best places to visit in the world spring

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20+ Most Beautiful Spring Destinations In The World

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The serious bleakness of winter frost gives way to the colours of spring. The world becomes your oyster as spring marks a vacation season with different hues across the globe. Why not spend springtime on a countryside escape, a European city spring tour or an indulgent island adventure? With so many spring places to visit, we have rounded up the 20+ best spring destinations in the world. So, get ready to visit the world’s most beautiful places on your next holiday.

Top Spring Destinations In The World

Rock city gardens.

Spring in Europe welcomes the warm season with pleasant average day temperatures and the onset of lovely weather. One of the best places to visit in spring is the Rock City Gardens in Georgia. Stroll through the botanical and geological wonder and witness the first blooms of spring across the mountain vistas. Each step along the enchanting trail reveals the renewed goodness of spring weather. Rock City Gardens is one of the best spring places in the world with over 400 native species of plants and trees around the woodland garden pathway in full bloom.

Average Price : $24.95 (adults); $14.95 (children age 3-12)

Timings :8.30 am to 5.30 pm

Pro tip : Entry to Rock City Gardens requires prior reservations, so don’t forget to book your ticket online in advance.

Paradise Island

Spring in Maldives is perfect for sunbathers and divers with crystal clear waters. Sun shines brightly and the warm sea breeze makes Maldives one of the top spring destinations. Coral reefs, cyan blue water, snorkelling spots, canoeing experiences and more make the season a peak time to holiday. Rainfall is scanty and the archipelago is a go-to destination for feasting the water. Delicious cuisines and a celebratory atmosphere in the resorts makes Paradise Island a fabulous honeymoon place in the world.

Timings : Tour timing

Pro tip : Bring along your suntan lotion to avoid sunburns

Canals of Amsterdam

Spring marks the blooming of Tulips in the Netherlands that hosts the famous Tulip Festival. The average highs of 12°C make the country intermeshed with canals a favourite destination. Enjoy the brilliant burst of colourful flowers and sites as you pick one of the various canal cruises on offer. Travel to the land of canals and float through the city in cheer in Amsterdam. This is the ultimate spring place in Netherlands as you cruise the canals with beautiful sights of the season. Pick the city as your next spring vacation destination.

Timings : 10.00 am to 6.00 pm (canal cruise)

Pro tip : Don’t forget to take stunning photographs of the vistas with a high powered lens.

Greece welcomes you to a sun-kissed land that offers the best spring vacations, delicious cuisine, Greek culture and spectacular islands. Santorini is one of the best spring destinations in Greece with a beautiful blue & white coloured aura. Look forward to a world of adventure on the Greek island in the southern Aegean Sea that is a masterpiece of extraordinary physical beauty and colour. The amazing Caldera formed many centuries ago by volcanic eruptions gives Santorini its spectacular sea views. Mykonos, Crete, Naxos, and Paros are among the other best spring places to visit in Greece.

Timings : Day tour

Pro tip : The Greece islands are a hot selling spring vacation this year, so book your spring tour quickly.

Brockway Mountain

Take a wild spring break in Brockway Mountain, Michigan and see panoramic views in a USA spring destination. The stretch of mountain road comes roaring back to life in the spring where you see migratory hawks. Running along the ridge of Brockway Mountain to Isle Royale National Park, enjoy a spring place in USA. The area boasts colourful wildflowers of over 700 species. Gaze at the beauty of Lake Superior views and visit the biggest town of Eagle Harbor along the road.

Pro tip : The road is shut in the winter season and is at the northern tip of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Keukenhof Tulip Gardens

This is a top spring place to visit in Netherlands with a brilliant burst of freshness and colour. The Netherlands Tulip Gardens is among the most beautiful places in the world in spring. Every year more than 7 million flower bulbs are planted in the autumn that blossom into 800 different tulips in spring. Walking between the tulips on a hiking trail will give you an unforgettable experience of the flower garden and various pavilions. There are flower shows to admire and also many statues made by renowned artists in the park.

Timings : 8.00 am to 7.30 pm

Average Price : $54.33 (Tulip Festival Card)

Pro tip : There are various restaurants and terraces where you can relax and enjoy spectacular views over delicious cuisine.

Visit Singapore, one of the top family destinations in the world on a spring tour. Discover tranquil moments on your nature trail at Sentosa. This is also a cheap place to visit for spring break in Sentosa Island for free. Experience with your family the wonders of heritage trees, migratory birds and stunning butterflies. Some of the trees are from rare habitats like the coastal rainforest, rocky seashores, and wetlands. This is one of the most wonderful Sentosa island attractions and top places for a spring holiday.

Timings : 9.00 am to 5.00 pm

Pro tip : Look for the rare and endangered Magpie Robin.

Reynisfjara Beach

Reynisfjara Beach is astounding with its basalt columns and black sands. This is one of the best spring places in the world for its black beaches. Reynisfjara is the best beach place in spring with its famous basalt columns. It is one of the most easily accessible beaches in Iceland located on the south coast just 2.5 hours from Reykjavik. Taking a day trip and getting to the beach off Highway 1 is simpler on a GPS. Behold the sights of an incredible beach, a must in your Iceland spring tour.

Pro tip : Not all roads will be open in spring and it depends on the weather.

Skopelos Island

One of the best spring destinations in Greece is Skopelos Island which is swoon-worthy. Skopelos is the greenest of all islands and is covered by beautiful pine trees and surrounded by crystalline blue waters. This is an incredible spring place to visit in Greece . Witness the chapel of St. John in Kastri around sunset for incredible views. With sparkling white and blue cobalt mainlands, azure seas and incredible islands, Greece is a spring vacation destination waiting to happen.

Timings : 7 days tour

Average Price : $1518 (7 day trip to Skopelos for a solo traveller)

Pro tip : More than 67% of the island is covered with pine trees making it a top spring destination.

As winter thaws Bonn is one of the best spring places in Germany with the springtime cherry blossom spectacle. The west German city is where thousands of ornamental cherry trees are in a spring floral display. It unfolds every year as carpets of pink petals fill the cobblestone pathways. Typically seen in the first two weeks of April, Cherry Blossom Avenue becomes one of the most beautiful spring places in the world. The boughs of trees become laden with flowers and is a splendid Instagrammable adventure.

Pro tip : Bonn is the birthplace of the famous composer Beethoven, excited to take a spring tour here!

Holiday in the picture-perfect European city, Switzerland this spring. Experience a blissful journey and enjoy the nature’s beauty of the Swiss Alps. This picturesque destination with turquoise blue lakes, meadows and cowbells will leave you spellbound and excited. Relive your childhood fantasies from Federer cheez, chocolates, swiss knives and colourful cowbells. Be in the embrace of the magnificent Alps, numerous lakes, and brilliant spring vibes in Interlaken, one of the most beautiful places in the world.

Pro tip : Take the thrilling cogwheel ride up to Jungfrau and enjoy one of the best spring vacations.

This best beach place in spring is a favourite for both tourists and spring breakers. The city in Mexico is known for its white sandy beaches, incredible water sports and warm spring weather. Take a Cancun spring break and revel in an international destination to enjoy a spring holiday. The fascinating turquoise blue seas, incredible nightlife and beach-front strips in Cancun make this one of the best spring places for beach vibes. Enjoy first-class hotel infrastructure and fabulous resorts in a coastal city called ‘The Mexican Caribbean’.

Timings : 24-hours (beach access)

Average Price : approximately $ 1116 (7-day trip for a solo traveller)

Pro tip: Try tamales, a Mesoamerican cuisine for an enjoyable meal, and pick a local market to avoid expenses.

US Virgin Islands

One of the best USA spring destinations, the US Virgin Islands is a perfect Caribbean spring break. The three major islands – St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas are known for their best beach places in spring, charming buildings, rich culture and crystal-clear harbours. There are plenty of attractions from the Coral World Aquarium to the 18th-century sugar mills ruins. Don’t miss booking a private yacht charter for an awesome adventure at sea. Pick a favourite beach resort for a spring escape in 2022 in one of the top spring destinations.

Average Price : starting from $2789 ( for 2 people for a 7 days tour)

Pro tip : This is not one of the cheap places to visit for spring break and prices are high on accommodation and transportation.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Take advantage of the springtime to experience the wonders of the Dubai Miracle Garden in a 72,000 square metre garden space. The patterns, arches and myriad shapes of the garden make it a magnificent UAE point of interest. The Citylands signature creations, floral display of Disney characters and floral sculpture of an Airbus A380 are some of the splendid garden landscapes. The fascinating concepts with almost 100,000 flowers in different colours and perfumes make this a fabulous spring place to visit.

Timings : 9.00 am to 9.00 pm

Average Price : $10.89

Pro tip : Every year from mid-November to mid-May, the garden is in full bloom with over 150 million flowers arranged, the best time to travel to Dubai.

Golden Isles of Georgia

This is one of the top family destinations in the world with scenic beaches and adventurous water sports. The coastal charms and unspoilt natural beauty include the best beach places in spring. The Driftwood Beach on Jekyll Island is a photographers’ paradise. The East Beach on St. Simons Island offers biking, shelling and surfing activities. Or head to the Little St. Simon Island, seven miles of a private shore for solitude. There is a beach for everyone here, so find yours to have a perfect spring holiday.

Average Price: Based on the summer and spring tour

Pro tip: Before venturing out, check the events in the various locations and the dates. Request for a free travel guide on exploregeorgia.org

This is one of the world`s most beautiful places and hidden gems on the northeast coast of the Dominican Republic. The clear waters in the peninsula are ideal from January to March as around 2000 humpback whales birth and nurse their calves in the bay. The spring break destination offers fascinating whale-watching expeditions led by the conservationist Kim Beddall. Catch a boat excursion or observe the whales from the Punta Balandra observatory. The Samana Peninsula is one of the best spring places to visit in the world.

Timings : 9.00 am to 4.00 pm (observatory)

Average Price : Free (observatory entry)

Pro tip : Look for an airline ticket that includes a 30-day tourist card cost included.

Playa del Carmen

This city in Mexico is among the perfect family destinations in the world for a spring holiday. Looking for a cheap and budget-friendly spring tour then Playa del Carmen is your choice. There are incredible sites to see like the Tulum and some amazing beaches to visit. The downtown area is quaint with everything you may need in this coastal city. Soak up the sun rays in one of the most beautiful places in the world with colourful, energetic and vibrant vibes. This Mexico city offers among the best spring vacations with a lot of entertainment and things to do.

Pro tip : Keep in mind that weekends and the peak season can get very crowded.

Take a spring holiday to Freeport in the Bahamas and be prepared to enliven your body, soul and mind. Land in the Bahamas which is one of the best spring destinations in the world to find a beautiful island with amazing sandy beaches, clear waters and warm spring weather. The Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach located in Freeport Bahamas is one of the best spring places to visit in the Caribbean. Take the best spring break ever and book into budget-friendly beachfront hotels that offer all-inclusive packages.

Timings : 10.30 am to 3.15 pm (snorkelling excursion)

Average Price : $49.71 ( Sea Safari snorkelling excursion)

Pro tip : Nightlife has plenty of fun activities at the famous Port Lucaya Square with over 30 bars and restaurants.

Sorrento in Italy is a top spring destination where the crowds and the heat of the summer are yet to arrive. With hotel rates lower and plenty of attractions, this is a cheap place to visit for spring break. Savour the coastline views, sip on limoncello or relish seafood. The charming streets in Sorrento, the beautiful blossoming gardens across the coastline and more welcome you. Spring also is a season for asparagus and artichokes in Italy. Sorrento also has nearby Capri, the Amalfi Coast and other best spring vacation hotspots.

Pro tip: Sorrento is a bit touristy and can get crowded. So, plan your vacation accordingly.

Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a resort town located at the southern tip of Baja California Sur in Mexico. This is the best place to visit in spring that inspires images of poolside fun, blue skies, endless ocean views and a picture-perfect spring holiday. The beaches of Cabo are not safe for swimming, so the local resorts are equipped with large pools such as the unique saltwater lagoon. This is big enough for paddle boarding or kayaking to splash and cool off. Choose from among the best beach resorts in Cabo San Lucas, one of the top spring destinations.

Pro tip : Take a sandy walk on Lovers Beach to see the rock formations. Don’t miss bringing your camera along.

Springtime in Vancouver, Canada is delightful, especially in April. You can admire the cherry blossoms at the Dr Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden, or wander through the Stanley Park Rose Garden and the VanDusen Botanical Garden. Catch live music and great food at the Shipyards Night Market on Friday evenings. Begin to see orca or grey whales migrate from April or go kayaking to see otters, seals and more. Spring weather is warmer in Canada making it a top spring tour to take.

Pro tip : With 22 gardens to visit in spring book your tickets in advance.

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The 50 Most Stunning Spring Destinations In The World

best places to visit in the world spring

Spring is a beautiful season. It is often seen as a symbol of new beginnings, and it offers a lot more than pretty flowers. The rising temperatures lure keen explorers to destinations with extreme adventures . Daylight saving time is in full effect and days are longer, which gives you more time to explore places at a time when they are showing their true beauty. There is no reason why colorful parks, striking natural attractions , woodlands, and small quaint towns shouldn't be all around you.

Castelluccio, Umbria, Italy

Umbria, the underrated region next to Tuscany, is known as the "green heart" of Italy. In April and May, the countryside becomes dotted with violets, primroses, crocus and red poppies. The little Umbrian town of Castelluccio di Norcia in particular is famous for its spring flowers. The annual Flowering of Castelluccio di Norcia is when almost 6 square miles of grazing land between the Sibillini Mountains turn red, white and blue with thousands of flowers.

Alishan National Scenic Area, Taiwan

This is where you go to see some of the most stunning cherry blossom displays in the world. The mountain resort and nature preserve is by far one of Taiwan's top attractions. There are many Yoshino and Formosan cherry trees, about 1,000 Yaebenishidare (double-blossom dropping cherry trees). You can also enjoy and explore the surrounding local villages, forests, waterfalls , tea plantations, and hiking trails.

Douro Valley, Portugal

The Port wine production activities and the unique scenery sculpted by the Douro River and its streams are highpoints for tourists. The valley, which has its own micro-climate, is home to three World Heritage Sites recognized by UNESCO. You'll see breathtaking landscapes , beautiful buildings and riverbanks, otherworldly plant life, and stunning green hills covered in almond and olive trees. You can also go canoeing, biking, or birdwatching or take an environmental cruise.

Giverny Monet’s Garden, France

April is the time to go to see stunning daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, daisies, myosotis, and cherry blossoms. The popular Giverny Monet's Garden, which includes the iconic Water Garden, opens on March 24. This is where the famous Japanese bridge is, covered with wisterias. Other smaller bridges, weeping willows, a bamboo wood, and water lillies which bloom all summer long can also be seen. The land in the Clos Normand is divided into flowerbeds where flower clumps of different heights create volume.

Washington, D.C.

The " nation's greatest springtime celebration " is in the country's capital. The tradition started in 1912 when the mayor of Tokyo gave 3,000 cherry trees to the U.S. as a sign of friendship. Some of the favorite events during the event are the Blossom Kite Festival (March 31) and the parade down Constitution Avenue, which also happens to be one of the largest displays in the country.

The Brooklyn Botanical Garden, New York

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden has been labeled one of New York City's greatest treasures . It has at least 20 different gardens, pavilions, exhibits, collections, and even museums. The lilacs are especially popular in April and May when their scent fills up the air. In late April, the bluebells burst into flowers and create a captivating woodland spectacle. The tree peonies and their marvelous aroma bloom in April and May as well.

Lisse, Netherlands

Most people go to see the tulip fields outside Amsterdam, one of the most colorful places on Earth and a "museum" of the most beautiful sights in the entire country. But the "Garden of Europe," or Keukenhof Park, is worth a visit to marvel at stunning tulips and other bulbs. It is one of the most beautiful spring gardens in the world . There are more than 7 million bulbs and around 800 varieties of tulips.

Caceres, Spain

Caceres will win you over with its more than two million cherry trees in the Jerte Valley. Each year, around the second fortnight in March, the cherry trees open their flowers, covering the mountainsides in impressive swathes of white, according to Spain Info. Take an unhurried stroll on the tracks and trails between the valley's villages . This is how you welcome the new season in style. Biking, quad biking, horse riding, and hiking are favorite activities.

Furano, Japan

Lavender has been cultivated in Hokkaido for more than half a century, according to Japan Guide. Furano's lavender fields attract thousands of visitors to the region every year. The majority of lavender usually starts blooming in late June and reaches its peak from around mid-July to early August. Other kinds of flowers that lure tourists in June are rape blossoms, poppies and lupins.

Central Park, New York

Iconic for New York and the U.S., Central Park is among the most famous parks in the world . The green oasis of about 845 acres in the middle of concrete Manhattan offers plenty to do. Jog around the large reservoir, sunbathe or have a picnic on the Great Lawn, find solitude behind one of the huge rocks or along the many trails. Some of the most popular attractions are the zoo, carriage horses, Strawberry Fields, which are a tribute to John Lennon, and the Victorian Gardens.

Seoul, South Korea

Set between four guardian mountains, Seoul is a soulful city with a pulse that's almost palpable. The city is a round-the-clock wonder , a haven for foodies, and a site full of history and stunning architecture. Visiting the North Korea/ South Korea border, the international port Incheon, or the World Heritage sites at Suwon is well worth the effort.

Hill Country, Texas

You know how everything is bigger in Texas? Flowers are no exception. The bluebonnets are more than 12 inches tall, so it's no wonder they are Texans' favorite. Drive around Hill Country to see the mighty flowers anywhere you turn. There is even a designated Bluebonnet Trail in Ennis and a festival from April 20-22.Explore the more than 40 miles of mapped driving routes – the oldest such trails known in the state.

Greek Islands

People flock to Greece in the summer but spring is just as adventurous, with the added bonus of fewer tourists and cheaper prices . Nature is flourishing with exotic flowers and shining waters . Most of the country is mountainous, presenting quite the challenge even for avid hikers. But most of the popular routes are well-maintained. The hiking adventure will take you to the serene realms of Tinos and rocky Amorgos. You'll come across churches, cliff-perched monasteries, and tiny beaten villages.

Northumberland, England

This is known as England's most tranquil national park , according to Visit Northumberland, and it really blossoms in the spring. Howick Hall Garden & Arboretum is a gardener's paradise, with the grounds packed full of daffodils from March. The Alnwick Garden, which is one of the most popular sites there, is open all year round, with events such as the Cherry Blossom Festival showcasing the delights of the new season. Many of Northumberland's heritage sites, halls and castles have stunning gardens.

Hitachi Seaside Park, Hitachinaka, Japan

Japan is known worldwide for its stunning displays of spring flowers . But the Hitachi Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture is something else. The park covers green spaces and seasonal flowers spread out across 350 hectares. There is also an amusement park and several cycling and walking trails, so you can enjoy unique views of the mind-blowing colors .

Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

The lupines of Sugar Hill are known all over the country. Imagine yellow, red, white and all kinds of wildflowers amid the beautiful purple lupines while hearing birds and butterflies hover around with mountains ranges in the background . The state pays homage to this captivating wildflower with the Fields of Lupine Festival, now known as the Celebration of Lupine, every year.

Vancouver, Canada

Japan has given Vancouver more than 37,000 cherry blossom trees. No wonder the city gets so into the sakura celebration. Visit in time for the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival when hundreds of blossoms at a time can be found in different parts of Vancouver and its 50 parks . Two of the favorite spots for pictures are Stanley Park and the Queen Elizabeth public garden.

Hallerbos, Belgium

There is a good reason why it's called "The Blue Forest." It is the most important and most extensive forest area between Zenne and Zoniën. This is one of the most popular attractions for tourists due to the regal purple carpet of bluebells. The best time to see them blooming is in the middle of April. The gigantic Sequoia trees will make your visit more than worth it.

Sognefjorden, Norway

This is the longest fjord in Europe stretching for more than 127 miles. In the spring it's covered with stunning wildflowers. The fjords often have a beautiful emerald green color because of the meltwater from the glaciers, according to Visit Norway. The mountain areas surrounding the innermost part of Sognefjorden are amongst Norway's most popular hiking areas. Besides hiking, other popular activities in the area include rafting, mountaineering, rock climbing, summer skiing and mountain biking.

Portland, Oregon

Portland is known as the "City of Roses" (its climate is ideal for the gorgeous flowers, which bloom in April) but you can enjoy a sea of tulips just a half hour away during the annual Tulip Festival (March 23-April 30). You can find more than 40 acres covered with the beautiful spring bulbs at the Wooden Shoe Tulip Farm. The Rose Festival and its Grand Floral Parade are equally mesmerizing.

Bonn, Germany

When you hear "cherry blossom festival" you probably think D.C. or Japan – certainly not Germany – but Bonn will impress you. The pink blossoms on Heerstrasse, which locals call the Cherry Blossom Avenue, are enchanting. And how can they not – gorgeous pink spurs all over cobblestone streets... Stop by the Nordstadt quarter to see the pink flowers "creating" magic (it's only minutes from Beethoven's house).

Ashikaga Flower Park, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan

This is where you'll go to see stunning wisteria, or fuji flowers. Ashikaga Flower Park features lots of blue, white and pink fuji , as well as yellow laburnum that look like yellow colored fuji, according to Japan Guide. One large fuji tree is a century old and its branches are supported to create a huge umbrella of blue fuji flowers.

Yosemite National Park, California

If you have an RV and want to go on a long camping trip , Yosemite is your destination. It has 13 popular campgrounds. Reservations are recommended for many of them, especially if you plan to go between May and September. You won't see cars or roads in most of the park. Go on a hiking trip to Glacier Point for a stunning view of the famed Yosemite Valley and Half Dome, which is one of the most dangerous places in the region . You can see California poppies and other species at lower elevations; redbud and dogwood also tend to bloom in May.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Visitors of the Shenandoah National Park get to explore more than 200,000 acres of beautiful mountains, stunning waterfalls and rich wildlife. Hiking a section of the Appalachian Trail in perfect 60-degree weather sounds like a dream, but it can easily become true. Take a road trip along the Skyline Drive, the only public road through the park, for unmatched beauty and easy access to backcountry adventures. It rides the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains for 105 miles.

Skagit Valley, Washington

This is the perfect spring road trip if you live in Seattle or even Vancouver . The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is among the best season events in the Pacific Northwest, held from April 1-30. There are endless fields of millions tulips bursting into bloom. Don't miss the Anacortes Spring Wine festival on April 7.

Monterey Bay, California

As wildflowers begins to bloom all kinds of fun events take center stage. The pink succulents are what the region is known for in the spring. Imagine them and the ocean in the background – it's hard to beat that view. Large areas covered with bushed and flowers of different colors – pink, yellow, and purple – will take your breath away. Bonus: Spring is also the time to go whale watching in Monterey Bay.

Channel Islands, Normandy

The region off the French coast of Normandy is marvelous in the spring. Visitors are enchanted by the charming and quaint cottages and extensive island vistas. Spring is the time to go the Sark Island in time for the Wild Flower Fortnight festival in late April through early May and go on a wildflower walk. Take another walk below the sea cliffs along the unspoiled coastline . Cars are not allowed ion the island, which only adds to its charm.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee / North Carolina

This national park, the most visited one in the country , has more than 1,500 different kinds of flowers, the most in the country. That's why its nickname is the "Wildflower National Park." Visit the park for the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage on April 24-28 for professionally guided programs which explore the region's rich wildflowers, wildlife, ecology, culture, and natural history through walks, motorcades, photographic tours , art classes, and indoor seminars. The park, its 800 miles of trails, stunning landscape and 2,100 miles of streams are among the most visited in the country. Campers have so many choices, including a horse camp option.

Crested Butte, Colorado

The Alpine Loop Scenic Byway offers a wide range of spring wildflowers . Whether you drive along the roads or walk, be sure to look for the beautiful Colorado blue columbine. The Crested Butte has been known as the "Wildflower Capital" of the state. There, you will also find stunning yellow sunflowers, purple delphiniums, lupines and death camas, which are a kind of lily flower. The famous wildflower festival is in July.

Lausanne, Switzerland

Lausanne is in western Switzerland, surrounded by the stunning Alps. Just imagine the majestic mountains in the spring and it's easy to understand why visiting in the spring should be on bucket lists. Popular activities include hiking and sailing in the warmer months.

Cape Floral Kingdom, South Africa

Inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2004, the property at the south-western extremity of South Africa is one of the world's great centers of terrestrial biodiversity, according to UNESCO. The region includes national parks, nature reserves, wilderness areas , state forests, and mountain catchment areas. It is recognized as one of the most special places for plants in the world.

Bartram’s Garden, Pennsylvania

The garden, the oldest living botanic garden in the U.S., is just one reason why Philadelphia is a must-visit city . The 45-acre National Historic Landmark is a destination and an outdoor classroom as well as a living laboratory that is visited by more than 40,000 people every year. Admission is free. The garden features a wildflower meadow, river trail, wetland and farm buildings, and they offer tours.

Seryang-je, Hwasun County, South Korea

Seryang-Je, a reservoir built in 1969 in Hwasun, is a famous spot for both professional and amateur photographers, especially in the spring because of its otherworldly haze and reflections of leaves and colorful blossoms. The green tea fields are a famous attraction there as well as all over the country.

Menorca, Spain

Spring is the time to visit. The sights of the green landscapes covered in flowers and the woodlands ringing with birdsong will make this your favorite destination in Spain . The weather is perfect for activity holidays like walking, riding, and cycling, and for the hardy northerners the sea temperature which averages about 64 F is perfect for a bracing dip, according to Responsible Travel.

Savannah, Georgia

Southern charm comes to life everywhere in this gorgeous city, the nickname of which is "the Forest City." Its signature live oak trees are absolutely stunning in the spring. Don't skip Forsyth Park for another doze of spectacular blooms. Take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage to experience incredible gardens .

Mojave Desert, California

You can start seeing wildflowers there as early as February. The most famous ones are the orange poppies, which bloom from March through May. You can also hike 8 miles of trails around stunning spring flowers. In the Antelope Valley, you can also find tons of lupines and cream cups.

El Hierro, Canary Islands

El Hierro is a typical volcanic island with a unique variety of plant and animal species that inhabit the island. Much of the territory is under the auspices of UNESCO , according to Tourist Maker. Nature walks are quite popular. Explore the majestic El Sabinar and its huge juniper trees. The Mencafete Reserve is the place to be for walking trails along hidden caves, meandering springs, and the dense Laurel forest.

