Is Barcelona Rainy in May?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona in May, one of the questions that might be on your mind is whether or not it’s likely to rain. The answer is a little bit complicated, so let’s break it down.

Barcelona’s Climate

First things first: Barcelona has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it tends to be mild and rainy in the winter months, and hot and dry in the summer months. May falls right in the middle of springtime, which is generally considered one of the best times to visit Barcelona.

Rainfall in May

Now, let’s talk about rainfall specifically. On average, Barcelona gets about 60mm of rainfall in May, spread out over about 10 days. This might not sound like a lot, but it’s worth noting that there can be some pretty heavy downpours during those 10 days.

What to Pack

So what should you pack if you’re visiting Barcelona in May? The key is to be prepared for both rain and sunshine.

You’ll want to bring comfortable walking shoes that can handle wet pavement, as well as a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella that you can easily carry with you during the day. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and sunglasses for when the sun does come out.

What to Do If It Rains

Of course, even with the best planning, there may be some days when it just pours all day long. But don’t worry – there are still plenty of things to do in Barcelona even when it’s raining. Some ideas include:

  • Visit one of Barcelona’s many museums or art galleries (the Picasso Museum is particularly popular)
  • Explore La Boqueria market and sample some delicious local food
  • Take a wine tour or cooking class
  • Check out some of Barcelona’s indoor shopping centers, like El Corte Inglés or Maremagnum

Conclusion

So, is Barcelona rainy in May? The answer is yes, but it’s not necessarily a bad thing. With a little bit of preparation and an open mind, you can still have an amazing time in Barcelona even if the weather doesn’t quite cooperate.