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Where to go on holiday in May?

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Holidays in May

Why wait until summer when you can go on holiday in May? May is the perfect month for a holiday: it's warm in southern Europe, there are no crowds, and exotic destinations tempt you with great holiday prices and hot temperatures. Where to go on holiday in May? Discover our suggestions for holiday trips in May.

Is May a good month for a holiday?

Any time is a good time for a holiday and a break from work, right? There's no denying it! We usually go on holiday in the summer months, from the end of June to August, or September at the latest. Beautiful weather, heat and scorching sun are a mandatory part of a holiday for many tourists. However, travelling in summer also has its drawbacks: crowds of tourists, higher prices during the high season and unbearably high temperatures, which are becoming increasingly difficult to cope with in times of climate crisis. But what if... you opted for a holiday outside the high season and went on holiday in May?

May is the perfect month for a holiday. In May, spring has already come to life, nature looks stunning and is not yet burned by the summer sun, temperatures are not as deadly as in the summer months, and tourist destinations are cheaper than in high season and there are definitely less tourists. Travelling in spring has many advantages, not only for an unforgettable holiday, but also for the traveller's wallet. Where should you go on holiday in May? We have prepared the best destinations for your May holiday.

Where to go on holiday in May in Europe?

May travels in Europe? Whether you're looking for a short city break or a longer holiday, Europe offers many great destinations for a May holiday. This is the time when popular and beloved tourist destinations begin their tourist season, but without the crowds and higher prices in hotels and restaurants. Where to go in May to enjoy warm weather? Spain, Italy, Portugal, Greece, Croatia – discover the best destinations for a May trip to Europe and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of cities and unique local nature.

The Italian coast is particularly attractive in May

  • Southern Spain and the islands: Barcelona, Alicante, or maybe Malaga or Valencia? Spanish cities and coastlines offer temperatures above 22°C during the day and warm seas, which is the perfect combination for a holiday combined with sightseeing. The Canary Islands are also an attractive destination, offering year-round tourism. The weather in Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria never disappoints, and renting a car and exploring every corner of the island is a guarantee of a great holiday.
  • Thessaloniki, Athens or the Greek islands in the off-season: tzatziki, Greek pita bread, beautiful beaches and exploring ancient culture – Greece has a lot to offer in May. You can go on a city break to Thessaloniki or Athens, or visit Greek islands such as Crete or Zakynthos before the season starts. Santorini may turn out to be the best choice for a May holiday. An average temperature of 20°C around the clock and lower prices before the season are attractive arguments for spending your holiday on the island of Santorini.
  • The Adriatic: Italy, Croatia, or perhaps Montenegro or Albania? A holiday on the Adriatic Sea is a great idea for a May break. The Adriatic is a large sea with beaches belonging to many countries, so it is difficult to choose just one destination. Italy, Dalmatian Croatia, or lesser-known alternatives such as Montenegro and Albania are sure to satisfy your holiday needs.
  • Relaxation and sightseeingin Malta: Malta is the perfect combination of good weather, beach relaxation and interesting attractions. In May, the air temperature in Malta ranges between 25°C during the day and 16°C at night, allowing tourists to experience the local atmosphere of this amazing island.
  • May holidays in Cyprus: there is no better place for a holiday in May in Europe (although geographically in Asia!) than Cyprus. Sandy beaches, 25°C during the day, Cypriot-Greek food and reliable weather are a winning combination. Both the Greek and Turkish sides of the island are attractive places to stay.

Exotic holidays in May – where to go

Do you like temperatures above 30°C, exotic views, tasty and fresh fruit and out-of-this-world scenery? An exotic holiday in May is the best solution for you! May is the middle of spring, a warm month, but why rest at home in uncertain weather when you can lie on the beach all day and sit in a restaurant late in the evening when the temperature is over 25°C? May is a good month to plan an exotic holiday to avoid the crowds of tourists and enjoy the wonderful weather.

Where is the best place to go for an exotic holiday in May?

