Last updated: August 27, 2025
May in Zakopane, Poland, offers a dynamic weather experience characterized by a maximum temperature reaching 24°C (76°F) and an average of 10°C (50°F), providing a mild yet invigorating atmosphere. Visitors should prepare for variable conditions, as the temperature can drop to a brisk minimum of -5°C (24°F). May is notably wet, with a precipitation total of 131 mm (5.1 in) spread over approximately 20 days, leading to a humidity level of about 70%. This blend of warmth and rain creates an enchanting backdrop for outdoor activities and exploration in the stunning Tatra Mountains.
In May, Zakopane experiences a delightful transition into spring, with temperatures ranging from a crisp -5°C (24°F) at night to a pleasant 24°C (76°F) under the midday sun. The average temperature settles at around 10°C (50°F), marking a significant warming trend compared to the chill of the preceding months. As the snow melts and the flora begins to bloom, the area radiates a vibrant energy, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning natural landscapes. With each passing day, the shift from the harsh cold of winter to the mild embrace of spring becomes more pronounced, inviting visitors to savor the beauty of this picturesque destination.
May in Zakopane, Poland, marks a significant increase in precipitation, setting the stage for lush landscapes as spring fully unfolds. With 131 mm (5.1 in) of rainfall spread over 20 days, May emerges as one of the wettest months of the year, following a pattern of escalating rainfall since April's 82 mm (3.2 in). This surge not only enriches the region's flora but also contributes to the vibrant scenery that attracts nature enthusiasts. The relatively high number of rainy days hints at a transition period, where the charm of spring occasionally yields to the whims of weather. As the month progresses, the lush greenery builds upon the foundation laid by the preceding months, making May a delightful time to experience the natural beauty of Zakopane.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Zakopane, Poland, showcases a gradual decline in humidity, measuring at 70%. This marks a notable decrease from the wetter months of January through April, where humidity levels are consistently above 76%. By May, residents and visitors alike can enjoy a more balanced climate, making outdoor activities increasingly appealing. The trend continues into June, with a slight uptick to 71%, but overall, this month serves as a delightful bridge to the drier summer months ahead. The shift not only enhances comfort but also allows the surrounding natural beauty to shine, inviting exploration in the breathtaking landscapes of the Tatras.
As May arrives in Zakopane, Poland, the UV Index climbs to a significant 8, indicating a very high exposure category. With a burn time of just 15 minutes, the sun's rays can quickly lead to skin damage without proper protection. This sharp increase from April's 6 highlights a burgeoning trend in the warmer months, where both May and June share similar UV levels, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness as summer approaches. As the season progresses, remember to take necessary precautions when enjoying the great outdoors. For more detailed information, check out Zakopane UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As spring unfolds into May, Zakopane basks in its sunshine like few other months, boasting an impressive 369 hours of sunlight. This marks a delightful increase from the preceding months, showcasing a steady climb from January's modest 148 hours. The transition from winter to spring brings not only longer days but also a sense of renewal, with the sun’s rays hitting their stride since April’s 327 hours. Following May, summer continues to shine even brighter, leading into June and July, where the hours reach their annual peak. This trend of increasing daylight is not just a joy for sun-seekers; it enhances the breathtaking landscape of the Tatra Mountains, inviting a vibrant array of outdoor activities and exploration.
In May, Zakopane experiences a 27% chance of sunny weather, a slight dip compared to the previous months of April and March, which enjoy 31% and 33% sunlight likelihood, respectively. However, May's warm days hint at the transition to summer, where the sunshine potential climbs significantly to 45% in June. This shows a promising trend as the year progresses, with a steady increase in sunny days from spring into summer. Although May might not deliver as much sun as desired, it sets the stage for the vibrant warmth that follows in the peak summer months.
