travel to europe in may 2023

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25 Best Places To Visit In Europe In May (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

May is the best time to visit Europe. The sun is shining and feels warm on your skin. The grass is green, flowers have bloomed, and patios have started to open. There is a feeling of expectation and excitement with the thought that summer is just around the corner. Best of all, tourist crowds have not yet arrived. It is still considered shoulder season so hotels are reasonably priced and so much less expensive than the summer months. In other words, you get the best of all worlds – wonderful weather, travel savings, and the opportunity to visit stunning historical sites or walk along beautiful beaches without jostling for space. So where should you go? Here are the 25 best places to visit in Europe in May.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Options

After reviewing this article, you may be curious about other destinations in Europe in spring. Here are some other articles for travel inspiration.

You may be looking for the ultimate European destinations for romance and fun with your partner. If you are looking for inspiration, please see 26 Best Honeymoon Destinations In Europe In May .

Here are other springtime destinations in Europe by month:

• 25 Best Places To Visit In Europe In March ;
• 24 Best Places To Visit In Europe in April ; and
• 25 Best Places To Visit In Europe In June .

If you are keen to find good beach options in Europe around May, please see 27 Best Beaches To Visit In Europe In June .

For those who would prefer to find budget-friendly destinations in Europe, check out these fabulous spots:

• 29 Best Cheap Spring Destinations In Europe ;
• 27 Best Cheap Cities In Europe For A Fantastic Vacation ; and
• 22 Best Cheap Countries To Visit In Europe .

For those of you who are flexible about their destination, check out 25 Best Places To Visit In The USA In May .

Best Places To Visit In Europe In May

I have asked some of the best travel bloggers for their recommendations for the best European places to visit in May. Each of them highlights what makes these springtime vacation destinations a fantastic choice, the best things to do, and the expected weather. If there are annual events or festivals that could make it an even better May holiday, then those are mentioned as well. In addition, if someone stayed or knows of a fabulous hotel, it has been included.

Provence, France

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

The South of France is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year, but come May, the landscape puts on a special kind of show. Poppies bloom in every empty field, crack in the pavement, and between the ochre-coloured stones of ancient village houses. The poppies are joined by delicate almond blossoms, and vibrant yellow rapeseed, creating a spectacle for the senses. It’s a true delight to witness, like something straight from a Van Gogh painting, and one of the best places to go for a May getaway in Europe.

Besides the flowers, May is the best time to hike the region’s trails , including those in the incredible  Calanques National Park  which are studded with stunning beaches and breathtaking vistas.

Visit the bustling farmer’s markets which are brimming with fresh spring produce and locally made artisanal items. Explore the hilltop villages of the Luberon that aren’t yet overtaken by tourists, and which offer a true insight into what life in Provence used to look like.

May is also a perfect time to visit the Camargue, as visiting Flamingos are in high numbers at this time of year. If you can, try to time your visit with the annual festival held in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and witness religious processions in the streets, or the Lubéron Jazz Festival which is held later in the month.

Expected Weather

The weather in May is typically sunny & warm, with daytime temperatures averaging around 72°F.

Best Way To Reach The Destination

The main airport in Provence is in Marseille, with incoming flights from all over the globe. Alternatively, you can get the TGV high-speed train from Park to Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, or Marseille and continue your journey by rental car , private transport or train.

Best Place To Stay

Nadine says, “If you’re looking for somewhere truly special to stay, look no further than La Bastide de Marie which is situated in the Luberon and ideally located for exploring the region’s villages, poppy fields and vineyards.”

Krakow, Poland

By Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Kraków is one of the best destinations for a European trip in May for many reasons. The weather is very pleasant with lots of sunshine, but not so hot to be overwhelming when exploring the city. May avoids peak season, so there’s less likely to be crowds at the main attractions.

In addition, there are several amazing festivals in Kraków to attend in May including the Kraków International Film Festival, Kraków Month of Photography Festival and Juwenalia Student Festival where for a few days, the city is transformed into one big party.

And finally, Kraków is a really vibrant city with a rich history and buzzy nightlife. There are a staggering amount of  things to do in Kraków.   

These include exploring the Old Town , which is an UNESCO World Heritage site. Its main square, Rynek Glowny, is incredibly pretty and the largest medieval town centre in Europe.

Consider walking Planty Park, a gorgeous belt of green surrounding the old town. It really adds a sense of freshness to the city.

Take a tram ride out to Podgorze neighbourhood, which has several memorials to the victims of the Holocaust. There are also museums about those who helped, such as Oscar Schindler, whose enamel factory was here.

At the end of the day, watch the sunset over the River Vistula and Wawel castle.

As well as these activities, you could take day trips out of the city. For example, the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum is only 1.5 hours away by bus. This is a difficult place to visit but one that is important to see if you wish to understand the horrors of WWII and the Holocaust.

In addition, the Wieliczka Salt Mine is an extraordinary destination where you will see works of art crafted from and into the walls of a salt mine.

Average daytime temperatures are 68 degrees Fahrenheit with lots of sunshine.

To get to Kraków, you can fly into Kraków’s John Paul II International Airport, which is approximately 20 minutes’ drive to Kraków city centre, or Katowice Airport, which is more like an hour and 20 minutes. There are also direct trains from Berlin, Vienna, Prague, Budapest, Bratislava, and Kiev.

For old world charm with an exceptional breakfast in an amazing location on the main square, consider Hotel Wentzl.

Santorini, Greece

By Kerry from Vegg Travel

Santorini, the iconic volcanic Greek island, is stunning and one of the best places to visit in May in Europe.

There are several “must do’s” to add to your  Santorini Itinerary . First, catch the beautiful sunset over the Caldera. While the town of Oia is the most famous place to watch this with the pretty houses and blue dome churches, it is usually horribly overcrowded. Visiting in May means you’ve got a much better chance of seeing the sunset in peace.

Second, take a boat trip to the volcanic crater and hot springs in the middle of the ocean and learn about how this intriguing island was formed.

Third, visit one of the stunning black sand beaches in Santorini .

Finally, take a journey to the Akrotiri lighthouse on the southern tip of the island for incredible views. The drive is spectacular. You go through traditional Greek villages and pass several of the famous beaches – Red beach and White beach – tempting you to stop and lounge the day away.

Santorini isn’t a cheap island and staying anywhere with a Caldera view can be expensive. Visiting slightly out of season means that you will get much better prices on accommodation and flights, as well as fewer crowds and less intense summer temperatures.

In May, the weather is beginning to heat up and you can expect an average temperature of around 75 degrees Fahrenheit. You don’t even need to worry too much about rain as on average Santorini only has 3 days of rain in the whole month of May.

There is only one airport on the island and it’s easy to organise transfers, pick up taxis or rent a car to your hotel. Santorini is small, so you won’t spend longer than an hour driving from the airport to the other side of the island.

Kerry says, “Consider staying in Imerovigli which has some of the best sunset views in the island and which is relatively central for easy travel around the island. The Regina Mare adults only hotel has beautiful modern rooms, a great pool, top room delivered breakfast and fantastic staff.”

Berlin, Germany

By Ali from Berlin Travel Tips

Berlin really starts coming back to life in the spring, so May is one of the best months to visit this exciting European city. The weather is finally getting warm but usually isn’t too hot yet. This is important in a city with very little air conditioning!

Berlin is gorgeous in May, and early in the month you can see cherry blossom trees around the city. One of the best places for cherry blossoms is the park near the Lichterfelde Süd Sbahn station where tons of them were planted along the former border between West Berlin and East Germany. If you want a place a little closer to the center of the city, check out the areas near Mauerpark and near the Bornholmer Str Sbahn station.

Since it’s shoulder season, you can visit the places on your  Berlin bucket list  without crowds. The weather in May means you should have a pleasant time doing so.

Check out the TV Tower which gives you great views of the city from above. Then wander west to Museum Island, a Unesco World Heritage Site, where some of the most important museums in Berlin are located. The Berlin Cathedral is also located here. It’s still a functioning church, but you can take a tour and climb to the top for great views.

Next check out Brandenburg Gate (one of the famous landmarks in Germany ), which once stood at the border between East and West Berlin. Today it symbolizes unity. Beyond the gate is Tiergarten Park where spring bloom will be in full force for your spring trip to Europe.

The temperatures in May are often in the 60s during the day and 50s or a bit lower at night. You’ll get plenty of sunny days, but come prepared for the possibility of rain .

The BER airport is located about 16 miles from central Berlin. Since public transportation is extensive and easy to use, your best option is to take the train. The airport express train (FEX) and the regional trains RB14 and RE7 reach several stations in central Berlin in 20-40 minutes.

Ali says, “The 25Hours Hotel in Charlottenburg overlooks the Berlin Zoo. Its 10th floor bar is called Monkey Bar and is a popular spot for a cocktail because of the gorgeous views.”

Budva, Montenegro

By Anya from The Road Is Calling

Budva is known as a  beach holiday destination . However, to experience the cultural and scenic side of Budva with fewer crowds, the best time to take your trip is in May.

It is the most popular location in Montenegro for the impeccable purity of the water and gorgeous beaches. In addition, it has a well-thought-out and well-developed tourist infrastructure.

Here, you’ll find absolutely everything you need for a full and interesting vacation – an 11-km wide coastline made up of sand and pebbles, many hotels and villas for every budget, an abundance of restaurants, bars and entertainment venues, sports centers, and quirky shops. At the same time, this city has its own Old Town with medieval charm.

In addition, Budva is a fantastic home base to explore the entire country at your own pace. There are many road trips that start there and in May, you can avoid the traffic on local roads that sometimes clogs the streets.

Consider driving 30 minutes to Kotor to see the old medieval town totally surrounded by fortified walls. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is filled with winding cobblestone paths, medieval architecture and historic monuments.

Alternatively, drive 50 minutes to Lake Skadar National Park , a stunning lake shared by Montenegro and Albania. It is the largest lake in Southern Europe with the largest bird reserve in Europe.

Take a boat from Budva or Kotor and explore the Bay of Kotor with incredible fjords, and sunbathe. At the end of May, when the sea temperature is around 68F degrees, you can even swim. 

You can rent a car and do all of these road trips on your own. For the best rates in Europe, visit Discovercars.com . However, many of the roads in Montenegro are narrow with lots of treacherous turns. We chose to hire guides and book tours. For a selection of some of the best experiences, please click here .

The average daytime temperature in Budva in May is usually 75F degrees (although in the second part of the month it can even reach 86F) and at night it drops to 50-55F.

The best way to reach Budva is by car or public bus from Podgorica or Tivat. Both these cities have international airports and accept visitors on a daily basis. Since Montenegro is a very small country, distances are very short too. It takes only 1 hour to drive from Podgorica and half an hour to reach Budva from Tivat.

Anya says, “As for the hotel, a 5-star Dukley Hotel & Resort is one of the best places to stay. It is located in a secluded area in Budva, overlooking the sea. Its private sandy beach is only 1 minute away.”

Scottish Highlands, Scotland

By Krix from Travel Hacker Girl

The Scottish Highlands are any nature lover’s paradise. It’s wild landscapes, majestic scenery, picturesque fishing villages and medieval castles will take your breath away. It is one of the best places in Europe for a May getaway.

The Highlands are known worldwide for their whisky distilleries. There are 47 to be exact, so you have plenty of choices. Most of them offer tours , where the guides are on hand to walk you through the intricacies of whisky making. They even give you tasters. Strathearn Distillery, Glen Ord Distillery and Edradour Distilleryare are just a few good examples of Scottish Distilleries offering informative tours.

Of course, there is no trip to the Highlands without visiting a medieval castle. Urquhart Castle has a visitor centre and the tower offers great views of Loch Ness and the surrounding area. Alternatively, you can go for a boat ride to search for the famous Nessie Monster.

May is the best time to visit the Scottish Highlands as you are more likely to encounter the best weather conditions Scotland has to offer. In addition, in spring, you will be able to avoid the nasty midges. They are tiny flying insects that bite and appear from June-August.

Because wild camping is legal in Scotland a lot of people rent a camper van and tour. Spaceships is a good company with several motorhomes. Just make sure to pack your  wild camping equipment as you can also stay at regular campsites along the way.

Scotland is not exactly famous for its sunny weather. As the old saying goes, ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only the wrong clothes!’ So be prepared for some rain and cool temperatures ranging from 45°F to 55°F during May.

Fly into Edinburgh or Inverness Airport, rent a car , and begin your adventure.

Florence, Italy

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

The perfect time to travel to the idyllic city of Florence is in May. The weather is lovely and there are also a lot of festivals that take place in the city. This includes May Day celebration on the first of the month to the month-long arts and music festival, Maggio Musicale Fiorentino.

Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe in one of the best countries in Europe . It is one of the best vacation spots in Europe in May and has been named one of the world’s best places to live by Lonely Planet, CNN, and Forbes.

There are plenty of  things to do in Florence  including enjoying beautiful art and architecture, and delicious food and wine.

Art lovers should tour famous museums like the Uffizi Gallery, Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, Palazzo Pitti, Galleria degli Uffizi, and others. The famous David by Michelangelo is found in the Accademia Gallery. Many of these museums and art galleries are stunningly beautiful themselves.

In addition, as you walk around the city , you will easily stumble upon beautiful churches that you can explore like San Lorenzo, Santa Croce, Santissima Annunziata, and more.

If you want to experience real Italian life, you should go to Mercato Centrale. It dates back to when Florence was the capital of Italy in the late 19th century. You’ll find a wide array of food – including handmade pasta and cheeses. While the food is at the center of the market, you will also hear Italian music playing and artwork on display throughout the market. 

