The best places to visit in the spring

Spring lifts the spirits of travellers all around the world, with its big blue skies and flowers in bloom. For many, there's no better time to travel. If you're thinking about getting away, here are our editors' picks of the best places to visit in the spring.

Osaka, Japan

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.

What to do

Explore Osaka with a local foodie and indulge in local delicacies such as oden or okonomiyaki.

Osaka Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms © Shuttertong/Shutterstock

Alentejo, Portugal

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 – the native storks should be returning from their winter holidays around now too.

Where to stay

What to do

If you're staying in Lisbon, make use of one of the many day tours to Alentejo, such as this full-day tour to Evora and the Megaliths.

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

New Orleans, USA

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.

Where to stay

For classic New Orleans charm: Hotel Maison de Ville

When you conjure mental images of New Orleans, chances are that Hotel Maison de Ville is largely what you are picturing. Dripping with classic New Orleans charm from head to toe, the historic three-story property occupies one of the oldest structures in the French Quarter, with luxurious rooms equipped with balconies overlooking the action along Toulouse Street.

What to do

New Orleans is famous for its music scene. After spending a night on Frenchmen Street for Live Jazz, take a cruise for the next night - a unique experience onboard a steamboat listening to cool jazz and enjoying a delicious dinner.

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

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

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 in a canal-boat ride, or take a trip including fast-track to the unforgettable Keukenhof gardens. 25km out of town, tulips bloom in spectacular colours from late-March to mid-May in beautiful ornamental arrangements.

Where to stay

For Inventive design: Hotel De Hallen

There’s plenty of buzz surrounding the stunning conversion of this 1902 tram depot. Original features, such as rails in the dining-room floor, and the vaulted glass ceiling, have been kept intact, and the 55 rooms seem to be suspended within the structure.

What to do

What would Amsterdam be without it's canals? Take either a day or night cruise (or both) to explore the city.

Keukenhof gardens © MarinaD_37 /Shutterstock

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The Wye Valley, Wales

The Wye Valley is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and for good reason. The river itself is fantastic for canoeing and kayaking, and the hills will please walkers. And, even if you're not into birdwatching you'll rejoice at the sight of the gorgeously flecked goshawk engaging in its so-called ‘sky dance’. Its mate-attracting display of flying prowess is a spring phenomenon.

The rolling green hills of the Wye Valley © Matthew Dixon/Shutterstock

The Romantic Road, Germany

Travelled on foot, by bike or car, the scenic 400km Romantic Road from Würzburg to Füssen takes in medieval walled towns, traditional villages with half-timbered houses, vineyards and the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein. It's undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Europe in spring. This picture-perfect route through Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg was created to attract visitors after WWII. More than sixty years later it's hugely popular and often overrun by the summer months. Go in spring instead and enjoy the bright greens and chilly mornings.

Where to stay

Best for design flair in Munich: The Flushing Meadows

A top choice for those with an eye for interior design. It emanates style, with minimalist decor and funky artworks throughout. Plus, there’s a brilliant rooftop bar and restaurant serving excellent coffee and cocktails.

What to do

Neuschwanstein is an easy day tour from Munich and can also be combined with the beautiful Linderhof castles.

Neuschwanstein castle surrounded by forest, Germany © Francesco Carucci/Shutterstock

Cornwall, England

Cornwall is packed with good restaurants – and plenty of activities to help burn off all that delicious food. Set out for a wander on the moors as spring flowers bloom, or go a dip in the sea if you're brave (or mad). Don't worry if a spring storm rolls in while you're visiting – the waves make for an incredibly dramatic scene.

What to do

The final series for Doc Martin has been confirmed - visit the fictional seaside village of Portwenn and discover the main locations of this popular TV show.

Bedruthan Steps in northern Cornwall © PJ photography/Shutterstock

The Loire Valley, France

The Loire Valley’s sleepy villages are just shaking off their winter chill around now, while out in the vineyards buds are starting to burst and wildflowers are cropping up along the riverside. Whether you’re in search of a truly memorable cuvée or the most magnificent château, spring is a great time to visit.

What to do

Marvel at the amazing landscape from high up in the air - a hot air balloon ride allows for birds-eye views of the valley, incredible views guaranteed!

Chaumont-sur-Loire castle, France © Mistervlad/Shutterstock

Essaouira, Morocco

For active types, the popular seaside town of Essaouira makes for a perfect long weekend getaway in spring. With pleasant temperatures and strong winds – locally known as the alizee – it's a prime location for windsurfing and kitesurfing. It's one of the best places to visit in the spring for adventure enthusiasts. And if you're not drawn to the waters, you can enjoy afternoons strolling past the whitewashed and blue-shuttered houses, nipping into art galleries and sipping on mint tea.

Where to stay

The medina has the most accommodation options in Essaouira, where you can choose from cosy riads like Dar Azma and Riad O Gre du Vent to spacious guesthouses like Villa Maroc.

What to do

Get out the city and explore the sand dunes on a quad bike. Adventure meets nature!

The walls of Essaouira at sunset © Ruslan Kalnitsky/Shutterstock

Brittany, France

The jagged Brittany coastline is a wonderful place to explore – full of secret coves, quiet beaches, and spots to sup cider and watch the world drift by. Springtime is a particularly appealing season. Charter a boat and head to the Îles de Glénan for a spectacular display of colour, then enjoy a well-earned crêpe complete in a cosy crêperie.

Camaret-sur-Mer with wildflowers in Brittany, France © Bouchigny Claire/Shutterstock

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