As spring transitions into summer, Zakopane basks in the increasing daylight that May brings, with 15 hours of sunlight gracing the region. This is a significant jump from April's 13 hours, reflecting the vibrant awakening of nature as days grow longer. Following the progression from 8 hours in January to 10 hours in February, and gradually rising through the months, May marks a delightful peak before June reaches a sun-drenched 16 hours. This upward trend not only enhances outdoor activities but also nurtures the stunning natural beauty of the Tatra Mountains, inviting both locals and visitors to relish the longer days filled with adventure and exploration. As daylight begins to wane in the following months, the lively spirit of May serves as a brief yet glorious interlude in Zakopane's seasonal rhythm.
In Zakopane, Poland, the winds of May bring a gentle breeze, with an average speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph), marking a slight increase from previous months. This is part of a subtle upward trend as spring unfolds; from January through April, wind speeds remained steady around 2.3 m/s (5 mph). Following May, a decline can be seen as summer approaches, with June and July recording a drop to 1.7 m/s (4 mph). The spring winds in May set a soothing tone for the picturesque landscapes and vibrant outdoor activities, transitioning smoothly into the calmer summer months where the air is still yet refreshing.
Weather in Zakopane varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Zakopane, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
May and January present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F) and significant precipitation of 131 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 20 days, leading to a humidity level of around 70%. Conversely, January is much colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -27°C (-16°F), averaging -5°C (23°F) and peaking at just 6°C (43°F). The month sees considerably less precipitation at 42 mm (1.6 in) over 10 days, but the humidity is notably higher at 90%. For more details about weather conditions in January, visit Zakopane weather in January.
In comparing the weather between May and February, it's clear that May offers a much milder climate. With average temperatures reaching 10°C (50°F), compared to February's average of -3°C (27°F), May allows for more comfortable outdoor activities. February experiences minimum temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F), while May's chill rarely dips below -5°C (24°F). Additionally, despite May's higher precipitation of 131 mm (5.1 in) over 20 days, the overall humidity is more manageable at 70%, in contrast to February's higher humidity of 87% alongside its 65 mm (2.6 in) of precipitation over 15 days. For those interested in more details about February weather, check out Zakopane weather in February.
The weather in May is considerably milder than in March, with average temperatures ranging from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), compared to March's chilly range of -24°C (-11°F) to 17°C (63°F). While May experiences more rainfall, with 131 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 20 days, March has a lower precipitation total of 56 mm (2.2 in) over 13 days. Additionally, humidity levels are slightly higher in March at 83%, compared to May’s 70%, contributing to the more crisp and cool feel of early spring. For those interested in a more detailed comparison, you can check Zakopane weather in March.
In comparison to April, May experiences a noticeable increase in average temperatures, rising from 5°C (41°F) in April to 10°C (50°F) in May. While both months encounter chilly minimum temperatures, May's lowest recorded temperature is a milder -5°C (24°F), compared to April's -13°C (9°F). This improvement in temperature coincides with an increase in maximum temperatures, reaching 24°C (76°F) in May compared to 22°C (72°F) in April.
However, May also brings more precipitation, with 131 mm (5.1 in) over 20 days, compared to April's 82 mm (3.2 in) over 14 days. Humidity levels remain relatively high in both months, with April at 76% and May slightly lower at 70%. For a more detailed view, you can explore Zakopane weather in April.
May and June exhibit distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a comfortable maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of around 10°C (50°F). The month is relatively wet, recording 131 mm (5.1 in) of precipitation over 20 days, and humidity levels sit at 70%. In contrast, June warms up with temperatures starting at a minimum of 2°C (35°F) and reaching a maximum of 29°C (85°F), averaging 15°C (60°F). Precipitation slightly decreases to 126 mm (4.9 in) over 19 days, while humidity rises marginally to 71%. For a detailed look at the weather in Zakopane during June, check out this link: Zakopane weather in June.
The weather in May and July exhibits notable differences in temperature and overall climate conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -5°C (24°F) to an average of 10°C (50°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F). This month also experiences significant precipitation, averaging 131 mm (5.1 in) over 20 days, coupled with a humidity of 70%. In contrast, July sees milder temperatures, with minimums around 3°C (38°F) and an average of 16°C (60°F), reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Precipitation levels remain slightly lower at 126 mm (4.9 in) across 19 days, and humidity decreases to 67%. For more specific information about weather patterns, you can visit Zakopane weather in July.
