The atmosphere in Europe during May is well talked about, with calm winters in the north and mild weather in the south. Undoubtedly, this should be the month when you plan on taking a trip to Europe.
First of all, Europe has over 800 cities in total. And where exactly to go and which place to visit is daunting. The word “daunting” can still be an understatement.
Suppose you’ve decided to be here, excellent! You have made a fantastic choice. Ample day trips, famous sights, a trail of natural beauty, glorious beaches, historical sights, and so much more.
Let’s move on to the places on our list for May!
1. Festive Season of Scotland
As part of the United Kingdom, Scotland has many things to boast about, be it the exquisite views from the castles, its people, its beverages, or its culture. The country is highly welcoming to tourists, so you will find it worth visiting.
Several festivals are going to be held in May in the country. The list of festivals includes The Arran Mountain Festival (something that hill climbers would enjoy!), Bonfest, Children Festival, Whiskey Festival and another handful of them
The weather will be mild with a bit of sun, and vacations in European countries don’t commence until June; therefore, kids are still at school, and ex-pats are in their workplaces. The relatively empty spaces will be better for you as a traveller.
2. Skomer Island of West Wales
If you ever get the chance to visit Skomer Island, consider it an honour. The beauty and energy offered by this place are unparalleled.
If you love nature and animals, this place will be heaven. Puffins are the most well-known bird species here, although several others are also available, like Manx Shearwater and some rabbits.
You can take a boat trip from the Pembrokeshire coast, which lasts about 15 minutes until you get to the island.
3. Spring Season in Norway
Norway experiences extreme weather for most of the year, but May is considered the best month to visit. The Spring season brings bearable weather for the people, and there is a lot to do in Norway.
You can start by taking a short train ride and looking at the fjord landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These water streams are considered some of the most beautiful in the world, and there is no way you should miss out on them.
Also, don’t miss the skiing activities if you’re in Norway. The presence of the slopes will make it easier for you to do so.
4. Flower Festival in Madeira, Portugal
Madeira, an archipelago in Portugal, hosts a beautiful flower festival with a parade at its end, a parade where various individuals are dressed up in flowers that bloom on the islands.
The best part about this is that it won’t just be kids who dress up but also people of all ages who celebrate their culture. This is the most anticipated flower festival among the locals, from children to elders and visitors, and the parade’s attractiveness is unreal.
5. Algarve in Portugal
This bijou region of Portugal is known for its scenic beaches, sunny weather, the best destinations, fantastic food, and fascinating history.
Some of the best sights to visit are Ponta de Piedade and Benagil Cave, which provide numerous ways to get there (the cave’s structure will impress you).
Praia-da-marinha is a fantastic beach in the Algarve. You can stroll on the beach and soak up the positive vibes of the surroundings.
6. Explore the Museums and Soccer Matches in Madrid, Spain
Spain is an ideal place for tourism throughout the year due to its favourable climate and for providing various places to visit. May is no exception; since the vacation period hasn’t started yet, there will be a smaller crowd here.
Madrid is home to world-class museums such as theional Museum, Museo Nacional and Museo Cerralbo. However, before visiting, please inquire about the opening and closing times.
You should consider watching a match here if you’re a Real Madrid or other soccer club fan. Soccer matches are continuously held in this city, and you can try your luck to grab a ticket and watch the game.
7. The Sunny Beaches Of Turkey
Who doesn’t enjoy it when a part of their Day is spent at the shore? Turkey, a blissful country, has some great beaches perfect for families.
Kaputas Beach is a smaller yet enthralling one. The landscape view is perfect; almost every part of the beach is picturesque, with clear waters and a bright, sunny day. The restaurants and hotels in which to stay are in close vicinity.
Do you find the name Kleopatra Beach familiar? It’s named after the female Egyptian ruler Kleopatra, who supposedly fell in love with the beach due to its immaculate beauty. You can take sightseeing boat trips to the alluring nature or rent sunbeds.
Iztuzu Beach is also known as Turtle Beach. The name already reveals the beach’s key feature: it’s a nesting place for turtles.
If wildlife enthusiasts want to learn more, the Turtle Conservation Centre at the beach will provide more information.
