Holidaying in May offers the perfect balance of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes.
Whether you’re longing for a brief weekend getaway, a luxurious break or a budget-friendly adventure, we’ve got you covered.
With all the options at your fingertips, the only decision left for you is to choose the May holidays that best suits your preferences.
You’ve already waited long enough, so let’s waste no time. Your epic May Holidays await you.
May Holidays: May Holidays in the Sun
Mallorca, Spain: May is a fantastic time to visit Mallorca as the weather is warm but not scorching hot, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the island. The summer crowds have not fully arrived yet, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Cancun, Mexico: May is an ideal time to visit Cancun as it falls during the dry season, offering plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. It’s a good balance between the slightly cooler months and the hotter, more humid summer months.
Phuket, Thailand: May is the beginning of the low season in Phuket, which means lower prices and fewer tourists. The weather is still generally good, with warm temperatures and occasional rain showers that add a refreshing touch to the lush surroundings.
Mahe, Seychelles: May is a great time to visit Seychelles as it falls between the northwest and southeast monsoon seasons. The weather is generally pleasant, with warm temperatures and lower humidity, making it an ideal time for beach vacations and outdoor activities.
Bali, Indonesia: May falls within the dry season in Bali, providing plenty of sunshine and minimal rainfall. The beaches, temples, and vibrant cultural scene can be enjoyed without the high humidity and intense heat of the upcoming months.
Please support Happy Irish Wanderers and help us grow by using the provided links. This will earn us a small commission, but won’t cost you anything extra!
Dubrovnik, Croatia: May marks the start of the tourist season in Dubrovnik, offering pleasant weather without the peak summer crowds. It’s a great time to explore the historic old town, stroll along the city walls, and enjoy the Adriatic coastline.
May Holidays: Luxury May Holidays
Amalfi Coast, Italy: May is an excellent time to visit the Amalfi Coast as the weather is warm, but not overly hot, and the summer crowds have yet to arrive. The lush landscapes, charming villages, and stunning coastal views are best enjoyed in the pleasant May weather.
Cape Town, South Africa: May is autumn in Cape Town, offering comfortable temperatures and a decrease in tourist numbers. It’s an ideal time to explore the city, visit the iconic Table Mountain, and enjoy the beautiful wineries in the surrounding areas.
Dubai, UAE: While Dubai is hot year-round, May offers a more bearable temperature before the scorching summer months. It’s a great time for shopping, desert safaris, and enjoying the city’s modern attractions with fewer crowds.
Barbados: May is the end of the dry season in Barbados, making it an excellent time to visit for sunny weather and minimal rainfall. The Caribbean island offers pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and various water activities without the peak-season prices.
Maldives: May is the shoulder season in the Maldives, with lower prices and fewer tourists compared to the peak winter months. The weather is still pleasant, providing an ideal opportunity to explore the coral reefs, indulge in water sports, and relax in luxury overwater bungalows.
May Holidays: Cheap May Holidays
Riga, Latvia: Riga, the capital of Latvia, is known for its charming Old Town and vibrant cultural scene. May provides milder weather, and you can explore the city’s architecture, visit the Central Market, and enjoy the local cuisine without breaking the bank.
Check out how much our Baltic States trip cost us.
Tbilisi, Georgia: Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is an emerging travel destination with a unique blend of history and modernity. May offers pleasant weather, and you can explore the old town, visit the Narikala Fortress, and indulge in delicious Georgian cuisine at affordable prices.
Get A Free Quote – World Nomads Travel Insurance
Hanoi, Vietnam: May is a good time to visit Hanoi before the onset of the rainy season. Explore the Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and enjoy Vietnamese street food, all at budget-friendly prices.
Chiang Mai, Thailand: May is the start of the low season in Chiang Mai, offering budget-friendly accommodation and fewer crowds. Explore the temples, enjoy the local markets, and experience the unique cultural atmosphere of northern Thailand.
Check out the ultimate 3-week Thailand itinerary.
