Best places to visit in Europe in April: Hidden gems by the coast and city breaks
If you’re dreaming about the best places to visit in Europe in April, you’re in for a treat because this list has a little bit of everything. April in Europe is honestly like a little slice of magic in April cause it’s warm, but not crowded. Everything is waking up after winter, and the whole vibe is just… fresh. The flowers are blooming, the crowds are still manageable (the summer rush hasn’t kicked in yet!), and there’s a quiet energy that makes exploring feel extra special.
Think stunning Mediterranean islands where you can dip your toes in crystal-clear water (and maybe sip a sneaky Aperol), fairytale countryside villages with fields of flowers as far as the eye can see, and ancient cities with less tourists so you can actually enjoy them without elbowing someone for a photo. Oh, and food. So much food. April means wild garlic in Scotland, fresh strawberries in Spain, and dreamy seafood in Greece.
From the olive groves of Italy to pastel streets in Dubrovnik, cosy Cotswold pubs with firelit corners, and the energy of Valencia during spring festivals – I’m covering a mix of postcard-perfect spots and some underrated gems you’ll want to pack your bags for.
Best places to visit in Europe in April
Here’s all the travel inspiration you need for your spring break in Europe! Think pleasant weather, sunny days, coastal road trips down the Amalfi Coast. There’s tonnes of outdoor activities in Northern Italy, the Greek Islands, all over Europe, city breaks in Warsaw, Prague or Budapest… we got it covered!
Andros island, Greece
Read more about Chora (the main town) with its beautiful whitewashed buildings, or Batsi, the great seaside town in Andros.
Temperature in April: 15°C–20°C (59°F–68°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:45 AM, sunset around 8:00 PM
Rainy Days: About 6 days of rain in April
Known for: Unspoiled beaches, lush hiking trails, best food in Greece, and charming Cycladic villages
Where to stay in Andros:
| Hotel Name | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Egli Boutique Hotel 🌊 | Budget |
| Micra Anglia Boutique Hotel spa hotel. 🌊 | Mid-range |
| Golden vista suites – infinity pools overlooking the sea 🌊 | Luxury |
Tours to book onto:
- Luxury day cruise with drinks – idyllic way to explore these waters
- River trekking – Andros is known for incredible hikes!
- Best of Andros full day tour – an easy way to see all the highlights!
- Historic Monasteries visit – see the monks and holy men up in the hills
Andros is number 1 on this list. I almost guarantee you haven’t heard of this beautiful Greek Island with Italian influences. Andros isn’t like the tourist-packed Greek islands you hear about – it’s a little quieter, a little greener, and absolutely dreamy in April. This is one of my favourite spots to just switch off and enjoy nature – the hiking trails are next level, taking you through lush valleys, past waterfalls, and up to breathtaking viewpoints. The beaches are so untouched it’s ridiculous, and you might even have them all to yourself. Don’t miss visiting Chora (the main town) with its beautiful whitewashed buildings, cute cafés, and museums and Batsi is a great seaside town.
Oh, and this island is for all the foodies – you need to try the local almond desserts (kaltsounia), try the local cheeses, the Greek salads… everything is fresh, I promise you! The perfect Europe spring break, full of sunny weather and delicious food.
It’s also worth checking out the Greek island of Antiparos and the beautiful villas there.
Dinant, Belgium
Temperature in April: 7°C–14°C (45°F–57°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:45 AM, sunset around 8:30 PM
Rainy Days: Around 10 days of rain in April
Known for: Saxophones, dramatic cliffs along the River Meuse, and its iconic cliffside citadel
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Hotel La Merveilleuse | Budget |
| Les Jardins de la Molignée 🌊 | Mid-range |
| La Belle Étable | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Guided tour of the Dinant from Brussels
- Love trail and escapade
- Day trip to the nearby Caves of Han
Dinant is small but mighty – it’s one of those places that feels like a storybook town come to life. It’s not far from Brussels – around 2 hours and well worth the trip! Perched between steep cliffs and the Meuse River, its views are out of this world. The Citadel (which you can reach by cable car or a lot of steps) gives you incredible panoramic views, and the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Dinant is a beauty. Oh, and fun fact: this is where the saxophone was invented, so you’ll find saxophones everywhere. Make sure to grab a beer at Leffe Abbey while you’re here – it’s kind of a local legend.
Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
Temperature in April: 4°C–12°C (39°F–54°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:30 AM, sunset around 8:15 PM
Rainy Days: About 9 days of rain in April
Known for: Fairy-tale vibes, preserved medieval architecture
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Hotel Goldener Hirsch | Budget |
| Hotel Altes Brauhaus | Mid-range |
| Hotel Eisenhut | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Rothenburg walking tour
- Rothenburg wine-tasting experience
- Rothenburg Tour from Munich
Rothenburg is like walking straight into a Brothers Grimm story but maybe more fairytale than scary story. The medieval walls, timbered houses, and cobblestone streets are almost too picturesque to be real. In April, the spring blooms make the town even prettier. Don’t miss walking the city walls or taking the Night Watchman tour – it’s such a fun way to learn about the history. Try a “schneeball” (a local pastry – some people love it, some people hate it), and spend some time just wandering through the quaint shops and hidden alleys.
Vienna, Austria
Temperature in April: 7°C–16°C (45°F–61°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:20 AM, sunset around 7:45 PM
Rainy Days: About 9 days of rain in April
Known for: Imperial palaces, classical music, world-famous coffee houses
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Meininger Downtown Sissi | Budget |
| Hotel Schani Wien 🌊 | Mid-range |
| Sans Souci Ritz-Carlton Vienna | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Schönbrunn Palace skip-the-line guided tour
- Vienna walking tour with coffee and cake tasting
- Alpine tour into the mountains
Vienna in April is pure class – the gardens start coming alive with blooms and there’s a vibe in the city that feels refreshingly elegant but not too crowded. The historic centre is full of jaw-dropping sights like the Austria state library (the most beautiful library in the world), the Hofburg Palace, and, of course, Schönbrunn Palace – trust me, it’s worth the hype. Vienna’s coffee culture is something you have to experience – grab a slice of Sachertorte (that famous chocolate cake) and sit in a traditional café for the full vibe. If you love music, this is the city of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, so book a classical concert and soak it all in. Oh, and the Naschmarkt is foodie heaven – so many stalls, so much deliciousness.
Burano & Venice, Italy
Read my full guide on Burano and the hidden gems in Venice.
Temperature in April: 10°C–17°C (50°F–63°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:30 AM, sunset around 8:00 PM
Rainy Days: About 8 days of rain in April
Known for: Venice – canals, gondolas, and Renaissance art; Burano – colourful houses and lace-making
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Combo Venezia | Budget |
| Casa Burano – Stay in one of the colourful homes! | Mid-range |
| Ca’Sagrado – stunning converted private noble house Hotel Dona Palace – stunning authentic Venetian quarters. | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
Venice is everything you imagine it to be and then some. The canals, gondolas, and pastel sunsets over the lagoon are pure magic. In April, the weather is perfect for wandering – not too hot and not too crowded. Stroll through Piazza San Marco, get lost in the maze of alleys (seriously, it’s the best way to explore), and take a gondola ride if you’re feeling fancy. For a quieter vibe, head to Burano – it’s only a 45-minute ferry ride, and the rainbow-coloured houses are straight-up Instagram goals. Burano is also known for its lace-making heritage, so check out some of the shops while you’re there. Oh, and don’t leave Venice without trying cicchetti (Venetian tapas) at a local bacaro – pair it with a glass of prosecco for the ultimate experience. 🥂
Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Temperature in April: 17°C–24°C (63°F–75°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 7:30 AM, sunset around 8:30 PM
Rainy Days: Around 3 days of rain in April (basically none!)
Known for: Year-round warm weather, epic volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Precise Resort Tenerife | Budget |
| Hotel Tigaiga 🌊 | Mid-range |
| The Ritz-Carlton, Abama 🌊 | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Teide National Park stargazing and volcano tour
- Whale and dolphin watching boat tour
- Day trip to La Gomera Island
Tenerife in April is a total dream if you’re craving sunshine and adventure without the peak-season crowds. The weather is warm enough to lounge on the beach (Playa de las Teresitas is my favourite for golden sands), but not so hot that hiking feels like a chore. Speaking of hikes, Mount Teide is unmissable – it’s Spain’s highest peak, and the volcanic landscapes are unreal. If you’re into stargazing, this is one of the best spots in the world for clear night skies. Don’t forget to explore Masca Village – it’s this ridiculously scenic spot tucked into the mountains. Tenerife is also the place for whale and dolphin spotting, so a boat tour is a must. Finish off your days with fresh seafood and a glass of local Canarian wine – pure bliss. 🍷
Florence, Italy
Read about my hidden gems in Florence and best sunset spots in Florence.