Cotswolds, England

The Cotswolds covers almost 800 square miles. One of the delights of visiting is exploring the different areas, each with its own identity, yet all with those defining Cotswold features: golden stone and rolling hills, according to Visit Cotswolds. This is where you'll find some of country's greatest palaces and castles . Marvel at the natural world in much-admired reserves and at some of the most famous arboretas in Britain. You'll see vibrant wild daffodils, primroses, magnolias, and bluebells.

Pokhara Valley, Nepal

Pokhara, a gateway to Nepal's Annapurna region, is one of the world's best vacation destinations for animal lovers . It is also considered one of the world's top spots for paragliding due, in part, to jaw-dropping views of glaciers, lakes, and snow-covered peaks, according to National Geographic.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Kalaloch is the only campground that accepts reservations in the summer. All other campgrounds are first-come, first-served, according to NPS. Consider camping at Deer Park, which boasts mountain views worth the climb and starry skies like few other places since it's at 5,400 feet in elevation. If you want to experience secluded tenting, Dosewallips Campground is your spot. Go hiking and explore the rugged glacier-capped mountains, wild Pacific coast, or lavish rainforest.

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

This is where you go for lupines in bursting colors – from purples and pinks to blues and yellows – shooting up along lake sides and in riverbeds in Mackenzie Country. These are absolutely incredible sights.

Provence, France

Once you see the Lavender Fields in person, purple will become your favorite color. The bloom from June to August around Mont Ventoux makes for a regal scenery and atmosphere . This blue gold is used to make soap and cosmetics . Go on a relaxing walk along the lavender roads in Provence from the field to the distillery, and embrace the intense colors around you.

Luoping, China

Luoping County is known all over the world for its large scale rapeseed flowers. They blossom in the early spring between March and late May. Seemingly infinite blue sky, golden flowers anywhere you turn looking like a golden sea, and gentle winds make every tourist love this flower heaven.

Dublin, Ireland

This is one of the most cultural cities in the world and it deserves to be visited every season, but spring is especially gorgeous. This is when festivals about everything from music to cooking, are organized. Go in early June in time for the Bloom in the Park, which is Ireland's largest garden festival. The Show Gardens are the crux of the 5-day event.

Pltivice National Park, Croatia

This national park is more like a scene from a fairy tale than an actual place on earth, but the 16 crystal clear lakes, breathtaking waterfalls and vaulted caves are not only real—they're natural formations. Water rich with minerals winds its way down waterfalls and along rocks, continuously changing the landscape as diverse wildlife (bears, wolves, rare birds and butterflies) live in the vast forest that surrounds the lakes.

Glacier National Park, Montana

The Glacier National park is as beautiful to visit in the spring as in the winter – two completely different but equally amazing pictures. Hikers love the park because of the over 700 miles of treks going through forests , pastures, rough mountains, and pristine lakes. All in all, you have more than a million acres to explore and connect with nature.

The Uists, Scotland

What better way to spend some quality time in late spring than relaxing on white sand beaches and exploring dunes covered with wildflowers, and the Machair – the name given to one of the rarest habitats in Europe which only occurs on exposed western coasts of Scotland and Ireland , according to Visit Outer Hebrides. You'll find the greatest diversity of flowers where up to 40 Western Isles plant species can be found within a square meter.

Kitzbüheler Horn Wildflower Garden, Austria

More than 300 different types of plants from all over the world make up this wonderful botanical paradise . It is often called the most beautiful mountain garden in all of Europe. Roam across the green hills, taking in the wide array of flora including Alpine natives such as edelweis and gentian. The best time to visit is May.

Redwood National Park, California

The tallest trees on the planet may be a short drive away from where you live, right in the Redwood National Park. The Tall Trees Grove is the visitors' favorite hike – about 4 miles in each direction. But the trees are not the only attraction. Huge grasslands, oak forests, wild rivers and dozens of miles of beaches keep the park diverse and entertaining.

Rose Valley, Bulgaria

The area covers a just over 1,200 square miles. It's one of the biggest producers of rose oil in the world. Buds start to bloom in the middle of March. The season is longer than you'd expect – well into July –because of frequent rainfalls which help prolong the flowering period.

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The Sultanate of Oman bursts into bloom every March, as the Damask roses that cover Jebel Akhdar (also known as the Green Mountain) begin to flower. Around 90 farms here specialize in the pink shrubs, which are so prized by perfume manufacturers around the world that they’re harvested by hand at dawn. Surround yourself with the heady blossoms and hunker down in a suite at the clifftop Alila Jabal Akhdar . Where better to watch the sunset than from its aptly named Rose Lounge, with views out across the mountains and gorges?

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San Diego, CA

Sunny San Diego has long drawn visitors with its taquerias and beaches—it's home to some of the best in the state. And with 12 to 13 hours of spring daylight, you’ll have plenty of time to explore. Locals won’t miss slow-cooked lamb tacos at Aqui es Texcoco, or Tacos El Gordo De Tijuana, a south-of-the border transplant. To work off your meal, descend into caves at La Jolla Cove, where waves have carved pathways into sandstone cliffs, or explore the immense Balboa Park.

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There’s a reason this island cluster in the Indian Ocean has become a honeymoon mainstay: it offers year-round temperatures hovering in the low 80s, and rarely suffers from rain outside monsoon season in November. The best weather, though, is from January through March, when the water is at its calmest and the sky a permanent sapphire-blue.

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Cartagena, Colombia

March is one of the hottest, driest months in Cartagena , but it’s the ideal climate for a trip to this oceanfront colonial-era hub, which offers a handy two-fer as both city break and beach getaway. Squint slightly on a bougainvillea-wreathed street in the UNESCO-protected Old Town, and it’s like stepping onto the pages of a magic realist novel from Colombia’s own Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Then head for Getsemani , a once-rundown neighborhood a short ride beyond the city walls for a thriving street art scene and some of the city’s best nightlife. The Miami-like resort district of Bocagrande is the easiest place to decompress by the pool.

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Crete, Greece

Of all the Greek islands , Crete is one of the most distinctive—not only because it’s the largest, but also because it has its own unmistakable culture. Trek the roughly 10-mile Samaria Gorge in southwest Crete, where local operators provide tours, and don’t miss traditional villages like Spili, one of the most beautiful spots situated south of Rethymno. Visit in late spring to avoid crowds and too-hot temperatures.

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Phoenix, AZ

It was 1947 when the Cleveland Indians and New York Giants first decamped to Arizona for pre-season warm-ups in spring, kicking off a tradition that now brings 15 MLB teams to take up temporary residence in the Phoenix-Tempe area. Most hotels offer affordable packages that bundle rooms with tickets to the games of your choice.

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Copenhagen, Denmark

Come to Copenhagen in March—when spring begins to fight back against the chilly Nordic winter—and you can find a table at top restaurants more easily than in peak summer season. (Noma reopens at the end of February, but we’re also partial to Kødbyens Fiskebar, Bæst, and Geranium.) As an added bonus, spring offers the chance to chow down on one of Denmark’s national obsessions: black licorice. The " Liquorice Festival " (March 24-25 this year) is a two-day celebration of the sweet-salty treat that Danes consume in huge amounts.

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March brings postcard-perfect weather and two destination festivals to Dubai this year. Travelers can explore the Dubai Food Festival (February 22-March 10), which includes offerings like Dubai Restaurant Week, Beach Canteen, and Taste of Dubai, with past performances by Billy Ocean and Boney M. There's also Fatafeat Kitchen, a family-friendly interactive cooking demo and tasting session. And let’s not forget about the Dubai International Kite Fest (March 9-10) coloring the sky for two days only with kite creations from around the world.

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Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Yes, the archipelago will enjoy tropical weather in March—expect heavy, if brief, downpours—but water temperatures and sunny days are at their peak. Twenty percent of the marine life here is found nowhere else in the world: head to Camaño Islet, Santa Cruz Island for the chance to see marine iguanas hunting for food under water, or El Arco, Darwin Island, which is renowned for shark-spotting. On land, it’s turtle-hatching season, and by the end of March, you should also witness the return of the islands’ famed waved albatross (pictured), which fly back from Peru.

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Glasgow, Scotland

Edinburgh may be the Scottish capital, but Glasgow is the country's de facto capital of culture. Here, you'll find the Scottish Opera, Scottish Ballet, National Theatre of Scotland, and multiple world-renowned museums and galleries like Kelvingrove. Visit in March, April, or May, when temps hover in the 60s and summer tourists haven't yet hit the city.

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The Maghreb on Africa’s northwestern coast is the region in and around the Atlas Mountains, encompassing swathes of Morocco , Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya. The best time to explore this area is in April, with balmy and crisp temperatures hovering in the 70s. Head to Marrakech for the bustling Bab Doukkala market, the enormous Koutoubia Mosque, or just the chance to wander down one of the city’s 3,000 or so alleyways. For a more adult-aimed trip, head instead to Tangier (pictured), a louche, old-fashioned hideaway where the Rolling Stones and Paul Bowles once came to misbehave in private.

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Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is popular as a winter sunspot for Northern Hemisphere types, but the muggy Porteño summer can make exploring the city unappealing. Come instead as fall begins in April, with the foliage gently turning and daytime temperatures consistently in the 60s and 70s (bring a light sweater for the cooler evenings). The city’s annual answer to Tribeca Film Festival, BAFICI, turns the city into a hub of Spanish language indie cinema from April 11-22, while Nuestros Caballos (April 4-8) offers the chance to experience Argentina’s horse-made culture first-hand.

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Tokyo, Japan

Splurge on a long-haul trip to Tokyo, where thousands of cherry trees , or sakura , burst into bloom each spring and mark the end of winter. (April 1 is the start of the academic and financial years in Japan.) There’s a ritual to enjoying the blossoms, known as hanami (literally, ‘looking at flowers’): To make like a local, pick up a seasonal bento box from a supermarket and head to a park for an al fresco lunch under the branches. Ueno Park is popular, but often overcrowded, so try Shinjuku Gyoen as an alternate.

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Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is postcard-pretty Italy, rimmed by the "road of 1,000 bends" that connects small villages via a landscape of olive groves and lemon trees. But seeing as crowds can clog that tiny two-lane road come summertime, spring is a much smarter option. Even better, it’s also when the flowers, whose heady scent is so synonymous with this Italian hideaway, burst into bloom: Jasmine and orange decorate the balconies and the trellises bolted to the cliffs. As a base for exploring, substitute quieter, less glitzy Praiano for the better known Positano.

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New York City, NY

Every April since 2002 (when Robert De Niro helped co-found this movie fest), the Tribeca Film Festival has brought a roster of intriguing indie films and a glut of A-list stars to downtown Manhattan in the spring. Unlike many of Manhattan’s glittering events, the Tribeca fest is open to the public (this year from April 18-29), with options ranging from $12 single tickets to a $1,250 all-access pass.

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Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The annual King’s Day (or Koningsdag) celebrations sweep the Netherlands on the last Saturday in April each year. (It’s the official, rather than actual, birthday of the monarch—currently, King Willem-Alexander.) Festivities start with street parties the evening before, and continue the next day with huge flea markets selling trinkets and food. Just be sure to pack some oranje clothes if you want to fit in: The Dutch festoon themselves in their national color for the day. Even better? April marks peak tulip season , so expect riots of color.

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Louisville, KY

You don’t have to love horse racing to take a vacation to Louisville. The Kentucky Derby extends a full week before the actual two minutes of nail-biting competition on the first Saturday in May, with food and wine tastings, dance and music performances on the racetrack, and even the opportunity to watch the contenders train at dawn in the days leading up to the big race.

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The South of France

The world’s glitterati descends on Cannes for the film festival this time every year, when the parties are glamorous and the weather is near perfect. Join the A-list at Chez Tétou (famous for its €100 bouillabaisse) and La Colombe d’Or in nearby Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a gallery/restaurant dotted with paintings by Picasso, Matisse, and co.—once traded by the then-impoverished artists in exchange for food. Alternatively, escape the crowds with a jaunt to Île Sainte-Marguerite, just a 15-minute boat ride out into the Mediterranean. This island is so gloriously isolated; despite its proximity to the Croisette, it was where the real-life inspiration for The Man in the Iron Mask was once quarantined.

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Glacier Bay, Alaska

Spring is feeding season for whales that throng this more than three-million-acre national park just outside Juneau: The gray whales arrive first in late April, followed by minkes, orcas, and humpbacks in May. It’s also peak breeding time for harbor seals—all the more important given their overall numbers have tumbled by 75 percent in the past decade.

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Head to southern Italy before the sweltering days of summer so you can spend time exploring rather than simply baking on the beach. In Sicily’s historic towns—Syracuse, Noto , Taormina—you can get happily lost in millennia-old narrow streets that seem to go on forever, opening up into plazas built around Baroque cathedrals. Or drive up Mount Etna without a traffic jam of tour buses.

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The date of Buddha’s birthday, much like that of Queen Elizabeth II, can vary. In Nepal (Buddha’s actual birthplace), it’s celebrated on the full moon day in May, priming the country for a month-long celebration. Celebrate it at sites like the holy Boudhanath, one of the country’s largest stupas, domed temples, or the main door of the Monkey Temple, Swayambhunath, which is only open for his birthday.

Columbia, SC

Columbia is not only affordable, but easy to get around. Hotel Trundle will be Columbia's first true downtown, independent boutique hotel, and is slated to open in March 2018. Plus, the locally owned and operated hotel will feature 41 rooms across three historic buildings. Additional March events in Columbia, SC include: Chamber Music on Main at Columbia Museum of Art (March 6); March Harvest Dinner at City Roots farm (March 12); Columbia’s independent craft beer celebration, Soda City Suds Week (March 17-24); and St. Pat’s in Five Points (March 17).

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Philadelphia, PA

Until recently, travelers to Philadelphia were more likely to visit the Liberty Bell or the Rocky statue at the Philadelphia Museum of Art than they were to check out a buzzy new restaurant or gallery. But times have changed: Restaurateurs Michael Solomonov, Jose Garces, and Greg Vernick have revitalized the city’s dining scene; and in neighborhoods like Fishtown , Northern Liberties, and West Philadelphia, galleries and other creative ventures are proliferating. This historic city has a whole new feel—and we keep going back.

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The world's smallest country is definitely worth a visit, and the best time to go is before the Grand Prix, when you’ll find lovely springtime temps, lively markets and food halls (we’re partial to Le Marché de la Condamine), and smaller crowds. Be sure to stroll Fontvieille Harbour at dusk.

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Savannah, GA

Savannah is famous for its antebellum architecture, historic cobblestone squares, and Spanish moss that drapes the town in a verdant, storybook haze. Pepper in the hip designers, buzzing coffee shops, mind-blowing farm-to-table restaurants, and avant-garde art scene, and you’ll see why it’s one of the best old-meets-new destinations to visit in the spring.

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Chengdu, China

Often called the gateway to the country's wild west, Chengdu is something like the San Francisco of China —a comparatively lush and relaxed city of 14 million that prides itself on its cuisine ( super-spicy ) and its proximity to nature (pandas are a big deal here). Chengdu's weather is best in spring, when the parks are in bloom, and Hainan Airlines flies direct from Los Angeles and New York.

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Mauritius is one of the only African nations to predominantly practice Hinduism, and the Holi Festival (March 1-2) represents an opportunity for Mauritians and travelers alike to participate in the signature throwing of colored powder. Two weeks later is the 50th Anniversary of Independence (March 12). This golden jubilee will be a historic occasion celebrated by a variety of exhibitions and festivals, while the colorful Mauritius flag is displayed in shops, homes, schools and government buildings all over the island.

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Park City, UT

Spring shoulder season deals abound in Park City, which means you’ve got more money to spend on eating and drinking (don’t miss Handle, High West Distillery & Saloon, and Shades of Pale). In between all that skiing, also make time for music (Park City Live) and books (Atticus Coffee, Books & Teahouse).

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São Paulo, Brazil

With less humidity, sunny days, and average temperatures hovering in the mid-60s and 70s, the South American fall (starting in March) is the ideal time to visit São Paulo. Visitors can check out the destination’s newest five-star hotel (opened in May 2017): Palácio Tangará , an Oetker Collection masterpiece. Nestled amidst 27-acres of parkland designed by landscaper Roberto Burle Marx, about 30 minutes from the city center, Palácio Tangará offers an escape for business and leisure travelers.

Sydney, Australia

Australia’s biggest city is an ideal getaway no matter the season, but Australia’s fall (our spring) is one of our favorites. Dine al fresco, swim like a Sydneysider in rock pools, explore the city’s vibrant arts and culture calendar, and make time for Manly , Australia’s answer to Montauk.

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10 Best Places To Enjoy Spring Around The World

Spring is springing in many parts of the world and, with it, destinations that are beautiful in their bloom-and-blossom season.

Spring is overtaking the globe , transforming dreary landscapes into aromatic, multicolored mirages. Nature is awakening, and people worldwide are spending more time outside. Spring travel is one of life's most fantastic pleasures, nestled between the sky-high prices of the winter season and the masses and warmth of summer. When Spring arrives, the sun warms up, the flowers start to blossom, and the birds chirp joyfully. It's one of the ideal times to appreciate Mother Nature and everything she has to give. Here are the best places in the world to enjoy the Spring Season .

10 Amsterdam, Netherlands

The most significant time to visit Amsterdam is in the Spring. As the city awakens from its winter slumber, trees along the canals bloom with greenery, tulips sprout in vibrant color, and Amsterdam's parks and terraces swarm with people who are seeking the first rays of sunshine. During this season, visitors will be greeted by an explosion of bright tulip fields, one-of-a-kind festivals, and one of the most vivid and exciting Dutch celebrations: King's Day. Visiting Amsterdam in the Spring is an exciting, vibrant experience that should be on every traveler's bucket list.

Trip Cost: $2,255 one week trip

RELATED: The Netherlands Is Home To Some Of The Best Cities In The World

9 Extremadura, Spain

Extremadura, situated in the southwest of Spain and neighboring Portugal, translates as "the country on the margins of the Douro" river, which connects Portugal and Spain. Extremadura is a fantastic year-round vacation destination. Extremadura enjoys an explosion of color with the entrance of Spring, ranging from purest white to green, and transforms the landscape's appearance. With the arrival of Spring, festivals and customs rich in symbolism also begin in Extremadura. Guests may also enjoy the most spectacular birdwatching that Europe offers, making this an unbeatable springtime vacation.

Trip Cost: $2,311 one week trip

8 Scania, Sweden

Aside from being one of Europe's premier travel destinations, Spain is unquestionably one of the continent's best spring getaways. Springtime in Malmö, Scania, Sweden's seaside town, is a cyclist's heaven. The flat terrain and flower fields that border the 500 kilometers of bike paths are best appreciated in the Spring light. More patios emerge in this Spanish town as the days get longer and warmer, generating a more joyous mood than during the winter months.

Trip Cost: $1,745 one week trip

7 Yoshino, Japan

Springtime in Japan has different meanings for different people. Mt. Yoshino, located in Nara Prefecture, is well-known for its spectacular cherry blossom viewing. Thousands of cherry trees cover the mountain, producing a breathtaking view. The gorgeous cherry blossom is a symbolic spring bloom that heralds the approach of better weather and has been adored by the Japanese for ages. Every Spring, the city of Nara is overrun with tourists hoping to see the famed mountain range covered in stunning cherry blossoms.

Trip Cost: $1,659 one week trip

RELATED: Visiting Japan: The Essential Language Guide For First-Timers

6 Gyeongju, South Korea

The weather in South Korea is quite plain and simple to comprehend. There are relatively minor geographical differences across the country, and the year is divided into four different seasons. During this season, the flowers bloom, and green places, particularly in Gyeongju, are bathed in the beautiful colors of the pink cherry blossom. Because the weather is less likely to be adverse, guests may find various festivals and activities taking place.

Trip Cost: $1,705 one week trip

5 Bodrum, Turkey

Bodrum, which is often recognized as one of the best places to visit in the summer, truly shines in the Spring. The temperature is a lovely 25 degrees Celsius throughout the day, and the fewer crowds make it much simpler to explore the city, with the moderate weather serving as the icing on the cake. Several figs, pomegranates, citrus, apricots, cherries, and almonds bloom in the Spring. In addition, the variety of the birds' species prepares for breeding the next generation. Turkey is particularly lovely at this time of year due to the abundance of its tulip plantations.

Trip Cost: $1,416 one week trip

4 Halle, Belgium

Hallerbos, often known as Bois de Halle, is a beech forest located south of Brussels. Every Spring, the forest transforms into a magnificent blue carpeted paradise for several weeks. Millions of tiny bluebells bloom in the shadow of the beech trees, and tourists come to the woods to see them. Also, tourists will genuinely feel they have reached a wonderful dimension when the sun is low and the rays pour through the trees.

Trip Cost: $1,117 one week trip

RELATED: 9 Great Reasons Belgium Should Be On Your Next Itinerary

3 Washington, USA

The natural scenery of Washington state provides an ideal setting for a fun and rewarding spring break visit. Extended areas of sandy coastline, towering snowy mountains, deep green woods, and clean lakes make up the spectacular Pacific Northwestern beauty. In DC, almost 3,000 cherry blossom trees have been planted. When they blossom in the Spring, it's a beautiful sight to behold. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, a three-week-long festival, is held throughout the District to celebrate the yearly occasion.

Trip Cost: $1,716 one week trip

2 Ticino, Switzerland

The perfect season to travel to Switzerland is in the Spring. With the chilly winter frost officially behind them, tourists will have a plethora of options to discover and explore the different sights that this Central European nation offers. Tourists travel to the Italian-speaking Canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland to witness the spring blossoms in all their glory. Ticino is not only a delightful area to visit, but it is also attractive during Spring, thanks to its moderate temperatures and long days of sunshine.

Trip Cost: $1,642 one week trip

1 Queenstown, New Zealand

New Zealand blooms with new life throughout the Spring, and Queenstown is a well-known tourist destination in New Zealand. It's one of those locations where everything appears to be accessible. The Alexandra Blossom Festival is a significant event in Queenstown in the early spring calendar. Early blossoms of the Southern Rata tree, a scarlet red flowering tree located predominantly on the West Coast of the South Island, may also be seen. The crimson color may completely transform the appearance of areas of New Zealand's natural rainforest areas, making it a famous tourist attraction.

Trip Cost: $2,023 one week trip

NEXT: Queensland: Guide To The 'Adventure Capital Of New Zealand' If You Only Have Three Days

The best places to visit in spring

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With its big blue skies and flowers in bloom, spring lifts the spirits of travellers all around the world. In fact, for many, there's no better time to travel. So, if you're thinking about getting away, here are our editors' picks of best places to visit in spring. Planning a British break? Discover the best UK places to visit in spring .

1. Osaka, Japan

2. alentejo, portugal, 3. new orleans, usa, 4. amsterdam, the netherlands, 5. the wye valley, wales, 6. the romantic road, germany, 7. cornwall, england, 8. the loire valley, france, 9. essaouira, morocco, 10. brittany, france, 11. dublin, ireland, 12. palermo, italy.

Spring in Japan is simply stunning, and the cherry on the cake is the annual hanami (cherry blossom) celebrations.

Head to Osaka in early April to see the city's castle rise high above a sea of petals, or walk through the Expo 70 Commemorative Park beneath a canopy of pink .There are plenty of reasons this blossom-rich beauty should be on your radar .

Editor's tip: to take in a host of Japan's wonders — from Tokyo to Osaka — check out our customisable Japan highlights trip

Where to stay:

Best for train station location: Ostay Shin-Osaka Hotel Apartment
Best for budget: Minn Juso

Find more accommodation options in Osaka

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April's cherry blossoms makes Osaka one of the best places to visit in spring © Shuttertong/Shutterstock

Portugal is enjoying a resurgence in popularity, with Lisbon and Porto leading the way. Cities aside, spring is a beautiful time of year for the Rota Vicentina, a network of walking trails on the west coast of Portugal’s Alentejo region.

There’s an inland route – the Historical Way – that passes through charming towns, or the sea-scraping Fishermen’s Trail.

Along the latter, cliff-top paths offer stunning ocean views, lined by aromatic shrubs and flowers. In the sky above, you might spot the odd huge silhouette — native storks should be returning from their winter holidays around now.

Editor's tip: relish the thought of fine food and world-class wine? You'll love our customisable Cuisine and Culture from Porto to Lisbon itinerary .

Best for modern stays: Vitoria Stone Hotel
Best for families: Reserva Alecrim EcoSuite & Glamping

Find more accommodation options in Alentejo

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Porto Covo beach in Alentejo, Portugal © Vitaly Fedotov/Shutterstock

Mardi Gras isn't the only reason to make a trip down to New Orleans . Louisiana’s capital is just as enchanting once carnival comes to an end.

Spend a day soaking up the faded beauty of the French Quarter’s backstreets in the sunshine. Then, head to Frenchmen Street in the Marigny for a night of live jazz and cocktails.

We also suggest spending a night on Frenchmen Street for Live Jazz, and taking a music-themed steamboat cruise that'll have you listening to cool jazz while you tuck into a delicious dinner.

Editor's tip: read our guide to where to stay in New Orleans , with some options highlighted below .

Best for classic New Orleans charm: The Mercantile Hotel
Best for comfort: NOPSI Hotel New Orleans

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One of the French Quarter's many beautiful buildings, New Orleans © Philmythen/Shutterstock

Amsterdam really comes to life from April onwards, as cafés and bars spread out over the cobbled streets. Tourist numbers are lower than in the summer months, too.

Get to know the city's ins and outs on a canal-boat ride, or take a trip to the unforgettable Keukenhof gardens. 25km out of town, tulips bloom in spectacular colours from late-March to mid-May in beautiful ornamental arrangements.

Editor's tip: interested in exploring beyond Amsterdam? Browse our customisable Netherlands itineraries for inspiration.

Best for inventive design: Hotel De Hallen
Best for attention to details: Hotel Estheréa

You might also want to read our guide to the best area to stay in Amsterdam .

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Keukenhof gardens © MarinaD_37 /Shutterstock

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Top 10 Spring Destinations Around the World

As winter loosens its icy grip, the world begins to awaken, and the magic of spring unfolds. This season of rebirth and renewal breathes new life into the landscape, as vibrant colors erupt and delicate blooms emerge. The air, filled with the sweet scent of blossoms, invites us to step outside and bask in the beauty of nature’s grand reawakening. It’s no wonder that springtime beckons travelers to explore and discover the world’s most enchanting destinations during this captivating time of year.

