May · Greece
Best time to visit Athens in May Weather, crowds & prices
Weather in Athens in May
Average temperature 20°C, 20 mm of rain, about 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 63% humidity — based on the five most recent complete years of ERA5 data (2021–2025).
May score
10.0/10
Ranked #1 of 12 months
- Avg temp
- 20°C
- Rainfall
- 20 mm
- Humidity
- 63%
- Days with 6h+ sun
- 31
- Crowd Density
- Moderate Crowds
- Average Expenses
- $$$ · Peak Season Rates ($$$)
May in Athens scores 10.0/10 for sightseeing and cultural travel - the single best month of the year. Expect around 20°C, 20 mm of rain, and roughly 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine this month.
Athens shines Apr–Jun: cool 18–25°C mornings on the Acropolis, light crowds before 9am, taverna evenings in Plaka.
May in Athens tops the year's climate scores
At 20°C (68°F) this is comfortable city weather in May, with sightseeing easiest before lunch and after the afternoon peak.
With around 20 mm of rain, any showers tend to pass through rather than settle in; about 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine and 14.1 hours of daylight fill the rest.
On our climate-comfort scale this is the top-ranked month of the year for Athens at 10/10 — the reference point every other month on this page is measured against.
Pack light clothing, a hat and real sun protection.
Expect peak pricing, and crowds are moderate. You are paying the year's highest rates for the year's best conditions — book early or shift a few weeks either side.
Frequently asked
- What is the weather like in Athens in May?
- In May, Athens averages 20°C, 20 mm of rain, and about 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine. Its climate-comfort score is 10.0/10.
- Is May a good time to visit Athens?
- May earns a 10.0/10 climate-comfort score. Use the year-round chart to weigh the weather against your budget and crowd preferences.
- How much does it rain in Athens in May?
- Expect about 20 mm of rain in May. Average humidity is 63% and there are about 31 days with 6+ hours of sunshine.
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