If you’re wondering where’s best for some pre-summer sun, then look no further. Are you wanting to avoid the soaring temperatures of the summer months and get a spring tan started? Whether it’s Greece, Turkey or Cyprus, or hopping to the Canary or Balearic Islands, we’ve lined up some cracking destinations to choose from for a magnificent May getaway.

Crete, Greece

Average May temperature: 23°C

Escape to the largest Greek island of Crete for a holiday packed with culture and sunny shores. May is the perfect time for history-lovers to explore sites here, such as the Knossos Palace or Aghios Nikolaos Harbour, because the temperatures haven't yet reached their scorching summer highs! The weather is also perfect for a family-friendly getaway. Take the kids to Heraklion Archaeological Museum, or for a fun-filled day at Aquaworld Aquarium for a spectacular spring holiday.

Antalya, Turkey

Average May temperature: 26°C

You’d struggle to find a more perfect destination to escape to in May than Antalya. With high spring temperatures, you don’t have to sacrifice the summer heat for a getaway a few months early. Located in Turkey’s southern Mediterranean region, Antalya boasts a mega 400-mile stretch of serene shores and azure waters, perfect for those looking for lazy days lounging in the sun.

Rhodes, Greece

Average May temperature: 23°C

With similar spring temperatures to Crete, Rhodes is another perfect Greek island for a May holiday. The gentle breeze off the Aegean at this time of year keeps you cool for exploring historical ruins or the Acropolis of Lindos. Rhodes has a beautiful Old Town that blossoms during the spring too. Visit attractions like the fountains, churches and medieval architecture and learn all about Rhodes’ fascinating traditions. Or why not head to one of the stunning pebbled beaches or indulge in traditional Greek cuisine during your magical May escape?

Larnaca Area, Cyprus

Average May temperature: 21°C

May is an ideal time to visit the Larnaca region of Cyprus, before the temperatures soar into the thirties for the summer. Historical landmarks are in abundance on the southern coast, so why not take a day trip to visit Larnaca Salt Lake or the ninth-century Church of St. Lazarus? Venture down to the picturesque promenade or find your perfect spot on the stretches of golden sand to enjoy the spring sunshine.

Majorca, Balearics

Average May temperature: 23°C

A spring getaway to the Balearics is never a bad idea, and Majorca in May is a thing of beauty! This island stays warm all year round, so the climate in May makes for warm oceans to swim in and sun-kissed sands to lounge on. Majorca draws a large crowd during the summer months, so visiting earlier is ideal if you’re seeking a peaceful stay. But there’s still plenty of fun for the whole family in May! The waterparks open in the spring and there are various all-inclusive hotels to choose from with fabulous live entertainment to please everyone!

Tenerife, Canaries

Average May temperature: 23°C

The Canary Islands boast similar temperatures to the Balearics, so you can expect a pleasant year-round climate. Tenerife is the largest of the Canaries and offers a fun-filled May getaway. It’s home to one of the most popular European waterparks, Siam Park, and May is the perfect time to visit as you can make the most of smaller queues and cooler temperatures. Explore all the island has to offer, from the dormant volcano of Mount Teide to the botanical gardens of Puerto de la Cruz. Or head to one of the stunning white-sand beaches to get that spring tan started!

Ibiza, Balearics

Average May temperature: 22°C

Start summer early with a trip to the White Isle. With the balmy weather of the Balearics, you can rest easy knowing days on the sand are almost guaranteed. Make the most of the stunning spring climate on the west coast at one of San Antonio Bay’s sandy coves or experience the tranquillity of Ibiza in Santa Eulalia and meander the marina for some waterfront shopping. Looking for neon nightlife? Catch the season's opening parties in San Antonio. You'll find something for everyone in this spring spectacular!

Corfu, Greece

Average May temperature: 23°C

Head to the sun-kissed sands of Corfu and avoid getting drenched in that UK drizzle. Corfu is a melting pot of natural beauty waiting to be explored, from idyllic sandy coves to the historical Old Town, this Greek gem is the perfect May destination. The start of the month sees Corfu Old Town come alive for the island’s annual Labour Day, Protomagia. Doors dressed in flowery wreaths, parades down the cobbled streets and food and drink spilling from all restaurants and cafés, this is a spring celebration not to be missed!

Halkidiki, Greece

Average May temperature: 23°C

If you’re after the perfect beachy break in May, Halkidiki’s your answer! With its just-right temperatures and silky sands, you’ll be oh-so-relaxed lounging your days away here. There’s a whopping 550km of serene shoreline to take your pick from, so dips in the azure Aegean waters and lazing on honey-hued sands should be top of the agenda! Take day trips to Mount Olympus or learn all about the island's history at Mount Athos. The best thing? You’ll get to see all the historical hotspots of Halkidiki without the summer crowds!

Bodrum, Turkey

Average May temperature: 26°C

Temperatures in May are teetering into the mid-twenties in Bodrum, so it’s the perfect time for both sunbathing and sightseeing without the soaring summer heat. Bodrum is one of Turkey’s most tempting treasures, with its charming harbour and ancient theatre which still stands with some of the original structures from the fourth century BC! Visit the chic cocktail bars lining the shore or indulge in local delicacies at one of the many delightful restaurants. There's plenty to entertain the kids too if your May getaway is a family-filled one!