What to pack for Helsinki in May
- long sleeves and a warm layer
- a medium jacket
- a compact umbrella or rain shell — rain is frequent
Humidity averages 69%; max daily wind around 22 km/h.
How May compares
Best months in Helsinki: June. See the full best time to visit Helsinki guide.
Helsinki in May: the details
In May, Helsinki sees average daytime highs of 13°C (56°F) and overnight lows of 6°C (42°F). Rainfall totals roughly 56 mm across 9.7 rainy days, and the sun shines about 12.5 hours per day with 16.9 hours of daylight mid-month. Relative humidity averages 69%.
In context: May is the 5th-warmest month and the 9th-wettest in Helsinki. The sunniest month is June (15.4 h/day).
| Metric | May average |
|---|---|
| Daytime high | 13°C / 56°F |
| Overnight low | 6°C / 42°F |
| Rainfall | 56 mm over 9.7 rainy days |
| Sunshine | 12.5 h/day (16.9 h daylight) |
| Humidity | 69% |
| Travel score | 6.8 / 10 |
These figures are climate normals computed from the ERA5 weather reanalysis (2019–2024) for Helsinki, Finland (60.17, 24.94) — see our methodology. Actual conditions vary year to year.
Not set on Helsinki? Browse the best places to visit in May ranked by travel score.
Frequently asked questions
How hot is Helsinki in May?
Daytime highs in Helsinki in May average 13°C (56°F); nights drop to about 6°C.
Does it rain in Helsinki in May?
Expect around 9.7 rainy days and 56 mm of rainfall in May.
Is May a good time to visit Helsinki?
May is a fair shoulder-season month in Helsinki — decent conditions with some trade-offs. Overall travel score: 6.8/10. The best months are June.
Also good in May, near Helsinki
Where should you go next month?
Get one email a month with the destinations at their seasonal best. Double opt-in, unsubscribe anytime.