Top Travel in May 2025: The Best Destinations to Visit This Spring

Christianne Klein
6 days ago
4 min read

Northern Lights in Iceland. Image by Jo Kassis.

It’s hard to believe it’s already May of 2025. It's time to embrace warmer weather, pre-summer festivals, and stunning destinations. Spring is the absolute perfect season for travel.

From blooming gardens to beautiful beaches and regions rich with history, here are some exciting destinations to consider for your May 2025 getaways.

Kyoto, Japan: Embrace the Beauty of Spring May is one of the best months to visit Kyoto, Japan, as it offers breathtaking views, pleasant weather, and a glimpse of the tail-end of cherry blossom season. The city’s gardens, temples, and shrines are still alive with color, creating a picturesque atmosphere that is perfect for sightseeing. Wander through the famous Kinkaku-ji, or Golden Pavilion, and enjoy the tranquility of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. For an authentic cultural experience, check out the Aoi Matsuri festival, which takes place on May 15th. The parade features elegant costumes, traditional music, and a procession through the streets, providing travelers with a true taste of Kyoto’s rich heritage. The relatively calm crowds in May make it a great time to explore Kyoto without the hustle and bustle of peak season.
Barcelona, Spain: A Blend of Culture, Art, and Beaches May is the perfect time to visit Barcelona, Spain. With pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, you can enjoy the city’s beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere without the summer crowds. Explore the fantastic creations of Antoni Gaudí, including the iconic La Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Take a leisurely stroll down Las Ramblas, a lively street filled with street performers, shops, and restaurants with wonderful sangria. For art lovers, the Picasso Museum is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the early works of the renowned artist. May also marks the start of festival season in Barcelona, with the Primavera Sound Festival attracting music lovers from around the world. If you’re looking to relax, Barceloneta Beach is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean sun.
Provence, France: Lavender Fields in Bloom May is the ideal time to visit Provence in southern France, especially for those who love and dream of walking through fields of blooming lavender. While the lavender season peaks in July, May offers a beautiful lead-up with lush green landscapes and colorful wildflowers. Explore the charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon, where you can enjoy local markets, art galleries, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The region is also famous for its vineyards, so be sure to stop at one of the local wineries for a wine-tasting experience. In May, Provence hosts the Festival of Vins et Terroirs, a celebration of regional wine and food, making it an ideal time to indulge in the area’s cuisine.
Istanbul, Turkey: Where East Meets West Istanbul is a city where history, culture, and modernity combine, and May is a fantastic time to experience this incredible metropolis. The weather is mild, making it perfect for exploring the city’s famous landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Stroll along the Bosphorus Strait and enjoy a ferry ride between Europe and Asia, a unique experience that you can’t get anywhere else. In May, Istanbul also hosts the Istanbul Music Festival, which features performances by world-class musicians, as well as the Istanbul Film Festival, showcasing international films. These events provide an exciting cultural experience while offering travelers a chance to discover the city’s artistic side.
New York City, USA: A Vibrant Urban Escape New York City is a great destination in May, as the weather is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It's one of my favorite times of year in the city. Take a walk through Central Park as it comes to life with blooming flowers, lush greenery, and outdoor performances. Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or the Metropolitan Museum of Art to immerse yourself in world-class art collections. If you’re lucky, you may be able to enjoy a cocktail in the rooftop bar. May is also the start of Broadway’s peak season, with many exciting new shows premiering. Don’t miss the annual Fleet Week celebration, where you can enjoy parades, concerts, and military ship tours along the waterfront. The city is buzzing with energy in May, offering a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for urban explorers.
Cinque Terre, Italy: Coastal Charm and Scenic Hikes The picturesque Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site along the Ligurian coast in Italy, is a must-visit in May. The weather is ideal for hiking the famous Sentiero Azzurro, a cliffside trail that connects the five colorful villages. With mild temperatures and clear skies, you can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the charming coastal villages, including Monterosso al Mare and Vernazza. In May, the crowds are still manageable, so you can explore the area’s scenic beauty without the usual summer rush. Stop for a delicious seafood meal at one of the seaside restaurants or enjoy local specialties like pesto and focaccia.
Reykjavik, Iceland: Nature and Culture in Bloom May is a fantastic time to visit Reykjavik, Iceland, as the country finally embraces warmer weather. The weather is mild, and the days are longer, giving you plenty of time to explore the stunning natural beauty of the island. Take a trip to the famous Golden Circle, which includes the Geysir geothermal area, the Thingvellir National Park, and the Gullfoss waterfall. You can also enjoy Reykjavik’s vibrant arts and music scene, with May being the start of the city’s cultural festivals, including the Reykjavik Arts Festival. If you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights before they fully fade for the season.