Spring is in full swing during the month of April in Europe and is the perfect time to see some of the continent’s best destinations. April is considered shoulder season still for many destinations. Warmer temperatures, blooming flowers and less tourists are all great reasons to pack your bags and set off exploring all the continent has to offer. But which destinations are especially great to visit at this time? We offer our travel ideas and inspiration with this list of the 6 best places to visit in April.
Paris, France
For travellers who are looking for a romanic spring getaway.
Paris is an iconic travel destination, and April is a great time to see all the city has to offer. Spring blooms are still abundant in the city’s many beautiful gardens such as Jardin Tuileries, Jardin du Luxembourg and the Palais Royal Gardens. For an extra treat, be sure to bring a croissant to enjoy while you stroll. Located just outside the city center, Versailles, one of the world’s most famous palaces, is perfect to explore during spring. The interior of the palace offers impressive views and rich history, but the highlight in spring has to be the surrounding Versailles gardens. April sees the gardens’ magical, musical fountain shows start again for the summer season.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Paris without a visit to the city’s best museums showcasing famous French artists and world antiquities. The main museums such as the Louvre, Rodin and Musee d’Orsay are excellent choices, but the city is also home to many less famous and some free museums with fabulous collections. Spring is the perfect time to enjoy exhibitions before the summer crowds descend.
April also sees fantastic festivals in the city. Bibliophiles will enjoy planning their trip around the annual Paris Book Fair (Salon du Livre). Thousands of authors and publishers attend this renowned event and offer workshops, book signings and exhibitions. From comic books to cook books, you will find it here!
Amsterdam, Netherlands
For travellers who want to experience the iconic fields of tulips.
Starting in late March and lasting until mid May, the countryside transforms into a sea of red, pink, purple and yellow as the most famous Dutch flower, the tulip, blossoms. While Amsterdam features street stalls filled with the iconic flowers, the best place to see them is a short day trip from the city center to the Keukenhof gardens. Read more about how to plan a day at the Keukenhof here.
Amsterdam is home to a variety of museums that are must sees. The Rijksmuseum is perhaps the most famous, which houses an incredible collection of Dutch and Flemish art with incredible works from the likes of Rembrant, Vermeer and Van Gogh.
The Van Gogh Museum is home to more of the artist’s works, but also provided an intimate look into his life. Here visitors leave with a greater understanding of the artist’s life and inner struggles. It is interesting to note the legacy of his art almost died with him, as it was his sister in law, Johanna Van Gogh, who dedicated the rest of her life to ensuring his work was seen and appreciated throughout the world. Her personal collection was instrumental in developing the collection seen in the Van Gogh Museum today.
A somber tribute to one of the many Dutch Jewish families lost in the Holocaust, the Anne Frank House showcases the living quarters that hid the family for 2 years. Visitors can see items that belonged to Anne and her family and learn about their lives with the museum’s free audio tours. It is advisable to book tickets ahead.
Cornwall
For travelers who want a quaint seaside escape.
Blooming flowers, dramatic sea views and countryside sheep farms dotted with newly born lambs. Spring in the Cornish countryside is the perfect destination for those who crave the quiet country life, and who don’t mind the unpredictability of English weather.
Summer in Cornwall sees an abundance of tourists, so appreciate the beauty of the region during its shoulder season. This region on the southwest tip of England is one of the country’s most popular vacation spots!
Cornwall is home to a stunning 300 miles of coastline, so one of the best activities is exploring the many beaches it offers. Boat tours are also another great way to see Cornwall, with a variety of excursions to choose from such as deep sea fishing and wildlife safaris. Cornwall is home to a variety of wildlife you can observe, such as dolphins, seals and seabirds.
Food enthusiasts will appreciate the Porthleven Food Festival hosted at the end of April which features the best delicacies from the region. Here you can watch demonstrations from some of the best Chefs the region has to offer, sample unique cuisines, explore farmers markets and enjoy live music shows.
Istanbul, Türkiye
For travellers who want to experience the beauty of two continents in one city.
