Last updated: August 27, 2025
May in Bern, Switzerland, offers a delightful mix of mild temperatures and occasional rain, making it a fascinating month to experience. With daytime highs reaching 30°C (86°F) and cool nighttime lows dipping to -2°C (28°F), the average temperature hovers around a comfortable 13°C (56°F). Visitors should be prepared for 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation spread over 16 days, contributing to an 80% humidity level that enhances the vibrant spring atmosphere. Embrace the blossoming scenery while savoring Bern's unique charm throughout this dynamic month.
In May, Bern, Switzerland, welcomes the warmth of spring with a delightful range of temperatures. The month begins with a cool minimum of -2°C (28°F), but by mid-month, it soars to an average of 13°C (56°F), culminating in a pleasant peak of 30°C (86°F) on the warmest days. This shift from the chill of winter to the vibrancy of summer signifies a turning point, as outdoor activities bloom alongside the blossoming flora. Compared to earlier months, where temperatures struggle against frost, May stands out with its inviting climate, making it an ideal time for locals and tourists alike to explore Bern's rich culture and scenic landscapes.
May stands out in Bern, Switzerland, as the month with the highest precipitation, accumulating 126 mm (5.0 in) of rain over 16 days. This increase not only surpasses the rainfall amounts of the preceding months but also marks a significant transition into the wetter summer season. Compared to April's milder 61 mm (2.4 in) across only 10 days, May heralds the arrival of lush landscapes and vibrant greenery. The consistent rain during this month sets the stage for the warmer months ahead, showcasing Bern's dynamic climate as it shifts from the cool spring to the more temperate summer.
As spring gives way to summer, May in Bern, Switzerland, showcases a noticeable decline in humidity, dropping to 80%. This represents a clear transition from the higher humidity levels characteristic of the winter months, with January peaking at a staggering 91%. Throughout the early months of the year, humidity gradually decreases, falling to 84% in April before reaching May’s more comfortable levels. Interestingly, while June and July see a slight uptick in humidity, they remain relatively consistent at 82%, indicating a mild and pleasant, yet slightly humid, climate typical of the region. Throughout the year, Bern’s humidity dances within a range that highlights the city’s distinct seasonal changes, with May marking a refreshing point of balance before the summer months settle in.
In May, Bern, Switzerland experiences a significant spike in the UV Index, reaching a notable 8, which classifies the exposure as very high. This marks a considerable increase from the preceding months, as the burn time reduces sharply to just 15 minutes. As the season transitions towards summer, it's essential for residents and visitors alike to stay vigilant about sun safety, especially as June and July follow closely with an even higher index of 9. The trend shows a clear escalation in UV radiation, making protective measures critical during this vibrant time of year. For more detailed insights and daily updates, check out Bern UV Index.
UV Risk Categories
As spring transitions to summer, May graces Bern, Switzerland, with an impressive 370 hours of sunshine, marking a delightful peak for the season. This surge in sunlight not only highlights the lush landscapes awakening from winter but also signifies an upward trend that began with 161 hours in January and has steadily climbed. April's gentle warmth showcases a significant leap to 357 hours, setting the stage for May's radiant days. As the city basks in this abundant sunlight, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to embrace outdoor experiences, making the most of longer, brighter days before summer reaches its zenith with July’s 417 hours of sunshine. This delightful pattern of increasing daylight offers an uplifting reminder of nature's seasonal rhythms, inviting all to revel in the beauty of Bern’s springtime splendor.
In Bern, Switzerland, the likelihood of sunny weather shows some intriguing trends as the year progresses. **Starting from a modest 14% in January, the chances of sunshine gradually climb, peaking at 47% in April as spring truly sets in. However, in May, the probability dips to 33%, suggesting a more unpredictable weather pattern as early summer approaches. This fluctuation highlights how the transition from vibrant spring to the sunnier days of summer isn't always linear. As the months advance, June to August sees the likelihood of sunshine creeping back, but never quite regaining April's high. In summary, while May may not guarantee abundant sunshine, it's part of the journey toward Bern's sunnier months.
