20 Best Places to Visit in Europe in May – Beaches, Cities & Nature
When thinking of Europe in May, you might picture sunny days, blooming flowers, and vibrant cities. And you’re right – it’s one of the best times to explore Europe!
From strolling through picturesque city streets without the summer crowds, to enjoying nature as parks and gardens come to life, May offers a little bit of everything.
Even if you’re already dreaming of beach days, this month has you covered!
Together with 18 other travel experts, I’ve curated this list featuring the top 20 places to visit in Europe this May. Whether you’re looking for warm escapes, outdoor adventures, or cultural city trips – there’s something for every kind of traveler!
Keep reading to discover your next May adventure! 😊
(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)
Best Cities to Visit in Europe in May
1. Paris, France
Recommended by me
Paris in May is a perfect blend of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and blooming beauty.
With temperatures ranging from 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F), it’s warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities without the intense summer heat. Spring is in full swing, making the city’s gardens, like Jardin des Tuileries and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, even more charming.
One of the best things about visiting in May is that you can take in breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower without the overwhelming tourist crowds. Whether you admire it from Trocadéro, the Seine River, or a rooftop café, the sight is simply magical.
If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Paris, a sunset Seine river cruise or a leisurely picnic in one of the parks are musts.
Beyond the famous French landmarks, May is a great time to explore lesser-known gems like the Grand Mosque of Paris. This stunning Moorish-style mosque offers a peaceful escape with its beautiful courtyard, intricate tilework, and a charming tea room where you can enjoy mint tea.
Plan at least four days to soak in both the must-see attractions and hidden gems. Stay at Le Damantin Hôtel & Spa or Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel for stunning views and a fantastic atmosphere.
Check out:
Vegan in Paris: 11 Best Restaurants & Cafés
Grand Mosque of Paris – What to Know For a Visit
Best Views of The Eiffel Tower – Top 6 Places (With Map)
14 Most Romantic Things to do in Paris For Couples
2. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Recommended by Kenny of Knycx Journeying
Amsterdam in May is a spectacle of color, culture, and charm, making it a wonderful destination to visit in Europe!
The Netherlands has long been synonymous with tulips, a flower that first arrived in the country in the 16th century and quickly became a national symbol. Nowhere is this floral heritage more spectacularly displayed than at Keukenhof, the world-famous garden located just outside Amsterdam.
Known as the “Garden of Europe,” Keukenhof bursts into bloom each spring, with millions of tulips creating a breathtaking landscape of vibrant hues.
May marks the peak of the tulip season, offering visitors the last chance to witness this extraordinary floral display before the gardens close for the year.
Beyond Keukenhof, Amsterdam city is a delightful place to explore, with pleasant weather ideal for walking along its canals, charming neighborhoods, and prestigious art and history museums.
The city’s festive events include cultural festivals, open-air markets, and King’s Day celebrations.
Spend at least three to four days to fully appreciate Amsterdam’s beauty, with accommodations such as the centrally located Hotel Estherea, which is wonderful for a city walk, or CitizenM Schiphol, which is closer to Keukenhof.
Tours you might find interesting:
3. Porto, Portugal
Recommended by Emily of Em’s Globetrotting Gems
May is a great time to visit Porto, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. The summer heat can be intense (25°C in Porto and up to 45°C in the nearby Douro Valley), but May offers a comfortable 20°C.
Spend at least four nights in Porto, with one day for a trip to the Douro Valley, Portugal’s famous mountainous wine region. Take a guided tour, as you’ll want to enjoy the port wine without worrying about driving.
In Porto, climb the Clerigos Tower or visit the beautiful cathedral for stunning views. Meander across the Dom Luís Bridge, designed by the same architect as the Eiffel Tower, then take a cable car to the riverside.
Spend an afternoon by the river at the Port Houses – Fonseca has great tours, Calem offers tasting menus, and Sandemans has excellent riverside seating. Walk or Uber to Taylors for port in a stunning garden setting.
