It’s such a great feeling being able to take a little vacation during Easter or in Spring in general in order to relax a few days and discover something of the world. It does not always have to be long-haul destinations such as the Maldives, Thailand or Cuba, which are considered the most popular travel destinations around Easter time. Also around Europe, you can spend a great weekend getaway, spring vacations, and some sunny days.
In the following, we would like to introduce you to the best places to visit in Europe in spring to make your Easter or Spring getaway this year an unforgettable experience. In addition, we choose places that are (during that time of the year) not too touristy.
What to find out in this post
Best Places to visit in Europe in Spring
Dublin, Ireland
Temperature *: 3 – 12 ° C
Dublin is a beautiful city that immediately captivated me with its exuberant Irish atmosphere. Dublin is not only the capital of Ireland, famous for its leprechauns and clover leaves, but also surrounded by wonderful unique nature. In order to see this unique city, we recommend you stay at least 2 days in Dublin.
A visit in April is especially worthwhile in Dublin, as it is considered one of the driest months of the year.
What you should definitely not miss when visiting Dublin is a visit to one of the traditional Irish pubs, like the famous Temple Bar. If you’re interested in beer and breweries, you’ll also have the chance to see the brewery of the globally popular Guinness beer here in Dublin.
A Dublin Itinerary should not miss a visit to the impressive Dublin Castle.
Extra tip: Be sure to try a yummy Irish Apple Cider.
Helsinki, Finland
Temperature *: -6 – 7 ° C
For those who do not mind the cooler temperatures, or for those who have not had enough of winter, Helsinki is an ideal destination for a European holiday in Spring.
In addition to a visit to the Cathedral of Helsinki, which is considered the landmark of the city, of course, also a tour to the harbor should be part of your Helsinki Bucket list. There is also a market hall where you can find delicious Finnish snacks. (Our favorite was the salmon sandwich).
Those who enjoy being outdoors should also plan a trip to the island of Suomenlinna, where you can find many walks. Afterwards, you can enjoy a hot drink in one of the waterfront restaurants.
Extra tip: If you have more time, you can, of course, combine the trip to Helsinki with a trip to the north of the country.
Bordeaux, France
Temperature *: 4 – 17 ° C
Bordeaux is a city that really surprised me positively and is definitely one of the top attractions in the South of France. After the French capital Paris could not really live up to my expectations, Bordeaux enchanted me even more.
With its small shops and bakeries, narrow streets and old buildings, the city in the south of the country reflects the typical French vibe known from the typical French movies.
If you visit Bordeaux during your spring holiday, you may already experience some warm sunny days. Nevertheless, at this time, there is no high season, so that Bordeaux feels not particularly touristy.
The most beautiful and unforgettable sight for us is Bordeaux’s Place de la Bourse. This place is located directly at the river Garonne, which flows through the city. What makes this place special is the so-called Miroir d’eau (water mirror). This is the largest reflection pool in the world.
Another thing Bordeaux is famous for, of course, is its wine. So do not leave the city without tasting a sip of the famous Bordeaux wine.
Ceský Krumlov, Czech Republic
Temperature *: 2- 14 ° C
While its famous sister, Prague, expects a large number of tourists every year around Easter, the beautiful town of Ceský Krumlov is often overlooked by tourists. Too bad, because here you can taste delicious Czech treats and experience wonderful architecture as well.
Since 1963, this city, which by the way is located at the Vltava River in South Bohemia, is considered a city conservation area and is now even recognized by UNESCO as a cultural monument and the city center is even a World Heritage Site since 1992.
If you visit the small town, you should not miss the most famous building in the city: Cesky Krumlov Castle. With an area of about 10 hectares, the castle is considered the second largest historical building in the Czech Republic, just after the Prague Castle. But also the castle theater in Baroque style, as well as the castle park are definitely worth a visit. Here at the castle, you will also find another important sight of the city: The Cloak Bridge. This is a multi-level bridge that connects two courtyards and leads over the moat.
Extra tip: Do not leave Ceský Krumlov without trying one of the delicious Trdelnik.
Spring Vacation in Nature
Harz, Germany
Temperature *: Depending on the altitude, about 1 -14 ° C
The Harz is not only the most beautiful low mountain range in Germany but also the highest mountains in northern Germany. You can find the Harz between Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia.
In addition to numerous UNESCO World Cultural Heritages, you will find here especially one thing: beautiful nature. For all hiking and outdoor enthusiasts, the Harz is the perfect destination for spring.
