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The places to visit in Europe in May promise sunshine, vibrant landscapes, and perfect weather for exploration. May is the ideal time to experience Europe’s charm before the summer crowds arrive. Wander through blooming tulip fields in the Netherlands, soak up the Mediterranean warmth in Greece, or stroll along Italy’s stunning Amalfi Coast. Whether you crave cultural festivals, scenic hikes, or beach getaways, this month offers it all. Get ready for an unforgettable summery escape filled with history, adventure, and breathtaking views. Let’s dive into the top European destinations to visit in May!
Top 10 Places To Visit In Europe In May
Plan your trip with our comprehensive list of the 10 best places to visit in Europe in May:
1. Amsterdam
Photo: Adrien Olichon / Unsplash
Amsterdam’s network of canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene make it a top European destination. In May, the city comes alive with festivals and events, offering visitors a chance to experience Dutch traditions firsthand. Exploring the city by bicycle is both practical and enjoyable, allowing tourists to navigate the narrow streets and scenic pathways with ease. The Keukenhof Gardens, located just outside Amsterdam, are in full bloom during this month too.
Location: North Holland province, western Netherlands
Major Attractions: Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House
Nearest Airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
Nearest Railway Station: Amsterdam Centraal
2. Lisbon
Photo: Claudio Schwarz / Unsplash
Lisbon’s sun-drenched hills and historic charm make it a captivating destination in May. The city’s seven hills offer numerous viewpoints, or miradouros, providing panoramic vistas of the Tagus River and red-tiled rooftops. A ride on the iconic Tram 28 takes visitors through narrow streets, past historic sites like the Sé Cathedral and the Basilica da Estrela. The Time Out Market Lisboa, housed in a historic 1892 building, features 26 curated food vendors, showcasing the best of Portuguese cuisine.
Location: Western Portugal, along the Atlantic coast
Major Attractions: The Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery
Nearest Airport: Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS)
Nearest Railway Station: Santa Apolónia Station
3. Dubrovnik
Photo: Matthias Mullie / Unsplash
Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a well-preserved ancient town that has gained prominence as a filming location for “Game of Thrones.” The city’s medieval walls offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the red-roofed buildings below. A cable car ride up Mount Srđ provides breathtaking vistas, especially at sunset. The crystal-clear waters surrounding Dubrovnik are perfect for swimming, with several beaches offering relaxation and water activities.
Location: Southern Croatia, along the Adriatic Sea
Major Attractions: The Old Town, Lokrum Island
Nearest Airport: Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)
Nearest Railway Station: Dubrovnik lacks a railway station
4. Santorini
Santorini’s iconic cliffside villages, with their white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches, make this one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. The island’s pleasant temperatures make it ideal for exploring its unique landscapes and historic sites. Visitors can relax on the distinctive black sand beaches, such as Perissa and Kamari, or visit the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, which offers insights into ancient Minoan civilization. The local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes like fava me koukia (yellow split pea puree), provides a delightful culinary experience.
Location: Southern Aegean Sea, part of the Cyclades archipelago
Major Attractions: The Caldera, Oia Village, Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Major Attractions: Caldera, Oia Village, Akrotiri Archaeological Site
Nearest Airport: Santorini (Thira) International Airport (JTR)
5. Prague
Photo: Dmitry Goykolov / Unsplash
Prague’s cobblestone streets and historic squares make May an ideal time to explore this fairy-tale city. The city’s lush gardens and parks, such as Petrin Hill, are in full bloom, offering scenic spots for relaxation. The Prague Astronomical Clock, located in the Old Town Square, is a medieval marvel that delights visitors with its hourly show. The Jewish Quarter (Josefov) provides a deep dive into the city’s Jewish history, with sites like the Old Jewish Cemetery and several synagogues.
Location: Central Czech Republic, on the Vltava River
Major Attractions: Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, Old Town
Nearest Airport: Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Nearest Railway Station: Praha hlavní nádraží (Prague Main Station)
6. Seville
Photo: Taisia Karaseva / Unsplash
Seville’s flamenco rhythms and ornate Moorish architecture create a captivating atmosphere in May. The city’s numerous plazas, such as Plaza de España, come alive with vibrant tile work and fountains. The Metropol Parasol, known locally as “Las Setas,” is a modern wooden structure offering panoramic city views from its walkway. Seville’s Triana neighborhood, located across the Guadalquivir River, is famed for its ceramics and flamenco heritage.
Location: Southwestern Spain, along the Guadalquivir River
Major Attractions: Alcázar of Seville, Christopher Columbus’s tomb, Seville Cathedral
Nearest Airport: Seville Airport (SVQ)
Nearest Railway Station: Sevilla Santa Justa
7. Edinburgh
Photo: Connor Mollison / Unsplash
Edinburgh’s historic castles and lush gardens make May a delightful time to explore this cultural hub. The city’s Royal Botanic Garden showcases a vast collection of plants, offering a serene escape. The National Museum of Scotland provides insights into the country’s history and culture, with interactive exhibits suitable for all ages. Calton Hill offers panoramic views of the city and is home to several iconic monuments, including the National Monument and the Nelson Monument.
Location: Southeastern Scotland, along the Firth of Forth
Major Attractions: Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Nearest Airport: Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Nearest Railway Station: Edinburgh Waverley
8. Bruges
Photo: Despina Galani / Unsplash
Bruges, sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the North,” captivates tourists with its meandering canals and mediaeval buildings. The city’s Market Square (Markt) is lined with colorful guild houses and dominated by the towering Belfry of Bruges, offering panoramic city views from its summit. The Church of Our Lady houses Michelangelo’s renowned sculpture, Madonna and Child, a testament to the city’s rich artistic heritage.
Location: Flanders region, northwest Belgium
Major Attractions: Markt Square, Belfry of Bruges
Nearest Airport: Brussels Airport (BRU)
Nearest Railway Station: Bruges Railway Station
9. Vienna
Vienna in May is a cultural paradise, with blooming gardens and outdoor cafés adding to the city’s imperial charm. The Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen), held annually from May to June, showcases a diverse array of theatre, opera, and dance performances from around the world, attracting approximately 100,000 visitors each year. Music enthusiasts can also enjoy the Vienna Spring Festival, an annual classical music event featuring renowned orchestras and soloists.
Location: Eastern Austria, along the Danube River
Major Attractions: Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Nearest Airport: Vienna International Airport (VIE)
Nearest Railway Station: Wien Hauptbahnhof
10. Cinque Terre
The colorful cliffside villages of Cinque Terre are at their best in May, with warm weather and fewer crowds. This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises five villages—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore—each offering unique landscapes and cultural experiences. The Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail), a scenic coastal path connecting the villages, provides breathtaking views of the Ligurian Sea and terraced hillsides. May’s mild climate is ideal for hiking and exploring the region’s natural beauty.
Location: Liguria region, northwest Italy
Major Attractions: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail)
Nearest Airport: Pisa International Airport (PSA)
Nearest Railway Station: La Spezia Centrale
Our list of the best places to visit in Europe in May promises a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. This is the time for scenic hikes, lively festivals, and open-air cafés. Plan your trip wisely to make the most of Europe’s spring charm. With blooming landscapes and pleasant temperatures, May is truly one of the best times to explore Europe’s hidden gems and iconic destinations! Experience the best of Europe in May with TripXL!
Cover Photo: Dawid Tkocz / Unsplash
