May is one of the most rewarding months to travel. Across much of Europe, the Mediterranean, and North Africa, it’s late spring, with long days, blooming landscapes, and comfortable temperatures before the peak summer heat and crowds. At the same time, it’s the start of the dry season in places like Bali, Fiji, Peru, and southern Africa. This guide highlights 21 of the best places to visit in May, with what to expect from the weather, crowds, and prices in each, including a few destinations where May brings great deals in exchange for some rain.
Best Places to Visit in May at a Glance
| Destination | May Temps | Season & Crowds | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuscany, Italy | 11–24°C (52–75°F) | Busy in Florence, calmer in the countryside | Wine, villages, cycling |
| Greek Islands | 17–25°C (63–77°F) | Early season, quieter | Island hopping |
| Andalusia, Spain | 15–28°C (59–82°F) | Busy during festivals | Festivals, Moorish history |
| Scottish Highlands | 5–15°C (41–59°F) | Moderate | Hiking, castles |
| Amsterdam, Netherlands | 9–17°C (48–63°F) | Busy | Museums, canals |
| Paris, France | 11–20°C (52–68°F) | Busy | Gardens, culture |
| Bali, Indonesia | 24–31°C (75–88°F) | Dry season, before the summer peak | Beaches, rice terraces |
| Maldives | 26–31°C (79–88°F) | Start of wet season, lower prices | Resort deals |
| Costa Rica (Pacific) | 24–32°C (75–90°F) | Start of green season, quieter | Wildlife, surfing |
| Fiji | 22–29°C (72–84°F) | Start of dry season | Beaches, diving |
| Algarve, Portugal | 15–24°C (59–75°F) | Pre-summer, good value | Coastal walks, sea caves |
| Machu Picchu, Peru | 7–21°C (45–70°F) | Start of dry season, getting busier | Trekking, Inca history |
| Banff, Canada | 1–15°C (34–59°F) | Quiet shoulder season | Wildlife, scenic drives |
| Kruger NP, South Africa | 10–26°C (50–79°F) | Early dry season | Safari |
| South Island, New Zealand | 3–12°C (37–54°F) | Late autumn, quiet | Fjords, scenic drives |
| Galápagos, Ecuador | 22–29°C (72–84°F) | Warm-to-cool season transition | Wildlife, snorkeling |
| Kyoto, Japan | 14–25°C (57–77°F) | Very busy during Golden Week | Temples, gardens |
| Marrakesh, Morocco | 15–30°C (59–86°F) | Popular, before summer heat | Souks, riads |
| Oaxaca, Mexico | 14–31°C (57–88°F) | Hot, quiet low season | Food, mezcal, ruins |
| Petra, Jordan | 15–30°C (59–86°F) | Spring peak season | Ancient history |
| Istanbul, Turkey | 13–22°C (55–72°F) | Moderate | History, food, the Bosphorus |
Temperatures are approximate May averages (daily lows to highs). Always check the forecast and local holiday dates for your trip.
Why May Is a Smart Month for Global Travel
In much of the northern hemisphere, May is a sweet spot between spring and summer. Days are long and the weather is usually comfortable for sightseeing, while hotel rates and flights are often lower than in July and August. In the southern hemisphere, May brings the start of the dry season to places like Peru, Fiji, and southern Africa.
That said, May isn’t quiet everywhere. Big-name cities like Paris, Florence, and Kyoto are busy in spring, especially around public holidays, and a few tropical destinations, such as Costa Rica and the Maldives, are entering their rainy season. That can mean fewer crowds and lower prices, but also some wet afternoons. Each destination below includes what to expect so you can choose the right trade-off.
21 Best Places to Visit in May (Categorized by Vibe)
The European Spring Dream
Europe comes to life in May, with blooming landscapes, long evenings, and comfortable temperatures before the summer heat. These destinations offer a perfect blend of culture, natural beauty, and spring weather.
1. Tuscany, Italy
Florence
Tuscany in Italy is a quintessential spring destination, with rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming villages. In May, the countryside comes alive with wildflowers and poppies, and the temperatures are ideal for cycling through the hills or exploring Florence, Siena, and Pisa on foot.
Greve in Chianti
Temperatures typically range from 52°F to 75°F (11°C to 24°C), perfect for outdoor exploration. Consider renting a bike to explore the Chianti hills or booking a wine-tasting tour. Staying in a countryside agriturismo gives you a quieter base than the cities.
- Crowds & prices: Florence is already busy in spring, while the countryside feels much calmer.
- Watch out for: Book timed tickets for the Uffizi and Accademia in advance, and avoid driving into historic town centers, which have restricted traffic zones (ZTL) with automatic fines.
