Best Places To Visit In May
If May travel options are still up in the air for your customers, plenty of choices are available. By entering holiday preferences into our bespoke destination search engine, the best places to visit can easily be matched.
For those seeking inspiration, a selection of incredible May holiday destinations has been handpicked by us. Barbados’ pristine beaches are perfect for a relaxing escape before summer’s heat sets in, while Peru’s ancient wonders offer ideal trekking conditions for Machu Picchu. Slovenia’s stunning lakes and vineyards can be explored in mild spring weather, and Alberta’s breathtaking national parks come to life beautifully after winter.
| Best places to visit in May | ||
|
Destination |
Av. High Temp |
Rainy Days |
| Peru | 22º | 5 |
| The River Seine | 19º | 12 |
| Alberta | 16º | 3 |
| Barbados | 31º | 8 |
| Slovenia | 21º | 16 |
| Yosemite National Park | 22º | 5 |
| Barcelona | 23º | 4 |
| Cyprus | 26º | 4 |
| Rome | 24º | 7 |
Peru
- Temperature: 22º
- Daylight hours: 11.5
- Rainy days: 5
- Flight Time: 13 hours 30 mins
A trip exploring Peru in May is considered ideal, with the dry season providing perfect conditions for exploring Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail. Mild temperatures and clear skies create optimal conditions for hiking and enjoying the stunning Andean views. In Cusco, a quieter atmosphere is experienced, making for a more relaxed exploration of its ancient ruins and charming plazas. The Sacred Valley is lush and vibrant, while the Amazon basin offers an exciting opportunity to see wildlife in comfortable weather. With fewer crowds and perfect conditions, May is often regarded as the ideal time to experience Peru’s diverse landscapes and rich culture.
The River Seine
- Temperature: 19º
- Daylight hours: 15
- Rainy days: 12
- Flight Time: 1 hour 15 mins
Drifting down the River Seine in May is a truly enchanting experience, with Paris and the French countryside bathed in warm spring sunshine. The riverbanks burst with life as Parisians relax in open-air cafés and gardens like the Tuileries and Luxembourg bloom in full colour. A cruise through the heart of Paris offers iconic views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre, while stops in charming towns like Rouen or Vernon allow for excursions to Monet’s famous gardens in Giverny. Further along, the rolling landscapes of Normandy reveal historic treasures, from medieval abbeys to the D-Day beaches. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, it’s the perfect time to explore France from the water.
Alberta
- Temperature: 16º
- Daylight hours: 15.5
- Rainy days: 3
- Flight Time: 8 hours 15 mins
A mix of spring awakening and lingering winter beauty can be witnessed in Alberta in May, making it an incredible time for exploration. The Canadian Rockies, including Banff and Jasper National Parks, are seen emerging from their snowy slumber, with thawing lakes reflecting dramatic mountain peaks. The famous turquoise hues of Moraine Lake and Lake Louise begin to appear, while waterfalls are fueled by freshly melted snow. Wildlife is frequently spotted, with elk, bears, and bighorn sheep becoming especially active. In Calgary and Edmonton, patio season is welcomed, and ideal hiking conditions are found in the Badlands. With mild weather and fewer crowds, Alberta’s breathtaking landscapes can be experienced in an unforgettable way.
Barbados
- Temperature: 31º
- Daylight hours: 12.5
- Rainy days: 8
- Flight Time: 8 hours 30 mins
In May, Barbados is known for offering a perfect balance of warm weather and fewer crowds, creating an ideal time to experience the island’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. The beaches remain idyllic, with calm waters perfect for snorkelling or swimming with turtles at Carlisle Bay. The island’s lush interior is brought to life by tropical blooms, and hiking through places like the Scotland District reveals stunning views of rolling hills and hidden waterfalls. May also marks the start of the off-peak season, allowing for more relaxed visits to iconic spots like Bridgetown and Harrison’s Cave, along with the opportunity to enjoy local festivals and fresh Bajan cuisine without the usual rush.
