17 Best Places To Visit In Europe In April
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Looking for warm weather and inspiration for the best places to visit in Europe in April? This is the month I usually start my travel season because you get the advantage of both off-season prices and crowds, which means the cruise ships and tourists have not come out to play yet, and the prices for accommodations are lower.
Europe starts to warm up in April, and people come out of hibernation post-Easter holidays. In general, the weather in April in the south of Europe is ideal for anyone looking for warm beaches, averaging 60-75°F. Northern Europe is always about 10° chillier, but you get some gorgeous spring blooms in places like Amsterdam (tulips 🌷), Paris (cherry blossoms 🌸), and Scotland (wildflowers).
Some of my favorite more unique spots in April have been:
✅ Amsterdam, Netherlands – This is peak tulip season, and I will never forget visiting Keukenhof Gardens in all its glory! April in Amsterdam is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
✅ Sevilla, Spain – Sevilla goes wild with street parties for Feria de Abril. Everyone is dressed up in traditional flamenco, people are showing off their Andalucian horses, pop-up food and sangria stalls open up, and it’s an all-out fairground in Sevilla.
✅ The Algarve, Portugal – South Portugal is sunny and hot in April, and the coastal hiking and beaches are fantastic. If you see the Algarve in the peak of summer (90s & packed), you’ll be glad you visited in April.
✅ The Islands of Europe – My top favorites were Sicily and Sardinia in Italy, Mallorca in Spain, and Naxos and Paros in Greece for an April beach and hiking vacation.
The places my fellow travelers and I recommend you visit in Europe in the spring are top-notch, tried and tested, and mostly tourist-free in the off-season of April. I’ve included the average temperature for each spot for the month so you’ll know what to expect, how to pack, and a few favorite gems and things to do. Let’s dive in!
Best Places to Visit in Europe In April For Warm Weather
If you’re looking for warm weather in Europe in April, here are the best places to visit.
The Island of Malta
☀️ Malta Weather In April: 54° – 68°F
Recommended by Robyn Dirk at Two Empty Passports
The tiny archipelago of Malta is one of the best places to visit in Europe in April. Located just south of Sicily in the middle of the Mediterranean, Malta gets over 300 days of sunshine, which means – pack your bathing suit for a holiday full of warm weather and cloudless skies!
Only In April: You should check out the Malta International Fireworks Festival in April. This event lights up the skies over the Grand Harbor for seven straight nights!
Wandering the capital city of Valletta is my favorite. I loved the pedestrian-only historic center with its unique architecture of limestone buildings, colorful shutters, and traditional Maltese balconies. Don’t forget to swing by the centerpiece of the capital, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral. It’s a beautiful Baroque church with a stunning interior and paintings by Caravaggio – who is a big deal, for those who didn’t pay attention in art history class.
Another thing I loved doing is a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon on the island of Comino – highly recommend spending the afternoon swimming and snorkeling in the gorgeous waters. Then make your way to Rampila Restaurant for wine and a delicious Maltese dinner in a 16th-century bastion.
The best way to get to Malta is to fly. There are direct flights to Malta from several major European cities. Or, if you’re in Sicily, you can take a 1 hour 45 min speed ferry over.
Algarve, Portugal
☀️ Portugal Weather In April: 59° – 70°F
Recommended by Erin from Pina Travels
Spring is the perfect season for visiting the Algarve, which is the southern region of Portugal. Located about 3 hours drive south of Lisbon, the Algarve is known for being the sunniest region of Europe. During the summer, it gets quite hot, which is why spring is the perfect time to go. You’ll have sunny, warm weather, without overheating.
Another major benefit of visiting the Algarve in spring is that it’s the shoulder season for tourism, which means there are way fewer crowds than in the peak season (summer). There are no lines to visit famous historical attractions like Silves Castle, and you’ll have beautiful Algarve towns like Olhão and Lagos, all to yourself.
Olhão is known for its bustling fish markets, unique “cubist” architecture influenced by North African designs, and its proximity to the Ria Formosa lagoons, which is gorgeous and a haven for birdwatchers.
