Pack Your Bags and Have a Blast at These May Holiday Destinations
May is possibly one of the best months to travel. You can forget about the soaring temperatures during the hot summer season and the sharp coldness of the winter months. Your bucket list should be boasting with May holiday destinations all around the world.
Knowing that we love going on all kinds of travel adventures in May, we decided to make a specific list for you. Here, we’ll go over the 10 best holiday destinations in May.
1. Tokyo, Japan
There are many hidden gems a person can visit in Japan. That doesn’t mean overlooking the fantastic capital of Japan – Tokyo. With temperatures between 65-75° F (15-23° C), Tokyo is a great spring destination, especially for its festivals.
For example, the famous “Golden Week” starts late April into early May. This week contains numerous holidays, which include many special events that can make your stay unique and authentic in Japan. Sanja Matsuri is another event not to miss in May in Tokyo. This festival attracts around 2 million visitors each year and boasts an energetic atmosphere.
The megapolis is more than its festivals. Tokyo Skytree, Tokyo Tower, Akihabara, and Senso-Ji are only a few attractions not to miss in this city. With the warm Tokyo weather, it’s perfect for walking and exploring. It surely is one of the top spots for holidays in May.
Search for the best hotels in Tokyo, Japan.
2. Budapest, Hungary
If you think where to go on holiday in May, Budapest is an excellent destination for a vacation in Europe. To some people, Budapest is just a song by George Ezra. But, Hungary’s Capital is one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its rich history and grandiose buildings. Settled alongside the Danube River, Budapest is a mix of painful memories and a modern lifestyle.
Visiting it when it’s cold won’t allow you to enjoy this magical place fully. After all, most things to do in Budapest include exploring historical sights or swimming in outdoor thermal baths. On the other hand, during the summer, it gets too hot and crowded. So, hiking to the Citadel, for example, it may be too hard of a task for anyone.
If you decide to visit this metropolis anytime soon, we have a great Budapest guide right here!
This is why we believe that Budapest is among the best places to visit in May. Temperatures are perfect for long walks and exploration. From the Parliament to the Fisherman’s Bastion and the Buda Castle, you’ll love every second there. For an exceptional view, try crossing the mesmerizing Chain Bridge and relax while watching the river peacefully flowing beneath you.
Search for the best hotels in Budapest, Hungary, with rooms starting at $35.
3. Novi Sad, Serbia
Have you ever heard of the notorious Exit Festival in Europe? This event takes place in Novi Sad, which is one of Serbia’s most charming towns. Those looking for the best places to go on holiday this May should surely consider Novi Sad.
This town is the capital of the Province of Vojvodina and has an impressive architecture. While wandering its narrow streets, you’ll find cringe-worthy NATO bombardment monuments from the 90s alongside priceless Austro-Hungarian sights. All this is made even more impressive by the countless modern-looking bars and restaurants filled with classy people.
Among the things one can’t miss when in Novi Sad is the Novi Sad Fortress, The Freedom Square, and the charming Dunavska Street. You can also visit the Strand, which is a famous beach on the Danube River. The town is small, and it’s perfect for those looking for a short escape from their stressful everyday lives.
Search for the best hotels in Novi Sad, Serbia, starting at $25 per night – great for budget travel.
4. Istanbul, Turkey
Are you looking for a beautiful city with great nightlife and priceless historical sights? Well, Istanbul may be the right destination for you. The list of things to do in Istanbul in May is next to endless. After all, this beauty has been the capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. It is on two continents (Asia and Europe), and it’s home to over 15 million people.
What to see in Istanbul, you wonder? Try the Hagia Sophia Museum, The Blue Mosque, or the fantastic Topkapi Palace Museum. I mean, who wouldn’t want to feel like a Sultan even for a single afternoon? If that’s not your thing, wander inside the unique Grand Bazaar or visit the Basilica Cistern that even Dan Brown loves!
Go shopping on Taksim or take a Bosphorus Cruise. The options are endless, and the weather should be on your side. Istanbul is one of the best holiday destinations in May!
Find the best hotels in Istanbul, Turkey.
5. Bali, Indonesia
Bali is a tricky place to visit because it has the rainy season. Go during the wet season, and you can forget about all those Instagram photos you wanted to take. That’s why Bali, Indonesia, is among the best places to travel in May. The rainy season is over by then, and the temperatures are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
According to Holiday Weather, the average Bali Indonesia weather in May is around 82° Fahrenheit. Hottest it gets is about 92° F, and visitors can expect approximately 8 hours of sunshine per day. That’s not bad. Plus, the sea temperature goes to an incredible 82° Fahrenheit. Like we said – perfect for swimming!
