While Paris and Rome tend to steal the spotlight for travelers mapping out their European adventures, spring brings out the best in countless destinations across the continent – from lesser-known medieval towns to quiet coastal villages. As winter’s chill fades and before summer crowds arrive, these places come alive with blooming gardens, outdoor cafes, and local festivals.
From charming Portuguese fishing towns to hidden gems in the Austrian Alps, here are 25 European destinations that shine brightest during spring, offering both popular highlights and quiet corners where you can experience authentic local life at a comfortable pace.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Spring travelers flock to Amsterdam for its famous tulip season, when millions of colorful blooms carpet the countryside and fill the city’s parks. While the Dutch capital is known for its picturesque canals and historic architecture, it’s also a city that embraces outdoor living as soon as the weather warms. The Vondelpark comes alive with locals enjoying picnics and street performers, while the city’s café terraces fill with people soaking up the sunshine. In April, Amsterdam hosts its biggest celebration of the year – King’s Day – where the entire city turns into one massive street party, complete with outdoor markets, music, and festivities on both land and water. Even outside of special events, you’ll find plenty to do, from cycling along the quiet canal paths to exploring the newly renovated Museum Quarter.
Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands
When it comes to spring in Europe, nothing says “wow” quite like Keukenhof Gardens in the Netherlands. This 79-acre wonderland is known as the Garden of Europe, where millions of tulips, daffodils, and other spring flowers paint the landscape in a rainbow of colors. The Dutch have perfected the art of bulb-growing over centuries, and it shows – perfectly arranged flower beds stretch as far as the eye can see, winding paths lead through themed gardens, and traditional windmills dot the horizon. It’s only open for eight weeks each spring, but that’s exactly what makes it special. This isn’t your everyday garden visit – it’s a celebration of Dutch flower power that draws people from every corner of the globe.
Paris, France
Spring in Paris isn’t just about watching the Eiffel Tower peek through cherry blossoms – it’s when the city truly comes alive. Like many European capitals, Paris has its museums, cafes, and historical sites. But unlike the others, it moves at its own leisurely pace, where afternoons slip away at sidewalk bistros and mornings start with still-warm croissants. Just watch locals picnicking along the Seine or browsing open-air book stalls, and you’ll understand what makes Paris special. Because of its role as a cultural hub over centuries, artists and writers from around the world have left their mark here, and you’ll find their influence in everything from the architecture of Montmartre to the literary cafes of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Provence, France
Experience springtime magic in Provence when purple lavender fields stretch as far as the eye can see. You can wander through charming stone villages like Gordes and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, where local markets overflow with fresh herbs, olives, and handmade soaps. Take a bike ride along quiet country roads lined with blooming cherry trees, or stop at family-owned wineries in the Côtes du Rhône region to sample crisp rosé wines. For a taste of local culture, join cooking classes where you’ll learn to make classics like bouillabaisse and ratatouille using ingredients from morning markets.
Lake Como, Italy
There’s something magical about Lake Como that has drawn visitors to its shores for centuries. This Y-shaped lake, nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, is where old-world charm meets pure Italian elegance. I’ve spent countless afternoons watching boats glide across the crystal-clear water, passing by pastel-colored villas and perfectly manicured gardens. The small towns dotting the shoreline – like Bellagio, Varenna, and Como – each offer their own unique take on laid-back lake life, with narrow cobblestone streets leading to hidden restaurants and quiet piazzas. While celebrities and the wealthy have long claimed this spot as their playground, you don’t need a movie star’s budget to enjoy the simple pleasures of a lakeside aperitivo or a ferry ride across the sparkling waters.
Cinque Terre, Italy
Wander through the five colorful seaside villages of Cinque Terre, where pastel houses cling to the rugged Italian coastline. You can hike the well-worn trails connecting these car-free towns, stopping to sample local wine and fresh seafood along the way. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean or join the locals for an afternoon gelato in Vernazza’s buzzing piazza. In spring, the hiking paths come alive with wildflowers, and the weather is perfect for exploring the terraced vineyards that stretch up the hillsides.
Santorini, Greece
When spring arrives in Santorini, the island sheds its quiet winter mood and comes alive with energy. White-washed buildings pop against the deep blue Aegean Sea, while purple bougainvillea flowers cascade down the walls. The weather hits that sweet spot – warm enough for swimming but cool enough for hiking the caldera trail from Fira to Oia. You’ll find fewer tourists than in peak summer, which means more chances to chat with locals at family-run tavernas and better deals on those famous cave hotels with infinity pools. Plus, spring brings perfect conditions for sipping local wine at sunset while perched on the edge of the volcanic cliffs.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Take a bike ride through Copenhagen’s colorful streets in spring when the cherry blossoms paint the city pink. The Danish capital comes alive as locals fill outdoor cafes and the famous Tivoli Gardens reopens for the season, bringing music and laughter to the heart of the city. Grab a coffee and traditional pastry at one of the cozy bakeries in Nyhavn, where the historic harbor front buildings create perfect photo opportunities. For a true Copenhagen experience, join the locals at the Islands Brygge harbor bath – a public swimming area where brave souls take their first dips of the season as temperatures start to warm up.
