Best places to visit in May

As spring reaches its peak, May represents one of the finest months of the year for international travel. Across the Northern Hemisphere, landscapes are lush and temperatures are rising, while the summer holiday crowds haven't yet arrived.

Whether you're looking for early coastal warmth, scenic mountain drives, or historic city walking tours, this guide covers the definitive list of the best places to go in May.

Evaluating your options early allows you to beat the seasonal rush and secure competitive rates. By choosing to travel during the late spring lull, you can enjoy popular landmarks with fewer crowds and lower prices. Here are the finest destinations to kickstart your travel calendar this spring.

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Top spring sun destinations for May

Securing reliable warmth close to the UK is accessible in May. If you're researching the top spring sun destinations for May, Southern Europe provides perfect temperatures for sightseeing and dining outdoors without the intense, dry heat of mid-summer.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is legendary for its dramatic vertical cliffs, pastel-coloured fishing villages, and terraced lemon groves. In May, the region is bathed in beautiful spring sunshine, and the local wildflowers are in full bloom, making it far more picturesque and comfortable than during the scorching, crowded summer months.

• Average temperature: 16–23°C
• Flight time from the UK: 2.5 hours to Naples
• Local currency: Euro (EUR)

You can explore the vertical streets of Positano, take a scenic boat ride around the island of Capri, or hike the famous Path of the Gods trail for panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Travelling to Amalfi in May also means securing reservations at sought-after coastal trattorias is much more straightforward.

Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. May brings bright, sunny days and comfortable walking conditions, allowing you to explore the island's famous white-sand beaches, rugged interior mountains, and ancient stone ruins in peace.

• Average temperature: 13–22°C
• Flight time from the UK: 2.5 hours
• Local currency: Euro (EUR)

While the sea may still be a little refreshing for prolonged swimming, the quiet coastal towns like Alghero and Cagliari are charming. You can rent a car to drive along the spectacular Costa Smeralda or hike through the wild landscapes of the Su Gorropu gorge.

Where to travel in May for spectacular nature and culture

Late spring is the ideal season for long-haul adventures. If you're wondering where to travel in May, choosing destinations that are transitioning into dry, sunny conditions will yield spectacular results.

Cusco and the Sacred Valley, Peru

May marks the official start of the dry season in the Peruvian Andes. It is widely considered the best month to visit Cusco and hike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, as the rainy season has completely ended, leaving crisp, clear blue skies and beautifully green mountain landscapes.

• Average temperature: 2–20°C (nighttime temperatures in the mountains can drop rapidly)
• Flight time from the UK: 14–16 hours (via Lima)
• Local currency: Peruvian Sol (PEN)

You can explore Cusco's colonial plazas, wander through the terraced salt pans of Maras in the Sacred Valley, or marvel at the ancient stone masonry of Sacsayhuamán. Because the dry season is popular for trekking, securing permits for the Inca Trail months in advance is essential.

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Vancouver, Canada

For travellers seeking a blend of urban sophistication and wild mountain scenery, Vancouver is an outstanding choice in May. As the city warms up, the surrounding coastal mountains transition from snow-dusted ski slopes to lush hiking trails, offering a spectacular natural backdrop.

• Average temperature: 8–17°C
• Flight time from the UK: 9.5 hours
• Local currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)

You can cycle along the famous seawall in Stanley Park, browse the artisan food markets on Granville Island, or take a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler. May is also the beginning of the local whale-watching season, with excellent opportunities to spot killer whales and humpback whales off the coast of Vancouver Island.

Best places to visit in May for early summer vibes

For some travellers, May represents the premier month to catch early summer energy at legendary beach spots before the seasonal price hikes arrive. This island destination is among the best places to visit in May for relaxed beach clubs and pristine coves.

Ibiza, Spain

While Ibiza is famous worldwide for its intense summer nightlife, May offers a completely different, appealing side of the island. Many of the famous beach clubs, boutiques, and historic restaurants open their doors for the season, offering a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere without the exhausting summer crowds.

• Average temperature: 14–22°C
• Flight time from the UK: 2.5 hours
• Local currency: Euro (EUR)

You can sunbathe in the quiet coves of Cala Salada, explore the historic, fortified old town of Dalt Vila (a UNESCO World Heritage site), or watch spectacular sunsets from the cliffs of Es Vedrà. Visiting in May allows you to enjoy the island's natural beauty and culinary scene at a fraction of the mid-summer cost, making it one of the smartest early summer holiday destinations for May.

How to secure cheap May holidays

Finding competitive rates on flights and hotels is a major benefit of travelling early in the year. If you're looking to plan cheap May holidays, a few strategic booking habits can make a significant difference.

Avoiding the late-spring bank holidays

Depending on the calendar year, the UK has two bank holidays in May, which can cause a significant spike in short-haul travel prices. To secure cheap May holidays, aim to travel during the middle of the month, between the early May bank holiday and the late spring school half-term. Booking mid-week flights and choosing off-peak city destinations can also help keep your costs low.

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Enjoy the best spring travel experiences with Revolut

Careful preparation is the foundation of the best spring travel experiences. By selecting destinations that offer a clear contrast to the damp British spring, you can start the summer season feeling inspired and refreshed. According to regional meteorological data from the Met Office website, late spring weather patterns can be variable, so checking safety and climate summaries before packing is recommended.

From the dramatic cliffs of the Italian coast to the ancient ruins of South America and the temperate rainforests of Canada, the world is full of incredible destinations. Managing your spending, flights, and accommodation through a single, secure financial platform allows you to focus on the journey itself.

Take Revolut on your next spring adventure — explore our guide to the travel money card.