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Where to go on holiday in May 2026: 7 best vacation spots
Where to go on holiday in May? If you’re searching for ideal travel weather, you’ve found it. May brings Europe to life: southern cities bask in 24°C sunshine, parks and gardens reach peak bloom, and long daylight hours stretch your exploring time well into the evening.
We’ve curated seven of the best places to go on holiday in May, from Madrid’s sun-drenched streets to the volcanic landscapes of Portugal’s Azores. Each destination offers something special: comfortable temperatures that suit both beach days and city wandering, outdoor dining in full swing, and that vibrant spring energy that makes everything feel fresh.
🎯Here’s what makes May travel brilliant:
- ☀️ Ideal temperatures: Warm without summer’s intensity
- 🌸 Spring at its peak: Gardens, parks, and countryside in full bloom
- 🌅 Extended daylight: 14-15 hours for maximum exploration
- 🎭 Outdoor season: Festivals, markets, and al fresco dining
Your accommodation? That’s where we come in. GuestReady handles every detail with precision, ensuring your space is clean and ready for your arrival. Because when your stay runs smoothly, you’re free to focus on what matters: making those perfect spring days count.
🗺️ Let’s explore your options. Here are seven destinations where everything simply falls into place.
1. Lille, France
Lille sits in northern France near the Belgian border, offering Flemish architecture and a thriving arts scene at 20°C in May. Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts for one of France’s largest art collections outside Paris, whilst the Grand Place showcases ornate baroque buildings spectacular in spring light. Traditional estaminets (Flemish taverns) serve carbonnade flamande and local beers.
Explore markets bursting with early summer produce: cheese, charcuterie, and Belgian-influenced specialities. Lille stays authentically French-Flemish rather than tourist-focused, with prices noticeably lower than Paris just an hour away by train. The compact centre makes everything walkable.
- Good for: Cultural escapades
- Average temperature: Around 20°C
- Weather: Enjoy sunny days
2. Madrid, Spain
Madrid hits perfect temperatures in May. Visit the Prado and Reina Sofía for Spanish masters before summer crowds, whilst Retiro Park becomes the city’s living room with locals picnicking and boats drifting across the lake. Rose gardens reach full bloom.
Explore the barrio hopping circuit: Malasaña for vintage vibes, La Latina for traditional taverns, Chueca for cosmopolitan energy. Markets like San Miguel stay busy but manageable. Spanish late dinner timing makes sense when sunset comes late and the city pulses with genuine energy.
- Good for: Culture and food lovers
- Average temperature: 24°C
- Weather: Sunny days
3. Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Ponta Delgada serves as São Miguel island’s main town, offering volcanic landscapes and thermal springs without mass tourism. May brings lush greenery ideal for hiking crater lakes and soaking in natural hot pools. Visit the twin lakes at Sete Cidades in a massive caldera, their contrasting blue and green waters creating surreal views.
Local restaurants serve fresh catch: limpets, octopus, fish alongside cozido das Furnas (stew cooked underground using volcanic heat). Explore Europe’s only tea plantations overlooking impossibly green hillsides. May means fewer tourists, lower prices, and that distinct Azorean pace. Whale watching season runs strong with sperm whales offshore.
- Good for: Nature lovers
- Average temperature: 19°C
- Weather: Mild with warmer days
4. London, United Kingdom
As spring blossoms in London, the city offers a vibrant mix of cultural experiences and outdoor delights. Explore iconic landmarks like Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London, amidst the colourful blooms of parks and gardens.
Immerse yourself in the city’s diverse cultural scene with theater productions, art exhibitions, and bustling markets. Don’t miss the renowned Chelsea Flower Show, showcasing stunning floral displays. Whether enjoying traditional afternoon tea or strolling along the River Thames, London in May promises a memorable experience.
- Good for: History buffs and art aficionados
- Average temperature: 18°C
- Weather: Mild with occasional showers, but some sunshine
5. Cercal, Portugal
Cercal sits in Portugal’s Alentejo region, surrounded by cork oak forests and wildflower meadows that bloom spectacularly in May. The weather suits hiking and cycling without Algarve’s tourist crowds or prices. Explore wild Atlantic beaches 20 minutes west, backed by cliffs rather than resorts.
Traditional whitewashed houses line quiet streets where locals outnumber visitors. Visit small restaurants serving Alentejan cuisine: pork with clams, migas, local cheeses with regional wines. The countryside reveals cork harvesting, olive groves, and villages where Portuguese remains the only language. It’s rural Portugal at its most authentic.
- Good for: Nature lovers seeking rural serenity
- Average temperature: 21°C
- Weather: Mild sunny days and occasional showers
6. Chartres, France
Chartres sits 90km southwest of Paris, dominated by its Gothic cathedral whose 13th-century stained glass ranks among medieval Europe’s finest. May brings comfortable temperatures for exploring. The cathedral’s blue windows create ethereal light, whilst surrounding medieval streets remain remarkably intact with half-timbered houses.
Visit markets filling squares with local produce, bistros serve proper French cooking, and the Eure River provides peaceful walks. It’s an easy Paris day trip, but staying overnight captures the evening calm. Accommodation costs a fraction of Paris rates. The cathedral justifies the visit, but the unspoiled character makes it worth lingering.