In curating this list of the best spring destinations in the world, we focused on locations that offer truly unique experiences, especially during the spring season. This isn’t a collection of places that are simply less crowded or more affordable during spring; instead, we’ve carefully handpicked destinations that shine their brightest during this time of renewal. With that in mind, prepare to be whisked away on a journey of discovery as we unveil the mesmerizing springtime wonders that await in these remarkable destinations across the globe.

1. Tokyo, Japan

Ah, springtime in Japan – a season that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The country’s love affair with cherry blossoms, or sakura, is so deeply ingrained in the culture that there’s even a specific word for it: hanami. Hanami, which literally means “watching blossoms,” is the cherished tradition of picnicking under a canopy of cherry blossoms, and it has captured the imagination of people around the world. There’s no better place to immerse yourself in the hanami experience than the bustling city of Tokyo.

Tokyo offers a plethora of picturesque spots for cherry blossom viewing, but there are three locales that stand out as the best of the best. First up is the serene oasis of Shinjuku Gyoen, a sprawling park where the blending of traditional Japanese, French, and English garden styles creates a truly captivating setting. With over a thousand cherry trees on display, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect spot for your hanami celebration. Next, head to the trendy neighborhood of Nakameguro, where the Meguro River is lined with more than 800 cherry trees, their delicate petals mirrored in the gentle flow of the water. As the sun sets, the illuminated blossoms cast an ethereal glow, making for a magical evening stroll. Finally, don’t miss Kitanomaru Park, nestled in the heart of the city, where you can wander through lush groves of cherry trees, their branches reaching out to touch the sky. History buffs will also appreciate the park’s location, as it’s surrounded by the majestic moat of the former Edo Castle.

When to go: Experiencing the cherry blossoms in Tokyo is all about timing, as the sakura season is fleeting, typically lasting just two weeks. The city’s cherry blossoms usually begin to bloom around late March, reaching their peak in early April. However, exact dates can vary depending on factors like temperature and weather conditions. To help you plan your visit and maximize your chances of witnessing the splendid pink and white spectacle, the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) offers a handy resource: their cherry blossom forecast website . With predictions for the current year’s blossoms across Japan, the site is a valuable tool for any hanami enthusiast.

Chidorigafuchi park in Tokyo during sakura season

2. Keukenhof, Netherlands

When you think of the Netherlands, it’s almost impossible not to envision fields upon fields of vibrant tulips swaying gently in the breeze. The country’s rich history and deep connection with these iconic flowers has made them an integral part of Dutch identity, and every spring, visitors from around the globe flock to witness the magnificent spectacle of color that unfolds across the landscape.

Keukenhof, nestled in the charming town of Lisse and just a short trip from Amsterdam, is the ultimate tulip paradise. This extraordinary park, fondly known as the Garden of Europe, boasts an astonishing 7 million tulips, creating a sea of color that stretches as far as the eye can see. Each year, Keukenhof adopts a unique theme, with gardeners meticulously planting the bulbs by hand every autumn to form an intricate, all-new design. This labor of love takes around three months to complete, but the result is a breathtaking tableau that will leave you absolutely spellbound. So, if you’re seeking an unforgettable springtime experience, be sure to add the mesmerizing world of Keukenhof to your must-visit list!

When to go: The park is open for a limited period each year, typically from late March to mid-May. Keep in mind that the exact dates can vary depending on the weather and blooming patterns. Before you embark on your tulip-filled adventure, it’s a smart move to check Keukenhof’s website for the most up-to-date information on the current year’s bloom.

3. Washington DC, USA

The mayor of Tokyo probably didn’t realize that his generous donation of 3,000 cherry trees to Washington DC back in 1912 would not only symbolize the blossoming friendship between the United States and Japan, but also give rise to one of the biggest and most beloved spring festivals in the US. Fast forward to today, and the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival has become a must-visit event for anyone seeking a magical springtime experience.

As you stroll along the Tidal Basin, prepare to be captivated by the delicate pink and white petals that create a dreamy, enchanting atmosphere throughout the city. Visitors and locals alike come together to celebrate this vibrant season, with a lively array of events like parades, concerts, and cultural performances that foster a sense of joy and unity. If you’re looking for a spring destination that beautifully marries breathtaking floral displays, historical significance, and international camaraderie, then Washington DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival should definitely be on your radar.

When to go: If you’re eager to catch the ethereal beauty of Washington DC’s cherry blossoms, timing is key. The National Cherry Blossom Festival usually unfolds from mid-March to mid-April, with the bloom peak often gracing the city around the end of March. But, as we all know, Mother Nature loves to keep us on our toes, and the exact timing can vary each year.

Fear not, blossom enthusiasts! The festival’s website has your back, with its nifty “Bloom Watch” feature ready to guide you. This handy tool keeps a close eye on the blossoms’ progress, providing day-by-day updates on the blooming stages. By following the “Bloom Watch,” you’ll be able to time your visit to perfection and ensure you’re in the heart of the action when the cherry blossoms are at their most dazzling.

4. Hitachi Seaside Park, Japan

Imagine yourself strolling through a seemingly endless sea of blue as the warm spring breeze gently caresses your face. Welcome to Hitachi Seaside Park in Japan, where the annual flowering spring event transforms the park into a living canvas of vibrant colors. It’s a sight that’ll make you feel like you’ve been whisked away into a dreamy watercolor painting. And while the captivating nemophila might be the star of the show, creating a mesmerizing ocean of baby blue, it’s not the only floral gem you’ll find here.

As you meander through the park, you’ll discover brilliant swathes of cheerful yellow daffodils dancing in the sunlight and be dazzled by the bold and beautiful tulips that seem to have their own personal spotlight. Each floral display adds another layer of wonder to this springtime extravaganza, making it the perfect escape for those looking to lose themselves in nature’s artistry.

When to go: Timing is everything when it comes to experiencing the full splendor of Hitachi Seaside Park. To catch the hypnotizing nemophila in all their glory, plan your visit sometime between mid-April and early May when these delicate blue blossoms are at their peak. If it’s the sunny smiles of daffodils you’re after, aim for a visit from late March to mid-April, as they eagerly usher in the spring season. And for a dose of tulip magic, you’ll want to drop by from mid- to late April when these vibrant stunners take center stage. To help you nail down the perfect time for your visit, the park’s website provides updates on the blossom progression, as well as peak bloom times from previous years.

Nemophila flowers at Hitachi Seaside Park

5. Seoul, South Korea

As spring unfurls its vibrant wings in Korea, the air fills with the sweet fragrance of forsythias, azaleas, and cherry blossoms. These delicate, colorful blooms are the heralds of the season, and Seoul offers an abundance of opportunities to witness them in all their glory. The city’s landscape comes to life as splashes of yellow, pink, and white adorn the streets and parks, inviting locals and visitors alike to revel in the beauty of springtime.

For an unforgettable forsythia experience, look no further than Eungbongsan Mountain, where the hillsides are blanketed with these golden blossoms. If it’s azaleas you seek, Wonmisan Mountain, located just a short distance from Seoul, offers a breathtaking display of these vibrant flowers. And when it comes to cherry blossoms, Seoul doesn’t disappoint. Seokchon Lake Park and Namsan Seoul Tower are just two of the many spots where the city’s cherry trees showcase their delicate pink blooms. Strolling through Seoul during spring is like wandering through a living work of art, with every turn revealing a new and captivating floral scene.

When to go: To fully immerse yourself in Seoul’s springtime splendor, timing your visit is crucial. Forsythias and azaleas typically take center stage from mid-March to early April, with their vibrant hues painting the city in a dazzling array of colors. The highly anticipated sakura season follows closely, usually about a week later, when delicate cherry blossoms transform Seoul’s streets and parks into a dreamy pink paradise.

Keep in mind that bloom times can vary from year to year, so it’s a good idea to check the official forecast for flower blooming , which provides an estimated timeline for the blossoming of these springtime stars. Alternatively, you can visit the “Visit Korea” website, where they offer information on various spring events and the best locations to enjoy each type of bloom.

6. Castelluccio, Italy

Castelluccio di Norcia is a quaint village perched high atop a hill in Italy’s Umbria region, boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding Sibillini Mountains. While the village itself is a sight to behold, the real magic happens every spring, when the vibrant natural phenomenon known as ‘La Fiorita’ takes center stage.

Envision a lush, vivid tapestry of colors unfolding right before your eyes, as millions of wildflowers bloom, painting the Piano Grande plateau in brilliant shades of red, yellow, and purple. ‘La Fiorita’ is like nature’s own fireworks display, and it’s a spectacle you won’t soon forget. Just a heads up – Castelluccio faced significant damage from an earthquake in 2016, but its resilient spirit has seen it rise again, standing tall and welcoming visitors.

When to go: When planning your trip to Castelluccio, timing is everything if you want to witness the spectacular ‘La Fiorita’ in all its glory. The best period to visit this enchanting village and experience the full bloom of wildflowers is typically between late May and early July. During these months, the Piano Grande plateau becomes a living masterpiece, with vibrant colors stretching as far as the eye can see. Keep in mind that the exact timing of the bloom can vary slightly each year, depending on weather conditions and seasonal patterns.

7. Skagit Valley, USA

A trip to Skagit Valley in Washington state is like stepping into a vibrant, living watercolor painting. As the warm embrace of spring wakes the earth from its winter slumber, this fertile pocket of land becomes awash with color. The Cascade Mountains stand tall around the valley, their snow-capped peaks drawing the eyes up from the dazzling display of blossoms below.

The Daffodil Festival sets the stage, transforming the valley into a golden ocean of swaying flowers, their bright faces grinning up at the sky. Here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a sea of yellow, as if the sun itself has kissed the ground. The air is filled with the sweet scent of daffodils, mingling with the hum of bees and laughter of visitors. But the show doesn’t stop there. When the daffodil party winds down, the Tulip Festival bursts into life. Rows upon rows of vibrant tulips unfurl their petals, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that dance together in the gentle breeze. It’s an experience that awakens the senses and leaves visitors with memories that are as vivid as the flowers themselves.

When to go: When planning your visit to Skagit Valley, timing is key to ensure you catch the floral festivities in all their glory. While the Daffodil Festival usually brightens up the landscape in March, followed by the Tulip Festival in April, it’s crucial to remember that these natural wonders follow their own rhythm. To be in sync with the blossoms’ grand appearance, it’s smart to check the park’s website for the most current information on bloom dates.

8. Hallerbos (Blue Forest), Belgium

Picture this: you’re strolling through a dreamy forest where a sea of bluebells stretches out as far as the eye can see, with sunlight filtering through the fresh green leaves, creating a fairy tale-like atmosphere. Welcome to Hallerbos, affectionately known as “The Blue Forest,” nestled just a stone’s throw away from Brussels, Belgium. This enchanting forest, once a natural border of the Roman Empire, transforms into a mesmerizing blue wonderland every spring, as if a luxurious blue carpet has been rolled out for Mother Nature herself. As you meander through the vibrant blue hues of Hallerbos, you’re not only stepping into a living fairy tale but also walking through a significant part of history that shaped the language barrier between Dutch-speaking Flanders and French-speaking Wallonia.

When to go: If you’re thinking of planning a trip to witness the captivating beauty of Hallerbos, timing is everything. While the exact flowering period of the bluebells can vary slightly from year to year, you can generally expect the magic to unfold during the second half of April. However, to make sure you don’t miss the prime moment, it’s a great idea to check the official Hallerbos Forest website for the most up-to-date information on the bluebell bloom.

9. Jerte Valley, Spain

Let’s transport you to a place where the hillsides appear to be draped in a snowy embrace, even though it’s springtime. Spain’s Jerte Valley is that very destination, where over two million cherry trees come to life, their white blossoms creating a stunning illusion of a winter wonderland. This breathtaking display attracts nature enthusiasts and photographers seeking to capture the ephemeral beauty of the valley.

As you explore this captivating landscape, you’ll also have the opportunity to indulge in the vibrant cherry blossom festival that takes place during this magical time. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you enjoy music, gastronomic delights, and other festivities that showcase the region’s rich heritage. If you’re yearning for a spring adventure that brings together the allure of flowers and the charm of snow, Jerte Valley is just the ticket.

When to go: Planning a visit to Jerte Valley requires a bit of precision, as the stunning cherry blossom display only graces the hillsides for about two weeks each year. Typically, the end of March and the beginning of April mark the prime time to witness this floral extravaganza, but of course, Mother Nature has the final say, and the timing can vary depending on the weather. To ensure you don’t miss out on this breathtaking experience, we recommend keeping a close eye on the festival’s website for this year’s specific dates.

10. Bonn, Germany

As spring arrives in Bonn, Germany , the city transforms into a wonderland of cherry blossoms, casting a rosy hue over its streets and historic sites. Heerstrasse, famously known as Cherry Blossom Avenue , is a captivating sight to behold. Here, you can meander beneath a canopy of delicate pink petals, while dappled sunlight dances on the cobblestone paths. The enchanting fragrance of blossoms fills the air, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a dreamlike world as petals create a soft pink carpet at your feet.

Of course, Bonn has more floral gems to offer beyond Heerstrasse. Head over to Breite Strasse, Maxstraße, and Bonner Münster, where the cherry blossoms continue to delight. The old town of Bonn boasts even more spots adorned with these delicate flowers, contributing to the city’s irresistible charm during this magical season. As you explore, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant history of the city, mingle with the locals at a cozy café, and simply let yourself be captivated by the dazzling displays of nature’s confetti.

When to go: It’s difficult to pinpoint the precise moment when Bonn’s cherry blossoms will burst into bloom, as their appearance can be influenced by various factors, such as temperature and rainfall. Generally, the middle of April is your best bet for catching these delicate flowers in their prime. Unlike Japan, where official cherry blossom forecasts are readily available, keeping tabs on the situation in Bonn might require a different approach.

One smart strategy is to monitor social media, particularly Instagram, where locals and visitors alike share their picturesque experiences in real-time. By following relevant hashtags or local accounts, you can get a sense of when the cherry blossoms have begun to emerge, helping you plan your visit accordingly.

Heerstrasse or Cherry Blossom Avenue in Bonn

Bonus: Provence, France

If you happen to miss the springtime blooms but still yearn for that magical feeling of nature’s awakening, we have a bonus destination for you. Lavender season in Provence is Europe’s captivating counterpart to Japan’s cherry blossom frenzy. As summer graces the region, endless rows of vibrant purple lavender stretch across the landscape, creating an idyllic, almost surreal setting that begs to be explored.

Nothing quite compares to the sensory delight of wandering through the French lavender fields, with the majestic Alps in the distance and the warmth of the sun caressing your skin. The Valensole Plateau, nestled in the heart of Provence, is the most popular spot to witness this floral spectacle. Here, the vast, fragrant fields stretch as far as the eye can see, offering countless opportunities to capture stunning photographs and create lifelong memories. So, if you’re looking for an alternative to the classic springtime experience, Provence and its mesmerizing lavender fields may be just the ticket.

When to go: In general, summer is the lavender season in Provence, with the fields reaching full bloom from the last week of June to mid-August. However, the specific timing can vary depending on the altitude of the terrain and weather conditions during the preceding months.

The Plateau of Valensole, with its lower altitude, tends to see its lavender bloom earlier than other fields in the region. As a result, the best time to witness the captivating purple hues in Valensole typically falls between mid-June and the first week of July.

The 20 Best Hot Springs Destinations in the World

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Few naturally occurring phenomena are as relaxing and rejuvenating as a hot spring. These geothermal features are a bit like nature's own hot tubs, often offering a soothing soaking in some surprisingly remote and beautiful locations. The U.S. has more than its fair share of amazing hot springs, to be sure, but there are plenty to be found in other parts of the world too. Here are our picks for 20 of the best ones to visit.

Takaragawa Onsen (Japan)

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Visitors to Japan's Takaragawa Onsen hot spring come for the promise of healing waters but stay for the majestic views. Located in a tranquil forest setting and surrounded by mountains, it is difficult not to feel one with nature while enjoying therapeutic waters. In a country that is well known for having more than its fair share of hot springs to enjoy, this is one of the top destinations for sure. To get the full experience, book a stay in the nearby hotel and soak up the culture.

Challis Hot Springs (Idaho)

Natural spring water bubbles up from the ground and seeps through gravel and river-rock bottoms to reach the two Challis Hot Springs pools located in Idaho. The temperature of the outside pool is regulated to be comfortable for swimming, while the temperature of the inside therapy pool is left entirely up to Mother Nature. Visitors can stay at the small bed and breakfast as well, which is comfortable and quaint. For a more rustic experience, camp on the banks of the Salmon River within walking distance of the springs.

The Blue Lagoon (Iceland)

Perhaps the most famous hot spring in the world, the Blue Lagoon in Iceland is as soothing as it is picturesque. The water temperature hovers between 98 and 102 degrees Fahrenheit at all times, making it an inviting place to take a dip. The mineral-rich waters are also good for the skin, while the warm vapors clear all manner of toxins from the body. If you're planning on visiting Iceland, a drop by this site is a must—it's as good for the soul as it is the body.

The Boiling River (Yellowstone National Park)

It is an easy, flat hike to the Boiling River in Yellowstone’s northwest corner, making this destination one that is easy to reach. The National Park Service allows soakers (clothed only) to enjoy the Boiling River during daylight hours. Every year, people use rocks to create pools along the river’s edge, where hot water from thermal features mixes with the cold water of the passing Gardner River, creating makeshift hot tubs.

While in the area, you can also visit the Mammoth Hot Springs for your viewing pleasure, as soaking is not allowed. If you’re not heading north in Yellowstone, check out the Firehole River in the south instead. While the Firehole does offer warm water and some rock-jumping opportunities, it is not as hot and soothing as the Boiling River, and accessing it can be more dangerous if the waters are moving fast.

Believe it or not, you can soak in hot springs in Yellowstone all year long, including the winter . There is no better way to beat the cold temperatures, and many consider it more relaxing at that time of year.

The Springs in Pagosa Springs (Colorado)

The 23 pools of The Springs form a terrace on the east bank of the San Juan River in Pagosa Springs, Colorado. Guests can tube downriver starting right at the hot springs or watch kayakers and rafters lazily bob by. If you need a break from the hot pools, which range from 83 to 114 degrees Fahrenheit, you can take a dip in the resort's icy river waters nearby. Besides being named the Guinness World Record's "World's Deepest Geothermal Hot Spring," The Springs offer plenty of unique features, such as a pool that can only be reached by taking a partially-submerged boardwalk across a pond populated by goldfish and lily pads.

Pamukkale (Turkey)

The hot springs in Pamukkale in Turkey offer 17 tiered pools of warm water for visitors to wade in. They're also located just below the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Hieropolis. With its pure white formations and steaming water, Pamukkale looks almost otherworldly while offering excellent views of nearby Denizli. With a constant water temperature of about 94 degrees, the hot springs can delight visitors while serving up both history and culture at the same time.

Chena Hot Springs Resort (Alaska)

Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a 106-degree Fahrenheit rock lake for visitors' soaking pleasure. Travel to this Alaska hot springs destination between August and April, and there is a chance you'll even see the Aurora Borealis while enjoying a dip in the soothing waters.

After a day in the springs, which are about 60 miles north of Fairbanks, step outside to witness this natural wonder, or enjoy it from one of several indoor viewing areas. Take time to tour the Aurora Ice Museum at Chena Hot Springs Resort, which is complete with colorful ice chandeliers and a two-story snowball fort.

Olympic Hot Springs (Washington)

Ben Amstutz / (CC BY-NC 2.0) / Flickr

Take the gentle 2.5-mile hike to the Olympic Hot Springs in Olympic National Park , for a completely natural experience. The journey starts at the Boulder Creek Trailhead and follows the creek to several hot springs pools. At one time this area was developed into a resort, which closed when the lease expired. Now, only the trail and springs remain. The National Park Service warns visitors that they bathe at their own risk at the hot springs, where the water quality is not monitored and nudity is common.

Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)

If you want to visit hot springs in an urban setting, Hot Springs National Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas, is the place for you. There are two ways to soak in these waters. You can take a traditional bath at the Buckstaff Baths, where you will soak by yourself in a tub, or you can enjoy the waters in a communal setting at the Quapaw Baths. Once you've dried off, tour the historic Fordyce Bathhouse, learn more about the history of the park and hot springs, and take a hike or a drive around the area.

Yangpachen Hot Springs (Tibet)

Nestled in the high peaks of the Himalayas, the Yangpachen Hot Springs in Tibet features incredibly hot water that must be cooled down before visitors can wade into them. At a scorching 158 degrees Fahrenheit, the natural hot springs are just too warm, so the temperature is reduced to more acceptable levels. Once you're in one of the three pools and enjoying the impressive view, you probably won't be in any hurry to get back out. Located at 14,764 feet and ringed by snow-covered peaks, the views are simply spectacular.

The Omni Homestead Resort (Virginia)

The western states aren't the only places you can enjoy a good hot springs in the U.S., as there are some destinations in the east that offer access as well. After a round of golf at the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia, you can take a dip in natural hot springs that flow onto the property from the Allegheny Mountains. Take your pick: Soak in the two-acre outdoor Allegheny Springs or in the indoor Jefferson Pools, where Thomas Jefferson purportedly visited back in 1818.

Terme di Saturnia (Italy)

Atlantide Phototravel / Getty Images

As if the wonderful food, wine, and culture in Italy wasn't already enough, the country is also home to one of the best hot springs in the world in the form of Terme di Saturnia. Located in the south of Tuscany, these hot springs reach temperatures of up to 99 degrees Fahrenheit, making them warm and inviting no matter the temperature of the air. They were a favorite amongst Romans more than 2,000 years ago and remain popular with locals and visitors alike today. It doesn't hurt that they also happen to be free of charge.

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa (New Mexico)

Discovered by Spaniards in the 1500s, the waters of Ojo Caliente, New Mexico, are now divided into multiple pools around the property. Soak in one of the communal pools, and reserve a private outdoor bath for yourself or for a group of friends. Guests who stay onsite have additional access to the Kiva pool, too, expanding their options further.

Leave time to dip into the mud pool as well. They'll allow you to release toxins from your pores by covering yourself in a special blend of clay and letting it dry. Then, rinse off, and get back in the hot springs again.

Uunartoq Island (Greenland)

Geothermal features can be found all over Greenland , but not all of them offer great places for visitors to soak in hot springs. This isn't the case on Uunartoq Island, where many of the pools offer temperatures that range from 90-100 degrees Fahrenheit. The long winters of Greenland become much more bearable thanks to these natural hot tubs, which are incredibly enchanting when surrounded by fresh powder and with snow falling from the sky.

Hot Springs Resort and Spa (North Carolina)

Located in the mountains of North Carolina, the 100-acre Hot Springs Resort and Spa features multiple Jacuzzi-style tubs along the banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River. Hot mineral waters are pumped into the pools, and they are drained and cleaned after each use. This hot springs is right along the Appalachian Trail, so you can really earn your soak by taking a long hike first.

Chico Hot Springs Resort (Montana)

Courtesy of Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa

Located an hour outside Boseman, Montana, Chico Hot Springs Resort offers a host of great accommodations for visitors ranging from standard hotel rooms all the way up to romantic cottages. The resort also has an amazing restaurant too, but the real draw is the hot springs, of course. The resort has two different pools on-site, with the larger of them averaging 96 degrees Fahrenheit and the smaller one reaching 103 degrees F. Admission to both pools is included with your stay.

Reykjadalur Valley (Iceland)

The Blue Lagoon isn't the only place in Iceland where travelers can enjoy a dip in a lovely hot springs. Reykjadalur Valley (aka the Steam Valley) is another spectacular place to enjoy these natural wonders. The heated river itself is only part of the charm, as the idyllic landscape that surrounds it will leave you feeling like you've stepped back in time to a place that is far from the hustle and bustle of modern life. There are so many "hot spots" to choose from, chances are you won't have to share with another person. Just take the plunge and enjoy everything that this place has to offer.

Khir Ganga (India)

Visitors have to work a bit to reach the soothing waters of Khir Ganga in India. It is a three- to four-hour hike just to reach the meadow where the hot springs are located, but it is definitely worth the effort. Once there, travelers can soak their aching muscles in a manmade pool while taking in spectacular views of the Himalayan Mountains that surround this amazing place. Khir Ganga has been revered by locals for centuries for its healing powers, and even now, it continues to lure those looking for relief from a variety of aches and pains.

Termas de Puritama (Chile)

The Atacama Desert in northern Chile may be the driest place on the planet, but it is still home to some wonderful hot springs. The Termas de Puritama have reportedly been used by the indigenous people for centuries to help soothe all manner of aches and ailments. With eight pools to soak in, the hot springs are a surprising find in this vast desert region. Even more so since they sit at 11,400 feet above sea level and offer a constant temperature of 91 degrees Fahrenheit. If there is an oasis to be found in the Atacama, this just might be it.

Deception Island (Southern Ocean)

Located deep in the Southern Ocean, Deception Island might be the most remote hot spring on the planet. Beneath the island sits an active volcano that creates plenty of geothermal activity, including heating up pools of water, which offer some respite from the cold temperatures. Visitors can soak in these waters while viewing large glaciers and icebergs nearby.

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Top 10 Countries to Visit in Spring

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Spring is one of the best times to visit a new country. It isn’t too hot or cold, and you get to experience everything a city has to offer without bad weather ruining everything. While there are dozens of places you can go to in springs, there are certainly a few standouts.

If you want to go on a holiday to celebrate Spring, or simply want to enjoy the best a country has to offer, here are the best 10 places to visit during Spring months.

Italy

Italy is easily one of the best holiday destinations no matter the time of year, but Spring is undoubtedly the best season to visit. The fields are green, the orchards and plants are blossoming, and cool breezes complement the warm sun.

Whether you spend it in the cities of Rome, Florence or Naples, on the beach, or in the vast countryside, everywhere is perfect for a holiday this time of year.

Much like Italy, France in Spring is almost like a postcard, and its one of the most recommended country to visit in Spring. A holiday on the French coast is hard to match anywhere else on earth. If you are feeling a bit glamorous, a weekend in Monaco is the place to be.

Considering how cold somewhere like France can get and how hot the Summer can be, going a bit earlier is the perfect time to visit the City of Love .

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Greece .

Unlike most of Europe, Greece doesn’t suffer from bitterly cold Winters or scorching Summer. With a relatively temperate climate all year round, Spring is usually a quieter time compared to Summer.

The Greek islands of Santorini, Crete, Corfu, and Naxos are all favored tourist hubs, but there are also a number of smaller, quieter islands you can visit if you want a relaxed week or two away from the hustle and bustle.

