Best Places to visit in Europe in May
Travel to the best European destinations in May. Benefit from prices up to twice cheaper on your accommodation and treat yourself to extras from a selection of tours & activities in Europe.
Travel in May and enjoy an uncrowded pool, more sunbeds available, fewer people, no need to book dinner, no need to rush for breakfast. A word of advice: if you want tranquillity, avoid hotels that organize weddings (there are many of them in May) and large resorts.
In May, opt for private villas, tourist apartments or boutique hotels on a human scale. Do not hesitate to book a 4- or 5-star hotel, they are up to 2 times cheaper in May than in July and August.
Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your tours and activities in Europe and discover the best destinations to visit in May in Europe.
1. Stockholm
Sweden
The cherry trees are in bloom, the terraces are open, Stockholm's parks and botanical gardens are also open and waiting for you. There are only good reasons to visit Stockholm in May. Even though Stockholm is magical at Christmas and its Christmas market is ranked among the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, we love to visit Stockholm in May.
In May, stay in Stockholm at a low price and enjoy the first days of sunshine in the Swedish capital. Take warm clothes in your suitcases but also some light clothes. Temperatures are around 15 degrees in May but they can rise to 27 degrees.
Book your flights to Stockholm, your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Stockholm such as a "Stockholm: Archipelago Kayaking Experience".
How to get there: Book your flights to Stockholm and your transfer.
Where to stay: "Downtown Camper by Scandic" offers a variety of daily activities for guests such as movie nights, yoga, kayaking and skateboarding lessons.
2. Rovinj
Istria - Croatia
Rovinj is synonymous with the sweetness of life, Mediterranean cuisine, sunshine, crystal clear waters, exceptional 4 and 5 star hotels, café terraces with their feet in the water.
Book your flights to Pula or Rijeka, your accommodation in Rovinj and in May discover one of the best places to visit in Croatia: Rovinj. Enjoy accommodation at prices up to 2 times cheaper than in summer, more space in the pool, more deckchairs available, less noise, no need to book the evening restaurant, fewer people.
More fun and more savings. Thanks to the savings you will be able to treat yourself to extras and discover the best tours and activities in Croatia such as a "Pula, Rovinj and Panoramic Istrian Coast Tour".
How to get there: Book your flights to Pula (40 min by car) or Rijeka (1h30).
Where to stay: "Hotel Lone" i sone of the best 5-star hotel in Europe.
3. Corfu
Greece
Many of you are wondering “What is the best month of the year to visit Corfu?” ".
You guessed it, the answer is May. Corfu is one of the most water-sufficient Greek islands thanks to abundant rains during the winter months and at the beginning of spring. Corfu is therefore magnificent after months of rain and the return of sunny days.
In May, flowers bloom in the 4 corners of this island. Corfu has been synonymous for a few years with well-being, relaxation, yoga, meditation, nature, simplicity. If you are planning a nature trip, trekking, or a meditation retreat, May is definitely a good month to discover Corfu. You travel outside school holidays and benefit from better prices on your accommodation, flights and tours and activities in Corfu such as a "Corfu: Full-Day Cruise to Blue Lagoon with Syvota Visit".
Book your flights to Corfu, your accommodation and your tours and activities and discover Corfu in May.
How to get there: Book your flights to Corfu and your transfer.
Where to stay: "Domes Miramare, Adults Only" features a restaurant, an outdoor pool and a fitness centre.
4. Hallstatt
Austria
The best time of the year to discover Hallstatt, this postcard village considered one of the best hidden gems in Austria, is definitely May. The worst time to discover it is certainly February because the weather is bad and many travellers take their annual leave at the end of January-beginning of February to discover Europe and its typical villages.
May is a perfect month to discover Hallstatt. The sun is back and the alleys are not as crowded as in February and not yet as crowded as in July and August.
Do not just stop and treat yourself to activities and tours in Hallstatt such as a cruise on the lake or a visit to the salt caves. If the village of Hallstatt is so beautiful it is thanks to the exploitation of salt mines which have considerably enriched the inhabitants for centuries.
Discover all the secrets of Hallstatt and discover the best of Austria, the Best places to visit in Austria, Best Castles in Austria, Best Natural Wonders in Austria or the best things to do in Austria and Best Ski resorts in Austria.
Book your flights to Salzburg or Vienna, your accommodation in Hallstatt or Vienna and your tours and activities in Austria.
How to get there: Book your flights to Salzburg (1h by car / 2h by train) or Vienna (3h).
Where to stay: “B&B Haus Hemetzberger” featuring mountain views.
