Weather Lowdown
May is the first of the generally hot months in Andalucia, although the heat is rarely as intense as it is during high summer (July and August). Daytime temperatures typically reach a maximum of 27°C (80°F), and the temperature typically falls to 13°C (55°F) overnight, though it is usually warmer at night near the Mediterranean coastline. Rain is quite frequent in some Mays in the north of the region, particularly the mountainous Sierra Nevada region, but many Mays are very dry near the Mediterranean coastline.
Skies over Andalucia range from mostly clear (28%) to partly cloudy (42%), clearing up as the month wanes. On average across the region, there are 5 days with rain, with an average total of about 30-40mm per month. Chance of precipitation is roughly 28%, most likely around March 1, occurring as light or moderate rain, and occasionally as thunderstorms.
Sunshine is a very reliable feature of the weather during May, with an average of 10 hours of bright sunshine per day across the region, highest near the Mediterranean coast. Sea temperatures in May start to warm up slightly for summer--18°C (65°F).
Humidity ranges from comfortable (30%) to very humid (94%), and the air is driest around May 31. Wind speeds range from calm to moderate breeze, typically blowing in from the west.
Temperatures in May rapidly increase. Around May 1, averages are at 14°C (57°F), highs at 22°C (71°F) and lows at 8°C (46°F). By the end of the month, averages jump up to 17°C (62°F), highs to 27°C (80°F) and lows to 12°C (53°F).
Where to Stay
Hesperia Cordoba
Hesperia Cordoba is a 4-star hotel with views of the Guadalquivir river. The city's historic centre and the famous Mosque-Cathedral is only a 10-minute walk away. Their bright and modern rooms are available as standard, superior or junior suites. The rooftop terrace and outdoor pool are open from May to October. The onsite restaurant offers open-air dining on the terrace with a full menu.
Hotel Don Paula
Hotel Don Paula is located in La Juderia neighbourhood, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The main square Las Tendillas and the Mezquita Catedral are within 5 minutes' walking distance. Each one of its 10 rooms are equipped with private bathroom, TV, A/C, fridge, telephone, wifi--and some cater to solo and physically handicapped guests.
Hit the Beach
Playa de los Genoveses
Playa de los Genoveses is a perfect horseshoe bay with shallow water. It is still off the beaten track and undeveloped, which makes it a great respite from the crowds as well as the heat. You won't find sunbeds or other facilities here--that honour lies in the nearby town of San Jose.
Playa del Cristo
Playa del Cristo lies just outside of Estepona in Malaga province. It is especially catered to small children, with its soft sands and a car park.
Eating & Drinking Out
Restaurante Palangreros
Restaurante Palangreros has been serving patrons in Fuengirola for more than 20 years. Their Mediterranean cuisine is made from quality ingredients: pork sirloin skewer, fried aubergines with honey, swordfish with ratatouille, crayfish paella, and more.
Cacho & Pepe
Cacho & Pepe, Granada is a cute little Italian bistro in the heart of old Granada. Their homemade pasta and friendly service attracts hundreds of customers day after day.
Things to Do
Cruces de Mayo
May features the Cruces de Mayo (Festival of the May Crosses) in most towns and cities across Andalucia, and the most impressive of the festivals is generally considered to be located at Cordoba, in which people attempt to decorate crosses with flowers for prizes.
Cordoba Spring Feria
Cordoba also hosts the Cordoba Spring Feria at the end of May, which is similar to Seville's Feria de Abril but on a smaller scale, boasting eating, drinking and dancing.
The Old Town
Most of the amazing architectural sights of Cordoba are within easy walking distance. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the second largest in Europe and home to many charming neighbourhoods. Its cobblestone streets are full of interesting souvenirs, delicious cafes, and peaceful parkways.
Number one destination is the Mesquita, a former mosque turned cathedral. The original Islamic design is still vividly apparent in the red and white striped arches. Also of note is the massive bell tower, built to replace a minaret, and the courtyard of orange trees.
Sierra Subbetica
There is plenty of countryside to explore in the province of Cordoba including Sierra Subbetica which contains stunning limestone formations, and nearby lie the towns of Cabra and Lucena, which offer various historic centres to explore.