2. The Greek Islands (Milos or Paros)
Sarakiniko, Milos
The Greek Islands, such as Milos and Paros, are lovely in May, when the weather is warm and sunny but the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived. These islands are known for their beaches, crystal-clear waters, and whitewashed villages. Many ferry routes are running by May, though timetables are less frequent than in peak summer, so plan your island hops in advance.
Temperatures range from about 63°F to 77°F (17°C to 25°C). The sea is still cool for swimming, usually around 19–20°C (66–68°F), but it’s perfect for exploring beaches like Sarakiniko on Milos or the quieter coves of Paros. For more ideas, see our guides to the best Greek islands to visit and where to go in Greece.
- Crowds & prices: Early season, with lower prices than June to August.
- Watch out for: Some smaller hotels and tavernas are still opening in early May, so check before you book.
3. Andalusia, Spain (Seville & Córdoba)
Image: “IMG 20170514 193638 – Patios de Córdoba.jpg” by María Jesús Blanco, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Andalusia in southern Spain is spectacular in May, with warm weather, rich history, and some of the country’s best festivals. In Córdoba, May is festival month: the Cruces de Mayo kick things off, followed by the famous Patios Festival, when locals open their flower-filled courtyards to visitors. In Seville, the Feria de Abril usually takes place in April, but in years when Easter falls late, it can spill into early May.
Seville’s Alcázar
Temperatures range from about 59°F to 82°F (15°C to 28°C), warm but before the extreme heat of summer. Wander through Seville’s Alcázar or visit the Mezquita in Córdoba, sample jamón ibérico, and enjoy a glass of sherry with a flamenco performance.
- Crowds & prices: Córdoba gets busy during its May festivals, and hotels fill up quickly.
- Watch out for: Book timed tickets for the Alcázar and Mezquita in advance. Late May can already reach 30°C (86°F) or more.
4. Scottish Highlands, UK
Eilean Donan Castle
The Scottish Highlands are breathtaking in May. Bluebells carpet the woodlands, the days are long, and May is often one of the driest months of the year, making it a great time for hiking and road trips in this part of the UK. The region is known for its rugged mountains, serene lochs, and ancient castles, and visiting before the summer holidays means quieter roads.
Temperatures range from about 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C). Hike trails around Glen Coe or up Ben Nevis if conditions allow, take a scenic drive through the Cairngorms National Park, and stop at castles like Eilean Donan. For more on timing a UK trip, see our guide to the best time to visit the UK.
- Crowds & prices: Moderate, with busier bank holiday weekends.
- Watch out for: Snow can linger on high summits like Ben Nevis into May, and midges start appearing toward the end of the month.
5. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Keukenhof Gardens / Image source: Unsplash
Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most iconic cities, and May brings pleasant temperatures for cycling along the canals and exploring its world-class museums. Tulip season peaks in mid-April, but if you visit in early May, you can still catch the last of the blooms at Keukenhof Gardens, which usually stays open until about mid-May.
Image: “20220525.Rijksmuseum Amsterdam.-018.jpg” by Bybbisch94, Christian Gebhardt, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Temperatures range from about 48°F to 63°F (9°C to 17°C), ideal for walking or cycling between landmarks like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Take a canal cruise for a unique view of the city, and enjoy the laid-back café culture with a coffee and pastry by the water.
- Crowds & prices: Amsterdam is busy year-round, and spring weekends are popular.
- Watch out for: Book museum tickets online in advance, especially for the Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House.
6. Paris, France
Luxembourg Gardens
Paris is always a wonderful destination in France, but May is one of the best times to visit. The weather is mild, the gardens are in bloom, and café terraces are full of life. Temperatures range from about 52°F to 68°F (11°C to 20°C), perfect for strolling along the Seine, picnicking in the Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens, and exploring Montmartre. Don’t forget to indulge in croissants and macarons along the way.
- Crowds & prices: Spring is a busy season in Paris, though usually less hectic than July and August.
- Watch out for: France has several public holidays in May, including May 1, when many museums, including the Louvre, are closed. Book timed tickets for major attractions ahead.
Beach & Island Escapes
For those seeking sunshine and clear water, these beach destinations are great for a May escape. Some are at the start of their dry season, while others are entering a rainier period with lower prices, so check the notes for each.
7. Bali, Indonesia
Rice terraces near Ubud
Bali, known for its beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a fantastic destination in May. It’s the start of the dry season, so you can expect more sunshine and less humidity than in the wet months, which is perfect for surfing, snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach. Beyond the coast, Bali offers stunning temples and rice terraces that are easy to explore in dry weather.