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Mexico is a popular tourist hotspot for those from across the United States. It is very cheap, has tons of delicious food, and has a rich culture that is on display everywhere you go. Summer can see it get too hot for non-locals, so the months before that are preferred for visitors from Europe.

Mexico is also one of the best starting points for traveling into Latin America or a great way to end off a holiday in the States. Cancun is one of the most popular spots; not only is it beautiful, but it is incredibly budget-friendly

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United kingdom .

The United Kingdom is known for a number of things, with terrible weather, unfortunately, being one of them. If you want to avoid the 30+ degree Summers, or the constant rain and snow, the Spring months are for you.

Even wetter and colder parts such as Scotland enjoy some of the best weather of the year during this time. It also allows for many activities that are almost unpleasant any other time of year, like hiking, walks, and weekends away on the coast.

Like most other Asian countries, Japan can have very extreme weather patterns, with the monsoon season being a time to avoid a holiday there. However, the season of blossoms falls a few months before the rainy season and is possibly the best time to visit the country.

The cherry blossoms will be in bloom, the weather is perfect for a day at the beach, and it isn’t too hot for a few adventures in the country and mountains in the south of the island.

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Thailand

Thailand is one of the most popular holiday spots in the world, and it isn’t hard to see why. The cheap cost of living allows you to live like royalty no matter your budget, with everything from food to entertainment being almost unbelievably cheap.

Cities such as Krabi, Pattaya, and Phuket are all on magical islands that have some of the clearest water you will ever see and the softest and sandiest beaches. Thailand is perfect for a week away, a honeymoon, or just having fun for a couple of weeks.

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South africa.

South Africa is a favored destination for those from the States and Europe. The strong Dollar, Euro, and Pound mean almost everything is cheap, and you can stay in the best hotel and eat the best food for a reasonable price.

Considering how hot and busy the Summer can be, visiting this country in Spring gives you all the benefits of the good weather, without the hundreds of thousands of other tourists.

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Best Places to Visit in the World in Spring

Spring is the season of fertility, the season of ice sheets cracking to give rise to the first blooms of nature. Since time immemorial, the season of spring has been celebrated by various cultures and civilisations; from the Beltane Festival of Scotland to Sakura in Japan, Basant Panchami in India to Cherry Blossom in Turkey - Spring is a time of happiness and cheer and flowers and nature. Then how is it that the heart wouldn’t crave some globetrotting, some vacation, some culture sighting this time around?

What’s even more exciting about spring travel is the fact that it is a shoulder season in most European and Asian countries, thereby ensuring that you get good deals and discounts on things from food to accommodation to flight tickets. So what are you waiting for? We have a list here for your holiday itinerary, layered with blooming tulip fields of Netherlands and cherry blossom lanes of Japan, Italy ’s Amalfi Coast and Dubai ’s shopping fest. Come, read on!

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

It is believed that Amsterdam is a year round destination, which is truer than true. But what is hidden among those travel brochures and un-solicited advices is the fact that Amsterdam is even more beautiful and even less crowded in the months from April to June, when spring is upon its canal-clad lands. The tulips come to full bloom and you can spend your mornings in the many museums, followed by bike rides to windmill farms and tulip gardens in the afternoons. The temperature is at its best, not too cold but neither too warm. You will need light woollens. But that’s it. Also, do not miss the annual King’s Day Parade or Koningsdag on the last Saturday of April!

Tokyo, Japan

Spring in this Japanese capital is all about white and pink cherry blossoms arcing the boughs of trees, deserts of cream and cakes that are light and airy, sceneries so beautiful that you will never get enough photographs, and weather so amazing that your body and soul will find blessed peace. When in Tokyo for spring season, make sure to visit all the usual sights like Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Senso-ji and Tokyo Skytree in addition to 'sakura' gardens, the special places of public commune where the people of Japan come together and celebrate the season of sakura or cherry blossom with special treats of deserts, snacks and songs. Go for hanami, which means ‘looking at flowers’ and celebrate with their delicious teas and fluffy cakes.

Oman: Best Places to Visit in the World in Spring

Oman has some hot summers and excruciating dry and cold winters. Spring season though, is all about blooms bursting in the dryness and damask roses coming to life around Jebel Akhdar. Farms and orchards (yes, Oman is not all desert) burst with pink shrubs and perfume manufacturing is at its peak. This is one of the best times to visit Oman to explore its perfumeries, date farms, enjoy the mild nip left over in the air by winter and roam around cities like Muscat and Salalah.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Italian Coast of Amalfi is beauty personified. What with its bending meandering roads and small villages dotting the passes, the sea tumbling past the shore all pristine aqua and white, while the sky is a bright Cobalt. No postcard could be better than the orange orchards in valleys and jasmine blooms on idle pastel-coloured balconies. If a place could be lyrical, Amalfi would be it during the spring months from April to June. May is the best time to be around as the weather is warm, the sea welcoming for water sports and fruit and flowers ripe for the picking.

San Diego, California

Well, for most geeks out there, San Diego is largely synonymous with Comic Con. One of the best showcases of Comic Con, in fact. But what most travel gurus don’t tell you is that San Diego is one of the finest destinations in America for beaches and spring fun. From a heavily influenced Mexican cuisine to caves by the sea that are explored in groups, from the bright pink drinks that are so lethal you may be hungover for a whole year to amazing zoos, parks and aqua world parks; San Diego is perfect for a spring vacation by the Pacific.

Maldives: Best Places to Visit in the World in Spring

April-May is the best time out of the amazing year-round span to holiday in Maldives . Why? Because this is your last chance for a perfect than perfection tropical holiday here as by June the summer sets in. The cluster of islands that is Maldives, rests easy in the Indian Ocean, and makes for a very coveted honeymoon as well as couple’s destination. With its beaches, sapphire waters, lagoons and islands, this country is everything a beach baby would want. And spring time is the best time the said baby could grab it!

Greece: Best Places to Visit in the World in Spring

Greece is a paradise for lovers of beaches, islands, heritage, Roman remains and everything that deals with mythology. What’s more attractive in this country than all the above is its food. Moussaka and crisp salads of the best cucumbers, red onions, tomatoes and feta, pastas, olives, cheeses and of course, the legendary Greek yogurt. And when is the best time to enjoy all of this? Spring of course. Though summer is the assigned high tourist season here, the months from March to June are the shoulder season and ensure you have the best time in places like Crete , Santorini , Athens and Mykonos without having to shell out an exorbitant amount.

Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen , the capital of Denmark , is usually best visited in its happy glorious summer just like its neighbouring Nordic countries. But spring is also a hidden treasure of time to explore this city. If you visit Copenhagen in March or April then you will find yourself protected from the winter chill of North, at ease with the mild warmth and get tables at the best cafes and restaurants that you otherwise wouldn’t in the high season. The famed liquorice festival of Denmark also falls in March end (24th-25th), so you also get to enjoy this weird sweet & salty treat with the rest of the Danes. And keeping in tandem with countries like Japan and Turkey , Denmark also sees a blooming burst of pink blooms, making everything more attractive than it already is.

Dubai, UAE: Best Places to Visit in the World in Spring

Did anyone say shopping? My bad, I heard Dubai . Because hey, aren’t they one and the same? Especially in the spring months from January-February to March, when Dubai hosts one of the biggest shopping festivals of the world. While the weather is perfect and restaurants and cafes all decked up to welcome tourists, it is the shopping fest here that should be your target for a spring break. The Dubai Mall hosts one of the craziest month-long sales and you get massive deals on everything from apparel to brands, gadgets to homeware. The Dubai Food Festival and Dubai International Kite Fest also follow and you basically get bonus things to do here in addition to the usual Burj Khalifa and desert safaris.

Glasgow, Scotland

Make no mistake, Scotland is going to be cold. And wet. Even in spring. Yes, that’s the beast of the business here. You can’t predict a dry, rain-less day even on a bright summer morning. But what makes spring stupendous in Glasgow is the cultural extravaganza that this city puts forward for incoming tourists. From the National Theatre of Scotland opening its first shows of the year for Scottish Ballet and Opera to the museums and galleries having special exhibitions, the months of March to May are exceptional if you want to do a budget holiday in the city. The temperatures may be a little on the colder side but you get to wear all your warm-gear and style up with boots and coats! Also, April is the time for Beltane, Scotland’s pagan festival to worship the sun.

Morocco: Best Places to Visit in the World in Spring

This Arab nation welcomes visitors almost all year round, even in summer. But winter and spring are decidedly the most beautiful seasons to visit Morocco. Yes, temperature-wise the country is merciful on weary souls in spring, with a nice 12-24°C range for the start and end of season. You can go hiking in the sand dunes, put up camps and take camel safaris, go explore the souks of Marrakech and Casablanca, pray at quaint mosques and see blue houses.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires, a Southern Hemisphere city of Argentina, sees the season of spring between October and December. This time of the year is specially worth visiting for the blooming jacaranda trees, that turn the green of Buenos Aires to bright purple. The spring temperatures are between 13-22°C and you won’t need anything more than a light sweater after evening. Places like Casa Rosada, La Boca and Plaza de Mayo look stunning in the mid-day sun, while the bloom of lavender trees imparts an otherworldly charm to this city in spring. The Tribeca Film Festival, Nuestros Caballos and BAFICI are some spring culture fests around.

French Riviera

The French Riviera in the South of France is a stretch of extravagant beaches, golden sands, a beaming sun and luxurious resort towns that cater to the rich and famous of the world. Cannes welcomes the glitz and glamor of the world for its annual Cannes Film Festival in summer, while Saint Tropez is all about pristine beaches and spas and high street shopping. Nice is great for long walks on the English promenade and food that melts in the mouth, while Monaco for its world-class casinos and the Grand Prix. Now, you’d be wondering if all of this is affordable for the average human? Well, yes it is. In the just off-season of spring, when the riches of summer haven’t descended yet. March to June are the best and cheapest months to trail along the Mediterranean coast of the French Riviera. Do not miss it.

Glacier Bay, Alaska

Alaska , the northern-most state of USA, is a place renowned for its glaciers and midnight suns, frozen seas and whales jumping out of bays. Spring season is the best to see the thawing snow and spot whales in national parks like Juneau. The grey whales come back home by April-end while humpbacks, minkes and harbor seals return in May to this Alaskan bay. This is the best time to go for whale cruises as the seas have melted enough to allow safe passage. The days are longer than usual but not to the point of 20 and 22 hour sunlight yet. So you can get the best of both worlds, enjoy the nature that's not all snow or sunshine either, and see marine life that will take your breath away.

Sicily: Best Places to Visit in the World in Spring

Sicily is adoringly referred to as the ‘boot’ of Italy as it lies on the southern end of the country. The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily has a culture slightly unique as it differs from the Italian. There is a seamless blend of Greek, Roman and Italian here, and you will find yourself swooning with all the churches, byzantine buildings, Mosaic artworks and the mighty volcanic Mount Etna. Spring season in Sicily is the most useful for a tour as the weather is sunny and warm, while the rates are heavily discounted. Tourists don’t crowd every nook and cranny and you get to have most sights to yourself in peace.

Nepal: Best Places to Visit in the World in Spring

Nepal in spring season is blooming with rhododendrons in the meadows of Himalayas. Also, in Nepal, Gautam Buddha’s birthday is celebrated on the full moon of May every year, making this time of the year extra special. You will experience cultural festivities wherever you go and nature will only shower you with great weather and loads of flowers and blooming trees welcoming you. The trekking routes are rife with carpets of green and most hikes open up again after a frozen winter. Adventure sports are at their best and the Hindu temples celebrate festivals like Basant Panchami and Holi. The average low of 22°C and high of 30°C ensures that you are very well taken care of.

Istanbul, Turkey

Bahar Geldi! Spring has arrived. This season is a real celebration of love, life and fertility in Turkey as the harsh winter is broken by nature’s warm fingers. Istanbul particularly sees a burst of sunshine along with joy as locals shed their coats and mufflers for stylish warm dresses, shirts and jeans, while the tulips around Hagia Sofia bloom golden yellow and blood red. The parks become lush, seafronts and promenades thaw with gulls coming home again and the neighbourhood streets come alive with food, dancing and music. The special treat of Istanbul is the blooming Judas trees, all pinks and lavenders, canopying lanes and adorning mosque courtyards. 18-22°C is your average for these months.

Bonn, Germany

Straddling River Rhine, Bonn is a beautiful city in Germany . It is known for many things, for being the birthplace of Beethoven and housing museums and houses in his honour, to being the hub of some extravagant churches and palaces along with World War II museums. What makes Bonn a special place for spring holiday is its newly minted cherry blossom festival, inspired by the Sakura season of Japan. This city also sees bright pink blooms in spring months from March to May. The cities of Düsseldorf and Cologne nearby also embrace spring time with open arms and celebrate the blooms with their own patent culture, song, dance and food. Walk through tunnels, go to old towns, and enjoy with the locals when in Bonn for spring.

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20 Incredible Spring Celebrations Around the World

Girl throwing her head back and laughing, covered in colored powder during the festival of Holi.

Spring is a magical time of the year, when the cycles of birth and regrowth begin , and the world comes back to life. Countries and cultures around the world have been celebrating the emergence of spring since ancient times, each partaking in their own rites and rituals. From flower festivals to scrambled egg parties, water fights to fire rituals, these spring celebrations around the world are sure to inspire your appreciation of the season .

Table of Contents

20 Spring Festivals & Celebrations Around the World

20 Incredible Spring Celebrations around the world!

Wildflower Bloom – California, USA

Spring wildflower bloom in California is spectacular and widely anticipated by visitors and residents alike. In a good bloom year, wildflowers in multiple colors carpet landscapes across the state , from the floor of the desert in Southern California to the hills of the Sierra Nevada. It’s one of the most beautiful spring events around the world.

Wildflower bloom in California starts in late February and persists into the early summer. Poppies, daisies, Indian paintbrush, and lupines can be commonly seen.

One of the best places to view wildflower bloom in California is Carrizo Plain National Monument , in the central plains. You can drive the main road through the monument to take in the stunning views of yellow and purple as far as the eye can see.

Driving is the best way to get to Carrizo Plain National Monument. You can drive up in under two hours from LA. From San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast, the drive is about an hour. Bring your camera, so you can take lots of beautiful photos!

Holi – India

No trip to India is complete without visiting and falling in love with the “ colors of Rajasthan ”. But Holi is an extra special day to visit Rajasthan and most of northern India. Each spring, people in India celebrate Holi, the Festival of Colors . This may very well be the most well-known spring celebration around the world.

During Holi, everyone is extremely happy and excited with the arrival of spring . People come out into streets and neighborhoods. Everyone brings loads of bright colors and a festive cheer. Everyone applies colors to each other in a fun spirit.

Some people play only with dry colors but most people use with water colors. They fill water pistons with colored water and shoot at each other. Some don’t bother with pistons but dump buckets of colors, others simply dunk their friends in pools of colorful water. During Holi, many neighborhoods and group events play fun music and everyone dances as a group.

Holi is a lot of fun and laughter. It’s a must-have experience, whether in India or any other place in the world which celebrates Holi.

Maslenitsa – Russia

Large crowd gathered around a Maslenitsa doll in Russia during the annual spring Maslenitsa festival.

With the long and harsh winters in Russia, it is no surprise that locals greet the arrival of spring with much joy throughout the country. Although it is now linked to the fasting period before Orthodox Easter, its origins lie in Pagan traditions. In fact, it’s one of the oldest Slavic folk holidays celebrated today . Many elements from ancient mythology are still present in its celebration.

Maslenitsa is a major holiday in places like Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Before the fasting period starts there is one more chance to indulge oneself in delicious foods, most of all pancakes. Everywhere in the country Maslenitsa fairs are popping up. Here, you can buy fresh baked goods and play traditional games, such as sleigh riding and snow ball fights. It ends with the burning of lady Maslenitsa in a huge bonfire .

The best places to see the Maslenitsa festivities are the bigger cities like Moscow or Saint Petersburg . Saint Petersburg, with its royal and elegant architecture, is particularly scenic.

Most palace gardens in and outside of the city will open up to the public with Maslenitsa fairs full of joyful activities and, of course, lots of pancakes. Maslenitsa is a beautiful spring holiday (despite all of the snow still on the ground!).

Canadian Tulip Festival – Canada

Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa, Canda, an annual spring event.

The Canadian Tulip Festival, held in the country’s capital city of Ottawa, holds the title to be the largest in the world . The festival lasts ten days in May, and events are scheduled throughout. Over 100,000 bulbs were gifted to Ottawa in 1945 by the Dutch royal family. It was their gesture of gratitude for keeping their princess and her daughters safe during the war, as well as, the role Canadian troops played in the liberation of the Netherlands.

Every year thereafter, the Netherlands keeps the tradition alive by sending 20,000 tulip bulbs to Ottawa. That gift is known as the ‘ Tulip Legacy ’ and those tulips have now increased to more than one million. The Canadian Tulip Festival has been celebrating this spring flower, an international symbol of friendship and peace , since 1953.

From downtown Ottawa , you can easily explore many of the multi-colored tulip beds on foot. The beautiful displays have been planted in and around the city’s main attractions . From Parliament Hill to Major’s Hill Park to National Gallery of Canada to Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. Head to Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and rent a bike to ride along the scenic waterfront.

Commissioner’s Park is a must-see. With over 300,000 tulips, all within a one-kilometer path, there are endless varieties planted every year. Festivities at this 10-day event include entertainment, historical presentations, public art displays, fireworks and so much more. Given its size and the amount of flowers, this is one spring celebration you don’t want to miss.

Keukenhof – The Netherlands

Keukenhof is the top destination in the Netherlands to admire tulips in bloom each spring. Affectionately called ‘ the Garden of Europe ,’ Keukenhof is one of the most-visited cultivated gardens on Earth. Here, visitors can enjoy more than 7 million planted flowers and 32 hectares of grounds to wander.

Situated in Lisse, visiting Keukenhof is easily accessible from Amsterdam or Leiden. If taking public transit, purchase a Combiticket, which includes a ticket to the garden as well as bus tickets.

Keukenhof has impeccably landscaped gardens, serpentine paths, ponds and streams, as well as pavilions that display elaborate floral arrangements. Keukenhof has restaurants and eateries on-site, but you’ll be better off grabbing some Dutch treats and a bottle of wine or a couple of beers and finding a grassy area in the park to picnic.

To comply with COVID regulations, you must reserve your ticket to Keukenhof online . In-person purchases will not be permitted, since you will be given a designated time slot in order to prevent overcrowding. If you need, you can change your time slot in advance (at least seven days).

If you’re based in the capital of the Netherlands, be sure to check out the Amsterdam Tulip Museum while you’re there, one of the best museums in Amsterdam !

Versailles Fountain Show – France

With the arrival of spring, the Versailles Estate gets ready for one of the season’s most beautiful events: the Versailles Fountains Show.

The French-style gardens of Versailles are decorated with beautiful fountains and other water games. During the winter, Versailles’ fountains do not work, and some of the groves are closed to the public. Starting on 1 April, all the groves are open, making it possible to admire the fountains of Versailles in all their splendor and marking the start of spring.

During the show, visitors can stroll around Versailles’ gardens to admire the fountains of Versailles spouting water at the sound of Baroque music . Imagine you are at one of Louis XVI lavish parties as you encounter actors wandering the grounds in period costume.

The Versailles gardens host different shows, but only the Versailles Fountain Show has the fountains working. The Versailles Fountain Show takes place on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Be sure to check the schedule beforehand. You must have an entrance ticket to access the gardens. It is possible to reach Versailles by train from Paris or on a guided tour.

Cherry Blossom Festival – South Korea

Annual cherry blossom festival in South Korea, a path lined with cherry blossom trees. A sight to behold each spring.

The Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae, South Korea is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in the world. Every spring, thousands of cherry trees bloom gorgeous little pink flowers. The colors and aromas that fill the town make you feel like you’re in another world. South Korea is often overlooked as a cherry blossom destination in favor of the more popular Japan. However, the Cherry Blossom Festival in Jinhae is still one of the most beautiful spring celebrations in the world.

The festival in Jinhae is the most popular festival in all of Korea. Hundreds of thousands of people come each year to enjoy the cherry trees. It actually started as a memorial service to honor a famous Korean naval admiral who defeated Japan in an invasion attempt in the 1500s. Jinhae is home to the Korean Navy so there are many different events that take place during the festival to celebrate the Korean Military.

The festival takes place over a week and has different events each night , such as fireworks, a light show, parades, and air shows. Besides the different events, you can just walk around during the day enjoying the trees, grab some delicious Korean street food, and take pictures to your heart’s content.

Depending on where you are in Korea (and if you have your own car or not) will change how you get to the festival. You can take an intercity bus from larger cities within Korea directly to Jinhae. If you’d like to explore more of Korea while you’re in the area, Busan is only an hour away from Jinhae and has many different things to do!

Feria de Abril – Spain

Contribution: Linn, Brainy Backpackers

Spain is famous for its Fiestas and celebrations around the country, especially the southern region of Andalusia. So where better to take part in the festivities than in Andalusia’s capital city, Seville.

The Feria de Abril finds place each year, two weeks after the massive Easter celebration, Semana Santa. Locals in Seville usually take the whole week of Feria celebrations off work to party into the nights, wear colorful flamenco dresses, dance Sevillana to traditional Spanish live music in the different Casetas , temporarily built houses/tents.

Each Caseta is either privately owned by families or companies and you need tickets to get into most of them. These have to be bought up front and it’s pretty much just employees, friends and family of the Caseta that can buy tickets. It’s very much a local event, where it’s best to know someone.

But don’t worry, if you’re traveling and don’t know anyone, there are a few public Casetas where anyone can enter without tickets so everyone can enjoy the Feria.

The whole area is made up of different streets with Casetas on one side and a huge fairground on the other. In the daytime, horses with colorful carriages filled with families in Flamenco dresses will fill the Feria streets.

If you look for other things to fill your Seville itinerary with during the days, make sure you head to Plaza de España and spend time in the city center to see the cathedral, Giralda, and the Alcazar.

Chilam Joshi – Pakistan

One of the most interesting spring celebrations in the world is Chilam Joshi, which takes place in a remote valley in Northern Pakistan. Chilam Joshi is the annual spring celebration of the Kalash people , a small minority that lives in the Kalash Valleys in Pakistan’s KPK province.

Though the vast majority of Pakistanis are Muslim, most Kalash practice their own ancient religion. They also speak their own language that is distinct from others in the region.

Chilam Joshi takes place each May and is one of the most interesting events that you can add to your Pakistan itinerary . The four-day festival celebrates the beginning of the harvest after a long winter, and locals offer prayers and milk before celebrating. Days are spent dancing and drinking homemade mulberry wine! The festival is also an opportunity for young people to meet a potential spouse.

The easiest way to reach Rumbur Valley (where the festival begins) is to first make your way to Chitral. Chitral is a small city that is accessible by bus from many other places in Pakistan, including the capital Islamabad. After you reach Chitral, you can find a local minivan (cheapest) to get to Rumbur. The ride is slightly bumpy and takes about 4 hours. If local transport isn’t your thing, you can also hire a private driver for a significantly more expensive fee.

Lavender Bloom – France

Spring marks the start of a wonderful event in Provence, France. It’s a time of the year that many French residents look forward to as the winter cold drifts away and the fresh, warmer air of spring takes its place. It’s also a well-known season for flora, where a variety of wildflowers in the region of Provence begin to bloom. From the brilliant colors and aromas of different types of herbs, peonies, blossoms, and of course, Provence’s biggest attraction, the lavenders – people from around the world come to witness this wonder .

There are many places to see lavender fields in France , but the best for viewing during spring are in Valensole and Luberon. The most convenient way to get to these areas would be to drive as there are literally fields and fields of these flowers all over. If driving is not possible, there are also tours available from Avignon, Nice, and Marseille.

While not a celebration or festival per se, the annual lavender bloom in Provence is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful spring events in the world.

Cinco de Mayo – Mexico

Cinco de Mayo (May 5) is a Mexican holiday that commemorates the Battle of Puebla , and Mexico’s victory over France in the Franco-Mexican War. The Mexicans were greatly outnumbered with limited provisions, yet after a day’s worth of fighting, the French surrendered. While it wasn’t a major victory in the war, the Battle of Puebla raised spirits and strengthened the resistance.

While the holiday is not largely celebrated in Mexico outside of Puebla, there are still military parades, reenactments, and other festivities. Cinco de Mayo is not a federal holiday, and most businesses remain open.

It’s safe to say that Cinco de Mayo is more widely celebrated by its northern neighbor, the United States. In the States, the holiday has evolved into a day of binging tacos and tequila, donning sombreros, and commemorating Mexican culture.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival – Washington, USA

The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the largest tulip festivals in the United States and, by far, the largest in the state of Washington. Each spring, the festival attracts over one million visitors to see millions of colorful tulips burst into bloom. The event takes place in and around the small town of Mount Vernon, Washington- about 60 miles north of Seattle – every April.

The festival’s origins started over 100 years ago when an English settler took interest in growing tulips due to the nutrient-rich soil in the Puget Sound region. After seeing his success with the flowers, other farmers started to plant the bulbs as well. By the 1980s, thousands of people started flocking to Mount Vernon in the spring to see the vibrant flowers. In 1984, the Mount Vernon Chamber of Commerce established the inaugural Skagit Valley Tulip Festival. The event has grown every year since and now includes street fairs, art shows, and sporting events .

While you’re in the Skagit Valley region, you may also consider planning a trip to the nearby Orcas Islands for spectacular whale-watching opportunities and exploring the islands’ old-growth forests by bike or on foot. Alternatively, you can continue heading north to the quaint town of Bellingham, the northernmost city in the contiguous United States for spectacular hiking trails and craft cideries.

Songkran – Thailand

Water fight during Thailand's annual spring Songkran festival

Songkran is the most well-known spring celebration in Thailand. It marks the celebration of the traditional Thai New Year , which is when the sun transitions from Pisces to Aries. The festival takes place every spring from April 13-15, and is best known for its jovial water fights.

The first day of the spring celebration is called Songkran Day , and entails buoyant and lively festivities with processions of Buddhist depictions. This is also the day when Thai people clean their homes in anticipation of the new year. This is the day when the water festivities really begin.

The second day of the festival is called Wan Nao , which is the equivalent of Thai New Year’s Eve. On Wan Nao, many Thai people will visit their Buddhist temples to create epic sand castle-like structures depicting Buddhist temples (called sand chedis ).

The final day of the spring celebration is April 15th, which is Thai New Year’s Day. This is the last day of festivities, and many locals will give up offerings to their local temples to start the New Year and ring in a season of spring and new beginnings .