For more cultural options, visit Livraria Lello of Harry Potter fame (make sure to book in advance) or enjoy a Fado show in the evening. For dinner with a view, try Muro do Bacalhau.
4. Salzburg, Austria
Recommended by Lisi of Escaping Worlds
Salzburg is a city in central Austria, with its old town recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visiting in May allows you to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying pleasant temperatures, averaging 13°C.
Although Salzburg is relatively small, you can easily spend two to three days exploring not only the city but also its scenic surroundings, making it a great base for day trips.
For a good night’s sleep, consider The Keep Residence or Das Grüne Hotel zur Post, both eco-conscious accommodations in Salzburg.
The city’s main attractions include the fortress and cathedral, two of Austria’s most famous landmarks. At the fortress, you can learn more about its history while enjoying magnificent views over the old town.
To the south of the city lies the Untersberg, a striking mountain accessible by cable car or two different hiking trails leading to its summit.
Another highlight is Hellbrunn Palace, best known for its trick fountains – a fun experience, especially on a sunny day. The palace park is perfect for a walk or picnic, and hidden within it, you’ll find an impressive stone theater.
5. Prague, Czech Republic
Recommended by Veronika of Travel Geekery
Traveling in May has its perks, and Prague is no exception to the rule. The city’s springtime magic comes to life in its blossoming parks – and, if the season allows, with cherry blossoms too!
Czechs have public holidays on May 1st and May 8th, so many plan long weekends out of town during that time.
If you visit Prague on May Day, you may notice couples kissing under blossoming cherry trees – it’s a lovely tradition and one you should join too! Originally, it was said that a woman kissed under a cherry tree in bloom would stay beautiful for at least another year.
To experience Prague’s spring season, it’s best to check out its many parks and gardens. Even when visiting Prague Castle (a total must!), you can peruse its sculpted gardens – e.g., the South Gardens or the Royal Garden on the other side, featuring the Old Summer Palace.
When it comes to parks, you can’t go wrong with exploring Prague locals’ most beloved parks, such as the Havlíčkovy Sady Park in Vinohrady, Riegrovy Sady in Žižkov, or Letenské Sady in Letná. You can count on amazing views of Prague from there, too!
Check out: Top 10 Photo Spots in Prague, Czech Republic
6. Kraków, Poland
Recommended by Or of My Path in the World
With pleasant weather of 22°C–25°C by day, perfect for exploring not only the city itself but also the surrounding Polish countryside, Krakow is a fantastic European destination to visit in May.
This city is steeped in history and rich in culture, and each of its districts offers something completely different.
The UNESCO-listed Old Town is a maze of medieval streets packed with jaw-dropping Polish landmarks such as St. Mary’s Basilica, the Cloth Hall, the Barbican, and the nearby Wawel Royal Castle and its cathedral.
The Jewish Quarter boasts synagogues, Jewish restaurants, and unique museums, along with hipster and trendy brunch places, quirky bars, street art, and street food spots.
In May, it’s also worth visiting the beautiful botanical garden, an ideal place to enjoy the spring vibe. On the other side of the Vistula River, you’ll also find Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory, where he saved more than 1,000 Jews during the Holocaust, granting him the title of Righteous Among the Nations.
With so many things to do, you can opt for a weekend break, but you should spend a week in Krakow to fully immerse yourself in this vibrant city.
Stay at Main Square Apartments right on the Old Town’s main square, Rynek Glowny.
Check out: 8 Simple Reasons Why Poland is Worth Visiting
7. Oslo, Norway
Recommended by Jack & Abbie of Acouplescalling
The Norwegian capital of Oslo is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Europe in May as spring offers an exciting getaway, especially as you’ll avoid the summer crowds.
In May, you can expect highs of 17°C with average temperatures of 11°C so the weather is pleasant at this time of year. As spring is in full swing, travelers can also take advantage of long days, as the sun typically rises around 5:00 am.
