April Is Spring In Europe: A Perfect Time for Travel. Find Out Where To Go This April.
April is a great month to travel. Typically, apart from the Easter Break celebrated in Christian countries, there are limited school vacations in April making it both affordable and a quieter time to travel. April is spring in Europe so neither too hot nor too cold with a few exceptions of course.
April presents a unique opportunity to explore some of the most captivating destinations on Earth. From the ethereal landscapes of Iceland to the architectural marvels of the Barcelona and the vibrant culture of Rome, these locations offer unforgettable experiences that cater to a variety of interests. So, pack your bags and prepare to be enchanted by these perfect April getaways.
1. Iceland: Witness Nature’s Spectacular Show
April in Iceland is a time of longer daylight hours, milder temperatures, and a dazzling display of natural wonders. This month offers the last chance to catch the elusive Northern Lights before the summer months make them less visible. Moreover, as the snow melts, Iceland’s iconic waterfalls, such as Skogafoss and Gullfoss, roar to life, demonstrating the true power and beauty of nature.
In addition to these jaw-dropping sights, April is an ideal time to explore Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, including the famous Golden Circle route, where you can experience the raw energy of geysers and the tranquil beauty of Thingvellir National Park. For those seeking adventure, glacier hikes, ice caving, and whale watching excursions are widely available, offering a unique perspective on this remarkable island.
Base yourself in Reykjavik for some of the best day tours on offer, or hire a car and explore yourself.
Pros For Iceland
- Landscapes like nowhere else,
- Hot pools, spas and thermal baths
- Unique nature base places to see like Kerod Crater, the Geysers, Tectonic Plates, & the Blue Lagoon
- So many waterfalls you may get sick of them
- The possibility to see the norther lights
Cons for Iceland
- Its VERY expensive just to be there. Food, tours, drinks, are all wildy expensive in Iceland
- Volcanic activity: you usually will get warnings, but of course Iceland is volcanic and that can mean earthquakes and sudden eruptions
- Limited tourism season, which is why April is a great time to visit.
Day Tours In Iceland
Day tours are readily available in Iceland and considering the country is so expensive aren’t too badly priced.
Try Get Your Guide or Viator for fully cancellable day tours in Iceland.
Popular Multiday Tours Of Iceland
Explore Iceland With Nat Geo & G Adventures
No age limit. All the main hot spots (lol), and time in each location.
- 9 days
- Gold star rating
- From $5649 AUD
- Operated by G Adventures
Northern Lights Tour With Iceland Travel
A very comprehensive trip which even does the full ring road around the island.
- 9 days
- Silver star rating
- From $5008 AUD
- Operated by Iceland Travel
12 Day Iceland Self-Drive Grand Tour
Car rental and accom is all sorted, you just follow the route. Bfast is included.
- 12 days
- Start/ End in Reykjavic
- From $3025 AUD so very affordable
2. Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia
Barcelona is a captivating destination known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, and beautiful beach. Visiting Barcelona in April has several advantages, making it an excellent time to explore this fascinating city. Here are some reasons why April is a good time to visit Barcelona, along with suggestions for things to see and do:
Pleasant Weather: April falls during Barcelona’s spring season, characterized by mild temperatures and generally sunny days. The average temperature ranges from 50-64°F (10-18°C), making it a comfortable time for sightseeing and exploring the city without the extreme heat of the summer months.
Lower Tourist Crowds: April is not part of the peak tourist season in Barcelona, which typically starts in May and lasts until September. This means fewer crowds at popular attractions and a more leisurely experience when exploring the city.
Spring Blooms: April is a time when Barcelona’s parks, gardens, and public spaces come alive with colorful spring blooms. This is a great time to visit the city’s green spaces, such as Parc de la Ciutadella, Parc Güell, and the Jardins de Laribal, to enjoy the vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
Outdoor Activities: Barcelona’s pleasant weather in April makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities, such as strolling along the Passeig de Gràcia, exploring the vibrant El Raval neighborhood, or biking along the city’s extensive network of cycle paths.
La Sagrada Familia: Visit the iconic La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, which is less crowded in April compared to the peak season. Marvel at the breathtaking architecture and intricate details both inside and outside this magnificent basilica.
Discover other works by Antoni Gaudí, such as Casa Batlló, Casa Milà (La Pedrera), and Parc Güell, which are less crowded during April, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
Beaches: While the water might still be a bit chilly in April, Barcelona’s beaches, such as Barceloneta, Nova Icaria, and Mar Bella, are less crowded, making them perfect for sunbathing, walking along the shore, or enjoying the seaside atmosphere.