5. Puerto de la Cruz
Tenerife - Canary Islands
Treat yourself to a moment of pure freedom. Travel out of season. Accommodation twice as cheap as well as less crowdy tours and activities, Tenerife is heaven on earth in May.
Few people know it but the high tourist season is in December-January-February in Tenerife. This is when the English, Germans, Belgians and French come to the Canary Islands to enjoy the sun they lack. Summer is also quite more expensive because everyone is on holiday including the Spaniards who also want to enjoy their exceptionally beautiful islands. April-May are good months to discover the Canary Islands.
If you want an all-in holiday with cocktails, pool, beach, nightclubs, book your stay on the Costa Adeje. If the most important thing for you is the beauty of the landscapes and lush nature, book your stay in the North of the Island in Puerto de la Cruz. In May car rentals are cheaper than in summer, take the opportunity to discover the treasures of Tenerife such as the Masca Valley.
Book your flights to Tenerife your accommodation in Costa Adeje or Puerto de la Cruz and your tours and activities in Tenerife such as a "Masca and Los Gigantes Whale Watching Cruise".
How to get there: Book your flights to Tenerife.
Where to stay: "Jardin de la Paz" provides an outdoor swimming pool and lush gardens.
6. Iceland
May is certainly one of the best months to discover Iceland because the sunny days are back. Rest assured if you are a fan of lunar landscapes, most of Iceland's nature wonders are still so dramatic in spring, even if some are brightened up with a few wild flowers.
Forget sunbathing and lazing on the beach. Temperatures in May range from 2 degrees in the morning to 11 degrees at the hottest during the day. In May in Iceland, you enjoy maximum sunshine compared to the winter months. At this time of year, the sun rises at 5 a.m. and sets at 10 p.m.
Another good reason to visit Iceland in May? May is one of the least rainy months of the year. Want a frosty wedding? Iceland is ranked among your best wedding destinations in Europe!
Book your flights to Reykjavik, your accommodation at the best price and your tours & activities in Iceland such as a "Crystal Ice Cave Tour".
How to get there: Book your flights to Reykjavík.
Where to stay: "Paradise Cave Hostel & Guesthouse". Guests will be able to enjoy activities like hiking.
7. Tbilisi
Georgia
Tbilisi is a destination to discover all year round, but it is really sparkling and blossoming in May. Multi-cultural city considered as one of the trendiest destinations in Europe, Tbilisi is a perfect destination for a cultural city break, a romantic getaway, or a getaway with friends.
Tbilisi will also appeal to shopping lovers, nature lovers, wine lovers, history, and architecture enthusiasts. Tbilisi is one of the most active city in Europe.
Book your flights to Tbilisi, your accommodation, and your tours & activities in Tbilisi such as a "From Tbilisi: Kakheti Wine Region Full-Day Group Tour".
How to get there: Book your flights to Tbilisi and your transfer.
Where to stay: "Taberne Boutique Hotel Tbilisi". Stay in the heart of Tbilisi.
8. Heviz
Hungary
Considered the best wellness destination in Hungary, Heviz is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway in May. Héviz, the second most popular destination in Hungary, has proclaimed in recent years a must-see wellness destination.
Relaxation and well-being are your key words for a great holiday? Hévíz is the answer. Actually, "Hévíz" means "hot water" in Hungarian and the city is so named thanks to the world's largest natural thermal lake. Imagine a whole city surrounded by lush forests and dedicated to relaxation!
Located near Budapest and Vienna, Hévíz has been welcoming spa visitors since the 18th century. It's probably the only spa destination where you can swim among white, pink and purple lilies, enjoy relaxing thermal mud massages on a pavilion floating on the lake, canoe in the steamy warm water of the Hévíz stream or have a winter swim in the 24° C thermal lake, while big snowflakes fall around you…
Book your flights to Budapest, your accommodation at the best price and come relax in the European capital of well-being.
How to get there: Book your flights to Budapest (2h by car, 3h by train).
Where to stay: “Ensana Thermal Aqua” located just 500 meters from the thermal lake.
9. Paris
France
Ella Fitzgerald used to sing "I love Paris in the Spring, I love Paris in Autumn, I love Paris in winter when it drizzles, I love Paris in Summer when it sizzles"... We agree with her 100%, Paris is a destination to visit all year round.
May heralds the return of spring, of strolling through the sublime parks of Paris (Parc des Buttes Chaumont, Parc Monceau, Jardin du Luxembourg, etc.). The days are getting longer, friends and lovers sit on the terraces of Paris.