Norway’s national day (also known as Constitution Day) takes place on May 17th, where you’ll get to experience parades, traditional costumes, and marching bands. This makes for a great atmosphere!
Botanical gardens also start to come alive at this time of year – especially the large gardens that can be found at Tøyen, which are home to approximately 1,800 different plants. Other highlights in Oslo include the Fram Museum, Akershus Fortress, and the Oslo Opera House.
For the best experience, you’ll want to spend at least 3 days in Oslo. This will give you enough time to visit the highlights and explore the Oslofjord while taking in the city’s food scene during the evening!
8. Venice, Italy
Recommended by Lavina of Continent Hop
As May knocks on the doors of Venice, the city starts welcoming far more tourists than in the winter months. The weather gets warmer, and the sunshine lasts past 8:00 pm.
The average temperature in Venice in May is around 21°C (69.8°F), with the lowest going down to 12°C (54°F) at night and the highest reaching 22°C (72°F) around month-end. Of course, the occasional rain might still surprise you, but it’s nothing an umbrella can’t help.
You can spend hours exploring the popular Piazza San Marco, where St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace are located. Taking a famous gondola ride in Venice in May or crossing the bridges means you can enjoy a cool breeze while admiring the landmarks.
The festivals like Festa della Sensa will give you a glimpse of local Venetian life. The weather will be perfect for a day trip to the colorful Murano and Burano islands, where intricate lace works and glass souvenirs await you.
Spending at least 2 days in Venice is necessary to cover the popular sites. Consider booking your stay with The St. Regis Venice, as this luxurious hotel is near Piazza San Marco.
Although May is not a peak tourist season in Venice, booking your accommodation in advance is necessary.
Check out:
10 Best Things to do in Venice For First-Timers
Gondola Ride in Venice – Is it Really Worth it?
A Perfect Day Trip to Burano And Murano From Venice
Where to Stay in Venice: Hotel Gorizia A La Valigia
9. Budapest, Hungary
Recommended by Kris of Travelling Mandala
Budapest offers plenty to do year-round, but May is one of the best times to visit. The weather is warm, and the city isn’t too crowded with tourists yet.
The average high temperature is around 21°C (70 °F) and it can get pretty hot towards the end of May as it nears close to the summer season.
With warm, sunny weather, it’s the perfect time for outdoor activities. Budapest has many parks, like City Park and Margaret Island, which are great spots to relax.
The best things to do in May include taking a River Danube cruise, unwinding in the thermal baths, sightseeing, relaxing in parks, exploring ruin bars, and enjoying outdoor cafés and restaurants.
The must-see attractions in Budapest are the Hungarian Parliament, Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Castle, Heroes’ Square, and the St. Stephen’s Basilica.
In addition, there are a couple of festivals taking place in May, including the Budapest Spring Festival, Gourmet Festival, and the Budapest Beer Week.
To see all the main attractions in Budapest, you need around 3–4 days. For accommodation, the Stories Boutique Hotel is a great option as it is right in the city center, in close walking distance to famous attractions.
Check out: Vegan Restaurants in Budapest – The Perfect Food Guide!
Warm Destinations to Visit in Europe in May
10. Albania
Recommended by me
Albania, especially the south, is a perfect choice for a May getaway. The weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor exploration.
The sea is already warm enough for a refreshing swim, especially in coastal towns like Ksamil or Himarë, known for its beautiful beaches. In May, you can enjoy these beaches almost to yourself, while in summer, they become crowded with tourists.
Start your trip in Tirana, the capital, where you can explore vibrant markets, historical sites, and museums.
Don’t miss the Blue Eye, a natural spring with striking blue waters, and take a step back in time by visiting Gjirokaster, a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming Ottoman architecture.
Make sure to explore Butrint National Park, home to ancient ruins and lush landscapes, and the scenic Berat, known as “The City of a Thousand Windows”.
For a comprehensive experience, plan at least 10 days to explore the southern gems of Albania.
