Greatest Locations to Go to in April in Europe: Cities, Seashores & Easter
April in Europe gives up quite a lot of causes to go to. The continent’s warmest spots are beginning to welcome again guests to their seashores because of rising temperatures. Easter ensures that locations corresponding to Seville and Braga are a few of the greatest locations to go to in April for seasonal celebrations. And – outdoors faculty holidays – you’ll be able to nonetheless discover low season offers.
The beginning of spring can also be a good time to get pleasure from metropolis breaks earlier than the crowds arrive. Thus, a few of the greatest European cities to go to in April (outdoors of the varsity holidays) are the likes of Paris, Rome, Barcelona and extra of Spain’s greatest cities.
However, quite than suggest the everyday busy capitals as an low season suggestion, I’ve tried to transcend probably the most obvious locations supply some various concepts.
In fact, a key consideration when planning the place to go in Europe in April is deciding whether or not you desire a seashore escape, cultural journey, metropolis break or journey trip. As such, I’ve damaged my strategies of the perfect locations to go to in April in Europe into these 4 classes.
Warmest locations in Europe in April for a vacation
If you wish to discover the warmest place in Europe in April, you’ll want to move south. Whereas temperatures are beginning to rise throughout the continent, there’s nonetheless an opportunity of gray days and showers in northern Europe – though spring wildflowers deliver the color. So, to (virtually) assure beach-friendly climate, you’ll wish to take into account a few of these greatest locations to go to in April in Europe.
Cyprus
Solar-seekers can’t go improper with Cyprus, one of many warmest locations in Europe in April for a seashore vacation Not solely are the island’s golden sands and turquoise waters often basking in a nice daytime 22°C (71°F), however there are additionally loads of issues to maintain you entertained away from the seashores.
From the traditional archaeological points of interest of Pahos – such because the 4th-century BC Tombs of the Kings – to the border-defined metropolis of Nicosia’s museums, Cyprus’ greatest points of interest are diversified and interesting. Although, tearing your self away from these attractive coastal spots corresponding to Nissi and Aphrodite’s Seashore would require a little bit of willpower!
Make it occur: Larnaca and Paphos are Cyprus’s two essential airports, served by legacy and funds airways in Europe. Flight-free choices embrace ferries from Greece and Turkey.
Dodecanese Islands, Greece
Who wouldn’t wish to spend spring break consuming halloumi, island hopping, and consuming crisp, chilled wine whereas watching epic sunsets? Nicely, that’s exactly what you’ll be able to count on whereas exploring Greece’s Dodecanese Islands.
Located within the Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese archipelago encompass the 12 largest and best-known islands, plus a couple of hundred smaller isles.
Every of those has its personal allure – and crystal-clear waters – so deciding the place to go in Europe in April will rely on if you would like a extra volcanic and distant island outpost corresponding to Nisyros, an reasonably priced sun-kissed resort escape in Kos, or a mixture of tradition, heritage, and seashore on the most important island, Rhodes.
Whereas these islands are a few of the warmest locations in Europe in April, with highs often round 20°C (68°F), the evenings can get slightly chilly. Nonetheless, for those who keep away from the Easter holidays, it may be an unbelievable time to go to to expertise these whitewashed Greek corners with out the crowds!
April highlights: The feast of Agios Georgios in Pastida is widely known throughout many islands on April twenty third. If Easter is later, then the date could also be pushed again barely.
Make it occur: First, you’ll must determine which island to move for and take into account which one delivers what you need when it comes to points of interest and value. You are able to do a Skyscanner search to see the choices for all of the Greek islands damaged down by value – for those who’re coming from the US, search routes through Athens.
Antalya, Türkiye
Whereas Antalya is the gateway to Türkiye’s Mediterranean south coast, it’s technically in Asia. Nonetheless, given a part of Turkey is in Europe and Antalya’s proximity, I’d nonetheless class it as top-of-the-line locations to go to in April in Europe for a seashore vacation.
Not solely do the turquoise waters supply loads of leisure alternatives, however there are additionally sufficient historical sights and cultural points of interest to discover for those who get stressed toes. The Previous Harbour is great for a stroll, and also you’ll spot reminders of Antalya’s earlier life as a Roman Port, significantly on the imposing Hadrian’s Gate.
Being one of many warmest locations in Europe in April, you’ll be able to count on daytime temperatures of round 21°C (70°F) and just about assured blue skies.
