May’s the best time to pack a bag and see the world, with sunny skies and fun festivals popping up everywhere. May’s sunny vibe makes countries to visit in May perfect, from Europe’s charming stone-walled towns to Asia’s vibrant, bustling markets. There’s hardly any crowd, so you can relax on beaches, explore ancient ruins, or join local parties. Think of munching fresh olives in Greece, strolling through Japan’s pink flower trails, or sipping tea in Morocco’s lively stalls. Every place has its own vibe, with great food, awesome sights, and fun stories. This list of 15 spots shows the top places to go, each ready to make a trip packed with happy moments under May’s shiny sun.
Top 15 Countries to Visit in May
May brings perfect travel weather, with sunny days and lively festivals around the world. From Europe’s old towns to Asia’s colourful markets, countries to visit in May have mild climates and fewer tourists. These places offer a mix of history, nature, and culture for a memorable trip.
1. Italy
Rome’s ancient stones glow in May’s warm light, inviting travellers to explore history. Florence’s busy markets spill with crafts, while the Amalfi Coast offers calm beaches and tasty pasta by the sea. Flower festivals like Infiorata cover streets in bright petals and music. With gentle days and cool nights, Italy is a top pick among countries to visit in May. People can wander vineyards, enjoy gelato in sunny squares, or soak up art and old-world charm, making it a great spot for anyone who loves food and stories from the past.
- Highlights: Colosseum, Amalfi Coast, flower festivals
- Approximate Cost: Museum entries around ₹1,500
Suggested Read - Unveil the Best Places to Visit in Italy
2. Japan
Kyoto’s quiet temples stand peaceful in May, framed by soft spring green, making it one of the best places to visit in May in the world. Hokkaido’s cherry blossoms linger, and Tokyo’s Sanja Matsuri brings street parades with hot yakitori stalls. Nikko’s trails call hikers with fresh air and mountain views. Fewer visitors give Japan a calm, lively feel. Travellers can bike through small villages, try tea ceremonies, or walk gardens, diving into a culture that blends old ways with nature’s beauty for a relaxing yet exciting trip.
- Highlights: Cherry blossoms, Sanja Matsuri, Kyoto temples
- Approximate Cost: Temple visits around ₹500
Suggested Read - 10 Beautiful Places In Japan That Are Sure To Make You Fall In Love
3. Greece
Santorini’s white houses shine by the sea in May, offering a quiet escape from summer crowds. Athens’ Acropolis looks grand under blue skies, and Crete’s small eateries serve fresh olives and wine. Easter processions, often in May, light up villages with candles. Warm weather suits beach days or hill walks. Greece is high on the list of countries to visit in May, mixing old ruins with island beauty. Visitors can sail to islands, explore historic sites, or sip coffee by the water, creating special moments in a land full of sun and ancient charm.
- Highlights: Acropolis, Santorini, Easter celebrations
- Approximate Cost: Site entries around ₹2,000
Suggested Read - 10 Best Places to Visit in Greece
4. Morocco
Marrakech’s markets buzz with spices and rugs in May, pulling travellers into a lively scene. Fez’s old streets show off tiled fountains, while the Sahara offers cool nights for camel rides under the stars. Essaouira’s coast has fresh fish and breezy walks. Rose festivals in the Dadès Valley add music and colour. For anyone asking which country is best to visit in May, Morocco’s mix of culture and spring warmth stands out. People can shop for crafts, drink mint tea, or roam desert paths, feeling the energy of a place alive with history and kind welcomes.
- Highlights: Sahara Desert, Marrakech souks, rose festivals
- Approximate Cost: Guided tours around ₹3,000
5. Portugal
Lisbon’s sunny hills come alive in May, with trams winding through bright streets. Porto’s riverside cafes offer wine and pastries, and the Algarve’s beaches offer peaceful spots for walks. Sintra’s palaces look magical with spring flowers. Coimbra’s student festivals bring happy parades. Portugal is a great choice among countries to visit in May from India, with cheap flights and friendly vibes. Travellers can visit old castles, eat sweet tarts, or stroll markets, enjoying an affordable trip where warm weather and rich culture make every day feel like a small celebration.
