The best holiday destinations in May: sunshine, city vibes and natural highlights

Contents:

• Destination #1: The Balearic Islands, Spain – island hopping & that summer feeling
• Destination #2: The Canary Islands, Spain – guaranteed sunshine in May
• Destination #3: Malta – Old Town & island hopping
• Destination #4: Cyprus – Sun, coves & that springtime feeling by the Mediterranean
• Destination #5: Greece – Islands, tavernas & the joys of the early season
• Destination #6: Tunisia – Beach, Desert & Souks
• Destination #7: Cannes & the Côte d’Azur, France – glamour & film festival
• Destination #8: Paris, France – Springtime charm & tennis fever
• Destination #9: Reykjavík, Iceland – moments in nature & the start of spring
• Destination #10: Mauritius – Lagoons, nature & a relaxed island vibe
• May highlights: 14 stunning destinations with perfect weather
• Conclusion: May – the month for explorers: hidden corners and culinary discoveries

Destination #1: The Balearic Islands, Spain – island hopping & that summer feeling

• Why visit in May: The Balearic Islands are ideal in May because the islands already feel like summer – pleasantly warm, with long days and plenty of life – but are often still much more relaxed than in the height of summer. It’s precisely this pre-season balance that’s perfect for days on the beach, coastal walks and evenings by the sea, without the typical July/August crowds.

• Highlights: Palma & the Tramuntana mountains (Mallorca), quiet coves (Menorca), Dalt Vila & sunset spots (Ibiza), dream beaches (Formentera). You’ll also find various blog posts on the Balearic Islands here – with inspiration and tips on Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza.

• Ideal for: beach holidays with a bit of variety, island hopping, couples, groups of friends (families tend to prefer Mallorca or Menorca).
• Getting there from Switzerland: Many direct flights depending on the season (mainly to Mallorca, Ibiza and Menorca); it’s possible to travel between the islands by ferry.

• Event 2026: Palma International Boat Show (29 April–2 May 2026) – the season kicks off at Palma Marina with yachts, maritime highlights and Riviera flair along the promenade.

Destination #2: The Canary Islands, Spain – sunshine guaranteed in May

• Why May: The Canary Islands are ideal in May because you get what’s practically ‘summer light’: pleasantly warm, plenty of time outdoors, but often without the huge crowds of the peak season. Perfect if you want to combine days on the beach with nature – volcanic landscapes and viewpoints in the morning, a bay in the afternoon, and a relaxed evening meal.

• Highlights: Mount Teide & National Park (Tenerife), Maspalomas Dunes (Gran Canaria), Timanfaya (Lanzarote), beaches & surfing (Fuerteventura), hiking (La Palma/La Gomera). You’ll also find several blog posts on our site about the Canary Islands – including Fuerteventura, Tenerife and Gran Canaria – with inspiration and tips on each island

• Ideal for: beach holidays with plenty to do, active holidays, families, couples, ‘guaranteed sunshine’ in spring.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Depending on the season, there are many direct flights (mainly to Tenerife and Gran Canaria; some also to Lanzarote and Fuerteventura).
• Event 2026: Día de Canarias (30 May 2026) – a regional public holiday featuring folklore, music, local specialities and events across the islands.  Optional event specifically on Tenerife: Baile de Magos (29 May 2026, Candelaria) – a traditional evening festival featuring traditional costumes, communal dining and folk music.

Destination #3: Malta – Old Town & island hopping

• Why visit in May: Malta is ideal in May because the islands are already very pleasantly warm, yet in many places the atmosphere is still much more relaxed than in the peak season. It’s precisely this pre-season atmosphere that makes it perfect for combining beach life with culture: Valletta and the ‘Three Cities’ in the morning, a bay for a swim in the afternoon – and in the evening, restaurants, rooftop bars and harbour promenades, without everything feeling overcrowded.

• Highlights: Valletta & Grand Harbour, Mdina (the ‘Silent City’), the Three Cities, the Blue Grotto, days at the beach (e.g. Mellieħa Bay), a boat trip to Gozo/Comino (Blue Lagoon, depending on how busy it is). You’ll find even more inspiration in our blog post ‘Discovering Malta: The Top 10 Sights’ – ideal for planning your itinerary and combining the most beautiful spots in a targeted way.

• Ideal for: short breaks combining sun, culture and the sea; couples; groups of friends; island hopping.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Seasonal direct flights to Malta (MLA); once there, transfers or a hire car are recommended.
• Event 2026: Ritmu Roots Festival (20–23 May 2026) – a cultural festival celebrating Maltese folk traditions (music, workshops, programme).