  • Holidays in Dubai: 35°C during the day, 31°C at night - it's not just the weather that makes May one of the best months to visit Dubai. The tourist season ends in April, so prices are lower and there are fewer crowds to explore the city in May. The great weather in May is perfect for relaxing on the beach and visiting the Burj Khalifa and other most important attractions in Dubai. In May, you will also pay less for accommodation in Dubai, even for luxury private apartments. When planning your May holiday in Dubai, it is worth checking out the offers of the Polish travel agency Two Continents, specialists in Dubai.
  • Northern and central Vietnam: sea temperatures of almost 30°C are just one of the many advantages of a holiday in Vietnam. Northern and central Vietnam in May is an attractive holiday destination: from exploring the country's capital, Hanoi, to relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang, cruising the beautiful Ha Long Bay and riding a scooter around the Ha Giang loop. Vietnam is a great idea for an unforgettable holiday, and what's more, it's very cheap: you can find hotels from 5 EUR per night and eat lunch for as little as 1 EUR!
  • Oman and other Middle Eastern countries: an average of 38°C during the day and 31°C at night – sounds like August? No, it's May in Oman. This country is a good choice for fans of heat and the Arab climate. If not Oman, other Middle Eastern countries offer similar attractions: Qatar, Bahrain and the recently increasingly popular Saudi Arabia.
  • Thailand before the rainy season: the beginning of May in Thailand is the best time for a holiday before the rainy season. In May, the average air temperature in Thailand is 34°C. Take a holiday and relax in paradise-like Phuket and eat unforgettable street food on the streets of Bangkok.
  • Dominican Republic: June to November is hurricane season in the Dominican Republic, and May is the last good month with reliable weather for a holiday: 27°C during the day and around 23°C at night, fewer tourists, lots of sun and the golden sandy beaches of Punta Cana – this is what a holiday in the Dominican Republic looks like.
  • The beautiful beaches of Mexico: May is a good time to relax on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. 28°C, sunshine and beaches in Cancún will allow you to relax and get to know Mexico to the rhythm of local music, while enjoying tacos and tortillas.
Dubai is the perfect destination for combining sightseeing and relaxation
Dubai is the perfect destination for combining sightseeing and relaxation

Where can you fly in May without a visa? Exotic holidays are even more enjoyable when you don't have to worry about formalities and visa issues. Where can you go on holiday to exotic countries without a visa (or with a free visa issued at the border)? You can spend an exotic holiday in May without a visa in: Dubai (free tourist visa stamped on arrival), Thailand (up to 30 days without a visa), Mexico, Dominican Republic (no visa for up to 30 days), Mauritius (up to 90 days without a visa) or Seychelles (up to 90 days without a visa).

All-inclusive holidays in May are a comfortable way to spend your vacation. A hotel room, swimming pool, plenty of food, drinks and swimming in the sea are the perfect recipe for a break from everyday life and a return to form after exhaustion. Where is the best place to relax from work on an all-inclusive May holiday? The most popular destinations for all-inclusive holidays are Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey, Cyprus, Greece and Dubai.

Where to go on holiday in May to be warm?

Most of us choose warm places for our holidays. Although holidays in cooler countries such as Norway or Iceland have recently been gaining popularity, plenty of sunshine and good conditions for sunbathing are still the most desirable conditions for a May holiday. Which countries are warm in May? We have compiled a list of the warmest places for a May holiday with average daytime temperatures throughout the month.

Where is it warm in May – list of countries:

  • Italy: around 23°C during the day, 18°C at night.
  • Spain: around 22°C during the day, 15°C at night.
  • Greece: around 24°C during the day, 16°C at night.
  • Cyprus: around 25°C during the day, 15°C at night.
  • Portugal: around 21°C during the day, 15°C at night.
  • Croatia: around 23°C during the day, 15°C at night.
  • Montenegro: around 22°C during the day, 15°C at night.
  • Malta: around 25°C during the day, 16°C at night.
  • Turkey: approx. 25°C during the day, 15°C at night.
  • Dominican Republic: approx. 29°C during the day, 24°C at night.
  • Mexico: approx. 28°C during the day, 25°C at night.
  • Maldives: approx. 29°C during the day, 28°C at night.
  • Egypt: approx. 26°C during the day, 22°C at night.
  • Tunisia: approx. 26°C during the day, 14°C at night.
  • Morocco: approx. 28°C during the day, 15°C at night.
  • Thailand: approx. 34°C during the day, 26°C at night.
  • United Arab Emirates: approx. 35°C during the day, 31°C at night.
  • Oman: approx. 38°C during the day, 31°C at night.
  • Caribbean and Florida: approx. 30°C during the day, 24°C at night.