- Highlights: Lisbon trams, Sintra palaces, Algarve beaches
- Approximate Cost: Palace entries around ₹1,200
Suggested Read - Top Places to Visit in Portugal: Discover Hidden Gems & Icons
6. New Zealand
Queenstown’s mountains turn golden in May’s cool autumn air, perfect for outdoor fun. Wellington’s warm cafes serve hot drinks, and Rotorua’s hot springs pair with Maori shows for a cultural touch. Milford Sound’s fjords shine in soft light, great for boat trips. With fewer people, New Zealand feels open and calm. It’s a top spot among countries to visit in May, offering big views and local warmth. Travellers can hike paths, see glowworm caves, or watch stars, finding beauty in a land where nature and friendly faces create a special kind of holiday.
- Highlights: Queenstown hikes, Milford Sound, Maori culture
- Approximate Cost: Cruises around ₹8,000
7. Spain
Seville’s streets dance with flamenco in May’s sunny fairs, a joyful sight for visitors. Barcelona’s quirky buildings glow, and Granada’s Alhambra gardens bloom with roses. Coastal spots serve fresh paella by the sea. Nice weather makes plaza walks or sangria sipping a treat. Spain answers, where is best to travel to in May, full of lively culture and old charm? Travellers can join street parties, roam narrow lanes, or try tapas, soaking in a happy vibe. The mix of sun and history makes Spain a fun place for anyone looking for food and festivities.
- Highlights: Alhambra, Seville fairs, Barcelona architecture
- Approximate Cost: Site entries around ₹1,500
Suggested Read: Top 20 Places to Visit in Spain
8. Vietnam
Hoi An’s lanterns light up May’s warm evenings, creating a fairy-tale feel for budget travellers. Hanoi’s busy corners offer tasty noodle bowls, and Halong Bay’s green waters are perfect for boat rides. The Mekong Delta’s markets burst with fruit, and Buddha’s Birthday fills temples with glowing lights. Vietnam is one of the best countries to visit in May from India, with inexpensive food and fewer crowds. People can ride bikes through rice fields, drink strong coffee, or shop in lively bazaars, enjoying a culture that’s both exciting and calm, making every day a bright, affordable adventure.
- Highlights: Halong Bay, Hoi An lanterns, Mekong Delta
- Approximate Cost: Boat tours around ₹2,500
Suggested Read - Get To Know The Best Places To Visit In Vietnam
9. Iceland
Reykjavik’s lively cafes hum in May’s long days, while huge waterfalls crash along the Golden Circle. The Blue Lagoon gives warm dips in rocky pools, and puffins settle on cliffs, exciting bird lovers. Purple lupine flowers start to bloom across fields. Iceland is a unique pick among countries to visit in May, with wild lands and small towns. Travellers can hike icy slopes, relax in hot springs, or listen to local music, feeling the buzz of a place where spring’s energy and big nature make every moment a thrilling, peaceful escape.
- Highlights: Blue Lagoon, Golden Circle, puffin colonies
- Approximate Cost: Lagoon entry around ₹7,000
Suggested Read: 15 Best Places To See In Iceland
10. Peru
Machu Picchu’s old stones stand tall in May’s clear mountain air, a must-see for history fans. Cusco’s markets sell bright textiles, and Lake Titicaca’s floating islands share local stories. Lima’s seaside spots dish up spicy ceviche. With dry skies, Peru feels alive yet quiet. It’s a favourite among countries to visit in May for those who love old tales and nature. Travellers can walk Incan trails, buy handmade crafts, or visit old towns, discovering a land where every step shows off ancient wonders and stunning views that spark awe.
- Highlights: Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, Cusco markets
- Approximate Cost: Machu Picchu entry around ₹4,000
11. Croatia
Dubrovnik’s old walls hug the sea in May’s warm light, free from summer bustle. Split’s ancient palace buzzes with cafes, and Hvar’s beaches offer calm waves and sweet lavender smells. Plitvice Lakes’ waterfalls flow through green woods, great for walks. Croatia is a gem among countries to visit in May, mixing history with seaside beauty. Travellers can sail to islands, wander stone streets, or eat fresh seafood, enjoying a sunny escape. The gentle weather and relaxed feel make every day a mix of culture and nature that’s easy to love.
