4 ideas for a May getaway with kids
Long May and June weekends are just around the corner, so it’s probably high time to start planning them ❤️ Since this is a wonderful period for unforgettable family holidays in southern Europe, here are a few ideas for the perfect May trip with kids. I’d happily return to each of these places even tomorrow 😉
Andalusian pueblos blancos
Andalusia in May sounds like a dream, and one of the essences of this region in southern Spain are the pueblos blancos – characteristic white towns scattered across the hills. One that definitely makes an impression is Setenil de las Bodegas, an architecturally unique place best known for photos where a massive rock literally “rests” on buildings and cuts through the streets. Due to its location along a river gorge, many houses – and even entire rows of them – are built directly into rock walls, often created by enlarging natural caves. At the peak of the season it’s certainly very touristy, but in May it’s inspiring and perfect even just for a stroll and a coffee with a view.
Not far from Setenil lies the famous Ronda – a town perched on both sides of the Guadalevín River. Packed with historical landmarks, it’s connected by the spectacular Puente Nuevo bridge, which makes it truly one of a kind. Ronda, seen both from the bottom of the El Tajo gorge and from above on either side, is breathtaking – and it’s no wonder the rows of houses perched on the cliff edge, combined with the towering, distinctive bridge, are photographed from every angle. A magical place!
As for white Andalusian towns, I’ve also written about beautiful Cádiz, the fairytale-like Vejer de la Frontera, and tiny villages hidden in the Sierra Nevada mountains. All of these are perfect for a May getaway with kids! And since you’re already nearby, it would be a shame not to pop over to the Andalusian coast—the iconic Costa del Sol. I’m not a huge fan of this part of Spain, but the white seaside towns like Mijas Pueblo or Nerja are definitely worth a visit.
Biograd na Moru in Croatia
In central Croatia (you can read about the south in articles on Dubrovnik and Hvar), near historic Zadar – which is also well worth visiting – you’ll find the lively port town of Biograd na Moru. I think small port towns have a soul, and Biograd is no exception. This elegant town with a well-kept promenade and delicious food is an idea for a truly perfect May holiday.
In the deeply indented bays, you’ll find beaches that are absolutely ideal for children – spacious, with crystal-clear water and a veeeeeery gentle entry into the sea. Surrounded by lush green pine forests, family time at Soline, Lumbrak, or Pilatuša beaches is pure bliss (with all amenities on site!). I can never say enough good things about Dalmatia – it’s truly a unique coastline in Europe. And Biograd na Moru holds a special place in my heart; it’s a real gem of the Zadar region and a dream destination for a family holiday in May.
Lugano – still Switzerland or already Italy?
This beautiful city is in Switzerland (you can read about hiking in the Swiss Alps with kids here and here), but it feels completely Italian. Lugano is located in the Italian-speaking canton of Ticino, surrounded by rolling green hills and set on a picturesque lake of the same name. You can swim here in crystal-clear water with stunning views stretching to the horizon.
It’s worth taking a boat to the nearby charming village of Gandria, which looks as if it’s cascading straight from the hillside into the lake. In the city itself, it’s lovely to stroll along the promenades, through greenery and lakeside parks – and there are plenty of playgrounds too! You can take a funicular up to Monte Brè or Monte San Salvatore, both offering truly romantic views at sunset.
Lugano has a distinctly Italian atmosphere, and only occasionally do you remember you’re actually in Switzerland 😉 You’ll enjoy delicious regional dishes and authentic Italian gelato. Another great perk is the bus that takes you in under an hour to atmospheric Italian towns on the dazzling Lake Como, with views of the snow-capped Alps.
Valletta – the capital of Malta and sunshine
“Over 300 sunny days a year! The sunniest capital in Europe!” – that’s what Malta’s brochures say. And in this case, they’re telling the truth 😉 May and early June in Malta are wonderful. Valletta is an absolutely fantastic spot for a few days’ city break – buzzing, lively, and full of cultural and entertainment options.
The city itself is essentially one grand fortress set on rock, also worth seeing from the sea during a short cruise. You can spend hours wandering through its elegant streets, and I truly recommend staying somewhere atmospheric right in the historic center. Centuries-old forts, churches, palaces, and gardens make for long, fascinating walks through this remarkable city.
The holiday vibe is completed by fountains just waiting for little hands and feet – and towering palm trees. Beyond Valletta, I definitely recommend visiting Mdina, the island’s former capital, whose layout makes you feel like you’re inside a real fortress. It’s also easier to find shade in its narrow streets 😉
Among places easily reachable with kids by public transport, it’s worth taking a walk along the majestic Dingli Cliffs, visiting the picturesque fishing village of Marsaxlokk, or swimming in the crystal-clear waters of St. Peter’s Pool, where you can jump straight in from the surrounding flat rocks. Valletta and its surroundings offer the chance for a perfect short family holiday – without needing a car 😉
I think these four ideas for a family May getaway could be a real hit! Plan your trip with kids today and enjoy quality family time without the crowds in some of Europe’s most beautiful corners ❤️
This post is about: family vacation 🌎 travelling with kids 🌎 May long weekend 🌎 long weekend 🌎 city-break 🌎 Lugano 🌎 Ticino 🌎 Gandria 🌎 Monte Bre 🌎 Monte San Salvatore 🌎 Biograd na Moru 🌎 Zadar 🌎 Kornati 🌎 Solina 🌎 pueblos blancos 🌎 Ronda 🌎 Setenil de las Bodegas 🌎 Andalusia 🌎 Malta 🌎 Valletta 🌎 Dalmatia 🌎 Mijas 🌎 St.Peter's Pool 🌎 Mdina 🌎 Dingli Cliffs 🌎 Marsaxlokk