Where is hot in May for a pre-summer getaway?

Wondering where is hot in May? From islands with clear blue skies to culture-packed sunny cities, there are so many places that come into their prime in May.

Depending on which hemisphere you’re in, May will most likely sit within the spring or autumn shoulder seasons. Just like September, October, and April, it’s typically a great month for a warm holiday.

What’s more, as May sits outside most school holiday periods, prices are usually cheaper and there are fewer people to contend with for sunbeds and attractions. In need of a barefoot beach break? Or maybe you’re craving a weekend somewhere warm in Europe? Here we take a look at 10 hot places in May to add to your 2024 travel itinerary.

Where is hot in May?

Filter below by price or temperature to find the best warm destination for you based on KAYAK data, or keep reading for more info on the best hot spots this month.

Where is hot in May in Europe

May is the perfect month to explore Europe, especially if you want some sun without the crowds. Take your pick of relaxing beach getaways or embrace some local culture with a last-minute city break.

1. Athens, Greece

Average temperature in May: 21℃

If you’ve always wanted to wander among the legendary ruins of Athens, May couldn’t be a better month to visit. Greece’s capital city is at a manageable temperature at this time of year, with averages sitting around 21℃.

These are the perfect conditions for sightseeing – and there are so many treasures to take in! Must-sees include the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Ancient Agora. May is also a brilliant time to visit the city’s National Garden. The former royal garden turned public park is awash with tropical plants, many of which will be in full bloom.

Planning a visit in late spring will also be cheaper than the peak summer months, with hotel prices according to KAYAK data sitting at around £124 per night. For even fewer crowds at the city’s major attractions, visit mid-week.

2. Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Average temperature in May: 18℃

There’s no need to hold out til the summer for a Mediterranean beach break. The Balearic Island of Mallorca is one of the best holiday destinations in May for European sunshine – plus hotel prices and flights tend to be cheaper than peak season.

I’d recommend basing yourself in the island’s capital, Palma de Mallorca, for a May getaway. This will give you access to a range of attractions, from blissful beaches to historic castles and ornate cathedrals. Palma also has a fabulous dining scene, with restaurants scattered along its waterfront and in its idyllic old town.

Staying for a week or more? You might also want to hire a car in Mallorca and explore further. My top picks are the picture-perfect hilltop towns of Deia and Soller on the island’s west coast.

3. Lisbon, Portugal

Average temperature in May: 17℃

Lisbon is fast becoming one of Europe’s most popular destinations for a city break – and for good reason. It has something to entice everyone, from delicious food and charming architecture to history galore. May is a particularly great time to visit before the busy summer season. Average daily temperatures are also at a comfortable 17℃ (which is perfect for those who love to explore new places on foot).

For a dose of Portuguese history and fantastic views of the sea and sky, make your way to Alfama. It’s one of Lisbon’s oldest neighbourhoods and home to São Jorge Castle. Stroll among the 11th century ruins, soak up the panoramic vistas and keep your eyes peeled for the resident peacocks. Afterwards, stop off at nearby Pastelaria Santo António – my favourite place to buy pasteis de natas (Portuguese custard tarts).

Speaking of food, the Timeout Food Market near Cais do Sodré station is a must-visit – arguably one of the best food markets in Europe. After some day trip options? Catch the train inland to Sintra to tour its splendid castles or venture up the coast to Cascais for some sunshine and sea air.

4. Vienna, Austria

Average temperature in May: 17℃

Grand palaces, incredible art, delicious local cuisine. Vienna really does have it all! May is a sublime time to visit, too – and not just for the temperate weather.

May is also when the Austrian capital hosts a range of cultural festivals, plus there are numerous fantastic art exhibitions to check out in 2024. This includes an early summer show dedicated to Roy Lichtenstein at the Albertina Museum and a special exhibition at the Wien Museum featuring works by Secessionist artists (think Klimt and Stuck).

Foodies will also love Vienna in May. Make the most of warmer, drier days at the Genuss Festival in Stadtpark. Sample regional wines and stuff your face with the best Austrian cuisine. Keen to book a trip over that first May Bank Holiday weekend? You’ll have timed it perfectly for the European Street Food Festival.

5. Nice, France

Average temperature in May: 17℃

The French Riviera has long been imbued with a sense of glamour. While it’s breathtaking beaches and glittering cities become thronged with visitors in summer, May is usually a little less chaotic. As temperatures aren’t quite high enough for guaranteed sunbathing, you’ll want to pick a destination with plenty of other allures.

Nice is a prime candidate and has a host of attractions to keep you busy. Get lost exploring the Baroque marvels and charming boutiques in its Old Town. Swot up on the region’s ancient history at the hilltop Musee D’Archeologie. Or sample delicious local produce with a visit to a city food market. May is also when the Cannes Film Festival is hosted just up the coast. Meaning? You might just spot a few celebrities wining and dining in Nice.

If you’re looking for a cheaper escape though, it’s best to avoid visiting around the Film Festival. The month also hosts several French public holidays (including Labor Day on the 1st and Ascension on the 9th). On these days, many things close down across the city – including local transport services and museums.

