Best Places to Visit in Europe in May 2025

May is easily one of my favorite months to explore Europe. The crowds haven’t hit their summer peak yet, flowers are in full bloom, and the weather? Absolute perfection—warm enough for outdoor cafés but cool enough to roam cobblestone streets without breaking a sweat. It’s like the continent is waking up and inviting you in.

Over the years, I’ve found that May is the sweet spot for travel—flight prices are still reasonable, hotels aren’t booked out, and local events are just getting started. Whether I’m sipping espresso in an Italian piazza, hiking coastal cliffs in Portugal, or dancing at a spring festival in Spain, there’s this vibrant energy that makes everything feel alive.

In this guide, I’m sharing some of the best places to visit in Europe in May based on my own travels. These aren’t just tourist checklists—they’re places I’ve actually wandered through, gotten lost in, and fallen completely in love with. If you’re planning a spring getaway, trust me—you’ll want to add at least a few of these to your itinerary.

Place Name	Country	Why Visit in May	Top Experience	Weather in May (°C)
Antibes	France	Sunny, less crowded than Nice	Stroll along the Cap d’Antibes coastal path	16–22°C
Azores	Portugal	Wildflowers and whales, pre-summer calm	Whale watching in São Miguel	14–20°C
Bratislava	Slovakia	Charming old town without tourist overload	Walk the castle hill at sunset	13–22°C
Córdoba	Spain	Famous patios in full bloom	Festival de los Patios	15–30°C
Crete	Greece	Perfect weather, early beach days	Explore the Palace of Knossos	17–26°C
Cyprus	Cyprus	Warm sea, blooming landscapes	Swim at Aphrodite’s Rock	20–27°C
Galway	Ireland	Spring festivals and coastal walks	Visit the Cliffs of Moher nearby	10–16°C
Girona	Spain	Temps de Flors flower festival	Explore Game of Thrones filming spots	13–24°C
Kotor	Montenegro	Quiet bay views before summer cruise ships	Climb to San Giovanni Fortress	15–24°C
Norwegian Fjords	Norway	Snow-capped peaks + green valleys	Take a scenic cruise from Flåm	10–18°C
Rhodes	Greece	Historic sites with perfect sunshine	Wander the medieval old town	19–25°C
San Sebastián	Spain	Sunny skies and beach tapas	Try pintxos in Parte Vieja	15–21°C
Sardinia	Italy	Wild beaches and fewer tourists	Swim in Cala Luna	18–25°C
Scottish Highlands	Scotland	Green landscapes + blooming heather	Drive the North Coast 500	8–15°C
Prague	Czech Republic	Fewer crowds, spring blooms in parks	Watch the Astronomical Clock chime	10–20°C
Berlin	Germany	Outdoor cafés and street festivals	Explore the Berlin Wall trail	12–21°C
Lisbon	Portugal	Warm and sunny but not too hot	Ride Tram 28 through Alfama	15–24°C
Ljubljana	Slovenia	Colorful riverside cafés in bloom	Boat ride on the Ljubljanica River	13–23°C
Amsterdam	Netherlands	Tulips still blooming, great for cycling	Visit Keukenhof Gardens	12–19°C

Best Places to Visit in Europe in May

There’s something extra special about Europe in May. Everything starts to bloom, but the summer crowds haven’t quite taken over yet. It’s like the perfect secret window for travelers who want sunshine, adventure, and a little peace of mind. I’ve been lucky enough to explore some of the most beautiful spots during this golden month, and I’m sharing the ones that truly stuck with me.

Perfect For: Beach Lovers & Sunny Escapes

If warm weather, clear skies, and ocean dips are calling your name, these are the coastal European gems I’d happily revisit every May.

1. Crete, Greece

Crete in May is my personal idea of heaven. The island is warm enough to hit the beach, but not so hot that you’re sweating through your sandals. I based myself in Chania and rented a car to explore the pink sands of Elafonissi and the epic Samaria Gorge. The beaches are quiet, the locals are warm, and the food—don’t even get me started on the dakos and grilled octopus.

• Perfect month for hiking, beach days, and ruins without the heat.
• Visit the Palace of Knossos early in the morning to beat the tour buses.
• Local tavernas offer fresh seafood and stunning sunset views.

Whether you’re lounging on the sand or wandering ancient Minoan palaces, May gives you space to explore without elbowing through crowds.

2. Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia in May feels like a dream. The beaches are still quiet, the water’s warming up, and wildflowers cover the hills like a carpet. I stayed near Cala Gonone, where the cliffs tumble into turquoise water. One morning, I kayaked to Cala Luna, and it honestly felt like I had the whole beach to myself.

• Wild, rugged beauty perfect for nature lovers.
• Try the local seadas (cheese-filled pastries with honey).
• Fewer crowds and better hotel deals compared to summer.

If you’re craving solitude and surreal coastline, Sardinia is a perfect May escape.

