May is one of the smartest months to travel abroad because it sits in the sweet spot between “shoulder” and “peak” travel seasons: spring in Europe and East Asia, dry and warm conditions across much of Southeast Asia and the Indian Ocean, and autumn easing in parts of the Southern Hemisphere.
For Indian travelers, May aligns well with summer break plans, and a 6N/7D itinerary can balance city exploration with nature, beaches, culture, and adventure. This guide lists the top 10 countries to travel to in May 2026 with visa guidance, flight routes, cost estimates, weather ranges, and must-do experiences designed for practical trip planning.
10 Best Countries to Visit in May for an Unforgettable Trip
Here’s a list of the 10 best countries to visit in May, selected for their excellent weather, cultural highlights, seasonal attractions, and accessibility from India with a clear visa and travel pathways:
- Japan
- Netherlands
- Greece
- Spain
- Italy
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- South Africa
- Indonesia (Bali & Beyond)
- Egypt
Why May Is an Ideal Time to Travel Abroad?
- Perfect Shoulder-to-Peak Season Balance: May sits between off-peak and peak travel seasons, giving you pleasant temperatures (typically 18–28°C across many regions), lower flight and hotel rates than summer, and better availability in mid-range hotels and guided tours. Cities like Rome, Athens, Madrid, and Tokyo are lively yet not overwhelmed by tourists, allowing calmer, more immersive experiences.
- Global Seasonal Highlights: May delivers spring blossoms in Northern Hemisphere destinations and comfortable pre-rain conditions in Southeast Asia. While Japan’s cherry blossoms peak earlier, May brings lush gardens and festivals; the Netherlands displays late tulip colors in gardens and polder landscapes, and coastal regions in Mediterranean countries warm up for beach days.
- Cultural Festivals & Local Events: May hosts unique events such as Golden Week in Japan (late April–early May), Liberation Day (May 5) in the Netherlands, and Beltane celebrations in parts of Europe. Thailand’s Songkran (in April) transitions to calmer festivals in May, and Vietnam celebrates Reunification Day (April 30) and Labour Day (May 1), enhancing cultural vibrancy.
- Budget Advantage for Early Planners: International airfares to Europe and Asia in May often remain 10–25% cheaper than peak summer months (June–August). Early bookings for May departures typically secure better hotel and internal transport deals.
- Comfortable Outdoor Weather: May avoids winter cold and summer heat extremes, making it ideal for hiking in Greece, countryside drives in Italy, temple tours in Japan, or safaris in South Africa. With more stable weather and moderate UV levels, it ranks among the safest times for varied outdoor travel worldwide.
1. Japan
Japan is one of the top travel destinations in May because this month brings verdant landscapes, clear skies, and numerous cultural events following the late spring after cherry blossom season. May often blends the tail end of Golden Week with quieter afternoons perfect for exploring temples, cities, and countryside scenery.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indian travelers must obtain a tourist visa before travel. Apply through the Japanese Embassy/Consulate or authorized visa centers (e.g., OneVasco) with passport, travel itinerary, hotel bookings, bank statements, and other supporting documents. Processing can take several weeks, so apply early.
- How to Reach: Direct flights operate from major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai, to Tokyo (NRT/HND) and Osaka (KIX). Airlines include Air India, ANA, Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Emirates with single-stop options via Singapore or Dubai.
- Weather in May: May in Japan generally features mild, pleasant temperatures (16–27°C) across major regions. Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto see comfortable days with sunshine and lower humidity before the rainy season starts in June.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: Approximately ₹160,000–₹280,000+ (excluding international flights). Costs vary based on itinerary (Tokyo–Kyoto–Osaka), rail passes (e.g., JR Pass), hotel grade, and intercity travel.
- Tourist Attractions: Tokyo (Senso-ji, Shibuya), Kyoto (Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama), Osaka Castle, Nara Park, and Mount Fuji viewpoints.
