Europe Beckons in Spring: Budget-Friendly Adventures and Cultural Gems

Cinque Terre, Italy


Amsterdam, Netherlands


Lanzarote, Tenerife, and The Canary Islands, Spain


Lagos, Sagres, and The Algarve, Portugal 


Paris, France


Galway, Ireland


Lisbon, Portugal


Dubrovnik, Croatia


Sicily, Italy


Seville, Spain


Barcelona, Spain 


Florence, Italy


Prague, Czech Republic 


Vienna, Austria


Budapest, Hungary


Athens, Greece


Edinburgh, Scotland

If you’re lusting after a holiday that involves hiking, beautiful views, and colorful villages, the Cinque Terre is for you. “The Five Lands” from north to south are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. There are hotels in each of the five villages, or you could choose to stay in nearby Biassa or La Spezia, where the IC trains stop. Many properties in the region will have a daily shuttle to Riomaggiore, and from there you can set your pace of exploring. A train runs between all five villages, but for those looking for more adventure, you should consider the Cinque Terre hike that links the towns and provides amazing scenery. Just make sure that the paths are open when you visit. The trail going south from Monterosso to Vernazza is definitely worth all the steps, as the view of Vernazza is spectacular. Of course, fresh seafood is abundant in the towns, and you can explore the coast by boat or kayak. With temperatures in the mid-60s and the likelihood of rain diminishing, April is the perfect time to visit Cinque Terre before the summer crowds arrive.

With its location right in the middle of charming Manarola, it’s hard to top La Torretta when it comes to convenience. However, it is also one of the most charming spots in town, with quaint rooms that include perks like Nespresso machines. You’re within an easy walk of the train and marina, and breakfast is free.

While Amsterdam isn’t exactly warm and sunny in April, this is still one of the best times to visit the city. Why is that? You might have heard of the Netherlands’ most famous flower once or twice: the tulip. If you time your visit to mid-April or later, you’ll arrive at peak tulip season, when the massive fields surrounding the Dutch capital are most spectacular. Keukenhof Gardens is the place to see these beauties in bloom and is only open for 51 days per year (30 of which are during April). It’s about a 35-minute drive from central Amsterdam, though packages that bundle transport and admission are available as well. Of course, there’s plenty to do in the city itself. Amsterdam hosts its own Tulip Festival in April, and several major music festivals generally occur during the month. The Canal Ring and other neighborhoods are packed with restaurants and cafes, and the whole scene is generally just incredibly charming. Make sure to give yourself time to visit major sights like the Rijksmusem, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House.

The Pulitzer Amsterdam is a pinch-yourself stay right in the atmospheric heart of the city. We love the inner Canal Ring location, as well as its spacious rooms, classic-meets-modern style, and incredible Clefs d’Or service. It’s also provides canal tours on a historic boat, which are free for hotel guests.

While you shouldn’t expect crowd-free beaches in the Canary Islands in April, it’s hard to argue with almost zero rainfall, sunny skies, and warm temperatures after a long, grueling winter. If you’re looking for lively beach vibes and are willing to pay a premium, the hotels of Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas and Tenerife’s Playa de las Americas are certainly alive at this time of year. However, if you’d like something more peaceful and a bit otherworldly, you’d do well to head to Lanzarote or stick to the interior and northern regions of Tenerife. Both offer stunning, rugged landscapes that crash into mind-bogglingly blue seas, making for incredible scenery around almost every corner. We recommend renting a car to reach either island’s beautiful landscapes best. On Lanzarote, check out the volcanic terrain of Timanfaya National Park and the picture-perfect crescent bay of Playa de Papagayo. On Tenerife, head to Las Cañadas del Teide National Park (or opt for a tour).

With a sharp contemporary design and a boutique size, La Isla y El Mar is one of our favorites on Lanzarote. It’s located at the western edge of Puerto del Carmen and offers features such as in-room Nespresso machines, saltwater pools, and a spa.