Lodging choices can be found for all, starting from luxurious resorts to extra laid-back budget-friendly stays. You’ll discover extra laid-back resort locations alongside the coast, corresponding to Belek and Facet.
Make it occur: Antalya airport is well-serviced. The area can also be fashionable for bundle offers like these from Love Holidays – together with flights – from round £150pp for a room solely or £210pp for an all-inclusive resort.
Greatest European cities to go to in April
If you happen to’re on the lookout for a metropolis break quite than a seashore getaway, these are my picks of the perfect European cities to go to in April. In fact, outdoors of the Easter holidays, all main capitals are nice for visiting earlier than the pre-summer rush, however these spots even have one thing further to supply in April.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in April in Europe. Not solely will you discover a compact and cute capital metropolis, however loads of stunning day journeys into nature can be found on the town’s doorstep.
Whereas Ljubljana isn’t a lot of a hidden gem in Europe nowadays, it nonetheless gained’t be as busy as close by Venice or Dubrovnik over the Easter faculty holidays.
Because of the pedestrianised centre, it’s a delight to discover. Whether or not you’re enjoyable at a wine bar alongside the canal banks – attempt the native Zelen grape, it’s scrumptious – climbing to the fortress excessive above, or just wandering between impartial shops housed behind vibrant facades, it’s a problem to not fall underneath Ljubljana’s spell.
With a considerable college inhabitants and loads of stylish espresso and wine bars within the centre, an evening out right here can also be nice enjoyable.
April highlights: Some April occasions you’ll be able to get pleasure from in Ljubljana embrace the final days of the ‘Slovenian Music Days’ – a classical live performance occasion – and Orto Fest, a month-long occasion primarily highlighting Slovenian bands and performers.
Make it occur: If you happen to’re struggling to seek out flights to Slovenia straight – Ljubljana airport is small – take into account different close by cities, corresponding to Trieste and Zagreb after which use a switch service. Flight-free from the UK will take round 30 hours on FlixBus.
Must you need greater than a metropolis break, you’ll be able to simply go to spots corresponding to Lake Bled and Vipava Valley your self on public transport or guide a one-week Slovenia tour to have a information present you all this stunning nation’s highlights.
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
If you wish to mix the perfect of an April seashore journey with grand structure and plenty of points of interest, take into account a metropolis break in Palma.
Whereas the mercury is slightly decrease within the Balearic Islands than within the Canary Islands – daytime temperatures often attain round 18°C (70°F) – Palma de Mallorca is about rather more than the seashores.
Of the cultural and architectural choices, probably the most spectacular is Palma Cathedral, which towers above the city. The spiritual masterpiece, well-endowed with Gothic grandeur, took almost 400 years to assemble. Different notable sights embrace the Royal Palace and the intriguingly-round Castell de Bellver.
Artwork can also be nicely represented in Mallorca, particularly the works of Balearic creatives. The most effective collections are on show at Es Baluard and Fundació Miró. Mix this with the compelling eating scene and first-class nightlife – a far cry from close by Magaluf’s revelry –, and also you’ve obtained every part you want for a metropolis break however
Palma can also be top-of-the-line European cities to go to in April as you possibly can make it a week-long keep and revel in straightforward day journeys to a few of Spain’s hidden gems, such because the Serra de Tramuntana, or the idyllic harbour village of Port de Sóller, reached by a rickety classic prepare.
April highlights: Alongside the Easter celebrations of Semana Santa, native occasions embrace the Palma Worldwide Boat present and regional foodie occasions in Andratx and Alcudia. Close by you’ll additionally discover Climbing day journeys out of the town tempting because of the wildflowers alongside the extra rural trails.
Make it occur: Mallorca airport is one among Spain’s most vital and busiest, a testomony to it being top-of-the-line islands to go to in Europe for a metropolis break. Due to this fact you’ll discover loads of flight choices from regional UK and EU airports and a brand new service direct from New York.
Flight-free is feasible by taking the in a single day ferry from Barcelona or Valencia. If you happen to’d choose to guide a bundle vacation, loads of choices can be found in these close by vacation resorts.
Copenhagen, Denmark
With temperatures thawing and the times getting longer, Copenhagen is likely one of the greatest European cities to go to in April. Not solely are rain showers a lot much less possible, however there are greater than 50 glorious museums in Copenhagen and close by to entertain if the rains do come.
On a fast weekend metropolis break, you’ll be capable to go to a few these glorious museums – the Louisiana Museum of Trendy Artwork is a standout – and discover architectural treasures such because the Kastellet, a well-preserved fortress, and the Royal Palaces.
