May is that sweet travel month when the weather is kind, crowds are lighter, and prices haven’t gone wild yet. If you want a trip that feels relaxed but still exciting, May is hard to beat. The best places to visit in May 2026 and 2027 are destinations with mild weather, blooming nature, and fewer tourists, like Japan, Italy, Turkey, Bali, Morocco, the Greek Islands, Yosemite, Paris, and Iceland. These places truly shine in May.
Why May is one of the best months to travel
May sits between spring and summer. That means:
- Warm days, cool nights
- Flowers, green landscapes, and fresh air
- Fewer crowds compared to June, July, and August
- Better hotel and flight prices in many places
It’s perfect for sightseeing, nature trips, and even beaches in some regions.
Best places to visit in May 2026 & 2027
Japan (Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka)
May is calm after cherry blossom season. The weather is pleasant, and gardens are still beautiful.
Why go in May:
- Comfortable temperatures
- Clear skies
- Less tourist rush compared to April
Good for: culture, food, walking tours
Italy (Rome, Florence, Amalfi Coast)
Italy feels alive in May without the heavy summer crowds.
Why go in May:
- Great weather for walking
- Coastal towns start warming up
- Easier to enjoy famous spots
Good for: history, food, romantic trips
Turkey (Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya)
Turkey offers amazing value in May with lovely spring weather.
Why go in May:
- Not too hot yet
- Hot air balloons fly regularly
- Beaches start opening up
Good for: culture, scenery, budget-friendly travel
Bali, Indonesia
May marks the start of the dry season, which makes it one of the best months to visit.
Why go in May:
- Less rain
- Lush green views
- Fewer crowds than peak summer
Good for: beaches, relaxation, couples
Morocco (Marrakech, Fes, Chefchaouen)
Before the summer heat hits, May is ideal for exploring Morocco.
Why go in May:
- Warm but not extreme
- Easy to explore cities and markets
- Great time for desert trips
Good for: culture, colors, photography
Greek Islands (Santorini, Crete, Rhodes)
May is peaceful and beautiful in Greece.
Why go in May:
- Mild weather
- Lower prices
- Easy island hopping
Good for: beaches, views, slow travel
Yosemite National Park, USA
May brings snowmelt, which means powerful waterfalls.
Why go in May:
- Waterfalls at their best
- Fewer visitors than summer
- Fresh spring scenery
Good for: nature lovers, hiking
Paris, France
Paris in May feels light, fresh, and romantic.
Why go in May:
- Flowers everywhere
- Café weather
- Long daylight hours
Good for: city walks, couples, food lovers
Iceland
May is the start of the travel season in Iceland.
Why go in May:
- Roads reopen
- Longer daylight
- Fewer tourists than summer
Good for: road trips, nature, photography
Pros & Cons of traveling in May
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Mild and pleasant weather | Some mountain areas may still have snow |
| Fewer crowds than summer | Sea water can be cool in some places |
| Better travel deals | Weather can change quickly in a few regions |
| Great for sightseeing | Popular spots still book up fast |
Real-world examples
- A couple visiting Italy in May can explore Rome comfortably without extreme heat.
- A family trip to Japan in May allows easy walking and relaxed sightseeing.
- Nature lovers visiting Yosemite in May get to see waterfalls at their strongest.
- Beach travelers in Bali enjoy sunny days before peak-season crowds arrive.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Is May a good month to travel internationally?
Yes. May offers good weather, fewer tourists, and better prices in many countries.
Is May cheaper than summer for travel?
In most cases, yes. Flights and hotels are often cheaper than June and July.
Which countries are best for May travel?
Japan, Italy, Turkey, Greece, Indonesia, France, and Morocco are excellent choices.
Is May good for beach vacations?
Yes, especially in places like Bali, Greece, Turkey, and southern Europe.
Are there fewer crowds in May?
Usually yes. It’s quieter than peak summer but still lively.
Final verdict
If you want great weather, fewer crowds, and better value, visit in May 2026 and 2027 are perfect times to travel. Whether you love cities, beaches, or nature, May gives you the best balance. Pick a destination that matches your style, book early, and enjoy a trip that feels easy and rewarding.