So much more than rainy weather and gray skies, April is bursting with possibilities — you just need to know where to go. For picture-perfect destinations full of blooming flowers, gorgeous hiking trails, and Easter festivities, look no further as you’ll find all of this and more in our rundown of April’s must-visit destinations.
1. Be hopelessly romantic in Venice
The go-to destination for starry-eyed lovers, springtime in Venice is a dream. Head to the floating city on April 25th to celebrate Festa di San Marco, or St. Mark’s Day, with the locals. This romantic celebration is the stuff of legend (an actual legend). On this day, Venetian men give the leading ladies in their lives a bòcolo, or ruby-red rose. Stroll (or glide) along the many charming canals and join the festivities. Round off your experience with a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica, where you can take in the impressive architecture and Byzantine art.
2. Get adventurous in Cyprus
Think a trip to Cyprus is just about lounging on white sand beaches? Think again. The adventurous among us can explore the island on a quad bike or on foot in the Troodos Mountains. If you’re looking to take it slow, tour rural villages and wineries before marveling at the charming Kelefos bridge in the Paphos Forest. Visitors in April will also get to enjoy an island in full bloom. Head to the Akamas Peninsula to be surrounded by a colorful array of wildflowers. More than just pretty, these blooms make for a fantastic backdrop for your vacation photos.
3. Stroll through Japan’s cherry blossoms
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Japan. Known for its cherry blossoms, April is the month to visit if you want to spy the famous pink beauties. Pro tip: cities like Osaka and Kyoto are prime destinations to spot (and snap) the best blossoms. Not only do they offer interesting historical sites, but also incredibly delicious food. Not to be overlooked, Tokyo is also a popular destination for sakura-hunters. The megacity’s parks are covered in pink flowers and make for a perfect place to relax. You can even get a local to show you a true cherry blossom experience in Nakameguro, one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods.
4. Explore the versatile Canary Islands
The question isn’t if you should visit the Canary Islands, but rather which of the seven islands to go to first. And if you’re wondering when to visit, the title of this article is more than just a hint. In April, you can explore Lanzarote’s volcanoes and caves and Fuerteventura’s mountains and canyons minus oppressive summer heat. Tenerife’s famous Mt. Teide is also most pleasantly hiked during spring. You’re spoiled for choice as (you guessed it) Gran Canaria is well worth a visit in April as well. Rent a Vespa and discover the island’s beaches, stunning sand dunes, and windy mountain roads.
5. Dance through the night in Seville
There’s no bad time to visit Seville as it’s home to Alcázar and the Cathedral of Seville, two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. If you plan your visit around the week leading up to Easter, you’re in for a real treat. The city comes alive to celebrate Semana Santa, the holy week leading up to Easter Sunday. Take in the spectacular festivities and watch as the people of Seville parade decorated wagons with statues through the streets. If you find yourself dancing long after the parades pass you by, a flamenco dance lesson might be just the thing to take your skills to the next level.
6. Surf your heart out in New South Wales
In April, New South Wales’ weather is past its sweltering peak and you’ll still get to enjoy the last remnants of summer. Temperatures range in the 70s (mid-20s in Celcius), which is ideal for relaxing on Sydney’s plentiful beaches or exploring the unique landscape of the Blue Mountains. If you ever wanted to learn how to surf, Byron Bay is the place for you. Whether you’re sunbathing on Bondi Beach, wandering around the Opera House, or relaxing on a cruise, you’ll never want to leave New South Wales.
7. Pick pink roses in Oman
Oman is a truly underrated gem that has all you need for a peaceful vacation — especially if you’re a sunseeker. A royal blue ocean and impressive mountain scenery await while a mouthwatering culinary scene can be found among the whitewashed houses of Muscat. From Muscat, it’s easy to swim under the sun in a Wadi, an oasis in the desert. Visitors in April will also witness the famous damask rose harvest. This amazing spectacle takes place high up in the mountain villages of Oman.
8. Discover the Algarve’s stunning coastline
Explore one of the prettiest regions in Portugal without having to hide in the shade. In April, temperatures are perfect for relaxing on one of the many beaches (although the water is still pretty cold). If you want a break from the beach, visit the spectacular cliffs and lighthouse of Cape St. Vincent, the most southwestern point of mainland Europe. And if views weren’t enough, the Algarve’s coastline is home to a number of magnificent caves and rock formations, including the spectacular Benagil Caves.
