24 Best Places for Your Holiday in May (not just Beach Getaways)

May is the month when nature awakens in its full glory, temperatures are pleasant, and holiday destinations aren’t yet overrun with tourists. If you’re planning your holiday during this time, you have a wide range of options, from warm coastal resorts to cultural metropolises or mountain regions. In this guide I will share with you 24 Best Places for Your Holiday in May (not just Beach Getaways) to help you choose the perfect destination.

While you can already enjoy swimming in the sea in some places, others offer blooming gardens, historical landmarks, or wild nature without tourist crowds. Let’s take a look at the best destinations for a May holiday.

24 Best Places for Your Holiday in May (not just Beach Getaways)

May is the ideal time for travel – many destinations offer pleasant weather that’s neither too hot nor too cold. Let’s explore 25 great destinations where you can enjoy a perfect holiday in May.

You might also be interested in: Where to go on holiday in March

Egypt

Egypt in May offers excellent holiday conditions – temperatures are pleasant, between 25-30 °C, and the sea is around 24 °C, which is absolutely perfect for swimming. Red Sea resorts such as Hurghada, Marsa Alam, or Sharm El Sheikh are an excellent choice during this period. The Red Sea is also known for its magnificent coral reefs, perfect for both snorkeling and diving.

In May, you can also visit historical sites like the pyramids in Giza or the temples in Luxor without the unbearable summer heat. A boat trip on the Nile is very pleasant during this time, as is a visit to the Valley of the Kings. Evening strolls along the beaches or relaxing in local cafes and restaurants will allow you to enjoy a pleasant atmosphere without excessive heat or tourist crowds.

💡Accommodation Tip: Hilton Alexandria King’s Ranch Hotel

Turkey

The Turkish Riviera blossoms into full beauty in May. Air temperatures hover around 25 °C and the sea is a pleasant 21-22 °C, which can be suitable for swimming, especially for hardy swimmers. Resorts such as Antalya, Alanya, Bodrum, or Marmaris offer comfortable accommodation in diverse hotels and resorts. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, I recommend the Belek area with its five-star hotels and golf courses.

May is also an ideal time to explore historical sites. You can visit the ancient city of Ephesus, the breathtaking travertine terraces of Pamukkale, or the mystical Cappadocia valley with its underground cities and characteristic rock formations. On the Aegean coast, the town of Dalyan with its Lycian rock tombs or the Fethiye area with the beautiful Ölüdeniz lagoon are also worth a visit.

💡Accommodation Tip: Sunny Hill Alya Hotel

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a perfect choice for a May holiday, with temperatures around 24 °C and water at 20 °C. Tenerife, the largest of the islands, offers a diverse landscape, from sandy beaches to the volcanic Teide National Park, home to Spain’s highest mountain. I recommend taking a cable car trip to the summit for beautiful views of the entire island.

Gran Canaria is known for its golden sand dunes in Maspalomas and the vibrant capital, Las Palmas. On Lanzarote, you’ll be captivated by the lunar landscape of Timanfaya National Park and the unique wine regions of La Geria. Fuerteventura, meanwhile, boasts the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands and excellent surfing conditions. The smaller island of La Palma is a hiker’s paradise with magnificent trails through laurel forests and canyons.

In May, the Canary Islands are ideal for an active holiday – you can enjoy hiking, cycling, surfing, windsurfing, or golf. For culinary delights, be sure to try the local potato specialty, papas arrugadas with mojo sauce, fresh seafood, or canario – a local sweet dessert similar to pudding.

💡Accommodation Tip: Marina Elite

Cyprus

Cyprus in May blossoms beautifully, with temperatures around 25-27 °C and the sea at approximately 21 °C. Swimming is possible in May, though for some, the water might still be a bit cool. For swimming, I particularly recommend famous beaches such as Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa, Fig Tree Bay in Protaras, or Coral Bay near Paphos.

May is an ideal time to explore Cypriot history and culture. Visit the archaeological site of Kourion with its impressive Roman amphitheater, the famous “Tombs of the Kings” in Paphos, or the medieval Kolossi Castle. In the capital Nicosia, you can cross the “Green Line” separating the Greek and Turkish parts of the island. Don’t forget a trip to the Troodos Mountains with its villages and Byzantine churches listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

💡Accommodation Tip: Constantinou Bros Athena Beach Hotel

Cape Verde

Cape Verde, an archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean west of Senegal, offers pleasant temperatures around 25 °C in May and sea temperatures of 23-24 °C, ideal for swimming. The most popular islands are Sal and Boa Vista, with beautiful sandy beaches like Santa Maria on Sal or Praia de Chaves on Boa Vista. Cape Verdean beaches are known for their white sand and turquoise water.

Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the excellent conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing, especially on Sal Island. If you’re interested in nature and hiking, visit Santo Antão Island or Fogo Island with its active volcano, Pico do Fogo, which you can climb. On Santiago Island, home to the capital Praia, you’ll discover rich history and culture, including colonial architecture in Cidade Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

💡Accommodation Tip: Melia Tortuga Beach Resort & Spa

China

May is one of the best months to visit China. Temperatures are pleasant (20-25 °C) and nature is in full bloom. Sea swimming is possible in southern areas, such as Hainan Island, often called “China’s Hawaii”, where water temperatures reach up to 26 °C.

In Beijing, you can visit the Great Wall of China without the summer tourist crowds, stroll through the Forbidden City, and relax in the Summer Palace, which is most beautiful in spring. In Shanghai, you’ll be captivated by the futuristic skyline of the Pudong district and the historic Bund waterfront promenade. Near Shanghai, you’ll also find water towns like Suzhou or Hangzhou with the famous West Lake.

For nature lovers, I recommend visiting Sichuan province with its unique cuisine and the giant panda breeding center in Chengdu. Nearby, you’ll also find beautiful colorful lakes in Jiuzhaigou National Park. The karst region of Guilin and Yangshuo, with its characteristic limestone hills and the Li River, offering unforgettable scenery reminiscent of traditional Chinese painting, is also worth a visit.

💡Accommodation Tip: Holiday Inn Express Beijing Downtown by IHG

Japan

May in Japan is a wonderful month when cherry blossoms are already fading, but other flowers like azaleas, irises, and wisteria adorn the country. Temperatures are very pleasant (18-24 °C), and the “Golden Week” period (a series of national holidays at the beginning of May) is already ending, so you can avoid the largest crowds of local tourists.

In Tokyo, don’t miss the Asakusa district with Sensoji Temple, modern Shibuya with its famous crossing, or the view from Tokyo Skytree. Kyoto, the former capital, is full of historical temples and shrines, such as Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion) or Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates. In Nara, you can feed tame deer in the park around Todaiji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue.

💡Accommodation Tip: APA Hotel Asakusa Kuramae Kita

France

In May, temperatures around 20 °C await you in France. Paris is beautiful with blooming Tuileries and Luxembourg Gardens. Visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or Notre-Dame Cathedral (even though still under reconstruction after the fire) is much more pleasant during this period than in the summer months. Don’t forget a romantic cruise on the Seine or a visit to one of the typical Parisian cafes.

The French Riviera starts to come alive in May, though the sea water is around 17-18 °C, making it still a bit cool for swimming. Nevertheless, it’s a great time to visit cities like Nice, Cannes (where the famous film festival takes place), or Saint-Tropez without overcrowded beaches. Alternatively, consider Corsica, where temperatures are slightly higher, and you’ll find beautiful beaches and a mountainous interior ideal for hiking.

💡Accommodation Tip: Ibis Paris Bastille Faubourg St Antoine

Italy

Italy is magical in May – temperatures range from 22-25 °C, tourist attractions are not overcrowded, and nature is in full bloom. However, it’s still early for sea swimming (water temperature is around 18-20 °C), but it’s still worth visiting coastal areas like the Amalfi Coast, Cinque Terre, or Sardinia, where you can enjoy beautiful places without summer crowds.

In Rome, stroll through ancient monuments like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, or Pantheon, and don’t forget to visit the Vatican with its museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. Florence will captivate you with its Renaissance treasures in the Uffizi Gallery, Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral with its iconic dome, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge. Venice is even quieter in May, allowing you to enjoy a gondola ride through the canals without the summer heat and crowds.

For nature lovers, I recommend visiting Lake Como or Garda in northern Italy, where you’ll find magnificent views combining mountains, lakes, and Mediterranean vegetation. Sicily is ideal for discovering ancient sites like the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento or the Greek theater in Syracuse.