Destination #4: Cyprus – sunshine, bays and that springtime feeling by the Mediterranean

• Why visit in May: Cyprus is ideal in May because it’s already pleasantly warm, yet in many places it’s still much more laid-back than during the peak season. Perfect for a mix of days on the beach, short road trips and culture – without the summer heat, with long evenings by the water and plenty of that ‘outdoor living’ atmosphere.
• Highlights: stunning beaches and coves, old towns and tavernas, excursions to the Troodos Mountains, archaeological sites (e.g. around Paphos), sunset spots along the coast.
• Ideal for: beach holidays with a bit of variety, couples, families, leisurely getaways and short road trips.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Flights (seasonal/subject to timetables) usually to Larnaca or Paphos; from there, easy to travel along the coast by hire car or transfer.
• Event 2026: Anthestiria (Flower Festival) in Limassol – a flower festival in May featuring a flower parade and decorated floats. The exact date is yet to be announced, but it typically takes place in early May.

Destination #5: Greece – Islands, tavernas & the joys of the early season

• Why visit in May: Greece is ideal in May because you can already get that real summer feeling, yet things are still much more relaxed than in the peak season. The days are long, the evenings pleasantly mild – perfect for combining the beach with culture: in the mornings, wander the old town’s narrow streets or take a trip into the countryside; in the afternoons, head to a bay; and in the evenings, enjoy a taverna with a sea view. May is particularly well-suited to Crete, as it’s often warm enough for a dip, whilst still being ideal for walks and day trips. 

• Highlights: that island vibe on Santorini / Naxos / Paros, beaches & bays, tavernas, short road trips; on Crete: coast + mountains + villages (and often plenty of sunshine already). You’ll also find plenty of blog posts on Greece here – with inspiration on islands, route ideas, sights and practical tips for leisure and beach holidays.

• Ideal for: beach holidays with a bit of variety, couples, groups of friends, leisure & ‘light island hopping’ in the early season.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Depending on the season, there are many direct flights (mainly to Heraklion/Chania and to islands such as Santorini/Mykonos); alternatively, via Athens and then on by domestic flight or ferry.

• Event 2026: Athens Jazz (25–31 May 2026) – a whole week of jazz concerts at Technopolis in Athens – ideal for combining a May evening in the city with live music.

Destination #6: Tunisia – Beaches, Desert & Souks

• Why visit in May: Tunisia is ideal in May because it’s already really sunny and warm, but usually hasn’t quite reached the full heat of summer yet. It is precisely this ‘pre-season warmth’ that makes it perfect for combining relaxing days on the beach with excursions: wandering through the medina’s alleyways in the morning, heading to the sea in the afternoon – or taking a day trip to ancient sites and villages with stunning views, without it all becoming a sweaty affair. What’s more, many holiday resorts are already operating at a comfortable level in May, but are often still quieter than in the height of summer. (Typical conditions include warm days in the mid-20s, with little rain.) 
• Highlights: Tunis (Medina & markets), Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, seaside resorts such as Hammamet or the island vibes of Djerba; for ‘more’: a side trip towards the Sahara/oases (e.g. Tozeur/Douz, depending on the route).
• Ideal for: beach holidays with a cultural programme, couples, families, short sun breaks with day trips.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Depending on the flight schedule, direct flights to Tunis (some also seasonal to holiday airports); followed by transfers or a hire car for coastal resorts or a round trip.
• Event 2026: Tunis International Book Fair (23 April–3 May 2026) – a major book fair with a programme at Le Kram (ideal if you’re there in late April/early May).

Destination #7: Cannes & the Côte d’Azur, France – Glamour & the Film Festival

• Why visit in May: In May, the Côte d’Azur feels like a foretaste of summer – sunny, lively, but often even more relaxed than during the peak season. Right now, the combination of the coast, old towns, markets and the sea is particularly enjoyable: strolling along the promenade or in small coves during the day, and enjoying an aperitif with a view of the water in the evening. And when it’s festival time in Cannes, the whole region takes on that special blend of glamour, energy and a ‘be there in person’ atmosphere.

• Highlights: La Croisette, the old town of Le Suquet, day trips to Antibes, Nice and Èze, coastal roads, beaches and beach clubs. You’ll find even more inspiration in our blog post ‘France’s Coast: The Magic of the Côte d’Azur’ – with extra tips, lovely stops and ideas for perfect day trips along the Riviera.

• Ideal for: couples, leisure & lifestyle, photography, combined Riviera tour.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Very easy by flight to Nice (NCE) and onwards by train/transfer; alternatively, by train via France (depending on your starting point).

• Event 2026: Cannes Film Festival (12–23 May 2026) - – During this time, Cannes is all about film: around La Croisette, premieres, stars, events and a special ‘glamour’ atmosphere ensure that the whole city is buzzing with excitement.

