5 of the Best Places to Visit in Europe in the Spring

When spring comes around, the days get longer, and the chill of winter starts to melt away – it’s only natural for your thoughts to turn to travel. As the weather gets warmer, it’s the perfect time to start planning your next European getaway. So, where are the best cities in Europe to travel during springtime? Here are five great suggestions:

Rome

Although spring in Rome can be slightly rainy, you’ll beat the oppressive heat and massive crowds of the summer months and have a more enjoyable visit. Around mid-April the wisteria will begin to bloom on overhead vines all throughout the city, adding a tinge of purple to the historic streets. Plus, spring is a great time to be a foodie in Italy as the seasonal cuisine comes alive with fresh fruits, traditional Easter baking and more.

Athens

Spring is a wonderful time of year to visit Greece – the mild temperatures make it ideal for sightseeing and the sun will be less intense than in the sweltering summer months. It’s a great time of year to take a hike to the top of Lycabettus Hill and admire the sunset over the city. (Or, if you don’t feel up to the climb you can always take the funicular.)

Berlin

As soon as the first rays of spring sunshine come out, the locals in Berlin will fill the local parks – relaxing in the gardens and outdoor cafes. Plus, this is when the cherry blossoms will bloom along the perimeter of where the Berlin Wall used to be. During your visit to Germany, be sure to check out the many excellent outdoor street markets where you can find produce, artisanal snacks, yummy foods, jewellery, clothing and much more.

Prague

Another wonderful place to visit in spring is the historic cobblestone streets of Prague. The city will come alive with Easter celebrations and bright flower blooms will be planted all over the city. The weather will be pleasant (perhaps a bit rainy) and it will not be as busy as the summer months. Plus, you can attend the Prague Spring Festival from mid-May to the beginning of June at the Municipal House, a classical music festival that is one of the most important cultural events of the year.

Vienna

Last but not least, Vienna is lovely in the springtime. The cherry blossoms will be blooming in Stadtpark and the city’s graffiti artists will come out to play, decorating the city with vibrant murals. Many of the restaurants and cafes in Austria will start to open their outdoor beer gardens, where you can curl up with a blanket and a beer and watch the world go by.

Where in Europe will you head this spring?