April is an ideal month for travel, with warmer spring days, blooming flowers and quieter crowds, but it’s a time when events and activities are picking up.
This guide covers where to go in Europe in April and the best places for a memorable spring trip, balancing outdoor exploration with cosy indoor experiences.
Expand the Quick Navigation box below to explore the best places to visit in April and plan your itinerary.
+ Expand for Quick Navigation
Where to Go in Europe in April
April is a fantastic time to explore Europe as the weather starts to warm up and the vibrant colours of spring begin to emerge.
While some might be tempted to head straight for the Mediterranean’s sun-soaked shores, the chilly sea temperatures can be a bit of a drawback for those looking to enjoy the water.
This is why I recommend focusing on European cities where parks and gardens are in full bloom and sitting outside for an aperitif is finally possible again.
So, which are the best European cities to visit in April? The options are endless, but my top recommendations for city breaks this year are to follow.
1. Budapest, Hungary
Having once called Budapest home, I can personally attest to the city’s charm during springtime.
I recommend waking up early and catching the peaceful sunrise over Pest to really appreciate the city’s beauty.
For the best vantage points, consider making your way to either Gellert Hill or the iconic Fisherman’s Bastion. The following photos is from Gellert Hill.
The crisp spring air provides a nice contrast as you head into one of Budapest’s renowned thermal baths, making the experience all the more invigorating.
Budapest’s two most famous thermal baths are the Szechenyi Thermal Bath and the Gellert Thermal Bath. Both baths are fed by natural thermal springs, drawing visitors for relaxation and medicinal purposes.
- Szechenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest spa complexes in Europe, known for its beautiful neo-Baroque architecture. It’s located in the City Park and has a variety of indoor and outdoor pools.
- Gellert Thermal Bath is famous for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture, including elaborate mosaic interiors and a glass roof. It’s situated on the Buda side of the city, at the foot of Gellert Hill.
Read my full guide on what to do in Budapest for more travel ideas.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a brilliant destination throughout the year, but visiting in April presents some unique opportunities that are not to be missed.
A day trip to Keukenhof Tulip Gardens is a must, as you’ll be treated to stunning displays of vibrant flowers in every colour. I visited in April, and I’d love to return one day.
If you plan your Amsterdam visit towards the end of April, you can take part in the King’s Day festivities. Scheduled for the 27th April in 2024, this massive celebration transforms the city into one enormous street party, with most in orange attire.
While it’s true that the weather in Amsterdam during April can be somewhat unpredictable, don’t let the occasional grey day dampen your spirits.
Use these moments to explore the city’s world-class museums, such as the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum, or opt for a more offbeat experience at the Houseboat Museum.
Travel further: Extend your trip with this Netherlands road trip itinerary.
3. Riga, Latvia
For anyone drawn to Eastern Europe, the Baltic States provide fascinating travel experiences that can often be on the more affordable side.
Riga is the capital of Latvia and is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of Art Nouveau architecture.
They have entire neighbourhoods where Art Nouveau dominates. It’s great for exploring in spring.
While Riga might not be my personal favourite among the Baltic capitals, its appeal is undeniable and makes for an excellent budget-friendly weekend getaway.
If you have time for a more in-depth Baltic adventure, consider taking an Estonia road trip in my favourite Baltic country.
For more insights on visiting Riga, I recommend checking out Ferreting Out The Fun. The author is a former Riga resident who shares her knowledge and insider tips on making the most of your time in the city.
4. Paris, France
Paris is famous for many things, but one of the most unforgettable experiences is picnicking in its gorgeous parks in spring. I’m sure I’m not alone in that being a highlight of a trip to Paris.
Begin by visiting a local bakery to pick up a mouthwatering baguette sandwich and maybe a warm pain au chocolat.
Then, make your way to the incredible Jardin du Luxembourg or the Tuileries Garden, where you can settle into one of the iconic green metal chairs and savour your meal while indulging in some prime people-watching.
