10 best places to travel in May: Top spring destinations
May is one of the best months to travel, offering pleasant weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists before peak summer. Whether you're seeking cultural festivals, beach escapes, or mountain retreats, these 10 destinations provide the perfect spring getaway. Here are the top places to visit in May for an unforgettable trip.
Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto in May is magical, with mild temperatures and lush greenery. The city’s iconic temples and gardens, like Kinkaku-ji and Fushimi Inari, are surrounded by vibrant foliage, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Don’t miss the Aoi Matsuri festival, one of Kyoto’s most famous events, featuring a grand procession in traditional Heian-period costumes. May also offers perfect weather for strolling through the bamboo forests of Arashiyama.
Features: Kyoto, Japan
- Ideal weather (15-25°C)
- Cultural festivals (Aoi Matsuri)
- Scenic beauty (cherry blossoms & gardens)
Malaga, Spain
Malaga in May boasts warm sunshine, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds than summer. The city’s beaches, like La Malagueta, are perfect for sunbathing, while historic sites like the Alcazaba offer rich cultural experiences.
May also brings the Feria de Malaga, a lively festival with flamenco, music, and traditional Andalusian horse parades. Pair your visit with day trips to Granada or Seville for a full Andalusia experience.
Features: Malaga, Spain
- Sunny Mediterranean weather
- Vibrant local festivals
- Stunning beaches & historic sites
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik in May offers mild temperatures (18-23°C) and fewer tourists, making it the perfect time to explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town and walk the famous city walls without the summer crowds.
Take a boat trip to the Elafiti Islands or visit Lokrum for serene nature walks. May also marks the start of outdoor dining season, with fresh seafood and Dalmatian wines to enjoy.
Features: Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Perfect sightseeing weather
- Less crowded than summer
- Crystal-clear Adriatic waters
Bodrum, Turkey
Bodrum in May is warm but not scorching, ideal for exploring its whitewashed streets, ancient ruins like the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, and vibrant bazaars.
The Aegean Sea is already inviting for swimming, and beach clubs start opening without the peak-season rush. Don’t miss a sunset cruise along the coast for breathtaking views.
Features: Bodrum, Turkey
- Warm, sunny days (20-26°C)
- Less crowded beaches
- Rich history & nightlife
Hawaii, USA
May is a fantastic time to visit Hawaii, with warm temperatures, lower rainfall, and fewer tourists. Each island offers unique experiences—whether it’s snorkeling in Maui, hiking Kauai’s Napali Coast, or exploring Oahu’s Pearl Harbor.
Spring also brings whale-watching opportunities (until early May) and vibrant lei-making festivals celebrating Hawaiian culture.
Features: Hawaii, USA
- Perfect beach weather
- Great for outdoor adventures
- Cultural festivals & wildlife
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech in May offers warm days and cool evenings, ideal for exploring the bustling souks, tranquil Majorelle Garden, and historic Bahia Palace.
Spring brings blooming roses in the nearby Atlas Mountains, and day trips to the Ourika Valley or Sahara Desert are highly recommended for nature lovers.
Features: Marrakech, Morocco
- Pleasant desert climate
- Vibrant markets & gardens
- Proximity to mountain escapes
Santorini, Greece
Santorini in May is blissful—warm but not too hot, with fewer crowds and lower prices than summer. The iconic whitewashed villages and caldera views are even more stunning under spring sunlight.
It’s also a great time for wine tours, as vineyards begin to flourish, and boat trips to the volcanic hot springs are comfortably warm.
Features: Santorini, Greece
- Ideal weather (18-25°C)
- Uncrowded attractions
- Stunning sunsets & photo spots
Banff, Canada
May in Banff marks the start of hiking season, with snow melting to reveal turquoise lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Wildlife spotting (bears, elk) is also excellent during this time.
While some higher-altitude trails may still be snowy, lower areas offer breathtaking spring hikes without summer crowds.
Features: Banff, Canada
- Mild mountain weather
- Fewer tourists
- Stunning alpine scenery
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon in May is sunny and lively, with temperatures around 20-25°C. The city’s pastel-colored streets, historic tram rides, and nearby beaches (like Cascais) are perfect for exploration.
May also hosts the Santo António Festival, filling the streets with music, grilled sardines, and festive decorations.
Features: Lisbon, Portugal
- Warm, sunny days
- Cultural festivals
- Affordable & walkable
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast in May is a dream—warm enough for beach visits but without the summer crowds. Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi are picturesque, with blooming flowers and perfect coastal hikes.
Boat trips to Capri are delightful, and seafood restaurants start serving fresh catches al fresco.
Features: Amalfi Coast, Italy
- Perfect Mediterranean climate
- Stunning coastal views
- Less crowded than summer
Plan your perfect May getaway: Final tips & recommendations
May is an ideal month for travel, offering a perfect balance of pleasant weather, cultural events, and fewer crowds. Whether you prefer beach escapes, historic cities, or mountain adventures, these destinations promise unforgettable spring experiences. Start planning your May getaway now for the best deals and availability!