Songkran is hugely popular with tourists visiting Thailand, and many people visit the country specifically to take part in the celebrations. If you plan on visiting during Songkran, prepare to get soaked ! Between water guns, buckets of water being thrown, water balloons and other creative means, you will certainly get wet – but that’s (at least) half the fun!

Cimburijada – Bosnia

People gathered around a large pot of eggs during Bosnia's annual spring Cimburijada festival.

Cimburijada is one of the most incredible (and quirky) spring celebrations in the world. It is celebrated in the city of Zenica on March 21, in Bosnia, to commemorate the start of spring. How is it celebrated? Why, by making a huge pot of scrambled eggs , obviously.

Zenica locals gather in a huge field to set up tents and join in the festivities together. An enormous pot (cimbur) of scrambled eggs is cooked – it’s enough for the entire town to enjoy breakfast – 1,500 eggs ! The entire community joins in the cooking (and eating) of the scrambled eggs.

Some locals will take a dip in the river for a ‘cleanse’ before the start of the new season.

Carnival of Cádiz – Spain

The Carnival of Cádiz is the biggest festival on mainland Spain. Over the span of ten days, the city comes alive with street processions, concerts and an engrossing carnival atmosphere. The festival has been designated as a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest of Spain ; an honor bestowed on the most important cultural events in the country, so it’s no wonder the Carnival of Cádiz is one of the most popular spring celebrations in the world.

As a major port in the 16th Century, Cádiz copied the carnival of Venice, a tribute to a long standing important trade partner. Since then, the festival lights up the medieval streets of Cádiz, beginning weekend before Ash Wednesday.

Puppets, elaborate costumes and street processions fill the town which overflows with color and a party atmosphere. One particular highlight and main focus of the carnival is singing. Official, costumed groups perform in hotly contested competitions, usually with a satirical theme or sketches about political life in Spain.

The carnival is great for anyone who is up for a raucous street party, lots of fancy dress and light-hearted entertainment. It’s a major event on the Spanish calendar and one of the best things to do in Cádiz .

Walpurgis Night – Sweden

Walpurgis Night, a traditional spring festival held from April 30 to May 1 in northern Europe and Scandinavia. It is particularly special in Sweden since King Carl XVI Gustaf also celebrates his birthday on Walpurgis.

In Sweden, typical celebratory happenings include singing Swedish spring folk songs and lighting bonfires . The bonfires are traditionally believed to ward off evil spirits, but now serve as a creative and fun way of getting rid of excess garden cuttings.

You can expect many Swedish flags flying high, parades and other jovial events. Anyone can partake in the festivities – if you don’t know the words to the songs, just hum along.

Nowruz – Iran

People in traditional clothing to celebrate Nowruz in Iran in Spring.

Nowruz, more commonly called Persian New Year, has been honored for over 3,000 years as the defeat of light over darkness.

The word Nowruz translates to “new day”. It is a celebration observing the beginning of spring and the first day of the new year in Iran , whose solar calendar starts with the spring equinox.

Though people traditionally celebrate Nowruz on the equinox, preparations for the holiday begin many weeks prior. In the events leading up to Nowruz, Iranians perform ritual dances and fill their houses with basins of water, which are symbolic of health and cleansing.

On the Wednesday that falls before Nowruz, some partake in jumping over small fires or go door-to-door banging spoons in order to ward off evil and bad luck. Many also bring offerings for the deceased to local cemeteries. People gather with friends and family to enjoy tea and Gaz, an amazing type of candy from Iran.

Nowruz is such an important celebration that it’s a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity item. The holiday is said to “promote values of peace and solidarity between generations and within families as well as reconciliation and neighborliness.”

Cities near and far with a sizeable Muslim community celebrate Nowruz, making it one of the most important spring celebrations in the world.

Vappu – Finland

Many people gathered for picnic in a park during Finland's annual spring celebration Vappu.

Vappu is certainly one of the craziest festivals you’ll ever experience. It is the Finnish version of celebrating May Day, combined with University students’ festival to mark the end of the term.

Vappu follows certain rules and, in fact, is heavy on drinking . Families with children, or people who don’t drink, might prefer to stay away.

The festival starts on April 30, when student celebrations take place. Everybody wears a white hat, which Finns receive upon graduating from high school. Typical ceremonials include putting a giant white hat on the main city statue. Current students wear their university’s overalls with patches sewn on and engage in games.

After that, it’s all about drinking and partying. The more, the merrier. On May 1st, the celebrations quiet down a bit and move to parks, where everyone goes for a picnic .

People all over Finland celebrate Vappu. You can experience the proper “student-crazy” Vappu in any Finnish city with a large student population, such as Helsinki, Turku, or Tampere.

Tulip Time – Australia

Want to see tulips and spring-like blooms in September? Head to Australia! Tulip Time in the gorgeous Southern Highlands region of Australia is the perfect festival for flower and garden lovers who are craving a touch of spring in the Northern hemisphere’s ‘off-season’.

The event takes place annually from mid-September to early October in the picturesque Corbett Gardens in Bowral . It is easily accessible on a day trip from Sydney or a longer stay in the area.

Tulip Time is one of the oldest springtime festivals in Australia . Vibrant displays of 75,000 tulips greet visitors each year. The festival also features music and entertainment in the Corbett Gardens throughout the duration as well as market stalls.

The Corbett Gardens are located in central Bowral an easy walk from the Bowral railway station. There’s also plenty of parking located nearby the gardens if you drive. The main street of Bowral has plenty of eateries to grab a bite, including one of the region’s most famous meals: meat pie.

Entry to Tulip Time costs $12 AUD for an adult and $7 AUD for a concession or child over 12. Children 12 and under are able to visit the festival free of charge. You must purchase tickets to Tulip Time online, where you can select a session time to visit.

Epic Spring Celebrations around the world!

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Some of these I’d heard of, some of them are completely new to me, but I loved learning about all these fun festivals. I’m all about the flowers. I’d love to visit a tulip festival, and definitely want to go see the lavender fields.

This is awesome! I’ve heard of a few of these spring festivals, but not all. I’ve wanted to go for the Festival of Colours (and India in general) for a while. Japan for the cherry blossoms has also been on my list, but that may get changed to South Korea now. I didn’t realise there were so many places to see tulips in spring either, I thought that was just Amsterdam!

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13 Top Spring Break Destinations Around the World: Spring Bucket List for Travellers

Flowers blooming, birds singing, sun shining and joy everywhere- that is the ultimate vibe of spring in the air. Looking for some inspiration to travel during spring break around the world? Here is a great list of top spring break destinations around the world to experience the magic of spring, recommended by some top travel experts.

“Despite the forecast, live like it is spring”

1- Tulip Fields, The Netherlands

2- cherry blossoms in tokyo, japan, 3- rocky mountains, canada, skagit valley tulip fields, 5- cornwall, uk, 6- moab, utah, usa, 7- madeira island, portugal, 8- holambra, sao polo, brazil, 9- dubrovnik, croatia, 10- wildlife migrations in cuba, 11- spring festival in budapest, 12- spring cheese festival, gruyeres, switzerland, spring road trip in french riviera.

4- Cherry Blossom & Tulip Fields, Washington DC

By McKenna Hurd @ One More Step Travels

Washington, DC, the capital of the United States, comes alive during spring when cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The National Mall, which is the land that spans from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial, is lined with hundreds of cherry blossom trees. From about late March to early May, pink and white flowers can be found everywhere you go in the city. In fact, there is even a whole festival centred around these blossoms, called the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is typically very busy, but the activities and sights make it worth it. In addition to thousands of cherry blossoms throughout the entire city, there are also cherry blossom sculptures, kite flying, and local petal decorations. Cherry blossom décor and souvenirs can also be found all over the city during this time.

Besides the festival, there are endless activities in Washington, DC. Smithsonian Museums hold incredible exhibits with artifacts from ancient mummies to rocket ships and even a zoo. The National Archives houses original documents that are foundations of the United States government system. The Tidal Basin is a beautiful pond surrounded by cherry blossoms and monuments. These just scratch the surface of things to do in the area.

If you’re planning a trip to Washington, DC , consider visiting during spring when the weather is perfect, and the scenery is a delight!

By Karee @ourwovenjourney

It may be surprising to learn that Washington State grows more tulips than anywhere else on the continent, making this flower festival a major attraction. With hundreds of thousands of tulip bulbs planted each year, along with daffodil and other flowers, it’s no wonder visitors come from all over the country to see them.

Almost all the flowers are grown in La Conner, Washington, a small town about an hour north of Seattle. There are two main growers, Roozengarde and Tulip Town, and both have large display gardens that visitors can pay to access. The bulbs are planted in stages so that there are always flowers blooming throughout the spring season.

READ ALSO: Winter Bucket List Activities for Travellers

Skagit Valley Tulip Fields, Washington DC

The Tulip Festival runs from April 1st – 31st and there are many coordinating events happening throughout the month. The Salmon Barbeque is very popular, as is the Street Fair held in Mt. Vernon on the 3rd weekend in April. (Check the official calendar for updates and changes.)

Visitors coming to tour the Skagit valley tulip fields should be prepared to get a little muddy since springtime is a rainy season in Washington. It’s a good idea to bring an umbrella and even a change of clothes, but consider touring the fields even if the weather is less than perfect. Bright, sunny weekends in April bring the most visitors and traffic can get very congested. Consider visiting during the week, even on a cloudy day, for the least amount of traffic and crowds.

By Eden @ Travels with Eden

One of the best spring holiday destinations in UK is Cornwall, the southernmost county in the UK. Cornwall is famous for its fantastic beaches, rugged coastline, ample attractions and family-friendly atmosphere. Visiting Cornwall in Spring, you’ll experience pleasant weather and fewer crowds for a more peaceful holiday. One of the best things to do in Spring is walking. The entire coast of Cornwall is part of the south-west coast path, a huge walk taking in Cornwall, Devon and some of Somerset.

13- Spring in Paris & French Riviera, France

Elisa @ France Bucket List

Paris is a lovely destination to visit in the spring. Paris in spring comes with many sunny days and pleasant temperatures, perfect for spending the day sightseeing or drinking a coffee with friends on a sunny terrace. From mid-March to the end of June, expect an explosion of colours in the parks and gardens. It is the perfect time for a Seine River cruise, a picnic in the park, or the first ice cream.

Paris in spring is also famous for its cherry blossoms. There are many spots to see cherry blossoms in Paris and the blooming season depends on the location but generally lasts from late March to mid-April. The best places to enjoy spring in Paris are the Seine River banks, the top of the Eiffel Tower, and of course the parks. Also, the picturesque neighbourhood of Montmartre is especially lovely in springtime.

Spring in Paris is also a good time for a day trip out of the city. There are many quaint villages not far from Paris, great for a day trip. However, the Royal castles are a favourite destination for a day trip from Paris, especially those with beautiful gardens like Versailles or the Loire Valley Castles.

The French Riviera is an excellent destination for a spring holiday in France. This strip of coastline in southern France sees the sun 300 days a year, so there’s no need to wait until the summer to enjoy a dip in the Mediterranean Sea or your favourite drink in a beach bar. Actually, the French Riviera is especially crowded in summertime, so spring is the best season to visit this part of France.

Nice France Spring Road Trip French Riviera

The best way to explore the French Riviera is on a self-drive holiday. A French Riviera road trip gives the freedom of traveling anywhere without depending on transport holidays plus if you like a place too much you can decide to stay longer.

International travelers can fly directly to Nice airport, which is one of the busiest airports in France. Then, cities like Nice, Cannes, or Monaco are well connected by TGV trains, which are the fastest trains in France.

The list of best destinations to visit on a French Riviera road trip includes Nice, Cannes, Monaco, Eze, Saint-Tropez, and the hilltop villages of Eze, Grasse, and Saint-Paul de Vence. Don’t forget the towel, hat, and sunscreen for the day, and be sure to pack a beautiful outfit for the French Riviera’s glitzy nights.

Jumana is a travel writer and technologist living in the United Kingdom, born and brought up in India. While she is busy with her full time job as a computer technologist, she is an active explorer during her spare time. She has been exploring states of India since she was 15 and then around the world since she moved to the west in her 20s. Her favourite travel style is “On the Road” and she has perfected the art of road trip planning, covering multiple famous and undiscovered routes around Europe, UK and USA. She is on a mission to road trip the planet and learn more about the cultures around the world.

12 places to catch the best spring blooms around the world

By Aubree West

Published on Mar 09, 2020 | 8 min

There’s no better way to celebrate the new season than flower chasing… Some places around the world are famous for their spring blooms, seriously you can’t think about Japan in the springtime without immediately picturing all of the vibrant cherry blossoms. And right now is the perfect time to plan your trip to see the world’s most blooming destinations. From Chile to India, here are the best places to catch the most beautiful spring flowers around the world. Here’s to flower power!

12. Keukenhof Gardens, Holland

Known for its abundance of tulips, a trip to Holland during springtime guarantees a few tulip sightings but a visit to Keukenhof Gardens is breathtaking. The Keukenhof Gardens open for just eight weeks each year, cover 79 acres and have over 7 MILLION flowers blooming each spring. The variations of tulips will be the showstopper but you can also expect to see daffodils, lilies, roses, irises and so many other flowering friends.

Whether it’s your first time to Holland during the spring or you’ve been before, no spring bloom is the same here because this garden is completely replanted every year! And if you want more, the Amsterdam Tulip Festival runs for the whole of April.

Best time to visit: April – May

View this post on Instagram A post shared by My Travel (@mytravel.ua) on Feb 23, 2020 at 12:46am PST

Japan Unrivalled

11. Medellin, Colombia

Every August, Medellin (also known as The City of Eternal Spring ) gets flooded with flowers to kick off the 10-day celebration of Feira de Las Flores or the Flower Festival. The city comes alive displaying its culture with parades, music, and stunning flowers that are grown all around the area. So, if it is flowers you seek, be sure to visit the botanical gardens around town. Stop by Santa Elena AKA the heartland of Medellin’s flower growers, and don’t miss the flower parade.

Best time to visit: August

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ◐ IDENTIDAD PAISA ◐ (@idpaisa) on Jul 24, 2019 at 5:28pm PDT

European Magic

10. Provence, France

If you are looking for endless horizons of purple, look no further Provence is the perfect place. Lavender fields and Provence are synonymous… you can’t visit without seeing the sprawling fields of lavender. A visit to Provence during flower season will have you fall in love with the picture-perfect blooms and calming lavender-scented winds. There’s nothing like the South of France in the warmer months.

Best time to visit: June – July

Image source: Michael / Unsplash

9. Perth, Western Australia

Western Australia is a flower lover’s paradise. With more than 12,000 species of wildflowers, you’ll have more than enough for your eyes – and nose – to soak up. And the flora hotspot is definitely Perth! Visit Kings Park for a botanical garden with over 3,000 unique flowers or hike Reabold Hill to for sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and wild flowers like bottlebrush and candle cranberry. So if blooms and being active sounds like bliss, you belong among the wild flowers in Perth…

Best time to visit: September

View this post on Instagram A post shared by TIA ✨ travel & lifestyle (@matteacarson) on Sep 27, 2018 at 6:03am PDT

8. M’Goun Valley, Morocco

Every spring 3-4,000 tons of flowers are collected from the M’Goun Valley. To celebrate the successful harvest, a three-day festival of roses takes place. If you’re looking to see endless rows of Damask roses across the beautiful valley, arrive before the festival in April. If you want to be a part of the celebrations (which include brightly-colored floats covered in paper roses, traditional food, music and dancing) May is your month.

All of the picked roses are used to create Moroccan rose oil, which is turned into a bunch of rosy products like shampoos, facial products and hand creams… you name it, roses are added to it. Time to stop and smell the roses we think.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Experience Morocco (@experiencemorocco) on Jan 22, 2020 at 6:44am PST

7. Lake District National Park, England

Around half of the world’s bluebells can be found in the UK and our favorite spot is The Lake District, renowned for its bluebell woods. Take the famous Rannerdale Knotts walk to find a spread of blue on blue across the hillsides. Or go off the beaten path with a stroll through Dorothy Farrer’s Wood for a secluded hidden nature walk. Either way, this sweet flower creates an aura of magic across the woodlands.

Best time to visit: May

Image source: Click and Learn Photography / Unsplash

6. Andalusia, Spain

Spring in the south of Spain – not only is the weather perfect, but there are fewer visitors which means the cities are all blooming. The blossoming orange trees make the best natural air freshener and the amazing parks like Maria Luisa Park in Seville or Carmen de los Martires in Granada have vibrant flowers on show. But Cordoba’s Fiesta de los Patios and Courtyard Festival are the ultimate reasons to visit Andalusia in the springtime. It’s a two-week-long celebration where the city fills its historic courtyards full of flowers. Get ready for all the houseplant inspo you’ll ever need.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jessika Howard (@j3ss4u) on May 16, 2019 at 1:47pm PDT

England and Scotland

5. Cape Floristic Region, South Africa

One of UNESCO’s world biodiversity hotspots, this region accounts for less than 0.5% of the continent of Africa but holds over 20% of its flora. PLUS, 30% of the plants in this region of South Africa can’t be found anywhere else, so this is a definite must-see spring bloom destination. From Table Mountain National Park to The De Hoop Nature Reserve you can visit and explore eight different areas and parks. Not sure where to go? We suggest starting at Table Mountain National Park for a complete *jaw-drop* flower moment.

Best time to visit: July – September

View this post on Instagram A post shared by earth | nature | wildflowers (@nuxiafloribunda) on Feb 22, 2020 at 4:33am PST

4. Valley of Flowers National Park, India

On the border of Nepal and Tibet, The Valley of Flowers in Northern India comes alive full of blooming flowers right after the first monsoon rain usually in July. There are over 300 alpine flower variations to see and when you combine those blooms with the vistas of valleys and mountain peaks will make you fall in the love with the beauty of this place. Picture perfect is an understatement, get ready for a full outdoor trek and adventure to catch these spring blooms.

Best time to visit: July – August

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Somos Serendipia (@somos_serendipia) on Aug 28, 2019 at 7:26pm PDT

3. Atacama Desert, Chile

A desert bloom is a phenomenon you really have to see to believe. Typically it only occurs in the Atacama Desert aka the driest place on earth every 4 to 7 years, but in recent years it has happened more frequently than that so you’ll have to be extra lucky to catch this spring bloom. But if you do, the wait is SO worthwhile. Expect desert sands and hillsides colored with purple, white, blue, and yellow flowers. So if a trip to Chile is in your near future you might get lucky and catch the desierto florido .

Best time to visit: September – November

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chile ?? (@chile) on Dec 12, 2019 at 10:45am PST

2. Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Another one of the best places to catch spring flowers bloom is Lake Tekapo in New Zealand where huge vibrant fields of lupins appear along the lakeshore. Seriously this is a photo opp like no other and the pics will make your IG grid a dream. The lupins range from pinks to lavenders to white, reds, and purples with mountains, beautiful skies, and turquoise glacier lakes as the backdrop. Fun fact, lupins are actually considered an invasive species and a weed… we wish all weeds were this pretty!

Best time to visit: November

Image source: Delphine Ducaruge / Unsplash

1. Antelope Valley, California Poppy Reserve

And our number one place to catch the BEST spring bloom goes to… Antelope Valley in California . If you’ve missed all the hype around Cali’s super blooms the past couple of years, don’t worry we’ll catch you up to speed… California has recently had good rainfall and chilly weather, which led to a full-blown poppy #superbloom which broke the internet as orange-flowered hills took over Insta. But whether the super bloom happens or not this year, Antelope Valley is the most consistent poppy-bearing land in California. Trust us these carpets of orange poppies are worth the trip.

Image source: Mike Ostrovsky / Unsplash

Spring is definitely the best time to travel, flower child. And now that you know all the best places to catch spring blooms around the world. The only question is… where to first?

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37 of the Best Destinations to Visit in Spring in Europe

Spring in Europe is pure joy – the scenery is vivid and bright, the weather is perfect, there are no big crowds (unless you’re attending a festival), and you can feel the vibrance and happiness this season brings.

So if you’re eager to find the best places to visit in Europe in March, April, and May, but not quite sure which destination to choose, here’s a roundup of cities and regions that are totally worth exploring.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Wondering where to travel to in spring in Europe? Here are 33+ of the best places to visit in Europe in spring!

Good to know: While spring is a good time to visit Europe, note that in many countries, March and April can be rainy at times. While it’s also a great time to escape the crowds of summer, Easter events and spring festivals are going to be busy.

Table of Contents

Best Spring Breaks in Europe: Unforgettable City Escapes

Paris, france.

By Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

Traveling to Paris is a wonderful idea all year round, however, the French capital is definitely one of the best cities to visit in spring in Europe.

The weather is usually nice and warm already with fewer tourist crowds compared to summer, which makes spring one of the best times to visit Paris.

On top of that, seeing the blooming flowers all around Paris is an unforgettable experience. Just think about magnolias and cherry blossoms (end of March/beginning of April), wisterias (end of April), or roses (mid-May)!

If you’re looking for the best photography spots in Paris during this season, head over to Jardin des Tuileries, Jardin des Plantes, and of course, the Eiffel Tower!

Apart from roaming the prettiest streets in Paris , you can’t miss taking a stroll along the Seine River, exploring the world-famous Musée du Louvre, and window shopping on the Champs-Élysées.

If you happen to visit around Easter, you can also attend some concerts and feast on delicious chocolate eggs!

Venice, Italy

By Claire from Tales of a Backpacker

I adore Venice at any time of year, but spring is my favorite time to visit. In springtime, the weather is warming up after winter but is still pleasantly cool without the humidity of July and August.

There are far fewer crowds than in the busier summer months, and as the days grow longer, you have more time to admire the beauty of Venice.

It is a perfect time to wander the pretty streets, take a gondola ride, and enjoy the delicious food in Venice without battling hordes of tourists.

It is also easier to explore the neighboring islands of Murano, Burano, and Lido, as the Vaporetto water buses are less crowded, and you are more likely to be able to sit down and enjoy the journey across the Venice lagoon.

As for where to stay, prices are likely to be cheaper in spring too, before the peak summer season pushes up the rates.

Athens, Greece

By Chrysoula from Athens and Beyond

Whether you only have one day in Athens or an entire weekend, this city is a fantastic destination to visit in the spring.

You will get mainly sunny days with an average temperature between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius, perfect weather for strolling around the many archaeological sites and the alleyways of the picturesque Plaka neighborhood .

During that time, there are fewer crowds and prices for hotels and flights are relatively low. If you are visiting on the 25th of March, which is a national holiday, you will get to see the army parade at the center of Athens.

At the end of April and the beginning of May, Orthodox Easter is celebrated around Greece, which is another interesting time to visit the city.

Bruges, Belgium

By Charu from Travel With CG

Bruges is an enchanting city whose sights feel straight out of storybooks of the past. Full of medieval buildings, other-worldly canals, and cobblestone streets, every nook here looks like it has been untouched for eons.

Being a destination whose charm not only lies out in the open but is also best seen on foot, Bruges is a wonderful European spring destination.

If you like having popular places without the peak season crowd, then spring is the ideal time to travel here.

With the weather getting warmer, you can comfortably stroll around the quaint alleys of Bruges’ historic town center and devour a delicious Belgian waffle or two.

There are also numerous boats offering canal tours, so you can hop on them for a picturesque ride. Lastly, make sure to climb 366 steps to reach the top of the Belfry Tower to get an unobstructed view of this charming city.

best places in europe to visit in spring - Bruges

Palermo (Sicily), Italy

By Caroline from Veggie Wayfarer

Palermo is the capital of the always sunny island of Sicily in the south of Italy. It is the perfect spot if you are craving a spring break in Europe and looking to top up on vitamin D.

Italy is renowned for its fabulous food – the best in the world according to many. Make sure to fill up on the traditional pizza and pasta, but save some room for the typical Sicilian street food when traveling in Palermo.

Stop by the Antica Focacceria San Francesco to munch on a typical Arancina (fried rice balls containing ragu or if you are a vegetarian – a la norma ).

Looking for other specialties per region in Italy? Check out these delicious vegetarian Italian foods .

When in Palermo, be sure to visit the local churches. The most beautiful ones are the Church of the Gesu, San Giuseppe dei Teatini, and the extraordinary 12th-century Arab-Norman architectural gem – the Church of San Cataldo.

And last of all, stop by the Norman Palace, which dates back to the 9th century. It is the oldest palace in all of Europe!

Ljubljana, Slovenia

By Kami from My Wanderlust

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is such a perfect city break in the springtime.

The city isn’t packed with tourists yet, and you can peacefully enjoy all the great things to do in Ljubljana : wandering around the Old Town, going up to the castle, or finding all the dragons (a well-known European legend ), just to name a few.

Once you are done sightseeing, the numerous restaurants and cafes lined along the leafy banks of the Ljubljanica River wait for you to sit down, relax, and be amazed by the spring blooming around.

You might also go to Nebotičnik cafe to see the most beautiful view over Ljubljana and beyond from their open-air terrace.

Since recently Slovenia has become a very popular destination, spring is a perfect time to go for day trips from Ljubljana and see without crowds some of the most spectacular places in the country, such as Piran , Postojna Cave, or Lake Bled.

Istanbul, Turkey

By Roxanne from Far Away Worlds

At the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul is a fascinating city, and spring is an especially beautiful time to visit this captivating place.

Flowers are blooming, softening the Ottoman architecture and bringing color to the mosques and churches dotted around the city.

The weather is warm and pleasant – the hot and humid days are more common in summer – and there’s scarcely a hint of the crowds you’ll see in July and August.

Spring is the perfect season to plan your Istanbul itinerary . It’s the best time to visit the stunning Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, and the palace grounds are particularly lovely this time of year, with a colorful selection of flowers.

There are also several festivals happening around the city including the Istanbul Tulip Festival and several dance festivals. No matter where you stay in Istanbul , there’s always something to see and do on your doorstep.

Budapest, Hungary

A city as photogenic as Budapest is worth a visit at any time of the year, but in spring, you can enjoy the combination of perfect weather, blossoms, and seasonal festivals.

In April, the Cherry Blossom Festival and the Budapest Spring Festival take place. The latter is the largest cultural event in Hungary , and for two weeks, you can enjoy hundreds of music concerts, dance performances, art exhibitions, and much more.

When planning your Budapest itinerary , don’t forget to include landmarks like Fisherman’s Bastion, the Great Synagogue , and the Hungarian Parliament Building, unique activities like street art hunting and Jewish history tours, museums, and cozy cafes .