- Good for: Scenic walks and cultural delights
- Average temperature: 19°C
- Weather: Warmer days with sporadic rainfall
7. Marseille, France
Marseille welcomes with its vibrant culture and Mediterranean allure on the southern coast of France. Explore the city’s rich history as you wander through its ancient streets, discovering landmarks like the iconic Old Port and the majestic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, offering panoramic views of the city and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.
There’s no shortage of entertainment to enrich your visit and immerse yourself in the city’s dynamic arts scene, from the renowned Marseille Jazz Festival to the vibrant Mediterranean Film Festival. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Calanques National Park, a stunning natural reserve with rugged limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters, offering breathtaking hiking trails and scenic boat tours.
- Good for: Coastal adventures and culinary delights
- Average temperature: 23°C
- Weather: Sunny with occasional sea breezes
General travel essentials
As you plan for your May adventure, consider the generally mild weather in the Northern Hemisphere during this time. However, remember that your packing essentials may differ based on your destination, planned activities, and personal preferences. Before you depart, check the weather forecast and any specific guidelines or requirements for your travel location.
- Passport/ID/Travel Documents: Don’t leave home without them!
- Travel-sized toiletries: Pack shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and a toothbrush for convenience.
- Travel pillow and blanket: Make your journeys more comfortable with these travel essentials.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Shield yourself from the sun’s rays for skin and eye protection.
- Insect repellent: Especially crucial for areas with pesky mosquitoes or other bugs.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Explore new destinations comfortably with the right footwear.
- Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella: Be ready for unexpected showers or weather changes.
- Snacks: Keep your energy up with non-perishable snacks during long travel days.
- Entertainment: Bring books, magazines, or electronics to stay entertained during downtime.
- Reusable shopping bag: Carry souvenirs or groceries while reducing plastic waste.
Stay with us
Still undecided on your May holiday destination? Look no further! At GuestReady, we are here to ensure your journey is seamless and delightful. With our dedicated team ready to handle any hiccups and exceed your expectations, you can rest assured of a stress-free travel experience. Do not hesitate any longer, it is time to pack your bags and set off on an extraordinary May adventure!
If you’re thinking about pushing your trip to another time of the year, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
- January adventures: Kickstart your year with an incredible journey. Check out our ‘Where to go on holiday in January’ guide for winter destinations that promise beauty and revitalization, chosen by GuestReady.
- February adventures: Celebrate love and travel this month. Visit our ‘Where to go on holiday in February’ guide for romantic and serene destinations, selected by GuestReady.
- March getaways: Embrace spring with travel. Explore our ‘Where to go on holiday in March’ article for vibrant scenery and lively activities, chosen by GuestReady.
- April retreats: Spring adventures await. Explore our ‘Where to go on holiday in April’ article for handpicked destinations and festive events, selected by GuestReady.
- June trips: Start summer with our ‘Where to go on holiday in June’ guide. GuestReady’s selections include beach paradises and lively festivals.
- July retreats: Discover the height of summer with our ‘Where to go on holiday in July’ article. Enjoy sun-soaked destinations and vibrant cultural activities, selected by GuestReady.
- August trips: Prepare for a fantastic summer holiday with our ‘Where to go on holiday in August’ article. Discover the best summer spots and exciting experiences, chosen by GuestReady.
- September retreats: Transition into autumn with our ‘Where to go on holiday in September’ guide. Find destinations that blend summer warmth with fall charm, curated by GuestReady.
- October getaways: Embrace autumn’s magic this October. Our ‘Where to go on holiday in October’ article is your gateway to destinations rich in fall colours and cultural festivities, handpicked by GuestReady.
- November retreats: Plan a unique pre-winter getaway with our ‘Where to go on holiday in November’ guide. GuestReady’s picks feature serene countryside retreats and vibrant city breaks.
- December escapes: End the year with a festive holiday using our ‘Where to go on holiday in December’ guide. Discover winter markets, wonderlands, and cosy retreats, selected by GuestReady.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to go on holiday in May in Europe?
- Madrid stands out with 24°C sunshine perfect for outdoor exploring and rooftop dining. Marseille offers 23°C Mediterranean warmth with coastal hiking in the Calanques. For something quieter, Ponta Delgada in the Azores delivers volcanic landscapes, thermal springs, and lush greenery at a comfortable 19°C without tourist crowds.
Is May too early for beach holidays in Europe?
- For swimming, it can be. Spain’s Mediterranean coast offers the warmest conditions, but Portugal’s Atlantic waters stay cold in May despite pleasant air temperatures. Beach days work well for sunbathing and coastal walks, but if swimming is your priority, wait until June or July when water temperatures become more comfortable.
How far in advance should I book for May travel?
- Book 6-8 weeks ahead for May travel to secure good rates and availability. May is shoulder season, so you have more flexibility than summer months, but popular destinations and bank holiday weekends fill up earlier.
What can I expect when booking a GuestReady property?
- Every stay includes hotel-quality linen and toiletries, 24/7 guest support, contactless check-in, and professionally cleaned homes, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience.