As spring transitions into summer, May in Bern, Switzerland, marks a delightful leap in daylight duration, boasting an impressive 15 hours of sunlight. This surge follows a steady increase from 8 hours in January, gradually climbing to 13 hours by April, and showcases how the days grow longer as the season warms. The trend doesn't halt with May; it remains at 15 hours through June and July, offering ample opportunity for outdoor activities and exploration. As summer fades into autumn, daylight begins to wane, dipping to 12 hours in September and further contracting until winter's return, when it drops back to 8 hours in December. This rhythmic ebb and flow of daylight not only enhances the natural beauty of Bern but also reflects the changing seasons that locals eagerly anticipate.
May in Bern, Switzerland marks a subtle yet noticeable increase in the breeze, with an average wind speed of 2.4 m/s (5 mph)—a refreshing boost compared to the consistent 2.1 m/s (5 mph) seen in the preceding months. This slight uptick heralds the transition into warmer months, as residents and visitors alike can enjoy the gentle winds that add a touch of vibrancy to outdoor activities. Interestingly, the wind speed begins a gradual decline in the summer months, reaching its lowest point in June at 1.5 m/s (3 mph), hinting at the calm days ahead. Thus, May serves as a delightful bridge, where the lively spring air invites exploration before the quieter summer settles in.
Weather in Bern varies notably across the year, with each month offering distinct climate conditions. This page compares May’s weather to other months in Bern, focusing on differences in temperature, rainfall, humidity, and UV levels.
When comparing the weather in May to that of January, stark contrasts emerge. May enjoys a much milder average temperature of 13°C (56°F), with highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F), whereas January's temperatures are significantly colder, averaging just 1°C (34°F) and peaking at a maximum of 17°C (63°F). Additionally, while May experiences 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 16 days, January has lower precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 in) spread over 12 days. The humidity in May stands at 80%, creating a warm atmosphere, while January is slightly more humid at 91%, contributing to the chilly feel. For more details on January weather, you can visit Bern weather in January.
May and February present distinctly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a chilly minimum of -2°C (28°F) to a pleasant maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month sees about 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 16 days and maintains a relatively high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, February is colder, with temperatures dipping as low as -11°C (13°F) and peaking at 18°C (65°F), averaging around 4°C (39°F). February experiences less precipitation, totaling 74 mm (2.9 in) over 11 days, and features slightly higher humidity at 89%. For more detailed insights, visit Bern weather in February.
When comparing the weather in May and March, it's clear that May generally offers milder temperatures and a wider range. In May, temperatures can dip to a minimum of -2°C (28°F) but typically average around 13°C (56°F) and can rise to as high as 30°C (86°F). This month sees higher precipitation levels at 126 mm (5.0 in) across about 16 days, and the humidity hovers around 80%.
In contrast, March experiences colder temperatures with a minimum of -13°C (8°F) and an average of 6°C (43°F), peaking at 21°C (70°F). It has less precipitation at 91 mm (3.6 in) over approximately 15 days, yet the humidity is slightly higher at 87%. For more specific details about the weather in March, you can check Bern weather in March. Overall, May is generally warmer and wetter than March, making it a more pleasant month for outdoor activities.
In comparing the weather of May and April, May typically showcases a broader range of temperatures, with a minimum of -2°C (28°F), an average of 13°C (56°F), and a maximum reaching up to 30°C (86°F). This is notably warmer than April, which has a minimum of -5°C (23°F), an average of 10°C (50°F), and a maximum of 25°C (78°F). Additionally, May experiences significantly more precipitation, totaling 126 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days, compared to April's 61 mm (2.4 in) over 10 days. The humidity levels remain quite high in both months, with May at 80% and April at 84%. For a more detailed look at weather conditions in April, you can check Bern weather in April.
In comparing the weather of May and June, we observe a notable shift in temperatures and precipitation patterns. May experiences a broader temperature range, with minimums plunging to -2°C (28°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F), averaging around 13°C (56°F). This month also sees substantial rainfall, with 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 16 days. Conversely, June brings a milder climate, where temperatures start at a minimum of 6°C (42°F) and can rise to a maximum of 34°C (94°F), averaging 18°C (65°F). Rainfall decreases slightly to 93 mm (3.7 in) over 15 days, and humidity remains high at 82%. For more detailed information, you can visit Bern weather in June.
