Need a hot holiday in May? These destinations are balmy in early spring
Every year, we find ourselves asking 'where is hot in May'? Although the spring season should be well under way in the UK and the need for winter breaks is over, you might have to head a little further afield for guaranteed sunshine.
Much like the hunt for where is hot in March and April (and even the search earlier in the year in January and February), there are some long-haul destinations that tick the boxes, whether you're seeking a city break or a fly and flop treat. The Seychelles reach the ideal hot-but-not-sweltering temperatures in May, as does much of Japan (which is unmissable in spring time) and more unexpected locations like South Korea.
But May is also the time that Europe wakes up from its wintery slumber and beckons visitors who are keen to get some spring sunshine without the crowds. In fact, some of the best hot holidays in May take the form of European city breaks, when it's not too hot to soak up some culture through days of sightseeing.
Then there are European beach holidays, a dreamy choice for hot holidays in May, with temperatures around the mid-twenties in hotspots like Ibiza and Malta. There are some amazing hotels to check in to in each, but you also might want to rent, with great options for Paros Airbnbs if you're looking for a Cycladic treat.
So, here's our edit of the where is hot in May in Europe and beyond...
Florence, Italy - where is hot in May?
Visit Florence in May and not only will you get to enjoy balmy temperatures of up to 24ºC, you'll also avoid the hordes of tourists that descend on this historic city in the summer months. Thanks to both of these, you'll be able to wander the city's soul-stirring streets and piazzas, visit the Uffizi Gallery without queuing, see the Duomo without the crowds – and score a table at the best restaurants in town. You'll also get a better rate at the best hotels, like Villa La Massa, which is set outside the main city on the banks of the Arno River.
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Hokkaido, Japan - where is hot in May?
Japan may be famous for the transient beauty of cherry blossom, celebrated in the ritual of hanami, but if you go a little off the beaten track to the volcanic northern island of Hokkaido, you'll also get to witness flower fields bursting into life. Cherry blossom also blooms later here, so you might well catch the last of it in May, when temperatures reach the comfortable teens – and can go up to 20ºC. Stay in the capital city of Sapporo in a hotel like the sleek Cross Hotel – and remember that, thanks to the bullet train, Tokyo is only four hours away.
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Ibiza, Spain - where is hot in May?
You might know it as the party isle – and there are plenty of opportunities for late-night revelry in the wild child of the Balearics – but Ibiza is also a place of elevated seafood restaurants, bohemian spirit and scenic, secluded coves. The latter are quieter than ever in May, when the average temperature is a pleasant 18ºC and highs can reach the mid-twenties. More than enough for a blissful beach day or long, languid pool session. For that, you'll want to stay in a place like Mondrian Ibiza (or its neighbouring Hyde Ibiza), which is fresh for this year's season and has direct access to Cala Llonga beach. And if you do want to experience the White Isle's legendary nightlife, you may be interested to know that opening parties kick off at the end of April...
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Seoul, South Korea - where is hot in May?
May is great time to visit South Korea's vibrant metropolis, Seoul. The end of springtime sees temperatures in the late teens and early twenties – ideal for exploring the city's buzzy skyscrapers and pop culture as well as serene temples and palaces. Splash out on a stay at Four Seasons Seoul, which is near to key sites including Gyeongbokgung Palace, Jongmyo Royal Shrine and Bukchon Hanok Village. The achingly sleek modern style and international luxury is tempered with authentic Korean hospitality, so you'll know exactly where you are throughout your stay.
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Paros, Greece - where is hot in May?
Hot holidays in May can be a great way to visit an area that can become overrun with tourists later on in the year – and Paros is a case in point. This heavenly Greek island has surged in popularity in recent years, thanks to its classic Cycladic architecture, heavenly beaches and charming villages. Summer starts early here, and you can gladly swim in the glistening Aegean sea in May, when temperatures can reach 23ºC. To experience an authentic stay on the island, find a Paros Airbnb like this dreamy beach house for four.
Budapest, Hungary - where is hot in May?
With architectural splendour and cultural intrigue, Budapest makes a great city break at any time of year. But it's particularly good if you're on the hunt for where is hot in May, when temperatures average 19 or 20ºC – and can rise to 23ºC. This makes for the most perfect sun-dappled spring strolls along the gleaming Danube River and the gorgeous green spaces and majestic buildings that surround it. For an elegant stay right at the heart of it all, check in to Matild Palace, a gem that transports guests back to the Belle Epoque era with heaps of Hungarian heritage – not to mention chic, airy rooms and elevated classics in a restaurant by Wolfgang Puck.
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Seychelles - where is hot in May?
This classic hot holiday destination is perfect in May, when you can expect maximum temperatures of 29°C and an average of eight hours of sunshine per day – the ultimate antidote to disappointing British springs. What's more, underwater visibility is best in the month of May, so diving and snorkelling fans will rejoice. Splash out on a stay at the divine Six Senses Zil Pasyon on the secluded private island of Félicité in the Seychelles. Here, you can expect pure white beaches, rocky outcrops, an eco-conscious ambience and the freshest seafood known to man.
Valletta, Malta - where is hot in May?
When you ask where is hot in Europe in May, you also need to ask where is reliably dry in May – and Malta is both. You might need a light jacket for evenings here, but daytime temperatures reach the mid-twenties, making for the perfect sunny weather to enjoy the vibrant towns and bays surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. Another compelling reason to come here is the beautiful places to stay – including Welcome Beyond's upscale portfolio, where you'll find boutique gems like Casa Ellul, a tiny, design-led hotel that has been owned by the same local family since the early 1800s.
More holiday ideas:
- The best alternatives to the Maldives
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