Stay at Xheko Imperial in Tirana for a luxurious experience, Kerculla Resort in Gjirokaster for stunning views, and Portik Hotel in Berat for a cozy, authentic stay.
Check out:
Top 10 Best Things to do in Tirana For First-Timers
Visiting Kruja as a Day Trip From Tirana
Butrint National Park – Complete Guide For Visitors
11. Santorini, Greece
Recommended by Shweta of Zest In A Tote
Santorini is part of the Cyclades islands group and lies halfway between Athens and Crete. Santorini’s reputation precedes any trip to this famous island: panoramic views, romantic sunsets, and volcanic-sand beaches.
Santorini in May is shoulder season, so the hotel prices and crowds are not at their peak. Summer in famous islands like Santorini, especially July and August, gets really hot during the day and is also super crowded.
Santorini in May offers warm temperatures and abundant sunshine. The high during the day is about 23°C and the low is about 17°C.
Santorini has unique geology with volcanic sand beaches. The caldera of the dormant volcano, on which Santorini was formed, is an incredible natural feature here. Seeing a spectacular sunset over this caldera in Oia village is a highlight on any Santorini itinerary.
Spend about 2–3 days on the island. While you can stay in the beautiful village of Oia, it tends to be expensive.
Consider Fira or resorts on the East Coast, such as Perissa and Kamari, which offer a more traditional, affordable island holiday experience
12. Nice, France
Recommended by Sarah of Nice & Beyond
May is when Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, emerges in full color.
With daytime temperatures averaging 21°C, the weather is mild enough to hike around the cape of Nice to Villefranche-sur-Mer or bike down the iconic Promenade des Anglais yet warm enough to spend an afternoon on the beach and enjoy an al fresco dinner at one of the lively terraces in the Old Town.
The colors at the flower and fresh produce market on Cours Saleya take on a more vibrant palette and the fragrances fill the air. Castle Hill is the place to be for a spring picnic with panoramic views over the Bay of Angels – one of France’s most iconic landmarks.
The delightful boutique hotel La Pérouse offers similar vistas from its bay view rooms. A weeklong itinerary is ideal to discover this Mediterranean gem and its surroundings.
Visiting Nice in May also comes with the bonus option of catching a glimpse of the French Riviera’s most prestigious events: the Cannes Film Festival and the Monaco Grand Prix.
Located halfway between these two glamorous destinations, Nice makes for a highly convenient travel base to visit these events. A short train ride is all it takes to get there.
13. Malta
Recommended by Tim of Travels off the Cuff
Malta is a fantastic destination to visit in May, offering warm weather, beautiful culture, and stunning coastal scenery.
The weather is warm but not too hot, with temperatures around 19–23°C. It will be quieter and more affordable, as you’ll miss the tourist hoards which come in June onwards.
Malta is full of history: its capital, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and full of amazing architecture and winding streets. Mdina is the former capital city and perfect for a day out, with its narrow lanes and medieval charm (where scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed).
Malta has beautiful beaches and coastline, full of cute coves and dramatic cliffs. The Blue Lagoon on the uninhabited island of Comino is stunning with its pristine waters. On the island of Gozo, you can explore picturesque countryside, coastal trails, and historical sites like the Ggantija Temples.
For accommodation, The Phoenicia Malta is one of the best hotels in Malta. It’s located just outside Valletta’s city walls and provides a luxurious stay with modern comfort and classic charm.
Malta is small, so it’s easy to travel around or go to Comino or Gozo for a day trip. You could easily fill two weeks, but at least four days is recommended.
Check out: The 10 Best Places to Visit in Malta
14. Marbella, Spain
Recommended by Cristina of My Little World of Travelling
Marbella is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May for travelers who are looking for an early summer holiday.
Whilst the city enjoys over 320 days of sunshine and is usually warm, May is the perfect time to make the most of the beaches as temperatures reach 25°C on the best days.
Those interested in the party atmosphere and nightlife can also enjoy visiting some of the most renowned beach clubs, such as Nikki Beach, La Cabanne, and Ocean Club.