Destination #8: Paris, France – Springtime charm & tennis fever

• Why visit in May: Paris is a classic choice in May because everything has a springtime feel: long evenings by the Seine, outdoor cafés, parks bursting with colour – and a pace that feels much more pleasant than in the summer months. Ideal for exploring the city on foot: a museum in the morning, a stroll through the neighbourhood in the afternoon, a bistro in the evening. And when Roland-Garros gets underway, there’s an extra special sporting buzz in the air.

• Highlights: walks along the Seine, Le Marais, Montmartre, the Musée d’Orsay/Louvre, a picnic in the Jardin du Luxembourg. You’ll find even more inspiration in our blog post ‘Paris sights & insider tips: the most beautiful places for your city break’ – with additional ideas, suggested itineraries and special spots off the beaten track.

• Ideal for: couples, culture lovers, foodies, weekend breaks.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Very easy by train (TGV) or by plane.

• Event 2026: Roland-Garros (18 May–7 June 2026) – Paris becomes a tennis hub: during the Grand Slam tournament, a special sporting atmosphere pervades the city, with fans, public viewing events and that typical ‘spring in Paris’ vibe.

Destination #9: Reykjavík, Iceland – Moments in nature & the start of spring

• Why visit in May: Reykjavík is ideal in May because Iceland is now switching to ‘light’ mode: long days, often already noticeably milder, and nature feels alive and vibrant. This is perfect for combining city life with day trips: the Golden Circle, hot springs, waterfalls – whilst still enjoying a cosy evening in the capital. May is particularly well-suited if you want to experience Iceland actively without it feeling like a peak summer holiday.
• Highlights: Hallgrímskirkja, the harbour & food, Sky Lagoon/hot springs, the Golden Circle, the south coast (waterfalls/beaches).
• Ideal for: nature & road trips, photography, ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ scenery.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Depending on the season, some direct flights are available; otherwise, via European hubs.

• Event 2026: Reykjavík Arts Festival (30 May–14 June 2026) – at the start of the season, Reykjavík becomes a stage: with concerts, performances, exhibitions and cultural programmes at various venues across the city.

Destination #10: Mauritius – lagoons, nature & a laid-back island vibe

• Why visit in May: Mauritius is ideal in May because the island nation is transitioning into the more pleasant part of the year: the hot and humid summer (Nov–Apr) is over, and May is considered a transitional month leading into the drier, ‘cooler’ season. The result is often exactly the mix you’d hope for: warm weather for swimming, less oppressive humidity and ideal conditions for combining days on the beach with excursions into the island’s interior – from waterfalls to viewpoints. 
• Highlights: stunning beaches & lagoons, snorkelling/boat trips, Black River Gorges (hiking), Chamarel (7 Coloured Earth/waterfall), Port Louis with its market & waterfront.
• Ideal for: beach holidays offering ‘more than just the beach’, couples, honeymoons, leisure & nature, active island tours.
• Getting there from Switzerland: Usually one change (e.g. via major hubs) to Mauritius; once there, transfers or a hire car (depending on the hotel’s location) are advisable.
• Event 2026: Labour Day (1 May 2026) – a public holiday, often with a festive local atmosphere and events.

May highlights: 14 stunning destinations with perfect weather

• Egypt – Average temperature 27.8°C, 0 days of rain, water temperature 24°C
• Balearic Islands – Average temperature 21°C, 8 days of rain, water temperature 20.5°C
• Greece – Average temperature 20.2°C, 5 days of rain, water temperature 20.5°C
• Indonesia – Average temperature 27°C, 5 days of rain, water temperature 28°C
• Italy – Average temperature 17.3°C, rain on 13 days, water temperature 17°C
• Canary Islands – Average temperature 20.7°C, 3 days of rain, water temperature 21.9°C
• Cape Verde – Average temperature 22°C, 0 days of rain, water temperature 23°C
• Malta – Average temperature 19.8°C, 7 days of rain, water temperature 18.1°C
• Morocco – Average temperature 21.8°C, 3 days of rain, water temperature 19°C
• Mauritius – Average temperature 21.5°C, 6 days of rain, water temperature 26°C
• Portugal – Average temperature 18.4°C, rain on 2 days, water temperature 17°C
• Turkey – Average temperature 20.8°C, 7 days of rain, water temperature 20.3°C
• Tunisia – Average temperature 20.7°C, 8 days of rain, water temperature 17°C
• Cyprus – Average temperature 21°C, rain on 4 days, water temperature 21°C

Conclusion: Perfect May weather for explorers – from hidden paradises to culinary gems

In conclusion, May, with its mild climate and smaller crowds of tourists, is an excellent time to explore some of the world’s most beautiful places. From the sun-drenched beaches of Mallorca and the turquoise waters of Mauritius to the historical treasures of Turkey and the lively markets of Tunisia – May provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable trips.

Before you set off on your May adventure, why not take a look at our exclusive travel offers? There, you’ll find inspiring travel ideas and attractive deals waiting to transform your next destination into an extraordinary and affordable experience.