Where to Go in May 2026 | Travel Blog

May offers many opportunities for outdoor activities, cultural tourism, and beach getaways in tropical destinations. It's the last month before peak summer tourism, offering lower prices and fewer crowds. Here are the best places to visit in May 2026 — explore things to do and the best experiences. 

Bali

Bali is a fantastic vacation spot, perfect for spiritual transformation, adventure, and a tranquil beach getaway. People from around the world come to see its colorful temples, green rice paddies, and vibrant seaside towns. If you’re wondering where to travel in May 2026, Bali offers a unique tropical getaway with serene yoga retreats in Ubud and vibrant nightlife in Seminyak.

Best Experiences: 

• Visit the Sacred Monkey Forest surrounded by rice terraces and lush forests around Ubud
• Head to the Uluwatu Temple for breathtaking sunsets
• Try the health and spa packages at the Seminyak beach clubs 

Maldives 

The Maldives are known for their beauty and tranquility — a fantastic island getaway with turquoise waters, beachfront villas, and rich coral reefs. It’s a popular honeymoon destination, also favored by families and scuba divers. May boasts warm water temperatures, abundant sunlight, and lower resort prices. Island resorts offer peaceful, upscale relaxation, making the Maldives one of the best places to visit in May 2026. 

Best Experiences: 

• Enjoy watersports, including snorkelling and scuba diving
• Experience dolphin or whale watching
• Take a cruise for island-hopping
• Book a romantic beachfront dinner for couples 

Santorini 

Santorini is among the most romantic travel destinations in the world, featuring spectacular caldera views, blue-domed, whitewashed houses, and rich cultural heritage. The island is full of charm, rich history, and delicious food. If you’re choosing where to travel in May, Santorini stands out for its excellent weather. Flowers are blooming, and tourist numbers are low compared to the summer high season, making it an ideal time for a trip. 

Best Experiences: 

• Watch a sunset at the Byzantine Castle of Agios Nikolaos or the Oia cliffside stairs 
• Book wine tasting tours and visit popular wineries
• Hike from Fira to Oia for scenic views and diverse landscapes

Hawaii

Hawaii offers a one-of-a-kind tropical paradise with excellent beaches, rainforests, and mountain ranges, making it the best place to travel in May 2026. Each island is unique, with Maui ideal for relaxation and the Big Island known for its diverse landscapes. Hawaii is a lovely beach getaway, featuring dozens of stunning beaches with soft sand and turquoise waters. 

Best Experiences: 

• Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for its volcanic landscapes and lush nature
• Enjoy water activities, including snorkeling, surfing, and diving
• Relax at Waikiki Beach, Kāʻanapali Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Makena Beach
• Go hiking along iconic trails, such as Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail, Mānoa Falls Trail, or Waiheʻe Ridge Trail

Costa Rica

Costa Rica in May offers ecotourism, beautiful jungles, diverse wildlife, and exciting outdoor activities. The destination is great for adventure, with zip lines, hiking trails, watersports, and stunning beaches. Costa Rica features lush greenery and warm, pleasant weather in the shoulder season. 

Best Experiences:

• Watch wildlife in national parks, including Manuel Antonio, Corcovado, and Tortuguero 
• Spice up your trip with a zip line in the jungles
• Enjoy surfing and swimming at Playa Conchal, Playa Samara, and Santa Teresa
• Take a guided tour to the hot springs and waterfalls

Cape Verde

Cape Verde is a perfect mix of the Portuguese, Brazilian, and African cultures. It features exquisite outdoor activities, with golden beaches, vibrant music, and volcanic landscapes. May is known for dry, hot weather and light rains. Whether you’re after an island trip or a beach getaway in May, Cape Verde is an excellent choice. 

Best Experiences:

• Explore the Santo Antão mountains on scenic trails like Cova Crater–Paúl Valley, Ponta do Sol to Cruzinha, and Ribeira Grande to Porto Novo
• Head to Sal Island for cerulean waters and soft sand
• Visit Cidade Velha, a historic city recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Sicily

The blend of Sicily's cuisine, culture, and history is fascinating. Italy’s largest island has wonderful beaches, a diverse urban community, and historic sites dating back to ancient times. It is one of the best places to visit in May for hot weather and fewer crowds. Sicily features coastal towns, beach hideouts, and cultural landmarks. 

Best Experiences: 

• Explore Palermo with its iconic landmarks, including Cattedrale di Palermo and Norman Palace
• Take a trip to the vineyards and book wine tasting tours
• Head to Taormina, the iconic setting of The White Lotus Season 2

Tokyo 

Tokyo is an exciting experience, blending ancient traditions with modern life. The city offers plenty of attractions, from neon-lit streets to ancient temples. The weather in May is very pleasant, making it a great time for city tours and evening strolls. Tokyo ranks among the best places to visit in May, offering travelers cultural sites, festivals, shops, and a taste of delicious Japanese cuisine. 

Best Experiences:

• Take a tour of Senso-ji Temple in the Asakusa district
• Head to Shibuya and Shinjuku districts for buzzing nightlife, shopping, and fashion
• Explore cafes and restaurants with authentic Japanese cuisine 
• Stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen Park and enjoy the blooming nature 

Croatia 

Croatia is a Mediterranean paradise with a stunning coastline, turquoise waters, and historic towns. It offers a standout combination of relaxation, wonderful nature, and cultural sites. The weather in Croatia in May is great for outdoor activities, with the average temperature of 21°C (70°F). 

Best Experiences: 

• Head to Dubrovnik for cultural landmarks, including the city walls, Stradun, and Rector's Palace 
• Visit Hvar for beachfront dining and panoramic hikes
• Admire the beauty of the historic Palace of Diocletian in Split 

Seychelles 

Seychelles is one of the top tropical getaways, featuring wild beaches, blue waters, and granite cliffs. Private resorts offer a peaceful escape in picturesque natural surroundings. The best month to visit Seychelles is May, when the waters are calm and warm, making it ideal for watersports and swimming. Choose Seychelles if you’re wondering where to go in May for sun and relaxation. 

Best Experiences:

• Visit L’Ilot Island for exceptional diving and snorkeling with rich marine life
• Take boat trips to Cocos Island or Felicite
• Enjoy swimming at one of the most photographed beaches, Anse Source d'Argent 
• Try Creole cuisine, including dishes like Shark Chutney, Rougaille, and Katkat Banann

Travel to the Best May Destinations with INFOBUS 

Our list of the best places to travel in May 2026 contains destinations from around the world. Planning a trip in May? INFOBUS has you covered. The service lets travelers compare and book flights, buses, and trains in one place. INFOBUS partners with Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Air France, Ryanair, American Airlines, and other companies. Browse tickets to over 37,000 destinations and book trips in just a few clicks. 

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FAQ

What is the best place to travel in May 2026?

Bali is one of the top travel destinations for May 2026, offering ideal weather, fewer tourists, cultural activities, accessible beaches, and adventurous experiences that suit both relaxation and exploration. 

Where to fly in May 2026?

You can travel to Santorini, Japan, the Maldives, or Seychelles. These locations offer pleasant weather, beautiful scenery, and lower prices before the peak summer season. 

What is the cheapest place to visit in May 2026?

Cape Verde and Bali are affordable in May, offering budget-friendly accommodations, meals, and outdoor activities. These destinations are much cheaper in May, during the shoulder season.

What are the best travel destinations in May?

Tokyo and Costa Rica are among the top travel destinations in May, offering exceptional weather, stunning natural landscapes, and a variety of things to do. 

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