Spend a day visiting the Algarve’s famous beaches, like Praia de Dona Ana, Praia do Camilo, Praia da Marinha, and Praia da Rocha. While the ocean is still chilly in spring, the weather is warm enough for lounging on the beach, and if you’re brave, you can go for a cold dip! Be sure to get out onto the ocean as well. You can take a sunset boat tour that brings you along the coast, with a stop in the famous Benagil Cave.
Andalucia, Spain
☀️ Spain Weather In April: 60° – 72°F
Recommended by Emilie at Love Life Abroad
Visiting Andalucía, Spain in April is brilliant because you’ll actually enjoy the perfect weather for exploring cities like Granada, Malaga, and Seville. It won’t be as hot as in the summertime but warm enough to enjoy the outdoors.
In Granada, make sure you visit the Alhambra. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful architecture and gardens built for the former king and queen of Spain. I recommend getting a guide and booking your ticket in advance.
From Granada, head to Nerja, where you can explore the Nerja Caves. Then off to Malaga, where you can visit La Alcazaba and Gibralfaro Castle. For adventure lovers, El Caminito del Rey is an amazing walkway along a narrow gorge. You can also check out Lagar Las Quirosas in Malaga for a short and easy hiking experience. The trails are beautiful in spring.
The drive from Malaga to Tarifa shows off some incredible ocean views. Tarifa is great for some beach time, even in April. You can even take a day trip to Tanger, Morocco from there, which I highly recommend.
Finally, in Seville, enjoy the Plaza De España and María Luisa Park. A hop-on-hop-off bus tour is the perfect way to see the city’s highlights.
Malaga, Spain
☀️ Spain Weather In April: 60° – 72°F
Recommended by Taylor at Taytrum Travels
Malaga, nestled on the Mediterranean Sea, makes a great base for exploring the Costa del Sol in Spain and has many great things to see in the city itself. I recommend Malaga in April when temperatures warm up and city exploring is much more enjoyable. One culturally unique holiday that’s fun to attend is Semana Santa (Holy Week) – usually falling on the first week of April. As one of the biggest events of the year, there are many parades in the streets and religious ceremonies to observe.
Malaga has a bustling and lovely Historic City Center, as well as sweeping vistas like Mirador de Gibralfaro. You should also make time to see the Picasso Museum, the Alcazaba, and the Malaga Cathedral.
Pro Tip: You can find amazing rooftop bars at the AC Hotel and Premium Malaga Hotel.
Malaga has a busy airport, the Costa del Sol Airport (AGP), that is well-connected to many major European cities and other international places. And if flying is not an option, you can also take a bus or train from Portugal or other parts of Spain.
Kofunisia, Greece
☀️ Greece Weather In April: 60° – 67°F (but feels warmer)
Recommended by Catherine at Nomadicated
Who wouldn’t want to go island-hopping on a European spring getaway? In the Cycladic islands of southern Greece, one island you shouldn’t miss is the Koufonisia Islands. Frequently called the “Mykonos of the Little Cyclades,” this laid-back island is home to some of the finest sandy beaches in the Aegean Sea.
PRO TIP: You’re in luck if you happen to be here for Greek Orthodox Easter, Greece’s most significant religious holiday. On Koufinisia, it starts with a parade illuminated with torches, followed by a sky of fireworks.
Hop on a 5 to 9-hour ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens to reach the Koufonisia Islands. Trade the scorching summer heat, the sky-high accommodation prices, and the crowds for milder temperatures and more privacy. Free camping on Kato Koufonisia will also be much more comfortable.
The sandy beaches like Ammos, Fanos, Italiada, and Finikas are absolutely gorgeous! The turquoise seawater might still be chilly, but rent a bike to explore the island and take a refreshing dip after working up a sweat. Afterward, wander the quaint streets of Ano Koufonisia and eat a fantastic meal at the Mikres Cyclades restaurant while sipping on some Greek wine.
Mykonos, Greece
☀️ Greece Weather In April: 60° – 67°F (but feels warmer)
Recommended by Tamara at My Elated Odyssey
If you’re looking for one of the best places to visit in Europe in April, head to Mykonos! Known for its electric party scene and beaches, this is the place to be in Greece. One of the best parts about an April visit is seeing the island gradually bloom to life. Around the towns, flowers will decorate the whitewashed houses, providing a picture-perfect scene.