May and August exhibit distinct weather patterns, reflecting the transition from spring to late summer. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) at night to a mild average of 10°C (50°F), peaking at 24°C (76°F) during the day. This month sees significant precipitation, with 131 mm (5.1 in) falling over 20 days, contributing to a higher humidity level of 70%.
In contrast, August offers warmer conditions, with minimum temperatures of 3°C (38°F) and an average of 16°C (61°F), reaching a hot maximum of 29°C (84°F). Although it experiences more overall precipitation at 156 mm (6.2 in) over 18 days, humidity is slightly lower at 64%. For more details about August weather, visit Zakopane weather in August.
May and September exhibit distinct weather patterns, each with its own unique characteristics. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) at night to a pleasant max of 24°C (76°F) during the day, with an average temperature of 10°C (50°F). This month also sees a higher precipitation total of 131 mm (5.1 in) over about 20 days, resulting in a humid environment with humidity levels around 70%.
In contrast, September offers a slightly warmer atmosphere, with daytime highs reaching 25°C (77°F) and nighttime lows around -1°C (30°F), giving it an average temperature of 11°C (53°F). It experiences less rainfall, totaling 107 mm (4.2 in) over just 12 days, and slightly lower humidity at 67%. For more detailed insights on September weather, you may refer to Zakopane weather in September.
May and October present distinct differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a minimum of -5°C (24°F) to a maximum of 24°C (76°F), with an average of 10°C (50°F). This month experiences considerable precipitation, totaling 131 mm (5.1 in) over 20 days, along with a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, October sees slightly cooler temperatures, with a minimum of -6°C (22°F) and a maximum of 21°C (71°F), averaging around 7°C (44°F). Precipitation decreases to 89 mm (3.5 in) over 12 days, and humidity rises to 83%. For more detailed information on October conditions, visit Zakopane weather in October.
May and November in Zakopane present contrasting weather patterns that reflect the transition between spring and late autumn. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) at night to a pleasant 24°C (76°F) during the day, with an average of around 10°C (50°F). The month experiences significant precipitation, totaling 131 mm (5.1 in) over approximately 20 days, resulting in a humidity level of 70%. In stark contrast, November sees colder conditions, with temperatures dipping even lower to a minimum of -16°C (4°F) and a daytime high of only 17°C (62°F), averaging just 2°C (36°F). Precipitation decreases significantly to 55 mm (2.2 in) across 11 days, accompanied by higher humidity at 90%. For more detailed insights, you can explore Zakopane weather in November.
May and December present stark contrasts in weather conditions. In May, temperatures range from a chilly -5°C (24°F) at night to a pleasant 24°C (76°F) during the day, with an average of 10°C (50°F). The month experiences substantial precipitation, totaling 131 mm (5.1 in) over 20 days, accompanied by a humidity level of 70%. In contrast, December is characterized by much colder temperatures, with minima dropping to -20°C (-4°F) and an average temperature of -3°C (27°F), peaking at just 9°C (48°F). This winter month sees less precipitation, accumulating 76 mm (3.0 in) over approximately 16 days, but the humidity is higher at 91%. For a detailed overview of the conditions in December, visit Zakopane weather in December.
As spring unfolds in Zakopane, May brings a delightful shift from the cold grip of winter to milder, more inviting temperatures. With an average temperature around 10°C and the potential to rise to a pleasant 24°C, May stands out compared to the harsher months preceding it. However, it's essential to note the increased rainfall, with 20 days experiencing precipitation, leading to a 70% humidity level that can make the air feel heavier. This contrast in weather patterns not only highlights the transition into summer but also sets the stage for the lush landscapes and vibrant flora that Zakopane is renowned for. To learn more about the expansive weather conditions throughout the year, check out Zakopane Climate.