You can also take day trips from Budapest to beautiful towns such as Szentendre, Gyor, and Eger.

Madrid, Spain

If it’s not your first time here, you know that Madrid has my heart and that it feels like a second home to me.

Spring is an amazing season to explore the city, not only because of the pleasant weather but also because a few spots turn colorfully floral.

In March and April, the almond trees of Quinta de los Molinos Park are in full bloom (but one rainy day is enough to wash the flowers away so timing is critical), and in May, Oeste Park’s rose garden is as colorful as it can be.

If you do come across a rainy spring day, there are plenty of free museums , indoor markets, and cafes in Madrid , so your itinerary can easily be adjusted.

Visit places like the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and Retiro Park, or discover Madrid’s hidden gems like its secret gardens and palaces.

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

By Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Amsterdam is the perfect place to visit in the Netherlands in spring since this is the time of the year when the Dutch tulips begin to bloom and the whole city is coming alive.

Since the weather will still be pleasantly cool and not too hot, you can take your time to explore the city’s narrow streets either on foot or by bike. Make sure to take a boat tour on one of the many canals and enjoy the stunning views.

You can also take a day trip to the infamous Keukenhof Tulip Gardens with the Keukenhof Express Bus or with a tour .

If you do encounter a rainy day during spring, there are still plenty of indoor activities to choose from.

Visit one of Amsterdam’s many world-famous museums and art galleries, or simply sit in a cafe or restaurant and watch as the city passes you by.

If you don’t have plans yet for spring, Amsterdam should be high on your list. Find out how to plan the perfect itinerary here.

Valencia, Spain

To enjoy one of the most epic spring festivals in Europe, travel in March to Valencia, Spain ‘s third-largest city.

The Fallas Festival is a mind-blowing 5-day event that includes giant colorful sculptures, fireworks, parades, illuminated streets, and so much more. If you want to visit, read my detailed Fallas festival guide and Valencia travel tips .

In April and May, the pleasant weather and fewer crowds will let you explore all the incredible things to do in Valencia and its hidden gems .

These include the City of Arts and Sciences, Valencia Cathedral, Silk Exchange, El Carmen neighborhood, and the unique Casa Judia.

If you’re addicted to Spain’s national dish, paella, Valencia will also satisfy your cravings, as this is the region where it was born.

Not only is the city home to dozens of traditional paella restaurants, but you can also take an easy day trip to its actual birthplace – the village of El Palmar.

A sculpture at Las Fallas festival in Valencia

Vienna, Austria

By Lyubomira from Bulgarian On The Go

Located in the heart of Europe, Vienna is certainly beautiful all year round. But there is something very special about Austria’s capital in spring.

May it be the gorgeous blossom trees, blooming rose gardens, or just the fresh atmosphere of the city – it is definitely worth paying a visit.

Spring in Vienna is best spent outdoors – go to the Volksgarten, which is covered in 400 kinds of roses, marvel at the beauty of one of the most famous landmarks of Austria , the Schönbrunn Palace, and roam around its gardens and Orangery.

At the beginning of April, the Easter markets take place, while in May, visitors can satisfy their culinary needs at the Genussfestival in Stadtpark.

Vienna is a very active Austrian city , and it certainly comes to life during spring. You should definitely consider spending at least one or two days in Vienna to experience its magic for yourself.

Prague, Czech Republic

By Mayuri from To Some Place New

Prague is one of the best European cities to visit in spring.

This season, especially Prague in March and April , is a delightful time to indulge in off-season travel, hang out at Easter markets, and enjoy seasonal festivities and events.

When Easter week comes, you must go Easter egg hunting in Prague’s Easter Markets like the Velikonocni Trhy.

You can also visit a cathedral and take part in choirs and ceremonies. Festivals and events also include a farmer’s market and a film festival.

Visiting off-season, you can easily explore the city center’s attractions with fewer crowds.

Be sure to visit the Astronomical Clock Tower, Kinksy Palace, Charles Bridge, and the beautiful Prague Castle. These sites will not be busy as compared to the peak summer months.

Belgrade, Serbia

By Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Belgrade in Serbia is one of the best spring destinations in Europe. It’s a city with a tumultuous past that is probably part of the reason that tourism is still in its infancy.

Few people know that Belgrade is actually among the oldest cities in Europe. But Belgrade is becoming more popular for good reasons.

Besides its interesting history, it’s a young and dynamic capital with a thriving nightlife scene and a scenic location at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers.

Spring is when the city awakens. As days get warmer and sunnier, locals go out and about in a joyous mood.

This is a great time to join the locals in the city’s parks, such as the popular Kalemegdan Park in the heart of the city, where you can enjoy beautiful views from the fortress.

It’s also a time of festivities with several spring festivals and widely celebrated Easter traditions.

Freiburg, Germany

By Mark from Wyld Family Travel

An easy day trip from Basel , Freiburg is located in an enviable location, close to the French Alsace Region and Swiss borders and on the edge of the acclaimed Black Forest.

Freiburg receives some of the best weather in Germany with many sunny days, making it one of the best spring break destinations in Europe. There are many things to do in Freiburg for the whole family.

The Bachle is unique to Freiburg. It is a series of small open waterways that flow through the city. Another local sight is the Freiburg Minster, which has been standing since the 12th century.

You can take a cable car from the city center to Schlossberg Hill, from where you will get some fantastic views of the city stretching into the mountains surrounding.

The mild weather is also great for visiting The Mundlehof, an open-air zoo and green zone where people walk and eat at the beer garden.

Freiburg is a lively city with many cafes, bars, beer gardens, and restaurants. Food in Freiburg has a German and French feel, and you should try the Flamkussen and Bratwurst, which are regional specialties.

Day trips to Colmar , Strasbourg, Basel, and Titisee are all doable in under an hour from Freiburg.

Best Destinations to Visit in Spring in Europe: Regions Worth Exploring

Cappadocia, turkey.

By David from The World Travel Guy

The historical area of Cappadocia in central Turkey is full of natural wonders and unique landscapes, and spring is a great time to visit, with cooler weather and fewer crowds!

There are lots of good things to do in Cappadocia, Turkey, but the most popular activity by far is the signature hot air balloon ride.

More than half of the world’s hot air balloon rides happen in Cappadocia, and it’s an especially scenic place to do it because of all the rock formations you can see from above.

History buffs will be interested to know that this was the site of human settlements carved by refugees during the Roman Empire.

Most of the rock buildings and underground cities of Cappadocia can still be seen today, and they look just like Star Wars movie sets.

Other good reasons to come here are Turkish food, cave hotels, and numerous hiking trails.

Madeira Island, Portugal

By Megan from Virginia Travel Tips

Portugal’s Madeira Island is spectacular no matter when you visit it, but it especially shines in spring!

The destination is renowned for its title of ‘eternal springtime’ actually, and it really feels that way when you visit as flowers and greenery are ever-present.

Surrounded by mountains, prehistoric volcanoes, waterfalls, and other natural wonders, Madeira is actually a bit cheaper in spring as the high season hasn’t been reached yet.

It will make accommodation easier to come by (especially earlier in the season). Some of the best activities for spring are hiking the levadas , whale watching, snorkeling, and more.

Another reason to visit Madeira in spring is that there are different festivals throughout the island. One of the top festivals is the Madeira Flower Festival.

This is when the island celebrates spring’s arrival with thousands of flowers lining the streets, which is truly an epic experience.

Mallorca, Spain

With pleasant weather, a lot fewer tourists, and a whole lot to do and see, Mallorca in spring is a paradise.

Whether you want to explore the island by car to see its hidden gems , plan a Mallorca itinerary by public transport , or do nothing but soak up the sun, you’ll discover a mix of dreamy beaches, soul-cleansing nature, and charming towns.

The capital, Palma de Mallorca, makes for a great weekend getaway in Spain .

From historical landmarks and an enchanting old town to art museums and modernist architecture to tapas bars and cozy cafes , this coastal city is delightful. Be sure to visit the Palma Cathedral, Bellver Castle, and the Royal Palace of La Almudaina.

Continuing to the countryside, the UNESCO-listed Serra de Tramuntana mountain range is home to picturesque towns like Valldemossa, Soller, and Deia, scenic viewpoints (like Mirador Es Colomer), and magical beaches (like Platja de Formentor).

In eastern Mallorca, you’ll find the infamous Drach Caves, Mondragó Natural Park, a mesmerizing coastline, and much more.

This island is also a great destination for adventurers, wine lovers, history buffs, and other types of travelers.

Old stone houses in the village of Valldemossa in Mallorca Spain

LOIRE DEPARTMENT , FRANCE

By Leyla from Offbeat France

Spring is perfect for offbeat destinations in France: the crowds haven’t yet arrived, and nature is in bloom.

But spring can also mean variable weather, and one destination that offers both indoor and outdoor experiences is the Loire department – not to be confused with the nearby Loire Valley.

The Loire department (number 42 in France’s numbering system) is a network of delightful villages, medieval churches, Renaissance chateaux, and quirky museums. One such chateau is the Bâtie d’Urfé, built in the 16th century, and inspired by the owner’s trip to Italy .

He also built a grotto, which is unique in France, and made entirely of shells, sand, and pebbles.

Beyond this chateau are the delightful villages of Ambierle and St-Haon-le-Chatel, with winding streets and ancient architecture, ideal for strolling.

If the weather shifts to rain or cooler temperatures, some of the area’s fun museums are the perfect refuge – the Hat Museum, for example, which keeps felting traditions alive, or the Silk Museum, which does the same for silk.

The area, by the way, is also known for its food and wine…

Caucasus Region, Armenia/Azerbaijan/Georgia

By Megan from Absolute Armenia

The Caucasus is a wonderful region to put on your bucket list of the best European spring destinations. It includes Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, as well as the North Caucasus.

The reason this region inspires during the springtime is that winter moves out of the area and flowers are all over the place, making it colorful and lively once again.

You will find that the waterfalls in Armenia , Georgia, and Azerbaijan are gushing after the snow melts in the mountains, and many holidays are celebrated in the region during this time.

Another perk of visiting during spring is that the region suffers from extremely hot temperatures during summer, and spring is comfortable and offers a pleasurable city experience regardless of whether you’re in Baku, Tbilisi, or Yerevan.

Spring is also a great time for events and festivals in the Southern Caucasus.

Baku hosts many events, including the Formula1 Races in April, Armenia has festivals such as Urvakan Music Fest and Yerevan Wine Days in May, and Georgia has a fantastic International Folk Festival.

Interested in planning a trip? Don’t forget to read these things you need to know before traveling to Armenia !

best places in europe in spring - Armenia

Alsace, France

Although it is known as a magical Christmas destination, the Alsace Wine Route is ideal for a spring trip. This is the oldest wine route in France, boasting carpets of vineyards dotted with storybook medieval villages, exquisite wineries, and old castle ruins.

Spring is the time when the scenery here is vibrantly green, the sky is clear, the weather is pleasant, and the Kutzig tourist bus, which lets you explore Alsace’s most famous villages without a car , starts operating again.

Those include the lovely Colmar and the dreamy Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguiseim, to name a few.

You should, of course, also have some wine tastings in the local wineries (I LOVED Freudenreich Joseph et Fils in Eguisheim), visit landmarks like the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, and even engage in activities like hiking and cycling.

You can also spend a couple of days in the beautiful city of Strasbourg, exploring its UNESCO-listed historic center, enjoying its culinary scene, and strolling through the intriguing Neustadt district.

Devon, England

By Kat from Wandering Bird

Devon in south England is one of the prettiest and best places to visit in Europe in spring.

Trees are green and lush and all the spring flowers are in bloom – thousands of daffodils, tulips, and bluebells. You can also easily find cozy lodges in Devon , as well as other fantastic accommodations.

If you’d like to walk in a forest that is full of bluebells, head to Buzzards Woods, a National Trust-managed property. Parking is free and you can roam for hours, mesmerized by the sea of blue.

If you like flowers, this is also the time to add Dartmoor and the Dunsford Nature Reserve to your Devon Road Trip itinerary – famous for the wild daffodils that grow in abundance.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also see baby deer, chicks, and other wildlife coming out to enjoy the warmer weather.

You should also visit Devon in springtime for the food festivals. One of the biggest is the Exeter Festival of South-West Food and Drink, set on the grounds of Exeter Castle Courtyard and Northernhay Gardens.

Producers from around the region bring their best delicacies, and there are awards and demonstrations throughout. The Festival usually happens in early May.

best spring destinations in Europe - Devon

Lofoten Islands, Norway

By Megan from Megan & Aram

Spring in the Lofoten Islands differs from year to year, but one thing is for certain – it is stunning!

In some seasons, the winter in Lofoten will last until only March, and in other seasons, it will stick around until May.

However, one of the biggest perks of visiting Lofoten during spring is that the northern lights are still around, and you don’t have the midnight sun (or polar nights).

You can beat the crowds and witness them with cheaper prices and small tour groups.

Another advantage is that you can start the hiking and surfing season again. Unstad Arctic Surf in Bøstad is open and ready to teach visitors to surf these Arctic waves with ease.

You can also rent a car and travel around the islands very easily with less traffic on the roads during spring.

Some of the best places to visit and things to do in the Lofoten Islands during this time of year are Henningsvær, a fishing village with peaceful views and a charming harbor, horseback riding under the northern lights with Hovgård on Gimsøy, and experiencing the luxury of the Lofoten Rørbuer, fisherman cabins converted into accommodation.

Puglia, Italy

If you want to enjoy one of Italy’s most popular summer spots but prefer to travel when there are much fewer crowds, Puglia in spring is for you.

This southern region is known for its pretty coastal towns (like Poignano a Mare) and dreamy beaches, though inland, you’ll find lovely countryside and must-see towns like Alberobello (and its unique Trulli houses) and Locorotondo.

It’s also the biggest producer of olive oil and one of the best yet undiscovered wine regions in Italy, and not surprisingly, the food here is absolutely incredible, offering typical dishes such as orecchiette with broccoli rabe, T iella (a baked delicacy made with rice, potatoes, and mussels), and spaghetti all ‘ assassina .

If you’re not looking to go for a swim, you can even visit Puglia in March , but the weather gets more pleasant in late spring.

In addition, you can visit Puglia without a car by taking day trips from Bari , the capital.

viewpoint of sea and houses in Polignano a Mare, Italy

Ticino, Switzerland

By Daria from The Discovery Nut

The only Italian-speaking canton of Switzerland, Ticino makes for a perfect spring destination thanks to its stunning scenery and mild temperatures.

Surrounded by the Southern Alps, Ticino has a warmer climate than the rest of Switzerland, which makes spring come here earlier.

Many of its major cities have a unique Mediterranean flair but offer an unmistakable Swiss character.

As winter chills away, warm weather moves in, giving way to opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying time outdoors in places like Valley Verzasca and Valley Maggia.

And Ticino is home not only to gorgeous scenery but also to many museums and cultural landmarks.

For example, a trip to Bellinzona, one of the best places to visit in Ticino (and its capital), is a must because of its castles, which are one of the main attractions in the entire canton.

This UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site will amaze you with its incredible architecture amid the green rolling hills of the surrounding valley.

West Coast of Cyprus

By Smita from My Faulty Compass

A wonderful mix of stunning natural beauty and fascinating history and folklore, the west coast of Cyprus is a dream destination, especially during the spring when the weather is perfect and there are barely any tourists!

Base yourself in Paphos and start your trip with the most iconic of Cyprus attractions – Petra tou Romiou, the birthplace of the legendary Aphrodite.

It is an idyllic location to take in the sunset or take a swim around the Aphrodite rock if you’d like to be blessed by the Goddess with eternal youth and beauty!

The city of Paphos itself is a historic treasure with its archaeological sites such as the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and the Tombs of the Kings.

For more natural beauty, head to the Akamas peninsula. With its mountains, forests, and rugged coastline, this is the spot for some of the best hikes on the island.

Rhodopes Region, Bulgaria

By Bilyana from Owl Over The World

The Rhodopes region encompasses Rhodopes Mountain, which is the largest mountain in Bulgaria. It is about 240 km long and 100 to 120 km wide. The average altitude of Rhodopes Mountain is 785 meters.

The Rhodopes region is home to many dams where locals love to go camping, karst areas, deep river gorges, large caves, and some of the most charming villages to visit in Bulgaria .

The Waterfalls Canyon, close to the city of Smolyan, is perfect for a spring trip. The rains and the melted snow make the water levels high, so everything is green, and the trees are blooming.

Thracian tribes inhabited the Rhodopes for centuries and have left a rich cultural heritage. Many remains of their culture can be seen, including the ancient sites of Belintash, Perperikon, and Tatul.

The best way to explore the Rhodopes region is by car. Some places are very remote, and as an alternative, you can visit them on a hike or by bike (the Rhodopes are one of the best places for mountain biking in the country).

Provence, France

By Nadine from Le Long Weekend

From late March, the landscape in Provence comes alive after a dormant winter, and spring blossoms and colorful crops fill the fields once again.

It starts with the delicate almond blossom before vibrant yellow rapeseed fills the scene, and then the region’s famed poppies take center stage.

But it’s not just the countryside that comes to life.

Spring is the season of brocantes – flea markets (including one of the biggest antique fairs in Europe – held in L’isle-sur-la-Sorgue), art exhibitions (such as the nationwide Journées des Métiers d’Art), and food festivals.

Everything from strawberries to goat’s cheese has its own place on the calendar, and attending these local festivities is a fabulous way of experiencing local life.

The weather is typically warm in spring, making it perfect for visiting the famed farmer’s markets, hiking the Calanques , visiting the region’s wineries , and exploring the charming streets of its villages and towns.

Andalucia, Spain

Being the hottest region in Spain, Andalucia is an ideal destination for a European spring trip.

Steeped in history, it provides an opportunity to step back in time in the most stunning cities and their UNESCO-listed landmarks while also enjoying the beauty of white-washed villages and natural landscapes.

In the city of Granada, you can visit the magnificent Alhambra – a royal complex dating back to Moorish times, stroll through the historic neighborhoods of Sacromonte and Albayzín, and marvel at the cathedral.

In Cordoba, you can immerse yourself in the Jewish history of Andalucia, and in Seville, you should visit the Royal Alcázars of Seville, the jaw-dropping Gothic cathedral, and the photogenic Plaza de España.

Away from the cities, you’ll find enchanting villages such as Setenil de las Bodegas and Mijas, as well as national and natural parks like the Sierra Nevada and Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas.

In spring, apart from Easter celebrations across Andalucia, major seasonal festivals take place, from Seville’s Feria de Abril to the Patios de Cordoba , an explosion of colorful flowers.

While it is possible to get around the region’s cities by public transport, it’s best to take a road trip through Andalucia to visit its stunning villages, parks, and hidden gems .

Views of the Alhambra royal complex in Granada Spain

West Coast of Ireland

By Luke from Wild About B C

Taking a road trip along the wild and rugged West Coast of Ireland is an epic adventure.

Spring is an ideal time to visit as the weather is much better than in the winter and you’ll get all of the natural beauty with almost none of the crowds.

It’s not for nothing that the West Coast is one of the top places you must visit in Ireland . It’s known for its stormy seas and large waves battering the shoreline, so you will have a chance to witness the raw power of the Atlantic.

Some of the highlights along the West Coast include the Cliffs of Moher, Galway City, and Slieve League, but you should also visit some of the prettiest coastal towns in Ireland like Westport and Dingle.

One of the most fun parts of a road trip here is exploring some of the lesser-known areas and enjoying a pint of Guinness in tiny local pubs (where you’ll wonder where all the customers actually come from).

A visit to the beautiful Emerald Isle is one you will never forget.

Northern Ireland

By Allan from It’s Sometimes Sunny in Bangor

For many, spring is the best time to visit Northern Ireland , as it marks the beginning of the tourist season with the reopening of many of the country’s scenic tourist attractions.

This includes the opening of many gardens and tours of historic homes and manors, many of which are run by the National Trust.

Northern Ireland is also a compact and close-knit country to explore, so a road trip is perfect at this time of the year through the many gardens and homes.

Some of the more popular attractions include the Hillsborough Castle and Gardens, which is the official residence in Northern Ireland of the Queen and Royal Family.

Other visit-worthy National Trust properties are the gardens of Mount Stewart, Castle Ward (famous as the filming location of Winterfell in the Game of Thrones), and Rowallane Gardens.

Latgale Region, Latvia

By Margherita from The Crowded Planet

Not many people may have heard of the Latgale region in Eastern Latvia , a wonderful destination for nature lovers. Latgale is especially known for its many lakes.

The largest is Lake Lubans, an excellent birdwatching destination located on the migration route between Scandinavia and Southern Europe.

There are also many more outdoor experiences you can enjoy – paddleboarding to the ruins of Koknese Castle, kayaking along interconnected lakes, and mountain biking to a village of Old Believers (a religious Russian Orthodox minority with a unique culture and cuisine).

The main town in the region is Daugavpils, known for its fortress and for being the birthplace of the artist Mark Rothko. There is now a museum and arts center dedicated to him in the fortress, where you can also spend the night.

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy Latgale, as the weather is generally nice and sunny, the flowers are in bloom, and it’s a great time for birdwatching!

Cinque Terre, Italy

By Monique from Trip Anthropologist

April and May are the perfect months to visit the Cinque Terre. The weather is warm, but it gets dark at around 5 pm, and it can sometimes rain.

This means that getting out onto the sea and lazing on the tiny harbor beaches of the Cinque Terre is lovely in the middle of the day.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is best discovered by walking and hiking. Above Vernazza and the other five villages are hiking paths through orchards, olive groves, and medieval fortifications and castles.

Walking and hiking through the villages is one of the best activities in the Cinque Terre as much of the beauty comes from the colorful houses and the winding cobblestone streets.

The Cinque Terre is best accessed by train – the railway winds along the coastline and through tunnels and is an exciting way to arrive at these beautiful villages.

Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

By Angeline from Go Around Philippi nes

Montenegro is a small country with different landscapes. Spring is the best time to experience its Adriatic coast, its stunning rugged mountains, and the limestone peaks of the Durmitor National Park.

Durmitor is a breathtaking national park formed by glaciers and is traversed by rivers and underground streams. The best way to see it is by renting a car and going on a road trip.

Start from the capital of Podgorica and continue going up to Durmitor Park. The park has about fifty peaks higher than 2,000 meters above sea level with alpine meadows and forests, glacial lakes, and spectacular canyons.

Many endemic animals can be found in the park too. The Tara River Gorge, Europe’s deepest gorge can also be found here. You can hike, camp, swim in the lakes, go mountaineering and canoeing, and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Algarve Region, Portugal

By Alya & Campbell from Stingy Nomads

The sunny Algarve region in the south of Portugal is a perfect destination for a spring vacation in Europe. The Algarve is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, hidden bays and coves, warm turquoise color water, and delicious seafood.

Spring is the best time to visit the Algarve – sunny warm days, not too many tourists, thousands of spring flowers cover the fields along the coast , and hundreds of storks are nesting on the edges of the cliffs.

April and May are the best months for outdoor activities in the region. There are many breathtaking hiking trails along the coast, a couple of great surfing and kitesurfing spots, and several cycling routes with picturesque views.

Spring isn’t the high season in the Algarve, which means there will be plenty of accommodation options for a reasonable price, unlike during the summer holiday season.

There is an international airport in Faro, the region’s capital, and most smaller towns can be reached by daily public buses from Lisbon.

Moray Speyside, Scotland

By Eric from Food and Drink Destinations

The Speyside region of northeastern Scotland is certainly worth visiting.

Over 150 miles north of both Edinburgh and Glasgow, Speyside can be reached by car or train. The region is a must for those who travel for food, nature, and history.

Famous for being home to the highest concentration of whisky distilleries in Scotland, you can sample numerous whiskies by traveling the world’s only Malt Whisky Trail.

For lovers of nature and history, the Speyside region features rolling hillsides, crystal blue rivers, and, of course, castles. There are plenty of opportunities to explore Speyside on foot via the Speyside Way, a 60+ mile-long walking route.

Scotland’s food doesn’t always have the best reputation. In Speyside, chefs are using incredible ingredients from the land and sea to rewrite what people know about Scottish food.

On your next trip to Scotland, make sure to carve off a few days to visit Speyside.

Want to see more of Scotland? Here are some of the most beautiful Scottish Islands !

Dalmatia Region, Croatia

By Baia from Red Fedora Diary

Dalmatia region in Croatia is a narrow tract of the east coast of the Adriatic, covering a central coastal strip and dozens of nearby islands in the Adriatic.

It features some of the most beautiful places in Croatia , including the iconic cities of Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, and Sibenik, to name a few.

So, if you are looking for relaxing, idyllic spring holiday destinations in Europe with fewer crowds that also offer rich history and culture, consider planning a trip across Dalmatia.

The weather in spring here is warm enough to wander through its charming city streets with a light jacket, admiring the spring bloom and enjoying the sun’s rays.

It’s also a good time to visit the famous Plitvice and Krka National Parks in peace.

In late spring, with warmer weather, you can even try to take a dip in the sea at one of its popular islands.

Check out my roundups of the best winter city breaks in Europe and beautiful Mediterranean islands to visit in summer !

Looking for more travel inspiration? Read more travel guides about this amazing continent:

Myths and legends from Europe
Beautiful European squares
Girls’ trips in Europe

Did you like these ideas of spring break trips to Europe? Pin this post for later!

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Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

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Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Spring For Colourful Flowers

Jan 31, 2024

Best places to visit in spring

Is the thought of warmer air, longer days, and bright spring flowers taunting you from the abyss of cold, short, dark winter days? 💭 Same! We’re glad we’re not alone in our bottomless, monochromatic chill … so thanks, and also, sorry? 😜 🥶 To lessen the chill, today we’re going to share the best places to visit in the spring for colourful flowers around the world. 👏

Here at Flytographer, we easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over four million memories worldwide. 🌏 The magic of Flytographer ✨ is both the experience and the photos. Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever. Read on for recommendations from our local photographers, sharing some of their favourite spring destinations! ❣️

Taormina, Italy — Taormina will captivate you with panoramic views of Sicily’s surrounding landscape, including pops of pink oleander flowers dotting the cliffside.
Nashville, Tennessee — Nashville is colourful and bright, and places like the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens are a perfect springtime destination.
Mykonos, Greece — can you just see it? The dramatic contrast of blue and white? Look a little closer and you’ll see the stunning pops of colour Mykonos is showing off!
San Juan, Puerto Rico — we adore classic Old San Juan’s cobblestone streets and colourful buildings, accented by even more colourful flowers, tiles, doors, walls, and more.
Hoi An, Vietnam — Hoi An is an old town that brilliantly displays a well-preserved ancient history — a colourful melting pot, rich in beauty, with walkable, winding streets and an eclectic fusion of cultures.
Montreal, Canada — French-speaking Montreal is an awesome urban destination that’s charming, eclectic, and energetic.
Lisbon, Portugal — old world and new dance together in charming Lisbon!
Kyoto, Japan — Cherry blossom season typically spans from late March through early April in Kyoto, and cherry blossoms plus Japanese culture go hand in hand.
Washington, DC — the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin are absolutely iconic — the stars of springtime in DC.
Amsterdam, Netherlands — Did your mind instantly go to fields of tulips and endless natural beauty? Oh, Amsterdam!

