Best Places to Visit in April 2025 – Top Spring Travel Destinations Around the World

April is one of the most magical months for travel. Spring is in full bloom across much of the Northern Hemisphere, and it's shoulder season in many destinations—meaning fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and better deals. Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms in Japan or soaking up Mediterranean sunshine before the summer rush, April opens up a world of adventure for every type of traveller.

Let’s dive into some of the best places to visit in April—each with its own special flavour, sights, and seasonal charm.

 

Kyoto, Japan

narrow alleyways kyoto

The cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is a beautiful blend of ancient temples, traditional teahouses, and timeless streets. With over a thousand years of imperial history, it's a place where past and present coexist gracefully—from the golden Kinkaku-ji Pavilion to quiet bamboo forests.

Why Visit in April

April is peak cherry blossom (sakura) season in Kyoto, transforming the city into a dreamy pink-and-white landscape. It’s a time of festivals, picnics beneath blossoming trees (hanami), and seasonal treats that celebrate spring’s arrival.

Weather in April

Expect mild and pleasant weather, with daytime highs around 18–22°C and cooler evenings. Occasional light rain, but nothing that dampens the experience.

Top Things to Do

  • Stroll the Philosopher’s Path lined with sakura trees

  • Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine with its iconic red torii gates

  • Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

  • Attend a geisha performance in Gion district

  • Take a boat ride on the Hozugawa River

What to Eat

  • Sakura mochi (cherry blossom rice cakes)

  • Yatsuhashi (cinnamon rice crackers)

  • Kaiseki ryori (seasonal multi-course meals)

  • Matcha everything—from lattes to soft serve

What to Take

  • Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be exploring temples and gardens)

  • A light rain jacket or travel umbrella

  • Layers for chilly mornings and evenings

  • A camera (trust us, you’ll need it)

Interesting Fact

Kyoto has over 1,600 temples, and it’s considered the birthplace of the Japanese tea ceremony.

 

Amsterdam, Netherlands

canal in amsterdam on a spring day

Known for its canals, tulips, bicycles, and creative spirit, Amsterdam is a city that offers beauty and intrigue at every corner. It’s both a historical treasure and a modern hub, with world-class art, cuisine, and an infectious laid-back vibe.

Why Visit in April

April is tulip season in the Netherlands, and the Keukenhof Gardens—just outside the city—burst into bloom with millions of flowers. Plus, King's Day (27 April) brings a city-wide orange celebration unlike anything else.

Weather in April

Crisp spring air with temperatures around 10–15°C. Sunshine mixed with the occasional shower—so pack a brolly!

Top Things to Do

  • Visit Keukenhof Gardens (open March–May)

  • Cruise the canals by boat or paddleboard

  • Explore the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum

  • Cycle through Vondelpark

  • Join the King’s Day street party

What to Eat

  • Stroopwafels (syrup-filled waffles)

  • Haring (Dutch raw herring—give it a try!)

  • Bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs)

  • Appeltaart (Dutch apple pie)

What to Take

  • A waterproof jacket

  • Layers (including a jumper or light coat)

  • Comfortable shoes for cycling and walking

  • Something orange to wear on King's Day

Interesting Fact

Amsterdam has more canals than Venice—over 100 kilometres of waterways weave through the city.

 

Seville, Spain

palace in seville spain

Flamenco beats, Moorish architecture, orange trees in bloom—Seville is Andalusia at its most enchanting. A sun-drenched city with a rich blend of cultures and a rhythm all its own.

Why Visit in April

April brings Semana Santa (Holy Week) and Feria de Abril, two of Seville’s most iconic festivals. Streets fill with parades, music, traditional dress, and a festive atmosphere that lasts late into the night.

Weather in April

Warm and sunny, with average highs around 24°C. It’s the perfect time before the sizzling summer heat kicks in.

Top Things to Do

  • See the processions of Semana Santa

  • Dance at the Feria de Abril

  • Visit the Alcázar Palace and its lush gardens

  • Climb La Giralda for panoramic views

  • Watch flamenco at an authentic tablao

What to Eat

  • Salmorejo (cold tomato soup)

  • Tortilla española (Spanish omelette)

  • Churros con chocolate

  • Tapas crawl through Triana neighbourhood

What to Take

  • Light breathable clothing

  • A hat and sunscreen

  • A shawl or cardigan for visiting churches

  • Dressy outfit for Feria nights (optional but fun!)

Interesting Fact

The Alcázar of Seville was used as a filming location for Dorne in Game of Thrones.

 

Washington D.C., USA

cherry blossoms in washington dc

The capital of the United States is more than politics—it’s filled with monuments, museums, leafy neighbourhoods, and cultural experiences that reflect the country’s diversity and history.