The island begins to open the tourist season in April. While most Mykonos won’t fully operate, Mykonos Town will have the most activity. April is during the spring season for Mykonos. While not as hot as summer, it is still comfortable enough to enjoy outside activities, especially near the end of the month.
Mykonos is located in Greece’s Cycladic island region. There are only two ways to get there: plane or ferry. Athens is the most popular airport departing to Mykonos, and there are tons of flights and ferries daily.
Best Places to Visit in Europe In April For A Unique Experience
There are a few places in Europe where shit goes down in April! Here are the best places in Europe to visit for a unique experience.
Amsterdam, Netherlands [Tulip Season]
☀️ Amsterdam Weather In April: 40° F – 56° F
Recommended by Penny at Globe Trove
Not everyone knows this but if you are headed to Europe in April, then Amsterdam is one of the best spots to head to. Sure the city is bustling throughout the year, but this is when the tulip season is on high! The flower markets in the city are full of multi-colored tulips and bulbs that have put the Netherlands on the map for a lot of travelers to Europe during this time of year.
Did You Know: Tulips are so popular and iconic in the Netherlands, that these flowers are even exported outside the country.
One particular spot that makes Amsterdam interesting is Keukenhof Gardens. This is a tulip garden that is open only a few months of the year and April is the time to visit. Millions of tulip buds are planted every year and you can see a variety of different types of tulips in bloom.
Now you can get there on your own, or you can book one of the many tulip tours from Amsterdam. Both options help you explore the place at your own pace. So you could choose to spend a day at Keukenhof or just head there for a quick four-hour trip.
The city also has a lot of other attractions that you can head out to. Canal tours are super popular, the famous museums (my favorite is the Rijksmuseum), lots and lots of food and baked goods shops. These places start to get more lively at this time of the year as people come out of hibernation to experience spring.
Sevilla, Spain [Post-Easter Festivals]
☀️ Sevilla Weather In April: 51° F – 72° F
Recommended by Becky at The Sevilla Guide
The city of Seville in southern Spain is an amazing vacation destination in April. The vibrant city is known for its flamenco dancing, Gothic architecture, and delicious tapas. April is particularly special in Seville due to two major festivals: Semana Santa (technically the end of March) and Feria de Abril.
Semana Santa is a week-long religious celebration leading up to Easter. The processions, with people carrying centuries-old religious floats, dressed in what looks to be KKK hoods (but are not, because the Catholic church claimed them first) followed by marching bands happen all over the city. The festival draws thousands of people to the city to watch them. This year, Semana Santa will take place at the end of March.
And then comes the Feria de Abril, a week of non-stop partying that starts two weeks after Easter – which usually runs from April 14 until 20th. Imagine yourself in traditional Spanish attire, dancing flamenco, and enjoying tapas under a sea of colorful lanterns and traditionally decorated casetas.
To top it all off, April weather is just perfect – not too hot, not too cold. Temperatures linger around the low to mid-20s on the Celsius side, which means in the 70s for the Americans. You get to enjoy the best sightseeing weather, with the city in full bloom for spring.
Other attractions worth adding to your Seville itinerary include iconic landmarks like the Cathedral, Giralda, and Alcazar. You can get to Sevilla by flying into Seville Airport or taking a high-speed train from Madrid.
Scotland [Highlads Road Trip]
☀️ Scotland Weather In April: 36° – 48°F
Recommended by Jess at Uprooted Traveler
Scotland is incredible to visit year-round, but April is a particularly awesome time, thanks to lower crowds, longer days, and less rain (but you should still bring a rain jacket—it’s still Scotland!). Plus, you can enjoy the springtime wildflowers and newborn lambs sprinkled across the impossibly green hills.
This country is full of incredible destinations, so it’s best explored via a road trip. For example, mosey around the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh, enjoying its fairytale architecture and quaint pubs. Don’t miss the Sheep’s Heid Inn, which is the oldest pub in Scotland, dating all the way back to the 1300s.
