Latvia in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Riga & Gulf Coast (Rīgas jūras līcis and Jūrmala)

May: The calendar warmth arrives and Jāņi’s prelude shows in longer daylight; daytime temperatures often reach 12-18°C, making beach walks and Riga’s outdoor cafés enjoyable. Migratory birds are at their busiest in coastal wetlands; this is a good month for early ferry trips and for seeing the seaside towns wake up from winter. Expect busier weekends as locals head to the coast; lighter clothing with a windproof layer is ideal for the changeable Atlantic-influenced weather.

Kurzeme & West Coast (Liepāja, Ventspils, Cape Kolka and Kuldīga)

May: Warming to 12-18°C, May brings long daylight and wildflowers on the dunes; vacationers start booking weekends at coastal resorts. Liepāja’s music and cultural scene winds up for summer; expect more frequent ferry and boat tours along the coast. The sea is still cool, so swimmers tend to be locals; a light sweater and rain shell are useful for evening bonfires or seaside dinners.

Vidzeme Uplands & Gauja Valley (Sigulda, Cēsis, Valmiera)

May: Warmth arrives and flowers open across meadows; daytime highs often sit in the 12-18°C range and forest trails are comfortable for multi-day hiking. The Gauja’s rapids swell and paddling becomes attractive; guided canoe trips start to operate regularly. Expect weekends to fill with local families, so book accommodation for popular base towns early and bring insect repellent for riverside evenings.

Zemgale Plains & Southern Latvia (Jelgava, Bauska, Rundāle)

May: Warmer weather (12-18°C) and long daylight make May a good month for cycling between small towns and visiting castles and parks. Flowering meadows, active farm life and open-air markets make for pleasant regional touring; the countryside is ideal for slow travel. Insect repellent and sun protection become useful, and book stays near popular sites like Rundāle in advance for weekend visits.

Latgale & Eastern Lakes (Daugavpils, Rēzekne, Lake Rāzna, Lubāns)

May: Spring fully arrives with daytime highs climbing to 12-18°C and lakeshores green with new growth; canoe trips and fishing become attractive activities. Mosquitoes and midges start to appear around the water, especially at dusk, so insect repellent is essential. Cultural festivals revive and rural homestays open for the summer; book accommodation in advance for holiday weekends and pack light layers plus bug protection.