Insiders Guide: Weather in Italy and Greece in May

The month of May is a great time for a trip to Europe, especially if you want to visit Italy or Greece. The busy summer crowd hasn’t arrived yet, and the weather is getting nice. Weather in Italy and Greece in May is just right for exploring these amazing countries. You can walk around ancient ruins and enjoy tasty local food. It’s a wonderful time for an incredible adventure.

Understanding the Weather in Italy and Greece in May

May brings pleasant weather to Italy and Greece as they move from spring to summer. The average temperatures are in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit (15-25 Celsius). This creates ideal conditions for sightseeing and adventures outside. The northern regions might be a bit cooler than the south. Still, you can count on sunny days and mild evenings.

Weather in Italy and Greece in May is generally pleasant, but it is important to know that there may still be some rainfall, mainly early in the month. Bring a light jacket or sweater for cool evenings, and keep an umbrella with you just in case. Now, let’s look closer at what you can expect regarding the weather in Italy and Greece in May.

Weather in Italy in May

In central Italy, May brings nice weather. This is a great time for outdoor activities. Early May is particularly good for a visit. The temperatures get warmer but there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. You should bring a light jacket for the cooler evenings, primarily up north. It’s a good time to see the hidden gems of the Italian countryside, which are in full bloom. As the month ends, you’ll have warmer days. This is perfect for beach time on the Amalfi Coast or visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes for all your sightseeing adventures.

Weather in Greece in May

Greece greets May with warm weather and open arms. The weather in Greece in May is great for seeing ancient ruins and beautiful islands. Average temperature ranges change depending on the specific location. In Athens, you can expect daytime highs of about 75-80°F (24-27°C). The evenings tend to be comfortably cool. The Greek islands enjoy even warmer days. In Crete and Rhodes, temperatures often go up to the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (mid-20s Celsius) in May. This is an ideal time for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports in the clear waters of the Aegean Sea. If you visit the Cyclades, like Mykonos and Santorini, the temperatures will be slightly cooler compared to the southern islands. Still, it’s very nice for wandering through the famous white-washed villages and watching stunning sunsets.

To learn more about how to combine Italy and Greece in the same itinerary, read our blog articles below:

How to Determine the Best Time to Visit Italy and Greece

How Much Does a 10-Day Italy and Greece Trip Cost?

Italy and Greece Itinerary for 10 Days: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Italy and Greece Honeymoon: Top Destinations and Tips

Best Destinations to Visit in Italy in May

May in Italy is an exceptional time. Spring brings bright colors along with warm temperatures. From busy cities to lovely coastal towns, there is something for everyone. You can visit the ancient ruins of Rome without the hot summer heat. You can stroll through the beautiful canals of Venice. Or you can get lost in the rolling hills of Tuscany, where wildflowers create stunning views. If you want to enjoy a slower pace, you should explore Umbria, Puglia, and Sicily. These regions have historic towns, tasty food, and real beauty. If you love art, history, or just want to enjoy the Italian sunshine, May gives you a nice mix of pleasant weather and wonderful experiences.

Rome in May

Rome in May is truly beautiful. The city comes alive with energy as spring revives its old streets. In early May, there are fewer crowds, letting you enjoy the magic of the Colosseum and Roman Forum without all the summer tourists. You can walk through the lovely Trastevere neighborhood, enjoy a gelato by the Trevi Fountain, or visit the amazing religious sites in Vatican City at a nice, slow pace. The mild weather in May is perfect for long walks, finding hidden piazzas, and eating outside. Enjoy tasty Roman dishes, like classic pasta and freshly baked pizzas, while taking in the romantic feel of the city.

Florence in May

Experience the elegance of Florence in May. This is a great time to visit, as there are fewer crowds. You can explore the Uffizi Gallery freely. Here, you can admire the amazing works by Botticelli and Michelangelo. Don’t forget to take a relaxed walk across the Ponte Vecchio. This bridge survived World War II and is now full of lovely shops and artisan workshops. In May, it’s also perfect to visit the city’s beautiful gardens. The Boboli Gardens, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, burst with color during this time. It’s a peaceful place to escape the busy city center. Make sure to climb to the top of the Duomo. The views of Florence are stunning and will stay with you long after you leave.

Venice in May

While May starts the busy season in Venice, it is still a unique time to enjoy the city’s vibe. You can explore the narrow streets and canals without big crowds yet. Take in the beauty of St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace. Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you need to walk to see everything Venice has to offer. You should also go for a gondola ride to enjoy the city’s romance from the water. In case you are looking at the bright shops by the Rialto Bridge or eating tasty seafood at a café by the water, visiting Venice in May is a trip you will not forget.

Amalfi Coast in May

The Amalfi Coast in May is a beautiful place to explore. The weather is great for beach time and visiting the lovely towns. You will enjoy the amazing coastal views and lively culture. Walk through the bright streets of Positano, where colorful houses hug the cliffs. You can also take a ferry to visit the beautiful island of Capri. Consider renting a car to drive along the winding coastal roads. You can stop at hidden beaches and delightful villages. The nice temperatures and sunny days in May make it a great time for hiking, swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, and enjoying fresh seafood dinners with a view of the sparkling water.

Whether you’re drawn to Italy’s spring countryside or its winter charm, we have an itinerary for you. Discover our Italy vacation packages now!

Best Destinations to Visit in Greece in May

Greece in May is full of ancient history and beautiful sights. The famous Acropolis in Athens and the sunny beaches of the islands are just a few of the amazing places to visit. Enjoy the lovely white-washed streets of Mykonos. Look at the stunning views from Santorini’s caldera. Explore the rich history of Crete, known as the home of Minoan civilization. If you want a quiet place, visit the islands of Paxos, Milos, and Folegandros. Here, you can relax and feel like time has stopped. If you want adventure or a peaceful getaway, Greece in May is a great time to make meaningful memories.

