Is there anything more romantic, peaceful, and exuberant than Europe in the spring? We don’t think so either! From strolling along the Seine in Paris to participating in all-day celebrations in Rome to lounging on beautiful Greek beaches, a visit to the Old Continent during this season of growth and rebirth is sure to be everything you’ve ever dreamed of and more.
While you’ll have an amazing time no matter where in Europe you visit during the spring, we’ve put together a list of some of the top European cities to visit in the spring.
- Paris, France
- Vienna, Austria
- Oxford, England
- Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Crete, Greece
- Rome, Italy
- The Azores, Portugal
- Seville, Spain
Paris, France
There’s a reason everyone talks about Paris in the springtime! Nearly everywhere you look, you’ll find gorgeous pink blooms, fresh weather, and plenty of opportunities for picture-perfect moments. If you visit in the month of May, try to time your visit with Nuit des Musee or the Night of Museums, which allows visitors to explore some of the world’s most famous museums late at night, completely free. Paris is also home to several amazing parks and gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll or indulgent picnic, and plenty of outdoor cafe spaces that are only more enjoyable on a brisk spring day.
Vienna, Austria
If old-world charm is what you seek, Vienna in the spring more than delivers. Here, you’ll find blossoming cherry blossoms, countless quaint coffee houses with outdoor seating beginning as early as March, some of the world’s best ice cream, and plenty of green space to stretch out and enjoy the great outdoors. Stroll through a local outdoor market, rent a bike, and explore the city’s gorgeous architecture, or time your visit with Electric Spring in April, a free festival that combines food, artwork, and music.
Oxford, England
If you’re looking to spend some of your Spring in the UK, skip the tourist crowds in London and pay Oxford a visit. Stop for a photo beside the famous, ancient cherry blossom tree outside of the University Church on the high street, wander the University’s botanical gardens or one of the city’s countless parks, or stroll along the colorful Cowley Road and find a spot to stop and sip a drink or two under the springtime sun. For a truly unique experience, time your visit with the first of May: on this day, bars and clubs stay open until 5 am, and at 6 am, thousands of people gather in the city center to hear the church bells ring and choirs singing hymns from the top of the city’s Great Tower.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam truly shines in the springtime! For the best views of the iconic tulip bloom, make sure you arrive in early spring to see them in their full glory. There’s a local event or quirky site to visit every single day in the city, so make sure to check out what’s on offer before you leave, or even plan your visit around one of the many exciting festivals. The massive celebration of King’s Day in late April, for instance! It’s the king’s birthday, and to commemorate it, Amsterdam shuts off the streets, and its inhabitants set up flea market stalls along the street, turning the city into a street festival decked in orange, their national color. For a calmer experience, see the Dutch Masters in one of the city’s many museums before relaxing in the famous Vondelpark.
Crete, Greece
Think lounging on sandy beaches is restricted to summer – and the hordes of tourists that come with it? Think again! A visit to the southernmost Greek island of Crete in the springtime has it all: here, you’ll experience the vibrant nightlife, natural beauty, and fresh-grown products like olives, honey, and wine. Explore the rocky cliffs that jut out into the sea, walk along endless sandy beaches, and enjoy fresh-caught seafood from one of the many warm, welcoming restaurants everywhere on the island.
Rome, Italy
If experiencing the culture, beauty, and, of course, the food of Italy has long been on your bucket list, a visit to Rome in the spring may be perfect for you! Not only will the weather be mild, but spring is also considered “shoulder season” in Rome, so you’ll have fewer crowds to contend with. Hanging wisteria and azaleas bloom in full force in the spring, making your trip as beautiful as it is fragrant (and photo-worthy). If you visit in April, you may have a chance to see Rome’s “birthday party,” which has been celebrated since the city was founded in 753 BC! You can expect open museums, street parades showcasing the city’s long history, and even a beauty contest to find the goddess of Rome of the year!
The Azores, Portugal
The Azores, a group of islands 850 miles off the southwest coast of Portugal, is beautiful year-round, but a springtime visit is especially magical. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration by way of hiking through lush green nature or wandering the cobbled streets of more built-up areas, as well as appreciating the unique culture and architecture of the islands. Since the islands were once a major trading hub, they’ve been influenced by several cultures and boast a fascinating history.
Seville, Spain
If you’re dying for some summer heat early, a visit to Seville in spring is a perfect destination for you. As the hottest city in continental Europe, you’ll enjoy plenty of sunshine and opportunities for some world-class Spanish food, from tapas to pinchos! Take a stroll by the Guadalquivir river, explore gorgeous parks such as Maria Luisa Park, or relax in a boat floating down the Plaza de Espana. Time your visit with Feria de Abril – a legendary week-long fiesta featuring music, dancing, and plenty of drinking. Just make sure you book well in advance!
Spring is a wonderful time to travel anywhere in the world – the blooming plants, the fresh air, the climbing temperatures – but Europe becomes especially beautiful. It seems as if there’s a beautiful sight or outdoor adventure available around every corner, and the sunshine makes everyone around you just a little bit happier. If you’re planning a trip to Europe in the spring, your trip is sure to be thrilling!
Where’s your favorite place to visit in Europe?
