With the onset of the summer months, flowers around Europe can be seen in full bloom. Residents indulge in ample outdoor activities. It is also this time of the year that many festivals are held across the continent and street buskers come out in their full form. May is also an ideal time to visit Europe because that is exactly before the peak summer season that witnesses thousands of tourists thronging these exotic destinations. If you are looking to visit Europe when the weather is still pleasant and crowds at bay, then May is your best shot. Continue reading below to find out about some of the best places to visit in Europe in May.
1. Cannes, France
Cannes in France is a beautiful city regardless of the month you plan to visit. This city is known for its glamour. However, in May, the charm of the city enhances due to the celebration of Cannes Film Festival. This festival is a world-wide attraction as it hosts the greatest celebrities from all around the world. This is when the star-studded city turns glamourous and festive. Cannes has well-established hotels and lots of good beaches that one can explore. It is also the perfect gateaway to towns like Côte d'Azur. Being a coastal town, the variety of seafood is in abundance and undeniably delicious.
2. Cocullo, Italy
Cocullo is a small, medieval town located in the Abruzzo region of South Italy. If you are visiting this town in May, then you are in time for the country’s annual snake festival. This festival is celebrated on the first of May and is a mind-boggling slithery ritual. During this festival, the locals adorn a statue of the patron Saint San Domenico di Sora with live snakes. Then, they parade around the town. The slithery festival attracts thousands of spectators as they watch snake charmers and catchers handle nd exhibit four types of snakes, before handing them over to worshippers. At the end of the festival, the snakes are released into the wild.
3. Jerez de la Frontera, Spain
If you plan to visit Spain in May, then do not miss out on Jerez de la Frontera. The gorgeous city of Jerez de la Frontera flaunts its horses and even celebrates a horse festival. Apart from visiting the city for its charm and rich history, it is an eye-opening experience as you learn more about the Spanish horse which forms an integral part of Jerezano culture known as sherry. These horses are trained extensively for equestrian ballets which are then staged for large audiences. This is a truly entertaining experience for the entire family!
4. Athens, Greece
Athens is a great destination in Europe to visit if you are traveling in May. At this time of the year, before the peak season hits, affordable flights and hotels are easily available. Athens is known for being a historical and art hub. There are several guided tours that one can avail to explore the region at leisure. Music lovers will be delighted to know that May is the month where the famous Athens Jazz Festival is held in Athens. This festival is the biggest jazz festival in Greece and is held annually at the Technopolis City of Athens. More than twenty-five performers participate in this event, attracting thousands of people.
5. Brighton, UK
Brighton, in the UK, is one of the largest seaside towns located on the English Channel. Brighton has evolved into an idyllic vacation spot amongst locals and visitors alike. There are many luxury spas and hotels available for one to book. Apart from the beaches, visitors can also visit the varied souvenir shops and have some family fun at amusement arcades. If you are visiting this town in May, then do not miss staying on for the popular Brighton Festival which takes place in May every year. This festival, which attracts thousands of people, is a combination of music, theatre, dance, circus, family events and more.
6. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is regarded as the largest city in Catalonia and is one of the major destinations in Spain. Barcelona, in particular, begins teeming with tourists from all over the world in May. Enjoy the seaside atmosphere in this great city as you plan on the sights and sounds to take in while in Barcelona. May is when you get the chance to enjoy the summer whilst beating the crowds. May is also the season where one can enjoy the Primavera Sound which is held in Barcelona annually. Primavera Sound is a music event which brings together some of the world’s best musicians for a musical extravaganza.
7. Budapest, Hungary
While the days are warm in May, the nights in Budapest are slightly cool in Budapest. The weather in May is comfortable enough for people to walk around and enjoy the city sights. The city exhibits a festive mode and many different types of events are held such as Budapest 100, Rosalia Festival and Budapest Beer Festival. These events allow one to fully experience the culture, history and food and drinks scene of the country. Rosalia Festival, in particular, might be of interest to someone who is interested in wine. This annual rose and sparkling wine festival attracts thousands of people and is held at the heart of the city of Budapest.
8. Prague, Czech Republic
If you are planning to visit Europe in May, then make Prague a part of your itinerary. May is the best time to visit this beautiful city, just before the peak tourist season starts. Whilst being able to move around the city without the large crowds, you will also be able to secure good deals on accommodation and flights. May is also the month of the very famous Prague Spring International Music Festival. This musical extravaganza brings together some of the world’s most renowned musicians, orchestras and musical ensembles. This festival never fails to attract the crowds, both locals and tourists alike.
9. Lisse, Netherlands
Lisse is a pretty town located between Haarlem and The Hague and has a longstanding history. The fertile soil of the town makes it suitable for agriculture. As such, the region is known for the growth of flowers of various kinds. There are many flower fields around Lisse as well as flower bulbs which are cultivated here. Keukenhof, the world-renowned tulip park is near Lisse and a place which attracts thousands of tourists every spring.
10. Cyprus
May is the month when Cyprus opens all doors to its guests and citizens. Most of the entertainment venues that remain closed during the course of winter reopen now. May is also the month when the famous Reflect Festival takes place. This festival is a large future casting festival that attracts people from many parts of the world such as decision-makers, AI-enthusiasts and so on.
Enjoy the summer in Europe
Europe in May prepares to welcome the warm and vibrant temperate summer. There are many countries and cities in the continent that one can visit during this month. Enjoy the varied tourist destinations in Europe in May and have a great experience.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
-
28 Popular Festivals In EuropeFranchesca Judine -
10 Essential Packing List Items for EuropeChia Han Keong
Create an account to