May is a wonderful time to travel, with spring in full bloom and warm temperatures beginning to settle in. Whether you’re looking for a beach getaway, a romantic city break, or a countryside escape, there are plenty of amazing destinations to visit in May. In this article, we’ll be highlighting five of the best places to visit in May 2023 plus a bonus one! Each of these destinations offers its own unique charm, history, and natural beauty.
1. Santorini, Greece
Santorini is one of the most popular islands in Greece, known for its stunning views, white-washed buildings, and beautiful beaches. May is a great time to visit Santorini, as the island is not yet crowded with tourists and the weather is mild and pleasant. Some must-see attractions in Santorini include the picturesque village of Oia, the Red Beach, and the ancient ruins of Akrotiri.
FUN FACT: Santorini was formed by a massive volcanic eruption around 3,600 years ago, which created a caldera and shaped the island’s unique geography.
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2. Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is a beautiful beach destination located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico. May is a great time to visit Tulum, as the weather is warm and sunny, but the crowds are not yet at their peak. Some must-see attractions in Tulum include the Tulum Ruins, the Gran Cenote, and the beautiful beaches of Playa Paraiso and Playa Ruinas.
FUN FACT: Tulum was once a thriving Mayan city and served as an important trading hub for goods such as jade and turquoise. Today, visitors can explore the Tulum ruins and learn about the city’s fascinating history.
3. Provence, France
Provence is a stunning region in the south of France, known for its lavender fields, picturesque villages, and delicious cuisine. May is a great time to visit Provence, as the lavender is in full bloom and the weather is warm and sunny. Some must-see attractions in Provence include the village of Gordes, the lavender fields of Valensole, and the Pont du Gard aqueduct.
FUN FACT: Provence is known for its delicious cuisine, including dishes such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and tapenade. The region is also famous for its rosé wine, which accounts for nearly 90% of the wine produced in Provence.
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4. Venice, Italy
Venice is one of the most romantic and iconic cities in Italy, known for its canals, gondolas, and beautiful architecture. May is a great time to visit Venice, as the weather is mild and the crowds are not yet at their peak. Some must-see attractions in Venice include St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and a gondola ride along the Grand Canal.
FUN FACT: Venice is made up of over 100 small islands that are connected by a network of canals and bridges. The city has no roads, and visitors must navigate the narrow alleys and waterways on foot or by boat.
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5. Kyoto, Japan
Kyoto is a beautiful city located in the Kansai region of Japan, known for its ancient temples, gardens, and traditional culture. May is a great time to visit Kyoto, as the weather is mild and the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Some must-see attractions in Kyoto include the Kinkaku-ji Temple, the Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Nijo Castle.
FUN FACT: Kyoto was once the capital of Japan and served as the center of politics and culture for over 1,000 years. Today, visitors can explore the city’s many temples, shrines, and traditional gardens, which are a testament to Kyoto’s rich history and cultural heritage.
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Bonus Destination: Amalfi Coast, Italy
If you’re looking for another stunning destination to visit in May, consider adding the Amalfi Coast in Italy to your list. This beautiful coastal region is known for its colorful villages, stunning views, and delicious cuisine. Some must-see attractions in the Amalfi Coast include the village of Positano, the town of Amalfi, and the beautiful beaches of Maiori and Minori.
May is a fantastic time to travel, and these five destinations offer a range of experiences and attractions to suit any traveler’s interests. Whether you’re looking for a beach getaway, a romantic city break, or a countryside escape, Santorini, Tulum, Provence, Venice, and Kyoto offer something for everyone. So why not start planning your May 2023 trip today and discover the beauty of these amazing destinations for yourself?
