What are the best countries to visit in May? I’m often wondering this because I like to go away during my birthday in May, make use of the May bank holidays, and the kids are on school holidays so a holiday in May is very appealing!
Europe is warming up but it’s not yet too hot or too busy, and in May, Asia is on the edge of its hot and often wet season, making this the last month that some countries are truly enjoyable. And, the rain is stopping in many African countries.
In this post, I’ve detailed ideas for where to go on Holiday in May whether you are wanting a long weekend break, a week away with the kids in the school holiday, a European beach break before it gets too hot or you want an adventure in South Asia and South America!
Where to go on holiday in May
If you’re reading this post because you are looking to book a family trip with the children during the May school holiday, I have to say that I think it’s actually better to do your ‘summer holiday’ in this May school break before prices rise hugely in the summer school holidays! So lets get into it!
1. ALBANIA
Albania is all the rage right now! 2 years ago in early May, I went to Northern Albania driving from an airport in Montenegro and doing a North Albania and Kosovo road trip and it was a great time. The weather was warm, even in the mountainous regions but it wasn’t too busy. We went to Theth, a small mountain village and I read it gets extremely busy in the summer months with locals and tourists escaping the heat but in May we saw enough tourists to make it enjoyable but also, hardly anyone!
The beaches of Albania are the most popular area of the country right now, with many people accessing them by flying into Corfu and taking the ferry across as flights into that area are limited. Come summer, this area is extremely busy, especially now it’s so popular but May offers a quieter shoulder season but still with good weather.
Related Posts: How to Visit Theth For One Day! Theth, Albania Day Trip \ How to Get from Montenegro to Albania With Car Hire TIPS!
2. ICELAND
When wondering where to visit in May, Iceland is a great choice if you want adventure in Europe but not sunny city or beach break. I ran a group tour to Iceland in May the other year and it was a fantastic time to visit! We were wrapped up in jackets for some of the trip but at the end of the trip (which was the end of May), the sun came out and it was just about t-shirt weather and it felt amazing!
You can never predict the weather in Iceland and you need to prepare for everything. In May in Iceland, we had a lot of wind and some grey skies which made some of our plans change but that’s just a trip to Iceland for you. I went back to Iceland the following February when it was full of snow and although it was enjoyable for a winter trip, May was much better and this is when I’d do a family trip to Iceland! The hot springs are enjoyable, so are the waterfalls and the hiking paths are starting to open in May too in Iceland.
RELATED POST: Visiting Iceland in May and June – What it’s Like, Weather & What to Pack! \ EPIC 4 Day Iceland Itinerary for Winter or Summer!
3. GREECE
Greece is a summer holiday favourite but the prices rise so much come July & August which is why I think Greece is great to visit in May, and the May school holiday if that’s what you’re planning!
Flights may still be quite pricey at the end of May because of the school holidays but probably not as much as later in the summer, and accommodation prices will be slightly lower to accommodate the shoulder season, and, there will be reduced crowds.
For where to go on holiday in May, Greece offers so many island options from the popular ones of Santorini, Corfu and Kos to Serifos, Lefkada and Milos! Here are the 16 BEST Greek Islands for Families to Visit!
4. SPAIN
For the best countries to visit in May, Spain is a winner and a winner for most of the year to be honest. I did an Andalusian road trip from Malaga in May and it was perfect, the weather was hot and sunny and much better than the UK in May, but it wasn’t yet sweltering and it made a road trip very comfortable.
If you want pure summer holiday vibes but in May, head to the Canary Islands where the heat will be even higher in May thanks to its location.
Related post: Southern Spain Itinerary COMPLETE GUIDE – Short or Long Trip!
5. ITALY
2 years ago, I booked us a family holiday to Lake Garda for the May school holiday and it was ideal! Even though the weather was warm and great, this area was only just opening up for tourism in May before the summer months started so although there were people around, it wasn’t too busy!
We went to the waterpark in Lake Garda and had zero queues, the boys went in the lake (although it was cold!) and we managed to find parking everywhere we went whilst feeling like it was a summer holiday, and I know it gets much busier later in the summer.
I’d say to avoid Italian cities later in the summer, but May is a great month to visit the cities before they get too hot!
6. NORWAY
Norway makes for one of the best countries to visit in May because it’s out of its cold winter season and heading into summer with fewer summer crowds. It’s also ideal, like Iceland, if you want an adventure holiday hiking and seeing dramatic scenery and aren’t bothered by the weather, as May can still be unpredictable and is very much spring like weather.