In May, the temperatures are warm, around mid-to-high 60’s Fahrenheit, and the crowds are minimal.

Most people visit Florence by flying into Florence Airport only a couple miles outside of town. Alternatively, you can fly into Pisa International Airport or Fiumicino Airport in Rome, pick up a rental car or take the train to Florence.

Pamela says, “Since you’ll be exploring a lot of the city, your accommodation should be in a great location. The Hotel Bigallo is located across the street from the breathtaking Basilica, right in the center of Florence.”

Korcula Island, Croatia

By Martina from Places Of Juma

Korcula Island in Croatia  is definitely one of the most beautiful and worthwhile places to take a holiday in Europe, especially in May. Most visitors come from June to August to spend their summer vacations . However, in May, you will experience a quiet atmosphere. You will find breathtaking beaches and natural bays, and enchanting villages and old towns. Accommodation is also much cheaper than summer. The absolute highlight is Korcula town with its historic fortified old town that is on the Unesco World Heritage List. Visitors love its medieval charm. Thanks to its walls and towers, it is often referred to as “little Dubrovnik”.

In addition, there are lots of beautiful beaches, another reason why Korcula Island is so special in Europe. From sandy beaches to pebbly coves and rocky beaches, there is a wide range of places to explore and swim. From the end of April-beginning of May, you can already have great beach days

Korcula is a true paradise for those who want to feel the warmth of the sun and the lovely waters in the Adriatic Sea.

In May, the weather is lovely at approximately 73F.

Korcula Island is located in the Dalmatia region and can be easily reached by ferry from Split on the mainland. From the airport Zračna luka Split-Kaštela, you take a bus or taxi to the Split Ferry Port (35 minutes) and then a ferry to the island (3 hours).

Best Places To Stay

Martina says, “One of the most beautiful resorts on the island is Lumbarda, a pretty vacation resort for wine lovers. On the sandy hills above the sea, some of the best wines on Korcula are produced there.

Another option is Tara’s Lodge Hotel directly on the beach and with a beautiful outdoor pool.”

Valletta, Malta

By Ben From Ticket 4 Two Please

Valletta, the European Union’s smallest capital city, may be small in size, but it is vast in culture and history. 

With approximately 2 million tourists visiting the Maltese islands every year, it is important to arrive in the country at a time when you are going to get the most from it. For this, visiting Valletta in May is a great option. It is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May.

There are several must-see places to enjoy in Europe’s 2018 Capital of Culture, but you should start in the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Twice daily (Midday and 4pm) throughout May, the Saluting Battery tradition of greeting international shipping vessels is upheld. A single cannon is fired across the harbour to offer a uniquely Maltese welcome. It makes for an excellent introduction to Maltese life. 

As Valletta is less than 1km wide and only 1.5km long, it is fairly easy to explore the entire city on foot . In May, the temperatures won’t be too high so you will be able to navigate the cobbled, steep city streets without getting too hot and tired.

Start your walk at the top of Valletta at the New City Gate and head down towards Fort St Elmo on the coast. This route will take you past many of Valletta’s architectural highlights. 

Finally, you wouldn’t be paying a true visit to the Maltese archipelago without heading out to sea. There are numerous daily boat excursions setting sail from Valletta that take you out to the stunning Blue Lagoon.

In May, the weather is calm enough to enjoy the sail over to the Island of Comino, but without the multitude of boats that make the journey in July and August. 

Valletta is one of the forgotten places to visit in Europe and May is the best time to take advantage of this.

The average temperature for Malta in May is around 77 Fahrenheit. Accordingly, you will be able to experience the famous Mediterranean warmth without it being too hot to explore.

However, your packing list for Malta and Gozo should always include something to keep you warm in the cooler evenings. 

Luqa International Airport is the only airport that serves the Maltese Islands. From the airport, it is a 20-minute drive to the centre of Valletta.

A well populated taxi-stand and several bus options make it relatively simple to get to the heart of Valletta from the airport. 

San Sebastian, Spain

By Kat From Biker Girl Life

If you’re looking for one of the best cities to visit in Europe in May, then head to San Sebastien in Spain . 

This vibrant city is wonderful in May. It’s the perfect weather to explore the city, full of small winding streets, great bars, jazz music, fashionable shops and jazz – lots and lots of jazz! There are also some wonderful beaches and great hikes in the area.

One of the best things about visiting in May is the Olatu-Talka Festival, which usually takes place the last weekend in May. This local festival was started in 2010 as a way for the city to become a European Cultural Capital.  

The festival was such a success that the locals decided to make it an annual event (and the city is now a Capital of European Culture)!

Each year, the format of the festival changes. People send their suggestions and ideas to the organisers, who then choose the best ones. Concerts, workshops, markets and local fairs are set up across the city. Locals are encouraged to take part and showcase any hidden talents- it’s a fun atmosphere and there’s so much to see over the weekend.

Whilst you’re in the area, be sure to catch the funicular cable car on Ondarreta beach. You can go up to the top of Mount Igueldo, where you can enjoy fantastic views over the harbour, the town and the Bay of Biscay. There’s also an amusement park with a roller coaster, water rides and bumper cars.

For surfing and beautiful beaches, head to La Zurriola right in the heart of San Sebastian. Alternatively, try Mundaka just along the coast, which holds international surfing competitions. 

Lastly, don’t miss the chance to wander around the historic old town , Parte Vieja.

If you’re  motorcycling in Spain , you can take advantage of the free parking. There are plenty of narrow cobblestone streets, tapas bars, restaurants, shops, churches and galleries to explore.

San Sebastian is lovely in May, with an average temperatures of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and around 13 hours of sunshine each day.

The nearest airport is Biarritz Pays Basque Airport, only 20 miles (32 km) from the city. Bilbao is also quite close, at just 72 miles (117 km).

Kat says, “Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra is an excellent choice which is right on the seafront.”

Prague, Czech Republic

By Samantha from The Wandering Wanderluster

The month of May is a wonderful month for a European holiday. Prague, in the Czech Republic is a beautiful city and one of the best places to explore in Europe in May when the city is in full spring bloom.

Peak tourist season begins in June, so by visiting in May you’ll not only benefit from shoulder season hotel and flight prices but comfortable temperatures. It is an ideal time for strolling around the city in a light jacket and taking in the sights with fewer crowds. 

In addition, there is so much to see and do in Prague .

May is known as the most romantic month of the year in the Czech Republic. On the 1st of May, couples celebrate the Czech version of Valentine’s Day. It is tradition to kiss for good luck under a blossoming cherry tree.

While the  spring cherry blossoms in Prague  typically bloom in March and April, it is not unusual to see the trees across Petrin Hill and in many of the parks still flourishing in early May. 

May also marks the beginning of the festival season, when many of the bars and restaurants officially open their outdoor seating areas. Enjoy a gastronomical experience while appreciating the spired skyline from a rooftop bar or Villa Richter’s terrace amongst the growing vines.

Take a shopping trip to a local farmers market along the river at Náplavka, a place where many food and family friendly festivals are often held throughout the month. 

Beer lovers will want to schedule their trip to coincide with the annual Czech beer festival that takes place in mid-May in Letna Park. It is a unique opportunity to try a variety of different beers from a number of breweries from all over the Czech Republic under one tent.

If you miss the festival, then hop into a warm beer bath with your friends or loved ones! With unlimited beer and a massage , it is an amazing way to spend an hour or two.

In May, expect temperatures in the mid 60s.

It is only a 30 minute drive from the airport to the center of Prague.

Samantha says, “Stay at the newly renovated Mosaic House Design Hotel to enjoy not only a comfortable and stylish stay but a central location. It is just minutes walk from top sights including the Dancing House, Náplavka River Side, and Nove Mesto shopping districy. In addition, it is a 10 minute walk to historic sights including the Old Town Square and Charles Bridge.”

Dijon, France

By Leyla from Women On The Road

Dijon is a stunning city with beautiful architecture and captivating history on every street. It is one of the best cities to visit in May in Europe.

The most delightful thing to do in Dijon is follow the  Dijon Owl’s Trail , a marked city route designed to guide you to its most worthwhile attractions. There are many including the architectural complex of the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy. Consider sauntering along the winding cobblestoned streets and admire its half-timbered houses. A free shuttle bus will ferry you if your feet need a break.

An equally lovely stop is Les Halles, the city’s covered market (it is also one of the stops marked along the Owl’s Trail). The market has quite a history: it was almost razed in that crazy wave of “modernization” that hit many cities during the 1970s. Rather than ending up as a parking lot, it was listed as a National Monument and saved.

Dijon is known for its food so take a tour and discover local specialties to sample in the market, including great cheeses and meats. Grab a selection and head out to the Darcy Gardens for a picnic.

Dijon is also beautiful from above, and you’ll get a wonderful sense of it by climbing the 15 th -century Philippe le Bon tower – all 316 steps of it. The tower itself is relatively plain, although several small statues dot the walls as you go up. You can stop and admire them while catching your breath.

Once you reach the top, you will feel the beautiful spring air. You will also see vibrant colors, such as the red roofs that stand out distinctly among the dozens of churches and manor houses, a reminder that Dijon was once the capital of Burgundy.

Two wonderful festivals take place in May within an hour’s drive of Dijon: Les Montgolfiades, a three-day hot air balloon extravaganza in Chalon-sur-Saône, and the Medieval Festival in Semur-en-Auxois, a pretty medieval town.

Despite the exciting attractions outside the city in May, Dijon will be difficult to leave.

In May, it is sunny at least a third of the time, with average temperatures of 63°F, although it can get distinctly warmer. The weather is perfect for walking around – which you’ll do a lot of in Dijon – but without the hordes of tourists that will ultimately descended upon the city in the summer.

Most people who arrive by air land in Paris or Lyon (two hours by train to Dijon) or Geneva, Switzerland, which takes a little longer.

Leyla says, “Vertigo Hotel is a cool, modern and very offbeat hotel right near the Porte Guillaume, a stone’s throw from the old town.”

Budapest, Hungary

By Kat from World Wide Honeymoon

Budapest is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. It is shoulder season which means you’ll face fewer tourists in the popular spots in the city, and hotel prices will likely be far lower than peak season. Also, the weather is a pleasant compromise between the cold winters and hot summers the city often sees.

Something you’ll have to do during a trip to Budapest is visit the bathhouses. These natural thermal baths are all over the city. They are the perfect thing to do whether you want to relax mid-day or party it up at night.

Szechenyi Baths is easily the most popular and largest bathhouse in the city with ornate neo-Baroque architecture. Gellert is also very popular, and for a fun rooftop hot tub, visit Rudas Baths. 

You’ll also want to walk across the Chain Bridge and wander up to Fisherman’s Bastion on the Buda side of the Danube River. This scenic walk offers stunning views of the city.

To wrap up a perfect day in Budapest, you should catch a stunning sunset while taking a boat cruise on the Danube river . Watch as the Hungarian Parliament Building and Fisherman’s Bastion light up and twinkle in the evening.

Budapest has quite a few festivals during the month of May that are fun to attend like the Gourmet Festival Budapest celebrating Hungarian food. In addition, Budapest Folk Fest is a four day festival dedicated to Hungarian folklore heritage.

Budapest is easily a must-visit destination for any European vacation, but in May, it is one of the best times to go.

With average temperatures hovering around 68-70ºF during the day and 50-57ºF at night, you’ll enjoy walking around the city in May.

This central European city is also easy to reach thanks to the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. It is only 30 minutes from downtown by car or public transport. 

Kat says, “For a fantastic stay in Budapest, the Continental Hotel Budapest has gorgeous rooms, a rooftop pool and terrace, and beautiful architecture.”

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

By Anne from Packing Light Travel

One of the best getaways in Europe in May is the Unesco listed Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. Water levels are at their highest, trees flaunt a variety of rich green hues, and spring-blooming plants add complementary colours to the landscape. Daytime temperatures make it very pleasant for hiking the many trails crisscrossing the park. In addition, there are fewer visitors compared to the busier summer months.

The distances from Zagreb or Split make a day trip possible, especially on a tour , but the National Park is best appreciated with a two-day visit if you can manage the time.

You can explore the higher trails that offer stunning views and hike the more popular boardwalks and trails before and after day trippers arrive and depart. It also allows you to enter when the park opens and stay until it closes, with opportunities to photograph in various shades of light. There are 22 kilometres of trails throughout the lake system and an additional 36 kilometres of hiking trails.

One-day and two-day tickets are available online or at park entrances. During busier periods, online tickets may be sold out and therefore, not available at the entrances. The admission price includes transportation on the panoramic train and the electric boat on Lake Kozjak.

In May, daytime temperatures hover around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Two international airports place travellers within easy reach of the National Park. Pick up a rental car and drive 87 miles (140-kilometres) from Zagreb airport or 132 miles (213-kilometres) from Split airport.

Anne says, “Having a vehicle makes it easier to enjoy the local hospitality and home-cooked meals offered by the many private accommodation providers located outside the Park.

However, there are four hotels within the Park, so this is another option, along with Borje Camp that opens in May for the season.”

Hamburg, Germany

By Jordan from Hamburg And Beyond

After a cold and wet winter, Hamburg comes alive again in May and is one of the best places in Europe for a late spring trip.

Located in Northern Germany, this port city celebrates its birthday with a big boat parade in early May. Over 830 years old, “Hafengeburtstag” or “Harbor Birthday”is a giant festival along the Elbe River that includes over 1 million spectators and 300 ships. Besides the parade of ships, there’s live music, traditional Northern German food like fish sandwiches and beer, and a wide array of entertainment options.

