May is one of the best months to travel to Europe, as the weather is warm and sunny, the crowds are thinner than in the peak summer season, and there are plenty of festivals and events to enjoy. From the Mediterranean coast to the Nordic fjords, Europe offers a diverse range of destinations that are perfect for a May getaway. Here are 21 of the best places to visit in May in Europe, and why you should add them to your travel bucket list:
- Barcelona, Spain – Visit in May for warm weather and fewer crowds. Enjoy the beaches, Gaudi’s architecture, and local festivals.
- Paris, France – May brings mild weather and blooming flowers. Visit the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and take a river cruise on the Seine.
- Cinque Terre, Italy – May is perfect for hiking the trails and enjoying the seaside villages before the summer crowds arrive.
- Santorini, Greece – May offers warm weather and lower prices than the peak season. Visit the famous caldera, beaches, and wineries.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – May brings tulip season and mild weather. Explore the canals, museums, and parks, and visit the famous Keukenhof Gardens.
- Copenhagen, Denmark – May brings longer days and mild weather. Explore the city’s museums, parks, and bike-friendly streets.
- Prague, Czech Republic – May is a great time to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy the city’s architecture, beer, and cultural festivals.
- Edinburgh, Scotland – May brings mild weather and fewer tourists than the summer months. Visit the castle, the Royal Mile, and enjoy the city’s festivals.
- Vienna, Austria – May brings pleasant weather and the start of outdoor events and concerts. Visit the museums, palaces, and cafes.
- Budapest, Hungary – May is perfect for enjoying the city’s outdoor thermal baths, exploring the historic buildings, and taking a river cruise.
- Krakow, Poland – May is a great time to visit the city’s historic sites and enjoy the mild weather. Visit the Wawel Castle, the Main Square, and the Jewish Quarter.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia – May offers warm weather and lower prices than the peak season. Visit the historic city walls, the Old Town, and take a boat trip to nearby islands.
- Istanbul, Turkey – May offers pleasant weather and the start of the festival season. Visit the historic mosques, bazaars, and enjoy the local cuisine.
- Lisbon, Portugal – May offers warm weather and fewer crowds than the summer months. Visit the historic neighbourhoods, beaches, and enjoy the local food and wine.
- Stockholm, Sweden – May offers mild weather and the start of outdoor events and concerts. Explore the city’s museums, parks, and the historic Gamla Stan neighbourhood.
- Reykjavik, Iceland – May offers long days and mild weather. Enjoy the stunning nature, hot springs, and the city’s nightlife.
- Nice, France – May offers warm weather and fewer crowds than the summer months. Visit the beaches, the Old Town, and take a day trip to nearby towns.
- Berlin, Germany – May brings mild weather and outdoor events and concerts. Visit the museums, the historic sites, and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
- Brussels, Belgium – May brings mild weather and blooming flowers. Visit the Grand Place, the Atomium, and enjoy the famous chocolate and beer.
- Athens, Greece – May offers warm weather and lower prices than the peak season. Visit the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the local markets and cafes.
- Bergen, Norway – May offers mild weather and stunning nature. Visit the historic wharf, take a fjord cruise, and enjoy the local seafood.
May is a wonderful time to explore Europe, as spring blossoms into full bloom and the weather begins to warm up. From the colourful tulip fields in the Netherlands to the sun-drenched beaches of Greece, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in art and culture or simply relax in the great outdoors, May is the perfect month to discover all that Europe has to offer.
See more top ‘shoulder season’ destinations here!