3. Rhodes, Greece

Rhodes had this magical mix of sunshine and history that totally surprised me. I walked through the medieval old town under sunny skies, then grabbed lunch by the harbor with views of ancient ruins. May hits that sweet spot when the weather is perfect but the cruise ships haven’t fully landed yet.

• Explore the Street of the Knights and Palace of the Grand Master.
• Swim at Anthony Quinn Bay—named after the actor who filmed The Guns of Navarone here.
• Lots of local festivals start in May.

Rhodes in May lets you time-travel and sunbathe in the same day.

4. Cyprus

If you want to swim in May without freezing, Cyprus is the place. I was in Paphos, and the sea was warm enough for long swims. Inland, citrus groves were bursting with fragrance, and the Troodos Mountains had just shed their last bit of snow. I even did a wine tasting in a tiny village surrounded by blooming roses.

• The beaches are golden and uncrowded.
• Visit Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock) at sunset—pure magic.
• Cypriot hospitality is real; I was offered homemade sweets more than once.

It’s the kind of place that balances beach life with culture, effortlessly.

Perfect For: Historic Cities & Cultural Lovers

If you want to walk through history, admire architecture, and soak in centuries of stories, these cities had me completely captivated.

5. Córdoba, Spain

I landed in Córdoba during the Festival de los Patios, and wow—I’ve never seen anything like it. Locals open up their private courtyards, and each one is bursting with color: potted geraniums, climbing vines, tiled fountains. The scent of orange blossom hangs in the air, and flamenco guitar echoes from alleyways.

• The Mezquita (mosque-cathedral) is jaw-dropping inside and out.
• May is the peak of patio season—don’t miss it!
• The evenings are warm and perfect for tapas hopping.

If you love flowers, festivals, and a good glass of local wine, Córdoba will steal your heart.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

May in Prague is something out of a fairy tale. I spent hours just wandering—crossing Charles Bridge in the early morning mist, climbing to the castle for panoramic views, and sipping coffee in hidden courtyards. The parks are lush and blooming, and there are fewer tourists crowding the old town.

• Vrtba Garden is stunning in spring.
• Try trdelník (sweet pastry) from a street vendor.
• Sit along the Vltava River with a picnic and watch the city float by.

Prague’s beauty feels effortless in May, like the city is showing off just for you.

7. Girona, Spain

Girona was one of those unexpected loves. I went during Temps de Flors, the city’s annual flower festival, and every street, stairway, and stone wall was blooming. It felt like walking through a painting. I recognized some scenes from Game of Thrones, which made it even cooler.

• Flower installations take over the whole city.
• The Jewish Quarter is steeped in history.
• Easy day trip from Barcelona, but deserves a stay.

Girona in May is color, culture, and calm all rolled into one.

Perfect For: Nature & Landscape Enthusiasts

If wide open spaces, dramatic coastlines, and scenic drives make your heart beat faster, these are the places that had me stopping every few minutes just to take it all in.

8. Azores, Portugal

The Azores completely blew me away. I flew into São Miguel and was immediately greeted by emerald green hills, crater lakes, and hydrangeas blooming along the roadside. May is such a good time to go—the weather is mild, the islands are bursting with flowers, and you’re just ahead of the busy summer season.

• Don’t miss Sete Cidades, the twin crater lakes—one blue, one green.
• Whale watching is at its peak in May (I saw two sperm whales!).
• Hike the Salto do Prego trail to a hidden waterfall.

The Azores feel untouched, wild, and yet incredibly welcoming. It’s a must for any nature lover.

9. Norwegian Fjords, Norway

I’m not sure I’ve ever said “wow” so many times in one trip. The Norwegian fjords in May are still capped with snow up top, but the valleys below are green and alive. I took a scenic train from Oslo to Flåm and then cruised through Nærøyfjord, and it felt like stepping into a postcard.

• May is shoulder season: lower prices, fewer tourists.
• Cruise between towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
• Hike or bike the Rallarvegen trail for epic views.

It’s peaceful, powerful, and completely unforgettable.

10. Scottish Highlands, Scotland

The Highlands in May are pure magic. I rented a car and just drove—with no real plan. Everything was lush, the lochs sparkled in the sunlight, and the roads felt like they belonged in a movie. I passed castles, herds of sheep, and even caught the tail end of some blooming heather.

• Drive the North Coast 500—it’s one of the best road trips in the world.
• Stay in a cozy inn near Glencoe.
• Spot Highland cows and red deer in the wild.

May is when the Highlands stretch out and say, “Come see me before the midges arrive.”

Perfect For: Cool Cities & Spring Energy

If you love places that feel alive with culture, festivals, outdoor dining, and just the right amount of buzz, these cities are the perfect spring escape.

11. Berlin, Germany

Berlin in May is like one giant outdoor party. The parks are full of people grilling, the streets host spontaneous music performances, and the cafés spill out onto sidewalks. I visited during the Carnival of Cultures and danced in the streets with strangers—it was electric.