As Copenhagen was named the World Capital of Structure in 2023 by UNESCO, you’ll even have loads of fashionable structure to understand as you cycle across the metropolis. Different highlights embrace the colorful canals of Nyhavn, and the Tivoli Gardens, an in depth amusement park which opened in 1843.
In fact, one other bonus of visiting earlier than the summer time season is that lodging costs are often decrease. On condition that the prices of travelling in Scandinavia can rapidly drain your pockets, saving some Danish Krone in your lodging is actually welcome.
April highlights: Flowers are a function, with the Tivoli Gardens opening up for the season at first of April, whereas Copenhagen’s cherry blossom pageant happens in the direction of the tip of the month.
Make it occur: Copenhagen airport is nicely linked – together with continuous providers to the US. The journey can take near in the future by prepare from the UK.
The place to go in Europe in April for adventures
If you happen to’re crying out to benefit from the return of longer and hotter days however on a climbing, biking or crusing journey quite than a seashore, these are a few of the greatest locations to go to in Europe in April.
Jurassic Coast, England, UK
Let me introduce you to the area the place I grew up, Dorset’s Jurassic Coast. This UNESCO-listed stretch of coast continues into East Devon and is fingers down one among England’s greatest locations.
The clue of what makes this coastal marvel so fascinating is within the title. Filled with geological options, numerous fossils – some relationship again greater than 180 million years – have been discovered right here. Even now, once you stroll alongside the seashore, you would possibly encounter one your self.
The Jurassic Coast can also be a terrific place for out of doors adventures within the UK. Whereas April isn’t precisely seashore temperature in England, the wildflowers mixed with extra dependable climate make the coastal trails very inviting throughout this era.
I wouldn’t counsel coming right here in the course of the UK’s Easter faculty holidays – it is going to be packed – but it surely is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in April in Europe outdoors of these weeks, as from Might onwards, England’s coastal locations begin to get a lot busier.
If you happen to’ve obtained extra time, proceed additional south to discover a few of the greatest locations to go to in Cornwall earlier than the summer time crowds descend.
Make it occur: One of the simplest ways to discover the Jurassic Coast is to rent a automobile. Nonetheless, you’ll be able to hop between the principle sights utilizing public transport.
Weymouth would make a good base for those who don’t have a automobile, and it will also be reached by a direct prepare service from London.
São Miguel Island, Azores, Portugal
Portugal is a well-liked vacation spot in April. Metropolis-seekers make a beeline for Lisbon and Porto, whereas seashore lovers get pleasure from the perfect issues to do within the Algarve. But, for me, the nine-strong Azores archipelago – situated within the Atlantic between Canada and the continent – are a few of Europe’s greatest locations to go to in April.
Whereas every of those islands has a singular high quality, São Miguel – the ‘capital’ and largest of the group – bundles every part collectively to offer first-time guests an adventurous introduction.
Highlights of this volcanic-defined journey paradise embrace climbing to the Boca do Inferno viewpoint for panoramas over a glistening two-colour volcanic lake, browsing close to black sand seashores, and experiencing the geothermal exercise of Furnas.
With loads of waterfalls, canyoning adventures, and wildlife recognizing alternatives within the deep blue, these islands are the proper method to say good day to spring and embrace the nice outside post-winter.
April highlights: Alongside some Easter occasions, April is the beginning of the first whale watching season, making sightings rather more frequent. The Tremor music pageant often takes place on the primary days of April or the final days of March.
Make it occur: To reach in São Miguel, you’ll must fly as there isn’t a long-distance ferry, simply inter-island providers. Direct flights depart main EU/UK cities and likewise from Boston and New York. Bundle holidays aren’t as fashionable right here as in additional beachy European locations, though some choices exist.
You’ll wish to hire a automobile to achieve the perfect spots on the island simply. Alternatively, group excursions are a very good choice – particularly if you wish to do some journey actions. I just like the native operator Futurismo, as in addition they embrace whale and dolphin recognizing and tremendously respect the surroundings. They provide a fair-priced one-week journey tour which covers all of the highlights.
Albania
It may not be probably the most apparent decisions, however for those who ask me, Albania is likely one of the greatest locations to go to in April in Europe, particularly if you wish to get pleasure from some outdoors adventures.
Whereas the coast is beginning to heat up – daytime temperatures would possibly attain 20°C (68°F) – and summer time crowds are but to descend, the nation’s stunning seashores aren’t the principle purpose to go to in April.
