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Where to go in May: The best places to visit in late spring
Thanks to warmer weather and a handful of bank holidays, May is an ideal time to plan a holiday somewhere exciting. Since the peak months for summer holidays are still to come, May is when you can grab cheap holiday deals to a wide range of destinations. Even better, this is when the weather starts warming up across Europe, which means that you can really make the most of a holiday at this time of year.
No matter which type of holiday you're looking for - whether it's a long-haul trip or a shorter city break - you can reduce the amount of annual leave you need to take thanks to not one, but two bank holidays. Why not make the most of this opportunity by ticking off a destination on your bucket list?
Read on for the best warm-weather destinations in May, as well as the best places to take a city break or staycation.
The best warm-weather destinations in May
May is thought of as a month of transition; after all, this sweet, floral-scented month officially transports you from spring to summer. Warm weather or not, May has a lot to offer no matter where you may find yourself. But if an early beach holiday is what your heart desires, then our May holiday deals won't disappoint!
While most people wait to travel during the peak summer months of July and August, you can still find lovely, warm weather in May - and the deals will be a whole lot cheaper too. You'll also have far fewer crowds, which is another bonus. Here are some of the best warm-weather destinations to visit in May.
1. Cinque Terre
🌡️ Average temperature in May: 22°C
While the temperature may not be blistering hot in May, this is a great month to explore one of Italy's most beautiful coastal destinations. Made up of a series of photogenic seaside villages, Cinque Terre is a hotspot for those who like to explore on foot - and the pleasantly warm weather is ideal for this activity.
2. Florida
🌡️ Average temperature in May: 26°C
One of the most popular holiday destinations in America, Florida is a great choice for May. Home to destinations like Miami, Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, this southern state has a lot going for it - especially for families. If Disney World is on your bucket list, May is one of the best times to go!
3. Mauritius
🌡️ Average temperature in May: 23°C
If an island escape has been on your mind, why not book a May holiday to Mauritius? It's not super hot here during this month, but you can expect it to be pleasantly warm, along with sea temperatures of 26°C. Don't miss out on attractions like Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth or Black River Gorges National Park.
4. Turkey
🌡️ Average temperature in May: 22°C
Turkey is one of our favourite places to be come summertime, but you can also find warm weather here in May. This is especially true for its popular coastal destinations, like Antalya and Bodrum, where you can expect temperatures that reach up to 26°C in May.
5. Brazil
🌡️ Average temperature in May: 23°C
Firmly on the bucket list for many of us, Brazil's balmy weather in May provides the perfect excuse for finally booking a holiday here. For beaches and attractions, head to world-renowned Rio de Janeiro or the northern gem of Fortaleza; remember to pack your swimsuit as the water temperature is a lovely 24°C in May.
6. Canary Islands
🌡️ Average temperature in May: 25°C
A reliable choice for some much-needed sunshine for most of the year, the Canary Islands won't disappoint as the destination for your May holiday. Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerteventura are some of the most popular islands in this chain, with plenty of beaches and attractions to enjoy.
Top city break destinations in May
If you're not so fussed about warm weather and are on the lookout for an action-packed trip, a city break in May may be exactly what you need. This is especially the case if you only have a weekend to work with and are in search of a shorter break.
Whether you're looking to book a city trip as a couple or as a solo adventure, many European destinations are starting to look their best in May - and many seasonal attractions/tours will be on the go at this time of year. And, better yet, you'll be avoiding two things associated with peak-summer city breaks: crowds and sky-high prices!
Once you've booked, check out our city break packing list to make sure you have everything you need.
1. Florence
A beautiful city at any time of year, you'll be able to take advantage of the pleasant weather and explore Florence to your heart's content. Marvel at the priceless artworks at the Uffizi Gallery or grab a gelato and wander along Ponte Vecchio, one of the prettiest bridges in the world. If you want to do a day trip, Pisa and its famous tower are only an hour away by train.
2. Paris
The French capital is an ideal destination for May. Not only is it easy to get to, but Paris hosts Nuit des Musées in May. Held on the third Saturday of the month, this event sees over 30 museums and cultural spots stay open late into the night, with some even hosting live music. And, if you've never been to Paris before, you can squeeze in a visit to the Eiffel Tower and Louvre too.
3. Stockholm
The Swedish capital springs to life in May, with cherry blossoms blooming in Kungsträdgården Park and cafe patios that are packed with sun-seeking locals. The cheerful atmosphere invites visitors to make the most of their day outside; Tantolunden Park offers hours and hours of exploration and a walk along the Norr Mälarstrand trail gives you great views of the Old Town (particularly at sunset).
4. Valencia
Located on Spain's southeastern coastline, Valencia offers a perfect mix of beautiful, historical buildings and ultra-modern, sleek architecture. You can especially see the latter at the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences complex, where you'll find museums, a planetarium and an aquarium. To make things even better, temperatures can reach the low 20°Cs in May.
5. Dubrovnik
Why not experience one of Croatia's most iconic destinations - but without the crowds that descend on it every summer? May is a great time to visit Dubrovnik; this ancient walled city is extremely photogenic and it's close to a number of top beaches too. Temperatures can reach up to 23°C this month, providing the perfect weather to explore the city and take a day trip or two.
6. Brighton
If you'd love to have the city break but don't want to fly, a staycation in May is a fantastic choice. Brighton is particularly lovely at this time of year; you won't have balmy weather but it'll be pleasant enough to explore the city's attractions and outdoor spots. What's more, Brighton Festival is held every May, where numerous venues offer all manner of performance arts events.
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