On top of these, wandering the historic center of Marbella must be on everyone’s list. Its cobblestone streets with white-painted houses and picturesque squares characteristic of Andalusian towns are worth exploring.
It’s possible to see Marbella in one day, but spending a weekend or longer will allow you to soak up the lively atmosphere and visit nearby towns, such as Ronda.
The city offers many accommodation options, but it’s known for catering to travelers seeking a luxurious experience.
Marbella Club is an emblematic resort offering beautiful rooms, restaurants, and facilities like golf courses and a spa.
15. Mallorca, Spain
Recommended by Elena of The Carry-on Chronicles
The beautiful Balearic island of Mallorca is a true dream destination to visit in May when temperatures average a comfortable 17°C.
Visitors can admire beautiful flowers in bloom and also take advantage of fewer crowds, as May is just before high season kicks off.
With temperatures often hitting 25°C at the end of the month, Mallorca is also the perfect place for your first swim of the year in the sea.
May also brings with it the celebrated “Es Firó Soller” Festival, which runs from May 8 to May 12, 2025. This exciting festival in Soller features music, historical offerings, and child-focused entertainment in the days leading up to the big event, a reenactment of the battle between the Christians and Moors.
Beyond this famous festival, May is also a wonderful time to ride the vintage train from Palma to Soller, a unique journey through the breathtaking Tramuntana mountains.
Make sure to stop by Valldemossa, a picturesque mountain village with enchanting streets and charming boutiques.
While you can easily dedicate a week or more to magnificent Mallorca, a minimum of three nights should allow you to cover a lot of ground.
For a memorable, mountainside stay, consider booking a room at the tranquil Hotel des Puig in Deia.
Check out: Visit Valldemossa, Mallorca – A Stunning Mountain Village
16. Milos, Greece
Recommended by Tamara of My Elated Odyssey
Milos is easily one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. This Greek island is one of the country’s most unique destinations, full of jaw-dropping landscapes, culture, and unique beaches.
May is an excellent time to visit Milos, as it falls during the shoulder season. This means that accommodation, excursion, and rental car prices are lower, and weather conditions are pleasant.
One of the best benefits of a visit during May is that it avoids the crowds. Milos has become increasingly popular over the past few years, and the peak season is quite busy. A May visit overall provides a calmer and more comfortable experience to explore the island.
Regarding weather, temperatures will range from lows of 18°C (65°F) to highs of 23°C (74°F). Rain chances are minimal, at an average of two days during May, providing ample time to enjoy outdoor activities.
Milos is full of exciting sites to explore. Among these are phenomenal beaches such as the moonlike Sarakiniko, Kleftiko Cove, and Tsigrado Beach.
The charming fishing villages, including Klima and Mandrakia, are additional must-sees for their colorful fishing houses and incredible views.
The White Suites in Adamas, the harbor town of Milos, is a fantastic choice for a cozy and unforgettable stay.
Best Nature Escapes in Europe in May
17. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Recommended by Anne of Packing Light Travel
May is a perfect month to visit Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park. Water levels are at their highest, and the landscape is bursting with spring colors.
Temperatures ranging between 7°C and 19°C (45°F and 66°F) are ideal for hiking, and visitor numbers are much lower than those of the busy months of July and August.
The stunningly beautiful UNESCO-listed park is one of the most unique national parks in Europe. The sixteen upper and lower lakes are separated by a constantly changing landscape of natural dams, waterfalls, streams, and cascades.
The easy walking trails and boardwalks facilitate leisurely hikes, and environmentally friendly electric boats and trains help visitors navigate the park’s almost 30,000 hectares (75,000 acres) of natural splendor.
Hotel accommodation is available within the park, enabling visitors to take full advantage of the opening hours between 07:00 am and 07:00 pm (May hours).
However, having a vehicle makes it easier to enjoy the local hospitality and home-cooked meals offered by the many private accommodation providers located outside the park.