For one of the best countries to visit in May, Norway offers great road trip opportunities, we went from Bergen to Alesund the other year, or you can have a city break in Oslo, Tromso, or Stavanger.
2 Days in Oslo | Itinerary for the City & Day Trip Ideas! / 20 BEST Things To Do in Stavanger – Hikes, Cruises, Museums!
7. UNITED KINGDOM
I live in Manchester so I have to include the UK on this list because it can be really nice in May, and I actually prefer the UK in May and June to July and August!
For a May holiday ideas, think about a trip to Wales, visit the beaches of Pembrokeshire or have a city break in Cardiff with a combined hike in the Brecon Beacons, or conquer the highest mountain in Wales, Mount Snowdon, I’ve hiked it in May and it was one of the best times to do it!
Scotland is also a great option in May, the weather is improving and there is no sign of the nasty summer midges in May which put a lot of people off. You can head up into the Highlands and up to the Isle of Skye and are likely to get some nice spring sunny days!
Related posts: 55 GREAT Wales Road Trip Stops From a Local! / 5 Day Scotland Itinerary with MAP Visiting Scotlands TOP Attractions!
8. TÜRKİYE
Türkiye is one of the best countries to visit in May, as it offers visitors so much with hot but more manageable temperatures than the summer months.
If you want an all inclusive holiday in May, Türkiye is ideal for this as the temperatures on the coast are hot and perfect for swimming and sunbathing (although the pools might still be a tad chilly!), head to the Antalya, Fethiye or Marmaris for this.
Cappadocia is one of my favourite places with its unique fairy rock formations and May makes for a good month for hot air balloon rides, in fact, historically, May is the month of the year with the most balloon take offs as they like clear, non windy and dry mornings which May provides.
Istanbul is always great for a city break and it’s best to get a trip in here before the heat rises as come June to August it’s very hot! Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and bustling Grand Bazaar and the Bosphorus in May in an enjoyable way.
Related posts: What’s The BEST Time to Visit Cappadocia? Weather By Month! / Where to Stay in Istanbul! 10 BEST Neighbourhoods in Istanbul to Stay in!
9. GEORGIA
A few years ago I went to Georgia in mid-May and it was perfect! I went with my dad and we were comfortable in jeans, t-shirt and a light jacket in late May and it was the perfect weather for city sightseeing.. and there’s a lot to see in Tbilisi! It gets really hot in Georgia come summer, but it’s also very cold in winter, even in the capital city of Tbilisi so May is the perfect shoulder season where it’s warm and enjoyable and everything is open but not sweltering hot!
You might not have thought about a city break to Tbilisi but it’s so ideal! It really is Europe meets Asia with so many places to see in the city like historical builders, parks and walks along the river, plus it’s easy to do day trips to nearby areas. We did a day trip to Kazbegi in the Caucasus Mountains and you can head into the countryside to see their wine valley!
Related posts: A Full and Detailed Tbilisi Travel Guide & Tbilisi City Guide! \ How to go on a Kazbegi Tour from Tbilisi – Day Trip!
10. IRAQ
If you fancy an Arab adventure, over the last few years, I’ve seen friends I know travel to Iraq in May and it looks like an ideal month!
Firstly, Iraq is open and easy to get a visa for most countries compared to when it was closed off a few years ago. And in May, the weather is warm without being too hot.
Thanks to its manageable spring temperatures, May gives the chance to explore historic sites like Babylon and the ancient cities of Mesopotamia before the intense summer heat arrives. In May, travellers can comfortably experience Iraq’s archaeological treasures, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks while enjoying some of the most pleasant weather of the year.
11. UAE
If you want to visit the Gulf outside of the winter months, May is a good time of the year to go before it gets disgustingly hot and you barely want to go outside.
I went to Dubai at the start of May the other year and whilst it was hot, it was manageable and enjoyable and it was a total contrast to going to Abu Dhabi in the July where it was very hot and I didn’t want to go outside during the day.
Keep in mind that Dubai is a bit cooler than Abu Dhabi but you also have the resort areas of Ras al Khaimah to enjoy too if you want an all inclusive pool holiday in May which is also perfect for the May school holiday!
Related posts: PERFECT 5 Day Dubai Itinerary! See the BEST of Dubai 5 Days! / 20 BEST Places To Visit in the UAE! Alternative Destinations!