The Scottish Highlands are the highlight of any trip here and will be especially beautiful in the springtime, thanks to the green hills. One of the best ways to see the Highlands is to take the real-life Hogwarts Express train in Scotland, a vintage steam engine that weaves its way from the charming town of Fort William, across the wild Atlantic coastline to the small fishing village of Mallaig. Alternatively, there are plenty of incredible hiking trails, like the Lost Valley Hike in Glencoe, to explore its landscape.
End your trip on the Isle of Skye, which is insane! The Old Man of Storr is one of the most popular hikes here, offering otherworldly basalt formations and jaw-dropping views of Bearreaig Bay.
Monaco [Luxury on a Budget]
☀️ Southern France Weather In April: 52° – 61°F
Recommended by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades
If you’re looking to explore what life is like for the ultra-wealthy, a fun place to visit is Monaco. Situated along the French Riviera and just a short train from Nice, Monaco has an average high temperature of around 61°F and average low temperatures in the low 50s °F during April, which is much warmer than most other regions of Europe. Great weather for admiring the most luxurious yachts in the world from a harbor cafe!
Along with its sunny climate, Monaco is usually more budget-friendly during this time of the year since there’s less demand. This means if you want to indulge by spending a night or two at one of the many opulent hotels in the principality, this is one of the best times to do it.
If you’re a tennis fan, there’s the annual Monte-Carlo tennis tournament in April that’s amazing, where the best players in the world compete. And if you’re a car fan, I thoroughly loved visiting the private cars collection of HSH Prince of Monaco – he has nearly 100 vintage and luxury cars!
So if you’re keen on a luxury getaway, there’s no better place than Monaco! It promises great views, great weather, slightly lower prices in April, and lots of extravagance.
Best Places to Visit in Europe In April For A City Break
If you’re keen on a city break, history, love museums, and nightlife, here are the best places to visit in Europe in April.
Split, Croatia
☀️ Croatia Weather In April: 52° – 64°F
Recommended by Vanessa of Traveling Ness
Split is a top destination in Croatia year-round for its mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful location along the Adriatic Sea, and an abundance of Roman ruins to explore. In April, you can enjoy the city without the crowds normally seen in the summer, and much lower prices.
Plus, the days are quite pleasant with temperatures hovering around 64 F, perfect for dining outdoors along the waterfront promenade, lounging on a beach, or visiting the dreamiest nearby islands like Hvar and Vis. Although the water might be a little chilly, seeing the beautiful coastline by kayak or boat is a must.
On land, Diocletian’s Palace is the most popular attraction in the old town section of Split. The well-preserved Roman ruins date back to around 300 AD and are a marvelous sight to see. The highlights to visit within the UNESCO World Heritage Site are the Cathedral, Temple of Jupiter, Bell Tower, Peristil, and Vestibule.
Split is an optimal place to stay as it is centrally situated along Croatia’s coast with quick access to several day trips such as Krka Falls, Klis Fortress, and wine tasting in nearby vineyards. With Split International Airport only 30 minutes away, it makes for an easy airport to travel in and out of Croatia.
Lyon, France
☀️ Lyon Weather In April: 43° – 61°F
Recommended by Lisa of Travel to Lyon
Lyon is a great place to visit in Europe in April and is one of my favorite cities in France. There are so many reasons that Lyon is worth visiting, from its food (it’s the gastronomic capital of France) to its amazing art and architecture.
Fun Fact: Although France is known for its wines, in April you can change gears and enjoy the Lyon Beer Festival. Also in April, the weather is starting to warm up but you can still get good deals on hotels.
In my opinion, Lyon has some of the best pastries in France. Start your day off at the Boulangerie du Palais. Try a brioche with the praline rose, Lyon’s famous pink sugared almonds.
One of the must-see places to visit is Lyon’s Notre Dame de Fourvière Basilica. I loved taking a guided rooftop tour of the basilica. The views of Lyon from the top are simply breathtaking!
Be sure to take some time to check out Lyon’s unique trompe-l’oeil murals. You’ll be stunned by the realism of the Fresque des Lyonnais and Mur des Canuts murals!