- Best Things To Do: Ride the Shinkansen, do temple and street-food walks, visit gardens/parks, see cultural shows, and take day trips to Fuji/Nara.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 7–10 days
Must Read: Japan Visa For Indians – E-Visa Requirements, Eligibility & How To Apply
2. Netherlands
The Netherlands in May transforms into a scenic escape with extended spring bloom, bike-friendly landscapes, and cultural celebrations such as Liberation Day (May 5), which is marked by concerts, markets, and free public events.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indian citizens must obtain a Schengen visa. Submit your application via the Dutch consulate or visa center (e.g., OneVasco) with travel insurance, flight and hotel bookings, and financial proof.
- How to Reach: Fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) from India via a one-stop connection (common hubs: Doha, Istanbul, and Dubai).
- Weather in May: Spring temperatures are generally 10–18°C, with occasional light showers. Days are longer and warmer than in April, making it ideal for cycling and outdoor café culture.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹170,000–₹250,000+ (excluding international flights). Prices depend on hotel category and activity passes (museums, canal cruises).
- Tourist Attractions: Amsterdam canals, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Keukenhof (seasonal), Zaanse Schans windmills, Giethoorn.
- Best Things To Do: Canal cruise, cycle countryside routes, museum hopping, tulip/flower field photography, and day trips to windmill villages.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 6–9 days
Must Read: Netherlands Visa Rejection in 2026
3. Greece
In May, Greece enjoys clear blue skies and warm, sunny weather (20–26°C), perfect for exploring ancient sites, seaside towns, and vibrant music and food cultures. The island ferry network operates frequently, opening up affordable transfers between islands.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indians require a Schengen visa to visit Greece. Applications should include travel insurance, itinerary, proof of funds, and hotel confirmations.
- How to Reach: Fly into Athens (ATH) via one-stop connections through Gulf or European hubs such as Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul. Ferries or short flights connect to islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Naxos.
- Weather in May: Expect pleasurable weather with sunny days and low rainfall. Coastal regions warm up earlier than inland areas, making beach and boat excursions very enjoyable.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹150,000–₹230,000+ (excluding international flights). Costs vary by island choices and travel style.
- Tourist Attractions: Athens Acropolis, Santorini caldera, Meteora monasteries, Delphi ruins, Crete (Knossos), and Mykonos old town.
- Best Things To Do: Ancient-site tours, island hopping, sunset viewpoints in Oia, Greek food walks, beach time, and coastal drives.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 7–10 days
Must Read: Greece Visa Photo Requirements for Indians
4. Spain
Spain in May is vibrant with cultural events and warm spring weather. May temperatures (18–26°C) remain ideal for leisurely city walks, beach days along the Mediterranean, and exploring historic plazas without summer’s bustle.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indian citizens need a Schengen visa. Apply with travel insurance, confirmed flights, hotel bookings, and financial documents.
- How to Reach: Arrive at Madrid (MAD) or Barcelona (BCN) via one-stop flights from Indian cities (common transit hubs include Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul).
- Weather in May: Southern Spain (Andalusia) warms up earlier, while northern cities are milder. Overall, conditions are comfortable, sunny, and suitable for both urban exploring and outdoor activities.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹160,000 – ₹240,000+ (excluding international flights). Prices vary by region and accommodation level.
- Tourist Attractions: Barcelona (Sagrada Familia), Granada (Alhambra), Madrid (Prado), Seville Cathedral, Córdoba Mezquita, and Costa del Sol.
- Best Things To Do: Tapas crawl, flamenco night, historic walking tours, beach days, day trips to Toledo/Córdoba/Seville.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 7–10 days
Must Read: Spain Visa for Indians: Your Complete Guide
5. Italy
Italy in May is particularly photogenic; cities and countryside awaken with spring greenery, Easter festivities may stretch into early May, and outdoor dining becomes ideal under the warm sun and mild evenings.
Visa Guidelines for Indians: A Schengen tourist visa is required. Apply well ahead with travel insurance, itinerary, and confirmed bookings.
How to Reach: Fly into Rome (FCO) or Milan (MXP) with one-stop flights (often via Gulf or European hubs).