8. Helsinki in Finland
If you enjoy cultural programs, May is undoubtedly the right time for you to visit Helsinki.
World Village Festival, a leading festival, is celebrated around this time. Different performances are held, discussions and debates regarding the sustainable development of the notable are held, speeches are held, food stalls are held, and so on.
Other than this, you can visit the Helsinki Flower Market, take a walking tour, see the museums in the city, and the Helsinki Cathedral
9. Busy Buzzing Trip To London
You will hear this everywhere: May is the best time to visit London as many events and festivals are lined up.
Here are the ones we believe are the best. RHS Chelsea Flower Show, West Norwood Feast, and Women’s FA Cup Final. Plus, there is a theatre full of amazing shows, planned family activities, shopping, sightseeing, etc.
Check out the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Tower Of London and The Royal Botanical Gardens At Kew.
10. Bath – The UNESCO World Heritage Site
Baths have been considered significant, and the Roman Baths are by far the most popular attraction in the city. They are well-preserved and offer a pretty view. However, you can no longer take a dip.
You can try climbing Bath Abbey’s Tower, visit the Jane Austen Centre, and stroll on Sion Hill and Pulteney Bridge.
11. Lavender Fields of Provence
The land of Franks is nothing short of remarkable for delivering eye-candy-like places. However, the fascinating beauty of Provence is not talked about much.
The Lavender FieldsValensole lavender fields are incredibly scenic. You can take a car to explore this place, Provence’s most photographed spot.
Drome Provencale lavender fields are also some of the most beautiful. You can travel through them either on foot or by bicycle.
These lavender fields are underrated holiday destinations but worth the try!
12. City of Prague
Prague has too many events and celebrations stored for May. So if you live in Prague, especially in May, we assure you this will be an adventure.
The Day of Love is celebrated on May 1st. Most workers take a day off and spend leisure time with their families. If you’re in the city, you can witness this as well.
The Prague Asian Festival will be celebrated at the beginning of May. Food, music, and ambience are typical of Asian cultures.
May 8 is widely celebrated in Prague as, on this very Day, the German soldiers were defeated in the country. If you’re present here, you will hear many things related to this event at this particular point in time.
13. A Trip to Paris in May
Travelling to Paris, the country’s capital, never gets old. It is one of the most beautiful holiday destinations that Europe has to offer and never seems to be out of style.
You’ve probably heard this for the nth time now, but we will still say it. Buy a package involving the Eiffel Tower. Witnessing one of the world’s seven wonders with your own eyes is a different pleasure.
The Louvre Museum is another trendy destination in the area. The Cimetiere du Père Lachaise and Père Lachaise Cemetery are two of the most well-known cemeteries. Make sure to visit them.
Another fact that is mainly overlooked regarding Paris is that it provides some of the most brilliant boat tours, cruise experiences, and unforgettable dinners.
If you’re in Paris, do everything mentioned above for a memorable experience.
14. Enjoy the Pleasant Weather in Vienna, Austria
Austria is home to some of the most beautiful architecture in the world, and the country’s beauty is well-known, while Vienna is simply the best.
The weather is the best during April-May in Vienna, with temperatures averaging from 16°C to 20°C during the Day, which is ideal for most travellers.
The Balkan Street Food Festival will be held in Vienna this May. If you would love to try the different dishes Austria offers, you must find a way to participate in this festival.
There are also concerts in the city; if you like classical music, you must attend one.
15. Boat Trips in Hamburg, Germany
The sunny weather provided by Germany during May favours visitors exploring the city.
Boat rides to explore the city of Hamburg are pretty standard here. To make a meticulous decision, you must search for the rides with the correct sources.
The cuisine of Hamburg has also made a good amount of noise, especially the traditional dishes. We want to suggest Currywurst, Labskaus, Rote Grütze and Grünkohl.
16. Sunny Weather in Budapest, The Capital of Hungary
The weather in Budapest will be around 20°C, which is bearable and enjoyable for many people.
DO NOT MISS the thermal baths. Imagine going to Budapest, Hungary and not having a thermal bath when it is one of the most prominent tourist destinations.