Lyon is located in the southeastern region of France. Most people fly into Paris and take the high-speed train to Lyon.
Marseilles, France
☀️ Southern France Weather In April: 49° – 65°F
Recommended by Elisa from France Bucket List
In Southern France, Marseille is an excellent place to visit in April. While the temperature in March can be cold sometimes, Marseille in April has moderate crowds and an ideal climate with temperatures that reach up to 16°C so it is ideal for cultural stuff, a hike to the Calanques of Marseille-Cassis (too hot to do in the summer), or a more relaxing boat trip.
Marseille is one of the main hubs in Provence, easy to reach by train from the main French cities. From Paris, it’s only a 3.5-hour journey to Marseille Gare Saint-Charles by direct TGV (fast train).
Once in the city, a stroll around the Old Port, Marseille’s beating heart, is a must. Not far from it is the historical Le Panier neighborhood, which is worth exploring, followed by a visit to Marseille’s Cathedral. With more time available, visit the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde and the Palais du Faro for beautiful sunset pictures of the Port.
For dinner, we like to hang around Cours d’Estienne-d’Orves or Place Thiars, where restaurants have outdoor terraces for the beautiful days, perhaps preceded by a glass of pastis drink in one of the terraces of the Port.
Bordeaux, France
☀️ Spain Weather In April: 45° – 63°F
Recommended by Victoria at Guide Your Travel
Bordeaux, in southwest France, is renowned for its world-famous wines, and a trip to the city in April is so pretty. You can enjoy wine tours, explore famous châteaux, and just enjoy the laissez-faire French life. I loved sitting outside in one of the little cafes and enjoying a drink while taking in the views and historic surroundings. The Le Bistrot des Vignobles has beautiful outdoor seating and is the perfect spot for lunch, which I highly recommend.
Just a quick drive from the city is Saint-Émilion, a charming village known for its vineyards and medieval architecture, which makes for the perfect place to visit on a day trip if the weather is nice.
You can ride the little tourist train around Saint-Emilion and its surrounding vineyards, which is one of my favorite activities. It will take you to all the highlights and tickets even include a wine tasting at the Château Cantenac., which was absolutely delicious
Additionally, April marks the onset of a ton of cultural events and festivals, including the Bordeaux Wine Festival, showcasing the region’s finest wines and local gastronomy.
You can get to Bordeaux by flying, grabbing a train, or renting a car and making a road trip out of it.
Best Places to Visit in Europe In April On A Budget
For the budget-conscious traveler, there are a few places to Visit in Europe in April that will not break the bank. What’s more, these places are amazing for people who love history and hiking in some pretty epic backdrops.
Istanbul, Turkey
☀️ Istanbul Weather In April: 47° F – 62° F
Recommended by De Wet & Jin from Museum of Wander
With one foot in Europe and the other in Asia, Istanbul is a smashing city to visit any time of the year, but especially in April. It has everything for a fantastic city break, can be visited on a budget, and is the absolute epicenter of incredible food and historical sights (even before Jesus history!)
FUN FACT: While many associate tulips with the Netherlands, they actually come from Central Asia. The famous Dutch tulips were imported from the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century – take that Amsterdam!
After our third trip to Istanbul, we’ve found the ideal time both weather and beauty-wise. April in Istanbul is just stunning, with the city’s famous tulips popping up everywhere. The best place to see them is in Gülhane Park, in the center of historical Istanbul, a short walk from famous sights like the Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, and the Topkapi Palace.
Colorful flowers aside, Istanbul sees comfortable spring temperatures in April, perfect for exploring the city on foot. And best of all, you don’t have to elbow through the crowds descending on the city in summer. With four days in Istanbul, you can see all the beautiful sights in the city, and there is even time for a day trip by ferry to the pretty Princes’ Islands, which are also perfect in spring.
Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
☀️ Croatia Weather In April: 52° F – 64° F
Recommended by Shweta Singhal at Zest In A Tote
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most popular attractions in Croatia. More than 1 million visitors each year come to Plitvice Lakes National Park – can you believe it?! You get to see stunning bright blue lakes, waterfalls, dense forests, and more all in one spot. Summer gets super crowded so it is better to visit Plitvice Lakes in the spring months: March or April. The weather is pleasant and you can really enjoy the beauty of this natural heaven on earth.
