The best places to visit in May are lively cultural hubs, gorgeous scenic retreats, and exotic escapes that really pop in spring. May is arguably one of the underrated months for travel, offering a unique blend of ideal weather, fewer tourists, and vibrant nature.
From serene beaches in Europe to adventure trails in Asia, this month is ideal for exploring new cultures, attending local festivals, or simply escaping the daily grind. According to National Geographic, May is the perfect balance of climate, crowd, and cost. Lonely Planet also highlights it as one of the top months for nature and cultural experiences around the world.
Table of Contents
WHY MAY IS AN IDEAL MONTH FOR TRAVEL
PERFECT WEATHER IN BOTH HEMISPHERES
- Southern Europe, parts of Asia, and North America start warming up
- Rainy seasons in tropical regions like Southeast Asia taper off
SHOULDER SEASON BENEFITS
- Lower costs for flights and accommodation
- Fewer tourists at major attractions
BLOOMING NATURE & CULTURAL FESTIVALS
- Think lavender fields, tulip gardens, and cherry blossom remnants
- Events like La Patum in Spain or Japan’s Golden Week
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MAY IN THE WORLD
KYOTO, JAPAN
Post-sakura, Kyoto offers a serene vibe without the tourist rush. Visit peaceful temples and enjoy new greenery emerging after spring.
BARCELONA, SPAIN
Enjoy fewer crowds and cultural festivals like Feria de Abril. Great time for art, tapas, and city strolling.
SANTORINI, GREECE
Beat the summer rush while still enjoying stunning sunsets and affordable island stays.
MACHU PICCHU, PERU
One of the best times to hike before the rainy season returns. Weather is ideal for long treks.
NEW YORK CITY, USA
Experience Central Park in full bloom and enjoy spring festivals without peak summer crowds.
Related read: Discover more top destinations with our guide to the prettiest places in the USA.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MAY IN EUROPE
LISBON, PORTUGAL
- Pleasant temperatures and the start of festival season
- Great for walking tours and riverside dining
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
- Late tulips, open-air cafes, and art museums
- A romantic setting without peak season chaos
ROME, ITALY
Explore historic ruins in comfort and avoid long lines with smaller crowds in May.
PARIS, FRANCE
The city of love is in bloom—May is perfect for garden picnics and Seine River cruises.
Planning your European escape? Pack smart with this ultimate guide to choosing the best travel tote.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MAY IN ASIA
BALI, INDONESIA
Dry season begins. Ideal for surfing, beach lounging, and jungle trekking.
BHUTAN
Rich spiritual culture, Himalayan views, and limited tourist flow make Bhutan a May gem.
LUANG PRABANG, LAOS
Expect lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls—ideal for tranquil, slow-paced travel.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MAY FOR COUPLES
VENICE, ITALY
Float through canals under golden light. Fewer tourists than peak summer means more romance.
MAUI, HAWAII
Dramatic sunsets and black sand beaches. Perfect for honeymooners or long-time lovers.
PROVENCE, FRANCE
Pre-lavender bloom magic with wine tours and charming countryside villas.
BEST COUNTRIES TO VISIT IN MAY
- Morocco: Rich culture, coastal breeze, and desert tours
- Croatia: Explore the Adriatic coast minus the crowds
- Canada: Urban cities like Toronto and nature getaways like Banff are ideal in spring
Budgeting your travel? Don’t miss these cheapest places to travel in 2025.
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN MAY 2025 – WHAT’S TRENDING
UPCOMING EVENTS
- Expo Osaka 2025
- Local food and wine festivals across Europe
CLIMATE-SMART DESTINATIONS
- Countries reducing carbon footprints like Costa Rica and Iceland
TOP PICKS FROM TRAVEL EXPERTS
- National Geographic suggests “off-grid” escapes for wellness and digital detox.
COMMON TRAVEL PROBLEMS IN MAY & HOW TO SOLVE THEM
LAST-MINUTE BOOKINGS
- Use flight alert tools like Hopper or Skyscanner
- Consider flexible accommodations like Airbnb or VRBO
WEATHER VARIABILITY
- Always pack layers and waterproof outerwear
- Download offline maps for unexpected detours
VISA ISSUES
- Research entry requirements at least 4–6 weeks in advance
- Use online services like iVisa to expedite processes
Traveling safely is also key. Check out our guide on safe travels in the USA.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the best country to visit in May?
Countries like Japan, Morocco, and Portugal offer a mix of culture, good weather, and affordability.
Where should I go on vacation in May for warm weather?
Try Bali, Florida, or Greece for sunshine and blue skies.
Is May a good month to travel internationally?
Yes! It’s a sweet spot before summer crowds surge.
What are the cheapest places to travel in May?
Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and parts of Central America offer great value.
Which places are good for a romantic trip in May?
Paris, Maui, and Santorini top the list for romantic escapes.
CONCLUSION
Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or romantic traveler, May offers something for everyone. With mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and breathtaking scenery, it’s one of the smartest months to travel.
Start planning your perfect May getaway—just don’t forget your tote bag, backpack essentials, and travel insurance.