Hallstatt, Austria
Have you ever seen a village that looks like it was plucked straight from a fairy tale? That’s exactly what you’ll find in Hallstatt, a small lakeside town nestled in the Austrian Alps. This peaceful mountain hideaway, just a few hours from Salzburg, sits perfectly reflected in the glass-like waters of Lake Hallstatt, with traditional Alpine houses climbing up the mountainside. Between March and May, the snow begins to melt, revealing meadows dotted with spring flowers, while the surrounding peaks still wear their white caps. You can wander through the 16th-century market square, take a boat ride across the lake, or visit the ancient salt mines that made this UNESCO World Heritage site famous in the first place.
Bruges, Belgium
Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is one of those places that feels like stepping into a real-life fairy tale. The medieval city center, with its cobblestone streets and countless canals, hasn’t changed much since the 15th century – and that’s exactly what makes it special. Spring brings mild weather and smaller crowds, perfect for wandering past the old merchant houses and watching swans glide under stone bridges. While most visitors come for a day trip, I’d recommend staying at least two nights to really soak in the atmosphere. The morning mist rising off the canals, the clip-clop of horse-drawn carriages on empty streets, and the smell of fresh waffles wafting from local shops – these are the little moments that make Bruges unforgettable. It’s not just about ticking off the main sights; it’s about getting lost in the maze of narrow lanes and discovering hidden courtyards that most tourists never see.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Spring is the perfect time to discover Dubrovnik’s Old Town before the summer crowds arrive. Perched on Croatia’s southern coast along the Adriatic Sea, this medieval walled city charms visitors with its limestone streets, red-tiled roofs, and ancient fortifications. Walking the city walls gives you amazing views of both the sea and the town’s historic buildings, while the narrow alleyways below lead to hidden restaurants and small shops selling local crafts.
Madeira, Portugal
Experience spring in full bloom on Portugal’s “Garden Island,” where temperatures stay mild year-round. Known for its flower-filled landscapes, Madeira comes alive in spring with countless hiking trails along ancient water channels called levadas. Take a cable car ride from Funchal to Monte for views over the city and ocean, then hop on a traditional wicker toboggan for an exciting slide back down. For a unique afternoon, visit one of the island’s many wine lodges to sample the famous Madeira wine, or stroll through the Mercado dos Lavradores to discover local fruits and flowers you won’t find anywhere else in Europe.
Seville, Spain
In southern Spain, Seville comes alive during spring when orange blossoms perfume the air and temperatures hover at just the right level. While many Spanish cities boast impressive architecture and tapas culture, Seville stands apart with its mix of Moorish palaces and flamenco traditions. Just wander through the narrow lanes of Santa Cruz quarter, where locals chat from their balconies, and you’ll feel the city’s warm personality. Thanks to its history as a major port during Spain’s golden age, Seville acquired a fascinating blend of cultural influences, and you’ll find evidence of this in its Real Alcázar palace, which combines Islamic designs with Christian elements. The city moves at its own pace, with long lunches stretching into early evening tapas, and the sound of flamenco guitar drifting through cobblestone streets.
Tuscany, Italy
Spring brings Tuscany’s rolling hills to life with blooming wildflowers and perfect weather for exploring. You can spend your days wandering through charming medieval towns like San Gimignano and Siena, where cobblestone streets lead to hidden piazzas and local cafes. Take a wine tour through the Chianti region, where you’ll find family-run vineyards offering tastings of their latest vintages alongside plates of local cheese and cured meats. For a cultural experience, visit Florence’s Uffizi Gallery to see Renaissance masterpieces, then climb to the top of the Duomo for views over the red-tiled roofs of the city.
Swiss Alps, Switzerland
The Swiss Alps draw visitors year-round, but spring offers a special magic as winter’s grip loosens and nature reawakens. While many come for the well-known ski resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz, these mountains provide much more than snowy slopes. The region features countless hiking trails that wind past meadows dotted with early-blooming wildflowers and crystal-clear alpine lakes. In spring, you can experience the best of both seasons – ski on the higher peaks in the morning, then hike through green valleys in the afternoon. Local festivals celebrate the seasonal transition, with traditional Swiss music and food taking center stage in mountain villages throughout the region.
Ljubljana, Slovenia
Slovenia’s capital city Ljubljana has become a favorite among eco-conscious travelers, thanks to its commitment to sustainability and car-free city center. The charming medieval streets wind along the Ljubljanica River, where locals and visitors gather at riverside cafes and markets to enjoy the spring sunshine. In April and May, the city comes alive with outdoor festivals and events, including the popular Open Kitchen food market where you can sample traditional Slovenian dishes. The Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill above the city, provides pleasant walking trails through blooming spring gardens, while the nearby Tivoli Park offers perfect spots for picnics among flowering trees and art installations.
