The best places to visit in Europe in May
Blooming flowers, shorter lines, and warmer weather—these are a few of our favorite reasons to visit Europe in May. Dig into why this is one of the best months to plan your Europe trip.
Visiting Europe in May means you get the best of the shoulder season, which is the period of time right before and after peak travel season. Europe in May means warm—not hot—temperatures that are ideal for exploring outdoor sites like Greek ruins or Alpine hiking trails. You can also expect thinner crowds, lower prices, and a kaleidoscope of blooming flowers across the continent. As the natural world bursts to life, May is the best time to enjoy all that Europe has to offer, from its verdant public parks to its lively spring festivals—all with more elbow room.
What are the best places to visit in Europe in May?
The best places to visit in Europe in May depend on what you want to do, see, and eat. The continent encompasses 44 countries and spans roughly four million square miles—so there are plenty of different options for both first-time and experienced travelers. Our list includes Portugal, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Ireland, Switzerland, France, Spain, and the Netherlands. Each of these countries offers comfortable temperatures, spring flowers, fewer crowds than in summer, and seasonal festivals, all of which make visiting Europe in May one of the best travel experiences.
See even more of the best places to visit in Europe →
The nine best places to visit in Europe in May
1. Portugal
Visiting Portugal in May means you’ll get sunny days with temperatures in the mid-60s F in certain regions, which makes exploring bustling cities like Lisbon and quieter cities like Porto without overheating possible. Coastal locales like the Algarve will be the warmest, with temperatures in the mid-70s F. Expect the beaches to be less crowded—a perfect pairing with the country’s longer, brighter days. Travelers can experience this on our A Week in Portugal: Porto, Evora & Lisbon tour in May and add the Algarve extension to get the best of Portugal in one trip. Opulent churches, palaces, countryside, sparkling coastlines, and mouthwatering food and wine await.
Learn more about the best time to visit Portugal →
2. Italy
There’s never a bad time to head to Italy, but when it comes to where to go in Europe in May, Italy always tops our lists. It’s the perfect time of year for anyone looking to visit buzzing cities like Florence and Rome without peak-season crowds and overwhelming heat. Plus, places like the Amalfi Coast are just gearing up for the summer season—which means shorter lines, cooler days, and lower prices at some of the most beautiful coastal towns in Italy. Looking for a trip in May that will whisk you to iconic cities like Florence and Venice, plus natural beauties like Lake Como and the Sorrento Peninsula? Our Grand Tour of Italy does all that and more. You’ll get to experience some of the country’s springtime festivals like Trofeo Marzocco (Marzocco Trophy), which kicks off the season with flag throwers and musicians. You can also participate in the Festa del Grillo (Festival of Crickets), which is a celebration of good fortune featuring food, music, and lots of toy crickets to take home as a souvenir.
3. Greece
May in Greece marks the beginning of island-hopping season. It’s also one of the best times to visit the country’s archaeological wonders without overheating, and ferry conditions are ideal (that is to say, there are fewer crowds to contend with). On our bestselling A Week in Greece: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini tour, you’ll get to see Athens’ open-air museums like the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus before your Tour Director guides you to chic Mykonos and glamorous Santorini for sunsets, calderas, and a local wine tasting. If the water is warm enough, go ahead and take a dip in the aquamarine waters of the Aegean!
4. Croatia
The Adriatic coastline is stunning no matter what time of year, but in May, before the summer crowds rush in, it’s even better. One way to experience this is on our A Week in Croatia: Zagreb, Split & Dubrovnik tour, which includes some of the best places to visit in Europe in May. Visit spots like Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for its 16 levels of lakes nestled between Mount Mala Kapela and Mount Pljesevica, and Split, a coastal city whose local culture seamlessly combines tradition and modernity. Expect pleasant daytime temperatures in the low- to mid-70s F with up to 10 hours of sunshine to soak up on those stunning beaches.
Learn more about why you need to visit Dubrovnik, Croatia →
5. Ireland
If there’s one thing you can count on when it comes to the Emerald Isle, it’s the country’s verdant landscape—and May is the prime time to soak up Ireland's green landscapes, wildflowers, and longer days on our Ireland: The Wild Atlantic Way tour. You’ll start in Northern Ireland’s Belfast to learn about its long history and have the option to see its world-famous Giant’s Causeway (pro tip: book this optional excursion!). Next, jet off to sites like the Cliffs of Moher—all without pushing your way to the front for a good photo, because the summer crowds are a month away. Temperatures swing from the high 40s to the high 50s F, so pack layers and get excited for hot toddies and homemade shepherd’s pie.
