5 Summer Getaways You Can Still Book in May

If summer is fast approaching and you haven’t locked in your travel plans yet, don’t worry, you still have some excellent options for an overseas adventure.
 

While headline destinations like Santorini or the Amalfi Coast are often fully booked (and at their most crowded) by late spring, there are still incredible coastal regions across southern Europe that offer just as much beauty, culture, and culinary appeal – often with more availability and a more relaxed pace.
 

The key is knowing where to look.
 

Below, we’re sharing five of our favorite under-the-radar summer escapes you could still book last-minute. These are perfect for anyone craving seaside charm, warm weather, and a sense of discovery.

 

Photos by Claudio Poggio , Mário Rui André on Unsplash

 

Normandy Coast, France

 

For a different kind of summer by the sea, head to the north of France, to the elegant coastline of Normandy.

 

Just a couple of hours from Paris, towns like Deauville and Cabourg offer wide sandy beaches, Belle Époque architecture, and a refined, low-key atmosphere. Think long seaside promenades, striped beach umbrellas, fresh oysters, and crisp white wine rather than beach clubs and late-night crowds.

 

This region is an ideal choice for travelers who want coastal scenery with a cultural twist, pairing beautifully with the historic D-Day beaches and also time in Paris. Plus, it tends to have more last-minute availability than southern France.

 

Photos by Ilnur Kalimullin , AXP Photography , Tom Delanoue on Unsplash and Pexels

 

 

Puglia, Italy

 

If your perfect summer involves olive groves, turquoise waters, and slow, sun-drenched days, Puglia delivers.

 

Located to the deep south in the heel of Italy’s boot, this region feels both authentic and quietly luxurious. Whitewashed towns like Ostuni and the trulli-filled village of Alberobello create a striking backdrop, while the Adriatic coastline offers everything from rocky coves and cliffs to sandy beaches and boat trips.

 

Food is a definite highlight here – simple, local, and incredibly fresh. And because Puglia is more spread out than Italy’s better-known coastal regions, it’s often still possible to secure beautiful boutique stays even closer to summer. This would be a great choice for foodies.

 

Photos by Massimo Virgilio , Taisha Ellison , Lucia Gherra on Unsplash

 

 

Alentejo Coast, Portugal

 

South of Lisbon but worlds away in atmosphere, the Alentejo Coast is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Long known by serious surfers and hikers, it still maintains its untouched, rugged spirit, now with jet-set approval.

 

This stretch of coastline is defined by dramatic cliffs, wild dune beaches, and a sense of unspoiled natural beauty. Small towns like Vila Nova de Milfontes, Melides and Comporta offer a laid-back, barefoot elegance. Choose your experience from design-forward guesthouses to luxury five-star resorts, and the best seafood whether gourmet dining or a more local spot.

 

This is the perfect getaway for travelers who want space, scenery, and a slower rhythm, without sacrificing style.

 

Photos by Patrick Langwallner , João Rodrigues , Roman K. on Unsplash and Pexels

 

 

Menorca Island, Spain

 

Often overshadowed by its Balearic neighbors, tiny Menorca is a dream for those seeking a more relaxed island escape. Visitors can arrive by plane from mainland Europe, or take a direct ferry from Barcelona.

 

Known for its crystal-clear, sheltered coves (calas), turquoise waters, and protected natural landscapes, Menorca offers a quieter, more refined alternative to Ibiza or Mallorca. Days here are spent beach-hopping, swimming, and lingering over long seaside lunches.

 

Charming towns like Ciutadella add a cultural dimension, with historic streets, small squares, and excellent local dining. This island is the perfect choice for a calm, nature-focused getaway.

 

Photos by Laura Velasco , Jimmy Hassa , luciano prats on Unsplash

 

 

Kefalonia Island, Greece

 

For a Greek island that still feels authentic and spacious in peak season, consider Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea.

 

Larger and more rugged than many of its counterparts, Kefalonia is known for its dramatic landscapes – think towering cliffs, pine forests, and some of the most striking beaches in Greece, like the white sands of Myrtos.

 

You’ll find a relaxed pace of life, welcoming tavernas, and more room to roam without the intensity of the country’s more famous islands. This is an especially good option for travelers who want both beach time and the fun of exploring by car.

 

Photos by Mac McDade , Jonas Fink , Rafael Hoyos Weht on Unsplash

 

 

A Final Note on Timing

 

If you’re planning a last-minute summer trip, timing matters.

 

August is the busiest and hottest month across much of southern Europe, as locals use their vacation days and popular destinations reach peak capacity. For a more enjoyable experience, we recommend traveling in June, July, or particularly September, when the weather is still beautiful and the atmosphere more serene.

 

 

Leave the Details to Us

 

Planning a last-minute trip to Europe can feel overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be.

 

With our on-the-ground expertise and trusted local partners, we specialize in crafting seamless, customized itineraries – even on shorter timelines. From boutique hotels to private experiences, we’ll help you find the right destination and make it happen.

 

Don’t wait too long! Give us a call, and one of our travel specialists can start planning your summer escape.

 

Photos by Joao Branco , H Matias on Unsplash and Pexels