As winter's chill wanes, the allure of spring beckons travelers to explore the vibrant and rejuvenating destinations worldwide. Whether you're seeking the best places to travel in March, looking for the warm places to visit in March, or planning ahead with spring vacation ideas, our curated list ensures your travel desires are met. From the romantic streets of Italy and the historic charm of Egypt to the blooming beauty of the Netherlands, every location promises a unique springtime adventure.
Revel in the moderate temperatures and less crowded marvels of Italy's iconic cities and countryside. From the picturesque canals of Venice to the historic ruins of Rome, Italy is among the best places to visit March-May.
The Tuscany Region in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Visit Tuscany in spring for stunning landscapes, mild weather, and blooming vineyards. Enjoy wine tastings, explore charming villages, and experience the region's rich cultural heritage without the summer crowds. It's the perfect time for a picturesque and authentic Tuscan getaway.
Discover Croatia's coastal splendor and natural parks, a hidden gem in Europe with pleasant weather and scenic landscapes making it one of the best places to visit in March. While the waters are still too cold for swimming, the sun is warm enough to be without a coat most days, making for empty beaches just as beautiful in the spring as in the crowded summer.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia in Spring
Why You Should Go:
This is also a prime time to visit Plitvice Lakes, one of Europe’s oldest and most unforgettable national parks. A can’t-miss highlight is the park’s winding boardwalk trail – offering travelers a chance to “walk on water” in one of Croatia’s most beautiful settings.
Experience the romantic bloom of France from the streets of Paris to the lavender fields of Provence, ideal for those seeking the best places to travel in April. When it comes to France in spring, you can’t go wrong. Our favorite places include Paris, Normandy, the Loire Valley, Provence, and the popular French Riviera. It’s warm enough to enjoy the sun on the beaches of Marseille or a delicious meal al fresco.
Paris, France in Spring
Why You Should Go:
The city of lights comes alive with the changing seasons. As florals bloom and lovers emerge from their Parisian flats, it’s the ideal time to explore this paradise. Wildflower blooms peak from March through May, leaving much of the country covered in color. Local markets open for the season, offering fresh produce and a taste of France’s regional cuisines.
Provence, France in Spring
Why You Should Go:
You’ll get to see the sweeping lavender fields, lush vineyards, pine forests, and olive groves of Provence. Discover hilltop villages like Gordes and Ménerbes in the Luberon mountains, explore the medieval Palais des Papes in Avignon, and lounge in the glamorous coastal towns of Cannes and Saint-Tropez along the Côte d’Azur. From late June, take a drive to the Dordogne region, where you’ll see rolling hillsides of blooming sunflowers – a stunning ode to spring.
Aix-en-Provence, France in Spring
Why You Should Go:
It might be a student town, but this place has a certain je ne sais quoi. It’s a chic, classy area with cobbled streets and boulevards to make you swoon.
Arles, France in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Step into the sun in Arles, a sun-soaked village known for inspiring master painter Vincent Van Gough. He so loved Arles that its vistas appear across more than 200 unique paintings by the artist. There is also a stellar Saturday market here worthy of getting lost inside!
Carcassonne, France in Spring
Why You Should Go:
This hilltop fortress town is the stuff of medieval fantasy. With watchtowers and double-walled facades, this UNESCO World Heritage Centre is off the beach trail and worth every step.
The French Riviera in Spring
Why You Should Go:
The French Riviera is simply stunning in Spring. Flowers bloom, the sun is warm, and the packed tourist season hasn’t yet begun. Experts say that locals are at their friendliest this time of year, fresh off a several-month break from the large, sun-seeking crowds. Spend your days on the water, in the water, or, if you’re feeling adventurous, plan your trip around one of the French Riviera’s many springtime festivals.
Nice, France in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Known for an enchanting promenade along the Mediterranean, you can’t beat the sunbathing and beaches of Nice.