There’s so much more to Hamburg in May than just Hafensgeburtstag. Rising high above the Elbe River, make sure to go up to the Elbphilharmonie’s viewing platform. This state-of-the-art concert hall in the shape of a wave offers unparalleled views of the river and the entire city. You can also take a tour of this impressive concert hall .

If you’re musically inclined, try to catch a performance. The tickets are reasonably priced and the musical acts include world-class performers.

Head out to the Speicherstadt, the old warehouse district in Hamburg and a  UNESCO World Heritage Site in Germany .  With the old cobblestone streets and brick buildings, it’s photogenic and filled with cute cafes and outdoor restaurants. 

While the dreary winter weather is over by May, there still might be a bit of a chill in the air. The average temperature is around 60 F and you may get the occasional rain shower.

If flying into the city, Hamburg Airport is a short 20-minute train ride from the city center. It is also reasonably well-connected to other European destinations. However, if coming from another continent, it’s easiest to connect to Hamburg through London , Amsterdam, Paris, or Frankfurt.

Jordan says, “If you feel like splurging, book a room inside the Elbphilharmonie at The Westin hotel for a luxurious experience.”

Larnaca , Cyprus

By Ciara from Wellness Travel Diaries

Anytime of year, the beautiful island of Cyprus welcomes visitors and locals to embrace its magnificent sunshine. It offers gorgeous coastlines, a ghost town, vibrant beaches, and ruins.

However, if you’re looking for one of the best holiday destinations in Europe in May, taking a  road trip through Cyprus  to visit the magnificent beach city of Larnaca is a must.

In May, Larnaca’s weather is absolutely stunning. There are few tourists because the island only begins to open up from the winter season in May. Car rentals are also cheaper than summer making it even more affordable to effortlessly travel around the city and Cyprus.

In Larnaca, you’ll find a delightful beachfront promenade packed with tasty eateries, and shops right across from the beach. There’s vegan food, gluten-free choices, fresh seafood and more. Stay in this area to explore the Medieval Castle that sits right on the water. Climb to the top for a scenic view of the beach and promenade.

Wander to the heart of the city to experience even more of the city. Here you’ll find museums and shops.

Considering taking a day trip to the famous Cape Greco — a National Park. You will be able to witness lush wilderness, cliffs and bask in the incredible views of the clear blue seas.

During the month of May, Larnaca offers sunshine, warmth, and temperatures around 80 degrees.

Fly into Larnaca International Airport — the biggest airport in the country. You are only a few minutes away from the center of Larnaca.

Ciara says, “In the heart of the city, you will find the Josephine Boutique Hotel. It’s the perfect destination for city dwellers looking for beachy vibes.

If you’re craving a hotel closer to the water, head over to the Napa Mermaid Hotel & Suite. It’s not in Larnaca, but it’s a quick drive to town.

Vilnius, Lithuania

By Helen from Helen On Her Holidays

Vilnius is the capital of Lithuania and one of the best vacation spots in Europe for a May getaway. In May, the city comes back to life after the long Baltic winter. Everyone is outside enjoying the first warm days of summer and the skies are filled with hot air balloons.

Start your adventure by taking a hot air balloon ride over Vilnius to appreciate this beautiful city with a gorgeous old town and lots to do. At one end of the old town, you’ll find Cathedral Square. The cathedral itself is breathtaking – a classical, bright white wedding cake of a building with a separate tower. In front of the tower there’s a “miracle stone”. Close your eyes and spin around three times while making a wish and it is sure to be granted.

Vilnius Cathedral is watched over by Gediminas Tower, which is the only remaining part of Vilnius’s castle. There are great views across the city from the tower.

No  visit to Vilnius  is complete without a visit to the Republic of Užupis. Užupis is an area of Vilnius which declared itself independent in 1997. The tiny nation has its own flag and constitution. The constitution is displayed on a wall near the centre of Užupis and is well worth a read.

Street Music Day is an annual event which takes place each May. From around lunchtime until late evening, seemingly every street corner in the city centre becomes its own concert venue. The range and quality of performers is astounding – walking down central Pilies Street, you can see folk musicians playing traditional instruments, rock bands, jazz bands and acoustic singer-songwriters. It’s a really magical and joyful sight.

In May, the average high is a very pleasant 64 degrees Fahrenheit.

Getting to Vilnius is easy. The city has a very convenient airport just 3.5 miles (6 km) from the city centre. Buses and trains link the two.

Helen says, “Hotels are generally very reasonably priced, but the Artagonist Art Hotel is a particularly good choice for its central location, quirky, artist-decorated rooms and fantastic breakfast.”

Yorkshire, England

By Sinead from York With Kids

Yorkshire is one of the best destinations to visit in Europe in May as lighter, warmer days are ideal for exploring all the outdoor attractions Yorkshire has to offer.

In the Yorkshire Dales, visit the 230-foot-high natural stone amphitheatre, Malham Cove and enjoy local walks to Gordale Scar gorge, Janet’s Foss waterfall and Malham Tarn (Yorkshire dialect for a lake).

May will see Yorkshire’s waterfalls in peak flow so make a stop at Aysgarth Falls and Hardraw Force, England’s highest single drop waterfall.

May is also the peak month for wildflowers at Muker in the northern Dales. Visitors can walk on specially laid paths that wind through seven meadows awash with colourful wildflowers.

For a change of pace, visit the vibrant  City of York,  famous for its cobbled streets, Georgian and Victorian architecture and Viking history. Tour York Minster, the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe or explore one of the city’s museums such as the Jorvik Centre or York Castle Museum.

For a special treat, walk York’s medieval era walls, the longest city walls in England, the slopes of which are bathed in pink cherry blossoms in May.  

In May, you can expect pleasantly warm sunny days (with an average temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit) though pack some wet weather gear for occasional spring rain showers.

Visitors can fly into Leeds Bradford International Airport and pick up a rental car . It is a 1 ½ hour drive from the heart of the Yorkshire Dales and just 1 hour by car to the City of York.

Sinead says, “In the Yorkshire Dales, The Lister Arms in rural Malham offers a cosy, country stay. In York, Dean Court Hotel has an unbeatable location tucked inside the city walls directly opposite York Minster.”

Vienna, Austria

By Anca from Dream Book And Travel

Austria’s capital is famous worldwide for its classical music, coffee and cafe culture, its rich history, grand architecture and gourmet traditions. In May, Vienna is also one of the best European holiday destinations.

First of all, the fine weather allows you to enjoy the city’s best activities. Those include outdoor seating at restaurants and cafes, visiting lively parks and beer gardens, taking a horse-drawn carriage ride , having fun at the Prater (an amusement park) or cruising along the Danube . 

Secondly, the Wiener Festwochen (festive days of the city) is held which is meant to kick-start the tourist season. A contemporary art festival dating back to the 1950s, the Wiener Festwochen combines theatre, dance, music, fine arts, installation, workshops, and new art forms to illustrate the complexity, globalization and individualization of artistic discourse.

Outdoor and indoor venues across the city host these events, allowing you to not only experience locations otherwise not included in typical tourist itineraries but also to mingle with locals who thoroughly enjoy this festival.

For those who prefer the more classical arts, concert venues and opera houses are still open before the final curtain falls for the summer break at the end of June.

In addition, you can experience the Viennese cultural scene authentically before all venues switch to touristy productions for the summer season.

Vienna is a particularly well suited destination for a spring getaway. With an average temperature of about 16.5C (61.7F), the month of May is the best time to visit Vienna .

Most days are sunny and pleasant during this time but do bring warm clothes. Occasionally, there are windy, cold, and rainy streaks that last for a couple of days.

Vienna is easily reachable from around the world through its first-class international airport. There is excellent public transport that connects it to the city center (about 12.5 miles or 20 km)

Anca says, “If you are looking for amazing and atmospheric hotels close to the city center, we recommend Hotel Stefanie, Vienna’s oldest hotel. Alternatively, consider Hotel Beethoven Vienna, located close to the famous Naschmarkt, the city’s most celebrated market. 

Marbella, Spain

By Cristina from My Little World Of Travelling

Located in Southern Spain, Marbella is one of the most visited towns in the Costa del Sol and one of the best beach destinations to visit on a European trip in May. You will enjoy fewer crowds, as July and August are the busiest months, and the weather allows you to enjoy the beaches and explore. 

There are many things to do in Marbella – from relaxing on the beautiful beaches to exploring its Old Town where you will find Plaza de Los Naranjos, a lovely square surrounded by restaurants and cafes. 

From this square, there are narrow whitewashed streets that take you to beautiful little corners and Nerja’s church. Carmen street is a must-see where you will see blue plant pots with bright flowers hanging on the wall and an incredible view of the church. 

Other great activities include going on tapas tours to try the local cuisine such as “pescaito frito” (fried fish) and walking along the lively beach promenade.

In May, the average highest temperature is 75ºF and the lowest is 57ºF. There are barely any rainy days. 

The nearest airport to Marbella is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport which is about a 45-minute drive by car or bus.  Consider renting a car to not only explore Marbella, but also other beautiful beaches along the Costa del Sol.

Cristina says, “If you’re looking for where to stay in Marbella, there is a good variety of accommodation, so it really depends on your preferences. For a unique and cosy experience, stay at The Pearl Luxury B&B, located in the laid-back area of Las Chapas.”

St. Petersburg, Russia

By Anna from Travel Cultura

In the calendar, May holds the last days of spring. However, in St Petersburg, May is only the beginning of spring when warm weather finally arrives, trees turn green, and flowers start to bloom.

May is also the beginning of the “season of white nights”. It is the multi-month period ending in August when the sun almost never sets because of its proximity to the Arctic Circle. For these reasons and more, St. Petersburg is one of the best European cities to spend time in May.

One of the best things to do in St. Petersburg is to wander in the historic centre of the city and explore   the landmarks of Saint Petersburg – the Winter Palace, Palace Square, Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood, the Summer Garden, the Bronze Horseman, and others. You may also want to take a boat tour on rivers and channels and see the best of Saint Petersburg from the water.

Cultural life in Saint Petersburg is always vivid, but in May, many events take place outdoors. The Labour Day demonstrations are held on May 1. May 9 is another important date for all Russians as it is the Day of Victory in World War II. In addition, on May 27, Saint Petersburg celebrates its birthday.

Each of these holidays is joyful for locals of and visitors to the city. There are outdoor concerts, exhibitions, and fireworks in the evening. There is even a Victory Parade on Nevsky Prospect and Palace Square.

The weather in May evolves significantly. There is snow at the beginning then hits +68 o F (+20°C) by the end of the month. But whenever you plan to visit Saint Petersburg in May, bring layers, and a wind and waterproof jacket.

Anna says, “To fully enjoy your stay in Saint Petersburg, opt for a hotel in the centre of the city. One of the best options is Moika Kempinski which is situated in the heart of Saint Petersburg. You will be close to all the main sights of the city.

Altlernatively, check Akyan Hotel which is smaller and cosier (and has a great location too!)”

Cannes, France

By Kat from Wandering Bird Motorhome Adventures

If you’re looking for somewhere spectacular to visit in May, head to Cannes and the French Riviera. It is one of the best beach destinations to visit in May in Europe.

This incredible stretch of coastline is one of the most famous in Europe and boasts beautiful beaches, wonderful weather and marinas with some of the biggest super yachts you’ve ever seen.

Most people come to the area to soak up the sunshine but, if you visit in May, you can spend most of your time looking for celebrities. May is when the Cannes Film Festival runs and it’s not uncommon to see actors, producers and other famous faces from the movie industry strolling down the streets.

The film festival is held at the Palais des Festivales and the red carpet is left out most of the year, so if you visit when the festival isn’t on, you can still get a fabulous photo of yourself on it! 

The main place to go to star spot is La Croisette- a beach and promenade where everyone goes to ‘be seen’. You’ll pay top price for a hotel here (with private beach) but if you want to be in the action, this is the place to be. 

Don’t miss a day trip to the Lerins Islands (particularly Île Sainte-Marguerite) just off the Azur Coast. There are a group of 4 pristine islands, each with their own character. In May, it’s not too busy so you can see them at their best. 

And, for food lovers, the covered market of Marché Forville is unmissable; it’s full of delicious local produce and fresh seafood. 

In May, the weather averages around 68 degrees Fahrenheit and you’re more likely to get sunshine than not.

The closest international airport for most tourists is Nice but if you have the money or private jet, you can fly into the small airstrip at Cannes itself.

If you’re  motorhoming in France , remember that it’s illegal to park on the seafront- you’ll need to find a campsite.

Best Place to Stay

Kat says, “Finding nice and inexpensive accommodation in May might be a challenge. However, take a look at Hôtel des Orangers. It is close to the beach.”

Antwerp, Belgium

By Missy from Travels With Missy

Antwerp, Belgium is one of those rare undiscovered gems of a city. Not many people know of it or bypass it for other more popular destinations in Belgium, such as Bruges or Brussels. But this city sparkles in comparison to its neighbouring touristy cities and will reward visitors with dazzling architecture, fantastic shopping and compactness.

May is one of the best months to travel to Antwerp. After a long grey winter, May is when the city begins to shine again. The beer gardens and terraces come alive, the flowers are blooming and the weather really warms up as the month draws to a close. The bus loads of tourists haven’t arrived and the city is at its most beautiful. 