12. PAKISTAN
Another idea if you are after an adventure is Pakistan! I’ve been to Pakistan twice in Autumn however many of the reasons it was great in Autumn is the same as spring.
Pakistan is one of the best countries to visit in May thanks to its diverse landscapes and pleasant spring weather, particularly in the northern regions where temperatures are ideal for exploring mountains, valleys, and cultural sites. During this time, destinations such as Hunza Valley, Skardu, and Gilgit come alive with blooming flowers, clear skies, and spectacular views of the Karakoram mountain range.
May is also an excellent month to experience Pakistan’s outdoor adventures and rich heritage, from trekking near some of the world’s highest peaks to visiting historic forts, traditional villages, and vibrant local markets. With many northern roads and attractions reopening after winter.
Related posts: A 2 Week Pakistan Itinerary to Northern Pakistan & the Cities! / What To Wear in Pakistan! Tourist Packing List & Dress Code!
13. UZBEKISTAN
I went to Uzbekistan last April and my guide told me it was similar in April to in May. Uzbekistan is one of the unique May holiday ideas for many but it is a country that is starting to boom with tourism and if it’s been on your radar, you should get there soon!
Exploring the famous Silk Road cities of Uzbekistan in May is ideal because destinations such as Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are particularly beautiful, with comfortable weather for wandering through historic streets, colourful bazaars, and magnificent Islamic architecture.
May is also a perfect time to experience Uzbekistan’s rich culture and heritage without the intense summer heat that will soon follow! I had friends going to Uzbekistan in August after I’d been in April and let’s say I wasn’t jealous at all as I could only imagine how hot it would be in August!
Related posts: Halal Travel in Uzbekistan – Why Go to Uzbekistan as a Muslim Traveller! / What to Wear in Uzbekistan As a Tourist! Inside and Outside of Tourist Attractions!
14. CHINA
Another one of the countries I have visited and spent my birthday in during May is China! From what I see on YouTube, China is becoming more and more popular to visit now that the visa entry has eased and their mega cities continue booming.
Therefore, China is among the best countries to visit in May because late spring brings milder temperatures, blooming landscapes, and excellent conditions for exploring the country’s vast cultural and natural attractions. Within 3 weeks in May we travelled a lot of China and switched between shorts & t-shirts and jeans and a down jacket as the climate in China varies so much but overall, it was a great time to go!
During this time of year, many of China’s famous landmarks and scenic areas are at their most beautiful, with lush greenery and colourful flowers across parks, mountains, and historic sites. Travellers can experience ancient temples, bustling cities, and traditional towns while enjoying one of the most pleasant months to explore the country, making China one of the best countries to visit in May.
Related posts: 10 Things To Know About Train Travel in China! / Camping on The Great Wall of China – What it’s Like & How You Can Do it!
15. JAPAN
East Asia is really great to visit in May and ideal for the May school holiday, especially if your kids have 2 weeks off. Japan is widely considered one of the best countries to visit in May because the country enjoys mild spring temperatures, clear skies, and comfortable conditions for exploring its cities, temples, and natural landscapes.
The cherry blossom season will be mostly finished, but that’s not a bad thing as this season brings a lot of visitors to the country and booked out accommodation! On this note, there is Golden Week at the start of May which is a national holiday and also results in booked out accommodation and transport, so check the dates of Golden Week in May so you can avoid it!
May in Japan brings a variety of seasonal activities and cultural experiences across Japan and enjoy outdoor experiences such as hiking, cycling, and visiting flower parks filled with wisteria and azaleas. With pleasant weather and vibrant seasonal events, Japan stands out as one of the best countries to visit in May for culture, nature, and sightseeing.
Related posts: 2 Week Japan Itinerary Perfect For Your First Trip to Japan! / 16 FREE Things To Do in Japan In Japan’s Most Popular Cities!
16. SOUTH KOREA
Another country I’ve personally visited in May is South Korea, I did a 10 day trip visiting Busan, Jeju Island and Seoul and it was great!
Like many of the countries on this list of where to go on a trip in May, South Korea is getting into its summer season with warm and dry weather before the humid monsoon weather of the summer months hit. I had a mixture of blue sky dates and cloudy days in late May but overall, it was always warm and t-shirt weather.
May is also a fantastic time to experience South Korea’s seasonal festivals and outdoor activities. Travellers can visit beautiful flower festivals, including rose and spring blossom events, explore scenic mountain trails in national parks, and stroll through traditional villages and lively street markets. With mild weather and vibrant spring scenery across the country, South Korea easily ranks among the best countries to visit in May for culture, nature, and city exploration.