Spring in Portugal means clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and fragrant wildflowers blanketing the countryside. Nature comes to life in Portugal in the spring and in the seaside capital of Porto, where locals happily venture out after the rainy winter season.
Spring is a great time to enjoy a Portugal trip; fewer crowds of tourists mean easier access to museums and top attractions and more opportunities to engage with the locals. There are also many options when it comes to exploring; whether you’re interested in sampling regional wines on a luxury river cruise of the Douro or admiring the lovely floral-covered homes of Obidos on a guided tour, you’re sure to find a trip that meets your interests.
The Douro Valley, Portugal in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Cruise the Douro Valley in spring to witness the region's lush vineyards and stunning landscapes in full bloom. Springtime offers pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring historic towns and savoring Portuguese cuisine on the riverbanks. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more relaxed and immersive experience while cruising through this UNESCO-listed wine region.
Like the other countries we’ve mentioned, Spain enjoys comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds from March to June. In the north, you can enjoy a delightful Mediterranean breeze while exploring the cosmopolitan capital of Barcelona, as well is easier access to popular highlights such as the Sagrada Familia Church, Park Guell, and Las Ramblas Boulevard.
A few hours south, Valencia bustles with flamenco dancers and live music. And Andalucía’s Costa Del Sol lives up to its name as the “Sunny Coast.” If you’re thinking of visiting Spain on a guided tour, we think you’ll find that spring is a great time to travel.
Valencia, Spain in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Visit Valencia, Spain in spring to enjoy ideal weather, with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Witness the city's vibrant culture come alive during the Las Fallas festival, a unique and colorful celebration featuring elaborate sculptures and fireworks. Explore the stunning Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences) and indulge in Valencia's renowned cuisine at outdoor terraces. Spring is the perfect time to experience the beauty and festivities of this Mediterranean gem.
Holland's Keukenhof Gardens and Amsterdam in Spring
Why You Should Go:
For us, Holland in spring conjures up images of tulips and windmills. Springtime in Holland has the fields looking like they’ve been touched by an artist’s brush. Quite literally striped in color, it feels impossible to look upon these fields and not feel small in their vastness. Rural landscapes overflow with vibrant colors, rivaling anything else you’ll see across Europe. One of the best ways to experience tulip season in the Netherlands is on a river cruise of Holland and Belgium, which showcases the awe-inspiring fields that inspired the paintings of Van Gogh and other artists (just be sure to plan ahead. These trips sell out far in advance).
Taking time to navigate the fields can sometimes be cumbersome on your own. Why not take a guided vacation then? Be sure not to miss the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens. Of course, there is more to do than enjoy tulips. In Amsterdam, you can enjoy a bike ride, a favorite pastime in the Netherlands, sample Dutch cuisine, and explore the city’s waterways, art museums, and quintessential architecture.
Whether you're searching for the best places to visit in March in the USA or contemplating the warm places to visit in May, our guide to the best places to travel in spring will navigate you through the season's finest offerings.
Spring is a wonderful time to visit national parks, as many of them come alive with blooming wildflowers, mild weather, and opportunities for outdoor activities. The best national parks to visit in spring can vary depending on your interests and location, but here are some notable options across the United States:
Yosemite National Park, California
Why You Should Go:
Waterfalls are at their peak flow in spring due to melting snow, creating breathtaking vistas. Mild temperatures and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to explore the park's stunning landscapes.
Zion National Park, Utah, in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Spring offers pleasant weather for hiking and exploring the unique red rock formations. The Zion Narrows can be less crowded and more manageable for hiking in the spring.
Grand Canyon National Park, Colorado, in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Spring provides comfortable weather for hiking along the rim or into the canyon. Wildflowers bloom on the canyon's rim, adding color to the landscape.
Acadia National Park, Main, in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Spring offers cool, crisp air and budding trees, making it a great time for hiking and birdwatching. Enjoy scenic coastal views and the opportunity to spot wildlife like seals and migratory birds.
