Spring is magical and pure joy in Europe. The weather is perfect, the scenery is picturesque, and there are no big crowds. Plus, you can enjoy shoulder-season prices.
If you're dreaming of a vacation in Europe in March, April, or May but don't know exactly which destinations are worth visiting, here's a roundup of regions and cities where you can experience spring at its best.
Provence, France
Provence is a region in southeastern France bordering the Mediterranean Sea and Italy. It's known for its diverse landscapes from the plains of the Camargue and the Southern Alps to lavender fields, olive groves, rolling vineyards, and pine forests.
To the south is the French Riviera where Nice and resort towns such as Cannes line the coast.
Lisse, Netherlands
Lisse is a town southwest of Amsterdam. It's famous for the Keukenhof garden, also called the "Garden of Europe."
Some 7 million spring bulbs are planted throughout the park every year, turning it into a rainbow of colors. Keukenhof covers 32 hectares and attracts around 1.5 million visitors annually.
Lisbon, Portugal
Beautiful Lisbon is a sought-after destination all year round, but it's especially lovely in the spring. Sandy beaches, sunny days, and pleasant temperatures are just a few reasons to visit Portugal's capital during this time.
Lisbon is a great base for day trips to places like Sintra and Cascais, both of which are very popular with tourists.
Tuscany, Italy Tuscany
is located in central Italy. Its capital, Florence, is home to many masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture, including Michelangelo's "David" statue.
But Tuscany is much more than a cultural and historical destination. It also offers plenty of adventure. You can hike in the mountains, explore the countryside on a Vespa, visit hot natural springs, take a hot air balloon ride, try paragliding, or go scuba diving.
Seville, Spain
This southern Spanish capital is known for its historic palaces and churches, Moorish buildings, flamenco dancing, and much more. The scent of jasmine and Spanish guitar music will surely captivate you.
Triana, which is located on the west bank of the Guadalquivir river, is one of the most charming areas in Seville. It's anchored by a vibrant market hall near the Bridge of Isabel II.
Madeira Island, Portugal
The archipelago of Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal and lies off the northwestern coast of Africa. It's known for its warm, subtropical climate as well as its namesake wine. The main island of Madeira is green, volcanic, and rugged.
It's characterized by pebble beaches, high cliffs, and natural pools formed by lava rocks.
You can explore lovely botanic gardens in the capital Funchal.
Vienna, Austria
Blooming cherry blossoms characterize Vienna in spring.
You can sit in quaint coffee houses, enjoy some of the best ice cream in the world, stroll through local markets, and explore the city's diverse architecture by bike.
To get the most out of your trip, be sure to visit the Stadtpark and Burggarten parks and take a ride in the ancient horse-drawn carriages in the city center.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia's capital and largest city has wonderful green spaces, including Tivoli Park. The Ljubljanica River divides the city's commercial hub from its old town.
If you're interested in art and history, you'll enjoy your time in Ljubljana because it has many museums such as the National Museum of Slovenia.
Near Ljubljana there are some fascinating places worth visiting in spring, including Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj, Postojna Cave, and the mountain village of Radovljica.
Crete, Greece
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and, thanks to its magical beauty, attracts many visitors during the peak summer season.
If you want to experience this beautiful part of the world without big crowds and sweltering heat, choose it as your next spring destination.
Crete is full of wonders, including stunning beaches, wild natural landscapes, thousands of years of culture and history, and exquisite cuisine.
Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is spectacular in the spring when it comes back to life. Locals flock to the weekly markets and garden terraces, and the hiking trails around Lake Zurich draw people outdoors.
If you want to go to Zurich in April, you should plan your trip so that you don't miss the Sechseläuten spring festival.
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin is arguably one of the best places in Europe to party in the spring. The city is full of energy and there are many cooking and gardening festivals.
If you visit Dublin in early June, you can attend the annual Bloom in the Park festival, which is one of the most anticipated gardening, food, and family events on the Irish calendar.
Oxford, England
If you want to spend part of your spring in the United Kingdom, we recommend a visit to Oxford. There are fewer tourists in this city than in London, which means more peace and quiet for you.
Explore The University of Oxford Botanic Garden, which celebrated its 400th anniversary in 2021. You can also stroll along Cowley Road, Oxford's multicultural landmark.
The Azores, Portugal
The Azores is a group of islands in the mid-Atlantic and an autonomous region of Portugal. The islands are full of dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, and green pastures.
As you stroll through the cobblestone streets, you'll come across unique, old buildings that you can't help but admire.
Terceira is a must-see island in the Azores, especially if you're looking for a vibrant nightlife and surprising landscapes.
Stavanger, Norway
Stavanger in the southwest of Norway is the place where you can have some of the most unique nature experiences in the country.
A day cruise on the Lysefjord and a hike to Kjerag or Preikestolen are activities you shouldn't miss.
Krk Island, Croatia
The island of Krk is the place you should visit in spring to spend an unforgettable vacation in Croatia. It's a paradise on earth with a great variety of impressive landscapes.
You can swim in the lagoons, walk through beautiful forests, meet friendly people, enjoy delicious food, climb mountains, and observe rare species of plants and birds.
