For tourists, May is an excellent month to travel outside India. As spring transitions into early summer, many destinations experience mild temperatures. It offers blooming landscapes and extended daylight hours. Whether seeking a beach vacation, or a nation retreat, May offers diverse opportunities for memorable travel experience abroad. The blog covers the best places to visit in May outside India.
Deciding best countries to visit in May
When deciding the best countries to travel in May, it is important to consider some factors to ensure an enjoyable trip. These are:
- Weather: Choose destinations where May fall within the dry season. This will minimise the risk of rain and ensure sunny days.
- Festivals and events: Look for countries hosting significant cultural, music or food festivals in May.
- National holidays: Be aware of national holidays. It can either enhance your trip through celebrations or pose challenges with closed attractions.
- Activities: For beach lovers, May is an excellent time to visit coastal areas before peak summer crowds arrive.
- Shoulder season: May is the shoulder season in many destinations. It means travel costs can be lower as compared to peak summer months.
Best countries to visit in May outside India
Thailand
Thailand is an excellent country to visit in May. It offers beautiful views of landscapes and tropical beaches to its tourists. In May, there are fewer crowds and more affordable prices. Tourists can enjoy pleasant weather, especially in the early part of the month. The country’s vibrant cities showcase bustling markets, and a lively street food scene. On the other hand, the north provides serene mountain landscapes and a rich cultural heritage.
Top places to visit:
- Grand Palace and Wat Arun in Bangkok
- Wat Phra Singh in Chiang Mai
- Thailand’s largest Island, Phuket, which is renowned for its beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife
Things to do:
- Experience Thai New Year (Songkran Festival)
- Go scuba diving or snorkelling
- Try Thai cooking classes
Indonesia
Indonesia is also a fantastic destination to travel in May. Here, the weather is generally warm and dry. It makes it ideal for exploring its natural beauty. Bali, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife is particularly popular among tourists. With its tropical climate and hospitable locals, Indonesia stands out as a top travel destination in May.
Top places to visit:
- Borobudur and Prambanan temples in Yogyakarta
- Beaches and Lush Rich Terraces in Bali
- Mount Rinjani and the serene Gili Islands in Lombok
Things to do:
- Celebrate the Bali Arts Festival
- Experience yoga retreats or go hiking up Mount Batur
- Try diving, snorkelling and beach activities at Gili Islands.
Peru
Peru is an amazing destination for tourists looking for natural beauty and adventure. May marks the beginning of the dry season, which makes it comfortable to explore the country’s iconic sites. Here, the weather is generally warm, with clear skies, in the highlands. This month also offers the opportunity to experience traditional festivals and vibrant cuisine of Peru.
Top places to visit:
- Ollantaytambo and Pisac, and beautiful landscapes in Sacred Valley
- Arequipa and its nearby natural attractions like Colca Canyon
- Museums and historic centres in Lima
Things to do:
- Trek the famous Inca Trail
- Take a boat tour to the floating islands of Uros
- Fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines
South Africa
South Africa is a fantastic choice for a May vacation. It offers a diverse range of experiences, from wildlife safaris to vibrant city life. The weather during May is mild, with cooler temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities. It’s the start of the country’s winter season, which is an excellent time for game viewing. With feverish tourists than during the summer months, May offers a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Top places to visit:
- Table Mountain, Robben Island, beaches along the Cape Peninsula in Cape Town
- Kruger National Park
- Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill in Johannesburg
Things to do:
- Visit the Knysna Oyster Festival and Riebeek Valley Olive Festival
- Whale watching in Hermanus
- Cape Winelands Tours
European countries to visit in May
Germany
Germany is a beautiful country to explore in May for tourists. The country enjoys mild temperatures and blooming landscapes. Here, major cities come alive with festivals, open- air markets, and outdoor events. May is the best time to visit Germany’s historic castles, charming villages, and bustling cities.
Top places to visit:
- Brandenburg Gate, Berlin Wall, and museum island in Berlin
- Bavarian Alps in Munich
- Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Neuschwanstein Castle in the Romantic Road
Things to do:
- Enjoy the Berlin Gallery Weekend
- For motorsport fans, thrilling races at the Nurburgring
- Hike in the black forest
Turkey
Turkey is also a thrilling destination to visit in May. The moderate temperature makes it ideal for exploring the diverse landscape. The Aegean and Mediterranean coast with destinations like Antalya, boost beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters. It is perfect for tourists for relaxation and water sports. May also marks the beginning of the festival season in Turkey, with various cultural and musical events.
Top places to visit:
- Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque in Istanbul
- Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre in Ephesus
- Castle of St. Peter and the ancient city of Halicarnassus in Bodrum
Things to do:
- For cinema enthusiasts, International Istanbul Film Festival
- Relax on the Turkish Riviera
- Experience Hot air balloon rides in Cappadocia
Scotland
In May, Scotland offers mild weather and longer daylight hours. It is perfect for exploring its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The country’s lochs, castles, and vibrant cities come alive with various festivals and outdoor activities. Additionally, May has fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months. It makes the tour more peaceful and enjoyable.
Top places to visit:
- Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile and Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh
- Cairngorms National Park
- Scotland’ largest city, Glasgow
Things to do:
- Tour the Scottish Highlands
- Visit the Isle of Skye
- Go castle hunting
Czechia
Czechia (Czech Republic) is an amazing country to visit in May. During this month, the weather is pleasantly mild, with blooming flowers and green landscapes. Prague, the capital, is especially charming in May, offering a mix of historical architecture, and vibrant cultural events. The city’s iconic attractions can be explored comfortably. May is the time for several local festivals which adds a rich cultural experience to any visit.
Top places to visit:
- Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town Square in Prague
- Sedlec ossuary (Bone Church) and the Gothic St. Barbara’s Church in Kutna Hora
- Spilberk Castle and Villa Tugendhat in Brno
Things to do:
- Experience the Prague Spring International Music Festival
- Hike in Bohemian Switzerland National Park
- Tour the Moravian Wine Region
Explore more on best countries to travel in 2025
- Best Countries to Visit in February
- Best Places to Visit in March Outside India
- Best Places to Visit in April outside India
- Best Countries to Visit in June
- Best Countries to Visit in July
- Best Countries to Visit in September 2025
- Best places to visit in October outside India
- Best Places to Visit in November Outside India
- Best Places to Visit in December Outside India
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