Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach escape, a charming European getaway, a peaceful countryside retreat, or the bustling vibe of Tokyo in the spring, we’ve curated our top travel picks for May 2025.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a dynamic city-break destination in May, with guaranteed sunshine and average temperatures around 30–38°C. While it’s warm, the city’s world-class indoor attractions make it ideal for a luxurious escape shop in the vast Dubai Mall, marvel at the Burj Khalifa, wander the Dubai Miracle Garden, or unwind at a beach club along Jumeirah. With direct flights from the UK, it’s an easy getaway packed with culture, glamour, and unforgettable experiences.
Where to stay:
Located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah Island, Raffles the Palm, Dubai is a palatial beach resort offering 369 luxurious rooms, suites and villas. Guests can enjoy Raffles’ quintessential standards of service, including a 24-hour Raffles Butler, or pamper themselves in the Cinq Mondes Spa, offering 23 treatment rooms, two private spa suites, scrub rooms, hammams and fully equipped gym and yoga classes.
Mykonos, Greece
With its iconic whitewashed architecture, turquoise waters, and golden beaches, Mykonos is a dream destination in May – and an ideal time to beat the crowds before the peak of Euro summer. It’s an ideal time for exploring the island’s charming streets, dining at waterfront tavernas, and soaking up the lively yet laid-back atmosphere. The sea is warm enough for swimming, and the island’s nightlife begins to buzz without being overwhelming. This is also the perfect time to experience Mykonos’ stunning sunsets and world-renowned hospitality at its best.
Where to stay:
Located just minutes away from Mykonos Town, BILL&COO is a boutique hotel offering an intimate and luxurious stay, overlooking Megali Ammos Beach. The guest rooms are thoughtfully curated, with sophisticated and minimal aesthetics.
Porto, Portugal
With daily direct flights from various cities across the UK, Porto shines as an ideal European city-break destination. In May, the city enjoys a pleasantly warm spring climate, with average temperatures ranging from 13–22°C, perfect for exploring its rich history, stunning architecture, vibrant street art, and world-class galleries.
Where to visit: The Cultural District,
One of the city’s top attractions, WOW offers immersive museums, incredible dining, and stunning views over the Douro River. Stay at The Yeatman, located across the river from Porto in Vila Nova de Gaia, offers luxurious wine-themed accommodations with stunning views of the Douro River and Porto. Complete with Michelin-star dining and an indulgent wine-themed spa, it is a top choice for an unforgettable stay in Porto.
Saas-Fee, Switzerland
Surrounded by 18 peaks soaring above 4,000 metres, including Switzerland’s tallest mountain, the Dom, Saas-Fee is a stunning alpine retreat in May, offering crisp mountain air, quiet trails, and snow-capped peaks. With average temperatures around 10–15°C, it’s perfect for spring hikes, glacier views, and soaking up the peaceful charm of the car-free village, without the ski season crowds.
Where to stay:
The Capra is an intimate alpine lodge with just 38 suites and rooms, blending chalet-style elegance with modern comforts. Awarded two Michelin Guide Keys in 2024, the hotel is a haven for those seeking seclusion, wellness, and unparalleled snow. Its Peak Health Spa offers personalised treatments, from facials to therapeutic massages.
Sardinia, Italy
Southern Sardinia is an ideal May destination, with average temperatures around 22–25°C, perfect for beach days and outdoor adventures. The island is still quiet before peak season, with wildflowers in bloom, clear waters, and charming towns to explore, offering a relaxed, authentic taste of Sardinia.
Where to stay:
Conrad Chia Laguna offers a luxurious retreat with sweeping views of Chia Bay and the lagoon, home to a vibrant colony of pink flamingos. Guests can unwind by two scenic pools overlooking the coastline or indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Conrad Spa, including massages, facials, and body wraps. Private shuttles provide easy access to Monte Cogoni and Dune di Campana, recognised as two of Italy’s most beautiful beaches.
New York City, USA
May is a fantastic time to visit New York, with spring in full bloom, outdoor dining spots buzzing, and the city’s iconic energy at its peak. Average temperatures range from 13–22°C, making it perfect for strolling through Central Park, browsing open-air markets, or enjoying rooftop cocktails with iconic skyline views.
Where to go:
This season, a must-see addition to the NYC cityscape is the newly opened Printemps New York – the iconic French department store’s first U.S. flagship, located inside the historic One Wall Street. Blending cutting-edge fashion, artful design, and elevated dining, Printemps brings Parisian elegance to the heart of Lower Manhattan. Visitors can explore beautifully curated fashion and lifestyle collections before relaxing at one of the new cafés or restaurants, such as Maison Passerelle, a French fine-dining experience led by renowned Chef Gregory Gourdet, or Café Jalu, a casual all-day café offering light bites, coffee, and tea, all nestled within the reimagined Art Deco landmark.