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6. Switzerland
Alpine meadows bursting to life, snowcapped mountain views in the distance, and comfortable sightseeing weather await you in Switzerland in May. Join our A Week in Switzerland by Train: St. Moritz, Zermatt & Interlaken tour and experience the country via one of its greatest triumphs: its railway system. Coast through the Alps and take in the elegant heart of three Swiss gems—St. Moritz, Zermatt, and Interlaken—with plenty of chances to step off the train. You’ll get to step out into that crisp Alpine air daily and fully understand why Switzerland is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May.
7. Spain
No one throws a spring festival like the Spanish, and May is just the beginning of Spain’s festival season. Expect events like Madrid’s annual Fiesta de San Isidro, a celebration of the city’s patron saint. Early May is also when Los Caballos del Vino, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event, takes place in Caravaca de la Cruz. The equestrian festival stars the city’s horses, which are bedecked in hand-embroidered silks and paraded through the city for days. Trips like our Grand Tour of Spain offer a chance for travelers to experience the country’s festivals during long days of sunshine. Weather varies by region, with scattered rain showers throughout most of the country. The warmest areas are in central and southern Spain—which get as warm as 80 F.
Debating between Spain and Portugal? Discover which country is right for your next trip →
8. France
Warm days, brisk evenings, blooming flowers, and fresh produce like asparagus, strawberries, and cherries—all of this and more is served up in France in May. Join our A Week in France: The Riviera, Provence & Paris tour to experience the South of France at a time of year when the Mediterranean days are full of sunshine and warmth, not crowds. Travel from the cultural hub of Nice to the City of Light in just nine days, taking in the stunning scenery from your train to Paris. You’ll get to watch vineyards awaken for the new season and stop in Avignon, one of the best European cities to visit in May. Known for its local markets, which start popping up as early as April, Avignon in May is a must-visit for any farmers market lover. Shop the stalls for lavender and honey products, fresh produce, and local wine—all without the summer crowds.
9. The Netherlands
While there are plenty of reasons to visit the Netherlands year-round, Amsterdam is one of the best European cities to visit in May. The city’s world-famous tulips are in full bloom from late March to early May, making it a perfect destination for flower lovers. Plus, you can enjoy outdoor festivals like Rollende Keukens (Rolling Kitchens), when around 100 mobile kitchens get to showcase their cuisine in the Westerpark neighborhood. Liberation Day is also in early May and is celebrated with concerts and festivals across the city. Settle into the city on our A Week in Amsterdam tour and enjoy eight days of tulips, festivals, and canals. Plus, you’ll get access to museums like the Anne Frank House, which you can explore as slowly as you need, taking the time to pay homage to the bravery, loss, and tremendous impact of the Frank family.
What is the weather like in Europe in May?
The weather across the continent varies greatly in May, but in many countries, expect comfortable temperatures that are perfect for exploring outdoor sites, especially as the days become longer.
The weather in southern Europe in May
- Portugal. Temperatures range from 64-75 F (18-24 C), with rainfall that averages about one to five inches. Our suggestion: Stay coastal to enjoy warmer temperatures and beach days with fewer crowds.
- Spain. Temperatures range from 50-80 F (10-27 C), with rainfall that averages about one to six inches. Our suggestion: Visit central cities like Madrid for drier weather, or head south for even less rain and cool beach days.
- Italy. Temperatures range from 50-77 F (10-25 C), with rainfall that averages about one to six inches. Our suggestion: Visit the Amalfi Coast for its stunning towns, crystal waters, and, of course, the gelato, with fewer crowds than in the summer.
- Greece. Temperatures range from 63-77 F (17-25 C), with rainfall that averages less than one to three inches. Our suggestion: The Greek Islands are best enjoyed with fewer crowds, which is a perk of going in May. Plus, you’ll see few rain showers and won’t have to elbow your way onto any ferries as you island hop.
- Croatia. Temperatures range from 63-75 F (17-24 C) along the coast and 52-73 F (11-23 C) inland, with rainfall that averages about two to five and a half inches. Our suggestion: Stay coastal for warm and sunny beach days and clear views of that crystalline blue water.
