Five unmissable spring getaways
Chase away the winter blues and witness Europe in bloom with an unforgettable springtime escape.
As winter nights set in, it can be all too easy to jump straight to the summer months for warm-weather escapes in the sun - but there’s certainly a case to be made from European escapes in the spring. From wandering through The Netherlands’ bulbfields in bloom to an immersive stay in Spain’s spectacular Andalucían centres, discover wish-list experiences closer to home in the spring.
Whether you’re exploring under milder temperatures, taking in each destination away from the crowds or enjoying a trip at a lower price, there are plenty of things to love about off-peak travel. As we gear up for another year of memorable travel, our team has been thinking about their favourite springtime retreats across the continent and here are five of our top picks.
Keukenhof Gardens, The Netherlands
The Dutch lowlands are transformed each year by blankets of flowers and there’s nowhere better to see western Europe’s springtime colours than the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens. Based outside Amsterdam, this magnificent public garden becomes the staging ground for millions of flowers in bloom and is at its most vibrant throughout April and May. Whether you’re marvelling at its renowned tulip fields or wandering around the manicured crocuses, daffodils and wildflowers, Keukenhof promises an injection of colour to any Dutch getaway.
Our wish-list moment: Marvel at The Netherlands’ most impressive botanical garden at its most vibrant as you wander through colourful wildflower meadows, manicured floral displays and Keukenhof’s famous tulips.
Our recommended tour – Amsterdam & the Dutch Bulbfields
The Western Fjords, Norway
Though it’s a country often associated with the winter, owing to Scandinavia’s magnificent arctic landscapes, Norway’s natural world is at its most dramatic in the spring. From the spell-binding Northern Lights to the blazing Midnight Sun, the nation’s celestial wonders are most active from April to May, while the thawing winter’s ice causes the region’s rivers and waterfalls to swell with even more vigour!
Our wish-list moment: Soak up the most impressive sights of Norway’s western fjords with an express boat trip through its inner passages to historic Bergen, the Hanseatic ‘Gateway to the Fjords’.
Our recommended tour – The Beautiful Fjords of Western Norway
Andalucía, Spain
Dominating the country’s south coast, Andalucía offers the perfect base from which to enjoy the warmer Mediterranean climate while exploring its fascinating medieval centres. Enjoy the best of the Spanish south coast away from the buzz of the summer’s holidaymakers with springtime stops in Andalucía’s majestic former capitals. Take in the region’s Moorish red palace, La Alhambra, admire Seville’s famous orange trees in bloom, and watch the region’s historic centres adorned with floral crosses during the annual Cruces de Mayo (Crosses of May) celebrations.
Our wish-list moment: Move to the lively rhythms of the flamenco and witness impressive, impromptu performances as you explore Seville’s orange-tree-laden streets.
Our recommended tour – Majestic Cities of Andalucía
Vilnius, Lithuania
Often overlooked in favour of warmer climates, the Lithuanian capital and its Baltic neighbours boast a number of inspiring experiences to enjoy in between city visits. Immerse yourself in cultural events steeped in tradition, watch the streets turn pink with Sakura blossoms and witness the region’s sprawling national parks as the local wildlife emerges from their winter hibernation. Those travelling even earlier in the year (March) can even take part in the city’s famous Spring Equinox celebration which sees the banks of the River Neris and Vilnius’ greenspaces lit by intricate arrangements of candles and lanterns.
Our wish-list moment: Delve into the Baltic states’ rich pagan traditions with a wander through Vilnius’ delightful solstice celebrations and see the city’s sprawling green spaces illuminated by lanterns and candles.
Our recommended tour – Baltic Capitals – Tallinn, Riga & Vilnius
Tirana, Albania
A hidden gem on the idyllic Adriatic Coast, Albania is home to heroic folklore and a range of diverse cultural influences – neither of which are more apparent than in Tirana’s Skanderbeg Square. This plaza was created to memorialise the national hero of the same name in the heart of historic Tirana. Here, you’ll also see the Et’hem Bej Mosque, Tirana Clock Tower, National Historical Museum, and the Palace of Culture.
Our wish-list moment: Enjoy a taste of rural Albanian life with a visit to picturesque Gjirokastër and take in the sights, sounds, and smells of its bustling old Bazaar.
Our recommended tour – Classic Albania - Land of the Eagle
Secure your spring escape with Newmarket Holidays
Discover the world away from the buzz of the summer holidaymakers, and under cooler temperatures, with the help of one of our dedicated holiday planners. Give our friendly team a call to get the ball rolling on your next escape or visit our website for full details.