Antwerp makes a fantastic city break with excellent museums. The Red Star Line Museum focuses on the role Antwerp Port played with European emigration during the late 19th century. Its interactive displays and heartbreaking stories will leave you astounded at the lengths people went to make America their new home. 

Located just off the shopping street, Meir, you will find the former home of Peter Paul Rubens. Rubens was Antwerps most famous resident in the 16th century and used his home as a studio as well as living quarters. The recent refurbishment of Rubens’ former gardens is an incredible way to spend an afternoon. 

The end of May marks the beginning of the “summer bars” in Antwerp. Set up across the city, you will find ‘Zommerbars’ pop up along the river Scheldt or in nooks and crannies around the city. The locations change from year to year, but you can find staples such as Bar Chapel returning each year. The summer bars are fantastic places to grab a drink and indulge in artisanal beers and food. 

You can expect warm weather, reaching the 80s as the month draws to a close.

Most visitors will arrive by train to Antwerp Centraal Station, voted one of Europe’s most beautiful train stations. With easy connections from Brussels and Amsterdam, you can connect via Brussel Zaventem Airport or Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport and catch a direct train from both airports to Antwerp.

Missy says, “Hilton Antwerp is located in the heart of the old town and is a wonderful base for those who want proximity to great restaurants, bars and culture. Located underneath the spire of the Antwerp Cathedral, the Hilton Antwerp is a 4 star hotel and is a short tram ride from Antwerp Centraal Station.”

Palmero, Sicily

By Erin from Pina Travels

Being the most southern point in Italy, Sicily is known for being super hot throughout summer. This is why Palmero is one of the best cities to visit in Europe in May. You will enjoy beautiful weather and it is just the start of tourist season. In addition, there are less crowds in the city, making for a more relaxing trip.

May is also when the Settimana delle Cultura is held. It’s an annual week-long festival that highlights cultural activities, concerts, exhibitions and much more.

While visiting this historic city, be sure to visit Palermo’s famous architectural sites. Quattro Canti, a Baroque square that was built in the early 1600s, is in the centre of the city. This square is at the intersection of two streets, and on each corner is a facade that features an in-built fountain and statue of a patron saint.

From there, it’s a short walk to Fontana della Vergogna. This beautiful fountain was built in Florence, and then transferred to Palermo in 1574.

Another essential spot to visit is the Palermo Cathedral, which was built in 1184. For just a few euros, you can climb several steep flights of stairs to the roof of the cathedral, where you’ll take in gorgeous views of the city.

And of course, you can’t visit Palermo without trying some of the region’s local cuisine. Take food tour and head to one of Palermo’s many food markets, and be sure to try Sicilian dishes like Pasta con Le Sarde, arancini, cannoli, and granita.

Throughout May, the temperature is in the 70s, and the sun is shining with very little rain.

To reach Palermo, fly into Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO), also known simply as “Palermo Airport.” Once you land, it’s an easy 45 minute drive by rental car or taxi from the airport to the city centre.

Erin says, “There are plenty of reasonably priced accommodations to choose from, like the Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa.”

If you wish to spend an extended time in Sicily, one of the most beautiful places in the world, take a look at our 12 day road trip in Sicily . We almost circumvented the whole island during our time there and loved every spot, including Palermo. We visited in October so our experiences would be similar to going in May in terms of temperature and crowds.

Seville, Spain

By Sophie and Adam from We Dream Of Travel

Located in the Andalusia region of southern Spain, Seville is easily one of the best cities in Spain and Europe in May. Expect warm weather, beautiful architecture, lavish gardens, and a festive atmosphere.

The balmy temperatures make it ideal for  spending a few days in Seville , exploring the city, discovering more about its rich history and opulent palaces, meandering through its many exotic gardens, and indulging in tapas in open plazas.  

One of the main highlights of Seville is Real Alcázar. Perhaps the most iconic site in Seville, Alcázar was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. It is the oldest royal residence in Europe that is still in use and contains over a millennia of history. No trip to Seville is complete without taking a tour of the Royal Palace .

From there, take a stroll to Plaza de España. Tucked away at the edge of María Luisa park, this spectacular plaza and surrounding buildings date back to 1928. With its red brick facade and intricately decorated alcoves, it remains one of the most impressive plazas in Spain. The warm weather in May makes it the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon.

Additionally, the beginning of May sees Seville’s most anticipated fiesta of the year; the iconic Feria de Abril. Despite its name, which means “April Fair”, the festival often takes place in early May as it is always two weeks after Semana Santa. During this time, the city comes alive with flamenco dancing, horseback parades, finely dressed “Sevillanas” and an abundance of sherry!

It is worth planning a visit to Seville in May just for this event! 

One of the best things about Seville in May is the perfect weather. At this time of year, Seville has average day time highs in the 70s Fahrenheit (20s Celsius) and only about six days of rain throughout the month. 

For most, the best way to reach Seville will be via plane, although it is also well connected by bus and train. The airport, Aeropuerto de Sevilla-San Pablo, serves both domestic and international flights, and is just a 20-minute drive from the city.

Sophie and Adam say, “To avoid disappointment, ensure you book accommodation in Seville far in advance as May is one of the more popular times to visit. Melia Sevilla is an excellent option. It is ideally located next to María Luisa Park and Plaza de España, in the heart of the April Fair festivities. Plus, if you need a break from all the action, you can relax beside its rooftop pool.”

May is a fantastic time to visit Europe. Typically, there is beautiful weather for exploring and the summer crowds have not yet arrived. In addition, it is shoulder season for most destinations so you should be able to find excellent deals on flights and hotels. One of the biggest problems with traveling in Europe in May will be choosing where to go first. Good luck and safe travels!

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Best Places to Visit in Europe in May 2023

With nature blossoming in a profusion of marvelous colors and fragrances, May is one of the loveliest months in Europe. Many popular European destinations are as stunning as in the summer without being overrun by crowds of tourists.

Besides the pleasant weather and the affordable accommodation prices, many European cities host unique events in May, which can provide visitors with a much more immersive experience than typical sightseeing. If this appeals to you, but you still don’t know where to go to Europe in May, this is a comprehensive list of our top choices.

Table of Contents

Best Places to Go to Europe in May 2023

London, england, for the rhs chelsea flower show.

22nd of May 2023 to 27th of  May 2023

Every year in May, one of London’s most interesting neighborhoods becomes the host of a colorful, world-class event: the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The world’s best garden designers, plant specialists, horticultural experts, and florists combine their boldest and most innovative ideas to create stunning botanical displays on the grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea.

This world-famous gardening event features original garden designs, exhibits of rare, exotic plants, and exuberant floral artworks, which attract around 150,000 visitors each year. Thankfully, you can be one of them.

Besides, a trip to London it’s impossible not to be outstanding, considering the range of sights, landmarks, and events available in one of the world’s most cosmopolitan and eclectic city. From museums and galleries to outdoor markets and hip neighborhoods, London packs all in.

You might want to check how to spend 7 days in London here .

Munich, Germany for the Springfest Frühlingsfest 

21st of April 2023  – 7th of May 2023

If you missed Oktoberfest but you are looking for a similar experience, Munich hosts Frühlingsfest in May. This is a springtime beer festival as fun as Oktoberfest but not as busy or overly touristic. Established in 1965, Frühlingsfest happens on a much smaller scale, with only two large beer tents, whereas the Oktoberfest features fourteen tents.

This is the only major difference, since the spring festival takes place on the same site as Oktoberfest, with the same joyful atmosphere and abundance of fun activities. Needless to say, if you go to Munich in May, you’ll experience the best facet of the Bavarian capital and get the chance to bond with its fun-loving residents.

Outside the festival site, there are plenty of beer gardens to visit where you can sample beer from local breweries. The weather is also lovely so you can spend some time exploring Munich, one of Germany’s most interesting cities, where you can find loads of things to do.  

You might be interested in my 3-day Munich itinerary. 

Cannes, France, for the Cannes International Film Festival

16th of May 2023 – 27th of May 2023

Renowned for being a place of cultural sophistication and artistic refinement, France has no shortage of interesting events, but nothing tops Cannes International Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, taking place every year on the gorgeous city of Cannes, on the French Riviera.

Although most events are invitation-only, visiting Cannes in this period will bring you around the world’s most popular filmmakers, actors, and celebrities from the entertainment industry. Parties, receptions, and screenings will run continuously throughout the city, some accessible to the general public as well.

If you cannot get on the red carpet, don’t worry. There are plenty of things to do in Cannes. The city abounds in natural and cultural attractions, and you can take your pick, from exploring chic historic neighborhoods to relaxing on the stunning beaches.

Oslo, Norway, for Constitution Day

17th of  May 2023

May is an excellent time to visit Norway, not just because the weather is lovely, but also because it is a great time to get a good glimpse into the Norwegian lifestyle by witnessing the National Holiday celebrations. On the 17th of May, Norwegians celebrate the Oslo Constitution Day.

On this date in 1814, Norway was officially declared an independent nation, but the National Holiday is less about nationalism and more about celebrating the country’s unique heritage and culture with an open-air party. The most important moment of this special day is the children’s parade when thousands of Norwegian children take over the streets dressed in traditional folk costumes, accompanied by marching bands.

The spectacular festivity includes people of all ages and the atmosphere is incredibly welcoming and joyful. If you visit Oslo in this period, don’t forget that there are some amazing cultural and architectural sights in the Norwegian capital, including The Viking Ship Museum, the Oslo Opera House, the National Gallery, and the 13th-century Akershus Fortress.  

Gardens of England – stately homes with gardens in Full Bloom

Although England is known for its unpleasant weather, surprisingly, the country is one of the best places to visit in Europe in May. With their centuries-old preoccupation for mastering the art of gardening, the English have some of the finest gardens in Europe and there is no better time to take a tour of the most beautiful English gardens than May.

It’s safe to say that this is the month when flowers are in full bloom and can provide the most colorful backdrop to your photos. Moreover, hundreds of charming historic English gardens are open to the general public.

Designed in varying styles by top horticultural experts, the gardens combine lush landscapes with intoxicating fragrances and vibrant colors. Some of the most famous English gardens are Chelsea Physic Garden, Bodnant Gardens, Buscot Park, and Tresco Abbey Gardens.

Spain for the Camino de Santiago

Camino de Santiago has been a popular pilgrimage since the 9th century. Thousands of pilgrims make the journey on foot or by bicycle today, finding the experience one of the most fulfilling of their lives. Traveling the entirety of the Camino de Santiago from the Pyrenees Mountains to Santiago de Compostela takes around a month, but you are free to walk only the chunks that are most convenient to you.

During the summer months, Camino de Santiago is extremely crowded and scorching hot, so May is one of the best times to go on this popular pilgrimage. You will avoid the crowds yet still get plenty of company on the road.

Plus, wildflowers come out in this period, and the lush vegetation will offer you a respite from the distractions of city life. In May, the picturesque landscapes of Northern Spain are even lovelier than usual, and the weather is also very pleasant.

Bath, England, for the Bath Festival             

12th of May 2023 until the 21st of  May 2023

Due to its preserved Roman heritage, Bath is one of the most unique spots to visit in England, and if you want to explore this charming historic city, it’s best to go in May when the city really comes to life thanks to the Bath Festival.

In 2017, the Bath International Music Festival merged with the Bath Literature Festival, creating this new eclectic hybrid known as the Bath Festival. A wide celebration of music and literature with over 130 events, the festival brings to the stage classical virtuosos, world musicians, and folk and jazz singers, both local and international.

Besides numerous concerts, the program includes film screenings, exhibitions, talks, and dance performances, many of them free. On top of that, Bath in itself is an amazing place, where you can visit the Roman Baths, a historic spa spanning millennia, the medieval Bath Abbey, and other architectural gems.

Check out: Things to do in Bath.

Madeira, Portugal, for the Flower Parade

Apr 27, 2023 – May 21, 2023

Madeira Island, which is a small Portuguese island situated in the North Atlantic Ocean is a perfect destination for any season, but one of the best months to visit is May. This is the month when the island celebrates spring, and its famous, beautiful Flower Festival.

Madeira Island Flower Parade , or Festa da Flor, takes place each spring, and this year the exact dates are April 30th to May 24th. For a couple of weeks, every May, the island looks even more beautiful than ever.

Small towns, as well as the main city – Funchal – are beautifully decorated with flower arrangements. There are concerts, performances, and exhibitions and on one of the main streets of Funchal, you will find a local flower market selling flower bulbs, exotic fruit, and local food and drinks.

The highlight of the festival is, however, the main parade, called Cortejo Alegórico. Local residents, adults and children alike, parade in their carefully prepared flower costumes through the main avenue of Funchal.

They are dancing, singing and presenting their carefully prepared choreographies and amazing parade platforms and installations. The atmosphere is great, and both the spectators as participants are truly enjoying this special event. It is a beautiful and unique experience and it is worth to see it at least in a lifetime.

Athens, Greece 

When considering May holiday destinations in Europe, Athens should be one of your top choices. Since in the summer Athens is unbelievably hot, spring is the best time to enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine without suffering due to extreme heat.

In May, Athens is sunny and warm, and there are no overwhelming crowds of tourists to navigate through. Also on the plus side, the accommodation and airfare are much cheaper. While there might be an occasionally chilly or rainy day, for the most part, the weather will be consistently good.

The long hours of daylight are a huge advantage since you will have plenty of time to explore the complex and rich heritage of Athens. Whether you prefer museums and archaeological sites, or bustling markets and scenic views, every experience is much more pleasant in May.

