Best Places to Visit in Europe in April: 21 Top Spring Destinations in 2026

Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons in Europe. The days get longer, the weather becomes warmer, and nature slowly comes back to life after winter.

April is especially colorful, flowers start to bloom, trees turn green, and many cities and landscapes look fresh, bright, and full of energy.

It’s also a wonderful month for sightseeing. April is outside the busy summer season, so you can enjoy famous attractions with fewer crowds and more pleasant temperatures. Many places host spring festivals, flower events, and outdoor activities, making this time of year even more exciting.

Because Easter often falls in April, it’s also a popular month for short breaks and long weekends. It’s the perfect moment to take a breath, enjoy the outdoors, and discover somewhere new in Europe.

In this travel guide, you’ll find 21 of the best spots to visit in Europe during April, all divided into five categories to help you choose the right destination.

First, you’ll see a quick overview with all 21 places listed by category. Then you can read about each destination in detail. And at the end of the article, you’ll find a FAQ section with the most common questions about traveling to Europe in April.

So, let’s start with the quick overview:

After the overview, let’s take a closer look at the 21 best spring destinations in Europe, presented in detail and grouped into the five categories:

Warmest European places to visit in April

These are the best places in Europe where you can already enjoy warm weather in April:

1. Malta

Malta is a great choice in April thanks to its warm weather, lower prices, and smaller crowds compared to summer.

You can explore Valletta, visit places like St. Paul’s Cathedral, and take a trip to Gozo Island for scenic villages and beaches.

The sea is still too cold for swimming, but spots like Popeye Village and the Blue Grotto are beautiful all year.

At the end of April, you can also enjoy the Malta International Fireworks Festival.

Whether you stay for a few days or longer, Malta is an ideal spring destination.

2. Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful places in Italy, famous for its steep mountains, colorful houses, lemon groves, and romantic seaside towns.

It’s a popular destination all year, but April is one of the best times to visit. Spring brings fewer tourists, cheaper prices, blooming flowers, and many sunny days, perfect for walking around, taking photos, and enjoying the views.

The most visited towns are Positano and Amalfi. The winding coastal roads offer many panoramic viewpoints where you can stop and admire the cliffs and the sea.

No matter when you visit, the Amalfi Coast is always a must-see, but spring makes the experience especially pleasant.

3. Andalusia, Spain

Andalusia is an excellent choice for an April trip.

Even though this region is very popular for its beaches in summer, April is more about city sightseeing and exploring, because the weather is warm and pleasant, but the sea is still too cold for swimming.

The best part is that you can travel here at lower prices and with far fewer crowds than in the hot summer months.

Spring is the ideal time to discover the beautiful Andalusian cities like Seville, Malaga, Granada, and Cordoba, which can be extremely hot and crowded in summer. In April, sightseeing is much more comfortable and enjoyable.

Don’t miss the Alhambra in Granada, the Gibralfaro viewpoint in Malaga, the charming Colomares Castle, and Plaza de España in Seville, all stunning in spring.

If you’re planning a longer April holiday, Andalusia is perfect for a 7-, 10-, or 14-day trip with sunny weather and lots to see.

4. Sicily, Italy

Sicily is one of the warmest and most beautiful places you can visit in Italy in April.

Spring brings mild temperatures, lots of sunshine, blooming landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere before the busy summer season begins. It’s the perfect time to explore Sicily’s historic old towns, beaches, and natural sights without the heat or crowds.

You can stroll through charming cities like Palermo, Catania, Taormina, and Syracuse, visit ancient sites such as the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, or enjoy the incredible views around Mount Etna.

The beaches are not for swimming yet, but they look stunning in spring, perfect for coastal walks and photography.

April is also a great month for food lovers, as local markets are full of fresh produce, seasonal fruits, and Sicilian street food. Overall, Sicily offers a mix of culture, scenery, and pleasant weather that makes it a fantastic April destination.

Best cities to visit in Europe in April

These are the best European cities to visit in April:

5. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is one of the best European cities to visit in April. The weather is already warm and sunny, but the city is still much quieter than in summer. This makes April the perfect time to walk along the famous city walls, explore the Old Town, and enjoy the scenic views without the usual crowds.