Related posts: 10 Day South Korea Itinerary – Seoul, Busan & Jeju Island! / 10 Things To Do in Busan
17. INDONESIA
I was in Indonesia during the lockdown months which meant I spent all of May on the Gili Islands and I can’t recommend Lombok and the Gili Islands enough in Indonesia in May! The winter months in Bali, Lombok & Gili Islands bring rain whereas the summer months bring clear blue skies and May is the start of the summer and lovely weather.
If you do want more of an adventure in Indonesia in May, good areas of Indonesia to visit are the Komodo Islands and National Park because of calm seas in May so you can do a multi day trip and see Komodo Dragons alongside diving and snorkelling.
Java and Sumatra are also islands with good weather for travelling around in May and these two provide the ultimate off the beaten path adventure in Indonesia!
Related posts: BEST 2 Week Bali, Gili Islands & Lombok Itinerary! / Gili Islands Indonesia – Your Complete Guide To Visiting Gili! / DETAILED Lombok Itinerary For The BEST Places to Visit in Lombok!
18. MALAYSIA
Malaysia is one of those countries where part of it is good to visit in one season and not the other. In May, the Eastern part of Malaysia is the best to visit weatherise so if you want an island beach break, head to the Perhentian islands which are only open from March to September. I went a few years ago in May and they are 2 truly beautiful islands mostly visited by backpackers and locals.
If Langkawi and Penang in the West are on your list, you will likely experience rain as its on the shoulder season but you should benefit from lower accommodation prices because of this.
For where to go on holiday in May, also think about Borneo! In May, Borneo has excellent weather making it ideal for visiting national parks, hiking Mount Kinabalu, or seeing Orangutans… what a way to spend the kids school holiday if that’s what you’re booking!
Related posts: Travel GUIDE to Perhentian Kecil, the Small Perhentian Island!
19. VIETNAM
If South East Asia is on your radar for a holiday in May, especially a budget holiday in May (once you’re there that is!), Vietnam is great. It is very much a transition month from the cooler winter months going into the hot and humid months so temperatures will of course will be high but in central and northern Vietnam you will have nice drier days.
Halong Bay is a great place to visit for a few days on a boat trip from Hanoi in the North and such an adventure for families. If you want to go hiking, Sapa in Northern Vietnam is perfect, it actually gets cold here in winter so in May its warmer and more enjoyable.
20. TUNISIA
Tunisia is a firm favourite for families looking for an all inclusive holiday in May during the school holidays. It’s quicker to fly to Tunisia than Greece with just a 3 hour flight time and you’ll be feeling like you’re having your actual summer holiday in Tunisia in May.
Come summer, Tunisia gets very hot with 40c temperatures but in May it’s more manageable and warm enough for days by the pool, in the sea and sunbathing. I went to Tunisia in June and it was pure bliss for a holiday!
If you want an all inclusive holiday, you’ll be flying into Enfidha as many of the hotels are around the Hammamet area on the coast. If you want a trip you’re booking yourself, the capital city Tunis is great in May with the old city to visit, the famous blue seaside town of sidi bou said. Tunisia is also great for an off the beaten path road trip as many ruins and ancient temples can be found inland.
Related posts: Tunisia Itinerary | 3 Days in Tunis, Hammamet & Sousse
21. MOROCCO
Another North African gem in May is Morocco, again, it’s much closer to the UK and many European countries than going over to central Asia and the weather is hot!
If you’re looking for a family holiday in May, Morocco is great, especially along the coast. I went to Taghazout for a surf and yoga holiday many years ago in April and with a wetsuit it was comfortable in the sea and let’s say we did yoga early morning to avoid the heat, so in May it will be even better!
Another option, if you want a hot summer holiday in an all inclusive hotel is Marrakesh. Marrakesh is going to be hot in May and maybe not manageable for everyone if you are sightseeing and walking a lot around the city, but for sitting by the pool, it’s perfect!
For a unique and quick city break in May to Morocco, fly into Tangiers and spend a few days there!
Related posts: Taghazout Travel Guide. Things To Do in Taghazout Surf Village! / 20 BEST Cafes & Restaurants in Marrakech! PLUS, Rooftops in Marrakesh!
22. ZIMBABAWE
Zimbabwe is one of the best countries to visit in May, as the country enters the dry season with warm, sunny days and lower humidity, creating ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and outdoor exploration.