The dark coats of winter are stored in their wardrobes and light outfits, spring dresses, shorts and t-shirts are out… Parisians are more relaxed, the summer holidays are approaching and many outdoor events, concerts, cultural creations are organized in the 4 corners of the capital.
Book your flights to Paris, your accommodation in Paris and your tours & activities in Paris such as a "Paris: 1-hour River Seine Cruise" and visit the most beautiful city in the world in May.
Need inspiration? Discover the best destinations to visit in France, Most beautiful beaches in France and Best Hidden Gems in France.
How to get there: Book your flights to Paris and your transfer from the Airport.
Where to stay: "Le Pigalle Hotel" just a 5-minute walk from Montmartre.
10. Budva
Montenegro
You will fall in love with Montenegro and its authentic and sunny destinations like Kotor, Perast and Budva. Montenegro is ranked among your best hikes in Europe but also best road trips in Europe.
Considered one of the most beautiful fortified towns in the Balkans, Budva offers holidaymakers sunshine, gastronomy, crystal clear waters, several small islands, public or private beaches and numerous water activities.
Want privacy? Treat yourself to an afternoon on St Nicholas Island facing Budva. This small island has 3 large beaches and several very pretty small ones. If you are lucky you may come across some deer on the wild side of this small island.
Book your flights and accommodation at the best price in Budva and take the ferry (line Lepetane - Kamenari) to reach the island of St Nicholas ( ten minutes). "Hotel Kadmo", features a restaurant and an outdoor pool.
How to get there: Book your flights to Tivat Airport (25 min by car), Podgorica (1h) or Dubrovnik (2h by car).
Where to stay: "Hotel Kadmo", features a restaurant and an outdoor pool.
11. Dinant & Namur
Belgium
For several years, two of the most beautiful towns in Wallonia have decided to join forces to offer visitors gastronomic, cultural, cocooning and romantic stays along the river “Meuse”. In May, discover Dinant la Merveilleuse, its citadel, its fortress, its shopping streets and its brasseries and restaurants. Want a drink ? Sit on a terrace at the Croisette and taste a “Leffe”. This internationally renowned beer was born in Dinant, at the Abbaye de Leffe.
Peckish ? Discover the couques de Dinant, gigantic biscuits representing the symbols of Dinant, its famous rock "Bayard" or the Saxophone (invented by Adolphe Sax in Dinant).
Are you a player? Visit the Casino de Namur or save your money for shopping in the shopping streets of the elegant capital of Wallonia. Do not miss to visit the Félicien Rops Museum, an artist with a 100% Belgian universe. During your stay, enjoy local beers such as "Houppe" or "La Philomène" with some strawberries from Wépion, the best strawberries in Belgium or with Belgian fries.( Did you know that fries were born in Namur?).
In May discover two 100% authentic and unique destinations, visit Namur & Dinant and treat yourself to a nature & culture getaway.
How to get there: Book your flights to Brussels South (Charleroi - 30 min by car) or Brussels Airport (Zaventem - 45 min by car).
Where to stay: "Le Rouge-Gorge" located in the heart of nature 20 minutes from Dinant.
12. Bonifacio
Corsica - France
Corsica is a destination with a strong identity. Corsica will suit travellers looking for authentic destinations with incredible culture, landscapes and gastronomy. May is the perfect month to discover Bonifacio located in the south of Corsica.
You will appreciate the sun during your hike in the Corsican mountains, your lazy day on the beach or simply during a pure moment of chill-out with a glass of "liqueur de Myrte", a 100% Corsican alcohol.
In May accommodation is up to 40% cheaper than in summer in Bonifacio. Less crowded in May, discover Corsica at your own pace, its most beautiful places and share moments with the locals.
How to get there: Book your flights to "Figari - South Corsica" airport and your hotel at the best price in Bonifacio.
Where to stay: "Solemare Bonifacio". This hotel is located in the heart of medieval Bonifacio.
13. Torquay
Devon - England
In May visit the English Riviera. Torquay is a bit like Cannes or Nice on the French Riviera. It is one of the most beautiful destinations of the English Riviera with a pleasant climate, healthy air and warm winds favourable to the development of tropical plants.
Explore Torquay, the Birthplace of Agatha Christie, the most famous crime writer of all time. Discover Torquay UNESCO Global Geopark and its breath-taking landscape or taste the best of England's Seafood in Torquay's many restaurants.
Extend your stay and discover the most beautiful beaches in England, the best nature wonders, the most amazing hidden gems in England and the best places to visit in England.
How to get there: Book your flights to Plymouth (1 hour by car, 1 hour 30 by train).