Porto, Portugal
Ever wandered through streets lined with blue and white tiles while sipping a glass of port wine? That’s daily life in Porto, where medieval meets modern along the banks of the Douro River. Portugal’s second-largest city charms visitors with its maze of narrow cobblestone streets and colorful houses stacked like building blocks on steep hills. From March to May, purple jacaranda trees bloom across the city, adding splashes of color to Instagram-worthy spots like the São Bento Railway Station and Livraria Lello, the ornate bookshop that inspired J.K. Rowling. Don’t miss a chance to hop between port wine cellars in Vila Nova de Gaia, where you can learn about the city’s famous export while watching traditional rabelo boats bob on the river below.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh draws visitors year-round for its imposing castle perched high above the city, but Scotland’s capital truly comes alive in spring. The city’s mix of medieval Old Town and elegant Georgian New Town offers plenty to explore as temperatures warm and flowers begin dotting the hills. In spring, the city hosts the Edinburgh Science Festival and Beltane Fire Festival, filling the streets with performances and celebrations. Even without the festivals, you can spend your days wandering through the cobbled Royal Mile, hiking up Arthur’s Seat for city views, or ducking into cozy pubs to escape the occasional rain shower that gives the city its lush green spaces.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Tucked away in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled looks like it jumped straight out of a fairy tale. A medieval castle perches on a cliff overlooking the clear blue waters, while a tiny island with a picturesque church sits in the middle of the lake, accessible only by traditional wooden boats called pletnas. In spring, the surrounding mountains still wear their snowy caps, but the valley comes alive with blooming wildflowers and cherry blossoms. It’s the perfect time to walk or bike around the lake’s 3.7-mile shore path, stopping at local cafes to try Slovenia’s famous cream cake, or rowing out to ring the church bell – legend says it makes wishes come true. The crowds are thinner than in summer, and the mild weather makes it ideal for hiking in the nearby valleys or simply sitting by the lake, watching the light change on the water.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast holds a special place among Italy’s many treasures, and it’s easy to see why. This 34-mile stretch of coastline winds along the Mediterranean, where pastel-colored villages seem to defy gravity as they cling to steep cliffs above the sea. Spring brings perfect temperatures for exploring the lemon grove-lined paths connecting towns like Positano and Ravello, or hopping between beaches that dot the shoreline. While summer draws massive crowds, visiting in spring lets you experience the authentic charm of local life – from fresh seafood restaurants tucked away in quiet corners to peaceful morning walks through gardens just coming into bloom.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Step back in time when you visit Mostar, home to the famous Old Bridge that gracefully arches over the Nerina River. Local divers keep an age-old tradition alive by plunging from the bridge into the cool waters below, while visitors can explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town. For the best views of this historic landmark, head to Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque’s minaret, where you can see the entire city spread out before you. The spring weather makes it perfect for wandering through the bustling bazaar, where you’ll find traditional crafts and local treats like cevapi and burek.
Normandy, France
I always tell history buffs that spring is the perfect time to visit Normandy. Along the dramatic coastline where D-Day unfolded, you can walk the same beaches where Allied forces landed in 1944, while inland, the apple orchards burst into pink and white blossoms. The region offers a mix of compelling WWII sites like the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach, charming towns such as Honfleur with its old harbor, and the awe-inspiring Mont Saint-Michel rising from the bay.
Cotswolds, England
Spring is the perfect time to visit the Cotswolds, where rolling hills and honey-colored stone villages look like they’re straight out of a fairytale. This peaceful region in the English countryside is dotted with charming cottages, medieval churches, and winding lanes bordered by drystone walls. Towns like Castle Combe, Bibury, and Bourton-on-the-Water invite visitors to stroll along quiet streets, pop into traditional pubs, and explore gardens bursting with spring blooms.
Bergen, Norway
Bergen won my heart during my first visit in the spring of 2019. Nestled between seven mountains and the Sognefjord, this charming Norwegian city offers a perfect blend of nature and culture. The historic Bryggen wharf, with its colorful wooden buildings, tells stories of Bergen’s medieval trading past, while the busy fish market brings the city’s maritime heritage to life. In spring, the surrounding mountains turn green, dotted with purple and yellow wildflowers, and the crisp air makes it ideal for hiking. The Fløibanen funicular carries visitors up Mount Fløyen, where the view of the harbor and city below makes you feel like you’re looking at a postcard come to life.
Salzburg, Austria
Ever wondered where “The Sound of Music” comes from? Welcome to Salzburg, Mozart’s hometown and a place where music fills the air at every corner. This Austrian gem, nestled between rolling hills and the Eastern Alps, comes alive in spring when the Mirabell Gardens burst with colorful tulips and daffodils. Take a stroll through the old town’s narrow streets, where centuries-old buildings tell stories of princes and bishops, and the smell of fresh pretzels and apple strudel wafts from local bakeries. You can explore the mighty Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above the city, catch a classical concert in one of the baroque churches, or venture into the nearby Alps for a day of hiking. The best part? Spring brings mild weather and fewer tourists, making it perfect for wandering through the picture-perfect streets that inspired Julie Andrews to sing about her favorite things.