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11 Best Places To Visit in Europe in April 2026: Easter, Sun & Cities
Europe offers up an alluring range of reasons to visit in April. The continent’s warmest spots are beginning to welcome back beach visitors as temperatures rise. Easter makes destinations such as Seville and Braga among the best places to visit in April in Europe for seasonal celebrations. And perhaps rather importantly, some off-season deals are still to be found.
The start of spring in Europe is also a great time to enjoy city breaks before the crowds arrive. However, remember that Easter in 2026 is on April 5th, which will increase prices and visitor numbers during the school holidays. As a result, some of the most popular European cities to visit in April, such as Paris, Rome, Barcelona, and many of Spain’s best cities, will be busy.
But, rather than proposing the typically crowded capitals as a pre-summer suggestion, I’ve tried to go beyond the most obvious destinations and highlight other April alternatives, each offering a seasonal speciality. Of course, a key consideration when planning where to go in Europe in April is deciding whether you want a beach escape, cultural trip, city break or adventure vacation. As such, I’ve broken down my suggestions for the best places to visit in Europe in April into four categories.
Warmest places in Europe in April for a beach holiday
If you want to find the warmest place in Europe in April, you’ll need to head south to some of the best beach destinations in Europe. While temperatures are starting to rise across the continent, there’s still a chance of grey days and showers in northern Europe – although spring wildflowers bring the colour. So, to (almost) guarantee beach-friendly weather, you’ll want to consider some of these best places to visit in April in Europe.
Cyprus
Sun-seekers can’t go wrong with Cyprus, one of the warmest places in Europe in April, for a beach holiday. Not only are the island’s golden sands and turquoise waters usually basking in a pleasant daytime 22°C (71°F), but there are also plenty of experiences away from the beaches.
From the ancient archaeological attractions of Pahos – such as the 4th-century BC Tombs of the Kings – to the border-defined city of Nicosia’s museums, Cyprus’ best attractions are varied and fascinating. Though, tearing yourself away from those gorgeous coastal spots such as Nissi and Aphrodite’s Beach will require a bit of willpower!
April highlights: Cypriots love a celebration, and there are plenty of festivals in Cyprus throughout the year. Orthodox Easter is a huge event on 12th April 2026, and the one-day-only Latchi Fish Festival (usually the third Saturday of the month) is also worth enjoying if your visit aligns.
Make it happen: Larnaca and Paphos are Cyprus’s two main airports, served by legacy and budget airlines in Europe. Flight-free options include ferries from Greece and Turkey.
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Best islands to visit
Dodecanese Islands, Greece
Who wouldn’t want to spend spring break eating halloumi, island hopping, and drinking crisp, chilled wine while watching epic sunsets? Well, that is precisely what you can expect while exploring Greece’s Dodecanese Islands. Situated in the Aegean Sea, the Dodecanese archipelago consists of the 12 largest and best-known islands, plus more than one hundred smaller isles, and combining a couple promises a perfect Greek multi-destination vacation.
Each of these has its own charm – and crystal-clear waters – so deciding where to go in Europe in April will depend on whether you want a more volcanic and remote island outpost such as Nisyros, an affordable sun-kissed resort escape in Kos, or a mix of culture, heritage, and beach on the largest island, Rhodes.
While these islands are among the warmest in Europe in April, with highs typically around 20°C (68°F), the evenings can be chilly. Still, if you avoid the Easter holidays, it can be an incredible time to visit and experience those whitewashed Greek corners without the crowds!
April highlights: The Feast of Agios Georgios in Pastida is celebrated across many islands around April 23rd – Rhodes’ celebration starts on the 22nd and lasts for two days.
Make it happen: Being popular during the school holidays, you’ll want to book your Greek getaway well in advance. Olympic’s Greece package holidays start from £274pp, including UK flights, and can be easily filtered by the island to help you find the best deal.
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Nisyros Island, Greece
Antalya, Türkiye
Antalya is the gateway to Türkiye’s Mediterranean south coast in Asia. However, given that part of Turkey is in Europe and Antalya’s proximity, I’d still class it as one of the best places to visit in April in Europe for a beach holiday. Not only do the turquoise waters offer plenty of relaxation opportunities, but there are also enough ancient sights and cultural attractions to explore if you get restless feet.
The Old Harbour is excellent for a stroll, and you’ll spot reminders of Antalya’s previous life as a Roman Port, particularly at the imposing Hadrian’s Gate. Being one of the warmest places in Europe in April, you can expect daytime temperatures of around 21°C (70°F) and pretty much guaranteed blue skies.