Where to stay: "The Osborne Apartments" located 2 minutes from the beach with pool and restaurant.
14. Ghent
Belgium
With its majestic castle ranked among the most beautiful castles in Europe, Ghent will appeal to lovers of history, architecture but not only. Ghent and its preserved historic centre is also a dynamic, student, commercial and culturally vibrant city.
It is with Leuven probably one of the two best destinations to visit in Flanders. You probably know Bruges and Brussels and Antwerp even. Ghent brings together the best of them all. It is as cosmopolitan and lively as Antwerp, as calming as a walk along the canals in Bruges and a gastronomical delight of beers and waffles as in Brussels.
Ghent is also one of the safest destinations in Europe but also one of the most romantic destinations. There are only good reasons to visit Ghent in May.
How to get there: Book your flights to Brussels Airport (40 min by car – 1h by train).
Where to stay: "Yalo Urban Boutique Hotel Gent" perfect for a 3-night stay it is situated in the best rated area in Ghent.
15. Scilla
Calabria - Italy
In May discover Calabria and Sicily and climb to the top of the castle of "Castelo Ruffo". Overlooking the magnificent fine sandy beach of Scilla, a perfect destination for a holiday combining relaxation, sun, gastronomy and culture, Castelo Ruffo is one of the emblems of Scilla. If the view from the castle is spectacular, so is the east from the "Spiaggia Di Scilla" beach from where you can see the castle built on a rocky outcrop.
Take the ferry at “Villa San Giovanni” and reach Sicily and the port of “Messina Marritima” in 20 min. Sicily, the Birthplace of many American people like Lady Gaga or Sylvester Stallone is an incredible destination. You know of course Mount Etna, the highest active Volcano in Europe, ranked among the best natural wonders in Italy.
During your stay discover the Spiaggia di Mondello in Palermo ranked among your best beaches in Italy, or Taormina, ranked among the best destinations for celebrities in Europe. Are you a nature lover? Visit "Scala dei Turchi" ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Italy and best nature wonders in Italy. There are only good reasons to visit Sicily in May.
How to get there: Book your flights to Lamezia Airport (1H by car – 1h20 by train) or Reggio Calabria Airport (1h20 by car)
Where to stay: "Hotel Scilla" located 10 minutes’ walk from the sea.
16. Dubrovnik
Croatia
If it is not uncommon to meet celebrities, former American presidents, singers, actors in Dubrovnik, or to see the filming of films or cult series there. Dubrovnik, one of the best medieval destinations in Europe and among the Best destinations to visit in Croatia, is also a top destination to visit in May.
Discover the fortified city before the high season (July/August) and benefit from accommodation up to 60% cheaper. Thanks to this saving, stay in a 4- or 5-star hotel in Dubrovnik or an all-inclusive resort, facing the sea.
During your stay in Dubrovnik, be sure to visit Cavtat, its hidden beach is among the most beautiful beaches in Croatia.
Extend your stay by a few days and treat yourself to a road trip in Croatia. Discover the best hidden gems of Croatia, best beaches in Croatia, most amazing castles in Croatia as well as the best nature wonders in Croatia.
Book your flights to Dubrovnik, your accommodation in Dubrovnik and your tours & activities in Dubrovnik as a "Elaphite Islands Day Trip from Dubrovnik".
How to get there: Book your flights to Dubrovnik and your transfer.
Where to stay: "Hotel Excelsior". The Old Town Port is 600 m away.
17. Polperro
Cornwall - England
In May discover one of the best hidden gems in England and one of the Most Romantic Destinations for Valentine’s Day: Polperro. This small village in Cornwall is one of the best destinations for a romantic getaway. A 50 minutes' drive from Plymouth Airport, Polperro is a small fishing village which is becoming a popular destination for lovers, art lovers, nature lovers, gastronomy.
Many artists have lived in this village in Cornwall and painted its quiet and peaceful life. You will certainly meet a few, painting outdoors or exhibiting in one of Polperro's many small art galleries.
Book your flights to Plymouth, your accommodation in Polperro and your tours & activities in Cornwall such as a “Surfin Lesson in Newquay”.
During your stay, be sure to visit the best hidden gems in England, Most amazing nature wonders in England and the Best Castles in England.
How to get there: Book your flights to Plymouth (50 min by car, 2 hours by train).
Where to stay: “Claremont Hotel” with an excellent location in Polperro.
