April marks the arrival of spring in Europe, and if you’ve traveled to Europe before, you’ll know that springtime is pure magic. As the winter frost melts away, the countryside bursts into life with vibrant blooms, mild temperatures, and an infectious sense of excitement for the coming summer.
There’s nothing quite like exploring a European city after a long winter—streets feel more alive, parks begin to flourish, and the buzz of outdoor cafes returns.
April is the perfect travel window—offering beautiful weather, fewer crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere. As long as you avoid school holidays, here are the best European destinations to visit in April.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam awakens from its winter slumber in April, marking the start of its early tourism season. The city becomes synonymous with one thing—tulips.
The Tulip Festival runs from March to May, transforming parks and public spaces into a sea of color. Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world’s most famous tulip gardens, is in full bloom during this time.
April is also the month of King’s Day, an electrifying national celebration honoring the Dutch Royal Family. The city turns into one big orange party, with parades, canal boat parties, concerts, and street festivals.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is stunning year-round, but springtime brings a special energy to the city. April welcomes the first warm days of the season, and outdoor dining and rooftop bars become the place to be.
Spring blooms reach their peak by late April, making it the ideal time to visit Lisbon’s gardens. Some private gardens, like Jardins Abertos, even open to the public for a few select days.
Expect warm afternoons, light breezes, and breathtaking views as you explore Portugal’s capital in April.
Skopje, North Macedonia
North Macedonia has become a top destination for hikers, offering untouched landscapes, affordability, and breathtaking trails.
Skopje, the capital city, is the perfect jumping-off point for outdoor adventures. In April, the weather is mild but refreshingly crisp, and the city remains largely tourist-free.
Beyond its natural beauty, Skopje boasts one of the Balkans’ largest markets, fascinating museums, and authentic local restaurants—all waiting to be explored.
Madrid, Spain
Madrid is always gorgeous, but spring transforms the city into a feast for the senses. The famous El Retiro Park erupts in colorful blooms, setting the scene for picnics, boat rides, and evening strolls.
The weather in April is perfectly balanced—not too hot, not too cold—making it an ideal time to wander through Madrid’s historic streets. Plus, with fewer tourists around, you can experience iconic attractions like the Prado Museum and Malasaña district without the crowds.
April also brings Semana Santa (Holy Week), a spectacular religious festival filled with parades and cultural experiences.
Graz, Austria
By April, Austria sheds its winter coat, making way for a lively spring atmosphere. Graz, a charming city just a short train ride from Vienna, is known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Graz is the capital of Styria, often called “The Green Heart of Austria.” Spring brings fragrant apple orchards, blooming gardens, and fairytale-like scenery.
The city’s Renaissance and Baroque architecture make it a dream to explore, and historic palaces and medieval streets add to its undeniable charm.
Ghent, Belgium
Few things are as magical as medieval architecture surrounded by blooming spring flowers, and Ghent delivers just that.
As the city shakes off winter, cafés spill onto the streets, gardens blossom, and cultural festivals begin. Ghent is home to over 150 parks, with Sint-Baafskouterpark and Maaseikplein being must-visits.
April 27th is Heritage Day, granting free access to top museums, historical sites, and archives throughout the city.
Bergen, Norway
Norway emerges from hibernation in April, making Bergen one of the best destinations to visit. Before this, it’s a fjord wonderland, but spring brings floral displays, cultural events, and outdoor activities.
Bergen’s location on the fjord makes it a hotspot for kayaking and water sports, while the surrounding mountains offer incredible hiking trails. April also marks the best time to see waterfalls, including Steinsdalsfossen, which is in full flow just outside the city.
Seville, Spain
Seville comes alive in April, thanks to its famous Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations. This Easter festival is a must-see, even for those without religious ties—it’s a spectacle of music, processions, and tradition.
Later in the month, Seville’s April Fair kicks off, bringing flamenco, fairgrounds, and vibrant festivities to the city.
Beyond the festivals, orange trees bloom by the thousands, filling the city’s streets with a sweet, citrusy fragrance.
Paphos, Cyprus
Cyprus gets hot in summer, making April the perfect time to visit before the peak season crowds arrive.
Paphos is known for its archeological ruins, stunning beaches, and mythological history—it’s believed to be the birthplace of Aphrodite. April also brings the Tulip Festival to Polemi Village, where fields bloom in a rainbow of colors.
Leipzig, Germany
By April, Leipzig begins to bloom, with cherry blossoms and vibrant spring flowers popping up around the city.
The city is known for its musical and artistic heritage, with world-class museums, galleries, and concert halls offering plenty to explore.
Leipzig is also called “The Water City”, and when the weather warms up, locals paddle along the Karl-Heine-Kanal, swim in park lakes, and hike through the Riverside Forest. After months of cold weather, spring breathes new life into the city, and locals make the most of it.
Final Thoughts
Springtime in Europe is an unforgettable experience—offering mild weather, stunning scenery, and fewer crowds. Whether you prefer blooming tulip fields in Amsterdam, historic festivals in Seville, or scenic fjords in Bergen, April is the perfect time to visit.
Which European city will you explore this spring?