Remember! The average temperature for the countries above is for the whole country - i.e. in warmer regions, by the sea in May, the weather will be even better.

Crete in the off-season means warm weather, beautiful views and no crowds
Crete in the off-season means warm weather, beautiful views and no crowds

May city breaks – the best cities for a weekend getaway

The middle of spring is the perfect time to visit European capitals and other beautiful cities on the Old Continent. The tourist season is just beginning in cities, accommodation is cheaper, restaurant prices are lower, and tourist attractions are less crowded, making May the best month for a quick, condensed trip around Europe. What are the best places for a May city break?

There are several ways to enjoy a May city break on your own: visit Madrid and explore the capital of Spain or relax for a few days in Barcelona. May is a good time for a weekend trip to Paris or Vienna. The English weather in May is not so bad, so a city break in London is a great idea. The large number of flights to Italy makes visiting Pisa, Bari or Milan even easier than before. Or maybe Scandinavia? A few days in Copenhagen or Stockholm sounds like a great idea for a short trip. For those who prefer a southern climate, Athens or Greece's second largest city, Thessaloniki, are the best choices. You can also head to Split or Dubrovnik to discover the beloved beauty of Croatia.

Holidays in May with children – the best places

You don't have to wait until summer to go on a great holiday with your children! May is a time of May holidays and other days off that allow families to enjoy an early summer break. Where to go on a family holiday in May to have a good time with attractions for children and parents alike, without spending a lot of money?

  • Turkey: a holiday in May in Turkey is a great choice for the whole family. Great weather, fantastic hotel infrastructure at reasonable prices with lots of attractions for children, warm sea and delicious Turkish food are a recipe for a successful holiday with the little ones.
  • Dubai: holidays with children in Dubai are a combination of something for both parents and kids: great attractions, water sports and warm sea with sunbathing on the beach. In Dubai, you can explore the city, spend the whole day in a water park or admire the city skyline from a yacht with music and attractions for children. Neither adults nor children will be bored in Dubai. And for adults... if you are interested in investing, check out how to make money from short-term rentals in Dubai and what kind of flat you can buy in Dubai for rent at Two Continents.
  • Spain: Barcelona, or perhaps Valencia or the Costa Brava, Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca - wherever you go in Spain with your family, you will find attractive beaches, great weather and create holiday memories for your children in a beautiful place.
  • Italy: A holiday in Italy is a good idea at any time of the year, especially with children. Whether you choose to explore Rome or sunbathe in Rimini, the combination of delicious food and Italian tourist infrastructure will ensure that you and your children have an unforgettable time. Italian campsites with swimming pools and play areas for children are a good choice for the May bank holiday.
  • Egypt: relaxation for parents and attractions for children? Choose an all-inclusive holiday in Egypt! A May holiday in Marsa Alam or Sharm El Sheikh will provide you with peace and comfort, and your children will not be bored and will enjoy plenty of good hotel food.

Where is the warmest sea water in May?

Do you love warm sea water? May is the month when the seas and oceans in many holiday destinations are perfect for swimming. The water will be above 30℃ on the island of Phuket in Thailand and the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico, and around 25-29℃ in places such as: the island of Bali (Indonesia), Cuba, the Maldives, the Seychelles, the island of Langkawi (Malaysia), Vietnam, the Dominican Republic and Dubai. If you are looking for something closer to Europe, you will find warm sea water in May in southern Turkey, Spain and Italy, as well as in Malta and Cyprus.

Türkiye offers a wide range of hotel facilities for families with children
Turkey offers a wide range of hotels for families with children

Where are the best diving conditions in May?

Diving enthusiasts cannot imagine a holiday without their passion. Taking your diving gear with you in May can be a great idea, as several places around the world offer ideal conditions for diving during this month. Where is the best place to go on holiday in May for the best diving conditions? The exotic charm and great weather in Mauritius are a combination that encourages diving in the beautiful coral reef of Blue Bay Marine Park. If we enter the world of the exotic, in May you can see whale sharks while diving in the Galapagos Islands and turtle eggs in Palau.