18. Hel Peninsula
Pomerania - Poland
In May discover the kilometric beaches of Hel Island in Poland. A 100% Nature destination, Hel Island will appeal to lovers of hiking, relaxation and wellness. This long strip of sand stretches for 35 km and its width varies from 3 km to 100 m, with the Bay of Puck on one side and the Baltic Sea on the other.
Treat yourself to a full-time relaxation holiday on the beaches of Hel and discover its seal centre. Outside the high season (July and August) take advantage of better prices on accommodation on Hel Peninsula and treat yourself to little extras such as dinners in the many seafood restaurants on this real paradise Peninsula.
If your friends ask you "Where are you going on holiday this year?" you can answer them "I’m going to Hel".
Book your flights to Gdansk (1h20 by car) as well as your accommodation, tours and activities in Poland such as a "Gdansk: Hel Peninsula Private Guided Tour with Cruise or Car)".
How to get there: Book your flights to Gdansk (1h20 by car - 2H20 by public transport).
Where to stay: "Hotel Dom Zdrojowy Resort & Spa" it features a swimming pool, saunas a steam bath and a gym.
19. Bremen
Germany
Want 3 good reasons to visit Bremen? You ranked it among the best hidden gems in Germany, Best Places to Visit in Germany and Best Christmas Markets in Germany.
This year discover Bremen in May and stroll through the cobbled streets of this charming and authentic destination. Bremen is a port city located in the north of Germany. Despite being one of the largest cities in the country, it remains a hidden gem for travellers looking for unusual destinations.
Thanks to its port, Bremen town hall which now houses a is a rich city with a very pretty historic centre surrounded by medieval ramparts. Travellers also like the "Marktplatz", the market square on which stands the "Rathaus", the former restaurant offering more than 500 German wines.
Book your flights to Bremen and your accommodation and your tours and activities in Bremen, such as a walking tour of the medieval Schnoor neighbourhood.
How to get there: Book your flights to Bremen or Hamburg (1h30 by car - 2h by train).
Where to stay: “Monopol Boutique Hotel”, one of our bestsellers in Bremen.
20. Amsterdam
Netherlands
Many of you are wondering “When is the best time of year to visit Amsterdam?” ". The answer is probably May. Cycling through the streets of Amsterdam is more pleasant in spring than in winter. This is also the case for canal cruises, drinks on the terrace, activities & tours in and around Amsterdam such as a "From Amsterdam: Fast-Track Keukenhof Ticket and Transfer".
In spring marvel at Keukenhof's tens of thousands of colourful tulips, get away from the city and stroll along the canals and discover the Windmills of Zaanse Schanse, one of your best hidden gems in The Netherlands.
There are only good reasons to visit Amsterdam in May. Need inspiration? Discover your best things to do in the Netherlands, the most amazing hidden gems in The Netherlands, the best beaches in The Netherlands and Best places to visit in The Netherlands.
How to get there: Book your flights to Amsterdam.
Where to stay: "CklinkNOORD Hostel" situated in the culturally vibrant Amsterdam Noord Area.
21. Ile aux Moines
Brittany - France
In May, before the high season (July - August) discover the best places to visit in France. Île aux moines (Morbihan – Brittany) is one of the most beautiful and largest islands in Brittany. Probably inhabited by a Hermit monk centuries ago, it is now popular with travellers in search of nature, authenticity and simplicity.
The "Grande Plage", with its beach huts, is considered one of the best beach hut destinations in Europe and among the most beautiful beaches in France.
People come here to admire the fauna and flora and taste the famous oysters with a hint of lemon.
Take the train to Vannes then bus 23 towards Larmor Baden (stop at Port-Blanc) or reach the île aux-moines by car (drive to the "Port-Blanc" car park in Baden). Do you travel by plane? Book your flights to Lorient, Nantes or Rennes.
How to get there: Book your flights to Lorient (1h20), Nantes (2h), or Rennes Airport (2h).
Where to stay: "Hotel Restaurant Les Venetes" Set on the beachfront.
22. Siena
Italy
Whether you write it Siena or Sienna, it's the same city, one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany and Italy. The historic center of Siena has also been declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
This medieval city has everything to seduce you. You can visit the "Piazza del Campo" Siena Cathedral, the "Palazzo Pubblico" and also treat yourself to some extras among the best tours and activities in Siena, such as a "San Gimignagno half-day tour” to immerse yourself in one of the most beautiful town of Tuscany or take a "Guided cellars tour with a visit of a famous medieval castle in the heart of Tuscany“.
How to get there: Book your flights to Florence (1h by car – 1h30 by public transport).
Where to stay: "B&B La Terrazza Sul Campo". Stay in the heart of Siena.
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