Here are the Best Spring Destinations to Visit in Greece!

Athens in May

Athens in May has warmer temperatures. This makes it a great time to explore the city’s historical sites without the burning summer heat. While many visitors come to this popular place, the crowds are still easy to manage. This lets you enjoy the city’s rich history more fully. You can walk through the ancient Agora, where Socrates taught. You can also climb to the top of the Acropolis for stunning views of the city. A visit to the Acropolis Museum is a must. It shows many amazing artifacts from the ancient citadel. Besides its history, Athens has a lively modern culture. You can find busy markets, local neighborhoods, and tasty food to enjoy. Here is the Ultimate Athens Travel Guide for you.

Santorini in May

Santorini in May is a wonderful time to visit. You will enjoy sunny days and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months. This is the ideal time to take in the island’s stunning beauty. You can explore the famous white villages of Oia and Fira. Wander the beautiful streets and watch the famous sunsets over the Aegean Sea. During this shoulder season, life goes at a friendly pace. You can find hidden gems and quiet beaches away from the crowd. Consider taking a boat trip to the volcanic caldera. You can also explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri or just relax by the pool with a glass of local wine. Find out Santorini’s top activities and attractions here.

Crete in May

Crete is the largest island in Greece. In May, it becomes vibrant with warm temperatures. Wildflowers bloom everywhere, creating a beautiful scene. While in Crete, you can explore Heraklion and the ruins of the Minoan civilization at the Palace of Knossos. You can hike the amazing Samaria Gorge. Or you might just want to relax on the pink sands of Elafonisi Beach. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and tasty food, Crete in May will wow you and make you want to come back for more.

Peloponnese in May

Escape to the Peloponnese in May. This region blends history and natural beauty. The weather is nice. You will enjoy warm days and cool evenings. This makes it great for outdoor activities. You can check out ancient ruins like Olympia, the home of the Olympic Games, or Mycenae, where the famous Agamemnon lived. You can hike through green hills, cycle on coastal paths, or kayak in clear waters. The Peloponnese has a slower pace than the busy islands. You can really enjoy genuine Greek culture and warm hospitality.

“Ready to plan a trip this May? Explore our amazing Greece and Italy trips to create unforgettable memories!”

Things to Do in Italy in May

May in Italy is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. You can take a beautiful hike through the colorful villages of Cinque Terre. You could also explore the rolling hills of Tuscany on a bike tour or have a picnic lunch in the vineyards. There are many ways to have an adventure. Also, no visit to Italy is complete without trying the delicious food. May is a wonderful time to taste fresh, seasonal produce. Supposing you are having gelato by the Trevi Fountain or attending a cooking class in Tuscany, you’ll enjoy the flavors of Italy.

Visit the Beaches of the Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is a beautiful place to visit. In May, the weather starts to warm up, signaling that beach season has begun. The sea might be a little too cool for swimming at the start of May. However, it gets warmer as the days go by. This change allows for nice swims in the clear blue waters. You can relax on the popular Spiaggia Grande in Positano. You can also rent a boat to find hidden beaches. If you want a slower pace, the lovely town of Atrani is a great choice for a beach day. After enjoying the sun all day, you can treat yourself to a tasty seafood dinner while looking out at the sparkling Mediterranean. This is the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of the Amalfi Coast.

Visit the Wine Regions

Discover the beautiful vineyards in Central Italy and the northern regions of Greece during May. This is a great time for wine lovers. The weather is warmer and there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. You can explore the lovely wineries in Tuscany. You should also try the tasty Greek wines in the countryside. Don’t miss the chance to sample the best wines while enjoying the green hills and the wildflowers in full bloom in these wine regions.

Things to Do in Greece in May

Greece in May invites you to enjoy the outdoors. The weather is nice, with sunny days perfect for discovering the beautiful sights and having fun. You can hike the Samaria Gorge in Crete, kayak along the Zakynthos coast, or visit ancient ruins like Delphi on a mountainside. The islands provide many chances for swimming, sunbathing, and trying water sports. You can relax and enjoy the good life, taste tasty Greek food, and take in the lively culture that fills this amazing country.

Hike the Gorges

Lace up your hiking boots and get ready for a fun adventure through the beautiful gorges of Greece. Crete has the Samaria Gorge, which is the longest gorge in Europe. It offers a tough hike that gives great rewards. You can see high cliffs, flowing waterfalls, and a variety of plants and animals. If you want an easier hike, you can check out the Vikos Gorge in mainland Greece. It is the deepest gorge in the world compared to its width. Regardless of which gorge you visit, the nice weather and sunny days in May are just right for outdoor activities.

Enjoy Greek Orthodox Easter Festivities

While Greek Orthodox Easter usually happens in April, the celebrations often carry into early May. This gives you a rare chance to see this important religious holiday. If you are in Greece during this period, join in the traditions and festivities. Feel the strong spirit during midnight services, see vibrant processions, and enjoy traditional Easter foods like tsoureki (sweet bread) and magiritsa (hearty soup). Greek Orthodox Easter is a remarkable time to explore the country’s rich culture and religious background.

Final Thoughts

The month of May is a great time to explore Italy and Greece. Weather in Italy and Greece in May has pleasant conditions that invite you to see ancient ruins, pretty villages, and beautiful coastlines. May offers a nice mix of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Assuming you want adventure, relaxation, or want to learn history and culture, May in Italy and Greece will give you an amazing travel experience.