💡Accommodation Tip: Villa Santa Maria

Austria

If you don’t want to travel too far, then visit Austria. Austria in May offers beautiful spring nature and pleasant temperatures around 18-22 °C. Vienna, the capital with a rich history, is beautifully in bloom during this period. Don’t forget to visit Schönbrunn Palace with its magnificent gardens, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg (the former imperial residence), or Belvedere Palace with its art collection.

Salzburg, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, will charm you with its historic center, featuring Hohensalzburg Fortress towering over the city, Mozart’s birthplace, and Mirabell Palace with its beautiful gardens. The Salzkammergut lake region, with towns like Hallstatt or St. Wolfgang, is also worth a visit near Salzburg.

💡Accommodation Tip: Pension Cafe zum Mühlbach

Germany

For a holiday right across the border, choose Germany. It overflows with spring energy in May, with temperatures around 18-20 °C. Berlin, the vibrant capital, offers a combination of history, culture, and modern lifestyle. Visit the Brandenburg Gate, remnants of the Berlin Wall, Museum Island, or the Kreuzberg district with its cafes and street art. Munich, the capital of Bavaria, will charm you with its traditional atmosphere, Marienplatz square with its famous Glockenspiel, and Nymphenburg Palace with its magnificent gardens.

Also worth a visit is a romantic journey along the Rhine River, with its castle ruins, beautiful vineyards, and towns like Rüdesheim or Bacharach.

💡Accommodation Tip: Motel One Berlin-Potsdamer Platz

Slovenia

Slovenia, a small but incredibly diverse country, is beautifully green in May, with temperatures around 20-22 °C. For example, visit Ljubljana, the capital city with picturesque bridges and a castle. Stroll along the Ljubljanica River embankment, visit the market designed by the famous architect Jože Plečnik, or take the cable car to Ljubljana Castle for views of the entire city.

Bled, one of Slovenia’s most famous attractions, offers a beautiful lake with an island in the middle, featuring a small church. Above the lake, a medieval castle offers magnificent views. The water temperature in Lake Bled in May is around 16-18 °C, which is acceptable for hardier swimmers. Nearby is also Bohinj, the largest Slovenian lake, surrounded by magnificent mountains.

The Slovenian coast, though short, offers charming towns like Piran with its Venetian architecture or Portorož with beaches and spa facilities. The Adriatic Sea temperature in May is around 18 °C, which is still too cold for most people for extended swimming.

💡Accommodation Tip: Hotel Bohinj

Greenland

Greenland in May is an absolutely unique experience, as daylight lasts longer (up to 20 hours a day) and temperatures start to rise, though they still remain cool around 0-5 °C. However, May is an ideal time for observing glaciers, fjords, and Arctic nature without extreme winter temperatures.

The most accessible area is the southwest coast, with cities like Nuuk (the capital), Ilulissat, or Sisimiut. Ilulissat is known for its ice fjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from which huge pieces of glaciers break off into the sea. You can take a boat trip among the ice floes or embark on one of the hiking trails along the fjord.

💡Accommodation Tip: Hotel Sisimiut

Taiwan

In Taiwan, May brings pleasant temperatures around 25-28 °C, though with higher humidity and occasional showers. The sea temperature is around 25 °C, making it suitable for swimming, especially on the island’s southern coast.

Taipei, the capital, is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Visit the Taipei 101 skyscraper, which until recently was the world’s tallest building, the National Palace Museum with the largest collection of Chinese art globally, or night markets like Shilin or Raohe, where you can sample diverse local specialties. Near Taipei, the town of Jiufen, which inspired some scenes from the animated film Spirited Away, is also worth a visit.

Taroko National Park on the island’s eastern coast offers marble gorges, waterfalls, and hiking trails. On the southern coast, you’ll find beautiful beaches around Kenting, where you can enjoy swimming and water sports. For nature lovers, there are also high mountains like Yushan (Jade Mountain), Taiwan’s highest peak, or hot springs in Beitou near Taipei.

💡Accommodation Tip: Guide Hotel Taipei Chongqing

Albania

Albania is still a somewhat undiscovered pearl of the Balkans, and May is an ideal time to visit. Temperatures range from 22-25 °C and the sea temperature is around 19-20 °C. Resorts like Saranda, Ksamil, or Durrës offer beautiful beaches with turquoise water, with Ksamil often compared to exotic destinations due to its white beach and crystal-clear water.