Image: “Monkey Forest Park, Ubud, Indonesia – panoramio (7).jpg” by Michelle Maria, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
Temperatures range from about 75°F to 88°F (24°C to 31°C). Walk through the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, explore the rice terraces around Ubud, and visit temples and traditional dance performances to experience Bali’s unique culture.
- Crowds & prices: Busier than the wet season, but quieter than the July and August peak.
- Watch out for: Keep sunglasses, hats, and snacks out of reach at the Monkey Forest, as the macaques are quick to grab loose items.
8. The Maldives
The Maldives
The Maldives is known for its overwater villas, crystal-clear waters, and coral reefs. May marks the start of the southwest monsoon, the Maldives’ wetter season, so you can expect more showers, higher humidity, and occasionally rougher seas than in the December to April dry season. The upside is value: resort rates are often noticeably lower, and there are still plenty of sunny spells between the rain.
Temperatures range from about 79°F to 88°F (26°C to 31°C). Consider an all-inclusive package for better value, and pick a resort with a good house reef so you can snorkel whenever the weather clears. For a more local experience, visit one of the inhabited islands.
- Crowds & prices: Low season, with some of the best resort deals of the year.
- Watch out for: Showers and wind can affect boat excursions and underwater visibility, so keep your plans flexible.
9. Costa Rica (Pacific Coast)
Manuel Antonio National Park
Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast is a great-value choice in May, when the country enters its “green season.” Mornings are often sunny, with rain usually arriving in the afternoon, and the rainforests turn lush and vibrant. Whether you’re exploring Manuel Antonio National Park, hiking in the cloud forests, or surfing in Tamarindo, you’ll find fewer crowds and lower prices than during the December to April dry season.
Coastal temperatures range from about 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C). Wildlife is active, so book a guided tour to spot sloths, howler monkeys, and tropical birds. The green season also brings good surf to the Pacific coast.
- Crowds & prices: Quieter and cheaper than the dry season.
- Watch out for: Plan outdoor activities for the morning, pack a rain jacket, and expect some unpaved roads to get muddy.
10. Fiji
Fiji
Fiji is known for its beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a dream destination for beach lovers and divers. May marks the start of Fiji’s dry season, which runs until around October, bringing less rain, lower humidity, and pleasant temperatures for beach days and underwater exploration.
Temperatures range from about 72°F to 84°F (22°C to 29°C). It’s a great time for snorkeling, diving, and boat trips to the outer islands like the Mamanuca and Yasawa groups. Fiji has only a handful of overwater bungalows, so book early if that’s on your wish list.
- Crowds & prices: Good value before the June to August peak, when Australian and New Zealand school holidays bring more visitors.
- Watch out for: Early May can still bring the occasional tropical shower.
11. Algarve, Portugal
Lagos, Algarve
The Algarve region of Portugal offers dramatic coastal cliffs, beautiful beaches, and charming towns, making it one of Europe’s best beach destinations in May. Sunny days and mild temperatures make it ideal before the summer crowds arrive, and the region’s fresh seafood makes it a great choice for food lovers.
Temperatures range from about 59°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C), though the Atlantic is still cool for swimming. The coastline is perfect for cliff-top hikes like the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and boat tours to sea caves and hidden beaches. Base yourself in Lagos for historic sites, great restaurants, and easy access to the coast.
- Crowds & prices: Good value before summer rates kick in.
- Watch out for: Rules for visiting Benagil Cave have become stricter, so check current tour and access regulations before you go.
Nature, Wildlife & Epic Landscapes
12. Machu Picchu, Peru
Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu is one of the world’s most iconic destinations, and May is a great time to visit. It’s the start of the dry season, bringing clearer skies and good conditions for trekking the Inca Trail and exploring the Sacred Valley, while crowds are still lighter than in the June to August peak.
Temperatures range from about 45°F to 70°F (7°C to 21°C). After your visit, relax in the small hot springs in Aguas Calientes. For more planning help, see our guides to the best time to visit Machu Picchu and the best time to visit Peru.
- Crowds & prices: Getting busier as the dry season begins.
- Watch out for: Inca Trail permits and Machu Picchu entry tickets sell out months ahead. Spend a couple of days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley to adjust to the altitude.
13. Banff National Park, Canada
Lake Louise in summer. In May, the lake is often still frozen.
Banff National Park in Canada offers snow-capped mountains, spectacular lakes, and abundant wildlife. May is a quiet shoulder season, when valleys turn green and wildlife like elk, bighorn sheep, and bears are often seen along the roads. The Icefields Parkway is open for one of the world’s great scenic drives, and lower-elevation lakes and canyons, such as Lake Minnewanka and Johnston Canyon, are good choices.