You might also be interested in: How to spend 3 days in Athens , what to do in Athens, where to stay in Athens.  

Cruise the Norwegian Fjords

The Norwegian Fjords are a major attraction for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and in general for people who love breathtaking scenery. Going on a cruise in May opens up amazing possibilities because the natural sights are more impressive in the spring when trees and flowers are in blossom and contrast with the snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls.

Although it’s still cold in May, avoiding the high season is a major plus when cruising the fjords because Norway is known for being highly expensive. Some of the most picturesque places are Stavanger, Flåm, Hardangerfjord, Geirangerfjord , and Bergen , and there is a wide range of cruises to choose from, from luxury to budget-friendly, with various lengths. The cruises start running in May and since they’re incredibly popular, going at the beginning of the season will be less busy.    

The Scottish Highlands

Rain is ubiquitous in Scotland, but April and May are the driest months, so if you plan your visit for May, you’re going to enjoy the best weather and the most daylight hours. Although some spring showers are inevitable, the landscapes in the Scottish Highlands are gorgeous in May, with roaring waterfalls, green grass fields, and colorful wildflowers.

The scenic nature combined with the amazing historical heritage of the place and the renowned friendliness and hospitality of the Scottish will make your journey memorable. Going in May is overall the wisest decision you can make if you want to explore the best hiking trails undisturbed by the crowds.

Check out my post on how to spend 3 days in Edinburgh here.

If you’re looking for places to travel in Europe in May, I hope you find this list inspiring. Whatever your final choice is going to be, a trip to any of these European destinations will prove a rewarding and refreshing experience. From nature to culture and history, Europe really has it all.

You might want to check out:

Where to go in Europe in June 2023.

Where to go in Europe in July 2023.

Where to go in Europe in August 2023.

Where to go in Europe in September 2023.

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What to Know About Europe’s New Entry Requirement—and Entry Fee—Coming in 2025

In 2025, travelers to Europe will need to register with the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Here's how—and how much it will cost.

By Elizabeth Heath

Updated April 29, 2024

This article has been updated with new information .

In 2025, travelers planning to visit Europe will encounter a new hoop to jump through: the European Travel Information and Authorization System , or ETIAS . 

At least we think  ETIAS will be in place in 2025. Originally scheduled to launch in 2022, the system's implementation has been postponed several times, with the start date currently projected for the "first half of 2025." 

What is ETIAS?

It’s an electronic visa waiver that’s essentially the European Union equivalent to the USA’s Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) .

Travelers from countries whose citizens don’t need to get special visas to enter Europe will need to register with ETIAS to show that those travelers are in fact exempt and may visit Europe. 

While the new system doesn’t change the EU’s open-border policy within the so-called Schengen Area, the ETIAS is intended to “identify security, irregular migration, or high epidemic risks posed by visa-exempt visitors,” according to the European Commission , the EU’s governing body. 

Once approved, ETIAS registration will be  valid for 3 years . However, if your passport expires during that time, you’ll need to apply for a new ETIAS waiver. 

Consistent with current tourist visa rules, ETIAS is intended for stays of 90 days or less within a 180-day period.

Which countries are requiring ETIAS? 

ETIAS registration will be mandatory for travelers who don’t otherwise need a visa to enter Europe’s Schengen Area, which includes about two dozen European Union states along with a handful of other European nations.

In total, 30 countries will require ETIAS: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. 

Who will need to register with ETIAS to travel to Europe?

The scheme applies to the citizens of around 60 visa-exempt countries, including the United States , Canada , Mexico , the United Kingdom , Australia , Japan , much of the Caribbean , and most of South America . 

A complete list can be found on the EU’s website .

Is there a fee?

As of now, the proposed fee for ETIAS registration is €7 (about $8) per applicant between the ages of 18 and 70. 

All travelers, regardless of age, must register with ETIAS, but those under 18 and over 70 are exempt from paying the fee. 

What will the application process involve?

The ETIAS will present an additional but not onerous step for the vast majority of travelers to the EU. 

The online application process will include the following requirements:

• • personal data, including name, date and place of birth, your parents' names, your nationality, home address, email address, and phone number
• • passport info
• • your level of education and current occupation
• • the country of your first intended stay in Europe and the address of your destination
• • details about any criminal record, any past deportations, and past travel to zones experiencing conflict 

In certain cases, applicants may be asked to provide additional documentation or submit to an interview. 

After submitting your application, you'll receive an email confirmation with an application number you should hold onto just in case. Unless the applicant is flagged on one of the EU’s watch lists, approval of ETIAS should arrive in a second email within minutes—though an approval decision could take as long as 30 days in some cases.  

When do travelers need to register for ETIAS?

Once the ETIAS scheme is in place—right now the target is at some point during the first half of 2025—don’t plan to show up for your flight to Europe or at an EU border without a valid ETIAS document, or you will be denied boarding or entry. If ETIAS rules are anything like the USA’s existing ESTA rules, this is no joke.

While the EU promises speedy approval for most travelers, it’s best to play it safe and secure your ETIAS status at least a month before your travel date. Some applicants may be asked to provide additional information or documentation or to participate in an interview with officials, and that process may take up to an additional 30 days, according to the EU.

As with any major new shift in entry requirements, expect some hiccups and delays.

Go to the EU's official ETIAS web portal for full details. 

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11 Beautiful European Cities To Visit In May 2023

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Seasonal Travel
• Spring Travel

May is probably the best month of the year, don’t you agree? Warm enough to sit outside on cafe terraces, cool enough to walk around exploring a city without breaking into a sweat. Trees decked in young, fresh green leaves, flowers still popping up everywhere, and people smiling at the sunshine. It’s quite simply a perfect month to travel to Europe and enjoy city life.

While probably every single European city is lovely to visit in May, some have a little something extra to offer. This is my selection of favorites for you to sample and plan for.

1. Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg , my hometown, is a great city to visit year-round. Hamburg has beautiful architecture; great river and lake walks; more bridges than Amsterdam, Venice, and Stockholm together, each with a photogenic view of the city and its many swans; a huge biannual fairground fest; the Dom; and plenty of good shopping, restaurants, and cafes. But, if you had to choose one reason and one time to visit, choose the first weekend in May. The world’s biggest harbor festival, the Hamburger Hafengeburtstag , the Hamburg Harbor’s birthday, is a spectacle not to be missed.

The river Elbe fills with historic tall ships, cruise ships, sailing and motorboats, fire-ships, tugboats, basically anything that floats. There is barely a drop of water visible between the boats. Ship parades, music events, the aforementioned funfair, fireworks, food stalls, and much more all get crammed into one weekend, and it couldn’t be more spectacular.

Pro Tip: Book early and get yourself a room with a view in the Hotel Hafen Hamburg , or at least a table on the terrace for a meal with the best view in town.

2. Bath, UK

After my hometown comes the city where I got married. Beautiful Bath is even more beautiful in May. The parks are alive and the pedestrianized streets filled with chairs and tables to sit out with a Jane Austen novel at the ready, enjoying the historic surroundings. While that would generally be enough to relish Bath to the fullest, the Bath Festival is the cherry on top. Ten days are crammed full of classical and other concerts, debates on culture and arts, and all sorts of events taking over many historic buildings and outdoor locations, making the most out of Bath’s architectural marvels.

Pro Tip: Book yourself lunch at The Hive Restaurant right by the fabulous Pulteney Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site overlooking the Avon weir. The food is good, too.

3. Coopers Hill, Gloucester, UK

While you are in Bath in May, take the opportunity to visit one of the world’s weirdest festivals: the annual Cheese Rolling Festival in Gloucestershire, some 37 miles north of Bath. Seriously silly and dangerous to join, but fun to watch: Every year, a gigantic wheel of Double Gloucester cheese is rolled down a very steep, 1:2 gradient hill, and a bunch of contestants, taking this very seriously indeed, try to catch it. First across the line, wins. The festival, which is now made up of four races, is said to have started in the 15th century, I am guessing by someone who dropped their cheese, tried to catch it, and thought he’d bring some friends along to join in the fun, and attracts lots of people cheering on those chasing the cheese.

Pro Tip: Rent a car and take the country roads, not the motorway, between Bath and Gloucester, as this is part of the Cotswolds , and you stumble across one village (or pub) more inviting than the next as you go.

4. Florence, Italy

Italy, even northern Italy, is simply too hot to enjoy in summer, and yet the crowds get unsurmountable and take the fun out of la dolce vita. Florence especially gets very crowded, and the queues for the Uffizi simply mind-bogglingly long. Come early in May, though, and you can enjoy the gorgeous gardens in bloom, such as the Rose Garden with its panoramic views across Florence, and take in the historic flag-throwing event, the Trofeo Marzocco , that takes place each May 1 on the Piazza della Signoria. May 1 is also Labor Day, which means many businesses are closed and people are enjoying a day off work, but generally, the crowds are more local than touristy.

Pro Tip: On the first Sunday in May, in fact, every month, a lovely antique market takes place in the small town of Fiesole on Florence’s doorstep. Great for some unusual souvenirs.

12 Florence, Italy Vacation Rentals With Fantastic Views Of The Duomo

5. London, UK

London from late spring to early summer is perfect for strolling through the lanes, enjoying feeding the squirrels in the parks, and hanging around the Thames soaking up sun rays. But there is one event that makes a May visit even more interesting: The Chelsea Flower Show . Even if you are not normally keen on groomed parks and organized flowers, this is the best of the best, in England at least. Royals and international celebrities flock there, having flowers named after them, and the sheer size and selection of blooms are amazing regardless of if you have a green thumb.

Schedule in at least 2 or 3 hours if you are not extraordinarily fond of flowers. If you are, then plan to spend the day. You might even bump into the Queen.

Pro Tip: If, after all that nature, you could do with some contemporary art, the Saatchi Gallery is only steps away from the Royal Hospital Chelsea grounds.

11 Lovely London Vacation Rentals For A Proper British Getaway

6. Palma, Mallorca

Mallorca is one of the best-loved islands for Europeans. Especially the Germans and the English flock there. But don’t let that put you off, as the crowds tend to come in summer, and in May, you will have perfect balmy temperatures of 72.5-degree Fahrenheit highs and 59-degree lows with little rain. You can also enjoy the capital Palma on foot without breaking a sweat. Palma is a lovely old city full of history, a great marina where you can marvel at the royal family’s stunning yacht, and cobbled lanes full of boutiques selling sunny outfits and typically Spanish home decor items. It is also a great place to rent a car and enjoy the truly varied countryside of the largest Balearic island. Head for the mountains and enjoy the vistas.

Pro Tip: The Palma Vela sailing regatta sets off from Palma on April 28, racing around Palma Bay for 8 days, culminating in a grand finale on May 7. The regatta is accompanied by various events taking place around the Palma Marina.

7. Riga, Latvia

Riga is one of my favorite Baltic state capitals. It is perfectly walkable and historic and has superb restaurants and beer gardens, plus a daily fresh produce market located in a set of the most enormous hangars, designed to hold zeppelins, you have ever seen.

In May, the ancient city has emerged from its winter hibernation but its pubs, bars, and streets aren’t yet overrun with stag and hen (or bachelor and bachelorette) party revelers. In May, you can meander through the streets and explore without too much of a crowd and sit by the City Canal or take a boat ride, looking out for the ever-elusive beavers that reportedly live there.

Pro Tip: On May 4, Latvia celebrates the Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence, with military parades held across the country. But this is a normal working day, and shops, museums, and restaurants remain open.

8. Bratislava, Slovakia

Bratislava is a delightful little capital city. It has a medieval part dotted with a selection of statues depicting weird and wonderful characters, from paparazzi to a man emerging from a manhole, and several other art trails. Outside the old town, there is an opera house , small but in grand style, a castle on a hill overlooking the town, plus a somewhat sci-fi and appropriately-named UFO viewing tower on the bridge across the Danube, with toilets offering spectacular views. In May, you don’t get the crowds, nor those stag parties that also have reached the area by now, and the temperatures are perfect even for climbing the castle hill.

Pro Tip: In late May, food stalls take over the streets of Bratislava, with the Slovakia Food Festival taking place. Do not forget to try the Lokse pancakes.

9. Girona, Spain

Girona , roughly halfway between Barcelona and the Pyrenees, is a superb but often overlooked city on the river Onya, a little reminiscent of Bilbao . In May, the temperatures are perfect for scaling and walking along the medieval city walls, as any later in the summer, it gets too hot. Equally, you can walk across the bridge, Pont de les Peixateries Velles , a Gustave Eiffel construction, and meander through the medieval streets spotting filming locations for Game of Thrones .

Pro Tip: In mid-May, the Girona Flower Festival takes place, showcasing art, kitsch, and many flowers across the city.

10. Madrid, Spain

Madrid doesn’t need many reasons to be on anybody’s travel itinerary, but in May, the city pulls out all the stops for the Fiesta de San Isidro , Madrid’s largest traditional festival. Celebrating the city’s patron saint San Isidro, the fiesta starts off with a procession of Giants and Bigheads, and continues during the week with countless music events, stalls, theater, and dance; basically, a great big, fun Spanish fiesta that ought not to be missed.

Pro Tip: In Spain, one fiesta rarely turns up alone, and on May 2, Dos de Mayo is celebrated in and around Plaza Dos de Mayo. Celebrating Madrid’s win against Napoleon’s armies in the early 1800s, there are military parades, concerts, sports events, and food and drink. 