Looking for warm days and light-jacket nights plus nearly always sunny skies? Head to the Algarve in April. While the water might be too cold for a dip in any of the seaside towns that make up the region, an April visit is perfect for strolling the region’s more charming towns and taking in the dramatic coastal scenery. We recommend spending most of your time in Lagos, which has a hard-to-top charming historic core, along with some of the region's prettiest beaches (and seaside cliffs). While April isn’t quite a beach season, surfers are more than welcome and eager to get into the water. The beaches of Sagres — the westernmost of the Algarve towns — are legendary for surfing (and far less crowded in April). The landscapes in this region are also unbelievable. Make sure you rent a car to crisscross the region. Other cool towns include beautiful Tavira, at the region's eastern edge, and the more local inland hills.

Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort & Hotel is a chic luxury village makes a great home base for a couple nights in Sagres at the beginning or end of your trip. Expect spectacular sea and countryside views plus sports facilities and a great spa.

Yes — Paris is always a good idea. And Paris in April is a particularly good idea, as this already pretty city is bursting with early blooms. You’ll have to contend with the possibility of wet weather — on average, the city sees eight days of rain in April — but that’s all the more excuse to tuck into a romantic cafe or hit up one of Paris’ incredible museums, like the Musee d’Orsay or the Louvre. The major plus to visiting Paris in April is that you’re safely missing the summer high season in the city when rates on hotels become prohibitive, and flights are sometimes over $1,000 round-trip from the United States. The likelihood of warmer temperatures also means that bike tours of Versailles — a must-do for any Paris visitor — are a better bet than in winter.

This gorgeous boutique hotel on the Right Bank stands out for its sleek design that subtly nods to the court of Marie Antoinette. Rooms feel like chicly pared-down boudoirs, with handmade beds with satin sheets — and destination dining and drinking isn’t to be underestimated.

While Ireland might not be the first destination that comes to mind for an April vacation in Europe, trust us, it’s worth it. Temperatures are pretty mild — averaging around 55 degrees Fahrenheit — and it usually only rains about nine days a month. Of course, this is Ireland, and weather can change on a dime, so you’ll still need to be prepared for potential wet days. We suggest basing yourself in Galway. Here, the charming Latin Quarter makes up the heart of town, and you’ll find tons of friendly bars and buzzing pubs with live music (The King’s Head is a must-see 800-year-old bar.) Plenty of quaint shops sell Irish crafts, and the River Corrib provides a lovely setting for a romantic walk. Head west of the Corrib for a taste of the more local foodie side of town. We suggest taking an excursion to nearby Burren and the famous Cliffs of Moher. If you feel comfortable driving on the left side of the road, you can rent a car and explore County Galway of nearby County Clare. You’ll see 16th-century castles and fairy-tale-worthy sights like Kylemore Abbey.

Situated right at the edge of Galway’s buzzing Latin Quarter, the House Hotel is one of the city’s original boutique hotels. Expect bright, homey decor, cozy rooms, and a restaurant that draws a mix of locals and tourists alike.

Portugal’s location in southern Europe makes it an ideal location to visit any time of the year, but mid-spring is all the more enchanting. While much of Europe is still rainy and chilly in April, the average temperature in Lisbon hovers in the high 60s. That makes exploring the city all the more pleasant. There are plenty of shops, historic bars, and cafes throughout the neighborhoods of Baixa, Chiado, Bairro Alto, and Alfama. We also recommend St. George’s Castle, dating to the 12th century, which sits on a hill in central Lisbon and has stunning city views. After that, head to Belem, which is an easy and quick tram or train ride to the west. Belem’s historic sights include the Torre de Belem and the incredible Jeronimos Monastery. Another must-do in Belem is a visit to Pasteis de Belem, where the iconic pastel de nata may or may not have been invented in the 1830s. If you’re after something more modern, stop off at the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture, and Technology) or spend an afternoon at the lively LX Factory, which is packed with cafes, restaurants, vintage sellers, street art, and cool boutiques Other day trips include tours to the whimsical castles of Sintra. Lisbon also happens to be a stellar destination for LGBTQ travelers, with a small, but lively gay bar scene, and even hotels that cater to the community (like The Late Birds Lisbon).


