May is one of the best times of the year to travel, the weather is warming up in many parts of the world, flowers are in full bloom, and the summer crowds haven’t quite arrived. If you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or laid-back coastal escapes, May offers a sweet spot for travel lovers.

Here are 10 of the best destinations to visit in May, each offering its own unique charm, pleasant weather, and unforgettable spring experiences.

May is when Hokkaido comes into its own, offering a breath of fresh air after the hustle of Tokyo and Kyoto’s spring season. As cherry blossoms fade in the south, they bloom in full glory across Japan’s northern island, creating picture-perfect scenes in parks and countryside towns. The cool air adds to the charm, making walks and scenic drives even more enjoyable.

Head to Matsumae Park, where late-blooming sakura frame a historic castle in delicate pink. The fields of Biei and Furano burst into colour with wildflowers, while the region’s natural hot springs in Noboribetsu promise soothing soaks with mountain views. There’s an energy to Hokkaido in spring, peaceful yet exciting, wild yet refined.

In the coastal city of Hakodate, feast on fresh seafood straight from the market, or take in the sweeping night view from Mount Hakodate. From mountains to meadows, hot springs to harbours, Hokkaido in May is a stunning introduction to Japan’s untamed beauty.

Greece in May is an absolute delight, sun-drenched and full of life, yet without the full crowds of summer. The ancient wonders of Athens feel even more powerful under clear skies and cooler temperatures, giving you the perfect excuse to wander ruins at your own pace and sip iced coffee on rooftop terraces.

After exploring the Acropolis, hop over to the Cyclades, where Santorini, Paros, and Naxos offer a dreamy escape of whitewashed villages, sandy beaches, and unforgettable sunsets. Ferries are running, the water’s warming up, and tavernas are reopening for long, lazy lunches by the sea.

From clifftop churches to hidden swimming coves, the Greek islands feel both timeless and vibrant in May. Each moment feels cinematic, like you've stepped into a postcard of sun, stone, and sea.

May in Morocco is a celebration of colour, culture, and contrast. In Marrakech, the ancient medina buzzes with life as spices scent the air, souks shimmer with textiles and lanterns, and riads provide serene escapes from the vibrant streets. It’s a feast for all the senses.

Cool evenings make rooftop dining in the city magical, while warm days are perfect for day trips into the Atlas Mountains. There, the landscape transforms from red rock to green valley, with villages clinging to hillsides and trails leading to hidden waterfalls and scenic viewpoints.

Venture further to discover Chefchaouen, the famed blue town nestled in the Rif Mountains, or experience an unforgettable night in the Sahara, complete with a camel trek and star-filled skies. Morocco in May feels like stepping into a storybook with a twist of adventure.

Rolling hills, golden light, and vineyards in bloom, Tuscany in May is pure poetry. The countryside is lush and alive, while the cities and towns are humming with a warm, relaxed energy. This is the time to explore Italy slowly, one piazza and glass of wine at a time.

Start in Florence, where art, architecture, and gelato await around every corner. Then, wind your way through the Chianti wine region, stopping for tastings in centuries-old cellars and vineyard picnics with panoramic views. The weather is just right for scenic drives through Val d’Orcia, with its cypress-lined lanes and sunflower-filled fields.

Hilltop villages like San Gimignano and Montepulciano come to life in spring, offering breathtaking views and mouthwatering Tuscan cuisine. Tuscany in May is all about long lunches, slow strolls, and soaking in la dolce vita.

Peru’s dry season kicks off in May, bringing clear blue skies and spectacular hiking conditions without the summer rush. Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, is a charming blend of history and culture, where cobbled streets meet vibrant plazas and hidden cafés.

From Cusco, journey into the Sacred Valley, where ancient ruins, terraced fields, and colourful markets await. Explore the dramatic salt pans of Maras, visit the traditional town of Pisac, and marvel at the engineering genius of Ollantaytambo.

The crown jewel, of course, is Machu Picchu, and in May, the weather is ideal for trekking the Inca Trail or taking the train to this iconic wonder. With fewer visitors and jaw-dropping views, Peru in May delivers an unforgettable highland adventure.

Portugal in May hits the sweet spot for sunshine and serenity. In Lisbon, colourful streets come alive with tram bells, pastel façades, and alfresco cafés buzzing with conversation. The city is vibrant yet easy-going, perfect for long walks, photo stops, and food discoveries.

