Weather in Corfu in May
Expect warm, fairly changeable weather in Corfu in May, late spring. Temperatures typically peak at around 24°C / 76°F in the afternoon and fall to about 14°C / 58°F at night. Sea temperatures average around 19°C / 66°F, bracing, and too cool for many swimmers. There are typically 4 rainy days, with around 34 mm of rain in total. The landscape is lush and green after the winter rains, and showers are still fairly common. Corfu is one of the wettest parts of Greece, which is exactly why it's so green, with olive groves and cypress trees everywhere. Daylight lasts about 14½ hours, leaving long, light evenings. Pack summer clothes, a light layer for the evenings and good sun protection. The weather can change from one day to the next, so check the forecast before planning a long day out. It's pleasant to be outside from morning to evening, with sun protection at midday.
Swimming in Corfu in May
The sea around Corfu averages about 19°C / 66°F in May, refreshing rather than warm. Save swimming plans for July, August and September, when the water is much warmer. Good spots include Paleokastritsa and Glyfada. Some beach bars and sunbed services are open, but not all, so bring your own shade. A short wetsuit helps if you feel the cold.
Crowds & Prices in Corfu in May
Crowds in Corfu are moderate in May, with plenty of space at the main sights and beaches. You'll find better deals on rooms and car hire than in July and August. On cruise-ship days, the main sights are busiest between late morning and mid-afternoon. The crowds concentrate at Corfu Old Town on cruise-ship days, so for a calmer experience, explore the villages and coves of the northwest. You can often book at short notice, except around holidays.
What's Open in Corfu in May
Ferry services between Igoumenitsa and Corfu are building up in May. The airport has direct flights from across Europe in the season, as well as flights from Athens. By May, almost everything has reopened for the season. Museums and sites are open on extended summer hours. Most sites close on Easter Sunday and 1 May. Opening hours are long, with many tavernas serving until late.
Festivals & Holidays in Corfu in May
Greek Easter sometimes falls in early May, and Whit Monday, fifty days later, is another long weekend. 1 May is a public holiday, when many Greeks head out to the countryside and make wreaths of spring flowers. In Corfu, these occasions are celebrated much as they are across the rest of Greece. Weekends bring family outings and long lunches, and the evenings grow livelier as the days lengthen.
Is May a Good Time to Visit Corfu?
Yes, May is a good month for Corfu, especially for walkers and sightseers. In numbers: highs of about 24°C / 76°F, lows of 14°C / 58°F and rain on around 4 days in a typical May. The countryside is at its best and it's comfortably warm, but the sea is still refreshing rather than warm. It suits active travelers and anyone avoiding the peak season. For warmer water with fewer crowds, June, September or October would be the better bet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Corfu in May?
Through May, sunset in Corfu moves from around 8:35 pm to around 9:00 pm in Greek local time, as the evenings get longer. In mid-May, expect it at around 8:45 pm. The Kaiser's Throne viewpoint above Pelekas is a favorite on the west side of the island.
Is it hot in Corfu in May?
Not yet. May is warm and increasingly sunny, and rain becomes rare by the end of the month. It's comfortable for walking and sightseeing, although evenings can still be cool, so bring a light layer.
Can I visit Corfu Old Town in May?
Yes, and May is a lovely time to do it. Corfu Old Town is lively without the peak-season crowds, and it's comfortable to walk around during the day. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Do I need a car on Corfu in May?
It's the easiest way to get around. Corfu is spread out, and buses in May are less frequent than in summer, so a car lets you explore villages and beaches at your own pace.
Is May or June better for visiting Corfu?
It depends on what you want. June is warmer, the sea is better for swimming and everything is open, but crowds and prices start to climb. May is quieter, greener and cheaper, with pleasant walking weather, though the sea is still cool for many swimmers.
Corfu Weather by Month