Keep in mind that the famous turquoise lakes usually thaw late in the season. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake often stay frozen until late May or early June, and the road to Moraine Lake typically opens around June, with access by Parks Canada shuttle or commercial tour only. Temperatures range from about 34°F to 59°F (1°C to 15°C), and snow is still possible.
- Crowds & prices: Quiet, with lower hotel rates than summer.
- Watch out for: Many high-elevation trails are still snow-covered, so check Parks Canada trail reports and carry bear spray.
14. Kruger National Park, South Africa
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of Africa’s best safari destinations, and May offers excellent conditions for wildlife viewing. The early dry season thins out the vegetation, and animals start gathering around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to spot. Mild days and cool mornings make game drives comfortable.
Temperatures range from about 50°F to 79°F (10°C to 26°C). It’s a great time to look for the Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. For a more exclusive experience, stay in a private concession inside the park or a private reserve bordering it, where expert guides and off-road driving give you closer sightings.
- Crowds & prices: Moderate, before South Africa’s winter school holidays.
- Watch out for: Early morning drives are cold, so bring a warm jacket. Malaria risk is lower in the dry season but not zero, so check with a travel health professional.
15. South Island, New Zealand
Fiordland National Park
New Zealand’s South Island offers dramatic fjords, mountains, and lakes. May is late autumn, and while the best fall colors usually peak in April, towns like Arrowtown and the area around Queenstown can still hold on to golden leaves into early May. It’s a quiet time between the summer crowds and the start of ski season.
Queenstown
Temperatures in Queenstown range from about 37°F to 54°F (3°C to 12°C), with frosty mornings. Take a boat cruise on Milford Sound, walk lakeside trails around Queenstown, or book a scenic flight over Mount Cook. Pack warm layers, as temperatures drop quickly at night.
- Crowds & prices: Quiet shoulder season with good deals on accommodation and car rentals.
- Watch out for: Winter driving conditions can start in May on alpine roads like the Milford Road, where you may need to carry snow chains.
16. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Seabirds in the Galápagos
The Galápagos Islands offer a unique experience in May, especially for wildlife lovers. May marks the transition from the warm, wet season to the cooler, drier season, bringing pleasant weather and generally calm seas. It’s a great time for birdwatching, with blue-footed boobies performing their famous courtship dances and waved albatrosses returning to Española Island.
Temperatures range from about 72°F to 84°F (22°C to 29°C). The water is still relatively warm for snorkeling with sea lions, turtles, and tropical fish before the cooler currents arrive later in the year. Most visitor sites in the national park can only be visited with a licensed naturalist guide, so book a cruise or guided land-based tour in advance.
- Crowds & prices: Shoulder season, with better availability than the June to August and holiday peaks.
- Watch out for: Budget for the national park entry fee, which is paid on arrival, and check the latest amount before you travel.
Cultural Gems & Festivals
May is also an excellent time for cultural trips, from Kyoto’s centuries-old Aoi Matsuri to Morocco’s Rose Festival and the ancient city of Petra.
17. Kyoto, Japan
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
Kyoto in Japan is magical in May, when the city enters shinryoku, the season of fresh green leaves. Temple gardens are lush, azaleas and irises bloom, and on May 15, the Aoi Matsuri, one of Kyoto’s three great festivals, sends a procession in Heian-era costume through the city. From May, restaurants along the Kamogawa River also open their outdoor summer terraces.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Temperatures range from about 57°F to 77°F (14°C to 25°C). Visit Kinkaku-ji, take a boat ride along the Hozu River, or walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove early in the morning to beat the crowds.
- Crowds & prices: Very busy during Golden Week (late April to early May), calmer in mid to late May.
- Watch out for: Avoid Golden Week if you can, or book hotels and trains well in advance.
18. Marrakesh, Morocco
Majorelle Garden
Marrakesh is a vibrant city full of color, history, and culture, and May is a great time to visit before the intense summer heat. Explore the famous souks, soak up the evening atmosphere in Jemaa el-Fnaa square, visit the Saadian Tombs, and wander through the Majorelle Garden. Stay in a riad, a traditional Moroccan house built around a courtyard, for authentic local hospitality.
May is also rose season in Morocco. The Rose Festival takes place in Kelaat M’Gouna in the Valley of Roses, a long drive from Marrakesh across the Atlas Mountains, and is best combined with a multi-day trip to the desert. Temperatures in Marrakesh range from about 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C).
- Crowds & prices: A popular spring month, with higher prices than summer.
- Watch out for: Book Majorelle Garden tickets online, and check the dates of Islamic holidays, which shift earlier each year and can affect opening hours.
