Zürich
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Zürich Weather in May

With daytime temperatures of 20°C (68°F) and nighttime lows of 9°C (48°F), May in Zürich brings pleasant temperatures during the day. Do keep in mind that quite a bit of rainfall is typical. Around 138 mm (5.4 in) falls on average.

Rainfall in Zürich in May

Historically, approximately 18 days this month are expected to have rain, averaging 138 mm (5.4 in). This month brings frequent, heavy showers. Both the number of wet days and the rainfall totals are on the high side.

Temperature in Zürich in May

In May, expect pleasant temperatures in Zürich, with highs of 20°C (68°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F) at night. Conditions are often most pleasant around the middle of the day. At 9°C (48°F) overnight, it gets properly cold after dark. On the bright side, cold nights tend to make for excellent sleeping conditions.

Sunshine in Zürich in May

There are approximately 193 hours of sunshine this month, resulting in mostly clear days.

Wind Speed in Zürich in May

May sees wind speeds averaging 2 m/s (4 knots). You'll typically experience pleasant light breezes that move leaves slightly and feel refreshing. As an average, expect variation from very calm days to periods with more apparent air movement.

If your ideal day consists of dry skies and pleasant temperatures, May, June, July, August and September typically offer the best circumstances for Zürich.

Zürich Temperature in May

Min Temperature
9°C (48°F)
Max Temperature
20°C (68°F)
Chance of Rain
59%
Precipitation
138 mm (5.4 in)
Rainy days
18 days
Humidity
71%
Windspeed
2 m/s (4 knots)
Sunshine
193 hours
Percentage Sunshine
45%

Zürich Weather by Month

Pick a month to see the average temperature, rainfall and sunshine in Zürich - and find the best time to visit.

Daily Historical Temperatures

50-year average (1976-2025)

Based on our historical records, temperatures in Zürich typically rise from around 16°C (61°F) at the start of May to approximately 20°C (68°F) by the end. Nights are cool, with lows typically ranging from 7°C (45°F) to 11°C (52°F).

Average temperatures in May

Daily Historical Precipitation

50-year average (1976-2025)

Average daily rainfall for each day of the month based on long-term records.

Average precipitation in May

Historical weather records for Zürich in May

Browse day-by-day weather records for Zürich spanning 51 years. Select any month and year to see actual temperatures, rainfall, and conditions recorded on each day.

Zürich historical weather extremes in May

The extremes listed below come from historical weather data collected in Zürich from 1976 through 2026.

  • The warmest day in May was on May 26, 2026, with a maximum of 32°C (90°F).
  • The coldest May day was on May 4, 1979, with a maximum of 5°C (41°F).
  • Zürich registered its coldest May night on May 3, 1979, with temperatures dropping to -2°C (28°F).
  • Peak precipitation in May occurred on May 3, 2002, when 48 mm (1.9 in) of precipitation was measured.

Best Places in Switzerland in May

Find out more about the weather in Switzerland and which places have the best travel conditions in this month. See all of Switzerland in May →

perfect weather
pleasant
tolerable
unpleasant
poor

Perfect weather is subjective. On this map perfect weather has been defined with temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 29°C (84°F) and not too much precipitation (less than 90 mm (3.5 in) a month).

What to Wear in Zürich in May

Pleasant temperatures in May mean you can pack light but flexibel pieces. Think cotton t-shirts, comfortable walking shorts, and one warmer layer for evenings. A light sweater or denim jacket works well. Prepare for significant rainfall with proper waterproof clothing and shoes. Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. These are all good ideas with this much sunshine.

What To Do in Zürich in May

We rated the following activities from 1 (least suitable) to 10 (best) to do.

  • Swimming
    6/10
  • Cycling
    9/10
  • Walking
    9/10
  • Camping
    3/10
  • Outdoor sports
    9/10

Zürich 3-Day Forecast

More climate data for Zürich

Popular in May

Where to go in May - average daytime high across popular destinations.

Bucket list

Need travel inspiration? Check out our bucket list articles and be inspired.