Looking to catch the heat but beat the summer crowd? This may be your best bet. Here are the top ten warmest countries in Europe in May.
With the summer fast approaching come the fifth month of the year, a trip to Europe may be on the cards for you if you are hoping to get an earlier taste of the sun and warmer weather.
Indeed, the European continent, particularly around the south of Europe, is one of the best and most accessible places to get a warm city break or sun-soaked beach stay before the busier summer months come into play.
If this sounds like something for you, read on to find out about the top ten warmest countries in Europe in May.
WBL’S top 5 tips for visiting warm countries
- Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated in warm climates. Carry a refillable water bottle with you.
- Apply sunscreen with a high SPF, wear a hat, and use sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays and avoid sunstroke.
- Choose lightweight, breathable clothing in light colours to stay cool. Opt for fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Schedule outdoor activities during the colder parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon and try to avoid the mid-day sun.
- When the sun is at its peak, find shade or take breaks indoors to avoid overheating by using air conditioning or fans to lower your body temperature.
10. France – head down south
Kicking off our list of the top 10 warmest countries in Europe in May is France, particularly the south of the country. Nice and Monaco are amongst the top spots to visit at this time.
It is said that between May and October is the best time to visit the south of France. Indeed, with an average temperature of 17C (63F) and highs of 20C (68F), it is worth the trip.
READ ALSO: Top 10 best towns in the South of France you need to visit
9. Portugal – a city break in the sun
If you are seeking a city break in the month of May with the sun on your back, Lisbon of Portugal is for you. The city gains a high of around 22C (72F) in the month of May.
However, the temperature will drop to around 13C (55F) during the evenings and nights, so be prepared for the change.
8. Croatia – now one of Europe’s most popular destinations
Croatia has developed to become one of the most popular destinations in Europe to visit, so a trip this May would be well-advised.
Weather-wise, the temperature here can reach a high of around 23C (74F), with lows of 15C (59F), which would still be high for many other countries at this time.
RELATED READING: The Top 5 best party islands in Croatia
7. Montenegro – one of the warmest countries in Europe in May
Next on our list of the warmest countries in Europe in May is Montenegro. Almost replicating Croatia, the weather here sits around a high of 23C (74F) and a low of 15C (59F).
The Balkan country in the southeast of Europe is one embroidered in history and is full of stunning sites making it another spot to consider.
6. Malta – heating up in the Mediterranean Sea
Next up of the warmest countries in Europe is Malta. Located in the Mediterranean Sea between Italy and Libya, it is no wonder the archipelago makes this list.
Indeed, the highest temperatures in Malta can reach an incredible 24C (75F). The average sits at around 20.5C (69F).
5. Italy – heading south again
Kicking off our top five warmest countries in Europe in May is a nation that would make any monthly list; Italy.
The further south you go, the warmer you get. In the northern and central cities, such as Milan or Rome, it will reach highs of 21C (70F). In the south, it is a stunning 24C (75F).
READ ALSO: WBL’S Italy Bucket List: 10 things to do in Italy before you die
4. Spain (Canary Islands) – the islands and the sun
Spain is undoubtedly on our list of the warmest countries in Europe in May, particularly the Canary Islands.
The average daily maximum can reach around 25C (77F), which is summer weather already. Even in the capital of Madrid, it can reach a high of 22C (72F).
Spain remains one of the warmest countries in Europe throughout the year, even before May, in March and April, too.
3. Greece – for ten hours of daily sunshine in Europe
Unsurprisingly, Greece takes third spot on our list of the warmest countries in Europe. Estimates have highs between 22C (72F) and 25C (77F).
There will be around ten hours of daily sunshine if you head to Greece in May. So, if you are fed up with grey skies, you know where to go. It also isn’t a bad time of the year to visit the best party islands in Greece.
RELATED READING: Island hopping in Greece: places to visit and things to know
2. Turkey – highs of 25 degrees
Much like Greece, our penultimate selection on this list is Turkey, which can hit heights of around 25C (77F) in May, particularly around the areas of Antalya and Bodrum.
In Istanbul, the highs will reach around 22C (72FC), a regular theme throughout the warmer countries across the continent.
1. Cyprus – warmer than most countries in the summer
Topping our list of the warmest countries in Europe in May is Cyprus. Going even further than the top five, the average daily maximum is a whopping 27C (81F).
This island country is located in the Anatolian Peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea, with unique exposure to the heat at this time.
Your questions answered about the warmest countries in May
If you you want to plan a trip away in May and still have questions about the warmest countries, we’ve got you covered! In this section, we have answered some of the most popular questions about this topic from our readers online.
What countries are really hot in May?
Outside of Europe, some of the hottest places to visit in May are Cancun (37.5 °C), Bangkok (34.6 °C), Singapore (32.3 °C), and Cairo (31.9 °C). The hottest countries in the world are also brilliant to visit in the right season.
Where is the hottest place in the Mediterranean in May?
The warmest area in the Mediterranean in May is Crete.
Which of the Canary Islands is the hottest in May?
In May, the hottest of the Canary Islands is typically Lanzarote. Lanzarote enjoys warm temperatures throughout the year due to its proximity to the African coast and its volcanic landscape.
MORE ARTICLES ABOUT THE WARMEST COUNTRIES IN EUROPE:
Top 10 WARMEST countries in Europe in April, RANKED
The top 10 WARMEST countries in Europe in JUNE
Top 5 warmest places in Europe in March
