13 Best Places for a Spring Trip in Europe 2026: Where to Go in March, April, and May
Planning a spring trip to Europe in 2026? Discover the 13 best destinations for March, April and May – without crowds, with perfect weather and great prices
Spring is one of the best seasons to travel in Europe. Nature is waking up, there are fewer tourists than in summer, and accommodation and flight prices have not yet reached their peak. From the sunny coast of Portugal to the dramatic landscapes of the North Atlantic, spring 2026 opens up a wealth of ideas for the perfect trip.
Lonely Planet experts have announced the 13 most interesting places for a spring trip in Europe, divided by month so that you can choose the destination with the best weather, atmosphere and impressions, we tell you.
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Where to go in Europe in March?
Algarve, Portugal
- Best for: Yoga, surfing, and hiking
The Algarve is one of the first regions in Europe to truly feel spring. In March, temperatures often reach 18–20°C, rainfall decreases, and nature bursts into bloom with almond blossoms and wildflowers. It’s the perfect time for yoga retreats, surfing the Atlantic, and coastal walks without the summer crowds. Also worth visiting are the ancient cities of Faro and Lagos.
Lisbon is the perfect city to travel to, combining history, culture, and ocean charm. We’ve already told you when to go, where to stay, what to see, what to eat, and how to get around the city.
Mallorca, Spain
- Best for: Spring blossoms
March in Mallorca is “pink snow” of almond blossoms, mild weather and a quiet before the tourist season. A great time to hike in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, travel through the white villages of Deia and Sóller and explore Palma de Mallorca without the queues and heat.
Peloponnese, Greece
- Best for: Ancient monuments
March is ideal for exploring historical Greece without the heat. Olympia, Mycenae, Epidaurus and medieval Monemvasia are even more impressive when there are few tourists around. The Mani Mountains and the Viros Gorge are suitable for active travelers, and the local cuisine will delight you with fresh seafood and Kalamata olives.
The Greek island of Crete has long been recognized as one of the most beautiful places in the world. Find out more about things to do and see in Crete.
Istanbul, Turkey
- Best for: A spring city break
Istanbul is especially attractive in spring: comfortable temperatures, fewer tourists and good prices. Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and the Grand Bazaar can be visited without tiring queues, and gastronomic tours of the city will be a separate highlight of the trip.
Where to go in Europe in April?
Lake Maggiore, Italy
- Best for: An elegant holiday
April is the perfect month to travel to Lake Maggiore. The Baroque gardens of Isola Bella, the cities of Stresa and Verbania and the botanical garden of Villa Taranto are in full bloom at this time of year, but not yet crowded with tourists.
Azores, Portugal
- Best for: Nature and Wildlife
Spring in the Azores means azaleas, volcanic landscapes and whale watching season. April sees the archipelago remain quiet, perfect for hiking, cycling and boating without the crowds.
European countries are introducing new tourist taxes, entrance fees and fines from 2026. Find out where and what tourists will have to pay more for and how to prepare for your trip.
Lošinj, Croatia
- Best for: Active recovery
The island of Lošinj is known for its healing climate and pine forests. In April, you can stroll along the coast, ride a bike, watch dolphins and enjoy a spa holiday without the summer hustle and bustle.
Las Alpujarras, Spain
- Best for: Authentic villages
This mountainous region near the Sierra Nevada combines Moorish heritage, snow-white villages and orange groves. April is perfect for walks, cooking classes and Semana Santa celebrations.
Keukenhof, Netherlands
- Best for: Tulips
April is the peak of flowering at the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens. Millions of tulips, cycling routes and a spring atmosphere make this a must-see.
In 2026, travelers are choosing authentic cities, nature and sustainable tourism. Here are the European destinations to visit for a truly authentic travel experience.
Where to go in Europe in May?
Connemara, Ireland
- Best for: Scenic road trips
May brings mild weather, rolling green hills and dramatic coastlines to Connemara. Perfect for a road trip with stops at Kylemore Abbey, mountain lakes and traditional pubs.
Loire Valley, France
- Best for: Gastronomy
Spring markets with asparagus and strawberries, the châteaux of Chambord and Chenonceau, vineyards and cycle routes – May in the Loire Valley combines culture, food and nature without the summer crowds.
Faroe Islands
- Best for: Epic scenery
May is the month when the islands wake up: millions of seabirds arrive, hiking trails open up and the weather becomes milder. It’s the perfect time for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Best for: a varied holiday
From Mostar and Sarajevo to Kravica Waterfalls and rafting on the Una River – May in Bosnia and Herzegovina offers culture, nature and active holidays at affordable prices.
Spring 2026 is the perfect time to see Europe without the crowds and heat. Choose a destination according to your mood: sea, mountains, cities or wildlife – and get the most out of it before the high season begins.
Planning a spring trip to Europe in 2026?
With the travel guide from Visit World, you can easily prepare for a trip to any European country without the help of travel agents. The guide contains tourist visa requirements, visa-free travel rules, a list of documents and useful life hacks for travelers. All information is sent to your email in PDF format within minutes of registration.
Order a travel guide now and go on a worry-free trip!
Let's remind you! Tired of the winter cold and dreaming of a sunny trip in February? We have already told you where to go in Europe in February 2026 to be warm and inexpensive.
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