Dreaming of a spring escape without breaking the bank? These stunning destinations offer sunshine, culture and serious savings – perfect for savvy travellers looking to beat the crowds
by Alicia Miller
Tokyo, Japan
Busy cherry blossom period is over, but the sticky summertime heat hasn’t yet hit. Mid-to-late May is a gorgeous time to jet off to Japan – the weather is sublime and tourists are comparatively thin on the ground. Fly into Tokyo then strike out to less-explored corners, such as holy Mount Koya, where you can bed down in inexpensive temple stays, the striking mountainous terrain of affordable Toyama, or former samurai stronghold Kakunodate, home to charming Edo-era architecture. May also marks the beginning of the Japanese festival season, where you can catch the traditional Sanja Matsuri festivities in Tokyo’s Asakusa. The joyous riot of music, dance and bobbing shrines is loads of fun and entirely free to attend.
Lake Como, Italy
After hosting the Winter Olympics this February, Milan – and its famous neighbouring lake – is in the spotlight. However, visit in summer and you’ll encounter high prices and tourist hordes (many hoping to spot Como villa owner George Clooney). Come in May before the season hots up, however, and room rates are down, the lake is magical in its tranquillity and springtime’s mild weather has coaxed garden buds into blossom. Pair a few days on the lakeside with time in the city, where walks through the Parco Sempione and Giardini Indro Montanelli bookmark days in the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery and Campari spritzes by the iconic Duomo
Riviera Maya, Mexico
Prices on this paradisical stretch of Mexican coast take a dip in May shoulder season, before kids are out of school but after the winter sun masses have departed. Take advantage of the friendly resort prices to stay longer and explore the region, swimming in crystalline cenotes (sinkholes), exploring ruins cloaked in jungle and sipping margaritas in trendy beach enclaves such as Tulum. Fly into Cancún to begin the adventure, then consider hiring a car so you can take things at your own pace.
Peloponnese, Greece
May is the ideal time to get your Greek fix. The resort season has started, temperatures are more moderate than in sultry summertime and fewer visitors mean reasonable prices. From 22 May, British Airways operates direct daily flights to Kalamata, gateway to the underrated Peloponnese – home to landmark sites such as ancient Olympia and Mycenae. With highs hovering in the mid-20s, it’s both warm enough to hit the beach (curvaceous white-sand Simos is the local Instagram fave) yet still cool enough to tackle the vertiginous hiking trails of the rugged inland.
Toronto, Canada
Following a long and cold winter Canada’s largest city bursts into life in May, with plenty of blue sky backdropping its eclectic, strollable neighbourhoods. Meander through the boutique-lined streets around trendy Queen Street West, toast alfresco drinks in the Distillery District or walk along the boardwalk that lines aptly named The Beaches. Before peak summer tourist season arrives – as well as the throng descending for FIFA’s 2026 World Cup – now is also a great time to explore the nearby wine regions of Prince Edward County and Niagara, or cottage country corners such as Muskoka and Kawartha Lakes.
Burgundy, France
Autumn prices are high and harvest dates unpredictable, so why not consider a wine region holiday in affordable springtime, instead? By May, Burgundy’s vineyards are lined with green leaves and promising buds, with inviting sun the accompaniment as you wander between the rows. Once you’ve had your fill of Pinot Noir tastings, Burgundian capital Lyon awaits for a city break. This time of year, popular Paul Bocuse indoor market is bursting with springtime produce and the café-lined squares buzz with locals downing espressos.