Where To Go On Holiday In May: Best Options & Tips
May. Ah, May. The month of blooming flowers and questionable weather decisions. It's that sweet spot between the chilly dread of winter and the sweaty panic of peak summer. But where, oh where, should your weary soul escape to this magical month?
Forget the overcrowded beaches and the sweltering city breaks. We're diving headfirst into the best of what May has to offer. Think sunshine without the sunburn. Think crowds, but the good kind of crowds. The ones with ice cream.
The Usual Suspects (With a Twist)
Everyone and their dog goes to Spain in May. And for good reason! The weather is usually glorious. But have you considered going a little… off-piste?
Instead of the always-packed costas, why not try a less-trodden path? The Balearic Islands, for instance. Mallorca in May is sublime. It’s before the real summer madness descends. You can actually find a quiet spot on the beach!
Or what about the northern coast? San Sebastián offers stunning beaches and some of the best food you'll ever eat. Think Michelin stars and pintxos galore. Your taste buds will thank you. Your waistline might not.
Italy. Of course, Italy. Everyone loves Italy. But again, everyone goes to Rome or Florence in May. And yes, they are amazing. But they are also full. Like, human sardine full.
My highly unpopular opinion? Skip the mainland madness and head to the islands. Sicily in May is a dream. The wildflowers are in bloom. The heat is gentle. And the pasta is still as divine as ever.
Or consider the lesser-known gems. The Aeolian Islands. Tiny, volcanic, and utterly charming. Imagine sipping wine with Mount Etna rumbling in the distance. Talk about a holiday story!
Embracing the Unexpected
So, you want something a little different? Something that says, "I'm not like other holidaymakers"? I hear you.
Let's talk about Portugal. Lisbon is wonderful, no doubt. But has it become the new Barcelona? Maybe. Consider the Algarve, but again, before the hordes. The western Algarve is particularly beautiful. Think dramatic cliffs and hidden coves.
Or venture inland. The Douro Valley is breathtaking. Wine country. Imagine gentle boat trips and vineyard visits. It's sophisticated and serene. Perfect for recharging your batteries.
Now, for a truly bold move. Greece. Everyone rushes to Santorini or Mykonos. And they are beautiful, yes. But they are also Instagram overload. And quite pricey.
My secret weapon? The lesser-known Greek islands. Crete is huge, so you can find quieter spots. But what about islands like Naxos or Paros? They offer gorgeous beaches and authentic villages without the selfie stick frenzy.
Even better, consider the northern islands. Corfu in May is lush and green. The flowers are everywhere. And the weather is perfect for exploring its Venetian old town.
The "Why Didn't I Think of That?" Destinations
Ready for some real game-changers? These are the places that will make your friends green with envy. And possibly ask for your itinerary.
Croatia. Everyone knows Dubrovnik. It’s stunning, but also incredibly busy. Think cruise ship chaos.
My suggestion? Head south. The Pelješac Peninsula. It’s a wine region with beautiful beaches. Or explore the islands further out. Hvar can be a party island, but May is its quieter, more elegant phase. Brač offers the famous Zlatni Rat beach without the summer crush.
And what about the Istrian Peninsula? Think Italian vibes without the Italian prices. Charming hilltop towns and incredible seafood. It’s a foodie paradise.
Now, let's get slightly more adventurous. Malta. It’s small, but mighty. May is ideal. The sun is warm, but not scorching. You can explore its ancient history and stunning coastlines with ease.
Visit the sister islands of Gozo and Comino. The Blue Lagoon is famous for a reason. In May, you can actually enjoy it. Imagine swimming in crystal-clear waters without bumping into fifty people.
A Touch of Culture (Without the Sweat)
Perhaps you're more of a city break person. But the thought of sweltering in Paris or London in the summer makes you shiver? I get it.
Consider cities that are just hitting their stride in May. Amsterdam. The tulips are probably still out. The canals are charming. And the weather is usually pleasant enough for cycling.
Or how about Prague? Beautiful, historic, and relatively affordable. May offers a lovely balance of warmth for exploring its fairytale streets. Plus, the beer is excellent. A crucial holiday factor, in my book.
For something a little more romantic, try Budapest. Thermal baths in May? Yes, please. Explore the Buda Castle district. Enjoy a Danube cruise. It's elegant and a little bit grand.
The Unexpectedly Awesome
I have a confession. I'm going to recommend a place that might surprise you. A place that isn't typically on the "May holiday" radar.
Slovenia. Yes, Slovenia. It’s a hidden gem. Lake Bled is as picturesque as the postcards. And the Julian Alps offer incredible hiking. May is perfect for this. It's before the summer hiking rush.
My unpopular opinion? Slovenia in May is what postcards dream of.
And the capital, Ljubljana, is incredibly charming. A pedestrian-friendly city with lovely cafes and a relaxed vibe. You can hire a boat on the river. It’s surprisingly delightful.
Finally, a little closer to home, but still often overlooked. The Channel Islands. Specifically, Guernsey or Jersey. May is their best month. Think blooming gardens, coastal walks, and delicious seafood. It's like a mini-break with a touch of British charm and French flair.
So there you have it. Your May holiday sorted. Forget the over-hyped spots. Embrace the beauty of the shoulder season. Go forth and have an absolutely fabulous, and dare I say, smart, May holiday!