It is possible to take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes from either Split or Zagreb, but I would recommend an overnight trip to appreciate the area fully. There are a few great hotels inside the Plitvice Park to accommodate for staying a couple of days. Staying close to the park allows you to do the Upper Lakes and the Lower Lakes area on 2 consecutive days without rushing through.
If you were to explore only the Upper Lakes area at a stretch, like we did, it is easy to access from Entrance 2. We took Route E to explore the Upper Lakes, which is 5.2 km long and takes about 2-3 hours. The Lower Lakes area gets crowded, so try and come as early as possible. This can be easily accessed from Entrance 1. For the best routes and scenic spots, check out this travel guide on Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Harrogate, United Kingdom
☀️ UK Weather In April: 40° – 53°F
Recommended by Ksenia of Explore with Wonder
Tucked away in North Yorkshire, UK, Harrogate is a quaint Victorian spa town. If you love beautiful architecture, traditional tea rooms, quirky antique shops, and the occasional spa session, you should add Harrogate to your list.
The reason why April is a great time to visit Harrogate is because this is when the town comes alive with beautiful bursts of pink from cherry blossoms. They normally bloom in late April and last for about two weeks.
You can catch the cherry blossoms in the beautiful green spaces around the town, including the Stray, Montpellier Gardens, and my personal favorite, the Heritage Valley Gardens. Harrogate is beautiful all year round, but the cherry blossoms take it to the next level.
Away from the cherry blossoms, I highly recommend booking a spa session at the traditional Turkish Baths. With their beautiful tilework, stained glass windows, and Moorish arches, these elegant baths will whisk you back to Victorian times.
Harrogate is a fantastic option for a weekend break or a stopover on a Yorkshire road trip. You can travel to Harrogate by train from London or other major UK cities, with a changeover in Leeds.
Europe In April Weather
Here is the lowdown on what to expect weather-wise in Europe in April, as well as what to pack, and what I think are the best and worst places to visit based on weather.
Northern Europe Weather in April: Think of April as the teaser trailer for spring. You’re not quite in full-blown warm weather, but it’s definitely better than winter. Cities like Paris and Amsterdam are kinda cool with temps hovering between the low 50s and mid-60s Fahrenheit.
Travel Tip: Pack layers and be prepared for a mix of sunny days and chilly nights. This is a great time for city sightseeing, perfect for strolling around without hordes of tourists!
Southern Europe Weather in April: Now, this is where the party’s at in April! Places like the Canary Islands, Malta, and parts of Italy and Greece are basking in mild, sunny weather. We’re talking about comfy temps in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Ideal for some outdoor fun, whether that’s hiking or just chilling at a café, or soaking up the sun.
Travel Tip: April is a great time to experience local Easter celebrations and festivals, like the ‘Nuit des Musées’ in Paris or King’s Day in Amsterdam. And let’s not forget Feria de Abril in Sevilla!
If you’re after good weather and beachy spots, Cyprus, Greece, Malta, Italy, and Spain are where it’s at. You’ll get a nice mix of culture, history, and nature without the extreme temperatures. Unless you love the tail-end of colder weather, maybe hold off on the far northern spots that are still thawing from winter. While Cornwall, the UK in general, and Norway have their moments in April, it’s cold as hell.
Remember, this is just a general guide. Always smart to check the weather closer to your trip. ✈️
FAQ: Visiting Europe In April
I love April in Europe because it feels like people are starting to wake up from the cold of winter. And that means festivals, street parties, a shift in the nightlife, warmer weather, and happier locals. Here are some logistical questions that might come up as you start planning a trip to Europe in April.
Where in Europe is the warmest in April?
If you’re chasing the sun in Europe this April, I’ve got some hot spots for you – no pun intended.