All animal lovers can also enjoy a visit to the Harz National Park, which stretches over a distance of 247 km ², in order to watch deer, lynx and wild cats.
At this time of the year, it is usually not so cold (the emphasis is on “usually”, because there may well be snow – in this case, the Harz is also great for skiing), but also not too warm. Accordingly, you will find the perfect temperatures for hiking.
In the surrounding cities like Goslar or Wernigerode, you can also experience breathtaking medieval architecture and feel as if you’ve just traveled back in time.
Luxembourg
Temperature *: 4 – 15 ° C
In Luxembourg, you can not only discover a truly beautiful city, but also a great amount of wonderful nature. We were enchanted by the traditional castles that can be found throughout the country. Especially considering the size of the small country, this is all the more impressive.
Even if it is not really warm at this time of the year, there are way fewer tourists for this reason than during the summer months. Especially those who are looking for relaxed nature walks will be happy to meet as few other visitors as possible.
While in Luxembourg City you should not miss the Bock Casemates, the city’s ancient defenses, as well as a view over the traditional and beautiful district of Grund, our absolute favorite was a day trip to Vianden. Here you will find the Vianden Castle, which is located on the top of a mountain and therefore can be seen from afar. Inside you can gain a little insight into the medieval history of Luxembourg with the help of a few exhibits.
Would you like to know more about Luxembourg? In our Luxembourg Guide, you will find the most beautiful sights and excursions.
Warm European cities to visit in Spring
Girona, Catalonia, Spain
Temperature *: 12 – 20 ° C
Girona is the lesser-known brother, who is not far from his famous sister Barcelona. Although this beautiful city is always in the shadow of Catalonia’s capital, it is still a great destination, especially for those who enjoy exploring less touristy cities.
In April, there is a very special day in Catalonia: Sant Jordi. This is Catalan Valentine’s Day as it is the day of the book. According to tradition, the man gives his love a red rose while the women give their partner a book. All over the streets, books and roses are sold that day. Not to forget the amazing easter festival in Spain.
If you look at Girona, do not miss the beautiful cathedral of the city as well as the Sant Feliu Church. Just wander a bit through the narrow old streets of the city and let the typical Catalan atmosphere mesmerize you.
Porto, Portugal
Temperature *: 7 – 18 ° C
Porto totally surprised me and became one of my favorite cities in Europe. Although Lisbon often puts Porto in the shade, Porto is definitely my favorite.
Sunny spring temperatures prevail here in March and April, but it is not too hot, making a visit during this season perfect.
The most beautiful thing about Porto is simply to walk around without a destination and discover the city on your own. If you want to take a break, you should definitely try one of the port wines made here (or two) while watching the locals, e. g. in Riberia.
Another must-see sightseeing attraction is the São Francisco Church, Porto Cathedral and the impressive 19th-century Palàcio da Bolsa Stock Exchange.
Our highlight was a walk on the beach, even though the weather usually is not warm enough for swimming yet.
Granada, Andalusia, Spain
Temperature *: 9 – 21 ° C
If you have ever wanted to experience the Semana Santa (holy week), you should choose your destination of the Easter holidays in Andalusia in the south of Spain. Why not combine the whole thing with a visit to the Alhambra?
The Alhambra is a truly impressive complex of buildings in Granada that is definitely worth a visit and is part of many Spain Bucket lists. With its Arabic influences. you can easily forget that you are in Spain. But even in the rest of the city, the Arab influences can hardly be denied. When you walk through the narrow streets of the city, you might think you have landed in Morocco instead.
At this time of year, there are already wonderful early summer temperatures that are perfect to finally get out of the winter blues.
You can not leave Granada without tasting the delicious Andalusian tapas.
Extra tip: In Andalusia, it is common to get a free tapa with every drink.
*Author’s note:
Temperature = mid-temperature minimum March – mid-temperature maximum April
Did you find a place that you would like to visit? Or maybe you can recommend us an even better destination? Let us know in the comments below!
More inspiration
How about a small town? Read about the favorite small towns of travel bloggers here.
wow what an interesting place!
Thank you for your comment 🙂
Amazing article and really loved the places discussed and information provided. The list you presented is really impressing, I came across the article when I was doing research on the places to visit in Eu. In fact, I am working with a hospitality company which provides affordable ticket booking and hotel stays. This article of yours helped me a lot in my research.
Thanks a lot.
Looking forward to more articles.
Hi Ashley,
Thank you so much for your comment! I am happy you find it useful 🙂