Slovenia
- Temperature: 21º
- Daylight hours: 15
- Rainy days: 16
- Flight Time: 2 hours 15 mins
Slovenia truly comes alive in spring, with lush greenery and colourful flowers everywhere, making it the perfect time for outdoor adventures. Lake Bled, with its iconic island church, offers a peaceful and picture-perfect setting, while the Julian Alps provide stunning hiking trails, with snow-capped peaks still visible in the distance. The capital, Ljubljana, is vibrant with outdoor cafés lining the riverside, and the medieval Ljubljana Castle offers sweeping views of the city. Wine regions like Brda are in full bloom, with vineyards ready for the season, making it a great time for tastings and scenic drives. With pleasant weather, it’s an ideal time to enjoy Slovenia’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Yosemite National Park
- Temperature: 22º
- Daylight hours: 14
- Rainy days: 5
- Flight Time: 10-11 hours
Visiting Yosemite National Park in May allows for a breathtaking experience as the park is seen in full bloom, with waterfalls reaching their peak flow and wildflowers blanketing the meadows. The mild weather and reduced crowds create ideal conditions for hiking, with trails such as the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and the John Muir Trail offering stunning views of Half Dome. The towering sequoias in Mariposa Grove can be admired, while the opening of Tioga Road reveals high-altitude vistas. A broader itinerary can be enjoyed by combining Yosemite with a trip to nearby Sequoia National Park for further exploration of California’s natural beauty, or by beginning in San Francisco before continuing to the park for a serene nature retreat.
Barcelona
- Temperature: 23º
- Daylight hours: 14.5
- Rainy days: 4
- Flight Time: 2 hours 10 mins
As spring transitions into early summer, Barcelona pulses with energy, offering a perfect blend of warm sunshine and a laid-back atmosphere before peak season sets in. La Rambla buzzes with street performers, open-air cafés, and markets brimming with fresh produce. Gaudí’s masterpieces, from the Sagrada Família to Park Güell, appear even more vibrant beneath the clear blue skies. The city’s beaches, such as Barceloneta, remain inviting yet uncrowded, making seaside strolls and tapas by the water all the more enjoyable. Local festivals, like Feria de Abril, infuse the city with Andalusian flair, while rooftop terraces hum with life, creating the perfect time to experience Barcelona’s artistic and cultural spirit.
Cyprus
- Temperature: 26º
- Daylight hours: 14
- Rainy days: 4
- Flight Time: 4 hours 15 mins
A holiday to Cyprus in May is a real treat, with warm, sunny days and mild evenings making it the perfect time to explore the island’s diverse beauty. The beaches, like those in Ayia Napa and Protaras, are ideal for relaxing or swimming in crystal-clear waters without the summer crowds. Inland, the Troodos Mountains offer scenic hikes through lush forests and traditional villages, while archaeological sites like Kourion and the Tombs of the Kings are easy to visit. The island’s wildflowers add a splash of colour to the landscapes, and local festivals bring Cypriot culture to life, giving visitors a wonderful mix of nature, history, and vibrant traditions.
Rome
- Temperature: 24º
- Daylight hours: 14.5
- Rainy days: 7
- Flight Time: 2 hours 15 mins
With comfortable weather and fewer crowds, Rome can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace. Iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon are illuminated by warm sunshine, making their grandeur even more striking. Meandering through charming streets reveals hidden piazzas, bustling markets, and inviting cafés. The splendour of the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica can be admired, while the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps offer perfect spots to unwind. Lush gardens like Villa Borghese add a refreshing touch of nature to the city’s timeless beauty. It’s an ideal time to soak in Rome’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Still Can’t Find The Perfect Place For Your Customers To Visit In May?
Struggling to help your customers decide on the best places to holiday in May? We’re here to help! Tweaking the travel dates can unlock a whole range of amazing destinations. Use the links below to explore top spots for other months of the year. Or, if you’d prefer a more tailored suggestion, check out our destination finder at the top of the page!