6 reasons why spring is the best time to visit Europe
Spring is the ideal time to try new things, embrace fresh adventures, and push away the winter hibernation blues. And what better way to do that than through travel? Europe is the perfect destination for a springtime getaway. Not only does the continent provide a wide variety of climates and landscapes to choose from, but spring vacationers can also save money on their trip while at the same time avoiding the tiresome summer crowds. It’s a win-win situation! Below we’ve rounded up six reasons Spring is the best time to visit Europe, so what are you waiting for?! Europe is awaiting your arrival!
1) Petals, parks, and photo-worthy views
Every spring, London’s Notting Hill transforms with cherry trees in bloom and AXP Photography captured it in full flair.
There’s something quietly beautiful about a city shaking off its winter coat. Parks fill with color, balconies overflow with flowers, and even the grumpiest urban corners seem to soften around the edges. Nearly every European city has its green spots, Paris has the Jardin du Luxembourg, Prague the Petřín gardens, London’s sprawling Hyde Park. And when spring arrives? Locals flock to them like bees to honey.
Photos pop a little more. Spirits lift. It’s hard not to feel that tiny nudge of joy when everything around you is coming back to life. And whether you're chasing cherry blossoms in Copenhagen or wildflowers along a Croatian coast road, the scenery alone makes the trip worth it.
2) The weather’s playing nice (most of the time)
Bergen’s Bryggen is a UNESCO-listed wharf dating back to the 14th century, thanks to Maggie Lentz for this scenic shot.
Spring and Fall are by far the most temperate times to visit Europe, however, when visiting during the Spring months, you get to feel the excitement and anticipation of the local population for the upcoming warmer months. While the definition of a 'bad winter' can vary wildly across the continent, after the short, dark days of January and February, Europeans everywhere are eager to get some fresh air, so parks, town squares and outdoor seating areas are bustling with activity. A jacket and scarf may still be required but the sense of hope and optimism for the new season can really be felt. Come to enjoy the spring sun!
3) Longer days = more time to explore
Europe 'Springs forward' on the last Sunday of March, meaning although we all lose out on an hour of sleep, the evenings finally start getting longer and lighter. Long evenings are a staple of European summers, and the hour change means that spring has officially arrived. For travellers, the lighter evenings means you can linger a bit longer at the café. Take your time wandering the back alleys of Venice. Snap a few more golden-hour photos of the Eiffel Tower. It's sightseeing, with room to breathe.
4) More things are open
The Tuileries Garden is one of Paris’ oldest public parks, and this view by Kris Atomic captures its perfect mix of elegance and fun.
During the winter months, historical buildings and sites often operate under reduced opening hours and staffing. Sometimes they are even closed altogether for refurbishments. Come springtime regular hours and staff numbers resume, ready and waiting to welcome you to their venue. As spring falls at the beginning of the 'busy season' morale is high and facilities newly renovated, meaning you early bird visitors get to experience the very best.
5) Fewer tourists, more locals
Kraków’s main square is the largest medieval town square in Europe, this photo by Maksym Harbar shows it at its quiet best.
Talking of the very best, as a Spring visitor, you will be ahead of the crowds that descend on the continent every summer. Lines are shorter, public transport is less crowded, tours not over-booked, prices not yet hiked up. Being ahead of the summer holiday crowd can be a huge advantage, especially for visitors looking to get away from the typical tourist gimmicks. Less tourists also means more locals! So if you are hoping to spend time around the people who actually live in the city you are visiting, Spring is the time to do it before they jet off for their own vacations!
6) Cheaper fares and travel costs
Not only is spring a prime time for airlines to knock down their prices, but hotels, tour providers, and sometimes even restaurants offer discounts for springtime visitors. This is in part due things being quieter than they are in the summer, but venues are also often testing out their products and services before the numbers pick up. So if you're not overly fussed about perfection there are plenty of cheap deals to be found for savvy spring travellers.
Need a little inspiration? Here are some spring-perfect spots that travelers love:
Ljubljana, Slovenia – A charming, green capital that comes alive in spring. Think café terraces by the river, blooming parkland, and easy day trips to Lake Bled or Postojna Cave.
Sintra, Portugal – Blooming, fairytale-like gardens and colorful palaces, minus the high-season crowds. The nearby coast also starts warming up, perfect for a breezy coastal drive.
Lake Como, Italy – Spring melts the snow from the surrounding Alps, flowers spill down the hillsides, and the lakefront towns aren’t yet overwhelmed by summer yachts and weddings.
Český Krumlov, Czechia – This storybook town feels even more magical in spring, with riverside strolls, castle views, and just enough sunshine to enjoy a pint outdoors.
Budapest, Hungary – Thermal baths feel extra special after a chilly winter, and spring festivals fill the city with food, music, and flowers. Plus, those Danube sunset views? Unreal.
Seville, Spain – Orange blossoms in the air, flamenco in the streets, and patio culture in full swing. This city practically defines spring fever in the best way.
Vienna, Austria – The gardens at Schönbrunn Palace burst into bloom, coffee houses spill onto the streets, and the vibe shifts from buttoned-up winter to relaxed, classical charm.
Ghent, Belgium – Fewer tourists than Bruges, just as gorgeous canals, and spring markets and festivals that give the city a fun, youthful edge.
