give way to the warmer, calmer days of summer. This ebb and flow of wind throughout the year not only enhances the coastal charm of Marseille but also sets the stage for the lively outdoor experiences that define this beautiful city.
The weather in Marseille 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 and find detailed weather information for every month.
The weather in May is generally warmer and more pleasant compared to January. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F), with an average temperature of 17°C (63°F). This month also experiences 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over about 8 days, while maintaining a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, January sees cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 1°C (34°F) and a maximum of 16°C (62°F), averaging at 9°C (48°F). Precipitation in January is slightly lower at 55 mm (2.2 in) over 7 days, but humidity is a bit higher at 80%. For a detailed look at January weather, you can check out Marseille weather in January.
May and February present quite contrasting weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F), making it significantly warmer compared to February's range of -1°C (31°F) to 18°C (65°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F). Additionally, May experiences more precipitation, totaling 63 mm (2.5 inches) over about 8 days, while February sees only 40 mm (1.6 inches) across 7 days. Humidity levels remain similar in both months, with February at 73% and May slightly higher at 74%. For those interested in more detailed information, you can check Marseille weather in February.
In comparison to March, May experiences notably warmer temperatures, with averages soaring from 11°C (53°F) in March to 17°C (63°F) in May. The maximum temperature in May can reach up to 27°C (82°F), while March peaks at 20°C (68°F). Additionally, May sees slightly more precipitation, with an average of 63 mm (2.5 in) over 8 days compared to 49 mm (1.9 in) over 6 days in March. Humidity levels are also comparable, standing at 74% in May versus 71% in March. For a more detailed look at March weather, you can visit Marseille weather in March.
In comparing the weather between April and May, May generally presents warmer conditions, with average temperatures rising from 14°C (57°F) in April to 17°C (63°F). While April experiences a maximum temperature of 21°C (70°F), May can reach up to 27°C (82°F), making it a notably warmer month. However, both months see similar levels of precipitation, with April recording slightly more at 70 mm (2.7 in) compared to May's 63 mm (2.5 in), and both months have 8 days of rainfall. Humidity levels remain relatively consistent, with April at 75% and May at 74%. For more detailed information, you can check Marseille weather in April.
In May, the weather tends to be cooler, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F). The month has an average temperature of 17°C (63°F) and experiences 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over about 8 days, coupled with a humidity level of 74%.
In contrast, June brings warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 14°C (57°F) and highs reaching up to 31°C (88°F). The average temperature climbs to 21°C (71°F), and rainfall is significantly lower at 24 mm (0.9 in) across just 4 days, while humidity slightly decreases to 72%. This makes June feel drier and hotter compared to May. For more detailed information, you can check out Marseille weather in June.
In May, the weather is characterized by cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), reaching a maximum of 27°C (82°F). The month also sees moderate rainfall, with about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 74%. In contrast, July brings warmer conditions, featuring a minimum of 17°C (62°F) and an average temperature of 24°C (75°F), peaking at 30°C (86°F). July is much drier, with only 9 mm (0.4 in) of rainfall over just 1 day and slightly lower humidity at 69%. For a detailed look at July's weather, check out Marseille weather in July.
When comparing the weather between May and August, there are distinct differences in temperature and precipitation patterns. May experiences a more moderate temperature range, with a minimum of 8°C (46°F) and an average of 17°C (63°F), peaking at a maximum of 27°C (82°F). This month also sees substantial rainfall, totaling 63 mm (2.5 in) over about 8 days, accompanied by a relatively high humidity of 74%. In contrast, August is considerably warmer, with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 17°C (63°F) to an average of 24°C (76°F) and reaching highs of 32°C (90°F). This month is much drier, receiving only 16 mm (0.6 in) of precipitation over just 1 day and features lower humidity at 66%. For more detailed information, you can check Marseille weather in August.
May and September offer pleasant yet distinct weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F). This month also experiences relatively high humidity at 74% and more frequent precipitation, totaling 63 mm (2.5 in) over about 8 days. In contrast, September boasts slightly warmer temperatures with a minimum of 11°C (53°F), an average of 21°C (70°F), and a peak of 28°C (83°F). It also enjoys lower precipitation, with only 39 mm (1.5 in) over just 5 days and humidity at a comfortable 71%. For more details, you can check Marseille weather in September.
May and October showcase similar average temperatures, both hovering around 17°C (63°F), but their extremes differ slightly, with May reaching a maximum of 27°C (82°F) compared to October's 25°C (77°F). In terms of precipitation, October is wetter, recording 88 mm (3.5 in) over 7 days, while May sees 63 mm (2.5 in) across 8 days. The humidity levels are also slightly higher in October at 78%, compared to May's 74%. Overall, while both months have pleasant temperatures, October tends to be a bit cooler and rainier than May. For more detailed insights, check Marseille weather in October.
May and November showcase distinct weather patterns in terms of temperature and precipitation. In May, the temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a maximum of 27°C (82°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F), while November experiences cooler conditions, with temperatures ranging from 5°C (42°F) to 19°C (67°F) and an average of 13°C (56°F). Additionally, May tends to be relatively drier, receiving about 63 mm (2.5 in) of precipitation over 8 days, compared to November's wetter climate, which sees approximately 127 mm (5.0 in) over 12 days. The humidity also increases slightly from May's 74% to November's 82%, contributing to a more damp feel as the year progresses. For more detailed insights, check out this link: Marseille weather in November.
May and December offer contrasting weather experiences. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of 8°C (46°F) to a pleasant maximum of 27°C (82°F), with an average of 17°C (63°F), making it a generally warmer and sunnier month. The precipitation is moderate at 63 mm (2.5 in) over about 8 days, and humidity hovers around 74%. In contrast, December brings cooler temperatures, with a minimum of 2°C (36°F) and a maximum of 18°C (64°F), averaging just 10°C (50°F). This month tends to be slightly wetter, receiving 76 mm (3.0 in) of rain over 9 days, with humidity levels increasing to 79%. For more details, you can check Marseille weather in December.
As May unfolds in Marseille, the weather welcomes a delightful shift, boasting warmer temperatures that make outdoor activities truly enjoyable. Compared to the cooler months preceding it, this month offers a comfortable blend of sunshine and mild evenings, ideal for exploring the vibrant city. While occasional rain may grace the horizon, with a few humid days sprinkled throughout, the overall climate becomes increasingly inviting. This shift sets the perfect stage for enjoying the picturesque Mediterranean scenery. For more insights into how May fits into the wider Marseille climate, be sure to check out Marseille Climate.