Why Visit in April

D.C. in April is all about the National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating the gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Japan in 1912. The blooms turn the National Mall into a sea of soft pink petals.

Weather in April

Springtime fresh with temps between 12–20°C. Mostly sunny, with the occasional breezy day.

Top Things to Do

  • Walk around the Tidal Basin under cherry blossoms

  • Tour the Smithsonian Museums (all free!)

  • Visit the National Zoo

  • Catch a baseball game (Go Nationals!)

  • Explore Capitol Hill and Georgetown

What to Eat

  • Half-smoke sausages at Ben’s Chili Bowl

  • Maryland blue crab if you’re feeling fancy

  • Cupcakes from Georgetown Bakery

  • Classic American brunch

What to Take

  • Smart casual outfits for city exploring

  • A comfortable daypack

  • Sunglasses and sunscreen

  • A picnic blanket if you’re planning to relax under the blossoms

Interesting Fact

The National Cherry Blossom Festival draws over 1.5 million visitors every year.

 

Marrakech, Morocco

marrakesh market at night

A vibrant, sensory overload in the best possible way—Marrakech is a city of spice-scented souks, ornate palaces, and rooftops where the call to prayer echoes at sunset.

Why Visit in April

April offers warm, sunny days without the oppressive heat of summer. It’s the ideal time to wander the Medina, sip mint tea on a rooftop, and take a desert trip to the Atlas Mountains.

Weather in April

Sunny and dry, with daytime highs around 25–28°C. Nights are cool, around 13°C.

Top Things to Do

  • Wander the souks of the Medina

  • Marvel at the Bahia Palace

  • Relax in a hammam spa

  • Explore Jardin Majorelle

  • Take a day trip to the Atlas Mountains

What to Eat

  • Tagine (slow-cooked stew)

  • Couscous with vegetables

  • Harira soup

  • Fresh orange juice from Djemaa el-Fna square

What to Take

  • Modest but breathable clothing

  • A scarf or shawl

  • Sunscreen and sunglasses

  • Comfortable sandals or walking shoes

Interesting Fact

Marrakech was once known as the Red City for its terracotta-coloured buildings and city walls.

 

Cape Town, South Africa

arial view of cape town south africa

Cape Town is a showstopper of a city. Nestled between dramatic mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, it’s a place where nature and culture collide—think vineyards, beaches, vibrant art, and rich history.

Why Visit in April

April is autumn in South Africa, bringing cooler temps, fewer crowds, and golden-hued landscapes. It’s ideal for hiking, wine tasting, and coastal road trips without the summer buzz.

Weather in April

Mild and pleasant—average highs of 20–25°C, cooler in the evenings. You might catch the odd rain shower, especially later in the month.

Top Things to Do

  • Take the cable car up Table Mountain

  • Explore the Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch & Franschhoek)

  • Drive the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive

  • Visit Robben Island

  • Watch penguins at Boulders Beach

What to Eat

  • Bunny chow (curried bread bowl)

  • Bobotie (a spiced meat dish with egg topping)

  • Braai (South African barbecue)

  • Malva pudding for dessert

What to Take

  • Layers (mild days, cool nights)

  • A light rain jacket

  • Comfortable hiking shoes

  • Swimwear for beach days or hotel pools

Interesting Fact

Cape Town is home to one of the world’s six floral kingdoms, and it's the only one contained within a single country.

 

Rome, Italy

river tiber in rome italy at sunset

The Eternal City is a living museum—every street corner tells a story, from ancient ruins to Renaissance art. Rome is all about atmosphere, history, and indulgence in the dolce vita lifestyle.

Why Visit in April

April brings Rome to life. It’s less crowded than summer, and spring blooms brighten up its historic piazzas. Easter festivities also bring a special atmosphere to Vatican City and beyond.

Weather in April

Mild and mostly sunny, with temperatures around 17–21°C. Occasional rain showers are possible.

Top Things to Do

  • Tour the Colosseum and Roman Forum

  • Marvel at the Vatican and Sistine Chapel

  • Throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain

  • Wander Trastevere and enjoy local cafés

  • People-watch in Piazza Navona

What to Eat

  • Cacio e pepe (peppery cheese pasta)

  • Supplì (fried risotto balls)

  • Carciofi alla romana (Roman-style artichokes—April is peak season!)

  • Gelato (of course)

What to Take

  • Stylish yet comfy walking shoes (cobblestones ahead!)