6. Madrid, Spain

Average temperature in May: 16℃

Another Spanish destination worth a visit in May is Madrid. While many might overlook it in favour of Barcelona, it’s equally as beautiful and hosts just as many artistic gems. This includes the Prado Museum that’s teeming with works by some of Spain’s most notable artists.

Wondering why it’s one of the best holiday destinations in May? That’s partly down to its wonderfully warm climate which will see you enjoying pleasant temperatures of around 16℃-21℃. Great for those who want some warmth on their face, it’s also not too hot for those who want to spend hours on end exploring the city’s elegant streets.

What’s more, May is also a month of numerous festivities in Madrid. This includes Dos de Mayo which celebrates the city’s uprising against Napoleon in 1808. Expect to see the city come alive with parades, music concerts and street parties. 15 May is when Madrid celebrates its patron saint: San Isidro Labrador. It’s an incredible vibrant festival featuring wonderful costumes, lively dance performances and heaps of tasty local food.

Best long-haul holiday destinations in May for sun

When it comes to where’s hot in May, you’ll still need to venture beyond Europe for really scorching temperatures. Whether you’re after a balmy beach break or a more unique adventure in some of the world’s most incredible landscapes, here’s my favourite long-haul suggestions.

7. Cancun, Mexico

Average temperature in May: 29℃

If you’re searching for a good old-fashioned beach getaway Cancun in May is a great option. The Mexican resort is a great place to jet off to for a little vitamin D (and plenty of cocktails in the sun).

At this time of year, temperatures sit comfortably in the high 20s, and humidity levels are still pretty low. While the occasional rain shower is possible, it rarely pours for more than an hour or so. This gives you plenty of hours in the day for lazing around on one of the city’s white sand beaches. Cancun is also a jumping-off point for visits to various Mayan treasures, including Chichen Itza and Tulum.

Another thing worth noting about a late spring escape in Cancun is the price. According to KAYAK data, May is one of the cheapest times to visit outside of hurricane season (typically June to November), with average flight prices sitting at just over £500.

8. Orlando, USA

Average temperature in May: 25℃

Want to tick Disney World off your bucket list? Or maybe you’re more interested in Florida’s fantastic range of local wildlife? Either way, May is an ideal time of year for a trip to Orlando.

In May, the temperatures are usually in the mid-20s during the day, which is much more manageable than the summer months. There are many other benefits to visiting just outside of the high season, too. This includes spring-themed events like the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival where you can admire incredible topiary and sample treats made from the local plant life.

While May is the start of the rainy season in the nearby Everglades National Park, the chance of showers is still fairly low with average precipitation at just 84 mm. It’s also one of the quietest months to visit, meaning you’ll experience fewer boats cruising along the region’s waterways in search of crocodiles and leatherback turtles.

9. Taipei, Taiwan

Average temperature in May: 25℃

My next suggestion for where’s hot in May takes you to the opposite side of the world and an island nation few people have on their radars: Taiwan. May is a glorious time to visit its capital, Taipei – a city known for its melting pot of Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian cultures.

I’d suggest booking a trip at the very start of May for two reasons. One: you’ll miss the so-called Plum Rain season (or only catch the very beginning of it) which sweeps across the country in early summer, bringing showers and high humidity levels. And two: you might be lucky to catch the very end of Taiwan’s cherry blossom season.

There’s so much to keep you occupied in Taipei, come rain or sun. Check out the views from the lofty Taipei 101 Observatory, sample delicious local grub at the Shilin Night Market, or check out the thousands of awesome artefacts at the National Palace Museum. You could also make the most of those balmy 25℃ days with a day trip Taroko Gorge National Park. It’s bursting with hiking trails and enchanting waterfalls.

10. Dubai, UAE

Average temperature in May: 30℃

If a desert adventure is calling your name, put Dubai on your radar. It’s a popular spot for heat all year round. However, planning your trip in May is a sensible idea if you want to avoid the unbelievably hot summer temperatures and keep costs low.

May sits within Dubai’s low season for tourism, meaning you’ll have fewer crowds to contend with at major attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Kite Beach. Dubai hotels usually average out at around £74 a night (cheaper than many of the European destinations I’ve listed above).

Day time temperatures will start to approach the high 30s by the end of the month. Don’t let that put you off, though. There are plenty of ways to cool off, from swimming at water parks and beaches to seeking refuge in one of Dubai’s air-conditioned mega malls. You could also plan an evening desert safari or even an overnight camping experience; temperatures typically plummet after sunset in the dunes.

Where’s hot and cheap in May?

With accommodation sitting at around £84 a night and average temperatures at 18℃, Mallorca is a brilliant option for a cheap European sun break in May. For something even warmer, check out Orlando where average hotel prices are £125 per night and the daily temperatures are 25℃.

Want even more inspiration for where to go on your next trip? Check out the best places to visit in June and July, or try KAYAK Explore to discover the best deals on destinations for your chosen dates.