Best Travel Destinations in May 2026

May is one of the most underrated months to travel. The weather is good across nearly all popular destinations, tourists have not yet arrived in full force and prices are generally lower than in June, July and August. It is the sweet spot month that gives you the most for your money and the best overall experience.

Croatia, the Dalmatian Coast

Croatia in May is close to perfect. The Adriatic is clear and blue, temperatures in Dubrovnik and Split sit at 22 to 26 degrees Celsius and the popular islands like Hvar and Brač are open and beautiful without being overcrowded. It is in May that you can actually enjoy the stunning old town centres of Dubrovnik and Split without the queues that dominate them in August. Prices for flights, hotels and restaurants are all noticeably lower than in peak summer season.

Accommodation in May: From approx. 💚 37 EUR/night (guesthouse) · 🟡 87 EUR/night (boutique hotel) · 🔴 188 EUR/night (luxury hotel by the sea)

Japan in late spring

Cherry blossom season is over but May is still a fantastic time to visit Japan. Temperatures are comfortable at 18 to 25 degrees Celsius, the green gardens and temples are in full bloom and there are significantly fewer tourists than in April. It is in May that Japan shows its calm and contemplative side. Kyoto's bamboo groves, Nara's deer and Tokyo's gardens are all more beautiful and easier to properly experience without the April crowds.

Accommodation in May: From approx. 💚 44 EUR/night (hostel or capsule hotel) · 🟡 104 EUR/night (traditional ryokan) · 🔴 228 EUR/night (luxury ryokan)

Bali, Indonesia

May is actually the best time to visit Bali. The dry season has just begun, temperatures are stable at 28 to 32 degrees Celsius and the European school holiday crowds have not yet arrived. Ubud, Seminyak and Canggu are all at their best and prices are noticeably lower than in July and August. It is in May that Bali gives you the balance of great weather, authentic atmosphere and reasonable prices that the island is famous for.

Accommodation in May: From approx. 💚 21 EUR/night (guesthouse) · 🟡 64 EUR/night (boutique hotel) · 🔴 148 EUR/night (private pool villa)

Spain, the interior

While everyone is waiting for beach weather in Spain, the interior is at its absolute best in May. Seville is surrounded by flowering orange trees, temperatures are comfortable at 24 to 28 degrees and the Alhambra in Granada can be visited without the hours-long queues that dominate summer. Granada, Seville and Cordoba are all excellent in May and prices are significantly lower than in peak summer season.

Accommodation in May: From approx. 💚 42 EUR/night (guesthouse) · 🟡 91 EUR/night (boutique hotel) · 🔴 174 EUR/night (luxury hotel)

Morocco, the Atlas Mountains and the coast

May is one of the very best months in Morocco. Temperatures are good and varied, the Atlas Mountains are green and fresh and the coastal towns of Essaouira and Agadir offer sun and beach without the summer heat that can make Marrakech uncomfortable in August. It is a destination that never disappoints and the flight from northern Europe is just around 4 hours. Morocco is one of the countries in the world that gives you the most experience per euro spent.

Accommodation in May: From approx. 💚 25 EUR/night (riad) · 🟡 75 EUR/night (boutique riad with pool) · 🔴 154 EUR/night (luxury riad)

May is the month that rewards those who dare to travel just outside the big peak season. At yourtravelideas.com we find the best travel deals continuously so you can always travel at the right price. 🌴