Of the many tips for visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park, visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance. Visitor numbers are controlled and trying to purchase tickets on site can lead to disappointment.
Tours you might find interesting:
18. Scotland, UK
Recommended by Maja of Away With Maja
Scotland is a phenomenal destination to visit in spring – particularly the islands like Orkney or the Isle of Skye. But the North Coast 500 is one place you must visit in May.
This tourist route along the farthest northern corners of the country is the most epic road trip in the UK. May is the perfect time to do this 830-kilometer road trip to see the best wildlife and scenery, without the tourist crowds of the summer season.
Seabirds, including puffins, will be nesting at Puffin Cove, Dunnet Head, and on Handa Island. Be sure to visit Dunrobin Castle, Dunscansby Stacks, John o’ Groats, Smoo Cave, Achmelvich Bay, Torridon, and Bealach na Bà.
There will be much less traffic on the roads than during the peak months of June–August, and the midges (biting insects) will hopefully be mild compared to July and August.
The average temperature ranges from 7–13°C (45–55°F), although you may see some warmer days in the low 20s°C (68F).
Give yourself a minimum of five days, although seven days will mean a less hectic pace. If you want to wake up with a truly unique view, book a night at Sango Sands campsite – you’ll wake up on one of the most stunning beaches in the country.
19. Madeira, Portugal
Recommended by Mal of RentingACarInEurope101
May is a fantastic time to visit Madeira. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 21°C, plenty of sunshine, and minimal rain.
As the second month of spring, the island is in full bloom, bursting with colorful flowers and lush landscapes.
Renting a car in Madeira is very affordable and the most convenient way to explore the island. May is the perfect time to enjoy one of the many fantastic hikes. If you’re fairly fit, take the iconic Pico Do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo trail, which is famous for spectacular sunrise views.
If you’re not into hiking, you can simply road trip across the island, stopping at quaint towns such as Ponta Do Sol, famous for having the most sunny days on the island, or Porto Moniz, where you can swim in natural tidal pools.
Madeira is packed with amazing things to do, so you’ll need a minimum of four full days to cover at least the highlights.
Most visitors stay in the island’s capital, Funchal, situated on the southern coast. Living Funchal iNN is an excellent choice if you like having a kitchen and even a washing machine at your disposal.
20. Jungfrau Region, Switzerland
Recommended by David of Dreaming of the Magic
The Jungfrau Region of Switzerland is the perfect location to visit in May. Rising temperatures bring milder weather, yet there is still snow on the mountain peaks and the summer crowds haven’t yet arrived.
Average temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) in the villages, making it ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
One of the best things to do is ride the Jungfrau Railway to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe”. It’s a great day trip from the valleys, packed with stunning views, snow activities, and hiking.
The Grindelwald Valley offers stunning views and Grindelwald First offers scenic hikes and adventure activities all in one place.
Hikers can enjoy lower-altitude trails around Lauterbrunnen and Mürren is a cute village with panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau. If time permits, visiting the revolving restaurant at the top of Schilthorn is a must.
While many choose to stay in Interlaken for access to the entire region, Grindelwald is a better location with direct access to Grindelwald First and cable car/train access to Lauterbrunnen, Mürren, and Jungfraujoch.
A 3-4 night stay is ideal to experience the highlights of the Jungfrau Region without feeling rushed.
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Here are some of my favorite travel tips and resources:
Flights: I prefer using CheapOair to book flights. I often search for “Anywhere” to uncover the best flight deals!
Accommodation: Booking.com is my favorite site to find some great hotel deals.
Travel Insurance: There are many reasons why travel insurance is important and I never travel without one. I use the simple and flexible one from SafetyWing that protects me against unforeseen events.
Tours: I love taking tours to explore destinations like a local. My favorite website to book them in advance is GetYourGuide.
Camera Gear: I use a Nikon D5300 camera with an 18-105 mm and a 10-20 mm wide-angle lens to take my photos.