Sant Jordi Day: On April 23, Barcelona celebrates Sant Jordi Day (St. George’s Day), a unique local festival during which lovers exchange gifts of books and roses. The streets are filled with book stalls, flower stands, and various cultural events, providing a romantic and festive atmosphere.
Museums and Galleries: Take advantage of the lower tourist crowds in April to visit Barcelona’s numerous museums and art galleries, such as the Picasso Museum, the Fundació Joan Miró, and the National Museum of Catalan Art (MNAC).
Food and Tapas Bars: Barcelona is famous for its delicious cuisine and vibrant food scene. In April, enjoy the local delicacies at popular tapas bars, food markets like La Boqueria, or traditional Catalan restaurants.
How Long To Spend In Barcelona
Most people assume that you only need a few days for Barcelona. However, I would consider spending at least a week and possibly 2 in this amazing city.
There are many day trips available from Barcelona so while you might stay in the city visits to Montserrat, Codorniu Cava Winery (Cava is sparkling wine in Spain – not the Fiji version we know in Australia), Girona, the Costa Brava and even Andora from Barcelona. This article showcases the best day trips from Barcelona which will help you to decide what you might like to do.
3. Rome: Italy’s City Of Culture
April is a fantastic time to visit Rome, Italy’s captivating capital, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. Visiting Rome in April offers several advantages that contribute to an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Here are some reasons why April is a great time to visit Rome:
Pleasant Weather: April falls during Rome’s spring season, characterized by mild temperatures and generally sunny days. The average temperature ranges from 48-66°F (9-19°C), making it a comfortable time for sightseeing and exploring the city without the extreme heat of the summer months.
Lower Tourist Crowds: Although April is becoming increasingly popular with tourists, it is still not as crowded as the peak travel months of June to August. This allows for a more leisurely experience when visiting popular attractions such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Vatican City.
Spring Fauna Is On Point: Rome’s parks, gardens, and public spaces come alive with colorful spring blooms in April. This is an excellent time to visit the city’s green spaces, such as Villa Borghese, Villa Ada, and the Orange Garden, to enjoy the vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
Outdoor Dining: As the weather warms up in April, many restaurants and cafes in Rome start to set up outdoor seating. This provides a delightful opportunity to enjoy Rome’s renowned cuisine and sip on an espresso or a glass of wine while soaking up the city’s atmosphere.
Easter Celebrations: If your visit to Rome coincides with Easter, you’ll have the opportunity to partake in various religious and cultural events, such as the Pope’s Good Friday Via Crucis at the Colosseum, Easter Sunday Mass in St. Peter’s Square, and other local processions and ceremonies. Be prepared for large crowds during this time though.
Natale di Roma: Rome celebrates its birthday, known as Natale di Roma, on April 21st. This annual event commemorates the founding of the city in 753 BC and is marked by various festivities, including historical re-enactment’s, parades, and concerts. Again, this does attract the crowds.
Accessible Day Trips: April’s mild weather is perfect for exploring the surrounding areas of Rome. Day trips to nearby destinations like Ostia Antica, Tivoli’s Villa d’Este and Villa Adriana, or the picturesque Castelli Romani towns are enjoyable and comfortable during this time of year.
You can also easily do Day Trips to the Amalfi Coast and Pompei.
Visiting Rome in April offers a combination of pleasant weather, lower tourist crowds, beautiful spring blooms, and unique cultural events. This makes it an ideal time to explore the Eternal City and fully appreciate its historic charm and captivating atmosphere.
Day Trips In And From Rome
Of course the rest of Italy is well worth visiting, so if you have more than a few days consider taking the time and heading up to Milan or Venice or even down to Sardegna.
4. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
April is one of the best times to visit Amsterdam due to its beautiful spring weather and the blooming of its iconic tulip fields. The city comes alive with vibrant colors, making it a picturesque setting for tourists and locals alike.
Visitors can enjoy the famous Keukenhof Gardens, which are at their peak bloom during this time. With over seven million flowers, the garden is a floral paradise featuring a spectacular array of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.
In addition to the floral displays, April also hosts the King’s Day celebration on the 27th, a lively event where the entire city turns into a giant street party with music, markets, and orange-clad revelers.
Stroll along the historic canals, visit world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, and explore the charming neighbourhoods. Amsterdam in April offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Of course no visit to Amsterdam is complete without a canal tour of the city and there are many options as to time of day and duration.
The Heineken Experience
I would also recommend a visit to the Heineken factory. I was really surprised how great this tour was.
While if you are a beer lover the tour is right up your alley, if you are not its still very interesting and I would still recommend it.