You can visit the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, Onofrio’s Fountain, and the charming narrow streets of the old center. For one of the best views in Dubrovnik, take the cable car up to Mount Srđ, where you’ll find amazing panoramas and the popular Panorama Restaurant.

Entrance fees and hotel prices are also lower in April, which makes your trip more affordable.

Overall, April offers great weather, pleasant sightseeing, and a much more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for discovering this beautiful Adriatic city.

6. Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is one of the most beautiful cities to visit in spring. Besides its historic buildings and lively atmosphere, the city is also famous for its tulips.

Every April, Istanbul hosts the International Istanbul Tulip Festival, which fills parks and streets with huge tulip gardens and colorful floral displays. Alongside the tulips, you’ll also see daffodils, purple grape hyacinths, and pansies decorating the city, creating a bright and vibrant spring scene.

Of course, Istanbul has much more to offer. You can visit the city’s most iconic mosques: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Ortaköy Mosque, explore the beautiful Ottoman palaces, or enjoy boat rides along the Bosphorus Strait. The viewpoints along the Bosphorus are especially lovely in April, and the city’s amazing Turkish cuisine tastes even better in mild spring weather.

Istanbul is truly worth visiting in April, when the mix of history, color, and spring atmosphere makes the city feel even more magical.

7. Venice, Italy

Venice is not always the first place people think of for a spring trip, but April is actually one of the most beautiful times to visit.

The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for a city break, and spring means lower prices and a more relaxed atmosphere.

In April, the light in Venice is especially beautiful. The Grand Canal often glows in bright blue tones, and the colorful houses look even better in the spring sunshine.

While Venice is never completely quiet, April is much less crowded than the peak summer season. You can enjoy the city’s famous bridges, narrow canals, and historic squares without the overwhelming tourist numbers.

If you have time, don’t miss a trip to Burano, famous for its incredibly colorful houses and charming island vibe. It’s one of the most photogenic spots near Venice.

Venice is a great April destination if you want a unique, romantic place full of history, culture, canals, and beautiful spring light.

8. Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the best cities in Central Europe to visit in April.

The first half of the month is especially beautiful, when cherry blossoms and magnolias bloom across the city, covering parks and streets in soft pink colors. Even the gardens of Schönbrunn Palace come to life, making spring one of the nicest times for a relaxed walk.

Some of the best places to see spring flowers in Vienna are the Votive Church, Stadtpark, and the Japanese Garden. But the city has much more to offer: impressive historic buildings like the Hofburg, the Belvedere Palace, and elegant streets full of cafés and museums.

And of course, you shouldn’t miss Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel or Kaiserschmarrn.

Vienna is interesting all year round, but in spring it feels especially charming thanks to the blossoms, mild weather, and peaceful atmosphere.

9. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a great city to visit in April.

The weather is mild and sunny, perfect for walking around the city and enjoying the famous sights without the heavy summer crowds. Spring is also more affordable, with lower hotel prices and shorter lines at popular attractions.

You can explore iconic places like La Sagrada Família, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and the Gothic Quarter. The waterfront and Barceloneta Beach are also lovely for a spring walk, even if it’s still too cold for swimming.

April is a lively month in Barcelona, with outdoor cafés, local markets, and a relaxed spring atmosphere all across the city.

Barcelona is a great choice if you want warm weather, culture, architecture, and a vibrant city break before the busy summer season.

Best places in Europe in April on a budget

If you’re traveling on a budget, these destinations are great choices for an April trip:

10. Bay of Kotor, Montenegro

The Bay of Kotor is one of the best budget-friendly places to visit in Europe in April.

It’s still a lesser-known destination, but it offers an amazing experience with stunning scenery, charming towns, and affordable prices. The bay is a fjord-like area on the coast of Montenegro, surrounded by beautiful villages such as Kotor, Perast, and Herceg Novi.

