Budget Holidays in May: 8 Affordable Getaways in France and Beyond

As the days stretch out, thoughts turn to long bank holiday weekends and well-timed getaways before the summer break. The same question comes up each year: where to go in May for a taste of summer without the crowds or the high prices? Here are eight destinations offering easy-to-plan, budget holidays in May, with a welcome change of scene ahead of the peak summer rush.

May marks the return of longer days, milder temperatures and a simple desire: to enjoy the sun without the crowds or the high-season prices. Across France, several destinations lend themselves perfectly to a sunny escape that is easy to organise and still affordable, especially outside the school holidays.

In May, Ajaccio on the French island of Corsica offers an ideal setting, with blue skies, temperatures between 20 and 23°C, and a relaxed pace far removed from the summer rush. Enjoy a getaway that alternates between exploring the town and savouring the first moments by the sea. In the morning, wander through the market at Place Foch, then follow the Route des Sanguinaires to discover sun-drenched coves along the coastline.

Around Ajaccio, those feeling more adventurous can even take an early dip. The water is still cool at 18 to 19°C, but wonderfully refreshing!

For a simple and affordable stay, ibis budget Ajaccio is an excellent base. Ideally located for discovering the town and its surroundings without stretching your budget, it allows you to focus on experiences rather than accommodation.

For a simple and affordable stay, ibis budget Ajaccio is an excellent base. Ideally located for discovering the town and its surroundings without stretching your budget, it allows you to focus on experiences rather than accommodation.

If you’re planning a budget holiday in May and wondering where to go for sunshine in France, Aix-en-Provence ticks every box. The city is easy to reach by train or car, with pleasantly warm weather, lively terraces and light that brings out the rich ochre tones of the historic centre. Stroll along Cours Mirabeau, visit Cézanne’s studio or head out for a few hours to Montagne Sainte-Victoire, especially if you’re planning a walking break.

Enjoy the Provençal sunshine at ibis Aix-en-Provence, a comfortable pied-à-terre for exploring both the town and the surrounding countryside, with the added bonus of Nomad restaurant, open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.

Travelling in May is all about making smart choices and keeping your holiday spending under control. At this time of year, prices remain reasonable, transport is more accessible and cities feel more relaxed before the summer crowds arrive. Where budget holidays in May are concerned, some destinations strike the perfect balance between affordability, pleasant surroundings and activities that are free or easy on the wallet.

Breathe in the fresh sea air with a stay at ibis budget La Rochelle Centre Gare. In May, the city has plenty to offer: the historic centre begins to come alive, terraces fill up and the towers at the entrance to the Old Port stand out beautifully in the light.

Everything can be explored on foot or by bike, making it easy to keep costs down while discovering more of the city. Stroll along the harbour channel, pause by the ocean at Plage de la Concurrence or enjoy an off-season escape to Île de Ré. The perfect balance between a chance to get away and a manageable budget.

At just 90 minutes from Paris by TGV, Nancy makes an ideal May getaway, with its manageable size and easy-going atmosphere. Start your day early on Place Stanislas, where the light brings out the beauty of the classical façades and gilded gates, revealing every detail. Continue on foot to Parc de la Pépinière for a shaded break, then follow the River Meurthe to shift the pace and find yourself surrounded by nature.

For a practical and economical stay, choose ibis budget Nancy Laxou. Its modern, functional rooms can accommodate up to five people, leaving you with more to spend on enjoying the city. And with free parking on site, it’s also a convenient option if you’re travelling by car.

Europe’s capital cities take on a different rhythm in May. Days grow longer, parks turn green again and terraces fill with life. With bank holidays and long weekends scattered throughout the month, it’s even possible to plan a getaway without taking extra time off – perfect for a budget holiday abroad in May without travelling too far or staying away for too long.

Less than 90 minutes from Paris by Eurostar, Brussels is a destination of choice for a well-planned long May weekend. Arrive in the morning, drop your bags and head straight out to explore. Start with the historic centre, from the Grand Place and the Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert with its striking architecture to the Marolles district for browsing antiques or stopping for a drink. In the mood for some greenery? Head to the Royal Park for a break or a picnic.

For a stay just outside the city centre while remaining well connected, ibis Brussels Centre Gare Midi makes it easy to get around, with the added comfort of an affordable room to return to in the evening.

In London, certain areas capture everything that makes the British capital so appealing. In May, they can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace, alternating between city walks and green escapes. There are plenty of highlights to include in your itinerary. Follow the Thames from South Bank to Millennium Bridge, then step inside Tate Modern, a free museum seamlessly woven into the urban landscape. Cross the bridge for views of St. Paul’s Cathedral, or wander through Borough Market for a quick bite before heading to Covent Garden or Soho for their lively atmosphere and street performances.

All of these walks and visits can easily be done on foot from ibis Styles London Southwark near Borough Market, an affordable hotel with a loft-style feel, ideally located less than 100 metres from the Thames.
 

For a different pace, ibis London Sutton Point offers an alternative way to experience the capital. Located in south London, it’s a great option if you prefer a quieter setting, more space and lower rates. Well connected to the centre by train, it allows you to enjoy the city by day before returning to a more peaceful environment in the evening.

In May, some destinations already offer the chance to enjoy an early dip. Sunshine is a given, beaches remain relatively uncrowded and the water provides a welcome moment of relaxation. If you’re looking to combine warmth, the coast and a change of scenery without waiting for summer, two destinations stand out for budget holidays abroad in May.

With temperatures around 25°C, Málaga in May already feels like summer. The beaches are open and the Mediterranean, at around 18 to 19°C, is refreshingly cool for a midday swim. Start at Playa de la Malagueta, within easy reach of the city centre, then continue to Pedregalejo for a more local atmosphere.

Just steps from the historic centre, ibis Malaga Centro Ciudad offers modern, air-conditioned rooms, a 24-hour bar and a full breakfast. A well-located and affordable base for enjoying Malaga in May, from beach days to city strolls and evenings out.

If you’re looking for a great off-season deal in May, Morocco could be your next destination. Head to El Jadida on the coast, around 100 kilometres southwest of Casablanca. Spend your mornings exploring the port town, then your afternoons in the water or strolling along the Atlantic shoreline. At this time of year, the beach is wide and uncrowded, offering a relaxed setting with a distinctly summery feel.

Stay at ibis El Jadida, an ideal base for discovering this former Portuguese city, now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while enjoying all the ocean has to offer.