While you’re there, you shouldn’t forget about exploring either. So, add the Tegalalang Rice Terrace, the Sekumpul Waterfall, and the Diamond Beach on your bucket list. Check out some yoga and meditation retreats on your vacation. Bali is famous for it.
Search for the best hotels in Bali, Indonesia, rooms starting at $30.
6. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
We once wrote about forgetting all your problems in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. That advice still stands as this destination shines bright in the month of May. Punta Cana has long lines of coconut palms and crystal waters. Endless sandy beaches provide perfect relaxation spots, while friendly locals offer you drinks.
The highest travel season in Punta Cana takes place between December and April. The hurricane season starts from June until November. So, going to Punta Cana in May can be a smart move financially. Also, it’s better for those who prefer to avoid crowds.
In terms of what to do in Punta Cana, the activities range from visiting nature gems and historic sites. The Bavaro Beach and coral reef, the Cap Cana beach and zip lines, and the Manati Park with animal shows are among the top attractions. There are several golf courses, too, if that’s your thing.
Find the best all-inclusive hotels in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
7. Columbus, Ohio
If you want to visit the USA but avoid hot spots like the ever-busy New York, think of Columbus, Ohio. You must be wondering why Columbus is on this list. Named after Christopher Columbus, the state capital is the third-highest populated metropolis across the United States.
So, this leads us to the many awesome things you can visit in Columbus. Let’s start with the Columbus Museum of Art and the Columbus Commons. If you’re a fan of Shakespeare, you can enjoy the classic Theater in the Park event in Schiller Park too. Visit the COSI hands-on science museum and planetarium or the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
As you can see, your Columbus adventure will be more laid back and relaxing. Even though it will be a more contemporary visit than a one to Budapest with all its Austro-Hungarian architectural buildings, it can be lots of fun and unforgettable.
Search for the best hotels in Columbus, OH.
8. Orlando, Florida
It’s unnecessary to promote something that offers a freaking Walt Disney World Resort. Add the Universal Orlando Resort alongside the Magic Kingdom Park and you have a winner. If you want the best May vacation, go to Orlando, Florida – especially if you are traveling with children!
Orlando is the theme park capitol of the USA. It’s all about entertainment, having fun and enjoying life. However, don’t let this fool you. There are many other things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.
For example, visit the marvelous Lake Eola or the Orange County Regional History Center. Orlando also has an impressive Museum of Art as well as a Science Center. As the weather in Orlando is already hot in May, you’ll be able to enjoy lots of beautiful outside walks.
Search for the best hotels in Orlando, FL.
9. Marrakech, Morocco
Most tour operators in Morocco advice tourists wanting to visit the African deserts, the Bouskoura Forest or Marrakech, to go there in May. The weather is delightful then, and not too hot. It is the peak season for visiting Morocco.
There are lots of unique things to do in Marrakech. You can discover Ben Youssef Madrasa or explore the ruins of Badi Palace. You can try a camel burger (why though?) or get lost in Jemaa el-Fnaa.
Plus, Marrakech is among the inexpensive places to travel to for now. It’s quite popular, yet much cheaper than top European destinations. For more travel tips for visiting Morocco, check out our informative article written by a Moroccan tour operator.
With rooms starting at $30 per night, find the best hotels in Marrakech, Morocco.
10. Petra, Jordan
Walkways through rock walls, temples in caves, monasteries carved in stone – those are only a few of the Petra Jordan tourist attractions. Petra is a magical destination for those who seek adventure and ancient historical sights. Al-Khazneh, Siq, Ad Deir, The Great Temple are all spots that will amaze you as soon as you lay eyes on them.
Due to its location, the climate in Petra is a desert one. With scorching hot and dry summers and rainy winters, May is the perfect month for going to Petra. The temperatures are still high during the month and reach an incredible 86° F. Still, if you prepare yourself appropriately, you won’t have any issues on your trip.
Search for the best hotels near Petra, Jordan, here.
11. Bonus: Benelux Union (Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg)
We said that we had a bonus destination for you. Surprise – it’s three separate countries! If you want a chic girls’ trip across Europe, put a pin on Benelux! Benelux is a politico-economic union of Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg – hence the name.
These three charming and safe countries have a rich history and many sights. It’s great to rent a car and go on an unforgettable Benelux tour this May. Between the three of them, the number of attractions is vast.
You have the Grand Palace, the Manneken Pis, and the Atomium in Belgium. There are the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Keukenhof in the Netherlands. Then prepare to be amazed by the Vianden Castle, the Adolphe Bridge, and the Grand Ducal Palace in Luxembourg.
These three countries are among the top holiday destinations in May. Together, they’re just impossible to ignore and a must-have adventure!
Search for the best hotels in Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg.
Summary
Well, we came to the bittersweet end of the list with the best holiday destinations to visit this May. If you need planning tips, check our travel resource page for more tips.
