Top Travel Destinations for May

Can you almost taste it – Summer’s citrusy zing in May’s creeping warmth and brightening light? May is a perfect time to travel; many holiday destinations are at their peak, and the sense of the upcoming new season is in the air.

Europe will be emerging into summer proper in 2024, everywhere from Tuscan hilltop towns to golden Grecian beaches – and, if you’re sustainably minded, you can reach most of these dreamy destinations by train. Moreover, corners of Africa, the Caribbean, and Canada will peak as well. Therefore, it’s high time you hit the road. Explore these favorite holiday destinations in May for sun, adventures, and sightseeing.

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• 1. Sicily, Italy

  Temperature in May: 22°C high; 12°C low
  Season: spring
  Travel time from UK: 2 hours 55 minutes
  Time difference: GMT +1

  Sicily, the Mediterranean’s largest island, is a reliably sunny way to kick off an early summer. With its scalded volcano country, fertile wine lands, Greek temples, and Roman ruins, it offers a wealth of exploration. You can stroll through shady lanes in baroque hill towns like Ragusa and bask in sun-soaked plazas of Syracuse. Moreover, in May, the countryside blooms, and the warm waters beckon from picturesque beaches. Remember to bring your towel for a lunch visit in Porto Palo – a charming fishing village with the delightful cove, Capparrina di Mare, nearby.

  Sustainable travel tip: You can reach Sicily by rail aboard an InterCity train that journeys across the sea on a ferry. Start your trip in Paris via Eurostar, then take the overnight Thello sleeper to Milan, followed by an InterCity sleeper to Sicily’s notable destinations.

• 2. Catalonia, Spain

  Temperature in May: 20°C high; 12°C low
  Season: spring
  Travel time from UK: 2 hours 15 minutes
  Time difference: GMT +1

  Catalonia offers more than just Barcelona; it features medieval towns filled with charm and remarkable dining experiences. In May, Barcelona’s vibrant atmosphere shines with clear skies and fewer crowds. Venture into Girona’s historic quarter, which has become famous for its medieval beauty. Subsequently, head to Costa Brava, where quaint towns like Peratallada and Pals complement beautiful beaches, such as Aiguablava, which provide a slice of paradise just waiting to be enjoyed.

• 3. Malta

  Temperature in May: 24°C high; 15°C low
  Season: spring
  Travel time from UK: 3 hours 10 minutes
  Time difference: GMT +1

  Located between Sicily and Tunisia, Malta boasts a rich blend of European and African cultures. The archipelago starts to warm up by May, making it perfect for relaxing on sandy beaches, swimming in turquoise waters, or exploring ancient ruins. The vibrant capital, Valletta, offers a chance to experience delightful Maltese cuisine influenced by the Mediterranean, with culinary gems like pistachio cannoli and honey-glazed rabbit readily available. In addition, boutique hotels like Locanda La Gelsomina focus on sustainable practices, making your stay more responsible.