Lithuania in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Lithuania
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak spring blooming season - lilacs, chestnuts, and apple trees create impressive scenery across Vilnius and countryside, particularly spectacular along the 5km (3.1 miles) Neris River path
- Extended daylight hours with sunrise at 5:30am and sunset at 8:30pm, giving you 15+ hours to explore without the summer tourist crowds that arrive in June
- Perfect temperature range 8-20°C (46-68°F) for extensive walking tours of cobblestone streets without overheating, ideal for climbing Gediminas Tower's 48m (157ft) height
- White nights season begins - late May evenings stay bright until 10pm, perfect for rooftop dining and evening photography of baroque architecture
Considerations
- Highly unpredictable weather requiring multiple outfit changes daily - morning frost followed by afternoon warmth and evening rain showers within 24 hours
- Muddy conditions in Vilnius grounds and Aukštaitija National Park hiking trails due to spring snowmelt and frequent rain
- Limited outdoor café seating availability due to changeable weather - many terraces don't fully open until June
Best Activities in May
Vilnius Old Town Walking Tours
May's mild temperatures 8-20°C (46-68°F) make this UNESCO World Heritage site perfect for extensive exploration without summer heat exhaustion. Spring blooming trees frame the baroque architecture beautifully, and 15-hour daylight allows unhurried exploration of 1,487 medieval buildings. Morning tours avoid afternoon shower probability.
Trakai Castle Lake Activities
May marks the beginning of boat season on Lake Galvė surrounding the 14th-century island castle. Water temperature reaches 12-15°C (54-59°F) making kayaking comfortable with wetsuit. Spring light creates perfect photography conditions, and you'll avoid July-August crowds. Weather can change quickly - morning departures recommended.
Curonian Spit Sand Dune Hiking
May offers ideal conditions for hiking the 52m (171ft) Parnidis Dune and exploring this UNESCO site. Temperatures perfect for the 3km (1.9 miles) coastal walk without summer's intense sun. Migrating birds peak in late May. Sand is firm from winter moisture, making hiking easier than dry summer conditions.
Lithuanian Countryside Manor Tours
Spring apple blossoms and green countryside make May perfect for visiting restored 18th-century manors. Temperatures comfortable for extensive garden walks and cycling between estates. Many manors begin outdoor events in May. Rural roads less crowded than summer months, ideal for cycling tours between properties.
Aukštaitija National Park Nature Trails
May brings wildlife activity peak - brown bears emerge, and 60+ bird species are active. Trail conditions improve after snowmelt but still muddy in places. Extended daylight allows full-day hiking on 15km (9.3 miles) of marked trails. Lakes begin warming for brave swimmers. Perfect temperature for 4-6 hour hiking days.
Vilnius Alternative District Food Tours
May marks when local restaurants begin featuring spring ingredients like wild garlic, early vegetables, and seasonal Lithuanian dishes. Užupis and Šnipiškės districts become walkable without winter weather concerns. Perfect temperature for 3-4 hour food walking tours covering 1-2km (0.6-1.2 miles) between venues.
May Events & Festivals
Vilnius Festival
Lithuania's premier classical music festival featuring international orchestras performing in historic venues including Vilnius Cathedral and courtyard concerts. May's extended daylight allows evening outdoor performances until 9pm. Features both traditional classical and contemporary Baltic composers.
Museum Night
Annual event when 40+ museums across Lithuania open until midnight with special exhibitions and €1 admission. May's mild evening weather 10-15°C (50-59°F) makes walking between venues comfortable. Extended daylight means activities continue in courtyards and outdoor spaces.