Best European Destinations to Visit in Spring

Craving a cheeky getaway this spring? While Al Sarayat brings wind and rain to Qatar, Europe enjoys mild weather this time of year. Moreover, shoulder season is perfect for budget-conscious globetrotters seeking to avoid the maddening mid-summer crowds. We’re covering the best European destinations to visit in spring. As for other parts of the world, read our general guide to places to visit from Qatar!

Move over, Ashikaga. Japan isn’t the only post-winter hotspot for watching vibrant blossoms bloom. Located in Lisse, about 40 minutes from Amsterdam, this immaculately manicured parkland showcases Europe’s most impressive floral ensemble. Some 7 million traditional Dutch flowers–mostly tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths–transform the 32-hectare park into a technicolored wonderland from mid-March until mid-May. 

The rest of Holland is idyllic in spring for its mild climate and flat, verdant landscapes. Now is also the perfect time to explore the buzzy, canal-strewn capital–Amsterdam gets swamped in summer. Planning an April trip? Drape yourself in orange and join a raucous King’s Day boat party, or check out the colorful Amsterdam Tulip Festival. 

Home to beautiful beaches, top-tier gastronomy, and world-famous architectural marvels, Barcelona is among the hottest destinations in Europe. But the heat is both figurative and literal, with scorching temperatures drenching sightseers in sweat during the summer. 

Although you mightn’t fancy swimming, spring is perfect for admiring the works of legendary architect Antoni Gaudí. Moreover, you won’t have to tussle for elbow room at highlights like La Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and Casa Batlló. After the sightseeing is done, catch a football match, snack on some tapas, or peruse a fine art museum to cap off the quintessential Barca holiday. 

Tucked beneath the Dinaric Alps, this iconic, fjord-like bay personifies the majestic Adriatic coastline. Aside from being a world-famous sailing destination, the Bay of Kotor is brilliant for exploring on foot. Hardy hikers can scale dramatic limestone massifs for an elevated view of the quaint seaside villages below. 

Standout local trails include the Ladder of Kotor, the Kotor Fortress Hike, Pestingrad Peak, and Mount Vrmac. Fancy more outdoor adventures? Potter around pristine Montenagrin landscapes in Lovcen National Park or the Budva Riviera.

Ski bums needn’t hang up their helmets just yet — it’s not for winter holidays! Europe has a slew of high-altitude glacier resorts offering ample action well into spring. The highest place to ski in Europe is Val Thorens, an iconic Three Valleys resort 2,300 m above sea level. Consistently favorable conditions mean the ski season usually runs until early May. 

Boasting 183 lifts and over 600 km of well-maintained trails, the Three Valleys megaresort is the largest skifield on Earth. Whether you’re a novice punter or a seasoned ski bunny, you’ll find plenty of mid-spring downhill thrills at this iconic alpine haunt. 

Most of Europe is still pretty nippy in the spring. But venture south, and you’ll find warm, sunny weather perfect for a pre-summer beach holiday. One classic spring destination is Ayia Napa, a gorgeous Mediterranean resort town straddling the Levantine Sea. Sun-seeking holidaymakers from Europe and beyond adore its pristine golden sands, clear turquoise waters, and idyllic swaying palms. Not only does spring bring balmy weather, but it’s also a great time to beat the notorious peak-season crowds. 

Aside from working on your tan, Ayia Napa boasts elegant Venetian-era architecture, dramatic coastal cliffs, and a booming late-night party scene. Done Cyprus before? Other classic spring beach destinations include the Canary Islands, the Algarve, the Amalfi Coast, the French Riviera, and Corfu.

From world-famous sites like the Acropolis to the city’s artifact-packed museums, Athens is a living treasure trove of Ancient Greek history. While the Greek capital gets notoriously hot and crowded in the summer, it’s lovely during the mild shoulder season months. 

Once you’re done admiring Athens’ crumbling old-world marvels, get stuck into the city’s buzzing culinary scene. Humble family-run tavernas serve hearty Mediterranean dishes, while upmarket institutions delight diners with delectable Michelin Star-rated cuisine. In May, the month-long Athens City Festival spans 350 micro-events. 

The charming Medieval town of Krakow springs to life each spring with the bustling Easter Fair. Held in the Main Square, this vibrant Old Town shindig showcases traditional Czech performances, tasty home-made chocolates, plus artisanal handicrafts like linen tablecloths, hand-painted pottery, and gingerbread hearts. Come with an empty stomach to devour hearty local delicacies such as pierogi (Polish dumplings) and biała kiełbasa (white sausage). 

Eager to make the most of the pleasant spring weather? Rent a bike to cycle along the tranquil Vistula River or go hiking in the nearby Tatra Mountains. 

Slovenia’s quaint, attractive capital costs less than other European cities, and the weather here is lovely in spring. Spend a lazy day wandering around the cobblestoned Old Town, admiring highlights like Tivoli Park and Dragon Bridge. Next, hop in the scenic glass-walled funicular to Ljubljana Castle for a sweeping overview of the terracotta roof-dotted city. 

A quick one-hour bus trip away, Lake Bled is a social media-famous destination for its glistening waters, snow-clad mountains, and Instagrammable island chapel. Other budget European favorites in spring include Bratislava, Prague, and Sofia. 

Before booking the tickets and hotel rooms, one must check whether one must obtain a visa to the European Union and how to get this Schengen visa in Qatar. And, of course, don’t forget to learn how to get the necessary travel insurance for a Schengen visa.