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While the days in the UK may be gradually longer and the weather slightly warmer, there are still much warmer destinations you can fly direct from London to.
Anticipate the school holiday rush by departing in May and you’ll be rewarded with sunny destinations without the crowds.
For some inspiration, here are eight holiday destinations you can fly direct to from London in May, all with average temperatures of 20C or higher in May.
Rhodes, 22℃
With direct return flights from London Stansted, you can visit the largest of the Greek Dodecanese Islands.
Known for its beaches and various ruined churches and castles, there is plenty to do and plenty of places to relax if all you want to do is nothing.
Take a dip in the Mediterranean or enjoy delicious Greek cuisine as you explore Rhodes.
Formentera, 23℃
Often overshadowed by its party-loving neighbour, Ibiza, Formentera is much loved for its long beaches and clear water, making it the perfect island for beach holidays.
The Spanish island is ideal for snorkelling and sailing, with equipment hire and boat charters available.
Furthermore, temperatures are often hotter than in mainland Spain, although they are also more unpredictable at times.
Madrid, 22℃
If you prefer an escape from the city, Madrid has the same Spanish warmth, but also offers shops, restaurants and all the other city comforts.
It is known for its rich collections of European art, including the Prado Museum’s works by Goya, Velázquez and other Spanish masters.
However, the streets of Madrid themselves are art in themselves, with various architectural styles lining the streets.
Lisbon, 22℃
For a coastal city, Lisbon is remarkably hilly, so be prepared for a hike.
Still, the city’s sights are well worth the workout, with the pastel-colored buildings of the Old Town providing a stunning backdrop.
Plus, there’s a number of stunning beaches just a short walk from the city and ready for you to conquer.
Athens, 25℃
Once the heart of Ancient Greece, a mighty civilization and empire, there is much history to discover in Athens.
From the tips of the Acropolis to the now exposed ruins of the Forum, the sun-bleached stones of the old city will keep you entertained all day long.
Plus, there’s plenty of food and drink to try in the sprawling Greek capital, plus easy access to other Greek islands.
Handsome, 20℃
As the capital of the Alpes-Maritimes department on the French Riviera, Nice values its location on the pebbled shores of the Baie des Anges.
Once founded by the Greeks, Nice captures the same Mediterranean pace of life, having later acted as a refuge for the 19th century European elite.
There’s also a long artistic history in the city, with former resident Henri Matisse remembered through a collection of paintings at the Musée Matisse.
San Francisco, 20℃
If you feel like going a little further, why not cross the pond to San Francisco?
The streets filled with trolleys are a sight in themselves, but make sure you also visit the Golden Gate, Alcatraz and other famous places.
At 20℃, this is the perfect time to visit the city before the sweltering summer months.
Rome, 24℃
Another ancient city ready to be explored, Rome has the Colosseum, a vibrant street life and some of the best Italian cuisine.
As the capital, it is a metropolitan center that offers everything from spas to museums, galleries to bars.
The Amalfi Coast and Pompeii are also all within a day trip.
