Places to Visit in May

May is one of the most pleasant months all over the world. Winter has not hit the Southern Hemisphere, while the North enjoys spring.  The Mediterranean is warm enough to get in the water, and the flowers are in full bloom. Also, May is the perfect time to travel because the crowds are still smaller than the peak summer travel season. Whether you’re seeking the warm embrace of spring or the last remnants of autumn, there’s a destination for everyone. Here are some fantastic places to consider for your May travels.

Looking for something truly exotic?  Japan and Tahiti won’t disappoint.  Closer to home, there are some unbeatable resort and cruise offers to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii Vacation Package.

Japan

Dive into the heart of tradition and innovation in Japan. May welcomes you with pleasant weather, making it an ideal time to explore the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Experience the juxtaposition of ancient temples against futuristic cityscapes, and don’t miss the chance to indulge in authentic Japanese cuisine.

Tahiti

Indulge in a tranquil escape to paradise. Tahiti, with its crystal-clear waters and gentle swaying palm trees, offers a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In May, the weather is just right for exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life or simply unwinding on pristine white-sand beaches.

New Zealand

May heralds the arrival of autumn in New Zealand, painting the landscapes in vibrant hues of red and gold. Explore the stunning fjords of Milford Sound, hike through the otherworldly landscapes of Tongariro National Park, or indulge in world-class wine tasting in the Marlborough region.

Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii

Closer to home, the allure of the Caribbean, Mexico, and Hawaii awaits. Take advantage of unbeatable resort and cruise offers, immersing yourself in the rich cultures and natural beauty of these tropical paradises. From snorkeling in turquoise waters to exploring ancient ruins, there’s something for every traveler.

Mediterranean

Set sail on a Mediterranean adventure in May, when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. This is the perfect time to fully appreciate iconic cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Athens without the summer heat and tourist rush. Indulge in delicious regional cuisine, wander through charming villages, and marvel at ancient landmarks. There are some fantastic deals on Mediterranean cruises in May. 

Europe

If picturesque scenery and charming villages are your cup of tea, Europe awaits with open arms. From the colorful tulip fields of Holland to the verdant gardens of England, May offers a kaleidoscope of natural beauty. Explore historic landmarks, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of European culture.

It’s a great time to travel because the weather is cooler and famous cities like Barcelona, Rome and Athens are less crowded, so you will get more out of your visit. So soak up the festive spirit of Europe and enjoy wildflowers blooming.  If you have a passion for picturesque scenery, amazing architecture, delicious regional cuisine, fantastic local shopping, or simply exploring new and exciting destinations, Europe is the perfect vacation experience. Tauck Italy and France Vacations are booking up fast.

If you enjoy flowers, you will find lovely gardens in England and the Cotswolds, Hampshire, Sussex and Kent.  Perhaps take a river cruise or tour of Holland.

Speaking of river cruises, this is another wonderful choice for May.  River cruises offer the convenience and luxury of an ocean cruise combined with the in-depth land tour experience, plus the personal freedom unique to a river cruise. Step aboard. Unpack once. Explore, and enjoy.  For many travelers, a journey along the river is just the right pace for getting the lay of the land. Sitting on the top deck of a ship under brilliant blue skies, you gaze on fabled landscapes dotted with castles, villages, and vineyards. A flight of stairs down, and you have all the amenities of a modern hotel — restaurants, bars, lounges, fitness facilities, spas, internet access, and comfortable staterooms. Consider a cruise along the Moselle River, where you can enjoy Paris along with picturesque medieval castles, quaint hillside towns and wineries.  You can also cruise along the Seine River from Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches.

Want to stay closer to home?   The United States is filled with many beautiful National parks that come to life in the spring. See nature bursting with life on a national parks tour.  Guided walks offer the perfect opportunity for wildlife spotting. In addition, national parks are ideal places for river rafting, horseback riding, and hiking for the adventurous spirit. U.S. National Parks Waive Entrance Fees and Tips For Visiting the U.S. National Parks

National Parks of the United States

For nature enthusiasts, May is the perfect time to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the United States’ national parks. From the otherworldly rock formations of Arches National Park to the majestic waterfalls of Yosemite, there’s no shortage of natural wonders to discover. Embark on guided hikes, spot wildlife in their natural habitats, and marvel at Mother Nature’s beauty.

Arches – Moab, UT – Over 2,000 natural sandstone arches and rock formations. Best seen in April and May.

Yellowstone – Yellowstone, WY – visit the famous geysers and hot springs

Yosemite – Yosemite, CA – exceptional beauty best seen in the late spring

Zion – Springdale, UT – towering cliffs and small narrow canyons – amazing plant life can be seen

Alaska

May marks the beginning of the Alaska cruise season, offering a unique opportunity to explore this pristine wilderness. Cruise past towering glaciers spot majestic wildlife, and marvel at the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights. With mild weather and extended daylight hours, May is the perfect time to embark on an unforgettable Alaskan adventure. The Alaska Cruise season starts in May, and the weather is mild, so it is the perfect time for an Alaska cruise for a unique outdoor adventure. For a more unexplored region, shows like the Frozen Planet on the Discovery Channel have brought a lot of interest in travel to the Arctic.  May offers an optimal amount of daylight and clear skies to see the Northern Lights and spot polar bears and seals as the arctic snow begins to melt.  Celebrity Cruises offers cruises in May that cruise the Arctic Circle. G Adventures offers an 8-day trip called Realm of the Polar Bears for a close-up encounter with icebergs, glaciers, and the region’s plentiful wildlife.

Arctic Expeditions

Embark on a thrilling adventure off the beaten path. The Arctic, with its rugged beauty and pristine wilderness, offers a unique and exhilarating experience. In May, with clear skies and optimal daylight, you can spot polar bears, seals, and other Arctic wildlife as you cruise through icy fjords and towering icebergs, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Panama and Peru

Experience the allure of Panama and Peru, two of the hottest travel destinations for May. Explore Panama’s lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and towering mountains, or embark on a cruise through the iconic Panama Canal. In Peru, immerse yourself in ancient history as you explore the ruins of Machu Picchu or trek through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. With its spectacular scenery, interesting history, and recent economic boom, Panama and Peru are on the list of hottest travel destinations for many reasons. Panama has two oceans, 500 rivers, lush rainforests, and mountains, offering breathtaking scenery and adventure. There is no shortage of beaches in Panama, bordered by the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Aside from the Amazon basin, Panama boasts the largest rainforest in the Western Hemisphere. Panama’s most prominent landform is its mountain chain, stretching down the country’s center, forming the continental divide. These features and its tropical climate make Panama a paradise for nature lovers. Tauck Tours offers an amazing Panama Canal and Costa Rica Westbound cruise.

Colombia

May marks the beginning of Colombia’s dry season, offering sunny days and mild temperatures. Explore the colorful streets of Cartagena’s Old Town, trek to the Lost City of Teyuna in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, or relax on the pristine beaches of the Caribbean coast.

With an array of enticing destinations to choose from, May is the perfect time to embark on your next adventure. Whether you’re craving cultural immersion, natural beauty, or adrenaline-fueled activities, there’s a destination waiting to fulfill your wanderlust. So pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!

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