Up north, the Douro Valley unravels in sweeping green hills and glimmering river bends, home to some of Europe’s most scenic wine routes. Vineyards spill down terraced slopes, and charming quintas open their doors for tastings and lazy lunches with a view.

May brings bloom and warmth, but still keeps things tranquil. From sunset at Cabo da Roca to custard tarts in Belém, Portugal wraps you in charm and leaves you hungry for more.

Jeju Island in May is an island paradise bursting with life and colour. Known as the "Hawaii of Korea", this volcanic island offers a breathtaking blend of mountains, beaches, waterfalls, and flower fields that hit their peak during the month.

Hike to the top of Hallasan, South Korea’s tallest mountain, and take in panoramic views of the island surrounded by sea. Along the southern coast, the town of Seogwipo offers serene walks to hidden waterfalls like Cheonjiyeon and Jeongbang, with sea breezes and chirping birds along the way.

Don’t miss the sprawling canola flower fields, lava tube caves, and seaside cafés serving up fresh tangerine juice. With mild weather and vivid landscapes, Jeju in May feels like a breath of fresh, flower-scented air.

May marks the moment Iceland stretches into spring and its dramatic landscapes truly come alive. Snow begins to melt, waterfalls roar with power, and the land transforms into a lush wonderland of green moss, wildflowers, and glacial rivers.

Explore the famous Golden Circle, where geysers, waterfalls, and volcanic craters fill your camera roll and your soul. Puffins return to the cliffs, and roads that were snowbound in winter begin to open for epic road trips along the South Coast.

Take a dip in a geothermal spa like the Blue Lagoon, hike through lava fields, or watch midnight sunsets that stretch out across the horizon. Iceland in May offers all the beauty with more daylight and fewer fellow explorers.

Andalusia in May is a riot of colour, music, and sunshine. The air is scented with orange blossoms, the streets are alive with flamenco, and the mood is one of celebration. This is festival season, and every corner of southern Spain feels ready to party.

In Granada, the Alhambra glows in the golden light, its fountains and palaces framed by blooming gardens. In Córdoba, the patios are bursting with flowers during the Festival de los Patios, when private courtyards open to the public in a burst of colour and creativity.

Seville dances to the rhythm of flamenco and serves up some of the best tapas in Spain. With long days, warm evenings, and a deep cultural soul, Andalusia in May is unforgettable.

America’s desert southwest delivers jaw-dropping beauty in May, with clear skies, striking rock formations, and just the right amount of warmth. The national parks of Utah and Arizona showcase nature at its most epic, all with plenty of space and adventure.

In Zion and Bryce Canyon, red cliffs and hoodoos glow under the spring sun. Hike winding trails, wade through slot canyons, and sleep under starry skies in some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes. Fewer visitors and mild temperatures make for ideal exploring.

Further south, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley offer surreal photo ops and deep Navajo heritage. Cap it off with a sunset over the Grand Canyon, where golden light spills across ancient stone. This is road trip heaven, and May is the perfect time to go.

May is one of the best months to explore new destinations, offering springtime charm, pleasant weather, and fewer tourist crowds. Once you’ve picked your ideal spot from our top May travel recommendations, it’s time to make the most of the savings on offer. Thanks to the Traveloka EPIC Sale, you can book your spring adventure at unbeatable value, no matter you’re chasing cherry blossoms in Japan or relaxing on a sunny island.

From 11 April to 5 May 2025, Traveloka is rolling out massive deals with up to 60% OFF across flights, hotels, activities, and attractions. Don’t miss EPIC HOUR, where daily flash sales run from 7 PM to 9 PM, with bonus slots between 12 PM and 2 PM on 18–21 April and 30 April–5 May. Expect up to 50% OFF international flights, 4- to 5-star hotel stays starting at RM100 per night, and even Buy 1 Get 1 Free offers on exciting experiences, all exclusively on the Traveloka app and website.

Don't miss the Crazy Flight 5.5 Sale (Flight Flat Price), available from 1–5 May, where you can grab unbeatable flat rates on selected flight routes for a limited time only.

Plus, you can unlock even more value by completing simple in-app missions to earn free Traveloka Points, which can be used towards future bookings. So, No matter you’re planning a romantic escape, a solo adventure, or a family spring break, make it happen for less.