Introduction

Are you going to Budapest in the month of May? Great choice! With nice weather in May, it’s a great time of year to explore Budapest. Yet, it’s wise to come prepared for all the different conditions you may experience. With this guide, you’ll learn how to pack so that your stay in Budapest is comfortable, enjoyable and lets you look your best.

Dressing well matters whether you’re sightseeing, using the spa or eating in one of the city’s trendy locations. For this reason, keep reading to find out the best ways to dress for Budapest’s temperatures, traditions and attractions in May.

Budapest’s weather in May

Between the cool air and sunshine, May beats two seasons in Budapest: spring and summer. Throughout the month, temperatures slowly move upwards toward summer levels. That time of year, a normal day is comfortably between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius (59 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit).

Still, it’s worth remembering that May brings some unpredictable weather to Budapest. Mild weather lets you enjoy the outdoors in spring, although you should be well-prepared for weather that can be cool or wet. The city usually brings us mild sunshine, sporadic showers and pleasant breezes.

So, it’s helpful to pack a few layers, since you might want to change your outfit according to temperatures during the day. The flexibility of this outfit means you’ll be at ease during walks, visits to outdoor markets and relaxing in a warm café.

What You Should Wear During the Day

When it’s daytime and the weather is warm, experts suggest wearing items that are breathable and light. You should stick with cotton and linen if you want to stay cool during the summer.

Wear loose-fitting cotton shirts or blouses that are light and bright so they will deflect sunlight. You can wear these with shorts, skirts or easy-to-move trousers to enjoy your travels.

Advice on what to wear during the day:

• It’s good to bring a piece of clothing to wear over what you’re already wearing, so you stay warm if temperatures fall or if shade from trees or buildings creates a chill.
• You’ll need shoes that are comfortable for walking, since discovering Budapest on foot is the best way. Sneakers with style or soft sandals will care for your feet after many hours of walking.
• Don’t forget to cover yourself from UV rays with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen if you are outdoors a lot.

What the Evening Events Require

When the sun goes down, it often feels a little cooler in Budapest than at the height of the day. Because of this, you should have a couple of long-sleeved shirts, blouses or light sweaters handy. You can rely on these to make cool evenings during dinner outdoors or for enjoying the energy of Budapest’s nightlife more comfortable.

It’s good to pack a light jacket or a modern cardigan for your flight. Not only will they keep you warm, but they also enhance your clothes and help you handle day-to-night occasions easily.

Information about choosing evening attire:

• Take some jeans or trousers so you can enjoy evenings out in restaurants or at concerts or the theater.
• Putting on a scarf or shawl will keep you comfortable and improve your outfit with the added pop of a different color or print.
• If you want to stay comfortable and enjoy style, close-toe or sandal shoes that wrap all the way around the back are the best option for exploring at night in crowded places.

How to Dress for Sightseeing

Being comfortable is really what matters, since you’ll likely be seeing the Parliament, Buda Castle and enjoying the thermal baths in Budapest.

Since you’ll likely walk a lot, it’s best to choose shoes that have plenty of cushioning or strong support. Clothing that is both lightweight and allows air to pass through will help you remain comfortable wherever you go.

Sightseeing tips:

• It’s a good idea to dress in layers, because the air conditioning or heating in indoor attractions might require you to take clothes on or off.
• A small backpack or a crossbody bag will help you hold a map, a bottle of water, your camera and an umbrella or raincoat.
• You’ll feel both more comfortable and cooler in loose clothing as you handle the uneven streets and use system transportation.

Other Considerations

Apart from your comfort, you should think about local culture when deciding on what to wear. 

Budapest is famous for how elegant and well put together its fashion is. Even when they are not dressing formally, local people would be smartly dressed, as the city combines old and new attractions.

If you want to join in with the stylish group, pack a handful of special outfits for going out to restaurants or parties. When you choose a proper dress, blazer or clean shoes, you will feel at ease and blend in with the crowd.

Appearing in clothing that matches local customs makes people welcome you and makes travel more enjoyable for you.

Conclusion

Use the recommendations in this guide to get ready for your May trip to Budapest. Always look at the forecast before you go and bring clothes that keep you comfortable and busy yourself with lots of layers.

You should be comfortable, but remember to give your outfits a bit of style to show you appreciate the stylish environment and exciting culture in Budapest. Selecting proper outfits will help you make the most of your stay, whether you’re wandering through Budapest’s architecture, trying the hot water pools or enjoying the Hungarian dishes.

Have a great time while you explore Budapest.

Please note that this post is meant solely for general information and the information here might not work in all situations. Checking the weather local forecast and changing your clothes accordingly is always a good idea.