Six Great European Destinations for Spring Travel
Spring is one of the best times to travel in Europe—flowers are blooming, temperatures are mild, and the crowds of summer haven’t yet arrived. If you’re looking for destinations that offer charm, culture, and beauty without the hustle and bustle of major metropolises like Paris or Rome, this list is for you. Whether you prefer strolling through historic villages, exploring scenic towns, or soaking in the peaceful countryside, these destinations are perfect for a spring getaway.
1. Provence, France
When spring arrives in Provence, the rolling hills burst into color with fields of poppies and early lavender. The weather is ideal for wandering through small villages like L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known for its canals and antique markets, or Roussillon, famous for its ochre cliffs. Visit local vineyards, enjoy fresh produce at outdoor markets, and take leisurely walks through the countryside without the summer heat.
Spring Highlight: The cherry blossoms and almond trees in bloom, especially in the Luberon region, create a postcard-perfect landscape.
2. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia’s charming capital is compact, walkable, and stunning in spring when the riverside cafés come alive, and the parks are in full bloom. Ljubljana has a fairy-tale atmosphere with its castle perched on a hill, cobblestone streets, and Art Nouveau architecture. Plus, it's an easy gateway to Lake Bled, where you can take a traditional pletna boat to Bled Island for breathtaking views.
Spring Highlight: The Ljubljana Botanical Garden is at its best in spring, making it a peaceful retreat just steps from the city center.
3. The Cotswolds, England
If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through a storybook village, spring is the perfect time to visit the Cotswolds. Rolling green hills, thatched cottages, and blooming gardens make this one of England’s most picturesque regions. Visit villages like Castle Combe, Bibury, and Stow-on-the-Wold, where you can enjoy cream teas and countryside walks with fewer tourists than in summer.
Spring Highlight: The wildflower meadows in full bloom and baby lambs dotting the fields make for an unforgettable countryside escape.
4. Porto, Portugal
While Lisbon gets much of the attention, Porto is a wonderful alternative with its historic charm, riverfront beauty, and excellent wine. Spring is perfect for strolling across the Dom Luís I Bridge, exploring the colorful Ribeira district, and enjoying a scenic boat ride on the Douro River. And, of course, no visit is complete without sampling port wine in the nearby Douro Valley.
Spring Highlight: The Festa de São João, held in late spring, fills the city with music, dancing, and fireworks.
5. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is like stepping into a fairy tale, and spring makes it even more enchanting. The canals are lined with blooming flowers, the weather is mild enough for boat rides, and the historic center is less crowded than in peak summer months. Indulge in Belgian chocolate, climb the Belfry for panoramic views, and take a bike ride into the countryside.
Spring Highlight: The Begijnhof courtyard is filled with thousands of daffodils, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.
6. The Netherlands (Beyond Amsterdam)
Amsterdam is lovely in spring, but for a quieter experience, head to smaller Dutch towns like Delft, Leiden, or Giethoorn. These picturesque locations offer charming canals, historic windmills, and beautiful spring gardens. The Keukenhof Gardens, one of the most famous tulip displays in the world, is an easy day trip from any of these towns. Or consider a visit to Aalsmeer, the world’s largest flower auction! As a bonus, it’s easy to combine Belgium and the Netherlands into one trip.
Spring Highlight: Mid-April is peak tulip season, and you can rent a bike to cycle through endless fields of vibrant flowers.
Final Thoughts
The more I explore Europe in the off-season, the more I realize how crowded and unpleasant places can be in the summer. If you can swing it, spring is the perfect season to explore Europe at a slower pace, avoiding the summer crowds while enjoying gorgeous scenery and mild weather. Have you visited any of these places in spring? Or do you have a favorite hidden gem? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your travel experiences!