Tirana, the capital, is vibrant and cosmopolitan, with colorful buildings, museums, and parks. Visit the pyramid-shaped building (originally the mausoleum of communist dictator Enver Hoxha), Skanderbeg Square, or the Blloku district, which was formerly reserved only for the communist elite and is now full of cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Historic cities like Berat or Gjirokastër (both UNESCO World Heritage sites) will captivate you with their Ottoman architecture and atmosphere. Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows”, stretches along a hillside with white houses stacked one above another, while Gjirokastër boasts a mighty fortress and stone houses.

💡Accommodation Tip: Vila Melina

Bali

Indonesia offers various climate conditions in May, depending on the specific region. Bali and surrounding islands like Lombok or Gili have ideal conditions for a holiday during this period, with temperatures around 30°C and minimal rainfall. The sea temperature is around 29°C, which is absolutely perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or diving.

In Bali, visit temples like Tanah Lot (sea temple), Uluwatu (cliff temple), or Besakih (the largest and most sacred temple). Ubud, in the island’s interior, is a cultural center with art galleries, temples, and surrounding rice terraces. The southern parts of the island, such as Kuta, Seminyak, or Nusa Dua, offer beautiful beaches and developed tourist infrastructure.

If you want to experience something less touristy, head to Java island, where you’ll find Borobudur – the largest Buddhist temple in the world, or Mount Bromo with its otherworldly landscape. Komodo Island is home to giant Komodo dragons, while Sumatra and Kalimantan (Borneo) offer rainforests and the chance to observe orangutans in the wild.

💡Accommodation Tip: Amnaya Resort Kuta

Greece

Greece in May offers wonderful weather with temperatures around 23-26°C and sea temperatures of 19-21°C. Resorts on the mainland and islands are not yet overcrowded with tourists, but most restaurants and attractions are already open.

Athens, the capital city with a rich history, will captivate you with the Acropolis and Parthenon, the Agora (ancient marketplace), the National Archaeological Museum, or the lively Plaka district. From there, you can take a day trip to Delphi with its famous oracle or to the Peloponnese with its ancient sites like Mycenae, Epidaurus, or Olympia.

Among the Greek islands, Crete is an excellent choice in May, the largest and southernmost island, where it’s already warm enough for both swimming and exploring Minoan sites like the Palace of Knossos or hiking through the breathtaking Samaria Gorge.

💡Accommodation Tip: Arina Beach Resort

Oman

Oman in May offers more pleasant temperatures around 35°C before the real summer heat sets in. The sea temperature is around 30°C, which is ideal for swimming and water activities. Muscat, the capital, combines modern architecture with traditional Arabian elements. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Mutrah Souq (a traditional Arabian market), or the Royal Opera House, which is the first of its kind in the Persian Gulf region.

The Musandam region in the north of the country offers fjords reminiscent of Norway, but in a desert environment. Boat trips from the city of Khasab allow you to observe dolphins and discover hidden coves. For desert lovers, there’s Wahiba Sands with its golden sand dunes, where you can experience a night under the stars in a Bedouin camp.

The inland city of Nizwa, with its impressive fortress and traditional cattle market, is a perfect place to learn about Omani culture and history. Also worth visiting are Jebel Shams (Oman’s highest mountain) with its “Grand Canyon of Arabia” or the Wadi Bani Khalid oasis with its turquoise pools in the middle of the desert landscape.

💡Accommodation Tip: Al Bustan Palace

Seychelles

Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, offers ideal conditions for a holiday in May with temperatures around 30°C and sea temperatures of 29°C. Although it’s the beginning of the rainy season, rainfall is usually short and quickly alternates with sunny weather.

The main island of Mahé offers the capital city Victoria (one of the smallest capitals in the world), beautiful beaches like Beau Vallon or Anse Intendance, and Morne Seychellois National Park with its tropical rainforest.

For snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, the Seychelles are a paradise with crystal-clear waters and rich marine life. You can visit marine national parks like Sainte Anne or Port Launay, where you can observe colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, turtles, or stingrays. Also worth visiting are bird sanctuaries like Aride or Cousin Island, where many endemic bird species nest.

💡Accommodation Tip: Paradise Sun Hotel Seychelles

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates in May offers the last pleasant days before the onset of summer heat. Temperatures range around 35-38°C, and the sea is a pleasant 28-30°C, which is ideal for swimming and water sports.