Siem Reap, Cambodia: Siem Reap, home to the famous Angkor Wat temple complex, offers affordable accommodation and food options. May falls within the low season, providing an opportunity to explore the temples with fewer tourists.
May Holidays: May City Breaks
Lisbon, Portugal: Lisbon is a charming and affordable European capital. In May, you can enjoy pleasant weather and explore the historic neighborhoods, such as Alfama and Bairro Alto, as well as enjoy affordable local cuisine.
Barcelona, Spain: May in Barcelona offers warm weather without the intense summer heat. You can explore iconic landmarks like Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and stroll along the vibrant La Rambla. May also marks the beginning of the outdoor festival season.
Tallinn, Estonia: May in Tallinn offers mild and pleasant weather as spring fully blooms. The UNESCO-listed Old Town comes to life with blooming flowers, and outdoor cafes and restaurants set up their terraces.
.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Spring is a delightful time to visit Amsterdam when tulips are in full bloom. Explore the city’s picturesque canals, visit the Anne Frank House, and enjoy cycling around the city’s bike-friendly streets. May also hosts outdoor events and festivals.
Dublin, Ireland: May in Dublin brings longer days and milder temperatures. Explore the historic Trinity College, visit the Guinness Storehouse, and enjoy the lively atmosphere in Temple Bar. You might also catch some local festivals or events happening in the city.
May Holidays: May Festivals
Cannes Film Festival, France: One of the most prestigious film festivals globally, Cannes showcases a selection of the world’s best films. It attracts celebrities, filmmakers, and cinema enthusiasts, offering a glamorous atmosphere along the French Riviera.
Gardens by the Bay – Floral Fantasy, Singapore: While not a traditional festival, Gardens by the Bay in Singapore features the Floral Fantasy exhibition, showcasing a vibrant collection of flowers and plants. It’s a mesmerizing display of nature’s beauty in the heart of the city.
Tulip Festival, Istanbul, Turkey: Held in Emirgan Park, Istanbul’s Tulip Festival celebrates the arrival of spring with millions of tulips in full bloom. The park becomes a colorful spectacle, and various cultural events are organized during the festival.
Skyscanner
Vivid Sydney, Australia: Vivid Sydney is a festival of light, music, and ideas, transforming the city into a spectacular canvas of light projections, interactive installations, and performances. It’s a mesmerizing celebration of creativity and innovation.
Feria de Jerez (Jerez Horse Fair), Spain: This lively fair in Jerez de la Frontera combines equestrian events, flamenco music and dance, bullfighting, and vibrant celebrations. It’s a great opportunity to experience Andalusian culture and traditions.
May Holidays: May Cruises
Mediterranean Cruise: May is an excellent time for a Mediterranean cruise as the weather is warm but not too hot, and the tourist crowds are generally smaller than in the peak summer months. You can explore iconic ports such as Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and the French Riviera.
Great Barrier Reef Cruise: May is a great time to explore the Great Barrier Reef as it falls within the dry season in northern Australia. Enjoy snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear waters, and visit picturesque islands such as Hamilton Island and Cairns.
Alaska Cruise: May marks the beginning of the cruise season in Alaska. While it’s still early in the season, you can witness the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and glaciers without the peak summer crowds. May offers longer days and increasing temperatures.
Caribbean Cruise: May is a good time for a Caribbean cruise as it falls outside the hurricane season. You can enjoy the warm weather, turquoise waters, and visit popular destinations like the Bahamas, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands.
Norwegian Fjords Cruise: May is an ideal time to explore the Norwegian Fjords as the landscapes come to life with blooming flowers, and the weather is relatively mild. Cruise through the stunning fjords and visit picturesque ports like Geiranger and Flam.
Enjoy your May Holidays!
We hope this article has given you enough options to choose the perfect trip to suit your preferences and that you enjoy your well-deserved May break, however that may look for you.
We would love to hear your thoughts and which option you went with. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
Slán go fóil
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on the links to make a purchase, we will earn a small commission. This is at NO EXTRA COST to you. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring adventure travel guides.