The May holidays are one of the best times to travel: the weather is already summer-like, and prices haven’t peaked yet. Experts advise not to delay booking, as flight and hotel prices rise sharply once summer begins. Learn more about countries where you can enjoy an affordable vacation this spring

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Summer is traditionally considered the peak tourist season in most popular destinations, which is why vacation prices rise by tens of percent. That’s why the May holidays are the perfect time for a short trip. It’s already warm in many countries, but tourist traffic hasn’t peaked yet. According to travel experts, right now is the time to find great deals on flights and accommodations, which will become significantly more expensive in just a few weeks.

In the previous article, we talked about the TOP-10 tourist destinations according to Time Out, which are definitely worth visiting in 2026.

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Malta

Malta is one of the best destinations for a May holiday if you want to get a taste of summer without breaking the bank. The island is known for its mild Mediterranean climate and plenty of sunny days—there are over 300 of them a year. In May, the air temperature consistently stays around 24–26°C, making it comfortable to spend time both on the beach and on excursions.

A key advantage of Malta during this period is the absence of peak tourist crowds. There are significantly fewer people here in May than in June–August, so there are no lines at popular attractions and it’s easier to find good accommodations at reasonable prices. At the same time, the infrastructure is already fully operational: restaurants and beach clubs are open, and all excursions and entertainment options are available.

Another plus is the country’s compact size. Malta is ideal for a short 3–5-day trip, which fits perfectly with the May holiday schedule. During this time, you can see the capital, Valletta, the ancient city of Mdina, and visit the famous Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino. This allows you to combine a beach vacation with a cultural itinerary without exhaustion or long travel times.

From a practical standpoint, May is your last chance to book a trip to Malta at a good price before the high season begins. Demand spikes sharply at the start of summer, affecting both flight costs and hotel rates. So if you’re planning a trip for the May holidays, you definitely shouldn’t wait to book.

Learn more about the best Mediterranean islands for a vacation without crowds of tourists by following the link.

Balearic Islands (Spain)

The Balearic Islands are one of the best options for a trip during the May holidays if you’re looking for a Mediterranean getaway with European comfort. The archipelago includes the popular islands of Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, and each of these islands has its own atmosphere: from a peaceful family vacation to a more active lifestyle and nightlife. In May, the air temperature here usually stays between 22°C and 26°C—perfect for walks, excursions, and the first swims.

The main advantage of this destination in the spring is the absence of the summer rush. In June–August, the Balearic Islands are packed with tourists, and prices for accommodation and flights skyrocket. In May, however, you can find more affordable lodging options, enjoy the beaches without the crowds, and get that same “European vibe,” but in a much more comfortable setting.

Mallorca is considered the most versatile island—it has plenty of beaches, mountain scenery, and good infrastructure. Ibiza is perfect for those seeking an active vacation and nightlife, though it’s much quieter in the spring than during the party season. Menorca is a quieter option with incredible coves and nature, perfect for relaxation.

In our previous article, we discussed what makes the Solomon Islands so special in 2026.

Cyprus

Cyprus – another ideal destination for a May holiday if you want to combine warm weather, the sea, and affordable prices. By late spring, the weather here is consistently warm: air temperatures hover between 25°C and 28°C, and the sea gradually warms up to comfortable levels. This means you can fully enjoy both the beach and exploring the island without the exhausting heat.

One of Cyprus’s key advantages in May is the affordable cost of a vacation. It is during this period that you can still find good package deals or inexpensive flights, which will cost significantly more in the summer. At the same time, the level of service is already fully on par with the high season: hotels, beaches, restaurants, and tourist attractions are all open.

Cyprus is particularly well-suited for a short 3–5-day vacation. For example, the Paphos area is considered one of the best options: it combines beautiful beaches, a peaceful atmosphere, and a wealth of historical sites. In just a few days, you can explore ancient ruins, stroll along the promenade, and savor Mediterranean cuisine at a leisurely pace.

Another important point is that there are significantly fewer tourists in Cyprus in May than in the height of summer. This means more space on the beaches, shorter lines, and a generally more comfortable vacation experience. At the same time, the weather is already almost identical to summer, so there’s practically no difference in the experience, but the savings can be significant.

Bali

Bali is one of the most popular destinations for a tropical vacation, making it ideal for a trip during the May holidays. During this period, the island enters its dry season: the weather is stable and sunny, with temperatures around 27–30°C. Humidity is lower than in previous months, making the climate much more comfortable, even during active recreation.