As a substitute, I’d counsel specializing in inland adventures – or certainly coastal, corresponding to paragliding excessive above the shoreline – to get your early-spring adrenaline kicks. Within the towering Accursed Mountains (Albanian Alps), the winter snow ought to have largely melted by late March, opening up some epic climbing trails. The snow soften additionally aids white water rafting and kayaking on the Vjosa River.
Lake Komani is one other breathtaking spot for a ship experience or rural keep, and the Nationwide Parks of Theth and Valbona present loads of out of doors actions. Albania’s UNESCO websites – together with the picturesque cities of Gjirokastra and Berat – are prepared and ready for a aspect of tradition.
Not solely is Albania top-of-the-line locations to go to in April in Europe, however you’ll be able to proceed the journey to close by Balkan nations with a street journey to Montenegro or Bosnia & Herzegovina.
April highlights: Whereas Albania has no official faith, Eid al-Fitr and Easter (Catholic and Orthodox) are celebrated in Albania. Different occasions embrace the South Outside Competition – a major occasion honouring all of the actions potential within the nice outside – nevertheless, in 2023, this has been rescheduled for Might.
Make it occur: Tirana is the principle airport getaway to Albania. Nonetheless, you can even verify the funds flight choices to Tuzla or take into account flying to Corfu (Greece) and taking the quick ferry to southern Albania.
If you happen to’d choose to discover Albania with a gaggle – and by bike – then this 10-day biking tour in Albania will attraction, each for the itinerary inclusions and having the ability to journey with some new pals.
The place to go in Europe in April for Easter
Whereas locations close to Rome, such because the Vatican Metropolis, might sound the obvious reply to the place to go in Europe in April for Easter, there are a lot extra locations with main seasonal celebrations throughout the continent. Simply keep in mind that sometimes Easter falls in March, so it’s additionally value checking which dates sure celebrations, occasions and festivals will happen.
Braga, Portugal
It’s truthful to say that a lot of Portugal is neglected by worldwide guests, with most individuals selecting a weekend in Porto or Lisbon for his or her Portuguese metropolis break. Nonetheless, having lived on this magnificent nation for 5 years, I can let you know that’s an enormous mistake.
Considered one of Portugal’s greatest locations to go in Europe in April is the northern metropolis of Braga. Not solely is that this college residence to one among Portugal’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Websites, the staircase-heavy Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, but it surely additionally hosts Portugal’s most vital Easter celebrations.
Throughout Semana Santa (Holy Week), Braga is awash with occasions and festivities, together with the legendary Lent procession, pilgrimages and live shows in spiritual areas. Chanting echoes via the streets, decorations add to the mediaeval metropolis’s allure, and the night candle and torch-lit procession – led by the normal donkey, no much less – are significantly spectacular.
Whereas Braga is likely one of the extra underrated cities in Europe, the historic core has a allure to it. There are sufficient museums and points of interest to maintain you busy for a weekend at the least – the palatial Biscainhos Museum is an effective place to begin – and it’s a terrific introduction to the tradition of North Portugal past Porto and the Douro
Extra April highlights: Alongside Semana Santa celebrations, April twenty fifth is Portugal’s Freedom Day, when parades and celebrations happen in honour of the navy coup that restored democracy to the nation.
Make it occur: Porto is the closest airport to Braga, which is served by quick and long-haul flights, whereas Lisbon can also be a good choose because the prepare connection takes only a few hours.
You might additionally sail into Northern Spain with Brittany Ferries if you wish to journey flight-free from the UK. Nonetheless, you’d possible wish to sail along with your automobile and make it right into a two-country street journey, stopping on the likes of San Sebastian and Oviedo en route.
Seville, Spain
In terms of celebrating Easter in Europe, a weekend in Seville actually strives for the highest spot. This alone makes the capital of southern Spain’s Andalucia area top-of-the-line locations to go to in April in Europe.
The Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations in Seville run for your complete Easter week, and the streets are taken over by processions elevating statues of Virgins in the direction of the heavens. Numerous clocked figures will solemnly move by the crowd-lined streets. I discover the night processions maybe probably the most fascinating, even whether it is in a haunting approach.
With all of the completely different Brotherhoods internet hosting their very own procession and an Andalusian spin because of the saetas – a kind of flamenco-style spiritual music hailing from the area – nowhere else in Spain can examine to Easter. Nonetheless, Valladolid additional north has a equally revered occasion, if barely extra solemn.
