10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Europe in May & June

• By: NomadSam
• May 02, 2025

The weather is warm but not sweltering, spring flowers are still in bloom, and many destinations are lively but not yet packed with peak-season crowds. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, an epic nature escape, or a cultural deep-dive, here are 10 unforgettable European destinations to explore in late spring and early summer.

🇫🇷 1. Paris, France – Springtime Romance at Its Finest

Paris in May and June is practically poetry in motion. The city comes alive with blooming flowers in the Luxembourg Gardens, open-air cafés buzzing with Parisians, and long golden evenings along the Seine. It’s the perfect time to see the Eiffel Tower with fewer lines, cruise the river at sunset, and savor a fresh croissant under blue skies.

Highlights:

• Picnicking near the Eiffel Tower
• Strolling through Montmartre in full bloom
• Sunset boat ride on the Seine

🇮🇹 2. Rome, Italy – Ancient Wonders Without the Heat

Visiting Rome in late spring means warm, comfortable weather and shorter queues at iconic landmarks. Explore 2,000 years of history at the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon before sipping espresso in a quiet piazza. In June, the city bursts into life with street music and outdoor dining, but without the oppressive heat of July and August.

Highlights:

• Early morning visit to the Vatican Museums
• Al fresco dinners in Trastevere
• Tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain

🇵🇹 3. Lisbon, Portugal – Colorful Hills & Coastal Breezes

Lisbon in May and June is drenched in sunshine, with mild coastal breezes and endless charm. Wander through cobbled alleyways, ride the iconic yellow Tram 28, and soak in panoramic views from hilltop miradouros. The local sardine festivals in June add a festive flair, with music and dancing in the streets of Alfama.

Highlights:

• Exploring the historic Belém district
• Eating pastéis de nata in the sun
• Rooftop drinks with city views

🇳🇱 4. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Late Tulips & Long Days

By May, Amsterdam is still enjoying the tail end of tulip season, and the city’s canals shimmer under long daylight hours. June brings lively festivals, open-air markets, and bike rides through flower-lined streets. It’s a wonderful time for museum-hopping and lazy canal cruises without the summer tourist crush.

Highlights:

• Visiting the Anne Frank House & Van Gogh Museum
• Biking through Vondelpark
• Cruising the canals at twilight

🇮🇹 5. Cinque Terre, Italy – Cliffside Charm Without the Crowds

Before summer’s peak, the five colorful villages of Cinque Terre are a peaceful paradise. Hike the scenic trails between towns, feast on fresh seafood, and swim in the clear Ligurian Sea. The coastal sunsets are jaw-dropping, and the slower pace in spring lets you truly savor this Italian gem.

Highlights:

• Hiking from Monterosso to Vernazza
• Aperitivo with a sea view in Manarola
• Exploring by boat between the villages

🇨🇭 6. Interlaken & Lauterbrunnen, Switzerland – Spring in the Alps

As the snow melts in the Swiss Alps, green valleys and thundering waterfalls take center stage. Interlaken is a perfect base for outdoor adventures, while nearby Lauterbrunnen feels like a real-life fairy tale with its 72 waterfalls and quaint wooden chalets. May and June offer mild weather and great visibility for scenic hikes and train rides.

Highlights:

• Riding the train to Jungfraujoch (“Top of Europe”)
• Hiking to Mürren or Gimmelwald
• Paragliding over the mountain valleys

🇭🇷 7. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia – Waterfalls in Full Flow

Spring rains and mild temperatures make May and June the best time to see the emerald lakes and cascading waterfalls of Plitvice. Wooden walkways wind through pristine forests and turquoise pools, offering one of the most magical nature experiences in Europe—with fewer tourists compared to July and August.

Highlights:

• Exploring the Upper and Lower Lakes trails
• Spotting wildlife in the national park
• Staying overnight in a cozy nearby village

🇸🇮 8. Lake Bled, Slovenia – A Storybook Escape

With its tiny island church and hilltop castle, Lake Bled is the stuff of travel fantasies. In late spring, the lake is surrounded by blooming greenery, perfect for rowing, biking, or simply soaking in the views. Slovenia’s manageable size makes it easy to combine Bled with day trips to Ljubljana or the Julian Alps.

Highlights:

• Rowing to Bled Island
• Hiking up to Ojstrica viewpoint
• Sampling Bled’s famous cream cake (kremšnita)

🇫🇷 9. Provence, France – Lavender, Vineyards & Timeless Villages

June marks the start of lavender season in Provence, transforming the countryside into waves of purple and green. Even before full bloom, the region offers warm weather, golden light, and delicious local fare. Charming hill towns like Gordes and Roussillon come to life with markets, festivals, and wine tastings.

Highlights:

• Driving through the Luberon villages
• Sipping rosé in a vineyard courtyard
• Visiting lavender fields near Valensole

🇮🇸 10. Iceland – Land of Light & Fire

Iceland is a dream for nature lovers, and in May and June, it offers up to 22 hours of daylight—a golden ticket for long road trips, waterfall hikes, and hot spring dips. It’s shoulder season, so you’ll encounter fewer tourists but still enjoy accessible roads and open attractions across the Ring Road.

Highlights:

• Driving the Golden Circle
• Relaxing in geothermal pools (like the Blue Lagoon or lesser-known ones)
• Spotting puffins and dramatic coastlines

✈️ Final Travel Tips:

• Weather prep: Always pack a light rain jacket and layers—European spring can be unpredictable.
• Book ahead: May and June are popular, especially in scenic regions like Cinque Terre and Provence.
• Stay flexible: Plan some activities but leave time for spontaneous strolls, cafés, and local markets.

Whether you’re craving coastal bliss, alpine air, or cultural immersion, Europe in May and June delivers magic at every turn. 🌍✨