11. Venice, Italy

You might have missed Carnivale this year, but Venice is always a good idea, especially in spring. And in April, there is another reason to pop over to the canal city: The Venice Biennale . In 2023, its focus on architecture will be one of the world’s most important art festivals. Opening in late April and continuing until late November, more than 200 artists from around the globe showcase their work at the Biennale. There are often additional exhibitions throughout the city at stunning locations such as the Gallerie dell’Accademia .

Pro Tip: Even a watery city like Venice has its spring blossoms, and during early May, many walled gardens showcase wisteria blooms creeping over the walls. They are especially spectacular in the Royal Gardens .

The 10 Most Luxurious Villa Vacation Rentals In Italy

For the most incredible European destinations :

• 10 Amazing European Destinations That Feel Like Time Stood Still
• My 13 Favorite European Cities To Avoid The Crowds
• 10 Amazing Experiences In Europe’s Most Gorgeous Parks

A travel writer and guidebook author for the last 20 years, Ulrike's work has been seen in National Geographic , BBC , The Independent , Australian Women's Weekly , The Telegraph , The Australian , Fodor's , France Today , CNN Travel , Lonely Planet , Travel + Leisure , CNTraveler , numerous inflight magazines, and many others.

She has written three books for Moon Travel Guides: 'Living Abroad in Australia' (3rd edition), 'Sydney & the Great Barrier Reef', and the shorter version 'Spotlight Sydney' and are all available in print and as e-books.

Having lived in seven countries (Germany, UK, Qatar, Oman, UAE, Australia, and France) to date and traveled to more than 100, she specializes in writing about travel, art and architecture, expat living, and life and style.

Visit Europe Guides - January 2023 Top tips for Europe in 2023

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The new year of 2023 brings fresh events and old favorites to your trip-planning drawing board. Find out about new or refurbished museums, new tours, fabulous new architecture, and impressive new infrastructure. Consider using UNESCO’s renowned lists of tangible and intangible heritage to plan your best trip yet to discover Europe’s treasures for yourself. Seek out the most sustainable options for the greenest travel. Look for reenactments and other ways you can participate in events with the locals. Whether it’s food or folklore, sauna or science, active sports or wellness travel that lights you up, you’ll find it in Europe . Start planning! We’ll see you soon!

Explore our interactive map, or scroll down to find ideas for your trip!

Featured destinations.

10 experiences for 2023

A travel journalist shares her favorite European spots for the new year.

Germany: something for everyone

Extraordinary towns, museums, and traditions.

Denmark’s 2023 Must Do’s

A guide from a rainbow panorama to a secret bunker.

Ireland in 2023

Discover Ireland’s top attractions in 2023.

Czech Republic’s top events in 2023

The greatest experiences Czechia has to offer!

Experience the best of Finland

The 5 best things to do on your next visit!

The Netherlands’ endless attractions

A small country with a long must-see list for 2023!

Ideas for your trips to Greece in 2023

Greek travels for culture lovers.

Hungary’s exciting capital in 2023

Great programs and new wonders in Budapest.

Highlights of Slovenia in 2023

Why Slovenia should be at the top of your list.

Switzerland’s 2023 best-of list

Experience the best of Swiss culture and events.

Poland: a world of events

Discover unique festivals and shows!

Spain 2023: year of Picasso

The most influential artist of the 20th century.

Belgium: land of Flanders Fields

Forever a silent witness to World War I.

Cyprus’ Cultural Calendar

An abundance of events all year round.

Romania – a must-go in 2023

Explore the Carpathian Garden!

Slovakia´s highlights for 2023

Treat yourself to new travel adventures!

Experience Estonian saunas

Heat it up — 2023 is the Year of the Sauna!

Portugal welcomes you in 2023

Your next great European destination!

The true essence of San Marino

A land with countless stories to tell!

Croatia’s Pelješac Bridge

An amazing new tourist attraction.

February 2024

January 2024

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Europe Entry Requirements 2023: ETIAS, COVID Digital Health Passport, and more

A lot of news has been coming out about Europe’s entry requirements in the last few years. For starters, the EU Covid Passport was implemented in mid-2021 to help control the pandemic. Moreover, a fee for inbound travelers from non-EU countries, called ETIAS, was introduced as well. And finally, many countries have put restrictions in place for travelers coming from China since the country reopened its borders.

However, which of these regulations are still relevant today? What’s the situation when it comes to entering Europe in 2023? In today’s post, we’ll tell you all about it.

We’ll answer some frequent questions, including:

• Are COVID Digital Health Passports still needed?
• What is ETIAS and when will it launch?
• Travel restrictions in Europe for China-bound travelers

Are EU’s COVID Digital Health Passports Still Needed?

On 13 June 2022, The Council of the European Parliament agreed to extend the validity of the EU Covid Passports until 30 June 2023. This way, travelers can still use their EU digital COVID certificate in countries that require travel certificates.

However, on 13 December 2022, the European Council adopted its latest recommendations on travel measures. These new recommendations suggest that member states should not restrict travel for reasons of public health.

Therefore, travelers moving between EU countries or entering the EU from another country shouldn’t be subject to any restrictions.

In other words, to enter the EU, you shouldn’t need:

• To fill out a passenger locator form
• Have a valid EU digital COVID certificate as proof of vaccination, recent recovery, or a negative test.

However, if the epidemiological situation worsens, a valid EU digital COVID certificate could be requested by EU countries that deem travel restrictions necessary.

What is ETIAS and When Will It Launch?

Initially, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) was originally planned to launch in 2021, but was later pushed to May 2023, and later to November 2023. Nevertheless, the European Commission recently reported that it will not be fully operational until 2024.

ETIAS was initially announced in 2019. And back then, many online reports thought of it as a new kind of visa. However, the European Commission has pointed out that this is inaccurate.

Visa-free access to the EU is available to several countries, and this will not change. Nevertheless, the residents of those countries will have to register and pay a fee of 7€ to enter the EU starting next year. Over 60 countries have visa-free access to the EU, including:

However, those who require a visa to enter the EU for short-term stays are exempt from the new ETIAS scheme.

How Will It Work?

Travelers must apply online, through the ETIAS website . They will need to provide their passport information and answer questions about:

• Previous criminal record
• Presence in conflict zones
• Any orders to leave a territory

As already mentioned, the application will cost 7€, and 95% of people are expected to receive a positive response within minutes. After that, the ETIAS will be valid for three years, allowing travelers to enter the EU unlimited times during that period.

Which EU Countries Will Require ETIAS?

As of this writing, the ETIAS scheme will be only applicable to Schengen member countries, and countries that are European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Members. Including:

• Czech Republic
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland

Travel Restrictions in Europe for China-bound Travelers

At the beginning of 2023, after three years since the pandemic started, China finally reopened its borders to international travel . However, for the sake of protecting local health, some countries, including many EU nations, imposed travel restrictions on Chinese visitors, such as:

• Mandatory pre-departure testing
• Mask-wearing during flights
• Random testing on arrivals

However, since mid-February, the EU countries have agreed to gradually lift travel restrictions for travelers coming from China. In fact, they have already been lifted by:

Key Takeaways

All in all, while Europe’s entry requirements have constantly been evolving, the good news is that things are looking up for travelers in 2023.

Nevertheless, when planning your trip, it’s always a good idea to visit your destination’s official website, as well as the relevant government agencies. That way, you’ll find the most up-to-date information on entry requirements, COVID-19 protocols, and other important travel guidelines.

Want to get tested before your next adventure? No matter where you are, or what type of test you need, find COVID testing locations near you with our international directory .

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Find cheap flights to Europe from $157

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight from the united states to europe departing on 10/7. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to europe.

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Good to know

Faqs - booking europe flights, what are some of the passport and visa requirements for united states citizens traveling to france.

Citizens of the United States need to have a valid passport and make sure that the passport remains valid for at least 90 days beyond their date of departure from France. When traveling on vacation, there is no need to get a visa so long as you plan on staying for less than 90 days in France.

If I plan on vacationing in Greece, what are some all the quickest ways I can get there from the United States?

Most Travelers in the United States flying to Greece will go to the Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH). When you are departing from the west coast of the United States and an airport like the San Francisco International Airport (SFO), your quickest option will be a board one-stop flights offered by Lufthansa they have layovers at Munich Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC).

If I plan on traveling to Germany for Oktoberfest, what are the best airport choices?

By far, the best airport choice is to travel to Munich Airport (MUC), which is the city where this event is held. When traveling from the United States, you can find nonstop flights aboard Lufthansa from both Los Angeles International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport, and there are one-stop flights on the same airline from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).

If I am traveling to the International Music Summit in Ibiza, what are some of the best ways to get there from the United States?

One of the most convenient airport choices to get to this event is to travel to the Ibiza Airport (IBZ). When traveling from John F. Kennedy International Airport, you will find one-stop flights aboard Air Europa and Iberia to this airport. If you are traveling from the West Coast of the United States from an airport such as Los Angeles International Airport, you can travel on one-stop flights aboard British Airways and Vueling.

If I would like to make my way to an eastern European country such as Poland, what are some good flight options from the United States?

Most Travelers in the United States making their way to this country will fly to the Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW). If you’re departing from a large city on the East Coast United States such as the Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), the quickest trips occur on one-stop flights aboard Scandinavian Airlines that have layovers at Kastrup Copenhagen Airport (CPH).

Which airline is the best choice for nonstop flights to Sweden from the United States?

By far, your best choice is going to be SAS Airlines since they are based in Stockholm and have a reputation for offering great flight options to Sweden from the United States. One example of this would be the nonstop flights they offer between Chicago O' Hare International Airport (ORD) and Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN).  

How long is the flight to Europe?

An average nonstop flight from the United States to Europe takes 8h 24m, covering a distance of 4062 miles. The most popular route is Newark - London with an average flight time of 7h 05m.

What is the cheapest flight to Europe?

The cheapest ticket to Europe from the United States found in the last 72 hours was $94 one-way, and $296 round-trip. The most popular route is Newark to London Heathrow and the cheapest round-trip airline ticket found on this route in the last 72 hours was $497.

Which airlines fly to Europe?

British Airways, American Airlines & Iberia fly the most frequently from the United States to Europe. The most popular route is from New York to London, and United Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa fly this route the most.

What are the most popular destinations in Europe?

Based on KAYAK flight searches, the most popular destination is London (43% of total searches to Europe). The next most popular destinations are Paris (22%) and Rome (10%). Searches for flights to Athens (9%), to Madrid (5%) and to Lisbon (4%) are also popular.

How does KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a given destination and date is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Europe

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Europe flight deals.
• A popular city in Europe that people from Los Angeles often travel to is Paris. Most travelers will utilize Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) as their departure airport, and to Paris Orly Airport there are non-stop flights aboard French Bee and Air Caraibes, and to Charles de Gaulle International Airport (CDG) there are direct flights aboard Air France and Delta Airlines.
• A city that is quite popular with travelers departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is London. Some of the non-stop flight options available from the airport to London include flights aboard Finnair, Iberia, Virgin Atlantic, and American Airlines to Heathrow Airport (LHR), as well as non-stop flights aboard Norse Atlantic Airways, British Airways, and JetBlue to Gatwick Airport (LGW).
• Passengers in the United States traveling to any city in England and planning on renting a car should know that children must use a car seat until they are at least 12 years old. Parents can utilize the most appropriate type of child restraint based on the age and size of their child.
• When travelers in the center of the United States want to travel to the popular city of Berlin, they most often will depart on international flights from Chicago O' Hare International Airport (ORD). From this airport, passengers can find one-stop flights to Berlin Brandenburg Airport Willy Brandt (BER) aboard LOT Airlines, Icelandair, and Lufthansa.
• When parents plan on taking their children to France and will be driving a rental car, it is important to know that children up to 15 months of age must travel in a rear-facing car seat, and then up to four years old must travel in a forward-facing car seat. After that, any child up to 12 years of age needs to travel in either a booster seat or on a booster cushion.
• One of the most popular destinations in Europe for travelers from the United States is Madrid. When traveling from the large city of Boston and the Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), travelers can find nonstop flight options aboard Iberia, Finnair, and American Airlines to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD).
• Another destination that is quite popular for visitors traveling to Europe is Vienna. When flying from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), passengers can find a number of one-stop flights aboard both United Airlines and Lufthansa that travel to Vienna International Airport (VIE).

Top 5 airlines flying to Europe

Delayed due to an ill passenger after loading. Not preventable on Delta's part. Was in first class. The seats are becoming worn and detaching from their velcro attachments. Only got snacks on flight. The attendant was not the friendliest.

I would fly again the whole experience was great. The only feed back I can give that they don't do that American Airlines does is the crew there is more humorous with boarding and thank their passengers. It makes it more fun to fly with them. I would however fly Delta again.

Big plane, long flight, absolutely no leg room and basically non existent air! I am 5”4’ and always travel Main Cabin, I was miserable on this plane and could barely move when we arrived in Cabo due to the cramped leg area!

From Atlanta to Cabo I would have hoped on a plane that size I would have been able to breathe and wiggle my feet a little! The leg room in that plane is non existent and I am only 5”4’. And the air vent either wasn’t working very well or just could not blow air from the ceiling to the seat area as I was suffocating through the entire flight! And please don’t say I would have been more comfortable in first class because I cannot afford those rates and have always travelled Main Cabin without issues !

The pilots were good. Disappointing when planes don't have electrical ports

I liked the piloting of the aircraft. Very disappointed about lack of electrical ports. Also, although a short flight. there was enough time to hand out snacks to comfort + seats as was done for first class.