Temperature in April: 10°C–18°C (50°F–64°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:45 AM, sunset around 8:00 PM
Rainy Days: About 9 days of rain in April
Known for: Renaissance art, jaw-dropping architecture, incredible food
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Hotel Dali – from £70 | Budget |
| Velona’s Jungle – boutique hotel | Mid-range |
| Grand Minerva – Rooftop hotel with views of the Duomo | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- The secret wine windows of Florence
- Michelangelo’s David, Climb the Duomo & Cathedral tickets tour
- Pasta making & cooking class in Tuscan Villa trip to the Tuscan countryside
Florence in April? It’s literally the home of the Renaissance… but without sweating through your clothes like you would in the summer. Everything about this city is stunning – the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, the sunsets from Piazzale Michelangelo (take wine, trust me). And if you’re a museum lover, this is the place to get your art fix – the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries are must-visits. Between all the sightseeing, make sure enjoy Florence’s foodie scene… Think truffle pasta, creamy gelato, and glasses of Chianti. You’ll leave with your heart (and stomach) so full. Read about my favourite hidden gems in Florence.
The Cotswolds, England
Temperature in April: 7°C–13°C (45°F–55°F)
Daylight hours: 14+ hours | Sunrise around 6:15 AM, sunset around 8:15 PM
Rainy Days: About 10 days of rain in April
Known for: Storybook villages, rolling green hills, cosy pubs
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| The Lansdowne Guest House | Budget |
| The Slaughters Country Inn | Mid-range |
| The Manor House Hotel 🌊 | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- From London: Cotswold villages and Blenheim Palace
- Private cotswolds tour
- Cotswold gin distillery experience
The Cotswolds in April is just pure English countryside perfection. The daffodils and bluebells are out, and it feels like walking through a fairytale. Each village has its own vibe, but favourites like Bourton-on-the-Water and Castle Combe are ridiculously pretty. Go for long walks through the rolling hills, cosy up in a pub with a fireplace, and don’t miss afternoon tea at one of the many quaint tearooms (check out the Bridge Tearooms). Also, the pubs here do Sunday roasts that will change your life – roast potatoes are basically a religion.
Warsaw, Poland
Temperature in April: 5°C–13°C (41°F–55°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 5:45 AM, sunset around 7:45 PM
Rainy Days: About 8 days of rain in April
Known for: History, vibrant nightlife, and affordable travel
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Raddison Blu Sobieski – from £71 | Budget |
| Hotel Polonia Palace | Mid-range |
| Raffles Europejski Warsaw 🌊 | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Warsaw Old Town walking tour
- Warsaw World War II history tour
- Vistula River boat cruise
Warsaw is such a fun and underrated city (I am biased, I did live here for 5 years), and April is when everything starts coming back to life after winter. The Old Town is picture-perfect, with colourful buildings and cobblestone streets – you’d never guess it was rebuilt after WWII. You’ll love the museums, especially the Warsaw Uprising Museum, and the parks here are gorgeous in spring (Łazienki Park is a must). But Warsaw isn’t just about history – the foodie scene is epic (pierogi and schabowy all day long), and the nightlife is seriously buzzing.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Temperature in April: 11°C–18°C (52°F–64°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:10 AM, sunset around 7:30 PM
Rainy Days: About 9 days of rain in April
Known for: Medieval walls, Game of Thrones filming locations, stunning coastal views
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Hotel Lero 🌊 | Budget |
| The Pucic Palace | Mid-range |
| Hotel Excelsior 🌊 | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Game of Thrones walking tour
- Elafiti Islands boat tour
- Cable car ride and Mount Srđ sunset tour
Dubrovnik in April is like having a postcard come to life, but without the peak-season madness. The city is actually quite small, so I prefer going off season. You can stroll along the ancient city walls without bumping into crowds, soak up the Adriatic views, and explore the charming Old Town with its marble streets and orange roofed houses. If you’re into Game of Thrones, this is where King’s Landing was filmed – the tours are actually so fun even if you’re not a huge fan. And if you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a boat and explore the nearby islands. Absolute paradise.
Bruges, Belgium
Temperature in April: 6°C–13°C (43°F–55°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:45 AM, sunset around 8:30 PM
Rainy Days: About 10 days of rain in April
Known for: Medieval architecture, canals, chocolate shops
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Hotel Montovani | Budget |
| Hotel Ter Brughe | Mid-range |
| Hotel Dukes’ Palace 🌊 | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
Bruges is basically a medieval village. Cobblestone streets, canals, swans gliding across the water – it’s too perfect. In April, the flowers start blooming, so the parks and bridges look extra magical. Climb the Belfry for killer views over the city, wander through the Markt square, and just eat your weight in waffles and chocolate. The canal boat tours are a must too – they’re the best way to see the city’s charm from the water. Don’t forget to pop into one of the many beer halls for a local brew!