The highlights are the Old Town of Kotor and the village of Perast. You can walk through Kotor’s medieval streets, hike up to the Kotor Fortress for fantastic views, and enjoy the calm Mediterranean atmosphere. In Perast, you can stroll along the waterfront or take a boat tour to the nearby islands and even the famous Blue Cave.

The climate in April is mild and pleasant, sometimes a bit rainy, but perfect for sightseeing. With great views and fewer crowds, the Bay of Kotor is one of the most beautiful and affordable places you can explore in the Balkans.

11. Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar is one of the best places to visit in Europe in spring, especially if you’re traveling on a budget.

The city and its surroundings look beautiful in April, with green landscapes, flowing rivers, and pleasant weather. There are also fewer tourists, so you can enjoy the sights in a calm and relaxed atmosphere.

Mostar’s historic attractions, like the famous Stari Most bridge and the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, are interesting all year. But the natural spots around the city are especially stunning in spring. Kravica Waterfall is full of water and very colorful in April, and the Buna Spring in Blagaj, with the Dervish House next to it, looks amazing at this time of year.

If you want an affordable European trip for a few days in April, Mostar is a great choice.

12. Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a wonderful budget-friendly European city to visit in April.

The weather is mild, the city is full of spring colors, and prices are still much lower than in summer. April is also less crowded, so you can enjoy the historic streets and famous landmarks in a more relaxed way.

You can explore the Old Town Square, walk across the Charles Bridge, and visit Prague Castle without the usual heavy crowds. The riverside paths along the Vltava are especially nice in spring, and many parks and viewpoints around the city start to bloom.

Prague also has great food, cozy cafés, and affordable hotels, perfect for a short and budget-friendly spring city break.

13. Tirana, Albania

Tirana is one of the best budget-friendly cities to visit in Europe in April.

The weather is warm and sunny, prices are low, and the city has a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. April is also a great time to explore Tirana’s colorful streets and modern cafés before the busy summer season begins.

You can walk around the lively Skanderbeg Square, visit the Bunk’Art museums, and enjoy the cafés and restaurants in the popular Blloku district.

For great city views, take the cable car up to Mount Dajti, which looks especially nice in spring.

Tirana is also a great base for day trips to places like Lake Bovilla, Krujë, Berat, or for a longer Albania road trip, all beautiful and affordable in April.

Best natural attractions in Europe in April

If you’re looking for beautiful natural attractions or want to go hiking in spring, these places will amaze you:

14. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most beautiful natural attractions and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The park has 16 turquoise and emerald lakes connected by countless waterfalls, all surrounded by deep green forests. Wooden paths and bridges make it easy to explore the area and enjoy the views up close.

April is a great month to visit Plitvice Lakes because the water flow is strong after winter, nature is starting to turn green, and the park is much less crowded than in summer. The shorter routes take around 2–3 hours, while the medium ones take 4–6 hours, which is the best option if you want to see most of the lakes and waterfalls.

Plitvice is home to rich wildlife, including rare species like wolves, owls, lynx, and even brown bears, and the lakes look amazing in spring light. It’s one of the best natural places to visit in Europe in April.

15. Green Lake, Austria

Green Lake (Grüner See) is one of the most beautiful natural places to visit in Austria in April. It’s located in the mountains of Styria, not far from Graz, and is famous for its crystal-clear emerald water and stunning mountain scenery.

The lake’s water level changes throughout the year, but it looks its best from April to June, and April is often the perfect month to see its bright green color.

This peaceful mountain lake is a great spring destination if you enjoy nature, photography, or easy walks in a quiet, scenic environment. The surrounding forests and alpine views make Green Lake an unforgettable place to explore in April.

16. Velika Planina, Slovenia

Velika Planina is one of Slovenia’s most popular spring destinations.

This high plateau in the Slovenian Alps is famous for its traditional wooden chalets and the huge fields of purple crocus flowers that bloom in April and May. These endless flower meadows are the main reason I love visiting in spring.

You can reach Velika Planina by mountain lift or by car, although the road is bumpy, so it’s only recommended for experienced drivers.