• Explore street art in Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain.
• Tempelhof Airport park is wild—you can picnic on an old runway.
• Beer gardens are open and buzzing.

Berlin is gritty, cool, full of soul, and in May, it’s especially alive.

12. Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon stole my heart the first time I visited in May. The city glows in golden light, and every corner feels like a film scene. I rode Tram 28 through the Alfama district, had fresh pastel de nata at every other café, and took day trips to Cascais and Sintra.

• Hike up to the São Jorge Castle for a sunset view.
• Explore Belém for history and pastries.
• So many miradouros (viewpoints) for relaxing breaks.

The hills may test your calves, but the views make it all worth it.

13. Amsterdam, Netherlands

May is tulip season’s last hurrah in the Netherlands, and Amsterdam still wears spring beautifully. I biked along canals lined with flowering trees, cruised the waterways at sunset, and explored museums without summer-level lines.

• Visit Keukenhof Gardens before it closes in mid-May.
• Enjoy open-air cafés along the Jordaan.
• Rent a bike—it’s the best way to see everything.

Amsterdam in May is like a soft daydream, full of charm and color.

Perfect For: Offbeat Gems & Hidden Spots

Looking for something different? These lesser-known cities gave me that feeling of discovering something not everyone has Instagrammed to death.

14. Kotor, Montenegro

Kotor is a quiet stunner in May. I stayed inside the old city walls and woke up to church bells echoing through narrow stone alleys. The bay looked like a fjord, with mountains sliding into glassy water. And the best part? It was peaceful—no cruise ship mobs yet.

• Climb the fortress stairs early for panoramic views.
• Dine along the bay at sunset—try black risotto.
• Day trip to Perast for even more charm.

Kotor feels like a secret, one I’m only half-willing to share.

15. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is one of those cities that just feels good. It’s small, colorful, and bursting with character. I spent most of my time strolling the riverfront, sipping iced coffee under flowering trees, and wandering the castle hill. Everyone bikes here, and the pace of life is beautifully slow.

• No cars in the city center = super walkable.
• Eat štruklji (Slovenian dumplings) at a riverside café.
• May has outdoor music events and lots of local energy.

It’s a city that makes you feel at home, even if you’ve never been before.

16. Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava doesn’t try too hard—and that’s exactly why I loved it. It’s casual, colorful, and filled with interesting spots like Blue Church and street art alleys. I walked up to the castle and looked out over the Danube while sipping coffee from a local roaster that doubled as a bike shop.

• Charming and affordable alternative to big capitals.
• Take a boat to Vienna just for the experience.
• Great for a 1–2 day getaway with zero stress.

It’s small, it’s sweet, and it has plenty of surprises up its sleeve.

FAQs About Visiting Europe in May

1. Is May a good time to travel to Europe in 2025?

Yes, May is one of the best months to visit Europe. You get warm, pleasant weather without the overwhelming summer crowds. Flowers are blooming, many local festivals begin, and flight and hotel prices are generally more affordable than in peak summer. It’s the perfect shoulder season for both city breaks and nature escapes.

2. What are the warmest places in Europe to visit in May?

Some of the warmest places to visit in Europe in May include Cyprus, Crete, Sardinia, Rhodes, and Southern Spain. Temperatures in these regions often reach 25–27°C (77–81°F), making them ideal for early beach vacations and sunny getaways.

3. Are European tourist attractions open in May?

Yes, most tourist attractions across Europe are fully open in May. In fact, it’s a great time to explore landmarks, castles, and museums without long summer lines. Seasonal outdoor activities like hiking, boat tours, and garden visits are also available and far more enjoyable in spring weather.

4. What should I pack for a trip to Europe in May 2025?

Pack light layers like T-shirts, a warm sweater or jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and a small umbrella or rain jacket (especially for northern or coastal areas). If you’re heading south (like Greece or Portugal), don’t forget sunscreen and a swimsuit—the sun can be surprisingly strong even in May.

5. What are some budget-friendly European destinations in May?

If you’re traveling on a budget in May 2025, consider destinations like Bratislava, Ljubljana, Kotor, and parts of Portugal like the Azores. These spots offer incredible scenery and experiences at much lower prices compared to more tourist-heavy places like Paris or Rome.

Conclusion

May has a kind of magic in Europe that’s hard to describe until you’ve felt it for yourself. The cities are alive but not chaotic, the landscapes are green and blooming, and the air feels full of possibility. Traveling this time of year means you get to experience places at their best—without the lines, the heatwaves, or the sky-high prices of peak summer.

Each destination I shared holds a special memory for me, whether it was sipping coffee in a quiet Slovakian square or standing at the edge of a cliff in the Scottish Highlands with nothing but silence and sky. May is for slow mornings, long golden evenings, and discovering places that maybe weren’t even on your list to begin with.

If you’re planning a trip to Europe in 2025, don’t wait for summer—this is the month where everything comes alive in the most beautiful, balanced way.