Our Hotel Pick in Lisbon: Solar do Castelo


If you’re after an only-in-Lisbon experience, you can’t do better than a stay at Solar do Castelo. For starters, it’s the only hotel that’s located inside of the grounds of St. George’s Castle, putting you right in the middle of the city’s historic atmosphere. Yes, it means you’ll have to scale some hills to get home if you’re out exploring for the day, but what a home it is. Rooms are chic and charming, and the style throughout the property transports you to another era and place altogether.


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While “Game of Thrones” certainly made Dubrovnik famous, the truth is that this stunning Adriatic Sea city has been charming visitors for decades. If you’re in town because of your undying affection for the television series, you’ll quickly notice locations for scenes in King’s Landing, as well as Qarth and Slaver’s Bay. While that attention has translated to massive summer onslaughts of tourists, April in Dubrovnik can be a bit calmer. You’ll get to explore the walls surrounding Dubrovnik’s Old Town — which are some of the most well preserved in Europe — with less crowds. Inside of those walls, Dubrovnik’s quaint streets and alleys are made of stone and lined with bars and restaurants serving fresh seafood and Croatian wine. While the average temperature in April hovers in the mid 50s, you can also expect warmer days that make strolling around all the more pleasant.

There’s a reason why Villa Dubrovnik is one of the most popular hotels in this historic part of Croatia. For starters, its setting couldn’t be prettier, set on the Adriatic cliffs just a mile from the Old Town. The luxury amenities here are also hard to top — think: heated flooring, hot tubs, and sea-view balconies.

To say that Sicily is trending is an understatement. If you’ve been paying attention, you’ll know that social media has been lighting up with pictures of its pretty beaches, stunning towns, and beautifully aging (and chaotic) cities. We also happen to think Sicily in April is pretty much perfect. Temperatures are in the mid 60s and skies stay drier than the winter months. You’ll also be missing the hordes of tourists that descend upon historic destinations like Catania and Syracuse, letting you actually enjoy all of the atmosphere. Palermo buzzes year round, and its equally majestic and crumbling core is worth more than a few days of exploring. Keep in mind that public transit it terrible across Sicily, so you’ll want to rent a car to get around. That gives you plenty of opportunity to explore destinations from Mount Etna to Ortigia Island and the ruins of Taormina. Alternatively, you can opt for a tour that hits up a mix of Sicilian historic sights and beautiful natural destinations.

If you’re after views for days and charming boutique atmosphere, Hotel Villa Ducale in Taormina is a no-brainer. There are plenty of places throughout the hotel to take in those sweeping coastal views (including many of the rooms). Decor is certainly old-fashioned, but we love details like exposed wooden beams and classic tiling.

While we’ve cautioned you about visiting Europe during Easter, there’s on place where Easter and Holy Week are the reason for visiting. Welcome to Seville (Sevilla), where the ceremonies are surreal at this time of year. Don’t expect bargains — April in Seville means high hotel prices — and you certainly won’t have the town to yourself. Instead, you’ll need to book your hotel far in advance, as Seville’s Holy Week festivities are some of the most remarkable in the world. Expect a series of processions, including iconic costumes and pageantry, all starting and ending at the city’s magnificent cathedral. While Semana Santa (as it’s known in Spanish) is prime time for visiting Sevilla, you’d also do well to visit the April Fair (Feria de Sevilla). This historic event (dating back to the early 19th century) celebrates flamenco, food, and lights.

