As the days grow longer and the chill of winter begins to loosen its grip, there’s an exciting sense of anticipation in the air. Spring isn’t just a season – it’s a promise of bright colors, fresh smells, and new things to come. March, April, and May provide you with ample inspiration to pack your bags and set out on a European adventure.

In many parts of the world, spring falls within the shoulder season. That means the dreary winter weather is long gone, while the bustling crowds of summer have yet to arrive. Not only that, but the weather is usually perfect. 

The sun is shining and the temperatures are warm enough for all kinds of outdoor adventures without being too hot to make you spend your entire vacation seeking out places with air conditioning. 

To help you create the ultimate springtime escape, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best places in Europe to visit in the spring. From snowy ski slopes and deserted beaches to exciting national parks and bustling cities, you’re sure to find your ideal spring escape here!

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The 10 Best Places in Europe to Visit in the Spring

1. Got Lost in the Rocky Landscape of Kjerag, Norway

If you’re eager to get outdoors after a long winter being locked inside, Stavanger in Norway is one of the coolest off-the-beaten-path places to visit in spring. This part of the country rarely gets any snow and is absolutely gorgeous in the spring, when the mild sunshine makes the blooming flowers look even more beautiful.

Stavanger is home to Kjerag, one of the top hiking destinations in Europe. Here, you can trek through the awe-inspiring beauty of rugged terrain, with the iconic Kjeragbolten (a suspended boulder wedged in a mountain crevice) offering a heart-pounding yet rewarding photo opportunity you won’t want to miss. 

As spring unfolds, Stavanger’s fjords and mountains come to life, showcasing a vibrant palette of greens and blues against the clear Nordic sky.

2. Enjoy the Last of the Ski Season in Chamonix, France

If you’re visiting Europe in the spring and you’re looking for travel ideas that defy the ordinary, make plans to visit the enchanting slopes of Chamonix, a sophisticated ski resort nestled in the heart of the French Alps. While most places have said their final goodbye to winter by March, Chamonix remains blanketed in sparkling white snow, creating the ideal environment for all kinds of winter sports.

Imagine gliding down powdery slopes surrounded by rugged peaks, the crisp alpine air making you feel alive. The Mont Blanc massif provides a stunning backdrop for your adventure, while the slightly warmer temperatures give you the best of both worlds – the excitement of winter sports and the promise of sun-kissed après-ski moments. 

3. Ride an Antique Roller Coaster in Copenhagen, Denmark

When it comes to high-speed thrills, Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen is one of the most family-friendly spring travel destinations in Europe. This 19th-century theme park opens around the third week of March. If you can time your trip just right, you could be the first person through the doors!

Picture yourself stepping into a fairy-tale realm as this iconic amusement park unveils its magic for the season. At this time of year, the park’s flower beds are in full bloom, and curious creatures like ducks and peacocks can be found wandering all over the place! 

From daredevil rides like the Demon roller coaster to the family-friendly Milky Way Express and the Little Dragon dedicated to children, there’s something for everyone here.

4. Museum Hop in the Golden Triangle in Madrid, Spain

Indulge your cultural side this spring with a trip to the heart of Spain, where Madrid unveils its vibrant tapestry of art, history, and architectural marvels. At the heart of this historic capital lies the Golden Triangle, a trifecta of world-renowned museums – the Prado Museum, the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, and the Reina Sofía Museum. 

Picture yourself strolling through the hallowed halls of the Prado, where masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco come to life. The Thyssen-Bornemisza beckons with its eclectic collection spanning centuries, and the Reina Sofía houses contemporary treasures, including Picasso’s iconic “Guernica.” 

As spring breathes life into Madrid, the city’s outdoor spaces, like Retiro Park, also become a cultural playground. Here, you can enjoy the park’s sweet-smelling flowers and cooling breeze after spending your morning indoors museum hopping.

5. Say “Prost!” at the Strong Beer Festival in Munich, Germany

You’ve probably heard of Munich’s Oktoberfest. But have you heard of the city’s Strong Beer Festival? This hugely popular beer festival is rarely known outside of Munich and takes place throughout several breweries in the city over three weeks each March.