Because the blooming period changes slightly every year, it’s best to check local webcams before your trip. Once the snow melts, the crocuses start to appear, and that’s the perfect time to visit.

While Velika Planina is pretty all year, spring is by far the most beautiful season, thanks to the colorful flower fields and bright alpine scenery.

Other places to visit in Europe in April

Here are some other great places in Europe that are perfect for an April getaway:

17. Meteora, Greece

Meteora is one of the most unique natural and cultural places in Europe, and April is a wonderful time to visit.

The weather is mild, nature is green and colorful after winter, and the crowds are still much smaller than in summer.

Meteora is famous for its monasteries built on top of huge rock pillars, creating one of the most impressive landscapes in Greece. In April, the views are especially beautiful, with fresh spring colors, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures for walking or hiking.

You can visit several of the historic monasteries, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, and explore the hiking trails around the rocks. The whole area feels peaceful and spiritual, and spring adds a soft, pleasant atmosphere to the experience.

18. Cinque Terre, Italy

Cinque Terre is one of Italy’s most scenic coastal areas, made up of five colorful fishing villages along the Ligurian coast.

It’s a very popular summer destination, but the crowds can make it overwhelming, which is why spring is one of the best times to visit.

April brings pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the villages, walking along the famous hiking trails, and enjoying boat rides between the towns. Most places are open in April, and while some opening hours may still be shorter, the experience is much calmer and more enjoyable than in summer.

Prices are also lower in spring, the landscapes are beautiful, and the sea and mountains create a stunning backdrop for photos. I have visited Cinque Terre in early April myself, and it was a wonderful time to explore the area without the usual crowds.

19. Amsterdam & Tulip fields, Netherlands

Amsterdam is one of the best places to visit in Europe in April because it’s the peak of the tulip season.

The Netherlands is famous worldwide for its spring flowers, and April is when the tulip fields are in full bloom. The annual Tulip Festival brings bright colors and amazing flower displays to the whole region.

April has perfect weather for exploring Amsterdam’s city center. You can walk along the canals and visit famous landmarks like the Royal Palace, the Anne Frank House, the NEMO Science Museum, and the Rijksmuseum.

One of the biggest highlights is Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, a must-see place during tulip season, filled with millions of flowers.

You can also visit iconic Dutch windmills around Amsterdam and Rotterdam, with Kinderdijk being one of the most popular and photogenic spots.

Amsterdam and the surrounding tulip fields offer a special spring experience that you can only enjoy in April.

20. French Riviera, France

The French Riviera is a beautiful place to visit in April, when the weather is mild, the flowers are blooming, and the crowds are still small compared to summer.

You can explore elegant cities like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, enjoy the famous seaside promenades, and visit charming hilltop villages such as Èze or Saint-Paul-de-Vence. The Mediterranean scenery looks amazing in spring, with clear blue water and colorful gardens everywhere.

April also brings lower accommodation prices and a more local atmosphere, so you can enjoy the French Riviera without the summer heat or the busy tourist season.

21. Lake Como, Italy

Lake Como is a wonderful place to visit in April, when the weather becomes mild, the lakeside towns start to bloom, and the whole region still feels calmer.

Spring brings colorful gardens, green hills, and clear views over the water, perfect for relaxing walks and scenic boat rides.

You can explore beautiful towns like Bellagio, Varenna, and Como, visit historic villas with gardens full of spring flowers, and enjoy the quiet lakeside promenades before the busy summer season begins.

April is also much more affordable than usual, with lower hotel prices and fewer tourists. This is a big advantage, because Lake Como is normally one of the more expensive areas in Italy.

If you enjoy nature, charming villages, and relaxing lake views, Lake Como is a fantastic April destination.

So these were the 21 best places in Europe that I think are most worth visiting in April.

If you still have questions, keep scrolling!

In the next section, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about traveling in Europe in April.

FAQ: What to know about visiting Europe in April

Is April a good month to travel to Europe?

Yes, April is a great month to visit Europe. It’s especially beautiful in places with spring flowers and in Southern Europe, where the weather is already mild and pleasant.