Dubai, the most famous of the emirates, will captivate you with its futuristic architecture including the world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, the artificial archipelago Palm Jumeirah, or the indoor ski slope in Mall of the Emirates.

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, offers the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Ferrari World theme park with the world’s fastest roller coaster, or the newly opened Louvre Abu Dhabi. For nature lovers, there’s Sir Bani Yas Island with its nature reserve, where you can observe Arabian oryx, gazelles, or giraffes.

Fujairah, on the east coast by the Gulf of Oman, is less developed but offers excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling. Ras Al Khaimah, in the north of the country, combines beautiful beaches with a mountainous interior, where you’ll find the UAE’s highest mountain, Jebel Jais, with the world’s longest zipline.

💡Accommodation Tip: GLOBALSTAY Holiday Homes

Netherlands

The Netherlands in May bursts with colors – tulip fields are still partially in bloom (especially early May), while parks and gardens flourish with many other flowers. Temperatures are pleasant, around 17-20°C, which is ideal for exploring cities or cycling trips.

Amsterdam, the capital, offers not only its famous canals but also world-renowned museums like the Rijksmuseum with works by Dutch masters, the Van Gogh Museum, or the Anne Frank House.

Keukenhof, the world’s largest flower garden, is open until mid-May and showcases millions of flowers, especially tulips, in its beautifully landscaped gardens. Rotterdam, the second-largest city, is known for its modern architecture like the Cube Houses, Erasmus Bridge, or the Markthal market hall. The Hague (Den Haag), the seat of the Dutch government and international courts, offers not only a historic center but also access to the North Sea beaches in nearby Scheveningen.

💡Accommodation Tip: Alexander Hotel

Morocco

Morocco in May offers ideal travel conditions with temperatures around 25-28°C, before the summer heat sets in. Marrakech, one of Morocco’s most famous cities, will captivate you with its bustling Djemaa el-Fna square, which comes alive in the evening with street performers, food vendors, and storytellers. Also visit the historic medina (old city), Bahia Palace, or the Majorelle Garden, which once belonged to fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.

Fes, with its ancient medina (the largest car-free urban area in the world), offers an authentic experience of Moroccan life with its artisan workshops, traditional tanneries, and historic madrasas (Islamic schools). Casablanca, the largest city, is a modern commercial center with the monumental Hassan II Mosque, which is partially built over the sea.

If you love nature, visit the Atlas Mountains with their majestic peaks, traditional Berber villages, and beautiful valleys like Ourika or Draa. The Sahara in the south of the country offers the chance for camel rides and overnight stays under the stars in a traditional nomadic camp.

💡Accommodation Tip: Caravane

Portugal

In Portugal, May brings pleasant temperatures around 22-25°C and sea temperatures of 17-19°C. While it’s still a bit cool for swimming, it’s warm enough for other activities, such as surfing.

Lisbon, the capital city spread across seven hills, will captivate you with its unique atmosphere, historic trams, views from viewpoints (miradouros), or the Alfama district with its narrow streets and fado clubs.

Porto, in the north of the country, is known for its historic center (UNESCO), the Dom Luís I Bridge, and of course, Port wine, which you can taste in one of the wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia on the other bank of the Douro River. The Algarve in southern Portugal, in turn, boasts dramatic cliffs, beautiful wild beaches, and charming historic towns like Lagos or Tavira.

💡Accommodation Tip: Quinta Nova Vale Del Rey

Madeira

Madeira, a Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean, offers pleasant temperatures around 21-23°C in May, with sea temperatures of 19-20°C. While the sea is still a bit cool for swimming, it’s warm enough for other activities. Funchal, the capital, is an excellent starting point for exploring the island. Visit the botanical garden, the Mercado dos Lavradores market with exotic fruits and fish, or taste the famous Madeira wine in one of the wineries.

The island is especially famous for its “levadas” – irrigation channels with hiking trails that lead through magnificent mountain scenery, lush forests, and valleys. Some of the most beautiful levadas are Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Levada das 25 Fontes, or Levada do Rei. For mountain hiking enthusiasts, there’s Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest mountain, or Pico do Arieiro, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise.

💡Accommodation Tip: Inn & Art Madeira

FAQ