  • Layers for cool mornings

  • A cross-body bag (helps avoid pickpockets)

  • Something modest if visiting churches

Interesting Fact

Rome has more fountains (over 1,500) than any other city in the world.

 

Chiang Mai, Thailand

rural temples near chiang mai thailand

Set in the lush mountains of northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a city of ancient temples, night markets, and laid-back charm. It’s a spiritual and artistic hub with a slower pace than Bangkok.

Why Visit in April

Mid-April brings the Songkran Festival—Thailand’s water-soaked New Year celebration. It’s joyful, messy, and unforgettable. Just be prepared to get drenched!

Weather in April

Hot and dry, with highs around 35°C. While it’s toasty, the atmosphere is vibrant thanks to the festivities.

Top Things to Do

  • Celebrate Songkran (water fights galore)

  • Visit Doi Suthep temple

  • Take a Thai cooking class

  • Wander the Sunday Night Market

  • Get a traditional Thai massage

What to Eat

  • Khao soi (creamy curry noodle soup)

  • Sai ua (northern Thai sausage)

  • Mango sticky rice

  • Fresh coconut juice to cool down

What to Take

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing

  • A waterproof bag or phone cover (Songkran essential)

  • Sandals or water shoes

  • Sunhat and SPF

Interesting Fact

During Songkran, the whole country becomes one giant water fight—but Chiang Mai is considered the best place to experience it.

 

Istanbul, Turkey

blue mosque istanbul at sunset

Straddling two continents, Istanbul is a fusion of East and West—where ancient minarets pierce the skyline and fragrant spice markets sit alongside chic rooftop cafés. It’s a city of layers, history, and deeply-rooted hospitality.

Why Visit in April

April marks the start of spring and Istanbul’s Tulip Festival, when parks and gardens across the city explode with colour. The weather is perfect for exploring, and crowds are still moderate.

Weather in April

Pleasant and fresh—highs around 16–20°C, with occasional rain. It’s cool in the mornings and evenings, so bring an extra layer.

Top Things to Do

  • See the tulip displays in Emirgan Park and Gülhane Park

  • Tour the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

  • Cruise the Bosphorus at sunset

  • Shop the Grand Bazaar for souvenirs

  • Relax in a traditional hammam

What to Eat

  • Simit (sesame bagel) with cheese

  • Lahmacun (Turkish pizza)

  • Kebabs and meze

  • Baklava and strong Turkish tea or coffee

What to Take

  • A scarf (handy for mosque visits)

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Layers and a compact umbrella

  • A reusable water bottle for all the walking

Interesting Fact

Despite the tulip’s association with the Netherlands, it actually originated in Turkey—the Ottomans loved them long before they reached Europe.

 

The Azores, Portugal

lake in the azores islands

This lush archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean is Portugal’s best-kept secret. With volcanic craters, green pastures, black-sand beaches, and steaming hot springs, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers.

Why Visit in April

April offers wild, uncrowded landscapes and the start of whale watching season. Plus, the springtime wildflowers and waterfalls are in full swing.

Weather in April

Mild and changeable—think 15–19°C with a mix of sunshine and showers. The air is fresh, and the scenery is lush from winter rains.

Top Things to Do

  • Whale watching (over 20 species migrate through)

  • Soak in hot springs in Furnas

  • Hike Sete Cidades caldera

  • Swim in volcanic rock pools

  • Explore caves and lava tubes

What to Eat

  • Cozido das Furnas (a stew slow-cooked in volcanic soil)

  • Fresh seafood and limpets

  • Pineapple from São Miguel (incredibly sweet!)

  • Queijadas (local cheese pastries)

What to Take

  • Quick-dry clothes and light rain jacket

  • Hiking boots or trail shoes

  • Swimwear for thermal pools

  • Binoculars for whale spotting

Interesting Fact

The Azores are one of the best whale watching destinations in the world, especially in April when blue and sperm whales pass by.

 

The Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

night food market at galapagos island

A remote cluster of volcanic islands in the Pacific, the Galápagos is a living laboratory of evolution. Home to marine iguanas, giant tortoises, and playful sea lions, it’s a place where nature rules and wildlife is wonderfully fearless.

Why Visit in April

April is one of the best months to visit. The water is warm, the sea is calm, and animals are especially active—birds are nesting, tortoises are roaming, and snorkelling visibility is excellent.

