With travel bucket lists constantly growing longer and the urge to travel constantly growing stronger, consider visiting Europe this spring. The season of rejuvenation in Europe brings forth many happy and worthwhile experiences that account for the natural beauty of this place. We’ve compiled a list of the best cities to visit in Europe in the spring to get a taste of the charm each destination has to offer.
There are no shortage of must-see attractions, landscapes, and events across Europe, no matter the destination. Each country has specific cuisines, unparalleled sites, and historic importance. Above all, the mild spring weather compliments every experience. The cherry on top? A recent study reveals that travel therapy can benefit those dealing with mental health issues. For instance, entering a new environment, and consequently having new experiences, facilitates both cognitive and sensory stimulation.
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Back to the list! We’ve collected the best cities to visit in Europe in spring by examining 10 expert websites and seeking the most suggested cities. We also considered where these locations ranked on their list. Of course, you may entirely disagree with this — and that’s fine! Let us know which one is your favorite city or the one that is on your bucket list in the comments.
The List: Best Cities to Visit in Europe in the Spring, According to Experts
1. Dublin, Ireland
“Dublin is a great destination for a city break and despite the possibility of rain, the city will still provide ample things to see and do. Enjoy a drink in the famous temple bar, go on walking tours, or if the weather is nice enough then head to the parks to relax. Also during the spring is the MusitTown festival, Bloom in the Park and Dublin Dance Festival,” writes Travel and Destinations.
“In the United States, St. Patrick’s Day is often used as an excuse to chug green beer and don tacky ‘Kiss Me, I’m Irish’ merch. But in Dublin, the holiday is a more restrained and family-friendly celebration of Ireland and its patron saint—except maybe in the crowded Temple Bar district, which temporarily resembles Bourbon Street in New Orleans,” says Frommer’s. “To mark March 17 like a Dubliner, pop into a traditional pub with live music or, if you’re really interested in Ireland’s contributions to the field of booze, tour the Guinness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery. Dublin’s five-day St. Patrick’s Festival features all sorts of events on Irish history, art, music, and literature, culminating in a jolly parade on the big day that starts at Parnell Square and ends, naturally, at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.”
“If you enjoy nature, head to the coast or the Phoenix Park, one of the largest walled city parks in Europe. History fans will enjoy the many museums (most of which are free), Dublin Castle or a visit to Kilmainham Gaol. Literary fans should visit the James Joyce Centre, the Book of Kells in Trinity College and the Chester Beatty Library at Dublin Castle. And foodies will be in heaven with the many cafes and restaurants across the city catering to every palate,” explains Travelling Thirties.
2. Paris, France
My Path in the World ranks it at the top of its list: “Traveling to Paris is a wonderful idea all year round, however, the French capital is definitely one of the best cities to visit in spring in Europe. The weather is usually nice and warm already with lesser tourist crowds compared to summer. On top of that, seeing the blooming flowers all around Paris is an unforgettable experience. Just think about magnolias and cherry blossoms (end of March/beginning of April), wisterias (end of April), or roses (mid-May).”
“Take advantage of the pleasant weather with a picnic lunch in front of the Eiffel Tower, stroll along the banks of the Seine, lose yourself in the beauty of Jardin du Luxembourg, or book a patisserie-themed walking tour,” writes Reader’s Digest. “Carve out a few hours to absorb the atmosphere of the très chic Left Bank district. Of course, the Louvre and the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés are requisite stops.”
“You will find a city that is full of excitement. Life is happening outside and you can feel how Paris wakes up from a long hibernation. If you are lucky enough to visit Paris during springtime, do it like the Parisians: enjoy a glass of wine on a terrace or take a sunny afternoon walk along the Seine,” adds Travelling Thirties.
3. Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Happy to Wander ranks Amsterdam second on their list. “The entire month of April in Amsterdam marks the citywide Tulip Festival, which brings hundreds of thousands of tulips to the city in the form of unique floral displays and drool worthy photo opps. Stick around long enough and you might even be in town for King’s Day, the Netherlands’ national day which sends eager partiers into the streets decked head to toe in orange.”
“Amsterdam is one of the most photogenic cities to visit in Europe and is perfect for a spring trip. Hire yourself a bike and experience the city like a local, or walk and explore at a slower pace. Whilst doing so just allow yourself to get lost amongst the streets and canals admiring iconic architecture mixed with blossoms and flowers. Other attractions include the Vondelpark, and for a fantastic experience head to Keukenhof,” says Travel and Destinations.
“Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, and it is certainly the best-known city in the country! And with good reason: its beautiful parks and canal corridors make it a city like no other in the world. Just as in Vienna, it is also possible to tour the entire city by bicycle — in fact, you will see more of them than cars on the streets!” concludes Western Union.
4. Athens, Greece
European Best Destination writes, “Athens is the place to go at least once in a lifetime. You will approach one of the greatest civilizations, discover its philosophers who have marked the world and our way of thinking. Athens is also a perfect destination for shopping day or night.”
“Considered one of the best times of the year to visit Athens, you will find signs of bloom around every neighbourhood and ancient monuments. The weather around these months is excellent and not too hot, but at the same time, you will be able to enjoy some cute and secret cherry blossom trees and jasmine flowers,” adds Italian Trip Abroad.
“March is carnival time and everyone is in a festive mood for the seven days of parades and parties. Monday 15 March, is Green Monday when everyone enjoys a vegetarian picnic in the sunshine. It marks the start of the 40 days of Lent when most people will be observing the fast. It is a tradition for everyone to fly kites on Green Monday and the local shops have plenty – the acrobatic ones are particularly challenging!” writes Travelling Thirties.
5. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Brogan Abroad mentions, “Ljubljana is one of my favorite European capitals. It’s compact and very walkable, so spring is the perfect time to visit, when the days are warmer. In fact, the best way to enjoy this beautiful city is by just wandering around – along the river, getting lost in the alleyways of the old town, or browsing the street markets. It’s certainly a city to be enjoyed outdoors.”
“The city isn’t packed with tourists yet, and you can peacefully enjoy all the great things to do in Ljubljana: wandering around the Old Town, going up to the castle, or finding all the dragons (a well-known European legend), just to name a few. Once you are done sightseeing, the numerous restaurants and cafes lined along the leafy banks of the Ljubljanica river wait for you to sit down, relax, and be amazed by the spring blooming around,” states My Path in the World.
“An under-the-radar spring break gem that’s affordable, fun, and undeniably picturesque, Slovenia’s capital has a fairytale mix of Baroque, Renaissance, and Art Nouveau buildings. Cobblestone streets, expansive parks, the medieval hilltop castle, and the tree-lined Ljubljanica River also contribute to its postcard-worthy panorama. As the weather warms up, people begin to spend more time outside and alfresco cafes open up for the season. From a budget perspective, it’s even more good news. Rooms at high-end hotels, like the InterContinental Ljubljana and Vander Urbani Resort, cost a fraction of the price you’d expect to pay in other European cities,” concludes Reader’s Digest.
Sources:
- European Best Destination
- My Path in the World
- Brogan Abroad
- Frommer’s
- Reader’s Digest
- Happy to Wander
- Italian Trip Abroad
- Travelling Thirties
- Travel and Destinations
- Western Union
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