If you’re in need of some new scenery and some well-deserved sunshine, look no further. This writing will walk you through the best places to travel in May. If you’re looking for the best time to travel, May is going to be a month you are going to really enjoy, because it has nice weather to enjoy, and it is going to have little to no crowds with some of the most amazing experiences possible. Whether you’re looking to journey through the mountains for an adventure, are dreaming of a summer Mediterranean getaway, or are ready for your next cultural documentary, May is here for you.
Japan (Hokkaido) – Late Cherry Blossoms and Beautiful Spring
Japan’s cherry blossoms are world-famous, but most people don’t realize that Hokkaido (Japan’s northern most island) is on a bit of a delay. Come May, the island will be exploding with soft pink blossoms, perfect cool breezes, and beautiful scenery meaning you will witness a little of Japan’s iconic Sakura with very few people.
Reasons to Travel in May:
- Crisp climate, 10° to 20°C.
- Cherry blossoms absolutely at their peak in May, particularly around Sapporo.
- Perfect days for hiking in national parks, e.g., Daisetsuzan national park.
Things to do:
- Enjoy Hanami (flower viewing) in Matsumae Castle Park.
- Max out on flower fields of Furano and Biei.
- Relax in a traditional Onsen (hot spring) after an adventure filled day.
Italy (Amalfi Coast) – A couple’s Mediterranean escape
Italy is an ageless love, and the Amalfi Coast in May is a great time for a visit. Cliffside villages bursting with flowers, quiet beaches to stroll, and lemon trees seeming to go for miles – the Amalfi Coast in May is so fantastic because of the drastically lower tourism volumes compared to the busy summer season; more space, more room to breathe – and arguably better pictures.
Why Go in May:
- Warm but comfortably warm temperatures, (average of 23 degrees Celsius).
- Significantly lower tourists than peak summer.
- Everything is blooming, and the bougainvillea is so Instagramable.
What to Do:
- Sunset boat ride from Amalfi to Positano
- Visit Ravello and walk through the gardens on the hilltop
- Hang out on the terrace of the cliff-side tavern and sip wine
- Drink real Italian limoncello, preferably directly from the source!
Morocco (Marrakech) – Culture, Color and springtime sunshine
Marrakech is chaotic as few places in the world, and in May is at its peak! The hot summer months are still weeks away, and the city is buzzing like you could never imagine. It is a city of history, art and tradition and all of it done under North African sunshine.
Why Go in May:
- Daily highs of approximately 26 degrees Celsius.
- Excellent sightseeing temperatures.
- Festivals, from spring festivities to sporting, defines the streets with more color.
What to Do:
- Shop the souks for artisan goods and spices.
- Experience true serenity at the famous Jardin Majorelle.
- Stay in a traditional riad with its inner courtyard of tiles.
USA (Yellowstone & Yosemite)
May reveals it golden secret in the top national parks of America. Waterfalls “Sharing the Stage,” wildlife by the herd and wildflowers burst into an overwhelming blanket of color on-trail.
Exuding nature vibes looking for a quiet escape? May is for the nature lovers who would rather not brave crowds of summer.
Why Go in May:
- Temperatures comfortable with few visitors.
- Time to see waterfalls and wildflower parade.
- As hibernating bears, bison and elk begin waking up in the animal section.
What to Do:
- Execute Old faithful and the Grand Prismatic spring in Yellowstone.
- head towards Yosemite Falls or take a look at Tunnel View to get some nice views.
- Park Ranger talk on geology and ecology of the park
- Sleep in the woods, camping beneath the stars.
Greece —Historic Sites, sunset viewings and island hopping
Every ruin in Greece is a ruin and beach of paradise! Sun—May means sun, but not the sizzle yet so ideal for ancient temples touring by day and later on eating at water side restaurants in evening.
Why Go in May:
- Especially wonderful temperatures, going out from 20°C–25°C
- Less touristy, sometimes than during other seasons (Likes on Acropolis)
- It is so much cheaper than peak season pricing.
What to Do:
- See all of the landmarks in Athens (they are ubiquitous!)
- From Santorini sunset to sun disappearing in the Aegean Sea.
Vietnam (Sapa & Hanoi) – A blending of culture, customs & scenic beauty
Adventure seekers paradise of Northern Vietnam in May Thanh Co are waiting for you Northern Vietnam is a wonderful place during May! Perfect weather, rice terrace that makes the building green and you will be hard to resist its local persona. A place where the natural elements, culture and cuisine all fuse so beautifully.
Why Visit in May:
- Dry comfortable weather before monsoon.
- Beautiful green rice paddies, particularly in the mountains of Sapa.
- For all types of tourist budget friendly.
What to Do:
- Walk through terraced fields with the locals.
- Cruise around Halong Bay and see some caves.
- Top 5 best food stalls of Hanoi.
- Learn the old cultures in authentic villages.
New Zealand (South Island)—Golden glow of autumn
With the Northern Hemisphere in summer mode, South Island of New Zealand is celebrating an autumn. Picture fall foliage, brisk air and scenic drives through pretty villages like you’d see on those postcards.
Reasons To Visit in May:
- Unequivocally the best time to document fall colors.
- Less tourists, more room to yourself.
- Best to cozy up mountain retreats and adventure sports.
What to Do:
- Drive from Queenstown to Wanaka and enjoy Queenstown views.
- Fjords of Milford Sound.
- Enjoy some Marlborough wine.
- Go skydiving or bungee jumping for some thrills.
Eurobonus – Portugal (Lisbon & Porto) – Europe’s Sleeping Beauty
We are all of a sudden starting to love Portugal as a destination and May is a great time to check it out. Warm days, mild nights, soulful tunes and historical hanging make every travel feel endlessly memorable.
Why Visit in May:
- Around US 22°C.
- Fewer tourists, compared to the neighboring countries for a budget traveler.
- Cultural Experiences with A Unique Twist, the music of Fado and spring fest.
What to Do:
- Ride tram 28, Lisbon.
- To try the Portuguese wine cellars along river Douro.
- Try the local seafood and custard tarts at a cafe.
- Carry your camera and walk along the tile-strewn streets.
May seems like the perfect month to explore various destinations around the world. The detailed descriptions of each place make it easy to visualize the experiences. It’s interesting how May offers a balance of good weather and fewer crowds. The emphasis on nature, culture, and adventure is very appealing.