The Canary Islands is like Europe’s sunny playground. In April, these Spanish islands are perfect for beach lounging or exploring volcanoes. Malta is also a sunny little gem. The islands of Italy, like Sardinia and Sicily, are also gorgeous in the springtime, with fewer tourists and more peaceful vibes. Cyprus is also often the go-to for warm European destinations in April. It’s sunny, pleasant, and perfect for an early dip in the Mediterranean.
Last but not least, Southern Coastal Spain and Portugal are my personal favorites and are known for their mild and sunny spring weather. It’s the kind of weather that screams ‘road trip along the coast’.
Is it a good time to go to Europe in April?
Yes, the weather is warming up, especially in southern Europe and the islands I wrote about above. April is also off-season, which means fewer crowds, fewer tourists, and better prices all around. I usually come out of my shell and start traveling in Europe around April for these reasons.
Is April off-season in Europe?
Yes. April is considered off-season in most parts of Europe – not too hot, not too cold, just right for an adventure without the crowds. So, if you’re up for some exploration with a side of peace and quiet (and who isn’t?), April in Europe is your best bet.
What is the cheapest time to go to Europe?
Generally, the cheapest time to fly to Europe is during the winter months, specifically from January through March. You can find significantly lower airfare prices compared to the peak summer months. For example, a round-trip ticket from New York to Amsterdam could cost as little as $450 in February, while in July, it might be between $1,200 to $1,500.
A lot of the places on my list are going to be less frequented spots (except for the city breaks). This is great for the wallet because flying into smaller, less frequented airports rather than major capital cities can often be cheaper too. For instance, flying from New York to Brussels instead of Paris, and then taking a train to Paris, could be more cost-effective. Western European train connections are usually fast, on time, and relatively inexpensive, but remember to book your train tickets in advance to avoid higher prices.
So, if you’re flexible with your travel dates and ready to embrace Europe’s late winter, and early spring charm or the tranquility of the off-peak seasons, you can enjoy the old continent without breaking the bank!
What are the best things to do In Europe In April?
There are a few best things to do in Europe in April. One of my favorites is to hit up the islands early on, especially Sardinia, Sicily, Malta, Cyprus, Mallorca, and Menorca. You should also pay attention to the spring Festivals happening in Sevilla and Paris. And don’t miss out on the tulip season in Amsterdam or the Northern lights in Norway and Iceland.
Where can I hike in Europe in April?
The gondolas and lifts in the Swiss Alps and Dolomites are not quite yet open, so my best recommendation for hiking will be in Spain and Portugal, specifically parts of the Santiago de Compostela Camino and the Fisherman’s Way coastal walk in southern Portugal.
There is also great hiking on the islands of Sardinia and Mallorca in April because the weather is absolutely perfect and the tourists have not invaded the trails yet. However be warned, the massive groups of bikers are out in April.
What are the warmest beaches in Europe in April?
The warmest beaches in Europe in April are going to be on the islands. This includes in the Canary Islands, the Island of Malta, Mallorca of Spain, the Italian islands of Sicily and Sardinia, and the western islands of Greece.
Final Thoughts: Best Place To Visit In Europe In April
Some of my favorite places in Europe in April have been:
- The Algarve, Portugal – the weather is in the low 70s, the sun is out, and the coastal hiking and beaches are amazing in the region. If you see the Algarve in the summer, you’ll be glad you went in April.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – This is peak tulip season, and I will never forget visiting Keukenhof Gardens in all its glory!
- Sevilla, Spain – Sevilla in April goes wild with street parties for Feria de Abril. Everyone is dressed up in traditional flamenco, dancers are in the streets, people are showing off their Andalucian horses, pop-up food and sangria stalls open up, and it’s an all-out fairground and party in Sevilla.
The weather in April in the south of Europe is ideal for folks looking for warm weather, averaging 60-75°F depending on where you are. Northern Europe is about 10° chillier on average, but you get some gorgeous springs in places like Amsterdam, Normandy, and Prague. Unless you love the tail-end of colder weather, maybe hold off on the far northern spots that are still thawing from winter.
My last few bits of advice will be to layer up because the weather can be a mixed bag, to check out the local Easter celebrations and April festivals, and to enjoy the quieter streets of Europe at lower prices. Safe travels!
