Sydney edges it in May. Sydney averages 12–21°C with low crowds; Cape Town 10–21°C with moderate crowds.
By Daan · Last reviewed October 2026
Sydney and Cape Town
The verdict for May
Quiet city, Vivid begins
+Quieter city, attractive hotel rates and Vivid Sydney beginning toward the end of the month.
–Cooler evenings and shorter days.
Quieter city, attractive hotel rates and Vivid Sydney beginning toward the end of the month.
Quieter days, cooler weather
+A quieter alternative to summer.
–Less reliable outdoor weather.
May marks the transition toward Cape Town’s wetter winter season. Cooler temperatures and more changeable weather make beach trips less predictable, but it can be a good time for restaurants, museums and flexible sightseeing.
Scores and crowd levels are my own judgement; temperatures are monthly averages. Higher scores are better: quieter, cheaper and more pleasant.
Another month