Festival season begins in May as Malta gears up for the summer with a host of reasons to party. Temperatures and sunshine are steadily rising, allowing for scorching sightseeing and blissful relaxing
Iceland's nature wakes from its long winter slumber in May. Lush green hills welcome the millions of puffins returning to the island to breed. The whale watching season is also well underway.
The effects of impending summer are beginning to be felt, especially on the coast. Pleasantly warm in Bodrum and Dalaman: get out and visit ancient sites, then relax on white-sand beaches
Warmer by the day and not quite full tourist season makes May a perfect month for a trip to Florence. Head to Piazza Michelangelo for some breathtaking views of city rooftops with a blue-sky backdrop
A true windsurfing country with a chilled-out, "Caribbean-esque" vibe. High temperatures, little rain and white-sand beaches combine to make the island nation a perfect place for some May down time
The Czech beer festival is held for 17 days every May and is a must for beer lovers. Over 70 different brands can be sampled, although you may need to pace yourself. Na zdraví!
The increasing warmth of May is perfect for strolling along La Rambla and people-watching. Not swelteringly hot, but perfectly pleasant for relaxing in the cosmopolitan city centre or at the beach
Moderate warmth and reliably dry, it's not yet peak season so less crowded. You could try dipping your toes in the Atlantic by surfing at Costa Vicentina or just relax and enjoy the region's slow pace
Temperatures are high and climbing and rainfall is low. Slightly cooler evenings add some much-needed relief, and everything will be open so it won't be a struggle to find somewhere for souvlaki