Another important advantage of May is the balance between price and vacation quality. The main tourist flow begins to grow significantly closer to summer, so at the start of the season, you can still find great deals on accommodations: from budget guesthouses to villas with private pools. In June–August, prices for such options can increase significantly.

Bali attracts visitors not only with its beaches but also with a variety of experiences.

In a single trip, you can visit the rice terraces in Ubud, temples on cliffs, waterfalls, and volcanoes. This makes the destination versatile: it’s suitable for relaxation, for active travelers, and even for those seeking new experiences—such as surfing or yoga.

From a practical standpoint, the May holidays are one of the best times to explore Bali without the crowds. The island isn’t yet overrun with tourists, the atmosphere is more relaxed, and popular spots aren’t as crowded. This allows you to get the most out of your trip and experience the island’s true atmosphere.

In our previous article, we provided a selection of 7 European beach destinations for an early getaway, where it’s already warm in May.

Albania

Albania is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations, rapidly gaining popularity among travelers. It’s a particularly great option for the May holidays: the weather is already warm, nature is at its greenest, and there aren’t many tourists yet. Air temperatures usually hover between 22°C and 26°C, which is ideal for strolling along the coast and exploring the country.

The main reason to choose Albania is the prices. Compared to Greece or Italy, a vacation here can be significantly cheaper, while the quality of the beaches and nature is just as good. Particularly popular destinations include the Albanian Riviera, Ksamil, and Saranda, where you can find turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and picturesque landscapes without crowds of tourists.

Albania is perfect for a short 3–5-day trip. During this time, you can combine a beach vacation with short trips: visit ancient cities, national parks, or simply enjoy the coastal atmosphere. It’s also important that the country is gradually developing its tourism infrastructure while still retaining its “authentic” character.

Another plus is that May offers the best balance between price and comfort. By summer, demand for Albania rises, and with it, prices for accommodation and transportation go up. That’s why the May holidays are the perfect time to see this “hidden gem” of Europe without overpaying or dealing with the crowds.

Thailand

Thailand remains one of the most popular destinations for an exotic vacation, and the May holidays are a surprisingly good time to visit. Although the rainy season begins in some regions, the showers are usually brief and do not interfere with your vacation. At the same time, the air temperature stays steady at +30°C, and the sea remains warm and comfortable for swimming.

The main advantage of May is lower prices. After the peak tourist season, demand gradually drops, so you can find much more affordable accommodation options than in winter or early spring. This applies to both hotels and tours, making Thailand more accessible even for budget travelers.

Another plus is fewer tourists. Popular destinations like Phuket, Krabi, or the Phi Phi Islands become less crowded, allowing you to enjoy nature without the crowds. At the same time, the infrastructure operates as usual: restaurants are open, tours are available, and night markets and entertainment are bustling.

In the previous article, we talked about 3 underrated European destinations for summer vacations.

Mauritius

Mauritius is one of the best options for those who want to escape the usual European destinations during the May holidays and choose something more exotic. Unlike many tropical destinations, where the rainy season begins during this period, the weather in Mauritius remains stable and comfortable. Air temperatures hover between 25°C and 28°C, and the ocean remains warm and suitable for swimming.

Another important advantage is that May is considered a transitional season, when tourist numbers drop after the peak winter period. This means not only a more peaceful vacation but also the opportunity to find better deals on hotels and flights. During the high season, this destination becomes significantly more expensive, so a trip specifically during the May holidays can be a smart compromise between price and the quality of your vacation.

Mauritius is ideal for those seeking a classic “picture-perfect” vacation: white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, palm trees, and hotels with top-notch service. At the same time, it’s not just about relaxation—here you can go snorkeling, diving, explore national parks, or visit the famous Le Morne Peninsula.

Are you planning a trip and want to prepare without unnecessary stress? Visit World's travel guide contains key tips for travelers: rules of entry and stay, current requirements for tourists, basic safety, transportation and accommodation. Such a guide will help you quickly navigate a new country, avoid common mistakes during your trip, and plan your route taking into account practical nuances that often go unnoticed by tourists.

We remind you! Popular tourist destinations can be a trap. We have already told you which 8 places in the world Fodor’s advises to avoid in 2026 due to overtourism, environmental risks and social tension – and what alternatives to choose instead.