“When we went to book a shoot to commemorate the our engagement and check out the cherry blossoms at the tidal basin in Washington, DC we weren’t sure what to expect. To our delighted surprise, we were blown away by our talented flytographer! Elisenda was not only obviously talented as a photographer, but SO much fun! Even with crazy crowds checking out the Cherry Blossoms in DC she made the whole morning feel relaxed, natural, and memorable. Her ease and comfort behind the camera made us, two highly awkward and goofy individuals, seem like we do this every day. She spoiled us with all her knowledge of the best locations and times to visit each. She really was such a joy from beginning to end!”

Tidal Basin

“Elina was so much fun to work with! Apart from her professionalism, excellent understanding of light and most scenic photo spots, she made our children feel very comfortable from the get go! This alone made our shoot effortless and efficient. We love our photos and would highly recommend her to anyone.”

The Jordaan

“Raul made us feel so comfortable and helped give us some guidance for poses as we mentioned we haven’t done many photoshoots in the past. I appreciated how he reached out to check in on the possible weather concerns (it all worked out fine in the end). While walking through the town to find more shooting locations, Raul chatted with us, asked questions to get to know us & our travel plans and then provided some great suggestions for local places to visit. I truly appreciate the photos that Raul captured of us & our love. Everyone was so impressed to see them.”

Classic Old San Juan

A family runs together through a grassy area with cacti in Mesa, USA while on a family photoshoot with Flytographer.

Top 10 Spring Break Ideas for Families

January 26, 2024

Spring break ideas Spring is approaching quickly! 🌸 Are you looking for great family-friendly destination ideas for spring...

Top 10 Spring Photoshoot Tips From Around the World

March 3, 2023

It’s finally that time of year! 🌼 The winter coats have been tucked away, the dandelions, daffodils and bluebells are...

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These are the 15 best places to visit for spring break this year

Ah, spring — the season of rejuvenation and adventure. It's that time of year when the winter chill thaws and possibilities bloom like spring flowers.

Are you ready to ditch the textbooks, escape the office, or take a break from the daily grind? Spring break is not just a time off; it's a state of mind! It's your chance to explore new horizons, make unforgettable memories and maybe even find a new favorite cocktail.

We've scoured the globe to bring you the top 15 spring break destinations that cater to every traveler's taste, whether you're a college student ready to party, a couple in search of romance or a family eager for fun.

Here are the best places for spring break travel.

Grenada: A hidden gem beach

Have you heard about Grenada? As it marks its 50th year of independence, this island isn't just another dot in the Caribbean; it's a world of its own.

Picture this: secluded beaches like the famous Grand Anse, where the sand is soft, and the crowds are few. But there's more to the island than just beaches.

If you're into exploring different cultures, you'll love it here. The island has its own music, tasty food and markets full of spices. And if you're adventurous, the rainforests and hidden waterfalls are ideal for some nature immersion.

So, if you're looking for a special place that's under the radar and not too busy, you've come to the right place.

Where to stay : Mount Cinnamon is a boutique hotel with 36 hillside suites and villas above Grand Anse Beach. Plus, it has a complimentary kids club for 3- to 12-year-olds. Rates start at $720 per room, per night, including breakfast, in March and April.

Related: The 22 best Caribbean resorts, from boutique literary haunts to exclusive private-island escapes

Cancun, Mexico: A classic spring break destination

Cancun, Mexico , resonates with many as the classic beach getaway, and for good reason.

With its spectacular stretches of Caribbean beaches , vibrant street life and rich cultural heritage, Cancun offers a complete package.

Here, you can soak up the sun on powdery white sands, dive into the crystal-clear waters, or explore the bustling markets and lively nightlife. The city is a hub of activity where every turn promises a new adventure, whether it's a boat trip across stunning Nichupté Bay, known for its fascinating wildlife, or a day exploring ancient Mayan ruins nearby.

Where to stay : The Canopy by Hilton Cancun La Isla offers a luxurious stay with stunning sea views. Plus, the hotel's Wander Rooftop pool provides an unbeatable spot to watch the sunrise. Rates start at $183 or 52,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Cancun

Colorado: For those who still want winter

If you're not quite ready to say goodbye to winter, Colorado is the perfect spring break destination, especially this year, with many people having spring break in March due to Easter.

Did you know March is often the best time for skiing in Colorado? This is when winter sports destinations like Colorado see some of their prime ski conditions.

Related: Best ski resorts in Colorado for everyone from beginners to experts

As the darker days of winter fade, the snow in Colorado is typically at its best. Ski resorts often boast their deepest snow bases in March, thanks to continuous snowfall and spring storms that bring heavy, moisture-rich snow. This makes for excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions, combining the thrill of winter sports with the more comfortable early spring temperatures.

Moreover, most Colorado ski resorts stay open until April, giving you plenty of time to hit the slopes during spring break. Whether you're a seasoned skier or looking to try something new, Colorado's snowy peaks offer an exhilarating escape for those who aren't quite ready to let go of winter.

Where to stay : The Limelight Hotels , located in adventure-driven locations, make the experience even more special. Imagine your kids scaling a five-story climbing wall or learning ski tricks from a pro. For the days you prefer relaxation, the hotel's luxe amenities provide the perfect backdrop. Rates start at $259 per person, per night for a Limelight Denver or $1,089 per night at Limelight Aspen.

Orlando, Florida: The classic spring break option for families

Disney and Orlando are classic picks for a family-friendly spring break.

The magic of Disney World , with its iconic attractions and beloved characters, offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for kids and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for adults.

The excitement doesn't stop at Disney; Universal Studios brings your favorite movies to life with thrilling rides and shows. Orlando 's warm spring weather is perfect for those looking to enjoy the outdoors, and the city's variety of dining and shopping options cater to families of all tastes and budgets. With a range of accommodations, from posh resorts to cozy hotels, every family can find their ideal stay.

Where to stay : The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes' new multi-million-dollar renovation includes inspired family suites, a poolside restaurant and yes, even a water park. Just a short drive to Disney World makes this luxurious, sparkling new property a win for the entire family. Rates start at $470 per night or 56,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in March and April.

Hawaii: For those who want adventure and relaxation

Hawaii is not just another beach destination; it's a whole vibe. You get the best of both worlds here — thrilling adventures and chill-out spots. Snorkeling in Hawaii is like jumping into a postcard, with water so clear and full of life. And if hiking is your thing, the trails here take you through lush forests and up to some pretty epic volcanoes.

But hey, it's not all go-go-go. Hawaiian beaches are perfect for just kicking back and soaking in the sun. Each island has its own personality. Oahu's got the buzz with places like Waikiki Beach, while Kauai is more about taking it easy and enjoying the quiet.

You won't struggle to find a cool place to stay. Whether you're looking for luxury or something more low-key, like a cozy cottage, Hawaii's got it. And the food? Get ready for some amazing seafood and local treats.

So, whether you're flying solo, hanging with your partner, bringing the family, or on a trip with friends, Hawaii hits the spot. It's a mix of adventure, relaxation, and just plain beauty. For a spring break that's a bit of everything, Hawaii is where it's at.

Where to stay : Waikiki Malia is the perfect mix of opulence that's easy on the wallet. The 18-story hotel is just one block from the famed Waikiki Beach in the center of some of the best shopping and dining in Honolulu (sales tax in Honolulu is just 4.5%). Spring break months of March and April are seeing prices from $164 per night for a Waikiki view, two-double room.

Related: The best hotels and resorts in Hawaii

Los Angeles: For a city and nature escape

Los Angeles , affectionately known as La-La Land, is a fantastic choice for spring break. It's a city where there's always something happening. If you're into the glitz and glamor, Hollywood's iconic sights are a must-see.

But that's just the start. LA's beaches are perfect for those sunny spring days, whether you're up for surfing or just lounging on the sand. For the adventurers, hiking the Santa Monica Mountains offers some breathtaking views and a bit of a workout. And let's not forget about the food — LA's culinary scene is incredible, with everything from trendy food trucks to high-end restaurants.

Where to stay : Hotel Amarano Burbank, a secret gem, offers a luxury boutique close to Hollywood and Universal Studios. Rates start at $224 per night during March and April.

Related: The 27 best hotels in Los Angeles for your next visit

Charleston, South Carolina: For foodies

For a spring break centered around amazing food, Charleston is the place to be. This South Carolina city is renowned for its culinary scene, with streets lined with top-notch eateries. From the upscale delights at FIG to the comfort of Callie's Hot Little Biscuit, your taste buds are in for a treat. While the charming cobblestone streets and pastel beach houses add to the city's allure, the flavors of Charleston truly shine. After indulging in the local cuisine, you can walk it off in the historic district or along the sparkling beaches. Don't forget to explore the downtown area, which is rich in both history and culinary gems.

Where to stay : In the heart of historic Charleston stands the Mills House Charleston, Curio Collection by Hilton . The property is within walking distance of some of the best dining options in the city. However, the Mills House holds its own with elevated Southern Coastal fare at the Iron Rose Restaurant, and its all-day cafe, The Black Door Cafe. Rates start at $339 per night or 80,000 Hilton Honors points in March and April.

Related: The 17 best hotels in Charleston, from historic inns to modern stays

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia: For history buffs

Are you a history buff looking for a spring break that's a bit out of the ordinary? Try Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia . It's a living history museum where you can wander through blooming gardens, explore art museums and dive into interactive historical adventures.

Learn about the Revolutionary War at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, then see the past come alive at the Jamestown Settlement. Dining is a throwback to places like Chowning's Tavern, serving up dishes from yesteryear. Don't miss Merchants Square, where shopping meets 18th-century charm.

Where to stay : The Williamsburg Lodge, Autograph Collection offers visitors true 18th-century styling with Chippendale fretwork and unique furnishings within modern amenities. It's in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, so history buffs will feel as if they're living in the past. Rates start at $169 per night or 30,000 Marriott Bonvoy points in March and April.

National Parks, USA: Perfect for roadtrippers

Thinking about a road trip for spring break? You've got to check out the U.S. National Parks .

Start with Zion National Park — those arches are like driving through a giant, natural art gallery. Yosemite ? Wow, it's like rolling right into your computer's wallpaper with its lush meadows and huge mountains. And the Grand Canyon is a must-see. It's massive, and the views will blow your mind.

Each park is a whole new world, filled with cool sights and fun things to do. And for those who love a good road trip, try the Golden Circle route. It ties all these amazing spots together, making the journey as awesome as the destinations.

Where to stay : With five camps located along the Grand Circle (near Grand Canyon, Moab, Zion and Lake Powell) and open for the season by spring break, Under Canvas and ULUM Moab deliver upscale, outdoor accommodations that allow guests to retreat in nature's best without the hassle of camping. Rates for a late March or April stay start at $649 per night.

Related: These are the best new hotels that opened in 2023

Paris, France: For a city escape

Paris during spring break is an experience like no other.

Known as the City of Light, it's perfect for all kinds of travelers. For history buffs, Paris is a treasure trove with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Art lovers will be in heaven, wandering through galleries like the Musée d'Orsay.

Foodies, get ready for some of the best pastries and cafe experiences in the world. Strolling along the Seine or exploring the charming streets of Montmartre, you'll feel like you're in a movie.

And for those seeking romance, Paris in spring, with its blooming gardens and picturesque cafes, is as romantic as it gets. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple or a family, Paris offers a blend of culture, history and beauty, making it an unforgettable spring break destination.

Where to Stay : Hotel des Grand Voyageurs is an elegant and intimate treasure. Escape into the nobility of old-world Europe without sacrificing the welcoming warmth of today. Grandeur and class ooze from every room, while the hotel's own restaurant and bar offers fantastic dining. Rates start at $270 for a March or April one-night stay.

Related: The best hotels in Paris

Costa Rica: For the adventure seeker

Costa Rica , a gem for adventure seekers, is a spring break paradise with rainforests, volcanoes and beaches — all in one place.

You can zip line in Monteverde, feeling the rush as you soar above the cloud forest. Then, hit the waves at Jaco or Tamarindo; they're a surfer's dream. And let's not forget the thrill of white water rafting on the Pacuare River. It's not just about the adrenaline, though.

Wildlife is everywhere. Sloths, monkeys, a burst of tropical birds — all living freely in national parks like Manuel Antonio. And the commitment to eco-friendliness is real here. It makes your adventure not just exciting but also responsible. Oh, and the warm, welcoming vibe of the locals? It's the cherry on top.

Where to stay : The Botanika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton is a great jumping-off point for adventures in Costa Rica. Rates start at $220 or 66,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Related: The 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica for beach visits or hiking trips

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: A fun-filled alternative to Disney

Consider swapping the Disney crowds for the charm of Dolly Parton's world in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee .

It's an ideal spot for families looking for a fun-filled vacation without the Disney hustle. Pigeon Forge boasts an impressive array of amusement parks and attractions. Take Dollywood , for example: With more than 40 rides, including thrilling roller coasters and water adventures, it's a hit for all ages.

Related: My '9 to 5' sent me to sleep in Dolly Parton's $10,000 tour bus suite — here's what it was like

But there's more to this Smoky Mountain town . The Island at Pigeon Forge is an entertainment hub with a giant Ferris wheel offering breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, a challenging ropes course for adventurous families, plus a variety of unique shops and local eateries.

And for a mix of fun and learning, WonderWorks is an interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits that kids absolutely love. For a family getaway that's both entertaining and relaxed, Pigeon Forge is a fantastic choice.

Where to stay : Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is a family-friendly hotel with mountain views and real rustic Southern charm. Families will adore sitting by the fire pit on their patio, while kids will appreciate the pool's epic waterslide. Best of all, Dollywood is just a 3-mile drive. Rates start at $145 per night or 37,000 Hilton Honors points in March and April.

Seychelles: An exotic (and luxurious) escape

The Seychelles? It's like a little piece of heaven on Earth, perfect for anyone who loves a bit of extravagance with their adventure.

With 41 ancient granite islands and 74 dreamy reef islands, it's seriously like stepping into a postcard of paradise. This place is all about upscale, unique experiences. If you love stunning views, exclusive beaches and feeling like you're in a world of your own, you'll fit right in.

The Seychelles is tailor-made for those who enjoy the finer things in life but still want that touch of wild, natural beauty. So, if sipping a fancy drink on a private beach or snorkeling in crystal-clear waters sounds like your idea of a good time, this is your spot.

Where to stay : The Mango House , an LXR property by Hilton , is a magnificent gem of a property tucked along the oceanfront of the Anse Aux Poules Bleues. You'll rest in one of their 41 sea-facing villas listening to the hushed tones of the waves after eating at one of their five marvelous fine dining options. Rates start at $551 or 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night in March and April.

Scotland: A unique family adventure

Scotland is an exceptional choice for a unique family spring break, especially if you're not set on a beach-centric holiday.

Spring in Scotland is a time of rejuvenation, where the landscapes burst into vibrant colors and the days grow longer, offering more time to explore. It's a playground for families who love adventure and history.

Imagine wandering through ancient castles, uncovering stories of knights and legends, or hiking through the lush, green Highlands, with scenery straight out of a fairy tale. The cities, like Edinburgh and Glasgow, are brimming with culture, from interactive museums to street performances, all kid-friendly and educational.

Related: How to spend 1 day in Edinburgh

Plus, the chance to spot some of Scotland's iconic wildlife, like red deer or golden eagles, adds an exciting twist to the trip. Scotland offers a blend of outdoor activities, historical exploration and cultural experiences that create unforgettable memories for the whole family, away from the usual beach crowd.

Where to stay : Gleneagles is an adventure playground for the entire family. With its new "Children's Welcome Experience," kids can become explorers, while adults indulge in elegance. It's an ideal blend of adventure and relaxation in a stunning natural setting. Rates at Gleneagles start from $730 based on two adults and two children under 14 sharing a room, including breakfast. Interconnecting rooms are available at an additional fee.

Related: Edinburgh's Gleneagles Townhouse: A city hotel that's costly but close to perfection

8 Wonderful Reasons to Travel to France in Springtime

Inspiration

Eco-Durable Nature and Outdoor Activities Cities Spring

Flâneries printanières dans les jardins du Château de Valmer, dans le Val de Loire.

Reading time: 0 min Published on 25 March 2024, updated on 22 April 2024

If the return of spring makes your desire to travel blossom, come to France! This time of year is so beautiful. You can enjoy the gentle rays of sunshine on the terraces, stroll through parks and gardens in full bloom, and walk quietly along the seashore, in the mountains or in the countryside. Benefit from the longer days to experience great exhibitions and joyful festivals. An ideal time to engage all of your senses before the summer rush.

Enjoy the Beautiful Days without the Crowds

From Brittany to the French Riviera, from Normandy to the Basque Country, from the Bay of the Somme to Corsica, not to mention the creeks of Provence or the great Dune du Pilat in the Bay of Arcachon, France has bountiful options for a seaside getaway. From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, small charming harbors, sandy beaches, and enchanting creeks punctuating the coastal landscapes. In the spring, you won't find a sea of beach umbrellas and towels blocking your view of the ocean. The scenery is all yours to enjoy during a stroll along a coastal trail sentier du littoral or a gourmet picnic, in complete privacy.

In the warmth of spring, even the bustle of French cities can be enjoyed with greater pleasure. On the main boulevards or along piers of the Seine in Paris, on the Old Port in Marseille, in the alleys and covered passages of the Old Lyon, and in all the cultural heritage sites, the air seems lighter and you can enjoy sightseeing at your own pace.

Like it was meant to be!

Experience Nature Come to Life

Balade à vélo au Col de la Faucille, dans les Montagnes du Jura.

Does spring make your heart feel happy and restless at the same time? With 22,800 kilometers of cycling routes and greenways, 3,000 road and mountain bike paths, 11 national parks, 54 regional nature parks, and 180,000 kilometers of marked trails, France invites you to come for a ride!

The return of good weather and ideal temperatures for walking, cycling, riding, and sailing gives you a front-row seat to observe chamois and marmots in the Alps or Pyrenees. Count the sleeping volcanoes amongst the daffodil meadows in Auvergne, pick wild garlic in the Vosges or in the intoxicating blue wild hyacinth-scented undergrowth in Normandy, and sail through flowering locks on the beautiful canals of Alsace, Burgundy, and Brittany. Be one with nature and explore many peaceful and inspiring itineraries to gently awaken all your senses.

Savor Seasonal Products

A Blois, dans le Val de Loire, le chef du restaurant Fleur de Loire puise son inspiration dans les produits de son potager.

Tender peas, tasty asparagus, new potatoes and carrots, fava beans, crisp radishes, and beautiful big salads. There's a spring party in the vegetable garden! Gone are the hearty winter dishes, long live the beautiful green markets with their abundant gourmet stalls. Place des Lices in Rennes in Brittany, the Wazemmes district in Lille in the Hauts-de-France, Sarlat in the Périgord, Cours Saleya in Nice or under the Halles de Narbonne in Occitanie.

In France, every region, city, and village has a taste for gastronomy and enjoys sharing recipes that are enhanced by local products. More and more chefs are incorporating a type of cuisine that respects farm-to-table sourcing of seasonal products . Did you say locavore ? Yes! And for the latest and greatest places to go, Fleur de Loire , Christophe Hay's starred restaurant, a stone's throw from the Chambord castle. It is home to a large permaculture vegetable garden with an incredible asparagus grove with 50 varieties. Spring explodes with flavor.

Foraging in parks and gardens in Paris and the surrounding area

Avec l'arrivée du printemps, les parcs et jardins de Paris comme le parc des Buttes-Chaumont offrent une pause détente aux visiteurs.

Squares on almost every street corner, large elegant and romantic gardens, Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes; with more than 400 parks and gardens, Paris is the most wooded capital in Europe! In spring, it's a bloom of greenery and as many places for walks or bucolic breaks, between a shopping trip and a visit to a museum. If you have to choose? Between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, the flowerbeds of the Jardin des Tuileries host each year the magnificent event "Jardin, Jardin" .

Spring is also the best season for a trip to Versailles where the Potager du Roi, just a stone's throw from the castle, can be discovered in its most beautiful vegetable and fruit gardens. Likewise, a spring excursion to Giverny , in Normandy, is the height of happiness. Claude Monet's gardens exult in colors and scents. And of course, the Loire Valley and its beautiful castles , from Chambord to Chenonceau, from Azay-le-Rideau to Villandry, they are an apotheosis as the art of gardens from April.

10 family walks in the green lungs around Paris

A breath of fresh air in the mountains

On profite des températures douces du printemps pour s'oxygéner en montagne comme ici à Peyragudes, dans les Pyrénées.

What if you tried the mountains in spring? For skiers, the snow is usually still there, with the assurance of optimal sunshine and long days. The resorts in the Alps, but also in the Pyrenees, the Vosges and the Jura take care of the festivities (concerts, exhibitions, gastronomy, farm outings, meetings with craftsmen and their know-how...), and also the prices, which become almost as mild as the temperatures in April and May.

For all, it is the occasion to linger on the terrace when the resorts are already taking on a little summer air. Everywhere you go, you can smell the fresh grass and the flowers ready to grow under the snow. There is no better season to take a deep breath of fresh air while winter and spring pass the baton between nature activities and alpine skiing. Some high-altitude resorts like Val Thorens are playing it safe by keeping their ski area open until the beginning of May.

Discover the spring activities offered by mountain resorts

Taking care of yourself

Séance bien-être en plein air à l'hôtel Sofitel Quiberon Thalassa Sea and Spa, en Bretagne.

It's time to get out of the winter cocoon! To revive numb bodies and regain energy and vitality, France is an ideal wellness destination . Along its 2,000 kilometers of coastline, it combines spring with the ocean in some fifty thalassotherapy centers with state-of-the-art facilities. On the Atlantic coast, from Brittany to the Basque Country, the good weather invites you to head for Saint-Malo, Quiberon, La Baule, Pornic or Saint-Jean-de-Luz for fitness cures and treatments at lower prices than the rest of the year.

Do you prefer the cocoon spa of a charming hotel or a Palace? France has a wide range of beautiful addresses. In Paris alone, the Ritz Club &Spa Sense, A Rosewood Spa at the Hôtel de Crillon or the spas at the Mandarin Oriental , the Four Seasons George V or the Lutetia. A rebirth of body and mind that can also be enjoyed, in harmony with the first buds, at the Sources de Caudalie , in the vineyards near Bordeaux, or at altitude, in the Alps at Courchevel.

Extend the evenings on the terrace

A Bordeaux, le printemps rime avec bains de soleil aux terrasses de cafés comme ici sur la Place du Palais.

Spring equinox on March 19, change from winter to summer time on the night of March 30 to 31, 2024. You don't need to be a specialist to understand that the days will get longer and even longer. An ideal time to enjoy what the French do so well and are so fond of: to settle down on the terraces of cafés, restaurants, bistros, in the streets, on the squares to welcome the first rays of sunshine and to linger while enjoying the mild spring evenings.

A good idea? Take a little height to feel the good vibrations of the return of beautiful days. In Paris and all over France, rooftops have flourished in recent years. Among the new star spots not to be missed this spring: the Sky bar of the new TOO Hotel at the top of the Duos Towers to have Paris at your feet or, on the roof of the Samaritaine, the well-named Tout Paris and its charming garden from which the view goes from Montmartre to the Eiffel Tower, passing by Notre-Dame and the Louvre colonnade.

Fill up on exhibitions and festivals

Séance de cinéma en plein air pendant le Festival de Cannes, sur la Côte d'Azur.

In France, culture is celebrated to the rhythm of the four seasons, but spring marks the great return of festivals with the aptly named "Printemps de Bourges" launching the festivities. We also "jazz" under the apple trees in Normandy and in Paris, "We Love Green" goes green in the Bois de Vincennes. On the Côte d'Azur, it's the cinema that takes all the light with the Cannes Film Festival, while on the exhibition side, spring promises exceptional encounters: "The Orientalists" at the Atelier des Lumières, "Robert Ryman" at the Musée de l'Orangerie, "Vertiges" at the Bourse de Commerce and "Paris 1874, inventing Impressionism" at the Musée d'Orsay to mark the 150th anniversary of Impressionism in 2024. We also take advantage of the mild temperatures for great sporting events: the mythical Paris Marathon or the French Tennis Open at Roland-Garros. What a way to crown spring with a beautiful energy!

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By Redaction France.fr

The magazine of the destination unravels an unexpected France that revisits tradition and cultivates creativity. A France far beyond what you can imagine…

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Dear Deidre

The UK garden named as one of the best places to see cherry blossoms, bluebells & tulips in the world

Jane Cook , Senior SEO Editor
Published : 16:40, 26 Apr 2024
Published : Invalid Date,

WHEN imagining spring gardens, Elmstead Market may not be the first place to come to mind.

However, an attraction near the Colchester Village has been named one of the best spring bloom gardens in the world by Lonely Planet.

Beth Chatto's Plants & Gardens

Beth Chatto was a renowned gardener and writer, famous for winning numerous medals at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and designing the Chatto Gardens (now called Beth Chatto's Plants & Gardens).

Transforming a wasteland of boggy ditches and brambles, Beth Chatto's Plants and Gardens looks nothing like it did back in 1960.

By using a technique of ecological planting, Beth Chatto found the right plants for various, hard-to-grow locations.

This method transformed an area that presented problems, such as dry and infertile land, into an otherworldly paradise.

In recent years, the attraction has gone on to claim TripAdvisor 's Traveller's Choice award, VisitEngland Gold status and now a place on Lonely Planet's best spring bloom gardens for UK travellers list upon their release of The Joy of Exploring Gardens book.

Stretching 7.5 acres, visitors can stroll through five different types of gardens:

Gravel - a showcase of plants that love drought
Scree - alpine plants grown on slopes
Water - a collection of ponds and lush plants
Woodland - home to many shade-loving plans
Reservoir - a newer garden with a variety of late-seasonal plants

The site also includes a nursery which has 2,000 varieties of flora and fauna and a gardener's shop.