Paris devotes significant resources to its gardens each year, and it’s evident in the breathtaking tulip displays at Luxembourg Gardens and Parc Monceau, as well as the more intimate, meticulously sculpted gardens of the Palais Royal and Jardin des Tuileries.
For a unique experience, explore the Parc de Bagatelle or Bois de Boulogne. Alternatively, you can take a 20-minute train ride to witness the beautiful cherry blossoms at Parc de Sceaux.
Paris is hands down my favourite spring destination. For more inspiration, be sure to read my post on day trips from Paris, where you’ll find a huge number of suggestions for places to visit just beyond the city’s borders.
5. Siena, Italy
In the heart of Tuscany, Siena takes you on a journey into medieval Italy with its well-preserved historic centre, Gothic architecture, and the famous Piazza del Campo.
Tuscan cuisine is a highlight, with dishes like pappa al pomodoro (bread and tomato soup), ribollita, and the indulgent pici pasta, all complemented by the region’s exceptional wines.
In April, Siena is relatively cool compared to the hot and dry summer months, making it an ideal time to wander its ancient back alleys, soak in the vibrant atmosphere from the main square, and explore the surrounding Tuscan countryside in mild weather.
Travel further: For an extended adventure, consider taking a Tuscany road trip from Siena, winding through the region’s picturesque landscapes.
6. Barcelona, Spain
April is ideal for those seeking the warmth of southern Spain, with cities like Barcelona providing a perfect balance of mild and occasionally warm days.
This period before the peak summer season offers a calmer experience, given Barcelona’s crowds can get a little intense in summer.
The architectural masterpieces by Antoni Gaudí, including the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and La Pedrera (Casa Milà), attract fewer visitors at this time, so you’ll have shorter queues and more spaces to yourself.
Barcelona’s city beaches, such as Barceloneta, become idyllic spots for leisurely strolls or people-watching.
The city’s Mediterranean climate is great for outdoor dining, where you can enjoy Catalan dishes and the region’s celebrated sparkling cava.
Travel tip: To get a taste of Barcelona, I recommend this walking food tour in the popular El Born neighbourhood.
April also sees Barcelona’s cultural scene come to life with events like the Festival of Sant Jordi on April 23rd, which celebrates books, roses, and romance; it’s basically like a Catalan Valentine’s Day.
The famous market in the centre of Barcelona is La Boqueria, located on La Rambla. This bustling market is known for its fresh fruits and juices and an assortment of local specialties.
7. Athens, Greece
While my experience with Athens is limited to a single visit during the spring, I found April to be an excellent time for exploring the city.
Although occasional showers might occur, the overall climate is typically ideal for sightseeing.
The milder temperatures make visiting iconic landmarks, such as the Parthenon, much more enjoyable, as the trek up the hill can prove quite challenging in the summer heat.
Another advantage of travelling to Athens in April is the smaller crowds in restaurants, allowing for a more relaxed dining experience, especially in the chaotic Plaka district.
Note: Although visiting in April usually offers the chance to experience Greek Easter, a significant Orthodox celebration with delicious feasts, it’s important to note that in 2024, Orthodox Easter is on the 5th of May.
If you’re planning to experience this traditional event, adjusting your travel dates to early May could be worthwhile.
If you’re still looking for inspiration for travel in Europe, read this post on what I believe are the best places to visit in Europe, any time of the year.
Europe in Spring
Europe has endless travel possibilities in spring, with cities perfect for April visits before they get too crowded.
For eco-friendly travel, pick destinations within a two to four-hour train ride to reduce emissions and uncover local hidden gems.
For example, from London, Amsterdam is just over four hours away, Bruges is about three, and Cardiff, Bath, and York are all under two hours by train.
April’s warmer weather and smaller crowds make it an excellent time for a European adventure, from Budapest’s spacious streets to Barcelona’s lively atmosphere.
Whether you’re after the warmth of southern Spain, history in Athens, or the serene beauty of Paris, each place provides unique experiences this spring.
—
Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.