If there’s a better month for travel than May, we don’t know what it is. The weather is mild; the crowds are small. And the sense of possibility that comes with fully-sprung spring leavens every adventure.
From the forests of Japan to the islands of Greece, here are our top spots for May travel.
Japan
From early June through the end of summer, Japan’s weather trends sticky and hot—not ideal for outdoor adventures. But by May, the country has safely emerged from its cocoon of winter, yet temperatures remain mild. What better time to stroll larch forests, hike altar-lined paths, whitewater raft through scenic gorges and bike the serpentine Pacific coast. Bonus: May visitors often catch the tail end of Japan’s famed Sakura cherry blossom season.
Learn more about Backroads’ Japan Trips
Greece
Greece has been a crossroads for thousands of years, so it knows a thing or two about hospitality. And after a long winter, the country is ready to welcome another season of visitors from around the world. That’s the trick of May: you’ll be there before the crowds, a time when the weather is great, the sights are still uncrowded, and you’ll be welcomed with enthusiasm. Whether you’re taking a sunrise stroll in Santorini, sipping local wines, sailing to a serene island or hiking to ancient ruins or hilltop monasteries, you’ll be making the most of May in Greece.
Learn more about Backroads’ Greece Trips
Yosemite
Yosemite’s secret remains safe for now: Spring really is the best season, especially in the national park’s iconic valley. It’s an uncrowded time when nature is at its peak: ephemeral seasonal waterfalls line the valley walls, big falls like Nevada and Yosemite are at their thundering best and the valley’s wildlife is waking up after a sleepy winter. Walk in the shadows of sequoia giants, soak up panoramic views from the trail and reconnect with the awe that comes from being in the presence of staggering natural beauty.
Learn more about Backroads’ Yosemite Trips
Sicily
The silky warmth of Sicily in May is reason enough to take a biking or hiking trip here, but the weather is only part of the picture of what makes late spring a great time to visit this southern Italian island. As a more local season, the roads and trails are quieter—perfect for biking through baroque towns and hiking the slopes of Mount Etna. And spring brings new bounty to the farms and tables of this slow-food paradise.
Learn more about Backroads’ Sicily Trips
England & Scotland
Any month that kicks off with a countrywide festival is a good month. England’s May Day festivities have ancient roots that celebrate the coming of summer. It’s this time of year that the countryside transforms into a sea of bluebells, cherry blossoms, daffodils and snowdrops. Make the most of May’s sunshine and hike quintessential English footpaths between hamlets, stop for traditional tea and sleep in country hotels.
Across the northern border in Scotland, the celebrations stretch all month long, festivals celebrating hillwalking and mountaineering, wild foods and folklore. May is also Whisky Month, a month dedicated to Uisge Beatha (water of life). It’s a just-right time to take to the great outdoors, hiking parts of the country’s long-distance trails, visiting sparkling lochs and staying at estate hotels and restored castles.
Learn more about Backroads’ England and Scotland Trips