Istanbul is a vibrant and unique city. Acting as a bridge between the European and Asian continents, you will find a deep and fascinating history, incredible food and beautiful architecture that blends the many influences of the peoples who have called Istanbul home.
April is a beautiful time to visit, with the city coming to life in beautiful shades of green and spring flowers being celebrated, such as the Istanbul Tulip Festival. This famous festival is held at a variety of parks throughout the city, such as Gulhane Park, Sultanahmet Square, Yildiz Park and Fethi Pasa Grove to name a few.
Another event held in April is the Istanbul International Film Festival, which was the country’s first film festival. Here you can learn more about Turkish cinema and its film industry. Don’t be afraid if you do not understand Turkish, many of the films featured have English subtitles.
In addition to the spring festivals hosted in the city, Istanbul has many other famous attractions that are a must visit. Architectural marvels such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Topkapi Palace have mesmerized visitors for centuries and showcase the city’s deep history. Bosphorus cruises are another popular activity with boat tours that allow visitors optimal vistas of Istanbul’s skyline. For an extra special tour, be sure to book a sunset cruise!
Istanbul is also world renowned for its amazing culinary delicacies. Be sure to try some of the delicious local specialties such as Sis Kebab, Lahmacun (Flat Bread), Menemen (Turkish Omelet) and Baklava.
Berlin, Germany
For travellers who love history and culture.
April is the perfect time to visit the historic city of Berlin, as it comes alive with vibrant festivals and an impressive array of attractions. One of the highlights of the season is the stunning sight of pink cherry trees blossoming throughout the city, creating a picturesque backdrop for exploration. Be sure not to miss the Tree Blossom Festival: Britzer Baumblüte and the Cherry Blossom Festival in the Gardens of the World, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of spring.
Additionally, April in Berlin offers a diverse range of cultural events and festivals. Gallery Weekend Berlin is held April 26 – 28 during 2024 and is a must see for art aficionados. During Gallery Weekend, 50 galleries in Berlin open with exciting exhibitions from new and well established artists. The European Arts and Craft Days are held on April 5 – 7, 2024 and are perfect for those interested in learning more about traditional craftsmanship. With over 130 designers and artists participating, it is the perfect opportunity to shop for souvenirs to remember your time in the city.
Berlin is a city that encapsulates a great deal of history, so no trip is complete without discovering its important sights such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe, Reichstag, East Side Gallery and Museum Island. The Tiergarten is one the the largest parks in the city, with the popular Berlin Zoo located inside it, it is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing.
With so much to see and do, April promises an unforgettable experience in this dynamic and historic city.
Iceland
For travellers who aren’t ready to say goodbye to winter.
While spring is in full bloom across the European continent, Iceland is the perfect destination for those who are not ready to say goodbye to winter just yet. Although not a typical “spring” destination Iceland is still one of the best places to visit in April!
April in Iceland brings a start to the longer days and warmer temperatures, with areas becoming greener thanks to the melting snow. However, it is still a great time to visit Iceland’s glaciers such as Solheimajokull or Vatnajokull, which are great destinations for active travelers who enjoy ice climbing and hiking. Of course all travellers should check local weather and safety conditions before attempting any activities as the spring weather can be unpredictable and change quickly.
While winters in Iceland are famous for Northern Light tours, you may still be able to catch this amazing phenomenon in the spring months. Head out to the island’s more remote areas or consider booking a northern lights tour to chase the auroras before the midnight sun arrives.
Iceland’s Golden Circle is another popular destination with many tour companies offering snowmobiling and other outdoor activities. The Golden Circle includes a number of Iceland’s most famous sights such as Langjökull Glacier, Gullfoss Waterfall and Thingvellir National Park.
Iceland is a land of incredible natural sights that are perfect to see in April, especially for those who still want to experience the island’s winter activities before the start of the summer.
Conclusion: Best Places to Visit in April
So concludes our list of the best places to visit in April. With the beauty of spring, these incredible places offer much to see and do and are perfect to enjoy before the many crowds come during the summer. April is a great time to experience all Europe has to offer, we hope this list has inspired you to consider one of these destinations on your next European adventure!