Make it happen: Accommodation options are available for all, ranging from luxurious resorts to more laid-back, budget-friendly stays. You’ll find more laid-back resort destinations along the coast, such as Belek and Side.
Best European cities to visit in April
If you’re looking for a city break rather than a beach getaway, these are my picks of the best European cities to visit in April. Of course, outside the Easter holidays, most major capitals are great to visit before the pre-summer rush, but these spots also have something extra to offer in April.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana is one of the best places to visit in April in Europe. Not only will you be greeted by a compact and cute capital city, but plenty of beautiful day trips into nature are available on the city’s doorstep. Sure, Ljubljana isn’t really a hidden gem in Europe anymore, but it will be less busy than nearby Venice or Dubrovnik over the Easter school holidays.
Thanks to the pedestrianised centre, it’s a delight to explore, including with kids. Whether you’re relaxing at a wine bar along the canal banks – try the local Zelen grape from the Vipava Valley, it’s delicious – climbing to the castle high above, or simply wandering between independent stores housed behind colourful facades, it’s a challenge not to fall under Ljubljana’s quirky, artsy spell. With a substantial university population and plenty of trendy coffee and wine bars in the centre, a night out here is also great fun.
April highlights: April events in Ljubljana include the ‘Slovenian Music Days’ – a classical concert event from the 17th April, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2026.
Make it happen: If you’re struggling to find direct flights to Slovenia (Ljubljana Airport is small), consider other nearby cities, such as Trieste and Zagreb, and then use a transfer service. A flight-free trip from the UK will take around 30 hours on FlixBus.
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Why visit Ljubljana?
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
If you want to combine the best of an April beach trip with grand architecture and many attractions, consider a city break in Palma. While the mercury is a little lower in the Balearic Islands than in the Canary Islands – daytime temperatures usually reach around 18°C (70°F) – Palma de Mallorca is about much more than the beaches.
Of the cultural and architectural offerings, the most impressive is Palma Cathedral, which towers above the town. The religious masterpiece, well-endowed with Gothic grandeur, took nearly 400 years to construct. Other notable sights include the Royal Palace and the intriguingly round Castell de Bellver. Art is also well represented in Mallorca, especially the works of Balearic creatives. The best collections are on display at Es Baluard and Fundació Miró. Combine this with the compelling dining scene and first-class nightlife – a far cry from nearby Magaluf’s revelry – and you’ve got everything you need for a city break.
Palma is also one of the best European cities to visit in April, as you could make it a week-long stay and enjoy easy day trips to some of Spain’s hidden gems, such as the Serra de Tramuntana, or the idyllic harbour village of Port de Sóller, reached by a rickety vintage train.
April highlights: Alongside the Easter celebrations of Semana Santa, or Holy Week (29th March to 5th April 2026), local events include the end-of-month Palma International Boat Show and regional foodie events in Andratx and Alcudia. Nearby hiking is tempting due to the wildflowers along the more rural trails.
Make it happen: Mallorca airport is one of Spain’s most significant and busiest, a testament to it being one of the best islands to visit in Europe for a city break. Therefore, you’ll find plenty of flight options from regional UK and EU airports and a new direct service from New York. A flight-free option is available by taking the overnight ferry from Barcelona or Valencia.
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Why visit Mallorca?
Copenhagen, Denmark
With temperatures thawing and the days getting longer, Copenhagen is one of the best European cities to visit in April. Not only are rain showers much less likely, but there are more than 50 excellent museums in Copenhagen and nearby to visit if the rain does come. On a quick weekend city break, you’ll be able to visit a couple of those excellent museums – the SMK Art Museum is a standout – and explore architectural treasures such as Christiansborg Palace, one of Denmark’s royal residences, and the Kastellet, a well-preserved fortress.
As Copenhagen was named the World Capital of Architecture in 2023 by UNESCO, you’ll also have plenty of modern architecture to appreciate as you cycle around the city. Other highlights include the colourful facades lining Nyhavn’s canal and the Tivoli Gardens, an extensive amusement park that opened in 1843, which helped make Copenhagen (alongside LEGOLAND) a family-friendly destination.
Of course, another benefit of visiting before the summer season is that accommodation prices are usually lower, which can help if you’re trying to visit Copenhagen on a budget. Given that the costs of travelling in Scandinavia can quickly drain your wallet, saving some Danish Krone on your lodging is certainly welcome.
