Where to go in France in May? Our sunny ideas for your long weekends and bank holidays

It is the number one travel intention of the month. Everyone is looking for where to go in May to find sunshine and finally put winter coats away.

The Mediterranean (French Riviera, Camargue): the winning choice

If you are wondering where to go in May for warm weather, the Mediterranean is your best answer. On the French Riviera or in the Camargue, the climate already feels like summer. Temperatures of 20–25°C are common, lunches on sunny terraces are the norm and the promise of a sun-and-beach holiday becomes reality. It is summer ahead of schedule, without the July crowds.

The “fresh air” alternative: Atlantic Coast & Normandy

Want a big breath of sea air? The Atlantic Coast or Normandy are wonderful options in May. It is less about guaranteed “heat” and more about stunning scenery, walks on vast beaches and first sessions of surfing or sand yachting. It is also an ideal playground for hiking.

Can you swim in May in France?

This is the key question in May. You type « where to go in May to swim » and you are right to wonder.

The sea: still fresh for chilly swimmers!

The sea in France in May is invigorating. In the Mediterranean, it reaches 16–18°C. It is perfect for beach and sun (laying out your towel), but swimming is still reserved for the bravest.

The SOWELL guarantee: our heated pools for 100% pleasure

This is where SOWELL makes all the difference. Why choose between sunshine and swimming when you can have both? Our residences offer you both. Enjoy the first real sun on a lounger and then dive into water at 28°C. Most of our properties are equipped with heated outdoor (or indoor) pools open from spring onwards. It is our guarantee of 100% pleasure in the water, whatever the sea temperature.

The SOWELL guide to your May bank holidays and budget

May is the month of long weekends, but also the month of small budgets… if you plan it right.

The “long weekend” option: optimised 3, 4 or 5 days

With Ascension or Pentecost, it is easy to treat yourself to a long weekend. It is the ideal format (4 days, 5 days) for a SOWELL getaway on the Mediterranean. But be careful, these dates are the most in-demand: book early!

The “small budget” tip: go for a full week between the bank holidays

Here is the REAL good deal to travel cheaply in May in France. The “quiet” weeks between the long weekends are the cheapest of the whole season. You get sunshine, a heated pool, peace and quiet… and unbeatable prices. If you are flexible, this is the time to book a full 1-week stay.

The clever option: So’Inclusive for a surprise-free weekend

Travelling over a bank holiday also means dealing with fully booked restaurants and rising prices. Our All Inclusive So’Inclusive formula is the anti-stress solution. You control your budget 100% (meals, drinks and snacks included). Zero surprises at the end of your stay.

Travelling in May: as a couple, with the family or to go hiking?

With the family or with a baby

May is the perfect month to travel in May with the family, especially with a baby (outside school holidays). Our SOWELL residences offer the space and freedom of an apartment (equipped kitchen for bottles, separate bedroom, etc.) with the comfort of our services (pool, cleaning). It is the calm before the summer rush.

As a couple or on a romantic break

A long romantic weekend? This is the moment. A SOWELL hotel on the French Riviera, a spa, dinner on the terrace… It is the perfect romantic escape to reconnect.

For hiking enthusiasts

The “alternative” option. The mountains are waking up, Provence is in bloom. It is the perfect month for hiking before the intense summer heat. Our residences in Provence or in the Alps are an ideal base camp.

FAQ: your questions about travelling in May

Where is it warmest in France in May?

The places where you are most likely to reach 25°C are the French Riviera and Corsica. The Mediterranean is the safest bet for warm weather in May.

Can you really swim in the sea in May?

The water is still cool (16–18°C). It is manageable for the brave, but for guaranteed relaxing swims, we strongly recommend choosing one of our SOWELL hotels with a heated pool.

How can you travel cheaply in May?

The best plan is to book a full 1-week stay between the bank holiday weekends. If you travel over a long weekend, keep control of your on-site budget by choosing our All Inclusive So’Inclusive formula.