19. Oaxaca, Mexico
Monte Albán
Oaxaca, Mexico, is known for its rich Indigenous culture, colorful markets, and some of the country’s best food. May is one of the warmest months, at the end of the dry season, and it’s a quieter time to visit than the busy Day of the Dead period in late October and early November or the Guelaguetza festival in July.
Temperatures range from about 57°F to 88°F (14°C to 31°C), with hot afternoons, so plan sightseeing for the morning and evening. Oaxaca’s cuisine is a highlight, from mole to tlayudas. Visit the ancient Zapotec city of Monte Albán, tour mezcal distilleries in Santiago Matatlán, and see the petrified waterfalls at Hierve el Agua.
- Crowds & prices: Quiet low season, with good hotel deals.
- Watch out for: The midday heat is intense, and the rainy season usually begins in late May or June.
20. Petra, Jordan
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Petra, the ancient rose-red city in Jordan, is a must for anyone interested in history and archaeology. In May, the temperatures are still manageable for hiking through the Siq to the famous Treasury (Al-Khazneh), climbing the steps to the Monastery, and visiting the Roman Theatre.
Temperatures range from about 59°F to 86°F (15°C to 30°C). Arrive when the gates open to enjoy the Siq before tour groups, hire a local guide to understand the site’s history, and consider the Jordan Pass, which bundles your visa fee with entry to Petra. On select evenings, Petra by Night lights the Siq and Treasury with candles.
- Crowds & prices: Spring is Petra’s peak season, so expect busy trails at midday.
- Watch out for: Late May can get hot, so carry plenty of water and sun protection.
21. Istanbul, Turkey
Image: “Istanbul asv2020-02 img45 Hagia Sophia.jpg” by A.Savin, via Wikimedia Commons.
Istanbul is one of the world’s most unique cities, where East meets West, and May is an ideal time to visit. The weather is pleasant for exploring the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, and crowds are more manageable than in summer. Relax at a waterfront café on the Bosphorus with a glass of Turkish tea.
Blue Mosque
Temperatures range from about 55°F to 72°F (13°C to 22°C). Take a boat ride along the Bosphorus, visit Topkapı Palace, the former residence of the Ottoman sultans, and stroll İstiklal Avenue near Taksim Square for shopping and street life.
- Crowds & prices: Moderate, busier on weekends and holidays.
- Watch out for: The Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque are active mosques, so dress modestly and check prayer times. Foreign visitors to the Hagia Sophia use a separate paid entrance.
Practical Tips for Global Travel in May
- Watch for holidays. Memorial Day weekend in the U.S. pushes up flight prices. Japan’s Golden Week (late April to early May) and China’s Labor Day holiday (early May) cause huge travel peaks across Asia. Many European countries also have public holidays in May, when some museums and shops close.
- Check Islamic holiday dates. In destinations like Morocco, Jordan, and Turkey, religious holidays move about 11 days earlier each year and can affect opening hours and prices.
- Know where the rains start. May is the beginning of the wet season in places like Costa Rica and the Maldives, bringing lower prices but more showers.
- Follow the layering rule. May brings warm days and cool evenings in many places. Pack light layers, a lightweight jacket, sun protection for beach destinations, and comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets and trails.
- Pack the essentials. An international adapter, portable charger, and reusable water bottle make a big difference on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is warm to travel in May?
Southern Europe, including Andalusia, the Greek Islands, and the Algarve, is warm and sunny in May. For guaranteed heat and dry weather, Bali and Fiji are both at the start of their dry seasons.
Is May a good time to visit Europe?
Yes. May brings long days, blooming landscapes, and comfortable temperatures across most of Europe, with fewer crowds and lower prices than in summer. Big cities can still be busy, especially around public holidays.
Where should I go for beaches in May?
Bali, Fiji, and the Greek Islands are great beach choices in May. The Algarve is sunny but the sea is still cool, while the Maldives and Costa Rica offer good deals with a higher chance of rain.
Is May rainy season anywhere popular?
Yes. May is the start of the rainy or green season in Costa Rica and much of Central America, and it marks the start of the southwest monsoon in the Maldives. Rain usually comes in short bursts, so these destinations can still be worthwhile if you’re flexible.
Where Will Spring Take You?
May offers great conditions for exploring a wide variety of destinations, from festival-filled cities to wild national parks and tropical islands. Whether you’re soaking up the culture in Kyoto, exploring ancient Petra, or relaxing on the beaches of Bali, a little planning around weather, holidays, and crowds will help you make the most of your spring getaway.
Not ready to travel internationally? Explore the best places to travel in May in the USA for a domestic trip with the same great spring weather, no passport needed.