May

1. Croatia

May is a great time to explore Croatia, with long sunny days, warm temperatures and a quieter atmosphere before the summer rush. It’s ideal for island hopping, coastal walks and exploring historic towns like Dubrovnik and Split. The Adriatic Sea begins to warm, and national parks are at their most lush and vibrant, making this a scenic and relaxing month to visit.

Must see:

• Dubrovnik (Old Town and city walls)
• Hvar (island beaches and nightlife)

Flight time: Approximately 2.5–3 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +2
Temperature: Average 18°C to 25°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–60 mm
Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
Top tip: Use ferries to easily explore nearby islands from the coast.

2. Greece

May is a fantastic time to visit Greece, offering warm days, blooming landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere before the busy summer season. Coastal towns and islands like Santorini and Crete are lively but not crowded, and the mainland is ideal for exploring ancient ruins and charming villages. With sunny weather and mild seas, it’s perfect for both culture and relaxation.

Must see:

• Santorini (views and volcanic beaches)
• Athens (Acropolis and historic districts)

Flight time: Approximately 3.5–4 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +3
Temperature: Average 20°C to 27°C
Monthly rainfall: 10–30 mm
Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
Top tip: Visit major archaeological sites early in the day to avoid heat and queues.

3. Scotland, UK

May is one of the best months to visit Scotland, with long daylight hours, mild temperatures and vibrant spring colours across the countryside. It’s an excellent time for road trips through the Highlands, hikes on the Isle of Skye, or cultural visits to Edinburgh. The weather is generally dry and midges are not yet a problem, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Must see:

• Isle of Skye (scenery and walking trails)
• Edinburgh (historic centre and Arthur’s Seat)

Flight time: Approximately 1–1.5 hours from London
Time difference: GMT
Temperature: Average 10°C to 17°C
Monthly rainfall: 40–60 mm
Recommended trip duration: 5–10 days
Top tip: Layer up and prepare for all weather—conditions can change quickly.

4. Japan

May is a fantastic month to visit Japan, with warm, pleasant weather across the country and a burst of spring energy. Gardens bloom with wisteria and azaleas, and cultural festivals are held in cities and villages alike. From the temples of Kyoto to the countryside of Hokkaido and the beaches of Okinawa, it’s a wonderful time for travel without summer humidity or crowds.

Must see:

• Kyoto (temples and gardens)
• Tokyo (museums and modern culture)

Flight time: Approximately 11–13 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +9
Temperature: Average 15°C to 26°C
Monthly rainfall: 50–100 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Trains are the best way to explore—consider a Japan Rail Pass for value and flexibility.

5. United States of America

May is a perfect time to visit the USA, with mild temperatures and diverse landscapes in full bloom. From New York’s Central Park to California’s Pacific Coast and the canyons of Utah, the country offers something for every traveller. National parks are accessible and less crowded, cities are lively, and weather conditions are ideal for both cultural exploration and outdoor adventure.

Must see:

• New York City (Central Park and museums)
• Grand Canyon (hiking and scenic views)

Flight time: Approximately 7–10 hours from London
Time difference: GMT -4 to -8 (varies by region)
Temperature: Average 10°C to 27°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–80 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Consider combining a city break with a nature escape for a well-rounded trip.

6. Italy

Italy in May is a dream, with sunny days, warm temperatures and spring colours across the countryside. Tuscany’s rolling hills and vineyards are at their best, and the Amalfi Coast begins to buzz without the peak season crowds. Whether you’re enjoying historic cities or seaside escapes, this month offers perfect conditions for sightseeing and al fresco dining.

Must see:

• Florence (art and Tuscan scenery)
• Positano (cliffside views and beaches)

Flight time: Approximately 2–3 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +2
Temperature: Average 18°C to 25°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–60 mm
Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
Top tip: Combine countryside stays with day trips to nearby towns and cities.

7. Canada

Canada in May is ideal for exploring cities and nature, as spring fully arrives across the country. Vancouver and Toronto begin to bloom with parks and festivals, while national parks offer fresh air, trails and wildlife. The snow melts in the Rockies, making scenic drives and early hiking possible. It’s a peaceful time to visit before the summer crowds and peak prices set in.

Must see:

• Banff National Park (lakes and mountains)
• Toronto (CN Tower and waterfront)

Flight time: Approximately 7–10 hours from London
Time difference: GMT -3.5 to -8 (varies by region)
Temperature: Average 10°C to 20°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–70 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: For variety, combine urban culture with outdoor adventure in one trip.

8. Portugal

Portugal shines in May, with mild temperatures, sunny skies and a relaxed atmosphere before the peak summer season. From Lisbon’s lively streets to the Algarve’s golden beaches, it’s a great time for road trips, sightseeing and wine tasting. Spring flowers are in bloom, and cultural events fill the calendar, making the country both vibrant and peaceful.

Must see:

• Lisbon (Alfama district and viewpoints)
• Algarve (cliffs and sandy beaches)

Flight time: Approximately 2.5–3 hours from London
Time difference: GMT
Temperature: Average 18°C to 25°C
Monthly rainfall: 20–50 mm
Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
Top tip: Book early for popular seaside towns as May fills up quickly.

9. Germany

Germany in May is full of charm, with mild spring weather and lively outdoor life. Cities like Munich and Berlin open their beer gardens, and countryside areas like Bavaria burst into bloom. Festivals and public holidays give travellers a taste of local life, and the landscapes are perfect for hiking, biking and castle visits.

Must see:

• Berlin (museums and historic sites)
• Rhine Valley (castles and vineyards)

Flight time: Approximately 1.5–2 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +2
Temperature: Average 15°C to 22°C
Monthly rainfall: 30–60 mm
Recommended trip duration: 7–10 days
Top tip: Explore smaller towns and wine regions for fewer crowds and great scenery.

10. China

May is one of the best months to visit China, with mild, dry weather and green, vibrant landscapes across the country. From Beijing’s imperial landmarks to the karst scenery of Guilin and the modern bustle of Shanghai, conditions are excellent for travel. Mountain and countryside regions are in full bloom, and it’s a great time to enjoy cultural heritage, natural beauty and regional cuisine.

Must see:

• Beijing (Forbidden City and Great Wall)
• Guilin (karst scenery and river cruises)

Flight time: Approximately 10–12 hours from London
Time difference: GMT +8
Temperature: Average 15°C to 28°C
Monthly rainfall: 20–70 mm
Recommended trip duration: 10–14 days
Top tip: Domestic flights and high-speed trains make it easy to cover multiple regions in one trip.