I had a wonderful experience flying with delta. The gentleman taking care of us on our flight was so nice, accommodating, and attentive. He always was smiling and giving pins to the kids which made me smile. The flight was quick too and without turbulence. Thank you for the great flying experience.

Delta is one of the best airlines I have flown

Made the Atlanta to Pittsburgh trip many times, with Delta no issues

I always fly with Delta. My friends tell me their horror stories of flying with other airlines. I just smile and say, “You should fly Delta”

All flights were on time and boarding was issue free

Terrible! The plane was old and you are required to connect your own device to their Wi-Fi rather than have entertainment options in the back of the seat in front of you. The Wi-Fi went out during the flight and there was only one plug for the devices every two seats. Three out of five surrounding my family did not work. The seats and spaces under them were so small I could not fit my backpack, which I’ve always brought on flights and fit before no problem. The crew were unpleasant and patronizing.

Great! The plane was decently sized and comfortable. The staff was nice and there was great in flight entertainment

Food was terrible Not many options Stewards dont care Delay

Water service would be great. The way they board is terrible. Slow passengers first😂😂 They need to smart up a bit

Our original business class flight was cancelled so we not only downgraded but we were also spread out across the plane not sitting together in separate middle seats. My poor kids were scared and couldn’t see me on the flight and the crew wasn’t sensitive to the situation and what the airlines did to us. Very dissatisfied with United airlines.

Crew were fine, drinks and snacks were as well but we were delayed for around 2 hrs which made our entry into Mexico delayed as well with the influx of arrivals at the same time. Sort of wasted our first day of vacation. We left Pittsburgh at 630am and did not arrive in Mexico until late dinner time.

The ride was good but no food ot entertainment hence, it was just over an hour flight.

There was a group of school age passengers that were very loud and unruly with their chaperones were no where to be found.

Boarding was unorganized. They expected passengers to ask people to move their assigned seat they paid for in order to sit together. The seats even in comfort are smaller than other airlines and the flight attendants appeared not to be well prepared

Not being able to purchase my check in baggage online was a negative.

LATE LATE LATE!!! Plagued by late AA flights on this trip. Such a drag. This one was by far the worst.

WiFi connected but only let you go to the AA website, not even text messaging worked.

Too bad that first class seats do not recline significantly causing discomfort

I think the seats on some of their planes are uncomfortable. You can be ok on a short flight of two hours but no more than that. The delays, and also the refreshments on the plane were not enough.

Flight delayed over an over all day until it cancelled at 1:30am. Would not repeatedly delay that late. Offer hotel rooms and rebook early. Very difficult for families with small children

Not sure why JAL partnered with American Airlines because their service is no where near similar. Flight attendants were not friendly and didn’t smile. Food was horrible…

this is starting to seem like an american airlines standard. delayed flights and fake apologies… getting tired of it

Terrible boarding , Business class seats are sub standard. As usual crew will miss your food too

Just get Economy Plus for international flights, so worth it the extra room, bigger seats…

It was a busy flight and all the crew were very helpful and gracious

Seats were not the most comfortable and food options weren’t great but overall but everything else was excellent

Check-in very easy and smooth. Plane and crew were nice. Seat open next to me created more space. Food was fair but plentiful. Lots of movies and I was able to sleep some on the way to Munich. Very tight connection, about an hour. Fast through passport control and a bit of a walk to last G terminal gate but I made my connection to Palma. Unfortunately, my luggage did not make it. It is now almost 24 hours since I anded and still NO luggage. I know it landed last night on another flight. Local delivery should be today to my hotel in Palma but nothing yet. I asked about the tight connection when I checked in and was assured they would get my luggage to the connecting flight. Very disappointing it missed my flight but more disappointing that it has taken so long to arrive. Failure on the airlines and service to get my luggage to date.

I wish the flight attendant was a little bit kinder

The food wasn’t great and it would be nice if the airlines showed documentaries about the countries we are flying into.

Disappointed everytime. The app doesn't load the boarding passes. They have lots of agent that seem to be busy doing nothing with a long line waiting to get paper boarding passes. Food choices are poor. Entertainment is less than entertaining.

Horrible experience. Nothing to give to kids to keep them entertained.

I think I have bruises on my kneecaps. Do the seats have to be so close together these days? And if they are so close they really shouldn’t recline. I think when the gentleman in front of me reclined, the back of his head was on my chin. That being said the crew were always caring and polite, and the flight was on time and very safe. So I’m grateful for that.

I always try to book flights that don’t charge for baggage. Yet I was charged $75 for this flight.

Trouble keeps changing the time and I was booked different flight without knowing it was bad experience

Not connecting flights. Missed my flight from Dublin to Liverpool because I arrived at Dublin one hour too late. For this mistake, they offered me a flight from Dublin to Manchester. Thats great and all, but I waste time and money to commute to Liverpool. Be sure to check the time of your connecting flights, because they sure don’t when they sell it to you

Excellent! Great flight attendants, good food (in business class, at least), very comfortable. Touchscreen and remote wasn’t great.

In economy and food was ok, but with limited leg space (and I was in a 2 seat configuration) it was difficult to eat with a tiny seat tray. I spilt wine on my trousers. First time on British Air (I usually fly Turkish Air) and in a 777. Heathrow was pleasant but changing terminals awkward.

Starting with the flight Cairo to London the plain was so poor no entertainment at all uncomfortable seats although it’s 5 hours long,then an American airline plain took me from London to Miami it was a bad experience the crew most of flight time not available and they asked us to help our selves for any snacks if we need. From Miami to London actually was perfect flight with a huge plain and perfect crew but from London to Cairo was horrible plain with stiff fixed seats not movable no entertainment or wi fi very poor Menu which is unacceptable for a business class

I've done hundreds of flights in my life, and this flight was one of the best I've ever taken, From beginning to end, everything went smoothly, professionally, and with a smile and friendly attitude from all employees I interacted with. The food was delicious (and free), as were the drinks. There was just a genial and effective way in the way that British Airways organized the flight -that reminded of days in the 70's, 80's, and 90's, when flying was a fun, and exciting adventure. I enjoyed and had confidence in the abilities of the flight crew, I'll be flying British Airways several more times this summer. Thank you so much for the great experience! Cheryl Olso

My baggage did not arrived with me. Took 3 days to get it after so may calls and follow up

Terrible! I missed my flight to my final destination and British airlines and American Airlines keep pointing fingers on each other’s. Nobody wants to take responsibility

Terrible. Flight was 3 hours delayed and I missed my other flight to my final destination

Overall, terrific service, accommodations, and experience. Only reason comfort was rated lower was because it was difficult to keep a comfortable sleeping position for the overnight flight, but I also had an economy seat.

Not sure if the crew were experiencing something unknown to me,but the service of passing water was non-existent.In addition,please take consideration when providing yogurt as alternative for breakfast as some of us, could be lactose intolerant.. thanks

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Your Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Europe in May 2023

Travel Your Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Europe in May 2023

Europe in May celebrates the onset of sunny months ahead. With flowers blossoming and outdoor activities picking up pace again, it is surely a wonderful time to be travelling within the continent. Safe to say, May is the calm before the storm - right before the crowds swarm in to enjoy their summer vacations, making it an even more viable destination for travellers looking for some tranquility and peace. Pleasant weather being just one of the brownie points - affordable accommodation, cheap flight tickets, open air festivals only scratch the surface of the merits in May.

10 Best Places to Go in Europe in May

Pack your bags for a holiday that you’ve been waiting to take, and take a look at ten of the best places to visit in Europe during May.

Munich, Germany

Average high: 19°c | average low: 8°c.

A much sought after destination at any given point through the year, Munich comes alive especially around summer as tourists from all over the world stop by for its Frühlings fest in May. Although smaller than the iconic Oktoberfest, Frühlingsfest (Springfest) brings with it all the perks of the Oktoberfest, minus the crowds! This mini Oktoberfest fills the entire city with energy and enthusiasm and obviously lots of beer and dancing. For a slightly quieter time, take a stroll amidst its expansive beer gardens and sample some beer from some of the local breweries. With the pleasant weather cooperating with your elaborate plans, Munich in May is quite the terrific decision.

Top Recommended Experiences in Munich

San Sebastian, Spain

Average high: 18°c | average low: 12°c.

What could be a better way of enjoying summer than to spend it on a beachfront? San Sebastian in Spain offers you all that, and more during the month of May. Take a relaxing vacation on one of the most beautiful bays of Europe, and enjoy the getaway you have always imagined of! What makes this destination perfect is the number of museums, breathtaking architecture and its one too many shopping hubs that dot its cityscape. Spain during the month of May also witnesses a bloom of wildflowers and lush greenery - the perfect time to hike with a view.

Stavanger, Norway

Average high: 15°c | average low: 7°c.

A lesser known holiday destination that is slowly gaining popularity within travel enthusiasts is Stavanger . Known for its panoramic landscapes and verdant greenery, Stavanger is ideal for those who wish for a little adventure on their itinerary. While there are a few beaches along its coastline, Stavanger is widely preferred for its flora and fauna. Often popular with the trekkers, this destination also provides great opportunities for shutterbugs interested in taking home picture-perfect social media posts from their holiday. Blessed with a pleasant climate and hardly any snow, Stavanger in May is perhaps the much-needed offbeat holiday destination that you should put on your list.

Dublin, Ireland

Average high: 15°c | average low: 6°c.

While Dublin is quite popular with tourists in summer, visiting in May will provide you some respite from the peak season crowds. With plenty of scope for fun activities around the city, you may find several cook-outs as well as food and music festivals taking place towards the end of the month. If you’re lucky, you may also have a chance to witness Phoenix Park (considered as one of the most beautiful parks of Europe) in its blooming phase during this time of the year. Catch a moment of silence at Dublin’s famous art district and stroll amidst its leafy suburbs — there’s something for everyone.

Porto, Portugal

Average high: 20°c | average low: 12°c.

With its quintessential narrow, cobbled-stone lanes and charming houses, Porto in Portugal is considered as one of the most romantic destinations of Europe. Find yourselves making the most of the quaint by-lanes and the contemporary art at some of its famous museums. Hopping onboard a helicopter ride is also a sought after attraction in Porto, and explorers find themselves indulging in various adventure activities around the city. Visiting in May can spare you from the peak season crowds at Bolhao market, located in the heart of the city. In fact, you may find yourself being treated to a myriad of colours with the finest wine during this time of the year.

Montreux, Switzerland

Average high: 19°c | average low: 9°c.

With sprawling, green meadows and fresh piney air, Montreux in Switzerland is quite popular with the tourists around the year. However, visiting it in May is the best time to watch these landscapes come alive with blooming trees and flowers. Take some time off to rejuvenate at the Lake, or simply catch a few pages of your favourite book at one of its quaint, road-side cafés — there will be no dearth of activities during this time of the year. With several other cities located in close distance, Montreux is also a great place to be if you’re looking for one-day trips around Switzerland.

Paris, France

Average high: 20°c | average low: 11°c.

If you’ve always wanted to put Paris on your list, but didn’t want to battle the peak-season crowds, May is your month to travel to your dream destination. With little to no crowd during the beginning of the month, Paris could be a great destination to travel with your family or friends. Catch a cabaret show at Moulin Rouge, or simply head over to Disneyland Paris to enjoy the park without any hassles. A boat ride down the Seine during this time of the year can also acquaint you to the city in a brand new light.

Paris Itineraries | Paris Travel Guide | Paris on a Budget | Seine Dinner Cruises | Paris Deals & Offers | Paris City Passes | Best Paris Cabarets

Read More About Paris In May

Top Recommended Experiences in Paris

Athens, Greece

Average high: 25°c | average low: 16°c.

Discover one of the greatest civilisations in the world in all its glory. Athens is a great destination to choose if you’re travelling in the month of May, as the city offers affordable accommodation closer to the heart of the city. Apart from being a hub for history and art enthusiasts, May is a great month to enjoy shopping in Athens without the exhausting crowd that haunts the city otherwise. You may take a guided tour at the Acropolis, or could choose to use the hop on hop off bus which is convenient for travellers who wish to explore at their own pace.

Average High: 18°C | Average Low: 10°C

A melting-pot of cultures, London is, perhaps, popular in every season. While it is almost impossible to avoid crowd, you can get lucky with off-season prices in the month of May. Whether you choose to hang around in one of its many boroughs, or decide to head over to Harrods for some afternoon-shopping — London has a lot to offer during the onset of summer. Look out for offers at the Warner Bros studio or the famous Tower Bridge that are easily available during this time of the year. Despite its unpredictable weather, London in May is a pleasant surprise waiting to be discovered.

London Itineraries | London Airport Transfers | River Thames Cruises | London Travel Guide | Hampton Court Palace | London Palace Pass | The Shard

Read More About London In May

Top Recommended Experiences in London

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Average high: 18°c | average low: 5°c.

Tourists flock to Amsterdam every year in summer to catch it blooming after a hiatus of winter. However, Amsterdam in May is not only quieter, but is less expensive as compared to its peak season. Make the most of your holiday by walking by some of its famous canals or by opting for a guided tour at the iconic Van Gogh museum. The month of May is also a great time to bike around the city, and catch it welcoming the spring season in all its glory. This is also an ideal time to catch some of its famous outdoor festivals taking place at its various parks and plazas.