The Anne Frank house is also a very popular tourist destination in Amsterdam. We did a great Anne Frank walking tour of Amsterdam which showcased the Jewish Quarter and the history of Jewish people in Amsterdam. It doesn’t go into the house though. You will need to purchase tickets for the house months ahead.
You should allocate a few days for Amsterdam, simply so you can dedicate one of those days to visiting the windmills of Zaanse Schans along with Edam, Volendam & Marken on a day tour. It is a big day but its a great tour and a good sampling of the Netherlands culture and history.
Zaase Schans Tours From Amsterdam
5. Dubrovnik Croatia
Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning coastal city that is less crowded in April, allowing visitors to explore its historic sites without the peak summer crowds. The weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for strolling through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by impressive medieval walls.
Take a walk along the city walls for panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the red-tiled roofs of Dubrovnik. Explore historic landmarks such as the Rector’s Palace and the Sponza Palace, and visit the beautiful Franciscan Monastery. Dubrovnik is also an excellent base for day trips to nearby islands like Lokrum or the Elafiti Islands, offering scenic landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
Dubrovnik Adventures Worth Doing
I liked Dubrovnik WAY more than I liked Split. It is a great city that is affordable (as long as you don’t eat inside the city walls), has some great hidden gems and is worth a few days at the very least.
Consider doing:
- A Game of Thrones tour if you are a fan. Even if you aren’t you do get to see some great places on this tour. Alternatively just do a walking tour of the old town which will visit some of the same places but without the GOT references.
- Walk the walls of the Old Town. This isn’t free which surprises some people but I did think it was worth the fee to do it. Its 35 Euro and you can get your tickets on the day. Consider doing a walls walking tour for a guided tour with more info and local knowledge. The walking tours do not include the price of the ticket.
- Take a sea kayak tour which is a great way to see the city. You can choose from just a couple of hours to a full day. Check out all the sea kayak adventure tours available.
- Get out on the water with a visit to the Elaphiti Islands, the Blue cave or just a nice cruise. View all the possibilities for boat trips from Dubrovnik. I’m sure you will find something you like.
In April, Dubrovnik provides a tranquil and picturesque setting for cultural exploration and relaxation and as it is prior to the busy summer season, you should find everything available.
While you are in Dubrovnik maybe make the most of it and do a day trip to Montenegro. We did this day trip (we were running short of time) and loved it. We had way more time to ourselves than we thought we would and had a really nice day.
6. Edinburgh, Scotland
April in Edinburgh offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, with the city coming alive as spring arrives. The weather is crisp but pleasant, perfect for exploring the historic streets and stunning landscapes that surround the city.
One of the highlights of visiting Edinburgh in April is the Beltane Fire Festival, a modern revival of the ancient Celtic celebration of the coming of summer, featuring vibrant performances and dramatic fire displays on Calton Hill.
Visitors can explore the iconic Edinburgh Castle, which dominates the city skyline and offers breath-taking views of the surrounding area. Stroll down the historic Royal Mile, visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and explore the beautiful gardens of Princes Street Gardens.
For those who enjoy hiking, Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano, provides a stunning panorama of the city and is especially beautiful in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. This is a great hike and the views are really great.
Another great experience in Edinburgh is the Royal Yacht Britannia. Brad is a boat nut so of course this was on our list of things to do in Edinburgh. I thought I would suffer through the tour but actually loved it. You get an audio guide so people are usually pretty quiet and its really worth seeing.
You MUST buy your tickets in advance to guarantee admission and you can do that on the Yacht’s website.
We also did the Real Mary King’s Close Tour which was also worth it. It is pretty shocking to see how people lived in the day. The tour runs from right in the middle of the royal mile so easy to get to and its maybe an hour long. Its a good stop for the toilets too!
Day Tours In Edinburgh
Edinburgh in April offers a magical experience, with a perfect combination of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
Conclusion: Best Locations For Travel in April for Europe
Traveling in April allows you to witness Europe as it awakens from winter, with blossoming landscapes and lively cultural events that showcase the continent’s diverse heritage.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, cultural enrichment, or outdoor exploration, Europe’s springtime destinations offer something special for everyone. Embrace the opportunity to discover new cultures, savor regional cuisines, and create lasting memories in these remarkable places.
With so many incredible locations to choose from, April is the perfect time to embark on a European adventure that will inspire and captivate you.
Meet Jenny, a passionate Australian travel blogger who has explored 103 countries to date. With over 30 years of travel experience, Jenny has a wealth of knowledge to share with her readers about the cultures, landscapes, and people she has encountered on her journeys. She’s always battling unfashionably frizzy hair and you will never catch Jenny in anything but comfortable shoes. Learn more about Jenny and her travels.