This cool boutique sits next to the Seville Cathedral, in the heart of the historic center. Why does that matter? All of the Holy Week processions begin and end at the cathedral. As a bonus, the rooms are fresh and modern, and there’s a rooftop bar with great cathedral views.

Spring brings comfortable weather for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and enjoying al fresco dining. April marks the beginning of the tourist season, meaning fewer crowds and shorter lines at popular attractions like the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Additionally, April sees the city come alive with cultural events and festivities, such as the Sant Jordi Festival, where the streets are adorned with colorful flowers and book stalls. Spring also brings a burst of color to Barcelona's parks and gardens, with blooming flowers adding to the city's picturesque charm. 


The city's Gothic Quarter and El Raval neighborhood offer immersive experiences in history and vibrant street art. Known for Catalan cuisine in traditional dishes like paella and tapas, which are best enjoyed at Barcelona’s bustling markets and seaside eateries, which will be less crowded in April than in the summer months. Art lovers will find inspiration in museums like the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miró Foundation. At the same time, the city's sunny Mediterranean climate invites outdoor exploration along its golden beaches and scenic Montjuïc hill. For more outdoor adventure, Barcelona boasts a lively street culture, from La Rambla to El Born, captivates with bustling markets, street performers, and trendy boutiques.

This 28-room boutique hotel is located in the Gothic Quarter of the city, within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions. If that’s not enough, it has a rooftop lounge, pool, a hanging garden, onsite tapas bar, and restaurant despite its small size.

The city is a treasure trove of art, culture, and history, renowned as the birthplace of the Renaissance, with iconic landmarks such as the Florence Cathedral, adorned with Brunelleschi's magnificent dome, and the Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the world's most celebrated masterpieces. Visitors can immerse themselves in the works of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli, among others, while exploring the city's numerous museums and galleries.


Florence's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to wander through centuries of history at every turn, discovering hidden piazzas, vibrant markets, and bustling artisan workshops. April offers mild weather, fewer crowds compared to peak season, and the chance to see the city's Renaissance treasures in beautiful light.

You can live like a prince when you stay at the Grand Hotel Baglioni Firenze- it was once home to Bertolini princes and comes complete with ornate decor and spacious rooms (rare in historic buildings). Enjoy gorgeous views from the rooftop garden in between sightseeing.

April is a wonderful time to visit Prague, offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months. Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, where you can admire the iconic Astronomical Clock and visit historic landmarks like the Old Town Square and the Charles Bridge. You can explore Prague Castle, one of the largest ancient castles in the world, and wander through its picturesque courtyards and gardens. Take advantage of the smaller crowds and visit the stunning St. Vitus Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that dominates the Prague skyline.


Prague is home to a lively performing arts scene; you’ll find the Czech Republic’s National Theater or catch a classical music concert in one of the city's historic churches. April also marks the start of the outdoor festival season, with events like the Prague Spring International Music Festival and the Prague Food Festival showcasing the city's vibrant cultural scene.


Venture outside the city center to explore the charming neighborhoods of Vinohrady and Žižkov, known for their trendy cafes, quirky art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.

Set in a renovated 16th-century building, the 43-room Archibald at The Charles Bridge is located on the Vltava River, just below the Charles Bridge. It is within walking distance of Old Town attractions. Enjoy downtime in the landscaped outdoor courtyard, as well as free Wi-Fi and iPads.

Spring is the perfect time to visit Vienna, with mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and festivals. The milder temperatures make perfect conditions for touring the city on foot or bike, which is pleasenter still thanks to the fewer crowds you get during summer. The fewer crowds also mean shorter lines at the top attractions in the city. 


April hosts a variety of festivals in Vienna, and the years that Easter is in April, you’ll be able to delight in the Easter markets- much like the popular christmas markets, with traditional crafts and food for sale. The Styrian Spring Festival is in April when the square in front of Rathaus (city hall) is flooded with booths, cabins, and floral displays by people from the Austrian province of Styria. You’ll find people wearing the traditional dress of the Styrian people (including Lederhosen) and can delight in cuisine featuring pumpkins and apples. Fans of Blues will love the Vienna Blues Spring Festival, which takes place in April and May. 