Weather in April

Warm and humid—average temps of 26–30°C. Water temperatures hover around 25°C, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Top Things to Do

  • Snorkel with sea turtles, rays, and sharks

  • See the courtship dances of blue-footed boobies

  • Visit the Charles Darwin Research Station

  • Hike lava trails on Isabela Island

  • Watch marine iguanas sunbathe

What to Eat

  • Ceviche (fresh and tangy seafood)

  • Locro de papa (creamy potato soup)

  • Grilled fish with coconut rice

  • Exotic fruits like guanábana and passionfruit

What to Take

  • Reef-safe sunscreen

  • Snorkelling gear (optional but handy)

  • Quick-dry travel clothes

  • Water shoes and insect repellent

Interesting Fact

The Galápagos inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution after his voyage aboard the HMS Beagle in 1835.

 

Santorini, Greece

blue rooftops on the santorini coast

With its cliffside villages, whitewashed domes, and endless sea views, Santorini is one of Greece’s most iconic islands. Formed by a volcanic eruption, it’s a surreal mix of natural drama and Cycladic charm.

Why Visit in April

April marks the start of the tourist season—before the cruise ships crowd the caldera. You get all the beauty of Santorini with more space to breathe (and better photo ops!).

Weather in April

Mild and breezy, with temperatures around 17–21°C. Some days might be cool, especially after sunset, but the sun is usually shining.

Top Things to Do

  • Watch the sunset in Oia

  • Hike from Fira to Oia for epic views

  • Sip wine at a cliffside vineyard

  • Visit the ruins of Akrotiri (the “Greek Pompeii”)

  • Take a boat tour to the volcanic islands and hot springs

What to Eat

  • Fava me koukia (creamy yellow split peas)

  • Tomatokeftedes (fried tomato fritters)

  • Santorinian white wine (like Assyrtiko)

  • Baklava with local honey

What to Take

  • Windbreaker or light jacket

  • Sunglasses and sunscreen

  • Swimwear if you’re brave (sea is still cool!)

  • Dressy outfit for cliffside dining

Interesting Fact

Santorini was once a single island before a massive volcanic eruption around 1600 BCE collapsed the centre and created the caldera seen today.

 

Vancouver, Canada

vancouver city over looking the ocean

A city that truly has it all—ocean, forest, and snow-capped peaks. Vancouver is a playground for outdoor lovers, but it’s also a diverse urban hub with amazing food, art, and cultural festivals.

Why Visit in April

Spring hits Vancouver in full force in April. Cherry blossoms bloom throughout the city, and you can literally ski in the morning and kayak in the afternoon. It's a season of contrasts—and possibilities.

Weather in April

Cool but comfortable—averages around 12–15°C. Light rain is common, but that’s what keeps everything lush and green.

Top Things to Do

  • Walk or bike the Seawall in Stanley Park

  • See cherry blossoms in Queen Elizabeth Park

  • Visit Granville Island’s public market

  • Day trip to Whistler for late-season skiing

  • Explore the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

What to Eat

  • Fresh salmon (try it smoked or grilled)

  • Poutine (for Canadian comfort food)

  • Dim sum in Richmond (a hidden gem)

  • Craft beer and local cider

What to Take

  • Rain jacket and waterproof shoes

  • Layers for varying temps

  • A beanie and gloves if heading to the mountains

  • A GoPro for adventure days

Interesting Fact

Vancouver has one of the world’s largest urban parks—Stanley Park is even bigger than NYC’s Central Park.

 

Bhutan

cliffside temples in bhutan

Tucked between India and Tibet, Bhutan is a Himalayan kingdom where Gross National Happiness is more important than GDP. Monasteries cling to cliffs, dzongs rise from green valleys, and the people are warm, kind, and deeply spiritual.

Why Visit in April

April is one of the best times to visit—clear skies, blooming rhododendrons, and the famous Paro Tsechu festival, filled with masked dances and traditional rituals. It’s a peak cultural moment in a place unlike anywhere else.

Weather in April

Crisp and clear—around 12–22°C in the valleys, cooler in the mountains. Nights can be chilly, but days are typically bright and dry.

Top Things to Do

  • Hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang)

  • Attend Paro Tsechu festival (held in early to mid-April)

  • Explore Thimphu, the capital with no traffic lights

  • Visit Punakha Dzong, Bhutan’s most beautiful fortress

  • Trek through rhododendron forests

What to Eat

  • Ema datshi (spicy chilli cheese stew)

  • Red rice with seasonal vegetables

  • Momos (steamed dumplings)

  • Suja (butter tea)

What to Take

  • Warm layers for early mornings and high altitudes

  • Trekking shoes

  • A fleece or down jacket

  • Modest clothing for temple visits

Interesting Fact

Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world—it absorbs more carbon than it emits.

 

Let April be your passport to adventure. Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms, dancing flamenco, or exploring ancient cities under a spring sun, there's a world waiting just for you.

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