Weather in May: Warm and pleasant (approx. 15–24°C) with low rain frequency, excellent for city walks, vineyard excursions, and coastal tours.
Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹160,000 – ₹240,000+ (excluding flights).
Tourist Attractions: Rome (Colosseum/Vatican), Florence (Duomo/Uffizi), Venice (Grand Canal), Pisa, Tuscany hill towns, and Amalfi (if extending).
Best Things To Do: Train-hop iconic cities, do food and gelato tours, have museum days, visit a Tuscan winery, and have gondola/canal experiences.
Ideal Vacation Duration: 7–10 days
Must Read: Italy Visa Rejection for Indian Nationals
6. Thailand
May in Thailand is warm as the dry season transitions toward the rains. Daytime temperatures (28–35°C) are hot, but most coastal areas (Phuket, Krabi, Koh Samui) remain suitable for beach and water activities early in the month before monsoon influence increases.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indian passport holders usually receive visa-free entry or a visa on arrival for tourism (subject to change; confirm with official embassy guidance).
- How to Reach: Fly into Bangkok (BKK/DMK) or Phuket (HKT) via direct and one-stop options from Indian cities.
- Weather in May: Hot and humid, with showers increasing toward month’s end in some areas. Sea conditions remain generally favorable for swimming and island hopping.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹60,000 – ₹1,10,000 (excluding international flights).
- Tourist Attractions: Bangkok temples (Wat Pho/Grand Palace), Phuket beaches, Krabi (Railay), Phi Phi Islands, and Chiang Mai old city.
- Best Things To Do: Island hopping and snorkeling, Thai street-food tour, night markets, temple visits, and Thai massage/spa day.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 7–9 days
Must Read: Thailand Visa Photo Size & Specifications – Complete Guide for Indians
7. Vietnam
Vietnam in May delivers comfortable weather across most regions; the north (Hanoi & Halong) is warm and dry, the central (Hoi An/Da Nang) sees gentle sunshine, and the south (Ho Chi Minh City) remains pleasant before heavier rains begin. This makes it excellent for a full-country itinerary.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indian travellers can apply for a Vietnamese e-visa valid up to 90 days (check the official portal for up-to-date requirements).
- How to Reach: Fly into Hanoi (HAN), Da Nang (DAD), or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) with one-stop connections via major Asian hubs.
- Weather in May:
-
- Hanoi: ~21–30°C
- Da Nang: ~22–31°C
- Ho Chi Minh: ~26–34°C
Conditions are generally dry and sunny with increasing humidity toward late May.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹70,000 – ₹120,000 (excluding flights).
- Tourist Attractions: Halong Bay, Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoi An Ancient Town, Da Nang coastline, Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta.
- Best Things To Do: Overnight cruise (Halong), lantern evenings in Hoi An, street-food tour, motorbike city tour, Mekong boat ride.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 7–10 days
Must Read: Vietnam Golden Visa Explained: Requirements, Eligibility & Benefits
8. South Africa
May marks autumn in South Africa, a fantastic time for safaris and city exploration. With mild temperatures (~18–26°C) and lower rainfall in major park regions (like Kruger National Park). Daylight remains ample for wildlife viewing.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indian citizens need a South African tourist visa via the South African Embassy/visa center (submit passport, itinerary, proof of funds, and travel insurance).
- How to Reach: Fly into Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT) with one-stop routes via European or Middle Eastern hubs.
- Weather in May: Autumn months are drier and cooler, ideal for game viewing and scenic drives.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹190,000–₹290,000+ (excluding flights). Safari lodges and guided activities raise costs.
- Tourist Attractions: Kruger National Park, Cape Town (Table Mountain), Cape of Good Hope, Stellenbosch Winelands, Garden Route stops.
- Best Things To Do: Big Five safari, Cape Peninsula road trip, wine tasting, scenic hikes, coastal drives, and wildlife experiences.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 8–12 days
Must Read: South Africa Visa for Indians
9. Indonesia (Bali & Beyond)
Indonesia, especially Bali, is one of the top countries to visit in May because the dry season begins, producing sunny days, lower humidity, turquoise seas, and excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indian citizens can typically obtain a visa on arrival (VOA) for tourism (check official immigration updates before travel).