April highlights: Flowers are a feature, with Tivoli Gardens opening for the season at the start of April, and Copenhagen’s Sakura Festival (cherry blossoms) takes place on the 18th and 19th April 2026.
Make it happen: Copenhagen Airport is well connected, with nonstop services to the US. The journey by train from the UK can take close to one day.
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Two days in Copenhagen
Where to go in Europe in April for adventures
If you’re crying out to enjoy the return of longer and warmer days, but on a hiking, cycling or sailing adventure rather than a beach, these are some of the best places to visit in Europe in April.
Jurassic Coast, England, UK
Let me introduce you to the region where I grew up, Dorset’s Jurassic Coast in South West England. This UNESCO-listed stretch of coast continues into East Devon and is hands down one of England’s best destinations. Why? Well, the clue to what makes this coastal marvel so fascinating is in the name. Crammed with geological features, countless fossils – some dating back more than 180 million years – have been found here. Even now, when you walk along the beach, you might stumble upon one yourself.
The Jurassic Coast is also great for outdoor adventure holidays in the UK. While April isn’t exactly beach weather in England, the wildflowers combined with more reliable weather make the coastal trails very inviting during this period. I would suggest trying to avoid the primary week of the UK’s Easter school holidays when it will be busy, but early or later in the month, it’s one of the best places to visit in April in Europe; from May onwards, England’s coastal destinations start to get much busier. If you’ve got more time, continue further south to explore some of the best places to visit in Cornwall before the summer crowds descend.
Make it happen: The best way to explore the Jurassic Coast is to hire a car. However, you can hop between the main sights using public transport. Weymouth would make a decent base if you don’t have a car, and it can also be reached by a direct train service from London. If you’ve got more time, continue further south to explore some of the best places to visit in Cornwall before the summer crowds descend.
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Dorset’s Jurassic Coast
Albania
It might not be one of the most obvious choices, but if you ask me, Albania is one of the best places to visit in Europe in April, especially if you want to enjoy outdoor adventures. While the coast is starting to warm up – daytime temperatures might reach 20°C (68°F) – and summer crowds are yet to descend, the country’s beautiful beaches aren’t the main reason to visit in April. Instead, I’d suggest focusing on inland adventures – or indeed coastal, such as paragliding high above the shoreline – to get your early-spring adrenaline kicks.
In the towering Accursed Mountains (Albanian Alps), the winter snow should have melted mainly by late March, opening up some epic hiking trails. The snowmelt also supports white-water rafting and kayaking on the Vjosa River. Lake Komani is another breathtaking spot for a boat ride or rural stay, and the National Parks of Theth and Valbona provide plenty of outdoor activities. Albania’s UNESCO sites – including the picturesque towns of Gjirokastra and Berat – are ready and waiting for a side of culture.
Not only is Albania one of the best places to visit in April in Europe, but you can continue the adventure to nearby Balkan countries with a road trip to Montenegro or Bosnia & Herzegovina.
April highlights: While Albania has no official religion, Eid al-Fitr and Easter (Catholic and Orthodox) are celebrated in Albania.
Make it happen: Tirana is the main airport getaway to Albania. However, you can also check the budget flight options to Tuzla or consider flying to Corfu (Greece) and taking the short ferry to southern Albania. Not only is Albania one of the best places to visit in April in Europe, but you can continue the adventure to nearby Balkan countries with a road trip to Montenegro or Bosnia & Herzegovina.
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Albania in photos
Where to go in Europe in April for Easter
While places near Rome, such as Vatican City, might seem the most obvious choice for where to go in Europe in April for Easter, there are many other destinations with major seasonal celebrations across the continent. Just remember that in some years, Easter occasionally falls in March, so it’s worth checking which dates certain celebrations, events, and festivals occur if you’re planning more than a year ahead.
Braga, Portugal
It’s fair to say that much of Portugal is overlooked by international visitors, with most people choosing a weekend in Porto or Lisbon for their Portuguese city break. However, having lived in this magnificent country for five years, I can tell you that’s a big mistake. One of Portugal’s best places to go in Europe in April is the northern city of Braga. Not only is this university home to one of Portugal’s most impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the staircase-heavy Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte in Braga, but it also hosts Portugal’s most significant Easter celebrations.