- Highlights: Dubrovnik walls, Plitvice Lakes, Hvar island
- Approximate Cost: Park entries around ₹2,500
12. Thailand
Phuket’s soft sands welcome visitors in May’s warm glow, before the rainy season starts. Bangkok’s temples shine gold, and Chiang Mai’s night markets overflow with crafts and mango treats. Visakha Bucha lights temples with candles. With fewer people, Thailand feels friendly and open. It’s a top choice among countries to visit in May for sun and culture lovers. Travellers can explore jungles, rest on beaches, or visit temples, diving into a land of spicy food and warm smiles, where every moment is a cheap, happy adventure full of colour and life.
- Highlights: Bangkok temples, Phuket beaches, Chiang Mai markets
- Approximate Cost: Temple entries around ₹500
Suggested Read - Top Places To Visit In Thailand: Best Spots For Your Vacation
13. South Africa
Cape Town’s big mountain stands proud in May’s cool, clear air, a great view for explorers. Kruger National Park’s animals roam free, perfect for safaris. Stellenbosch’s vineyards give tasty wines, and Durban’s beaches offer warm swims and spicy food. Bright wildflowers pop up everywhere. South Africa is a winner among countries to visit in May, blending wild fun with pretty sights. Travellers can spot lions, walk by the sea, or eat local dishes, making memories in a place where big nature and lively culture come together for a thrilling trip.
- Highlights: Kruger safaris, Table Mountain, Stellenbosch wines
- Approximate Cost: Safari tours around ₹5,000
Suggested Read - From Cape Town To Kruger: Best Places To Visit in South Africa
14. Turkey
Istanbul’s busy markets burst with colour in May, full of spices and soft silks. Cappadocia’s valleys glow under balloon-filled skies, and Antalya’s beaches have clear water and grilled kebabs. Ephesus’ old ruins tell stories in the sun. Tulip festivals add bright park colours. Turkey is a fun pick among countries to visit in May, mixing old East and West with kind people. Travellers can shop for treasures, drink tea by the water, or visit historic spots, feeling the energy of a land where every corner holds a bit of magic and history.
- Highlights: Cappadocia balloons, Istanbul markets, Ephesus ruins
- Approximate Cost: Site entries around ₹1,000
Suggested Read - Amazing Places to Visit in Turkey
15. Norway
Bergen’s fish markets hum with life in May’s soft spring light, a great start for nature fans, making it one of the best countries to visit in May 2025. Oslo’s Viking museums share old tales, and Geirangerfjord’s cliffs amaze on boat rides. Lofoten’s islands offer hikes under long days. The midnight sun starts, giving extra evening light. Norway mixes wild beauty with cosy towns. Travellers can paddle fjords, roam green valleys, or eat fresh seafood, enjoying a calm Nordic spring where big views and outdoor fun make every moment special and unforgettable.
- Highlights: Geirangerfjord, Lofoten islands, Oslo museums
Approximate Cost: Fjord cruises around ₹6,000
Exploring countries to visit in May is like opening a box of surprises, with sunny beaches, old ruins, and lively festivals waiting. Each place, from Italy’s tasty pasta to Thailand’s bright markets, brings its own magic. May’s perfect weather and fewer crowds make every trip feel special, whether wandering Japan’s flower paths or sipping tea in Morocco. These 15 spots offer fun, food, and stories that stick in the heart. So, grab a map, pick a place, and dive into a holiday full of colour and joy. May’s the time to make memories that shine as bright as the spring sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where is best to travel to in May?
Italy’s a top pick for May, with sunny skies and cool evenings. Rome’s old ruins and Florence’s lively markets are super fun to explore, plus the Amalfi Coast has yummy food by the sea. It’s got history, beaches, and festivals all in one!
2. Which country has the best weather in May?
Greece shines with warm days and clear skies in May. Santorini’s beaches and Athens’ ruins are perfect for sunny strolls, and the mild weather makes every moment comfy and bright.
3. Which country is best for a 7-day trip?
Portugal’s awesome for a week-long trip. Lisbon’s colourful streets, Porto’s riverside cafes, and Sintra’s fairy-tale palaces pack a lot into seven days, with cheap flights and friendly vibes.
4. Which country is great for food lovers in May?
Thailand’s markets burst with spicy noodles and sweet mango treats in May. From Bangkok’s street stalls to Chiang Mai’s food fairs, every bite’s a tasty adventure for food fans.
