Your guide to Europe in April

Spring has sprung! The flowers are blooming, the sun is shining brighter and setting later, and the air is crisp and clean. This is April in Europe, one of the most magical times of year to travel to this beautiful continent. After the frosty winter starts to melt away, April breathes new life into Europe just before the heat and crowds of summer arrive. 

Expat Explore loves shoulder season travel, and we’re about to give you all the reasons why you should, too! From better travel deals to stunning scenery, festivities and lively cities, here’s why Europe in April is a dream come true. 

Why travel Europe in April?

Many travellers see summer as the best time to visit Europe. However, they don’t always anticipate the sheer volume of crowds, sky-high prices or stifling heat that much of Europe experiences during this time. Similarly, winter can be idyllic with its festive flair, snowy streets and cosy Christmas markets. However, it can also be icy cold with little sunshine and shorter opening hours at top attractions. 

April is basically the Baby Bear of seasons. It’s not too hot, not too cold, it’s just right! The days are warmer and longer, locals come out of hibernation, and spring arrives with green grass, colourful flowers and outdoor markets. You’ll enjoy fewer crowds in popular destinations and better value on flights, tours, accommodation and activities! Easter often falls around April too and many destinations celebrate with local treats (chocolate, anyone?) and festivities.

Top places to visit in Europe in April

London, United Kingdom

As one of the world’s most iconic cultural hubs, London welcomes over 20 million visitors each year! With so much to see and do, the city’s streets and landmarks are always buzzing with life. April, however, is a particularly magical time to visit. This month brings the city back to life after winter. The parks are green, cherry blossoms bloom in places like Greenwich Park and Notting Hill, and the days grow longer. It’s the perfect time for sightseeing without the heavy summer crowds. Expect mild weather, spring markets, and events like the London Marathon, adding vibrant energy to the city.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Wondering why you should visit Amsterdam in April? Two words: Tulip Season! The Netherlands is famous for its colourful flower fields, especially at Keukenhof Gardens, located just outside the city. Amsterdam itself buzzes with an infectious energy. Canals sparkle in the spring light, and King’s Day (April 27) turns Amsterdam into a massive orange-clad street party. It’s one of the happiest, most vibrant times to visit this captivating city. 

Related: These are Europe’s top spring destinations!

Paris, France

Springtime in Paris is pure romance. April means pleasant temperatures for exploring the charming streets of Montmartre or picnicking under blossoming trees in the Jardin du Luxembourg. Cafés spill out onto the pavements, and popular sites like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are easier to explore before peak tourist season. It’s also a great time for Easter treats! Be sure to indulge in pastel macarons, freshly-baked brioche and all sorts of irresistible chocolate.

Rome, Italy

April is one of the best months to experience the Eternal City. The pleasantly warm weather makes it ideal for walking between ancient ruins and piazzas as well as sampling local gelato. The Vatican hosts beautiful Easter celebrations, with Easter Mass being one of the world’s most important religious celebrations. Fewer crowds outside of Easter weekend means that you can enjoy the Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Trevi Fountain, and Trastevere at a more relaxed pace.

Related: Along with St. Stephen’s Basilica, these are Europe’s most beautiful churches.

Swiss Alps, Switzerland

In April, the Swiss Alps beautifully bridge two seasons. High-altitude resorts like Zermatt and St. Moritz still sparkle with snow, while the valleys below burst into life with green pastures and wildflowers. It’s the ideal time for travellers who want a mix of crisp mountain scenery and mild spring hiking weather. Scenic rail journeys, such as the trip to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest train station, are especially breathtaking. Watch as the landscapes transform from lush valleys and storybook towns to glistening, snowy peaks.

Tuscany, Italy

We’re heading back to Italy for this next entry because April in Tuscany is simply spectacular. The famous rolling hills of the countryside turn bright green, and vineyards start to come alive. Temperatures are comfortable for exploring cities like Florence, Pisa, or Siena without the summer crowds. For foodies, the start of wine and food festivals celebrating olive oil, truffles, and regional produce is sure to be a feast for the senses.

Related: Tuscany makes our list as one of the world’s best wine regions!

Munich, Germany

As spring arrives, Munich’s famous beer gardens reopen, and the city bursts into life with outdoor festivals and lively markets. Wander through the impressive English Garden or the charming Hofgarten to soak up the fresh air and April flowers. It’s the perfect time to visit the nearby Neuschwanstein Castle or take a day trip through Bavaria’s awe-inspiring landscapes before the tourist season begins. Expect crisp mornings, sunny afternoons, and a lively, cheerful vibe.

Related: Top tips for how to spend 24 hours in Munich.

Bruges, Belgium

What better time to visit the land famous for chocolate than around Easter? April is perfect for enjoying Bruges before the summer crowds arrive. Stroll along medieval streets, relax at café terraces, take a leisurely canal cruise as the spring sunshine dances on the water, and, of course, indulge in rich Belgian chocolate. Don’t forget to sample some waffles, frites and beer while you’re at it! With fewer tourists and the city in full bloom, it’s a dreamy, peaceful experience.

Related: Discover the best things to do around Belgium!

Want to visit ALL of these places in April?

Join our Classic Europe tour! Starting and ending in London, this 14-day journey ticks off every single one of these top spring destinations as well as gorgeous locations like Burgundy, Germany’s Rhine Valley, Venice and Innsbruck in Austria. With departure dates in late March and early April, you’ll get to experience this picturesque season in some of Europe’s most enchanting cities. 

To take your April adventure to the next level, add on some unforgettable optional excursions. Spend an evening in Montmartre, journey to the top of Jungfraujoch, get a taste of delectable Tuscan dishes and cruise the Venice canals in a water taxi at twilight! You’ll tick countless items off your bucket list, uncover hidden gems and experience local cultures.

Related: Don’t miss these on-tour optional excursions!

What to pack for Europe in April

In most of Europe, you’ll experience a mix of mild weather and occasional rainy days as spring begins. In mountainous areas like the Swiss Alps, pack for the possibility of snow, especially if you plan to ascend a peak or two. Southern regions like Italy may have warmer temperatures, so lighter clothes might be necessary. You can expect highs of around 19℃ in the daytime and lows of around 4℃ in the evening. Therefore, a mix of warmer layers and lighter fabrics will serve you well.

While April is not the rainy season, an umbrella or rain jacket might come in handy in cities like Amsterdam and London, which are famously wet. A warmer jacket or jumper is necessary for cooler days and chilly evenings, while t-shirts and jeans are a go-to staple.

Sunscreen and a reusable water bottle are always a must, even on overcast days. Comfortable shoes are also an essential to help you walk with ease between bucket-list sights.

Related: For more info on what to pack, our Shoulder Season Packing Guide has you covered!

One of the best times to visit Europe is definitely in April. Book your early springtime adventure now, we promise you won’t regret it!

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Discover our April and year-round departures by browsing our upcoming tours! You’re sure to find the perfect trip for you.