Tulip fields, flower gardens, and spring festivals reach their peak in April, and many destinations look fresh and colorful after winter.

Southern Europe is also still in the off-season, which means lower prices, fewer crowds, and ideal conditions for sightseeing.

While April is usually not beach weather, it’s perfect for almost everything else: city walks, photography, outdoor cafés, nature trips, and exploring new places.

Benefits of a spring trip to Europe

The exact benefits depend on the destination, but in general you can expect:

• Beautiful spring flowers and festivals
• Lower hotel and flight prices
• Pleasant weather for walking and sightseeing
• Smaller crowds at popular attractions
• Longer days and great light for photography
• A calmer, more relaxed travel experience compared to summer.

Which part of Europe is best to visit in April?

Southern Europe is usually the best choice in April, including Italy, Spain, Greece, Malta, Cyprus, Portugal, and many Balkan destinations. These regions already have mild temperatures, lots of sunshine, and a lively spring atmosphere.

Flower-filled places in Northern and Western Europe, such as the Netherlands and parts of Germany or Belgium, are also excellent choices because April is the peak of tulip and blossom season.

In contrast, Northern Europe and alpine regions can still be cold or snowy, and the weather is more unpredictable. That’s why this list mainly focuses on places that offer pleasant April weather and enjoyable spring conditions.

April weather in Europe

April weather varies widely across Europe, but overall it’s a mix of mild temperatures and fresh spring days.

Most destinations on this list have daytime temperatures between 10°C and 25°C (50–77°F).

A light jacket is useful in almost all regions, and short rain showers are common.

Southern Europe is usually warm and sunny, while Central and Northern Europe can still feel cool at times, but they offer beautiful spring landscapes and flowers.

Is April beach weather in Europe?

Usually not.

In most European countries, only the summer months, especially July and August, offer true beach weather.

In April, the sea is still very cold across Europe, and swimming is not recommended.

However, sunny beach walks and coastal views can be wonderful in places like Malta, Sicily, Andalusia, Crete, and Cyprus, where the air is already warm even if the water is not.

Travel costs in Europe in April

Traveling in April is much cheaper than in summer.

Hotels can be up to 50% cheaper, flights often cost less, and many attractions have lower spring prices.

It’s hard to give exact numbers, but in many destinations from this list you can easily find good hotels for under €100 per night for two people.

Spring is also more budget-friendly because restaurants, tours, and entrance fees tend to be cheaper compared to the high season.

Is Europe crowded in April?

Most of the time, no.

April is considered a shoulder season, which means comfortable sightseeing without the heavy summer crowds.

The only exception is Easter week, which can be busy in some cities, especially in Italy, Spain, France, and major capitals.

Outside Easter, April is generally calm and easy to travel.

Where is the best country to visit in April?

I think Italy is one of the best choices.

Many parts of Italy have pleasant April weather, long sunny days, blooming spring landscapes, and fewer tourists than in summer. Coastal towns, lakes, and historic cities all look beautiful in April, making it a perfect month for a spring trip.

Where is the best vacation spot in April?

If you prefer warm spring weather, southern destinations are ideal.

Malta, Sicily, Andalusia, Crete, and other Mediterranean regions offer mild temperatures, sunshine, longer days, flowers, and a relaxed spring atmosphere.

These places are perfect if you want an early-season escape without the crowds and heat of summer.

So, this was the list of the 21 best European destinations to visit in April. I hope it gave you inspiration and helps you plan a wonderful spring trip.

Whether you’re dreaming of mountain views or coastal towns, this list has great ideas for every type of April getaway. From flower fields and charming cities to boat trips and hidden gems, you’ll find plenty of places worth exploring.

April is one of the best months to explore Europe: pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and amazing seasonal scenery. If you have the chance to travel, it’s definitely the perfect time to go.

If you want more tips or detailed planning help, check out my guides and itineraries for each destination. They’re full of practical advice to make your trip even easier.

And if you’ve already chosen your April destination, don’t wait too long: book your trip, your hotel, and your tickets, and get ready to enjoy one of the beautiful places on this list!