- How to Reach: Fly into Bali (Denpasar – DPS) via one-stop connections (common hubs include Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, or Bangkok).
- Weather in May: Dry and sunny with average temps of 26–32°C, ideal for beaches and cultural pursuits.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹75,000 – ₹140,000+ (excluding international flights).
- Tourist Attractions: Ubud rice terraces, Tanah Lot temples, Nusa Penida, Gili Islands, Komodo National Park (if extending).
- Best Things To Do: Beach clubs and sunsets, snorkeling/diving, Mount Batur sunrise trek, temple trail, and island hopping from Bali.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 7–10 days
Must Read: Indonesia Visa For Indians – E-Visa Requirements, Eligibility, Fees & How To Apply
10. Egypt
Egypt in May is exceptionally inviting; temperatures (~25–32°C) are warm but not oppressive, making it perfect for ancient site tours, Nile cruises, and Red Sea diving before peak summer heat.
- Visa Guidelines for Indians: Indian citizens usually need a tourist visa or e-visa before travel. Check the official Egyptian Embassy or visa facility for the latest updates and processing steps.
- How to Reach: Fly into Cairo (CAI) via one-stop options from Indian cities (common transits: Dubai, Doha, Istanbul).
- Weather in May: Warm and comfortable for daytime touring with limited rainfall.
- Average Tour Price/Person for 6N/7D: ₹130,000–₹220,000+ (excluding flights).
- Tourist Attractions: Pyramids of Giza & Sphinx, Egyptian Museum (Cairo), Luxor temples, Valley of the Kings, and Red Sea resorts.
- Best Things To Do: Guided pyramid day, Nile cruise (Luxor–Aswan), bazaar walks, Red Sea snorkeling/diving, desert excursions.
- Ideal Vacation Duration: 7–10 days
Must Read: Egypt Visa Extension – Process, Fees & Documents
FAQs
Which is the best country to visit in May?
Greece is the best country to visit in May if you want the most reliable mix of great weather, scenic islands, and easy sightseeing, because you get warm spring temperatures and fewer peak-summer crowds. If your priority is a tropical beach vacation, Indonesia (Bali) or Thailand are better picks for warm sea days and resort-style trips.
Where is it warm in May in Europe?
Southern Europe is warmest in May, especially Greece, Italy, and Spain, where daytime temperatures are usually comfortable for open-air sightseeing and early beach time. It’s not peak-summer heat yet, but it’s ideal for long walking days, coastal drives, and outdoor dining.
Is May a good time to visit Japan?
Yes, May is a great time to visit Japan because the weather is mild and clear in many regions, and the landscapes turn lush after the cherry blossom season. It’s one of the easiest months for temple visits, city walks, and day trips before the June rainy season and summer humidity.
Which are the best places to visit in May?
The best places to visit in May are Japan, the Netherlands, Greece, Spain, Italy, Thailand, Vietnam, South Africa, Indonesia (Bali & beyond), and Egypt.
Where should I go abroad in May?
Go to Indonesia (Bali), Thailand, or Vietnam if you want warm weather and beach-focused plans. Choose Greece, Italy, or Spain if you want a European trip with comfortable spring temperatures and fewer crowds, and pick South Africa for safaris or Egypt for warm, history-heavy sightseeing.
What country has warm weather in May?
Thailand, Vietnam (especially central and south), Indonesia (Bali), and Egypt are among the warmest May options, making them strong picks for beaches, cruises, and outdoor activities. Greece and southern Italy are also pleasantly warm, but they’re more “mild-warm” than tropical.
Is May a good time to visit Europe?
Yes, May is one of the best times to visit Europe because it’s shoulder season with better hotel value, fewer crowds than summer, and comfortable weather for sightseeing. The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, and Greece are especially rewarding in May because you get long daylight and spring-to-early-summer vibes without peak-season pressure.
