When you travel to Budapest in May, you will find that this historic city that hugs the banks of the famous Danube is a welcoming place with a pleasant climate and still relatively free from the tourist crowds that summer brings. While it may rain when you’re there, it won’t stop you from getting out and enjoying the views.
It’s a great time to enjoy Budapest’s famous mineral baths or thermal pools, in colder climates as they can be as hot as 100 degrees Fahrenheit, not too attractive in the heat of summer. In May, lines for attractions will be shorter and reservations at popular restaurants are not essential. An added bonus: hotel rooms are slightly less expensive than during peak summer season.
Budapest weather in May
Evening highs in Budapest in May average between 67 degrees and 74 degrees Fahrenheit, increasing as the month progresses. Nighttime temperatures remain cold, averaging 47 to 56 degrees. These temperatures are a bit cooler than in a large swath of places in the US and will feel more like April weather to many Americans. These are perfect temperatures for sightseeing – not too hot, not too cold, and the days get longer.
On the other hand, it is cloudy most of the time, with the possibility of rain touching the highest levels of the year. The closer you get to May, the greater the chances of significant rain.
What to pack
The great possibility of rain during the month of May in Budapest is the most important thing to consider when packing. A short-length trench coat, preferably with a hood, is a must. A longer one works too, but takes up twice the space in your bag. Or wear a rain poncho. Bring an umbrella for everyone who travels; with the likely amount of rain as you walk through the city that you don’t want to share. The trench coat can double as a light jacket on colder days and at night.
Otherwise, wear jeans, long-sleeved blouses or shirts, light knitted sweaters, and a cardigan or two or a light jacket or jacket. The point is to be able to layer clothing as needed depending on the temperature. It’s still quite cold during the day, so if you like, wear closed-toe shoes that are supportive enough for walking and a nicer pair of shoes for a night out.
May events in Budapest
- May 1st, May 1, is a national holiday in Hungary. This day celebrates spring with concerts and other outdoor events in the main parks. Expect most businesses to close in honor of the holidays. While businesses will be closed, museums and baths in Budapest will be open.
- The Gourmet Food Festival will take place May 16-19, 2019 at Millenaris Park. It is an opportunity to taste local cheeses, taste wines and beers, and savor the work of famous chefs.
- The Rosalia Festival takes over City Park from May 31 to June 2, 2019, with tastings (in a crystal keepsake glass) of new rosé and sparkling wines along with live musical entertainment.
- The Belgian Beer Festival, held annually in mid-May, is an opportunity to sample hundreds of Belgian beers from many breweries.
- The Budapest Folk Fest, held from May 22 to 25, 2019, is an opportunity to learn about Hungarian folk heritage through traditional music and dance performances.
- Budapest 100 is a celebration of the art and architecture of Budapest buildings that are over 100 years old. It is an opportunity to see behind the scenes more than 50 historical buildings that include offices, businesses and homes. The tours take place on May 5 and 5, 2019.
- On May 20 and 21, 2019, more than 100 museums are represented in the garden of the Hungarian National Museum for the Museum Festival. Museums and galleries will present their offerings at the festival and visitors can take virtual tours of each. There is live music, theater and dance entertainment, as well as activities for children during the days of the event that takes place from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- May Concerts take place at venues throughout the city during the month. There are folk concerts, gypsy concerts, concerts in a beautiful basilica, classical music in a concert hall, and even folk dance demonstrations.