Temperatures are comfortable across much of the country, making it a great time to visit national parks such as Hwange National Park, where animals begin gathering around waterholes as vegetation thins after the rainy season.
May is also an excellent time to experience some of Zimbabwe’s most famous natural attractions. Visitors can explore the spectacular Victoria Falls, where water levels remain high following the rainy season, creating dramatic views and powerful cascades. With great safari conditions, breathtaking scenery, and comfortable weather for sightseeing, Zimbabwe stands out as one of the best countries to visit in May!
23. MOZAMBIQUE
In May, the rainy season in Mozambique has just ended and the country begins its dry, sunny winter period. Temperatures are warm but comfortable along the coast, with clear skies and lower humidity creating ideal conditions for beach holidays and island exploration.
May is also an excellent time to experience Mozambique’s spectacular coastline and marine life. Travellers can visit the Bazaruto Archipelago or Quirimbas Islands for pristine beaches, snorkelling, and diving among coral reefs and tropical fish. With calm seas, beautiful weather, and fewer crowds than peak holiday months, Mozambique stands out as one of the best countries to visit in May for a relaxing tropical escape and the ultimate family holiday in May!
24. SOUTH AFRICA
If you’re wanting a Southern Hemisphere holiday and a bit of Autumn in May, South Africa is one of the best countries to visit in May, as the country enters its dry autumn season with cooler temperatures and clear skies across many regions. The weather is especially pleasant for exploring cities such as Cape Town, where visitors can enjoy attractions like Table Mountain, the Cape Winelands, and scenic coastal drives along the Cape Peninsula without the intense summer heat.
May is also an excellent time for wildlife viewing, particularly in famous safari destinations such as Kruger National Park and other reserves in the northeast. As vegetation becomes thinner and water sources begin to shrink, animals are easier to spot gathering around rivers and waterholes so if a safari is on the card for the kids school holiday in May.. South Africa is ideal!
24. ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
Moving onto the Caribbean! I went to Antigua in May which is at the end of the popular high season of December to March and we got to enjoy a fairly quiet resort which wouldn’t have been the case a few weeks before. April brings sailing week to Antigua where the island becomes busy and more expensive again and May reaps the benefits of the quietness after this.
We did have a few rain showers and some cloud but overall it was an enjoyable week in May where it was perfect to sunbathe, sun, do watersports and activities such as zipling. For a slow holiday in May, Antigua is the one!
Related posts: 12 Fun Things To Do in Antigua and Barbuda Away From Your Resort!
25. ST LUCIA
St Lucia is one of the best countries to visit in May in the Caribbean, as the island enjoys warm tropical weather, plenty of sunshine, and slightly fewer visitors compared to the peak winter season. Temperatures are ideal for relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches or exploring natural landmarks such as the iconic Pitons, which rise dramatically above the Caribbean Sea.
May is also a wonderful time to experience St Lucia’s outdoor adventures and lush scenery. Travellers can hike through rainforest trails, visit waterfalls and volcanic hot springs, or snorkel and dive in the island’s clear coastal waters.
26. PERU
May is an ideal time to visit Peru and one of the best countries in May to visit because May is the start of the dry season with warm sunny days across the Andes, bringing clear skies and comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and trekking.
May is an ideal time to explore famous destinations such as Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley, where the weather is generally sunny and trails are in excellent condition before the peak tourist months of June and July.
May is also a fantastic time to experience Peru’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions. Travellers can explore the historic streets of Cusco, visit the ancient ruins of the Inca civilisation, or discover the natural beauty of Lake Titicaca and the surrounding highlands.
27. ECUDAOR
For another idea of a country in South America to visit in May, keep in mind Ecuador! In May, Ecuador offers pleasant weather across many of its diverse regions, from the Andes mountains to the Amazon rainforest. Cities such as Quito enjoy mild temperatures and clearer skies, making it a great time to explore colonial architecture, historic squares, and nearby volcanoes in comfortable conditions.
May is also a fantastic month to experience Ecuador’s natural wonders. Travellers can visit the famous Galápagos Islands for incredible wildlife encounters, explore cloud forests around Mindo, or hike through the dramatic landscapes of the Andean highlands.
I hope this list of the best countries to visit in May has helped you plan a trip!
- For more of my posts and to see more months of the year see:
- 23 BEST Countries to Visit in JUNE!
- 20 BEST Countries to Visit in JULY!
- 26 BEST Countries to Visit in AUGUST!