May is one of the best months of the year to travel. Spring is in full bloom in many regions, summer crowds have not fully arrived, and weather conditions are comfortable across much of the world. From cities buzzing with festivals to scenic landscapes and island escapes, the best places to visit in May offer a balance of great weather, fewer crowds, and memorable experiences.

Whether you’re looking for cool places to go in May, relaxing beaches, or cultural adventures, this list covers destinations to visit in May across continents. You’ll also find picks for the best places to visit in May for couples, plus tips on staying connected with an international eSIM while you travel.

1. Paris, France 🇫🇷

Paris is consistently ranked among the best places to travel in May. Spring flowers line the Seine, café terraces fill up, and the city hosts cultural events like La Nuit des Musées and jazz festivals. Mild weather and fewer tourists make Paris one of the best places to visit in Europe in May, especially for romantic strolls and picnics. It’s also one of the best places to visit in May for couples seeking a classic European escape.

2. Santorini, Greece 🇬🇷

Santorini shines in May before peak summer crowds arrive. Comfortable temperatures, open wineries, and quieter streets make it one of the great places to go in May. With caldera sunsets and cliffside villages, it’s easily one of the best places to visit in May for couples and a highlight among the best places to visit in Europe in May.

Traveling a little earlier? These best places to travel in April highlight great shoulder-season destinations with fewer crowds.

3. Bali, Indonesia 🇮🇩

May marks the start of Bali’s dry season, making it one of the best places to travel in May for tropical weather without peak-season crowds. Beaches, temples, and rice terraces look their best, and it’s a favorite among travelers seeking destinations to visit in May that mix culture and relaxation.

4. Hokkaido, Japan 🇯🇵

If you want cool places to go in May, Hokkaido is perfect. Cherry blossoms bloom later here, parks are colorful, and temperatures are refreshing. Festivals like the Canola Flower Festival add local flavor, making it one of the more unique destinations to visit in May.

5. Great Smoky Mountains, USA 🇺🇸

This national park is one of the best places to visit in May in the USA for nature lovers. Wildflowers bloom, hiking conditions are ideal, and late May brings the famous synchronous fireflies. It’s a peaceful, scenic option for travelers looking for fresh air and natural beauty.

6. Memphis, USA 🇺🇸

Thanks to the iconic Memphis in May festival, this city earns its place among the best places to visit in May in the USA. Expect live music, barbecue competitions, and warm but manageable temperatures. It’s one of the more cool places to go in May if you enjoy food and festivals.

If you’re planning a spring itinerary, our guide to the best places to visit in April in the USA is perfect for cherry blossoms, festivals, and mild weather.

7. Nepal 🇳🇵

Nepal is among the best countries to travel in May for trekking and cultural experiences. Clear mountain views, blooming rhododendrons, and festivals like Buddha Jayanti make it one of the most rewarding destinations to visit in May for adventurous travelers.

8. Scottish Highlands, UK 🏴

With longer daylight hours and greener landscapes, the Highlands become one of the most scenic cool places to go in May. Fewer tourists, mild temperatures, and dramatic views make it one of the quieter and best places to visit in Europe in May.

9. West Coast, Australia 🇦🇺

Western Australia is one of the best places to travel in May in the Southern Hemisphere. Whale sharks arrive at Ningaloo Reef, wildflowers begin blooming, and temperatures are comfortable. It’s a standout among destinations to visit in May for nature lovers.

10. South Africa 🇿🇦

May is safari season, making South Africa one of the best countries to travel in May. Wildlife viewing improves as vegetation thins, and Cape Town enjoys clear skies. It’s a top pick for travelers seeking diverse experiences in one trip.

11. Barbados 🇧🇧

Barbados remains one of the great places to go in May for beach lovers. It’s the end of the dry season, offering sunshine, warm waters, and fewer crowds. For Caribbean escapes, it ranks high among the best places to visit in May.

12. Peru 🇵🇪

May signals the start of the dry season in Peru, making it one of the best places to travel in May for Machu Picchu and Andean trekking. Clear skies and lighter crowds make it one of the most rewarding destinations to visit in May.

13. Maldives 🇲🇻

Early May offers better value on luxury resorts, making the Maldives one of the best places to visit in May for couples. Calm waters, snorkeling, and private villas make it one of the most romantic great places to go in May.

14. South Korea 🇰🇷

With festivals like Buddha’s Birthday and lush spring landscapes, South Korea is one of the best countries to travel to in May. Comfortable temperatures and cultural events make it one of the most engaging destinations to visit in May.

For early spring ideas, explore the best places to visit in March, when many regions start warming up.

15. Italy 🇮🇹

Italy in May delivers sunshine, fewer crowds, and a blooming countryside. From Rome to Tuscany, it’s consistently ranked among the best places to visit in Europe in May and remains one of the best places to visit in May for couples.

Travel Tips for May 2026

✅ Plan for festivals

Many of the best places to visit in May host major events. Book accommodation early if you’re traveling during festivals.

✅ Pack layers

The weather varies across regions, especially in the best places to visit in Europe in May or mountainous destinations.

Stay connected with an international eSIM

When your May trip includes multiple countries or long travel days, staying connected should be the easy part. That’s where a Jetpac eSIM for international travel makes a real difference. Instead of swapping physical SIM cards or relying on spotty Wi-Fi, an international eSIM lets you activate mobile data digitally and get online the moment you land.

If you’re looking for the best eSIM for international travel, Jetpac is designed specifically for travelers who want simplicity, reliability, and no surprises.

Setting up an international eSIM like Jetpac takes just a few minutes. Buy online, scan a QR code, and you’re ready to go. For travelers moving through several of the best places to visit in May, having the best eSIM for international travel means one less thing to worry about, so you can focus on the trip itself.

FAQs

What are the best places to visit in May?

Some of the best places to visit in May include Paris, Italy, Japan, Peru, South Africa, and parts of the USA. May offers mild weather, spring scenery, and fewer crowds in many destinations.

Which are the best places to travel in May for good weather?

The best places to travel in May for comfortable weather include Southern Europe, Japan, Nepal, South Africa, and coastal destinations like Barbados and Bali.

Are there cool places to go in May?

Yes, there are many cool places to go in May, such as the Scottish Highlands, Hokkaido in Japan, the Great Smoky Mountains, and mountain regions in Peru and Nepal.

What are the best countries to travel to in May?

Some of the best countries to visit in May include Italy, Japan, South Africa, Peru, and South Korea. These destinations combine good weather with cultural events and outdoor activities.

What are the best places to visit in May for couples?

The best places to visit in May for couples include Paris, Santorini, the Maldives, Italy, and Barbados. These destinations offer romantic settings, pleasant weather, and fewer peak-season crowds.

Do I need an eSIM for international travel in May?

If you’re visiting multiple countries, using an eSIM for international travel is highly convenient. An international eSIM helps you stay connected without roaming fees, and choosing the best eSIM for international travel ensures reliable data for maps, bookings, and communication.

Disclaimer

This blog is for informational and educational purposes only. Travel conditions, prices, events, visa rules, and connectivity services may change. Always verify current information before booking. Jetpac is not responsible for network coverage, speed, availability, or service interruptions in any destination.