Syria in May: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect
Climate Map for May
Average temperature across Syria in May.
City Weather in May
| City | High | Low | Rain | UV | Feels |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aleppo | 28° | 15° | 17 mm | very high | Mild |
| Damascus | 28° | 13° | 9 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Homs | 28° | 15° | 19 mm | extreme | Mild |
| Latakia | 26° | 16° | 26 mm | very high | Mild |
| Raqqa | 32° | 17° | 13 mm | very high | Warm |
| Hama | 29° | 16° | 14 mm | very high | Mild |
| Tartus | 27° | 17° | 18 mm | extreme | Mild |
High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.
Coastal Plain (Latakia & Tartus)
Long, humid days settle in by May, bringing temperatures into the low to mid-twenties along Latakia’s shores and a definite sea-swept stickiness at night. This is the month when resorts prepare for the summer season: cafés and small hotels reopen and coastal promenades become livelier; expect more domestic visitors at weekends. Mosquitoes start to appear in sheltered spots, so insect repellent and light, breathable clothing are useful.
Coastal Mountains (Jabal al-Nusayriyah / Slinfah & resorts)
May is one of the best months up high: mild, dry days and lush slopes around Slinfah and nearby villages make hiking delightful, with temperatures typically in the high teens. Mountain roads and picnic spots come alive as Syrians head to escape the lowland heat, so expect more traffic on weekends. Bring layered clothing for cool mornings and longer-sleeve shirts for evenings when temperatures drop noticeably.
Northwest & Aleppo Region (Aleppo, Idlib, Afrin)
May usually turns hot and dry, with Aleppo and the plains heating up markedly and humidity staying low - an efficient but intense heat that dries the landscape. Long daytrips to sites around Afrin or to nearby ruins are best done in the morning; afternoons are suited to shaded cafés or siesta-style breaks. Sun protection, a hat and plenty of water are essential because temperatures climb quickly after sunrise.
Damascus & Anti-Lebanon Foothills (Damascus, Ghouta, Qasioun, Mount Hermon foothills)
May brings warm, dry days and comfortable evenings in Damascus as spring transitions to summer; daytime temperatures commonly reach the low to mid-twenties. The city’s terraces and cafés become lively and excursions into nearby Anti-Lebanon foothills are pleasant before the full summer heat. Pack sun protection and light clothing for daytime with a light layer for cooler nights.
Euphrates Valley & Plains (Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, Euphrates corridor)
May brings serious warming along the plains as the season shifts toward full summer: temperatures climb noticeably and the landscape dries from the river outward. It’s a good month for early-morning exploration of ruins along the Euphrates before the sun ascends; afternoons are best spent in shade. Hydration and sun protection are critical, and travelers should watch for sudden dust gusts brought by warm desert air.
Syrian Desert / Palmyra and the Badia (Tadmor, Palmyra, eastern steppe)
May is decisively hot with long, dry days and strong sun; early starts are essential for Palmyra and surrounding ruins before the heat builds. Temperatures climb into the high twenties or low thirties, and dry air can be deceptive - hydration is critical. Expect fewer visitors than spring peaks, and make sure vehicles carry ample water and fuel for remote desert routes.