What's the weather like in May in Lake Garda?
In May, as the temperature in Lake Garda, northern Italy, really begins to warm up it becomes a popular tourist destination for both sightseeing and a full range of outdoor activities.
Temperature
With average monthly temperatures of 17ºC (63ºF) the area's outdoor sports like hiking, mountain biking, sailing and windsurfing really begin to take off for the summer season. Those looking for an adventure holiday at the lake, or even warm weather to explore the Roman ruins and beautiful lake-side villages and towns, can expect average highs at this time of year of 22ºC (71.6ºF) and lows of a mild 12ºC (54ºF). The temperatures tends to climb throughout the month with the highest average daily temperatures being recorded towards the end of the month, from around the 21st onwards, making this an ideal time to travel. In fact, this month the temperature is rising across northern Italy with Milan experiencing average temperatures of 15ºC (59ºF).
Rainfall
Outdoor activities are also encouraged at the lake this month by the fact that, on average, it experiences 11 hours of daily sunshine at this time of year with tourists having a 39% chance of experiencing a sunny day. This month also sees a slight drop in the average rainfall from the previous month with only 75mm of rain over 13 days, this will increase again to 85mm in June. The chance of experiencing a rainy day is only 34% and, at this time of year, the bonus is that if it's not raining it's likely to be sunny as there's only a 7% chance of a cloudy day.
Wind
The wind this month remains light with only a 5% chance of a windy day, although local winds in certain areas of the lake mean that windsurfing and sailing are popular sports here.
Lake Garda Hotels for May
Aktivhotel Santalucia
If you want to take advantage of the increased temperatures this month to try out some of the lake's great outdoor activities including hiking, sailing, surfing and mountain biking, Aktivhotel Santalucia at Torbole in the mountainous north of the lake is a great mid-price option. Describing itself as a 'sports hotel' it offers guests a range of activity packages.
Du Lac Et Du Parc Grand Resort
A great option for those looking for a wellbeing break is the Du Lac Et Du Parc Grand Resort in the stunning mountainous landscape of Riva del Garda at the northern tip of the lake. With two swimming pools, one outdoor and one in-door (just in case you encounter one of those rainy days), a full spa, fitness centre and mountain bike rentals, there's plenty to keep you active here. There's also a large terrace with stunning views for those who prefer to take it easy.
Villa Cortine Palace
Explore the beautiful historic town of Sirmione with its ancient Roman ruin from the luxury of the Villa Cortine Palace. Within walking distance of the roman site Catullus Villa, this grand hotel has extensive gardens littered with marble statues, it's own private pier on the lake for the warmest of the month's days when you might want to sunbathe or swim, and a secluded outdoor pool and sun terrace.
Lake Garda Beaches in May
For those who like to people watch in the bustling heart of Garda to the south east is a popular pebble beach. Great for a stroll but water shoes are recommended if you want to swim as it can get slippery.
In the north Riva del Garda has a small shingle beach surrounded by beautiful mountains which gets busy in the summer months but can be a great place at this time of year for a quiet picnic and a leisurely swim if the weather is warm enough.
Bars and Restaurants
Ristorante L'Incontro
Experience the nightlife of Sirmione at Ristorante L'Incontro, a friendly local restaurant serving traditional fresh Italian fare right at the heart of this historic town. The beautiful setting is enhanced by the friendly service and great food. Well worth a visit.
Rivabar
After a day on the lake or exploring the beautiful area around Riva Del Garda at the northern tip of the lake, the Rivabar is a great place to visit for a lively cocktail or a cold beer. The cocktail list is immense and the bar staff always up for a challenge if there's anything you want not on the list. Great music, great atmosphere and a really fun crowd made up of locals and tourists.
Things to do in Lake Garda in May
Busatte Adventure
If you're going to the lake in May looking for adventure then the Busatte Adventure might be just what you're looking for. A tree-climbing 'Go-Ape-style' adventure park in Torbole in the north, there are a series of different climbs of different difficulty depending on just how brave you are a fun-filled, family activity.
Biking & Hiking
This is the perfect month at the lake for biking and hiking before the temperature gets too high and makes the going much harder. Explore the Old Ponale Road Path literally cut into the rock of the mountainous shoreline from Riva del Garda by foot or by mountain bike to experience some of the lake's most beautiful vistas.