Amsterdam 7 Day Itineraries | Best Time To Visit Amsterdam | Heineken Experience | Amsterdam Travel Tips & Hacks | Anne Frank Walking Tour

Read More About Amsterdam In May

Top Recommended Experiences in Amsterdam

For more bucketlist travel experiences around the world, check out the Ultimate 2020 Bucket List Adventures

Europe Through The Year

Best Places To Visit In Europe In January

Best Places To Visit In Europe In February

Best Places To Visit In Europe In March

Best Places To Visit In Europe In April

Best Places To Visit In Europe In May

Best Places To Visit In Europe In June

Best Places To Visit In Europe In July

Best Places To Visit In Europe In August

Best Places To Visit In Europe In September

Best Places To Visit In Europe In October

Best Places To Visit In Europe In November

Best Places To Visit In Europe In December

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Europe Tours in May 2024

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250+ Europe trips in May 2024

• Christmas & New Year

Genuine Europe

Tour was great and the tour guides were excellent. It just felt a bit rushed as there were too many sites to see in too few days.

• Walking Adventure
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

European Discovery (Summer, Start London, Classic, 12 Days)

The trip was fantastic, I had the best time ever, making memories that will last a lifetime.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Europe Jewel

Very amazing experience love it.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Europe Escape

It was a fantastic, whirlwind trip. We saw all the highlights of Europe, and had a fantastic time!

European Delight

The trip was well organised with very minimal itches

• In-depth Cultural

Best of Central Europe

To be honest, part of what made the trip fantastic was our group of 12- could not have had a better group to travel with- which is clearly luck, but a piece of our group being so cohesive was Nejca, our guide. She was perfect! Available but not pushy. Laid back, but willing to assert herself to make our experience the best. She made each person in the group feel special and appreciated. Thank you, Nejca! The itinerary was quite good as well. Although there were places I could have stayed for a day longer, I think it’s important to not stay too long and feel like time is wasted on a certain place on the tour. Transportation was efficient and Nejca did a great job getting us to our destinations easily and without rushing. Accommodations were very good- with the exception of Prague. Although our apartment was nice, it was clear that the residents of Prague feel that their space is being taken over by tourists- which is clearly true. I would have preferred to have stayed in a hotel in Prague-honestly, I would have paid more for it. Other than that, cannot day enough good things about the trip! Thank you!!

Baltic Experience

First and foremost with these tours, the enjoyment and experiences can be enhanced by the guide you have and our guide for this trip was exceptional! There are a LOT of cobblestones to walk on this tour so sensible footwear is an absolute must. Every city visited had its 'Old City" which were paved with cobblestones. It was a fascinating tour of the history of this part of Europe from medieval times to present day. The days spent canoeing and trekking in the countryside offered a welcome break from the cities visited. Klaipeda and the day trip to the unique, World Heritage-listed Curonian Spit National Park was just one of the highlights of the countryside experience. A hillside of Witches was a unique collection of sculptured tree trunks depicting all manner of mythical witches and demons. Amazing to wander through this huge area with such an engaging local guide to share the stories and history of the area. Hiking and canoe through Aukstaitija National Park's dense forests and lakes provided an opportunity for not only physical activity, but also time to swim and stop to appreciate the wild flowers and other flora. Plants that are considered garden annuals here, grow wild amongst the grasses and forests of this area. But Riga was one of the most beautiful cities visited. Fragrant gardens, fountains, old and new public sculptures and the well preserved and restored art nouveau buildings, made this city enchanting and fascinating. The trip did consist of long journeys especially by bus from Warsaw to Berlin. It proved to be quite exhausting and could be well improved by a stay somewhere in between these two major cities. Overall, if interested in Russian and German occupation and the history of these Baltic countries and their struggle for independence then this is the trip for it.

• Photography

European Discovery (Summer, Start Amsterdam, Classic, 12 Days)

• River Cruise

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

It was a great tour. There were a few thinks that could have been better. Gentle walking was not gentle and it would have been nice to know before hand that a half hour walk was more like an hour and a half.

Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

Fine dining filled by fine dancing

Tour from Athens to Dubrovnik or Split: 7 Balkan countries in 14 days

We had a fabulous trip with ChooseBalkans and would highly recommend them for your next trip to the region. And, we highly recommend you visit Albania: lots of fresh and delicious food, beautiful places to visit, and ancient and contemporary history to learn about. Sirma has been responsive and proactively communicative the entire time we worked with them. They put together a wonderful, affordable, and personalized tour for us on quite short notice (because of our schedule) and found us a top-notch tour guide, Gerion. They combined several of their pre-packaged tours based on our requests, and organized a 10-day trip from Tirana to Athens that included 6 UNESCO sites, three countries, three opportunities to hike, time to explore towns and cities, recommendations of where to eat (we are vegetarians, and yes, there was plenty for us to eat in the Balkans!), and more. ChooseBalkans and Gerion arranged the travel, tour, and hotel logistics and regularly asked if there was anything else we needed. The name of the company is our final comment - Choose Balkans!

Essential Britain & Ireland

Very knowledgeable, professional, and courteous.

European Cavalcade (End Paris, 18 Days)

Excellent 18 days itineraries!

United Kingdom and Ireland ( 10 days )

Best of Ireland and Scotland (15 Days)

Our guide Michelle was excellent. The city sightseeing tours on the bus were a waste of time. Our local tour guide in Edinburgh was awful. Why the laughing through most of her talking? Very irritating. The Fish & Chips dinner in the local dumpy restaurant was the worst meal of the trip. Otherwise just what we expected.

What people love about Europe Tours in May

First half was good second guide didn't speak English to 20% and 80,%spanish

The tour was awesome. Too bad it was short. Our Tour leader Noddy perform extremely well job organizing and controlling our big group so we was on time everywhere. Our driver Dennis professionalism is off the charts. Especially when we was driving through narrow streets of Italy. I would recommend this tour to others

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I regret spending 2 weeks in Europe traveling to 6 different places. Next time, I'm choosing quality over quantity.

• I spent two weeks backpacking through four European countries for the first time.
• I visited six different cities for short stays: Berlin, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Milan, and Zurich.
• I didn't have enough time in each place, so I regretted packing so many destinations into one trip.

Berlin, Vienna, Venice, Rome, Milan, and Zurich. Is two weeks in Europe enough time to explore all of these places? 

I found out for myself in October 2022 when I went backpacking in Europe for the first time, visiting four countries and six cities. 

Back then, I wanted to see as much of the continent as possible. Since I was going for two weeks, I thought one or two nights in each city would help me make the most of my trip by allowing me to see a variety of places.

But once I was there, I realized I only got a sampling of what each destination had to offer.

48 hours isn't enough time to explore a city

I longed for more memories in Berlin — my first stop on the trip — as soon as I boarded my train to Vienna . And when I was headed from Austria to Italy, I felt I had barely gotten a taste of Vienna's art scene .

I spent a week in Italy, but splitting my time between three different cities — Venice, Rome, and Milan — left me craving more.

This was especially true in Rome — one of the most popular tourist destinations for the summer of 2024, according to a recent study of trending searches by Delta .

Related stories

The ancient city blended old and new. I strolled down cobblestone streets with ruins on one side and modern buildings on the other. Seeing the dramatic exteriors of Renaissance museums had me longing for enough time to go inside. And seeing ruins from a distance made me wish I had the chance to see them up close.

My last stop in Switzerland had my favorite landscapes of the whole trip, and after just two nights, I flew home wishing I'd made time for an epic mountain hike.

From stunning architecture and rich histories to striking landscapes, these cities impressed me upon arrival.

But with less than 48 hours to explore each destination, I could only hit the top tourist highlights, like the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, the Colosseum in Rome , and the canals in Venice . 

I didn't have a chance to dive deeper into what life in each city was really like. If I had more time, I would have cruised on Lake Zurich, shopped in Milan, or stayed in the neighborhood of Kreuzberg in Berlin . Each day in every city, I walked past remarkable buildings and massive museums that intrigued me and thought, "Next time."

So, no — two weeks is not enough time to explore six European cities, and I learned the hard way.

Visit fewer places and take your time

If you're planning a trip to Europe, don't find yourself saying "next time" every day, like me.

Instead, I recommend focusing on one or two cities or towns and taking the time to immerse yourself in their art scenes, neighborhoods, and history. That way, you'll leave with a deeper sense of the destinations you carefully selected.

On my flight back to New York City, I'd already started mentally planning to visit Zurich, Berlin, Rome, and Vienna again.

So, on the way home, if you still wonder about a destination you didn't get to, make sure there's a next time.

Watch: Garbage and floodwater fill up streets in Italy, disrupting tourist season

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Places Americans don’t visit—but definitely should

Posted: May 11, 2023 | Last updated: July 10, 2023

Places Americans don’t visit but definitely should

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Turkmenistan

The nation is an ancient land of great spirituality, tradition, and natural beauty. Its most famous attraction is the Darvaza gas crater (pictured), also known as the "Door to Hell" or ''Gates of Hell." This natural gas field collapsed into an underground cavern when geologists set it on fire. It alone is worth the trip.

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Sarah Pollok

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Webjet found flight bookings to Copenhagen have increased 100 per cent compared to last year. Photo / 123rf

Kiwis escaping the winter weather and heading to Europe for a balmy holiday is nothing new.

What is new, however, is the cities they’re choosing to visit while in the cultured continent, according to data from online travel agency Webjet.

Flight bookings to one particular Scandinavian city in Europe have increased an impressive 100 per cent compared to last year, Webject revealed.

Webjet analysed Kiwi flight bookings made between October 16, 2023, and April 16, 2024, for travel over the next six months. Compared to bookings made for the 2023 Europe summer, one city in Denmark showed a major spike in popularity.

Kiwis seem obsessed with Copenhagen , the capital of Denmark , with bookings up 100 per cent compared to 2023. Its photogenic cobblestone streets and brightly painted buildings may have something to do with it, too, as TikTok videos with the hashtag ‘Copenhagen’ have received one million views from New Zealanders in the last four months, Webjet added.

The top destinations were the classic spots such as Bali and London, according to Webjet CEO David Galt, but the buzzing capital of Copenhagen was certainly one to watch.

From rich historical quarters to stunning contemporary buildings (which earned it the title of the World Capital of Architecture by Unesco in 2023), a world-class culinary scene and neighbourhoods teeming with boutique stores, it’s a city of delights that has been majorly overlooked .

That’s even before mentioning the kindhearted people who express a level of friendliness that probably comes from living in a nation that invented hygge and is regularly voted the happiest in the world.

Unfortunately, like many popular Scandinavian spots, this charming city doesn’t come cheap. A Lonely Planet writer recently detailed the cost of a weekend in the city, which came to around $1222 not including flights.

As for accommodation, hotels and apartments in the city centre in June start at $400 per night for one person.

Fortunately, there are ways to see the best Europe has to offer without having to empty your savings account. In fact, Contiki tour manager Meg Prendergast believes there’s an entire region often ignored by travellers that is charming and cheap.

Even better, these spots are still far less popular than hot spots like Rome or Paris, meaning you won’t be faced with crowds of tourists and hiked prices.

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Europe endured record number of ‘extreme heat stress’ days in 2023

New report warns people are increasingly at risk in a continent warming twice as fast as the global average.

Europe is increasingly facing bouts of heat so intense that the human body cannot cope, climate monitors have warned.

The continent endured a record number of “extreme heat stress” days in 2023, the European Union’s Copernicus climate monitoring service and the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Monday.

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In writing its latest report, Copernicus and the WMO noted last year’s extreme conditions, including a July heatwave that pushed 41 percent of southern Europe into strong, very strong or extreme heat stress – the biggest area of Europe under such conditions in any day on record.

The continent also suffered catastrophic flooding, severe droughts, violent storms and its largest ever forest fires.

“We’re seeing an increasing trend in the number of days with heat stress across Europe and 2023 was no exception, with Europe seeing a record number of days with extreme heat stress,” said Rebecca Emerton, a climate scientist at Copernicus.

For its latest study, Copernicus and WMO used the Universal Thermal Climate Index, which measures the effect of the environment on the human body.

It takes into account not just high temperatures but also humidity, wind speed, sunshine and heat emitted by the surroundings.

The index has 10 different categories of heat and cold stress, with units of degrees Celsius representing a “feels-like” temperature.

Parts of Spain, France, Italy and Greece experienced as many as 10 days of extreme heat stress in 2023, defined as a “feels like” temperature of more than 46 degrees Celsius (115 degrees Farenheit), at which point immediate action must be taken to avoid conditions such as heat stroke.

Extreme heat poses particular risks to people who work outdoors, the elderly, and those with health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.

Parts of Italy recorded 7 percent more deaths than normal last July. A 44-year-old man painting road markings in the northern town of Lodi was among those who died after he collapsed at work.

“We see that there is excess mortality when we see such extreme heatwaves like was the case in 2023,” said Alvaro Silva, a climatologist from WMO.

“This increase in mortality… is affecting [the] big majority of European regions. This is a big concern.”

Heat-related deaths in Europe have soared by about 30 percent in the past 20 years, the report said.

For the world as a whole, last month was the warmest March ever , marking the 10th straight month of historic heat as greenhouse gas emissions, mostly from fossil fuels, continued to push temperatures higher.

The surface temperature of the world’s oceans, which absorb 90 percent of excess heat produced by emissions, also hit a new high, according to Europe’s climate monitoring agency.

In their latest report, scientists warned Europe was warming twice as fast as the global average and that heatwaves were likely to become longer and more powerful in future.

“Current heatwave interventions will soon be insufficient to deal with the expected heat-related health burden,” the report said, noting that Europe’s population was ageing while also becoming increasingly urban.

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Reporting by Andreas Rinke, writing by Maria Martinez, editing by Clelia Oziel

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