During Semana Santa (Holy Week), which starts on the 29th March 2026, Braga is awash with events and festivities, including the legendary Lent procession, pilgrimages, and concerts in religious spaces. Chanting echoes through the streets, decorations add to the medieval city’s charm, and the evening candle and torch-lit procession – led by the traditional donkey, no less – is particularly impressive. Beyond, there are enough museums and attractions to keep you busy for a weekend at least – the palatial Biscainhos Museum is a good place to start –, and it’s a great introduction to the culture of North Portugal beyond Porto and the Douro
April highlights: Alongside Semana Santa celebrations, April 25th is Portugal’s Freedom Day, when parades and events are held in honour of the military coup that restored democracy to the nation.
Make it happen: Porto is the nearest airport to Braga, which is served by short and long-haul flights, while Lisbon is also a decent pick as the train connection takes just a few hours. You could also sail into Northern Spain with Brittany Ferries to travel flight-free from the UK. If so, sail with your car and make it into a two-country road trip, stopping at San Sebastian and Oviedo en route.
Read more:
Portugal travel guide
Seville, Spain
When it comes to celebrating Easter in Europe, a weekend in Seville certainly strives for the top spot. This alone makes the capital of southern Spain’s Andalucia region one of the best places to visit in April in Europe. The Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations in Seville run for the entire Easter week, and the streets are taken over by processions raising statues of Virgins towards the heavens. Countless clocked figures will solemnly pass by the crowd-lined streets. I find the evening processions perhaps the most captivating, even if it is in a haunting way.
With all the different Brotherhoods hosting their own procession and an Andalusian spin due to the saetas – a sort of flamenco-style religious song hailing from the region – nowhere else in Spain can compare to Easter. Still, Valladolid further north, has a similarly revered event, if slightly more solemn. Beyond the April celebrations, Seville still serves up all of its famed attractions. Enjoy a flamenco show, visit the Alcázar of Seville – a patio-heavy fortress-turned-palace – and climb to the top of the towering cathedral for far-reaching cityscapes.
Make it happen: Seville’s airport doesn’t have the widest choice of flights, so if you’re struggling to find connections, you could also check Faro (Portugal) and then arrive by bus or Madrid (especially for inter-continental connections) and take the high-speed rail to the city. Semana Santa is one of Spain’s most significant events, so you’ll want to book your hotel and pre-book tickets to the city’s major attractions well in advance.
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Two days in Seville
Alghero, Sardinia
Sardinia is home to some of the most underrated cities in Europe, especially since Italy’s gorgeous Mediterranean Island is best known for its beaches and pricey resorts. But away from the expensive Costa Smeralda, you can still find plenty of more affordable getaways. As with the rest of Italy, la Pasqua, or Easter, is a big deal, making the country one of Europe’s best April destinations. In Sardinia, the seaside city of Alghero, which was historically Catalan, is the place to be. Blending Italian and Catalan celebrations, the week leading up to Easter features torch-lit parades, statue-carrying processions, and traditional folk costumes on display. Inland, mural-heavy Orgosolo also has some wholesome celebrations.
Easter aside, Sardinia is delightful in spring. Daytime temperatures in April can reach around 18°C (65°F) with plenty of sunny days. While it might not be the best season for beaches and all-day swimming sessions, the weather is perfect for exploring the backstreets of the major cities, such as cultural Sassari and capital Cagliari, or enjoying hinterland hiking trails and Nuragic archaeological sites.
April highlights: Aside from Easter, there are several other events in Sardinia, including the Nuoro Nougat Festival and Sardinia’s National Day on April 28th.
Make it happen: Alghero has an international airport, so you might not need to fly to Cagliari. When I visited, I took the ferry from Genoa to Porto Torres, but you can also take French ferries for an alternative, flight-free connection.
Discover more of the best places to visit in Europe by season and month:
Is April a good time to visit Europe?
April is a great time to visit Europe. The weather is warming, outside activities are returning, and prices are still fairly reasonable. However, try to avoid the Easter school holidays (dates vary) if you want to snag the best bargains.
Where in Europe is warm in April?
If you’re seeking the warmest place in Europe in April, you should head south. Some of Europe’s best places to visit in April are Cyprus, Malta, the Canary Islands and southern Spain and Portugal.
Which country is best to visit in Europe in April?
The best country to visit in April depends on what you’re seeking. If you want beaches, head to Cyprus, Malta or Spain’s islands. The best European cities to visit in April include Palma de Mallorca for a city-cum-island break, Seville and Braga for Easter celebrations, and Copenhagen for a pre-peak season museum city break.