Expect a few festivals, as it’s already summer in the country. Children’s Day will be celebrated so you can see the decorations around.
Visit the Buda Castle, Budapest History Museum and the other attractions in the city.
17. Sightseeing in Cardiff
Cardiff is by far one of the most well-known cities in Wales. Visit Cardiff Castle, which is beautiful and right in the heart of the city, and you will have a lot to learn about the place.
Another option is the Caerphilly Castle, along with other famous architectures such as Tredegar House, Castle Coch, and Llandaff Cathedral.
18. The City Square of Florence, Italy
Florence was one of the wealthiest nations in the medieval ages. Extensively known for its alluring Renaissance architecture and art, it also used to be known in the textile realm in the past.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore is a colossal church whose construction is mind-blowing. You can book a trip to the church here and explore the destination. Indeed, it won’t disappoint.
During your leisure hours, try navigating the streets of Florence. You will see many eateries and fantastic architecture.
19. Albanian Alps
If you know the law of association, you will naturally associate Albania with its Alps. They are beautiful destinations with waterfalls and greens.
The villagers’ houses are situated here, and the people are hospitable. The Alps haven’t been explored much, so they are free from modern contamination.
Remembering to carry your essentials would be best, as climbing the hill is not easy. You also have to consider the odds of travel.
20. Santorini in Greece
One of Europe’s best travel destinations, Santorini is the perfect place for individuals who prefer a mix of cuisine, adventure, serenity and an understanding of a new culture.
In May, the city will be hot, and you will find a lot of new companions in the summer crowds.
Fira should be on your priority list when exploring the city. It is a major attraction for all travellers.
The springs of Santorini are also well known for their therapeutic properties, so consider taking a dip in one of them.
Several traditional Greek food options are available; indulge yourself to taste the goodness of the place. Also, visit the museums of the place to learn more about the history
21. Milos Island in Greece
Another beautiful island in Greece, about five hours away from the preceding island, Milos Island, though not talked about as much as Santorini, is equally stunning.
Milos has several villages/towns, such as Plaka, Adamas, Pollonia, and Klima. Consider visiting these towns for a beautiful experience.
There are a few beaches available. You can also take a boat tour of the island and have some excellent meals.
22. Climb Martini Tower in Groningen
Climbing 250 floors sounds like fun, and believe us when we say it will be a rewarding experience when you finally reach the apex.
This tower is the most prominent feature of the city of Groningen and its symbol. The Bell Tower is the highest point on the church’s top.
23. Architecture Festival in Copenhagen
This is something that not many of us have witnessed, and Denmark happens to host one such festival.
The connection between life and architecture is a weird combination we do not contemplate enough; for some, this thought hasn’t even crossed our minds.
This festival will be held in May, so if you’re already in Denmark, visit Copenhagen to witness this festival.
There will be several film documentaries, exhibitions, discussions and more. When you go back home, you will take something valuable with you.
24. Watch the Midnight Sun in Abisko, Sweden
The midnight sun Dayrs at midnight sun occurs north.
Abisko, a village in northern Sweden, makes it easier to witness this phenomenon. This will be a blissful experience for those seeing it, as it is uncommon in other parts of the world.
25. Iceland
In Iceland, all the main attractions and sites are open in May. However, we suggest you visit the country towards the end of the month as the temperatures tend to increase.
Go to Thingvellir National Park, where you can try diving, the most popular activity here. Also, take a dip in the hot springs. Whale watching is also standard in this country, and we think you should try it.
A unique way to experience the country is to take road trips. Two popular ones are the Golden Circle and Ring Road. Both will be memorable activities that show you the beauty of the areas.
Wrapping Up
To conclude, it’s the month of May when you can still find most of the destinations open for exploration and travel while getting offers and discounts on the prices, all of this while having a limited number of tourists around.
As you’ve already seen, Europe has much to offer, from picturesque streets to adventurous activities to mouthwatering cuisine. We have listed some places we think are the best to visit during May.
Remember to pack all your essentials before taking off for your trip, and do not forget to capture these moments and share your experiences.
Happy Vacation!
Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Khushahal Malakar
