Benchmarked strictly across TripTiming's 5 empirical pillars: Crowds, Weather, Vibes, Prices, and Safety.
Copenhagen emerges as the optimal May destination with an overall TripTiming Index of 67/100 vs 54/100 for Amsterdam (+13 point advantage). Copenhagen experiences substantially lower visitor footfall and shorter landmark queues (heavy visitor congestion vs peak seasonal crowding in Amsterdam). Sightseeing is further aided by comfortable outdoor weather (15°C feels-like). Travelers also benefit from lower accommodation costs (~$307/night vs ~$378/night in Amsterdam, saving ~$497 over a week). While Amsterdam retains an edge in City Vitality (80/100 vs 62/100), Copenhagen's commanding performance in Space & Crowds secures the overall May recommendation.