For a extra festive ambiance, Seville additionally hosts its annual Feira in April, one of many nation’s most well-known. Whereas these happen in most cities and cities at completely different instances all year long, Seville’s has been celebrated since 1846 and is thought to be one among – if not the – greatest within the nation.
A mini ‘metropolis’ is constructed particularly for the occasion, and fireworks, stalls, and traditions corresponding to flamenco and equestrianism all function. It’s the most popular ticket on the town, and the casetas (tiny ‘homes’) are non-public to specific households or teams. Nonetheless, a few of these zones operated by public entities permit entry to guests.
Past the April celebrations, Seville nonetheless serves up all of its famed points of interest. Take pleasure in a flamenco present, go to the Alcázar of Seville – a patio-heavy fortress-turned-palace – and climb to the highest of the towering cathedral for far-reaching cityscapes.
Make it occur: Seville’s airport doesn’t have the widest alternative of flights, so for those who’re struggling to seek out connections, you possibly can additionally verify Faro (Portugal) after which arrive by bus or Madrid (particularly for inter-continental connections) and take the high-speed rail to the town.
Semana Santa is a HUGE occasion in Spain’s cultural calendar, so that you’ll wish to guide your resort and pre-book tickets to the town’s main points of interest nicely prematurely to make sure you don’t miss out on something.
Jerusalem and Bethlehem, Palestine
Okay, this isn’t fairly top-of-the-line locations to go to in April in Europe, as Jerusalem and the West Financial institution are within the Asian continent. Nonetheless, given the geographical proximity, and the variety of spiritual celebrations in April, it’s a worthwhile consideration when asking the place to journey in April.
Placing political, private ideas, and human rights discourse apart for a second, I imagine visiting the Occupied Palestinian Territory of the West Financial institution – the Gaza Strip is almost inconceivable to go to as a traveller – is an important a part of visiting this a part of the world. I learnt so much throughout my time right here, and can eternally really feel indebted to my information for all of his endurance, time and ideas as he confirmed me each day life in Palestine.
Relating to Easter, after all, each Jerusalem and Bethlehem are essential Christian websites. Once I visited throughout Holy Week – whilst an atheist – I used to be bowled over by the ability of the processions and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre’s providers.
However, what makes Jerusalem actually particular right now of yr is that three religions, and three completely different celebrations, happen alongside one another.
Eid al-Fitr – one of many essential occasions on the Islamic calendar – is widely known on the finish of Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting. Over the three-day occasion – which commences with early morning prayers at Al-Aqsa and different mosques – new garments, feasts and sweets are shared, with scrumptious meals served up at stalls throughout the Previous Metropolis.
The Jewish neighborhood celebrates Pesach (or Passover). Varied occasions happen over seven days that are bookended by two main holy holidays; the intermediate days often called Chol HaMoed. Israelis and Jews from internationally got here collectively in Jerusalem throughout this era, with probably the most attended occasions often being the providers and blessings on the Western Wall.
Make it occur: Tel Aviv airport is nicely served by worldwide and inter-continental flights, and it’ll take round one hour to achieve Jerusalem. Attending to Bethlehem is a bit more sophisticated, as you’ll must cross a border checkpoint. Nonetheless, it may be completed by public transport.
If you happen to’d choose to take a tour – and you actually ought to only for the teachings alone – I extremely advocate the corporate I used, Inexperienced Olive Excursions. A joint-owned Palestinian and Israeli operator, they don’t hesitate to debate the political and human rights scenario.
Wish to uncover extra of the perfect locations to go to in Europe? Take a look at my favorite Europe hidden gems, a few of the most spectacular underrated cities in Europe and extra concepts of the perfect European spring locations.
Uncover extra of the perfect locations to go to in Europe by season and month:
A ultimate abstract:
April is a superb time to go to Europe. The climate is warming, outdoors actions are on the return, and costs are nonetheless pretty cheap. Nonetheless, attempt to keep away from the Easter faculty holidays (dates differ) if you wish to snag the perfect bargains.
If you happen to’re searching for the warmest place in Europe in April, you need to head south. A few of Europe’s greatest locations to go to in April are Cyprus, Malta, the Canary Islands and southern Spain and Portugal.
The most effective nation to go to in April depends upon what you’re searching for. If you’d like seashores, head to Cyprus, Malta or Spain’s islands. The most effective European cities to go to in April embrace Palma de Mallorca for a city-cum-island break, Seville and Braga for Easter celebrations, and Copenhagen for a pre-peak season museum metropolis break.