It’s time to hang up your winter coats and pack those scarves away for another year, spring is finally upon us! And what better way to celebrate than booking a city getaway where you can make the most of the fresh air, blossoming flowers and of course, a little bit of sunshine. With so many lush city breaks only a short flight away, here’s our top picks for a European getaway…
Amsterdam
Spring sees Amsterdam at its best! With lush greenery lining the infamous canals, a sea of colourful tulips in bloom and a buzzing atmosphere surrounding the city, there’s no better time to visit.
Grab a picnic basket brimming with all your favourite snacks and settle under the enchanting cherry blossom trees in Blossom Park for an afternoon of good vibes. Feel the wind rush through your hair with a bike ride through the city, taking in the picturesque scene of boutique-lined streets and instantly recognisable architecture. Or make the most of the fresh spring air and embark on a sightseeing expedition! From the traditional windmills giving you a glimpse into the past, to the nine spectacular outdoor sculptures of Flevoland, Amsterdam is a treasure trove of amazing sights to behold.
If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Amsterdam on the 27th April, get ready to partake in the biggest party the Netherlands are host to, King’s day celebrations! Loose yourself in the electrifying energy with up to a staggering 2-million attendees lining the streets in a blur of vibrant orange apparel. Let the infectious merriment of a spectacular boat party wash over you, or delight in the thrill of discovery as you peruse the open-air flea markets brimming with charming antiques, fascinating literature, and mouth-watering baked goods!
Palma De Mallorca
The Island of Mallorca welcomes April with open arms as it dusts off the cobwebs and open its doors again ready to greet guests back after the winter months. With temperatures hitting highs of around 19 C, you can finally grab your favourite summer outfit, pop on your sunnies and enjoy a bit of vitamin D.
You’ll find Palma Bay flooded with boats in anticipation of the Palma International Boat Show, the perfect event for anyone interested in the nautical world of sailing. Or if you’re looking to partake in the excitement of a thrilling competition, why not head out of the city for the day and sign up to the famous Mallorca 312 Cycling challenge alongside hundreds of other cyclists ready to battle it out in a tour around the island.
Meander around local markets where traditional cuisine made from fresh local produce is in no short supply, cast your eye upon the array of uniquely crafted arts and trinkets that will have you wishing you had more suitcase space or settle into a cosy street café with an aromatic coffee as you watch the world go by.
Copenhagen
Perfect for a friend’s holiday or family getaway alike, Copenhagen is the perfect spring city break location. Arriving just ahead of the busy summer crowds, you’ll find reasonably priced hotels and flights, who doesn’t love that?!
A city known for its extravagant art and history scene; Copenhagen is plentiful in the way of museums. The National Museum showcases pieces from Viking treasures to Renaissance art and everything in between. But worry not, you don’t have to be a history buff to enjoy all the museum has to offer. Discover ‘The Children’s Museum’, a thrilling space specifically crafted for your little explorers, where they can immerse themselves in the hands-on exhibits.
Tivoli Gardens is another great outing for all ages! Magical gardens are filled with aromatic hyacinth and thousands of bright daffodils, theme parks are home to rides straight out of a thrill-seekers dream, and live music fills the air creating a captivating atmosphere sure to bring you nothing but pure happiness. By nightfall, thousands of colourful lights create a fairytale like wonder and charm, with majestic peacocks running freely through the gardens, you’ll truly feel like you’ve entered a dream world.
Rome
Arising from the cold, dark winter days, Rome starts to flourish in spring. A symphony of colours emerges as the flowers and trees start to bloom. Although you’ll hopefully be lucky enough to be graced with blue skies and bright sunshine, there is still a chance of rainfall so make sure to pack your raincoat just in case.
A must for any trip to Rome is, of course, the Colosseum. Attracting over 4 million visitors annually, the epic amphitheatre was built nearly 2,000 years ago in 72 AD. Used in past lives for gladiator battles, the magnificent monument still stands strong today as the largest ever built by the Roman Empire. Explore the different levels of the Colosseum, from the first tier that was reserved for ancient royalty to the underground tunnels and trap doors used during games.
Foodies flock to Italy to try the world-famous cuisine that the country has to offer; and Rome certainly doesn’t fall short in this department. Gelato stalls pepper the quaint streets, serving up the ultimate refreshing treat. From classic flavours like chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry to the more unique specialities such as pistachio, fiordilatte and coffee, you’ll have a hard time choosing just one!