In May, nature in Germany is in full bloom. In the first half of the month, the weather is still rather changeable and cooler (ice saints); but after that, calmer and warmer weather often prevails. The night frosts are now also disappearing at higher altitudes. In some cases, the first summer days are already associated with the first heat thunderstorms. This applies above all to the foothills of the Alps, where the “Föhn”, a warm, dry wind from the Alps, is in its high season.
From April to May there is an enormous jump in temperature of almost five degrees. The mean temperature in May is 12.2 degrees. Monthly precipitation increases to 50 – 60 mm in the lowlands and more than doubles in the mountains.
Sunshine duration continues to increase in May. The average is now seven hours a day.
Average temperature in Germany in May
Highest average temperature in May: 14.8 °C, in the Upper Rhine Valley in north-western Baden-Württemberg
Mean average temperature for Germany in May: 12.2 °C
Lowest average temperature in Germany in May: -1.1 °C, in the region around the Zugspitze in southern Bavaria, on the border with Austria
Maximum temperature in Germany in May
Maximum monthly high temperature in Germany in May: 20.2 °C, on the lower reaches of the Neckar in north-western Baden-Württemberg. It gets almost as warm in May in the Danube valley in south-eastern Bavaria (on the border with Austria).
Average high temperature in May: 17.4 °C
Minimum value for the monthly maximum temperature in May: 1.6 °C, in the region around the Zugspitze in southern Bavaria, on the border with Austria
Night time temperature in Germany in May
Highest monthly night-time temperature in May: 9.5 °C, in the Upper Rhine Valley in western and north-western Baden-Württemberg.
Average night temperature for Germany in May: 7.1 °C
Lowest monthly night-time temperature in Germany in May: -3.8 °C, in the region around the Zugspitze in southern Bavaria, on the border with Austria
Precipitation in Germany in May
Highest precipitation in May: 151 mm, in the Black Forest in southwestern Baden-Württemberg
Average rain in May: 66 mm
Lowest rainfall in May: 43 mm, on the island of Rügen in northern Mecklenburg-West Pomerania
The 1st of May in Germany
May 1st, known as erster Mai, is one of the most significant public holidays celebrated during the springtime in Germany. This day has a rich historical background, and it’s celebrated as Labour Day in Germany. Throughout the years, the meaning of May Day has shifted and transformed, but it remains a day of great importance to the people of Germany.
Thanks to Berlin’s unique history, May Day events are most prominent in this vibrant city. Berlin is a city that never sleeps, where the past meets the present, and the energy is electric. The Kreuzberg neighbourhood was characterised by artist squats and a dependable punk scene before and after the fall of the Berlin Wall. In the past, squatters battled with police, leading to riots and demonstrations on May 1st, 1987.
From then on, the march in Kreuzberg was christened the Revolutionäre 1. Mai Demo (Revolutionary May 1 demo) and adopted a slogan from one of the most influential women in German history, Rosa Luxemburg. Her powerful quote, “Die Revolution ist großartig, alles andere ist Quark” (The revolution is magnificent, everything else is quark), became the mantra of the demonstrators.
Every year, demonstrations for better working conditions, wages, holidays, working hours, and workplace organisation take place throughout Kreuzberg and across Germany. It’s a day of protest, where the voice of the people is heard loud and clear. The streets are filled with activists, unionists, and ordinary citizens, marching with banners and signs, calling for social justice and equal rights.
May Day in Berlin is more than just a demonstration; it’s a celebration of the human spirit and the power of solidarity. It’s a day to honour those who fought for our rights and to remind us that the fight is far from over. It’s a day to remember the sacrifices made by those who came before us, and to recommit ourselves to the struggle for a better tomorrow.
If you happen to be in Berlin on May 1st, take the opportunity to join the march, witness the passion of the people, and be part of the change. You’ll be surrounded by the energy of the city, the music, and the spirit of resistance. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Travel Tips – Most beautiful holiday destinations in May in Germany
Mainau Island on Lake Constance
Why now? May is the ideal month for a visit to the flower island of Mainau. The flowers are now shining everywhere and everything is colourful.
There are a few tourists here before the main season, but there are still a lot fewer than in summer.
What to do on Mainau? Cycling around Lake Constance, day trips to Konstanz or Meersburg.
Hamburg in May
Why in May? The Port Birthday takes place in Hamburg in May. A whole party weekend drives many onlookers to the arrival parade of traditional ships and cruise ships.
Pellworm in May
Why in May? Experience the wind and weather of the North Sea. Here you can experience the power of nature with all its advantages and disadvantages! Before the onslaught of tourists from Pentecost, Pellworm is simply ideal for relaxing.
What to do in Pellworm Popular activities are, of course, cycling along the dyke, watching seals or taking a tour with the postman through the mud flats to the Hallig Süderoog!
Dusseldorf in May
Why in May? Do you like Japan as much as we do? Then off to Düsseldorf for Japan Day, which takes place regularly in mid-May.
The state capital of North Rhine-Westphalia also attracts with Altbier (if you like it), the Kö (not everyone’s taste), a great old town and lots of art and culture.
What to do? Explore the diversity of Japanese cuisine in over 400 Japanese restaurants. I love the food, especially ramen soups, mochis and of course sushi.
Did you know that more than 8000 Japanese live in Düsseldorf? You can also visit the Japanese Garden, learn all about the culture on Japan Day, try on a real kimono or take part in a sake tasting.
Find out here about the other monthly maximum temperatures, average temperatures, night temperatures and precipitation in Germany:
About the Author: Elle Johnson, travel writer living in Germany, an avid explorer fueled by wanderlust, uncovers Germany's hidden treasures. From mountains to luxury hotels, spontaneous trips to meticulous planning, she embraces diverse experiences. Join her in unraveling Germany's wonders and creating lifelong memories.