Paris, France
Temperature in April: 8°C–15°C (46°F–59°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 7:00 AM, sunset around 8:30 PM
Rainy Days: About 10 days of rain in April
Known for: The Eiffel Tower, world-class art, romantic vibes
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Generator Paris | Budget |
| Hotel Eiffel Seine | Mid-range |
| Le Bristol Paris 🌊 | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Seine River Dinner cruise (sunset cruises are dreamy, I did one on my hen party)
- Paris in a Day tour
- Day trip to Versailles
It’s cliché to say Paris is magical in spring, but it really is. April means cherry blossoms in full bloom (especially at Notre-Dame and around the Eiffel Tower), and the city feels so alive. Wander through the streets of Montmartre, picnic by the Seine, and stop at every patisserie you see – because croissants are a way of life here. If you’re into museums, you have to see the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, but honestly, just walking around with no plan is one of the best ways to experience Paris. People watching on the streets of Paris is one of my favourite pasttimes, it’s so beautiful!
Capri, Italy
Temperature in April: 13°C–18°C (55°F–64°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:30 AM, sunset around 7:45 PM
Rainy Days: About 7 days of rain in April
Known for: Crystal-clear water, luxury vibes, the Blue Grotto
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Aquamarine relaxing suites | Budget |
| Albergo la Prora | Mid-range |
| Casa Schiattarella Capri | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Boat tour to the Blue Grotto
- Private island boat trip around Capri
- Walking tour of Capri Town and Anacapri
Capri is basically the definition of Italian glamour. In April, it’s not as crowded as summer, so you can explore the island’s jaw-dropping beauty without the chaos. The Blue Grotto is a must-see, but the real magic of Capri is in wandering the little streets of Capri Town and Anacapri. Take the chairlift up Mount Solaro for panoramic views, sip a limoncello by the sea, and maybe treat yourself to a fancy meal with a view – because, why not?
Colmar & Strasbourg, France
Temperature in April: 7°C–16°C (45°F–61°F)
Daylight hours: 13+ hours | Sunrise around 6:40 AM, sunset around 8:15 PM
Rainy Days: About 9 days of rain in April
Known for: Fairy-tale architecture, canals, Alsatian wines, and half-timbered houses
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Hotel de l’Europe | Budget |
| Le Colombier Colmar | Mid-range |
| Hotel des Vosges Strasbourg 🌊 | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Alsace Wine Route – if you’re a wino, this is for you!
- Medieval Villages in Alsace – One of the most iconic experiences in Alsace.
- Alsace Walking tour– for an authentic French experience.
- Alsace Private tour – the most scenic views around Alsace, fully private and customisable!
Colmar and Strasbourg are like stepping into a Disney movie – my friend who works in theatre said it is like walking on a set. Honestly, they’re two of the prettiest places in France. Colmar is super dreamy with its colourful half timbered houses and flower-lined canals. Make sure to explore “La Petite Venise” (Little Venice), which is as cute as it sounds. Wine lovers will adore the local Alsace wines – Riesling and Gewürztraminer are the stars here.
Strasbourg is a bit bigger, with a mix of French and German influences that’s super unique. The Gothic Strasbourg Cathedral is a showstopper, and you can’t skip the canals in the “Petite France” neighbourhood – so picturesque! April is a perfect time to visit because the crowds haven’t taken over yet, and the weather is just starting to warm up. Pro tip: get a flammkuchen (kind of like an Alsatian pizza) and sit by the river – it’s such a vibe.
Iceland
Read my full guide to diamond beach here.
Temperature in April: 0°C–7°C (32°F–45°F)
Daylight hours: 14+ hours | Sunrise around 6:00 AM, sunset around 8:45 PM
Rainy Days: About 10 days of rain or snow in April (classic Iceland weather!)
Known for: Epic waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs, glaciers, and the Northern Lights (if you’re lucky!)
Where to stay:
| Hotel Name | Category |
|---|---|
| Reykjavik 22 Hill Hotel | Budget |
| Hotel Skuggi | Mid-range |
| Hotel Rangá 🌊 | Luxury |
3 Tours to book onto:
- Book a day trip or a private tour to Diamond Beach
- Northern Lights tour with professional photographer
- Foodie tour – this is SO GOOD, we tried so many incredible foods
Iceland in April is that perfect sweet spot – winter’s winding down, but the landscapes still have a sprinkling of snow that makes everything feel extra dramatic. Plus, the roads are opening up again, so you can hit the famous Ring Road without too much hassle. The Golden Circle is a must-do for first-timers, and honestly, Gullfoss Waterfall will blow your mind. You might still catch the Northern Lights early in the month if the skies are clear, but even if you don’t, the natural beauty everywhere else more than makes up for it. Soak in the Blue Lagoon or one of the smaller, less touristy hot springs (like the Secret Lagoon), and don’t leave without trying lamb stew or fresh fish soup – Iceland knows how to do comfort food. 🐟❄️
That’s it! I hope you found this useful and that you’ll get to go somewhere incredible for your Europe trip, whether it’s a city break or a seaside trip, there’s something for everyone! Have a look at all our Europe guides below for more info.
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