While the event calendar changes every year, it’s always packed with amazing things to see and do. From beer tasting, traditional Bavarian food, and local band performances to daily beer specials, circus acts, and a high-octane atmosphere that will sweep you away with it, Munich’s Strong Beer Festival is definitely something you’ll want to experience if you’re going to be in Europe in the spring.

6. Enjoy the Acropolis Without the Crowds in Athens, Greece

One of the best places in Europe to visit in the spring, the ancient city of Athens awakens with a gentle warmth at this time of year, creating the perfect environment for exploring its fascinating attractions. 

Not only is the mild, sunny weather perfect for sightseeing at this time of year, but the intense crowds of summer have yet to descend on the city, so you can explore without being packed in with other visitors. 

Imagine wandering through the historic Acropolis, where the Parthenon stands majestically against a backdrop of azure skies. Without thousands of other visitors, you’ll be able to snap stunning pictures you’ll be proud to show off. Spring is also the perfect time to explore the gorgeous streets of Plaka, which are adorned with brightly colored, sweet-smelling flowers at this time of year. 

7. Treat Your Sweet Tooth in Obidos, Portugal

The charming medieval town of Obidos in Portugal hosts a drool-worthy foodie event each March – the International Chocolate Festival. This dreamy event takes place over three weekends of the month, with food markets laden with every single type of chocolate you could possibly imagine.

One of the many highlights of the festival is the remarkable sculptures made entirely out of chocolate. If you’d like to have a go yourself, you can sign up for one of the workshops and learn how to make your very own artisan edible delicacies. There are chocolate classes available for adults, children, and family groups, so everyone can join in. 

8. Explore Sun-Kissed Baroque Cities in Sicily, Italy

As spring in Europe unfolds, Sicily‘s ancient Baroque cities come to life in a symphony of historical grandeur. Modica, Ragusa, and Noto are three of the must-visit cities on this dreamy island. Here, you can wander along cobblestone streets, past architectural wonders, and close to streetside cafes, all telling a story of a time gone by.

One of the best places to visit in the spring, the weather in Sicily at this time of year offers a warm, sunny embrace, creating the perfect conditions for exploring. Visit Antica Dolceria Bonajuto, the oldest chocolate factory in Sicily in Modica (founded in 1880), stroll through the gardens of Giardini Iblei in Ragusa that will be blooming at this time of year, and fall in love with the ancient artwork at the Cathedral of St. Nicolò in Noto. 

9. Visit the Keukenhof Gardens in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Famous for its tulip season, Amsterdam bursts into bloom at this time of year, transforming into a floral wonderland that captivates the senses. One of the best spring destinations in Europe to admire the season’s beautiful flowers is the colorful Keukenhof Gardens. Here, millions of tulips paint the landscape in a breathtaking display of rainbow hues. 

Known as the Garden of Europe, Keukenhof Gardens invites you to stroll through meticulously designed gardens, breathe in the sweet fragrance of blossoms, and capture Instagram-worthy moments amid the iconic windmills. 

Beyond Keukenhof, Amsterdam itself awakens with a lively spirit in the spring. Enjoy a scenic cruise along picturesque canals, get lost in historic neighborhoods adorned with tulip-filled gardens, and soak up the atmosphere at charming cafes.

10. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin, Ireland

If you’re in the mood to party, Dublin is one of the very best places in Europe to visit in the spring. Around March 17, the historic city transforms itself into a sea of green for the world-famous St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Picture yourself drinking pints of Guinness, dancing to traditional Irish music, and immersing yourself in a jubilant atmosphere as the entire city embraces the holiday. Get involved in Dublin’s age-old traditions, from the incredible St. Patrick’s Day parade that includes more than 500,000 people to the intimate gigs, theatrical plays, and photography exhibitions that are held throughout the city. 

One of the best things about celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin is that the festivities usually last for a whopping five days!

There you have it! The 10 best places in Europe to visit in the spring. What are your favorite spring destinations in Europe?

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