Where is it warmest in May?
Of our beach destinations, Antalya (Turkey) is the warmest in May with around 25°C. Turquoise Riviera with perfect weather. All-inclusive significantly cheaper than in high summer.
Photo: Fede Romo / UnsplashWhere to go in May?
May is one of the best months to travel. The Mediterranean is warm enough for swimming, the summer crowds are still far away, and prices are moderate. From Greece to Croatia, you can experience Europe at its most beautiful.
Where to go on holiday in May?
In May, Santorini (Greece, approx. 23°C), Mallorca (Spain, approx. 23°C) and Sardinia (Italy, approx. 22°C) are particularly good destinations for sun and beach. Barcelona and Prague are suitable for a city trip. Still off-peak prices on many Mediterranean routes.
Where is it warm enough for a beach holiday in May?
In May, you can expect beach weather in Santorini (23°C), Mallorca (23°C), Sardinia (22°C), Antalya (25°C) and Hvar (22°C). The table shows temperature, flight price from Germany, and daily budget per destination.
| # | Travel destination | Country | Temperature | Flight from | Budget/day | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Santorini | Greece | 23°C | from €130 | €80/day | Dreamy before the high season: Fewer tourists, good prices, perfect weather for the iconic sunset. |
| 2 | Mallorca | Spain | 23°C | from €60 | €70/day | Almond blossom is over, but perfect cycling weather. The coves in the east are still quiet. |
| 3 | Sardinia | Italy | 22°C | from €80 | €75/day | Costa Smeralda and Cala Goloritze without the August crowds. Crystal clear water. |
| 4 | Antalya | Turkey | 25°C | from €100 | €40/day | Turquoise Riviera with perfect weather. All-inclusive significantly cheaper than in high summer. |
| 5 | Hvar | Croatia | 22°C | from €100 | €65/day | The lavender island in full bloom. Wine tastings and boat tours to secluded bays. |
1
Santorini
Greece
Temp.
23°C
Flight from
from €130
Budget
€80/day
Dreamy before the high season: Fewer tourists, good prices, perfect weather for the iconic sunset.
2
Mallorca
Spain
Temp.
23°C
Flight from
from €60
Budget
€70/day
Almond blossom is over, but perfect cycling weather. The coves in the east are still quiet.
3
Sardinia
Italy
Temp.
22°C
Flight from
from €80
Budget
€75/day
Costa Smeralda and Cala Goloritze without the August crowds. Crystal clear water.
4
Antalya
Turkey
Temp.
25°C
Flight from
from €100
Budget
€40/day
Turquoise Riviera with perfect weather. All-inclusive significantly cheaper than in high summer.
5
Hvar
Croatia
Temp.
22°C
Flight from
from €100
Budget
€65/day
The lavender island in full bloom. Wine tastings and boat tours to secluded bays.
Which cities are worth a short trip in May?
For a city trip in May, we recommend Barcelona (Spain), Prague (Czech Republic), Split (Croatia) and Lisbon (Portugal).
Barcelona
22°CSpain
Perfect weather for Gaudi architecture and beach days. Primavera Sound Festival.
Prague
18°CCzech Republic
Prague Spring in the literal sense: Parks in full bloom, open-air culture begins.
Split
22°CCroatia
Diocletian's Palace and island hopping to Brac and Vis. Pre-season prices.
Lisbon
22°CPortugal
Santo Antonio preparations, Miradouro sunsets and perfect sightseeing weather.
What hidden gems are there for May?
Away from the well-known destinations, Albania (Riviera), Montenegro and Puglia (Apulia) are worth it in May — with less hustle and bustle and the right season.
Albania (Riviera)
Albania
Europe's best-kept secret: Ksamil and Saranda have water like the Caribbean, but at a fraction of the price.
Montenegro
Montenegro
Bay of Kotor, Sveti Stefan and the beaches of Budva. Like Croatia 15 years ago, but much cheaper.
Puglia (Apulia)
Italy
Trulli houses in Alberobello, white towns and fantastic food. Italy's hidden gem in the south.
Which travel guides are suitable for May?
Our free travel guides to the most popular destinations in May — with insider tips, attractions & practical information.
What events and holidays are there in May?
In May, Cannes Film Festival (May), Primavera Sound, Barcelona and European Museum Day (18 May) are on the calendar, among others.
Cannes Film Festival (May)
Primavera Sound, Barcelona
European Museum Day (18 May)
Eurovision Song Contest (May)
Pentecost (varies)
Are flights cheap in May?
Still off-peak prices on many Mediterranean routes. Prices will rise from Pentecost. Ideal for spontaneous short trips to Southern Europe. Long-haul flights to Asia are now the cheapest (monsoon begins).
Good chances of cheap flights
Frequently asked questions about travelling in May
Where to go in May on a small budget?
The cheapest option is Antalya (Turkey) at about €40/day; flights are from €100. Turquoise Riviera with perfect weather. All-inclusive significantly cheaper than in high summer.
Are flights expensive in May?
Still off-peak prices on many Mediterranean routes. Prices will rise from Pentecost. Ideal for spontaneous short trips to Southern Europe. Long-haul flights to Asia are now the cheapest (monsoon begins).
Which cities are worth visiting in May?
For a city trip in May, we recommend Barcelona (22°C), Prague (18°C), Split (22°C) and Lisbon (22°C). Perfect weather for Gaudi architecture and beach days. Primavera Sound Festival.
What's happening in May?
Highlights in May include Cannes Film Festival (May), Primavera Sound, Barcelona, European Museum Day (18 May) and Eurovision Song Contest (May).
How do I best plan my May holiday?
With our free tools, you can plan your travel time, budget, and route for your May holiday — and compare offers afterwards.