May and July exhibit notable differences in weather patterns. In May, temperatures can range from a chilly -2°C (28°F) to a warm 30°C (86°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). It is a relatively wet month, experiencing 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 16 days and maintaining a humidity level of 80%. In contrast, July offers milder minimum temperatures starting at 9°C (49°F) and reaching heating peaks with averages around 20°C (68°F) and maximums of 36°C (97°F). While July is also prone to rain, it tends to receive slightly less precipitation at 104 mm (4.1 in) over 14 days and a slightly higher humidity level of 82%. For more specific details on July weather, you can visit Bern weather in July.
May and August present contrasting weather patterns. In May, temperatures fluctuate between a chilly minimum of -2°C (28°F) and a warm maximum of 30°C (86°F), with an average of 13°C (56°F). The month is relatively wet, receiving 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over 16 days and maintaining a high humidity level of 80%. In contrast, August enjoys milder temperatures, ranging from a minimum of 8°C (47°F) to a maximum of 34°C (93°F), with an average of 19°C (67°F). Precipitation decreases to 98 mm (3.8 in) over 12 days, and humidity drops slightly to 77%. For more detailed information about August weather, you can check Bern weather in August.
May and September exhibit notable differences in weather conditions. May experiences a wider temperature range, with minimums dropping to -2°C (28°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while September's temperatures are slightly milder, ranging from a minimum of 3°C (38°F) to a maximum of 29°C (84°F). In terms of precipitation, May is wetter, recording 126 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days compared to September's 61 mm (2.4 in) across 11 days. Humidity remains relatively similar in both months, with May at 80% and September at 81%. For more insights into September weather, check out Bern weather in September.
In May, temperatures can range significantly, with minimums near -2°C (28°F) and maximums reaching up to 30°C (86°F), resulting in an average temperature of 13°C (56°F). The month sees about 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation spread over 16 days, and the humidity level is around 80%. In contrast, October offers cooler temperatures, with minimums still at -2°C (29°F) but maximums capped at 23°C (73°F) and an average of 11°C (51°F). Additionally, October experiences less rainfall, totaling approximately 95 mm (3.7 in) over 13 days, with humidity slightly higher at 89%. For a more detailed understanding of what to expect, check out Bern weather in October.
May and November present distinctly different weather patterns in Bern. May typically experiences a wider temperature range, with averages around 13°C (56°F) and highs reaching up to 30°C (86°F), while November sees cooler temperatures with an average of about 5°C (41°F) and a maximum of 20°C (69°F). Precipitation is more abundant in May, totaling 126 mm (5.0 in) over 16 days, compared to November's 72 mm (2.8 in) across 12 days. Additionally, humidity levels are notably high in both months, with November being slightly more humid at 89% compared to May’s 80%. For a detailed overview of the weather during this time, check out Bern weather in November.
May and December present strikingly different weather patterns. In May, temperatures range from a low of -2°C (28°F) to a high of 30°C (86°F), offering a pleasant average of 13°C (56°F). The month sees about 126 mm (5.0 in) of precipitation over approximately 16 days, with humidity at 80%. In contrast, December is much colder, with temperatures ranging from -6°C (21°F) to a maximum of 14°C (57°F) and an average of only 2°C (37°F). While precipitation is slightly lower at 125 mm (4.9 in) over 18 days, humidity rises to 91%, creating a damp, wintry atmosphere. For more details on December weather, you can refer to Bern weather in December.
As May arrives in Bern, the city experiences a noticeable shift in weather, presenting a vibrant contrast to the preceding months. Temperatures begin to soar, peaking at a warm 30°C, while the average settles comfortably around 13°C, inviting both locals and visitors to enjoy the blooming landscapes. However, prepare for a bit of unpredictability, as May also sees frequent precipitation, with about 16 rainy days, making it one of the wetter months. The humidity lingers at 80%, adding a refreshing but sometimes muggy touch to the air. Embrace the transition this month brings, making it a unique time to explore the beauty of Bern. For more insights into the climate, visit Bern Climate.