12 Cheap Warm Destinations in the World in May for Sun, Sand, and Savings

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You don’t have to spend much money to travel somewhere warm when spring transitions to summer. You can find cheap, warm destinations in the world in May if you know where to look.

In the Northern Hemisphere, May is the transition to summer, and in the South, winter. No matter which side of the globe you live, it is a great time to travel somewhere warm without breaking the bank.

From tropical beaches to mountain escapes, there are plenty of cheap destinations waiting for you. Below are 12 cheap warm destinations in the world in May so you can plan your perfect trip.

Cancún, Mexico

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Cancún is a beachside playground for locals and foreigners, and it’s still one of the most affordable vacation destinations in the world. The city stays hot and humid in May, with temperatures above 27° C (80° F) even at night.

You can find cheap accommodation at all-inclusive resorts or short-term rentals near the beach. Food is also cheap, with taco stands, restaurants, and street food costing very little.

If you get bored of all the relaxing by the beach, Cancún is the perfect home base for visiting the nearby historical sites such as Chichén-Itzá and Tulum. With just a cheap bus or even train ticket, you can be standing at the base of an ancient Mayan pyramid.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is the epitome of cheap, warm destinations. It has some of the world’s best food, hot weather, and a massive concentration of tourist sights and experiences just waiting for you.

Start by taking a river boat on the Chao Phraya River to see the city’s famous landmarks, such as the temple of Wat Arun. Then, get off at the Grand Palace and visit the temples of the historic old center of the city, Phra Nakhon.

Afterward, head to the new neighborhood of Sathon for incredible gourmet cuisine for cheap. Then, walk around Lumphini Park to see wildlife and tropical gardens. If you want even more adventures, take a trip to the coast of nearby Pattaya City for scuba diving and boating.

Rio de Janerio, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is a South American city that turns on in May. As cities further south feel the chill, this coastal city stays around 27° C (81° F).

In addition to the warm weather, Rio is an affordable destination with cheap food, inexpensive hotels, and short-term rentals near the beach.

When you’re not sitting on the sand sipping on caipirinhas, you can visit the city’s iconic monuments, such as Christ the Redeemer and the Museum of Tomorrow. May is also the perfect season to climb the nearby mountains and enjoy Rio’s fabulous hiking and even hang gliding.

Croatia

Croatia’s beaches, islands, and historical landmarks attract millions of tourists every year. In May, it starts to warm up, and you can find great deals before the summer tourism season kicks in.

Imagine island-hopping on the Adriatic Sea, from Dubrovnik to Hvar. You’ll wander through cobblestone streets and enjoy excellent seafood at a beachside cafe without spending much money.

As you travel inland, the prices generally get cheaper. You can explore the country’s hiking trails and charming wine regions or even stay at a lovely cottage for a fraction of the cost of Western European destinations.

Jeju-do, Korea

Jeju is an island off the coast of Korea with gorgeous beaches and incredible sights. May is just before the summer tourism season, and prices are remarkably low. You can enjoy delicious food and coastal hotels or short-term rentals for cheap.

The weather on the island stays around 20° C (68° F). You’ll also miss the monsoons of early summer, which can dump rain on the island. With this perfect weather, you can enjoy activities such as hiking, scuba diving, or waterfall viewing.

The flowers that take over the island make May even more special. Parks, forests, and neighborhoods transform into vivid patterns of floral colors, perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

Da Nang, Vietnam

Da Nang is a cheap tropical beach destination with amazing food, friendly people, and endless history. You can lounge on the beach or tour the countryside, exploring caves, temples, and monstrous waterfalls.

The city itself is highly affordable, with cheap accommodation right on the water. May is the perfect time to enjoy scuba diving in the reefs that surround the offshore islands.

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The month stays relatively dry, with temperatures well over 25° C (77° F) even at night. When you’re there, do as the locals do and grab a chair at a crowded street food stand, order a deep bowl of ‘whatever they’re having,’ and sink into a food coma.

Crete, Greece

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Crete is a warm-weather destination with endless history and affordable prices. You can eat like royalty without breaking the bank and stay at a seaside hotel or rental before the waves of summer tourists arrive.

Start your Crete adventure in Rethinmo and explore the ruins of the Old Town. Check out the ruins of the Venetian Fortezza Castle and see the Archaeological Museum of Rethymnon. Or, drive to the cities of Heraklion and Chania for more history-rich experiences.

Afterward, hit the beaches to enjoy the warm Mediterranean. Then, drive through the countryside and visit vineyards and ancient villages full of charming restaurants. For more adventures, hike the trails of the White Mountains Forest Preserve for epic views and endless natural highlights.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh is a desert city rich in history and culture. It’s also very cheap, and in May, the temperature stays above 22° C (72° F).

With just a t-shirt, you’ll be able to walk through the city’s ancient streets and see landmarks such as the Bahia Palace and 16th-century Badi Palace. Afterward, you can eat tajine and other specialties for cheap at a local restaurant.

Outside the city, you can go on desert tours and hiking adventures into the Atlas Mountains. Because of its desert location, you won’t have to worry about rain.

New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

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New Orleans is a beautiful and affordable destination in May, full of culture and history. You’ll miss the balmy weather of summer and experience temperatures above 22° C (72° F) even at night.

Start your adventure in the French Quarter and see the home of Jazz. You can spend the night dancing until you drop before getting up early for a historical city tour.

Nearby, you can explore the bayou swamps and see live alligators in their natural habitat. Between your adventures, try as much affordable and divine Cajun food as you can.

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a cheap, warm, and infinitely beautiful destination in May if you can find an affordable flight. It has plenty of temples and historical sights to experience, plus some of the most striking natural attractions in the world.

Don’t miss the spiritual centers and gardens of Ubud. Or, hit the beaches of Kuta for parties and nightlife. Don’t miss landmarks such as the gorgeous Uluwatu Temple or Tanah Lot.

Head north to hike the beautiful hills surrounding the Mount Agung volcano for more adventures. Then, make your way to the sights and temples around Danau Batar.

Antalya, Türkiye

Antalya is a resort city in the south of Türkiye that has warm weather and low prices in May. You’ll be able to enjoy temperatures over 22° C (72° F) and pleasant weather most days.

Start your visit to the ancient city center. You’ll walk along cobblestone streets and see monuments such as the Sehzade Korkut Mosque and the Roman Hidirlik Tower.

Afterward, head to the beaches and take a dip in the Mediterranean. Or, take a drive into the mountains of Doyran for epic views and hiking.

Montenegro

Montenegro is another cheap warm-weather destination in the Balkans. You’ll find affordable beachside hotels, inns, and short-term rentals that rival anywhere in Europe. Plus, the food is delicious and very cheap.

Start by driving along the coast in the Bay of Kotor. Here, you’ll see some of Europe’s most stunning coastal scenery, including the town of Perast and its off-shore islands.

Then, drive to the ancient city of Kotor. Walk through the old city center and see the medieval architecture. Then, hike up to the Kotor Fortress for unparalleled views of the bay and the striking landscape.

You’ll enjoy temperatures over 22° C (72° F) and pleasant sea temperatures. For even more beachside attractions and warm weather, head to the city of Budva and live it up on one of Europe’s most underrated coastlines.