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Almost as pretty as its gardens, Chatto's tearoom serves locally sourced pastries, baked goods as well as appetizing sandwiches.

Adult tickets booked online start from £13.95, students from £6.95 and children between the ages of 2-16 £3.50.

Purchasing tickets on the day from the Visitor Information Centre will incur an additional £1 to the ticket cost.

Anyone coming in by bus or cycle can receive a 25 per cent discount.

Spring Blooms

Although the garden is great to see in all seasons, it is between the end of March and the first half of June that's the best time to visit.

From carpets of bluebells of daffodils and snow-like white cherry trees, the attraction is best seen in spring.

With an onsite nursery, guests can even purchase some of the flowers themselves.

This means anyone can take a piece of Beth Chatto's Plants & Gardens back with them.

Due to the site's variety of blooms, some flowers may have already blossomed, while others will only have started.

Differences in seasonal weather may also affect the timing of spring blooms, so it is worth following the garden's social media.

Typically, cherry trees blossom between March and May, while daffodills start to flower as early as February.

Depending on the type of tulip, you can expect the bloom to start from March to May.

And bluebells are expected to flower between late March to early May.

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Similar to Beth Chatto's Plants & Garden, Alnwick's world-famous garden boasts the largest Japanese cherry tree orchard in the world.

And here we've compiled the prettiest places to see bluebells in the UK this Spring.

Best gardens to see spring blossoms in the UK

Other gardens that make Lonely Planet's list include:

Alnwick Garden , Northumberland
The Crawick Multiverse, Scotland
Beth Chatto's Plants & Gardens, Colchester
National Botantic Garden of Wales, Llanarthney
Sissinhurst Castle Garden, Kent

Throughout the year, the site hosts a variety of workshops and attractions

Staycation tips and ideas

StarsInsider

The best places to see the spring blossom in the UK

Posted: March 19, 2024 | Last updated: March 19, 2024

<p>There is nothing better than spotting the early signs of spring. In this gallery, take a look at the UK's top parks, gardens, and woodlands to see the blossom this spring.</p><p>You may also like:<a href="https://www.starsinsider.com/n/182220?utm_source=msn.com&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=referral_description&utm_content=344596v2en-us"> The Empire State Building: beautiful pics and interesting facts</a></p>

There is nothing better than spotting the early signs of spring. In this gallery, take a look at the UK's top parks, gardens, and woodlands to see the blossom this spring.

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The plants at the Eden Project in full bloom. The Eden Project in Cornwall is the world's largest greenhouse, showcasing 100,000 plants from around the world.<p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-7xx8mnucu55yw63we9va2gwr7uihbxwc68fxqp25x6tg4ftibpra?cvid=94631541bc0f4f89bfd59158d696ad7e">Follow us and access great exclusive content every day</a></p>

The Eden Project, Cornwall

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Kew Gardens, London

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St James' Park

St James' Park, London

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Regent's Park, London

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Pentland Hills, Edinburgh

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Hyde Park, London

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Visitors can get lost in the maze gardens surrounding Henry VIII’s famed palace. <p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-7xx8mnucu55yw63we9va2gwr7uihbxwc68fxqp25x6tg4ftibpra?cvid=94631541bc0f4f89bfd59158d696ad7e">Follow us and access great exclusive content every day</a></p>

Hampton Court Palace, London

The palace garden hosts also an annual flower show during the first weeks of July, where gardeners and enthusiasts gather to see the latest floral creations.<p>You may also like:<a href="https://www.starsinsider.com/n/429765?utm_source=msn.com&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=referral_description&utm_content=344596v2en-us"> Coronavirus culprits: Bizarre excuses people made to violate lockdown</a></p>

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On the grounds in and around the Houses of Parliament lies an abundant display of Mount Fuji Blossoms, Weeping Cherries, and Camellias among other trees and shrubs. <p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-7xx8mnucu55yw63we9va2gwr7uihbxwc68fxqp25x6tg4ftibpra?cvid=94631541bc0f4f89bfd59158d696ad7e">Follow us and access great exclusive content every day</a></p>

The Houses of Parliament, London

The National Botanic Garden of Wales

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Mayfair, London

Bluebells begin to bloom in West Woods near Marlborough in Wiltshire.<p>You may also like:<a href="https://www.starsinsider.com/n/452908?utm_source=msn.com&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=referral_description&utm_content=344596v2en-us"> Ridiculous jobs celebs hired people to do for them</a></p>

Marlborough , Wilshire

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Brandon Park, Bristol

Rapeseed flowers blossom in a field close to the village of Tormarton. Rapeseed oil can be altered to produce bio-diesel which is why the plant has become one of the most popular crops grown by farmers in the UK.<p>You may also like:<a href="https://www.starsinsider.com/n/475143?utm_source=msn.com&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=referral_description&utm_content=344596v2en-us"> The worst injuries in Olympic history</a></p>

Tetbury, Gloucestershire

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The garden grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea is covered in a variety of wild and garden flowers in spring.<p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-7xx8mnucu55yw63we9va2gwr7uihbxwc68fxqp25x6tg4ftibpra?cvid=94631541bc0f4f89bfd59158d696ad7e">Follow us and access great exclusive content every day</a></p>

Royal Hospital Chelsea, London

Fans of crocus flowers can see them in bloom outside the Circus in Bath.<p>You may also like:<a href="https://www.starsinsider.com/n/494084?utm_source=msn.com&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=referral_description&utm_content=344596v2en-us"> The most absurd female deaths in literature</a></p>

Bath, Somerset

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Spring flowers bloom outside the front gates of Buckingham Palace.<p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-7xx8mnucu55yw63we9va2gwr7uihbxwc68fxqp25x6tg4ftibpra?cvid=94631541bc0f4f89bfd59158d696ad7e">Follow us and access great exclusive content every day</a></p>

Buckingham Palace, London

Alnwick Garden is a contemporary pleasure garden adjacent to Alnwick Castle in Northumberland. The garden features various themed planting sites.<p>You may also like:<a href="https://www.starsinsider.com/n/496346?utm_source=msn.com&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=referral_description&utm_content=344596v2en-us"> 30 films you have to watch once in your life</a></p>

Alnwick Garden, Northumberland

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Royal Victoria Park is an English garden-style family park dedicated to the late Queen Victoria. Guests can experience its many attractions including an 18-hole mini golf course, climbing frames, zip lines and a skate park. <p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-7xx8mnucu55yw63we9va2gwr7uihbxwc68fxqp25x6tg4ftibpra?cvid=94631541bc0f4f89bfd59158d696ad7e">Follow us and access great exclusive content every day</a></p>

Royal Victoria Park, Bath

A flowerbed arrangement at Weston Park in Sheffield. <p>You may also like:<a href="https://www.starsinsider.com/n/500982?utm_source=msn.com&utm_medium=display&utm_campaign=referral_description&utm_content=344596v2en-us"> English words that have a different meaning in other languages</a></p>

Weston Park, Sheffield

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<p>The Plantation Garden in Norwich is a beautiful Victorian, Gothic-style garden in the city centre. The garden boasts flowerbeds, Gothic fountains, an Italian terrace, a cathedral, and woodlands.</p> <p>See also: <a href="https://www.starsinsider.com/travel/340942/the-beauty-of-spring-around-the-world">The beauty of spring around the world</a></p><p><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/community/channel/vid-7xx8mnucu55yw63we9va2gwr7uihbxwc68fxqp25x6tg4ftibpra?cvid=94631541bc0f4f89bfd59158d696ad7e">Follow us and access great exclusive content every day</a></p>

The Plantation Garden, Norwich

The Plantation Garden in Norwich is a beautiful Victorian, Gothic-style garden in the city centre. The garden boasts flowerbeds, Gothic fountains, an Italian terrace, a cathedral, and woodlands.

See also: The beauty of spring around the world

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10 Best Places to Travel in August

Celebrate the arts, relax in nature, and embrace peak summer with lively fests this month..

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Picture your ideal summer . Is it heading to an idyllic far-flung island for some enriching R&R? Perhaps it’s heading to the wilderness of Canada ’s easternmost reaches to hike in bracing, salty air and sunshine? Or could it be a short-haul jaunt to boogie down to some disco classics off-season in the Caribbean ?

Well, we have you covered if you crave any of these trips for your summer vacation—and we have more ideas, too, with our top picks for the best places to travel in August.

People along the shoreline of a beach with a green mountain in the background

Come to Curaçao for its small, secluded beaches and its music.

Photo by Tony Dunn

August is great for: Retro-minded music fans ready to boogie

It’s back, after a five-year, pandemic-sparked hiatus: The North Sea Jazz Festival returns to this Dutch Caribbean island for a three-day event over the last weekend of August. The name is a misnomer, as it’s really a retro-minded fest, aimed at offering crowd-pleasing performances from classic artists across all genres.

In 2024, expect to see Seal and Marc Anthony recapture their 1990s glory days, and hustle through the sets of disco pioneer Nile Rodgers and redoubtable soul diva Gladys Knight. There’s even a performance scheduled for Eros Ramazzotti, the heartthrob who’s Italy’s answer to Enrique Igelsias. The music plays across three different stages, right by the water, so you can stroll to the beach if you need a break from the dance floor.

Where to stay: Dreams

Book now: Dreams

Indulge a little and stay at one of the new all-inclusive concepts cropping up all over the Caribbean. In Curaçao, try the outpost of Hyatt-owned Dreams, right on Piscadera Bay next to the concert venue.

How to get to Curaçao

This is a vacation hub, so the air connections are fittingly convenient: Try United Airlines from EWR or Delta from Atlanta, among others.

Green hills with spaced rows going through it

Tea farming earns Sri Lanka more than a billion dollars each year.

Photo by maheshg/Shutterstock

2. Sri Lanka

August is great for: Adventures in the misty highlands

In August, Sri Lanka’s monsoon months of June and July recede but the occasional shower keeps the vegetation of this wild island in full bloom. Many of those plants, of course, are the camellia sinensis , whose budding shoots are turned into world-class tea across the countless Sri Lankan plantations. Explore the history and culture of tea via a visit to farms, many in the central highlands (sample some of the finest at Nuwara Eliya Plantation).

And this month is also a chance to glimpse the Buddhist traditions of the island. From August 10 to 20, the Kandy Esala Perahera takes place, or the festival of the tooth of Lord Buddha. It’s one of Sri Lanka’s most important festivals and will feature musicians and dancers partying in celebration, all in honor of the procession where Buddha’s tooth is carried through the streets of Kandy, which sits on a plateau amid those tea plantation highlands.

Where to stay: Kotiyagala Luxury Villas

Book now: Kotiyagala Luxury Villas

The brand 12-villa, all-pool, resort opens in Yala National Park in June, with a sustainable design by local, award-winning architect Mano Ponniah—the hotel sits elevated above the canopy level of the forest so as to minimize the intrusion of the local environment.

How to get to Sri Lanka

It’s a long trip to reach Sri Lanka, wherever you start out stateside. Try one of the Middle Eastern carriers, like Qatar: From Chicago, for example, you’ll take a 13-hour first leg, breaking in Doha, before the second, five-hour hop to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital.

Group of people with mime-themed face paint on a European street

Spot performers on the Royal Mile during the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Photo by Jan Kranendonk/Shutterstock

3. Edinburgh, Scotland

August is great for: Spotting the next Oscar winner making a live debut.

Think of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe as a combination of Broadway, Saturday Night Live, and the Groundlings —a comedy-skewing live performance fiesta with more than 3,000 shows taking place across 250 venues over almost four weeks (from August 2 to 26 this year). The dizzyingly full schedule is constantly updated, so download its app for the easiest planning.

By far the world’s largest performing arts festival, the Fringe was established soon after World War II. Since then, it’s proved a spotting ground for future superstars at the earliest stages of their careers. It cost intrepid festivalgoers just a few pounds to see the likes of the late Alan Rickman (aka Professor Snape from the Harry Potter film series), Mr. Bean actor Rowan Atkinson, and comedian turned chat show host Graham Norton make their debuts here in the past. Many of this year’s emerging talents will likely follow in their fame-finding footsteps.

Where to stay: Prestonfield House

Book now: Prestonfield House

The location alone, right next to Arthur’s Seat, makes this 23-room boutique hotel compelling, but its lush, maximalist decor and the romance of crashing in a building that dates back to the 17th century—not to mention its own, 20-acre gardens —are the clinchers.

How to get to Edinburgh

You’re in luck: There’s a range of options in summer for direct nonstop flights, whether United from EWR, Delta from BOS, or even Virgin Atlantic from MCO.

The crashing waves and thrashing currents of the north Atlantic barrel into Africa right here, and create superb swells as they do.

Photo by Karol Kozlowski/age fotostock

August is great for: Catching a wave in the Atlantic

Morocco’s northern coast, facing the Mediterranean, is well known; indeed, we tipped you off to the renewed buzz on Tangier. But the lesser-trafficked east coast, overlooking the Atlantic, has an appeal all its own, especially for anyone interested in surfing.

Consider Oualidia if you’re keen, but not pro: A lagoon there allows the ocean to squeeze in through a narrow opening, which better paces the wave patterns or venture to Sidi Kaouki, on a mile long stretch of sand where the waters are equally manageable. More practiced Hang Tenners can try Les Tomates, a renowned spot a little further south, or even try to catch a tube wave near the fishing town of Safi, where the swells are widely recognized as among Africa’s finest.

You could also head to Essaouira, which offers superb kite-surfing as well as surfing, thanks to a confluence of sirocco winds from the Sahara and seasonal Atlantic trade winds. Otherwise, consider Taghazout, where there are facilities for all levels, be it mellower options around Panorama, or Anchor Point, a world-class break first popularized by adrenaline-chasing Australians in the 1960s.

Where to stay: La Sultana Oualidia

Book now: La Sultana Oualidia

Hide out in this oasislike hotel, a reimagining of a one-time Moorish fortress with just a dozen rooms, each with a private terrace and Jacuzzi.

How to get to Morocco

The easiest option is to fly to Casablanca, where most long-haul flights touchdown. Try national carrier Royal Air Maroc, which flies non-stop from cities including Miami and New York City. The spiffy new high-speed train, Al Boraq, can shuttle travelers up and down the country.

Row of colorful European buildings by a body of water

Gdańsk is located on Poland’s Baltic coast.

Photo by Zbigniew Guzowski/Shutterstock

5. Gdańsk, Poland

August is great for: Attending a fair older than America itself—and then some

St Dominic’s Fair is one of the largest and oldest open-air markets in the whole continent; this year, it’s running through August 18. The tradition dates back eight centuries (yes, more than 750 years) when the then-Pope extended leeway to locals around the founder’s feast day. That indulgence eventually resulted in a month-long fair where treasures like silk, spices, cloth, and other goodies were traded, all against a boisterous backdrop full of parties and performances. It was largely abandoned as a result of World War II, but was revived in the 1970s. It’s now bigger and better than ever, with more than 1,000 artisans and traders shilling their wares, mostly suitcase-sized, souvenir-ready trinkets like picture frames.

Combine a trip to this traditional fiesta with some time by the sea: Gdańsk, a longtime shipping hub, sits on the Baltic in a region once known as the Polish Riviera. Try the family-friendly Stogi Beach, or take a short taxi ride outside town to the Sobieszewo promontory for a quieter, more nature-forward afternoon by the water.

Where to stay: Gotyk House

Book now: Gotyk House

Fittingly for a centuries-old fair, bunk down in this 15th-century family home that’s been converted into a shabby chic boutique hotel, with antique-filled rooms and a cozy vibe.

How to get to Gdańsk

Hop on national carrier LOT’s direct, non-stop service from JFK to the capital. From there, it’s a four-hour drive from Warsaw to Gdańsk.

Come to Washington D.C.'s wharf area for some jazz in August.

Photo by AevanStock/Shutterstock

6. Washington D.C.

August is great for: Celebrating the city’s signature musical style

DC JazzFest , which runs over two days from August 31, is celebrating its 20th anniversary and pays homage to the city’s connection with this musical tradition; composer Duke Ellington lived here, and the jittering, intense Bebop style of music and dance emerged here. It takes place on the wharf, where there are restaurants and shops aplenty, and you can even watch performances for free from the promenade there. Last year’s lineup included the smooth-voiced crooner Gregory Porter among its headliners,

Even better, for bargain-minded travelers, the event coincides with D.C. Restaurant Week, a chance to sample its toniest eating spots at a bargain with lunches from $20 per head and dinners from $40.

Where to stay: Pendry Washington D.C.

Book now: Pendry Washington D.C.

New restaurants and hotels have reinvigorated Washington, D.C.’s wharfside, including the 2022-opened Pendry Washington D.C. With minimalist rooms and a prime location near restaurants, bars, and activities, it’s a great choice, especially for those traveling with kids.

How to get to Washington, D.C.

Take your pick on flights—the city’s well-networked across the country—but also consider Amtrak if you’re in the Northeast, espeically its sleek, reliable Acela service.

Green field with mountains in the background

Head to Big Sky for the Wildlands Music Festival, which runs from August 2-3.

Photo by thierry dehove/Shutterstock

7. Big Sky, Montana

August is great for: Big Sky Country, literally.

It’s Big Sky Country for sure this month, thanks to the Wildlands Music Festival , on the first weekend in August. It lures major names from the country music circuit to perform here, with headliners for 2024 including Maren Morris and Dierks Bentley; Wyatt Flores and Lukas Nelson will also perform.

This festival is expressly staged as a conservation event, with profits earmarked for wildlife and river preservation in and around the area. Last year, more than half a million dollars was generated and donated to the Gallatin River Task Force and American Rivers, which aim to safeguard waterways. Just make sure to bring some rainwear: Last year’s al fresco bash was bedeviled with unseasonal showers, though it didn’t stop headliners like the Foo Fighters from taking the stage.

Where to stay: Montage Big Sky

Book now: Montage Big Sky

The three-year-old resort sits just an hour from Yellowstone National Park . Luxe but rugged rooms feature stone and wood detailing, a natural nod to the log cabin lifestyle that once dominated here.

How to get to Bozeman

Fly into the fireplace-festooned Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, which is around an hour’s drive from Big Sky. There are direct nonstops on United (Chicago), Delta (Los Angeles), American (Dallas), and JetBlue (New York JFK).

The dramatic highlands of Cape Breton Island are often likened to those in Scotland.

Photo by Wally Hayes/Nova Scotia Tourism

8. Nova Scotia, Canada

August is great for: Dark skies, bright days and midtempo music

Cape Breton Island has a thrillingly diverse cultural heritage, with a palpable Acadian presence from the settlers who came from France in early colonial days—try rappie pie or rapûre , the chicken-and-potato dish that’s one of their signature hand-me-downs. The Lunenburg Folk Harbour Festival from August 8-11 offers a program of folk music that emphasizes acapella singing and acoustic instruments as well as the Clare Bluegrass festival over the same period, where the program’s intended to reflect and highlight the Acadian traditions here.

Come in summer, and you can stroll those wild hillsides by day or by night. Nova Scotia was the first North American destination to receive a Starlight Certification by the U.N. tourism-supported foundation , a nod to the pristine, light pollution-minimized state of its night skies. Join a walk in Kejimkujik Park, especially over Dark Sky weekend, this year from August 2 to 4.

Where to stay: Cabot Cape Breton

Book now: Cabot Cape Breton

The perfect summer hideaway, this 72-room lodge has ocean views from every room, as well as 46 holes of golf and a mile or more’s worth of sandy beaches, right near the Cabot Trail, the 186-mile-long hiking path that quilts Cape Breton Island.

How to get to Cape Breton Island

The best international airport to access the island is YHZ, or Halifax, which has direct non-stops to Philadelphia and Washington D.C. on American Airlines. From there, it’s a 3.5-hour drive to the tip of the Maritimes. If you’d rather fly all the way, connect to YQY airport out east via Toronto or Montreal .

Aerial view of city with a cathedral in the center

Don’t miss the chance to check out the city of Cork on Ireland’s southwestern coast.

Photo by Madrugada Verde/Shutterstock

9. Cork, Ireland

August is great for: Kissing the Blarney Stone, whoever you are

This month there are several events that make this town appealing, notably the Pride festival takes place on August 5th, a reminder of Ireland ’s newfound acceptance of LGBTQ+ communities (it legalized equal marriage mere months after the USA, in 2015, and by popular consent, to boot, via a national referendum on the issue). There’s also the Cork on a Fork Fest later in the month, with five days of food demos, masterclasses and talks. Don’t leave town without a pint of two—Guinness or otherwise—at one of the historic pubs in town, like the Mutton Lane Inn, a dark wood-lined den that’s almost 200 years old.

Remember, even though it’s midsummer, a light sweater or two will come in handy in Cork: Its position on the Atlantic means that even this month, there can be crisp spells.

Where to stay: The Montenotte

Book now: The Montenotte

This four-star, 107-room modernist hotel sits on a hill just outside the city center, with spectacular views over the harbor—don’t miss lunch or dinner at the hotel’s flagship restaurant, Panorama, which relies heavily on locally sourced Irish produce.

How to get to Cork

There are no direct long-haul flights to Cork from the USA. Instead, fly to Shannon or Dublin—all of DHS paperwork’s completed before you board, which means you land stateside as if you were a domestic passenger. There’s ample service on Aer Lingus to either airport from the USA (it serves 14 U.S. airports). The three-hour drive from Dublin down to Cork is a bonus chance to soak up the countryside.

People walking around red and white tents by a harbor

Think Maine, think lobster—and come to the seaside town of Rockland this month to truly relish in the state’s popular dish.

Photo by Wangkun Jia/Shutterstock

10. Rockland, Maine

August is great for: Forgetting the summer diet for the best possible reasons.

For five days, Rockland becomes a crustacean celebration with the Maine Lobster Festival (this year, from July 31 to August 4), with more than 70,000 visitors to gorge on freshly caught, fresh-cooking lobster overlooking Penobscot Bay: Take your pick between turnovers, rolls, salad, bisques, deep fried dumplings, and more.

There’s more to the bash, with a cooking festival for those keen to show off their kitchen prep schools, and a 10K road race . The highlight, though, is Sunday afternoon’s Great Crate Race , where anyone foolhardy and athletic enough can sign up to try to scamper across 50 lobster traps strung together like a bobbing obstacle course across the harbor. This is a true community effort, staffed almost entirely by local volunteers and run by a nonprofit that siphons all the money made back into Midcoast Maine community programs.

Where to stay: 250 Main Hotel

Book now: 250 Main Hotel

The 26-room hotel right in the heart of town means you can walk to or from the festival (and dry off more quickly if you tumble during the Crate Race). It’s refreshing contemporary, featuring bright accent colors and flat screen TVs.

How to get to Rockland

The only flight to Rockland’s airport is operated by regional carrier Cape Air, from Boston. Hacking the trip, head to Portland, ME, which has seasonal service to a range of cities including Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Charlotte. Then drive up to Rockland, a scenic detour that takes around 90 minutes.

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

Northern lights over Kirkjufell in Iceland.

Getty Images

The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Northern lights over Pyhae Luosto National Park in northern Finland.

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

Northern lights over a lake in the Scottish Highlands.

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

Two people sitting on a the ice of a lake and watching the northern lights in the north of Sweden.

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

Northern lights over Reynisfjara black sand beach in Iceland.

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Northern lights reflected in water with mountains in eastern Greenland.

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

A pool by windows overlooking the ocean on a Viking cruise ship.

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Northern Lights shine through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Forest.

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Northern lights seen from Abisko Mountain Station in Abisko, Sweden.

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

Northern lights above a snowy track through trees in the Arctic.

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

The aurora australis as seen over the South Pole during austral winter.

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

Central and northern Alaska
Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
Southern Greenland
Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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The best places to see the spring blossom in the UK
The Plantation Garden, Norwich. The Plantation Garden in Norwich is a beautiful Victorian, Gothic-style garden in the city centre. The garden boasts flowerbeds, Gothic fountains, an Italian ...
10 Best Places to Travel in August 2024
Recent stories have led him to hang out with China's trendsetters in Chengdu and learn fireside raps from cowboy poets in Wyoming. These are the 10 best places to travel in August 2024, which include Edinburgh, Scotland, Washington D.C., and Morocco.
The 18 Best Places to See the Northern Lights
Getty Images. Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's ...

20+ Most Beautiful Spring Destinations In The World

Top Spring Destinations In The World

Paradise Island

Canals of Amsterdam

Brockway Mountain

Keukenhof Tulip Gardens

Reynisfjara Beach

Skopelos Island

US Virgin Islands

Dubai Miracle Garden

Golden Isles of Georgia

Playa del Carmen

Cabo San Lucas

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The 50 Most Stunning Spring Destinations In The World

Castelluccio, Umbria, Italy

Alishan National Scenic Area, Taiwan

Douro Valley, Portugal

Giverny Monet’s Garden, France

Washington, D.C.

The Brooklyn Botanical Garden, New York

Lisse, Netherlands

Caceres, Spain

Furano, Japan

Central Park, New York

Seoul, South Korea

Hill Country, Texas

Greek Islands

Northumberland, England

Hitachi Seaside Park, Hitachinaka, Japan

Sugar Hill, New Hampshire

Vancouver, Canada

Hallerbos, Belgium

Sognefjorden, Norway

Portland, Oregon

Bonn, Germany

Ashikaga Flower Park, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan

Yosemite National Park, California

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Skagit Valley, Washington

Monterey Bay, California

Channel Islands, Normandy

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee / North Carolina

Crested Butte, Colorado

Lausanne, Switzerland

Cape Floral Kingdom, South Africa

Bartram’s Garden, Pennsylvania

Seryang-je, Hwasun County, South Korea

Menorca, Spain

Savannah, Georgia

Mojave Desert, California

El Hierro, Canary Islands

Cotswolds, England

Pokhara Valley, Nepal

Olympic National Park, Washington

Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

Provence, France

Luoping, China

Dublin, Ireland

Pltivice National Park, Croatia

Glacier National Park, Montana

The Uists, Scotland

Kitzbüheler Horn Wildflower Garden, Austria

Redwood National Park, California

Rose Valley, Bulgaria

30 Places to Travel This Spring

San Diego, CA

Cartagena, Colombia

Crete, Greece

Phoenix, AZ

Copenhagen, Denmark

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Glasgow, Scotland

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Tokyo, Japan

Amalfi Coast, Italy

New York City, NY

Amsterdam, The Netherlands