Denise
Travel Specialist
Your holiday always includes
- Premium lounge passes at UK airports
- VIP meet & greet service at departure
- Private transfers to and from your hotel
- Personal concierge service throughout
- 24/7 assistance when travelling
- The first-hand knowledge of our team
When are the May half term holidays 2026?
The holidays are Monday 25 May - Friday 29 May 2026.
Where should I go with my family during the May half term holidays?
Enjoy an unforgettable May half term holiday to any of these incredible destinations. Our experts have selected their top picks for places to go during this week-long school holiday, showcasing a range of experiences, temperatures and flight durations to keep the whole family smiling.
Greece
Average temperatures: Highs of 25°C
Time difference: 2 hours ahead of the UK (GMT +2 hours)
Flight duration: Between 3 - 4 hours
Rainfall: 3 days of rain on average in May
Thousands of years of history, breathtaking natural landscapes, long, golden beaches, alongside a laid-back culture and vibrant cuisine. If this sounds like your dream escape from the rigours of regular life, then a May trip to Greece should appeal to you in spades. With innumerable ways to experience Greece, talk to one of our Travel Specialists to tailor-make your perfect holiday.
Cyprus
Average temperatures: Highs of 30°C
Time difference: 2 hours ahead of the UK (GMT +2 hours)
Flight duration: Between 4 - 5 hours
Rainfall: 1 day of rain on average in May
Cyprus proves that great things can indeed come in small packages, as this island paradise has everything that you’ll need for an unforgettable family holiday. From cities packed with culture, history, and boutique shopping, to landscapes with barely believable beauty and an idyllic coastline that is very literally the stuff of legends.
Portugal
Average temperatures: Highs of 22°C
Time difference: None
Flight duration: Between 2 hours 30 minutes - 3 hours
Rainfall: 10 days of rain on average in May
Portugal is the home to both sleepy, authentic towns, and bustling cities with chic shopping and contemporary activities. One thing they both have in common – they are a haven for family activities and memory making. With no time differences and a climate that is the perfect temperature for swimming, but not so hot that the pool is your only sanctuary, Portugal is a must-visit May half term holiday.
Antigua
Average temperatures: Highs of 30°C
Time difference: 4 hours behind the UK (GMT -4 hours)
Flight duration: Approx. 8 hours 40 minutes
Rainfall: 9 days of rain on average in May
If the sound of ocean is something that calls to you, then this castaway island paradise could well be your dream destination. Perfect for families and couples alike, this small Caribbean island boasts incredible coves and caves that lend themselves to both exciting watersports, quiet, romantic moments with the waves lapping the shore nearby and a host of other incredible things to do.
Maldives
Average temperatures: Highs of 31°C
Time difference: 4 hours ahead of the UK (GMT +4 hours)
Flight duration: Approx. 10 hours
Rainfall: 15 days of rain on average in May
White-sand beaches, azure waters and colourful reefs make the Maldives the perfect spot for families on a luxury beachside getaway. Although the monsoon season begins towards the end of May, downpours are uncommon, and temperatures remain high. This time of the year is also off season so you can have this tranquil slice of paradise almost to yourself.
Canary Islands
Average temperatures: Highs of 25°C
Time difference: No time difference
Flight duration: Between 4-5 hours (island dependent)
Rainfall: 1-2days of rain on average in May
As May half term breaks go, it doesn't come any more convenient than the Canary Islands. Whether you're jetting off with the kids to the volcanic moonscapes of Lanzarote or the golden beaches of Gran Canaria — these islands are blessed with plenty of sunshine, lots of family-friendly resorts, and a range of holiday parks, including Siam waterpark on Tenerife. Plus, they offer short flight durations for those with restless little ones.
Balearic Islands
Average temperatures: Highs of 23°C
Time difference: 1 hours ahead of the UK (GMT +1 hour)
Flight duration: Between 2 hours 30 minutes - 3 hours (island dependent)
Rainfall: 4-9 days of rain on average in May
Before the peak season crowds of summer, Spain's Balearic Islands offer an ideal getaway for families during half term. Head to Mallorca, Menorca or Ibiza for week of exciting island adventures and beachside bonding. With a huge range of luxury family resorts to choose from, make the school holidays and your annual leave go further in 2025 with a well-timed escape in May.
Dubai
Average temperatures: Highs of 36°C
Time difference: 3 hours ahead of UK (GTM +3 hours)
Flight duration: Approx. 7 hours
Rainfall: 1 day of rain on average in May
There's so much for families to do in Dubai. Whether you're travelling with young children or teenagers, this enchanting Middle Eastern city has got you covered. Spends some time exploring the Dubai desert on a dune buggy expedition, unwind on the city's pristine beach, or enjoy the ultimate fun-in-the-sun adventure holiday at Atlantis Aquaventure — the world's largest waterpark with over 105 attractions!
Start tailoring your holiday today
We take the time to truly understand what you want from your holiday. That way, we can create a personally tailor-made experience that you won't find anywhere else. Start today by speaking with our team and we'll create a holiday that really is all about you.
Tailor your bespoke holiday today
You can speak to our team now to start planning your personalised travel experience.
Monday - Friday: 9am - 7:30pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 10am - 4pm