Arches National Park, Utah, in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Springtime provides comfortable weather for exploring the park's numerous natural arches. Wildflowers add color to the red rock scenery.
Joshua Tree National Park, Califonia, in Spring
Why You Should Go:
Spring offers milder temperatures for rock climbing and hiking among the iconic Joshua trees. Wildflowers and even cacti may bloom in Spring the dry desert landscape.
There are many beautiful destinations around the world to visit in spring, offering a wide range of experiences from cultural exploration to outdoor adventures. Here are some great places outside of Europe and the USA to consider:
Why You Should Go:
Spring may just be the ideal time to visit Costa Rica. Not yet hot and humid and coming off of the drier, cooler winter season- this lush landscape may be at its finest in spring. Framed by the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Caribbean Sea to the east, Costa Rica presents a thick, green jungle environment in the shadow of the iconic Arenal Volcano.
Costa Rica Eco Trips in Spring
In addition to the white sand beaches and emerald-colored waters of Guanacaste Beach, Costa Rica also plays home to one of the world's most diverse flora, fauna, and wildlife populations. Plan a visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest or Tortuguero National Park to seek out things you may never have the opportunity to see again.
Why You Should Go (Cruise the Nile):
Take on one of the world's great rivers in spring and set sail down the mighty Nile. Opting for a Nile river cruise is a simple way to get a big bang for your buck since it’s one of the only truly all-inclusive vacation options. One price covers your room, board, drinks, and experiences. Many of these routes get you up close and personal to leading world destinations along the Nile including Egypt’s Giza Pyramids, the Sphynx, and the Luxor. With a river cruise, you get many destinations, without having to pack, unpack, and repack multiple times.
Why You Should Go:
Visit New Zealand in spring for stunning landscapes, mild weather, and fewer tourists. Spring brings vibrant blooms to the country's lush gardens and parks, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor adventures. With comfortable temperatures and less crowded attractions, it's the perfect time to explore the diverse natural beauty and cultural experiences that New Zealand has to offer.
Why You Should Go:
Visit Kyoto, Japan in spring to witness the enchanting cherry blossoms (sakura) in full bloom, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere in the city's historic temples and gardens. The mild weather makes it ideal for exploring Kyoto's cultural treasures, such as Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine. Spring also marks the season of traditional tea ceremonies and festivals, providing a unique cultural experience in this ancient Japanese city.
Why You Should Go:
Visit South Africa in spring for a safari experience like no other, with abundant wildlife sightings and pleasant weather. Witness the annual bloom of colorful wildflowers in Namaqualand, creating stunning landscapes. Spring is also an ideal time for whale-watching along the coast and exploring South Africa's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities while avoiding the crowds of the peak summer season.
Why You Should Go:
Visit Morocco in spring for pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes as the country bursts into color with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Spring offers an ideal climate for exploring bustling markets, historic cities like Marrakech and Fes, and the tranquil Atlas Mountains. Avoiding the scorching summer heat, you can enjoy a more comfortable and immersive experience while partaking in traditional Moroccan culture and cuisine.
Why You Should Go:
Visit Peru in spring to take advantage of the favorable weather and smaller crowds. Explore the iconic Machu Picchu and trek the Inca Trail with comfortable temperatures and lush landscapes. Spring also offers the opportunity to witness traditional festivals and cultural events, providing a rich and authentic Peruvian experience.
Spring is a delightful season for travelers to explore a variety of destinations around the world. From witnessing cherry blossoms in Kyoto, Japan, to savoring the beauty of blooming wildflowers in South Africa, spring offers a unique charm to each location. Whether you prefer the historic allure of Florence, Italy, or the cultural vibrancy of Valencia, Spain, this season provides ideal weather and unique experiences. Additionally, spring allows you to avoid the peak crowds and extreme temperatures in many destinations, making it an excellent time to embark on memorable journeys. So, consider planning your springtime adventures to these incredible places and create lasting memories.
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