The weather in western Europe in May
- France. Temperatures range from 46-68 F (8-20 C), with rainfall that averages about one and a half to just over six inches. Our suggestion: Southern France comes to life in May, so head south for brisk beach days and blooming wildflowers. Or visit the City of Light for shorter lines to sites like the Louvre and Versailles.
- The Netherlands. Temperatures range from 48-77 F (9-25 C), with rainfall that averages about two to two and a half inches. Our suggestion: May is one of the sunnier times of year for the Netherlands, so pack your sunglasses and stroll through the tulip gardens of Amsterdam, one of the best European cities to visit in May.
- Ireland. Temperatures range from 45-59 F (7-15 C), with rainfall that averages about two and a half to just over three inches. Our suggestion: If you enjoy a flair for the dramatic, head to the Wild Atlantic Way for a blustery adventure. If you’d rather be drier (and warmer), settle into Dublin for a pint and some craic.
The weather in central and Alpine Europe in May
- Switzerland. Temperatures range from 45-68 F (7-20 C), with rainfall that averages about two to nine inches. Our suggestion: The closer you get to the Alps, the more rain you’ll experience, so keep that in mind when you book. No matter where you go, though, expect cool weather ideal for spring hikes, where you can enjoy snowcapped scenery and the blooming Alpine flowers.
What to pack for Europe in May
As in many other places in the springtime, Europe’s May weather can vary by city, region, and even time of day. Here’s a list of the best things to pack for your trip to Europe in May so that you won’t be caught in a rainstorm without a raincoat or a plan.
Clothing essentials
- Lightweight layers. Packing light layers is an easy way to make sure you’re always warm enough without taking up too much room in your bag. (Save that room for souvenirs!)
- Sweater or jacket. Many countries in Europe experience 20-degree temperature changes between morning and night, so packing a warm layer will be key once the sun sets.
- Comfortable walking shoes. No matter what time of year you’re visiting Europe, comfortable walking shoes are a must—there’s no need to contend with blisters after a day of exploring Europe in May.
- A raincoat. Depending on the European destination you’re visiting in May, rain may be likely. Pack your rain jacket or consider a foldable raincoat that can easily be stored in your purse or pocket just in case. That way, you won’t have to derail your plans waiting out a rain shower.
- Breathable clothing. The weather in Europe in May can swing from quite warm (in the high 70s F in some regions!) to downright brisk (think: 45 F), so bringing breathable or sweat-wicking clothes will keep you from getting a chill as your day comes to a close.
Accessories to pack for Europe in May
- Sunglasses. Protect your eyes during the long, sunny days, no matter where you go in Europe in May.
- Reusable water bottle. Support our Responsible Travel initiatives and reduce single-use plastics by bringing a reusable water bottle. Plus, many of the best European cities to visit in May, such as Rome, have safe, free water fountains throughout the city to fill up at!
- A day bag. Bringing a small day bag will make your days out and about a little easier. You can use it for souvenirs, your reusable water bottle, and any rain gear you bring along.
- A travel umbrella. It would be safe to expect some scattered showers no matter where you are in Europe in May. Pack a small travel umbrella that can easily fit in your pocket, purse, or day bag to be prepared.
- A power adapter. Don’t forget that different countries use different outlets, meaning you’ll need an adapter to charge your phone, camera battery, and any other personal appliances you want to bring. Check the FAQs on your tour page to see exactly what type of adapter you will need for the country you’re visiting.
What to pack for warm European destinations in May
- Lighter clothing. Think: sweat-wicking and breathable light layers, and maybe even a bathing suit cover-up.
- Sun protection. Places like the Greek Islands get plenty of sun and will be very dry in May—don’t forget your sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses.
- Swimsuit. Beaches in Europe will be open in May, so pack your swimsuit if you’re headed to southern France, Spain, Portugal, or Greece.
FAQs
Thea fell in love with travel as soon as she arrived in Venice, Italy on a family trip as a child. Since then, she has made having adventures around the world a priority, with trips like retracing her grandfather’s steps through WWII, climbing glaciers in Alaska, and horseback riding in Iceland. Thea is a nomad at heart, always planning the next trip. In her off-time she is working on a novel inspired by the woman she was named after, mixing cocktails, and watching any procedural crime show she can find.