Visitors can soak in the beauty of the spring by taking a stroll through the numerous parks and gardens throughout the city. No trip to Vienna would be complete without a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, which features stunning gardens that will be just blooming. Belvedere Palace has gorgeous gardens, offers stunning views of the city, and hosts an impressive art collection.

Full of grandeur, luxury and history, the Grand Hotel Wien is located in Vienna’s Kaerntner Ring, an ideal location near the Vienna State Opera and Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien. The hotel has five restaurants, two bars, and four outdoor cafes, as well as a spa, sauna, and fitness center. 


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Spring brings milder temperatures, making it a great time to relax in the city's thermal baths and explore its historic sights. Visitors can bask in the beauty of the blooming flowers at The City Park, Margaret Island, and Buda Castle Walls. 


The Budapest Spring Festival takes over the city in April, offering forty events in thirty locations celebrating Budapest's cultural heritage. Visitors will be delighted by various performances, including classical music, ballet, theatrical productions, and contemporary art exhibitions. 


Visiting during shoulder season means the city’s famous thermal baths will be less crowded, a huge bonus when visiting. The Gellért Thermal Baths opened in 1918 and leave guests awed by the art-nouveau decor surrounding them as they take a dip in the pool. Even older are the Szechenyi Baths, which opened their doors in 1913. Delight in their large octagonal pool, or let loose at one of their famous bath parties on Saturday night. 


Another way to take advantage of the smaller crowds is by exploring the historic Buda Castle district. Wander along the cobbled streets and eat at one of the cafes with stunning Danube River views.  History lovers will delight in the Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fishermans Bastion - all found in the Buda Castle district.

The Corinthia Hotel is a stunning Neoclassical building near historic and cultural sights. It offers every amenity you’ll need during your stay, including a heated indoor pool, breakfast buffet with outdoor seating, a piano bar, fitness center, and on-site spa.

For anyone wanting to visit Greece but are deterred by the heat of the summer months, April offers comfortable temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Smaller crowds, and blooming plants, and (often) Easter celebrations make April an ideal time to visit Athens. 


Avoid the masses that typically visit popular spots like The Acropolis, a must-see for any visitor. This hilltop citadel that was home to several important ancient Greek buildings, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Erechtheion, and the Propylaia.

The National Garden and Athens Botanical Garden are both in bloom in April, making a perfect spot to relax and explore during your stay, without the hot temperatures of the summer. The Anapsυχtiria (traditional Athenian taverns) are worth visiting for their outdoor seating, offering delicious traditional Greek food and drinks.

While winter might be a bit cold to visit Scotland, April is a great time to visit Edinburgh to explore the city's historic sites without the summer crowds. 


According to VisitScotland April offers comfortable spring weather in Edinburgh with highs reaching the low 60s, making it ideal for exploring the city compared to the peak summer months, which are crowded and hot. 


Edinburgh also hosts a variety of events celebrating spring and the changing season; like the Edinburgh International Science Festival, a renowned celebration of science and technology aimed at all ages, featuring talks, workshops, and interactive exhibits; bringing a unique and interesting event to the city, perfect for families visiting during spring break. 


Late April brings vibrant displays of spring flowers in Edinburgh's parks and gardens. Visitors can expect to see blooming tulips, daffodils, and cherry blossoms, particularly in areas like Princes Street Gardens and The Meadows. The Royal Botanical Gardens open March 1, with Rhododendrons already blooming, with even more flora abound in April.

The 188-room Balmoral Hotel has been hosting guests since 1903, and has whatever type of room you need, from compact to mutli-roomed suites. It’s five restaurants include a Michelin-rated one, and a Scotch bar. It is conveniently located above the Edinburgh train station on Prince Street.