Where should you go on a road trip in May?

Road trips are one of the best ways to explore during your holidays. You can see much more in one trip than during a standard hotel stay. Road trips are organised by travel agencies, but you can also plan such a trip on your own. Where to go on a road trip in May?

  • Turkey, from Istanbul to the Turkish Riviera: travel agencies offer tours of Turkey, which seem like a very interesting option for a May holiday. During such a trip, you can relax on the Turkish Riviera, visit ancient monuments and discover the magic of the vast city of Istanbul.
  • A tour of Sicily: pistachios, arancini and amazing views - this is what Sicily has to offer. It is the perfect destination for a road trip or a bus tour to explore every corner of this Italian island.
  • Spanish Andalusia by car: southern Spain is one of the most beautiful regions in Europe. That's why it's worth flying to Andalusia, renting a car and going on a road trip to places such as Malaga, Seville, Granada, Cordoba and Caminito del Rey.

What are the cheapest holiday destinations in May?

Are you a student who doesn't want to spend too much before the summer, or maybe you just like budget trips? Holidays in May don't have to be expensive. Many destinations offer warm weather and great attractions for a small amount of money. Where can you go on a cheap trip in May?

  • Albania: this is one of the most interesting budget options in Europe. In May, temperatures in Albania often exceed 20℃, the beaches in the central and southern parts of the country are sandy and the water is blue, and most importantly... prices are still off-season, so accommodation in hotels or apartments near the beach is very cheap, and you will pay half as much for food in restaurants as you would in Italy or Greece.
  • Bulgaria: holidays in Bulgaria have been associated with cheap vacations for years. Golden Sands and the Burgas region offer inexpensive hotels, good restaurants and, above all, wide sandy beaches and relaxation by the Black Sea. May is a good time to look for organised holidays in Bulgaria through travel agencies, which offer promotional prices for holidays in Bulgaria before the season starts.
  • Romania: haven't you been to Romania yet? You don't know what you're missing! Beautiful cities such as Sibiu and Brașov, socialist realist Bucharest and little-known, inexpensive hotels on long, sandy beaches in southern Romania are a great idea for an inexpensive and original holiday.
  • Montenegro: a holiday in Montenegro is the most budget-friendly option for spending your May holiday in the Balkans – but lower prices do not mean lower quality! The stunning Bay of Kotor, beaches and hotels in Budva or Bar, as well as delicious Balkan food half the price of Croatia, make Montenegro an excellent holiday destination, especially in May before the tourist season.
Cyprus is a great holiday destination at any time of the year
Cyprus is a great holiday destination at any time of the year

Cheap holidays in May – where to look for deals?

If you don't like crowds during the high season and want to go on a cheap and warm holiday, you've come to the right place! You don't have to search for airline tickets on airline websites or browse accommodation websites – look for deals on the Facebook group Podróżnicze Hubcie. Flight deals from Two Continents guarantee cheap airline tickets not only for May holidays, but for every month of the year, Monday to Friday, all year round!

Questions and answers (FAQ):

  • Where to go on holiday in Europe in May?

May is the perfect month to plan a holiday in Europe during the off-season. There are fewer crowds and lower prices, and the most attractive destinations for a European holiday in May are the Greek islands, southern Spain, Sicily, Sardinia, Portugal and southern France.

  • Which countries are the warmest in May?

In many countries, you can expect fantastic weather in May. Temperatures above 30°C during the day can be found in more and less exotic places such as Dubai, Thailand, Vietnam, the Seychelles and Mauritius. You can expect temperatures above 25°C during the day in European countries such as Greece, Spain, Italy, Montenegro and Turkey.

  • Can you find cheap airline tickets in May?

Yes, May is a great time to look for cheap airline tickets. Just before the season, airlines often sell tickets at promotional prices, tempting passengers with low prices for attractive destinations. It is best to look for tickets about 3-4 months in advance and keep an eye out for cheap flights on the Facebook group Podróżnicze Hubcie.