When it comes to spring destinations, the best destinations can mean different things.

For some, spring means blooming landscapes with vibrant colours of cherry blossoms (think Japan or even South Korea!)

But if you’re in the US or Europe, this is also the time when things are a bit more warmer with all the snowmelt opening up hiking trails, making strolls though historic neighborhoods the perfect way to spend time.

I have gathered stories from other travellers who have suggested their best spring destinations ranging from US city breaks to glorious places in Europe and Asia:

22 Best Spring Destinations in US, Europe & Asia

1. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara County is a world-renowned grape growing region for wine.

Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Santa Barbara is a charming small city on the California central coast.

With one day in Santa Barbara, some of the best things to do include visiting the historic Spanish Mission, walking down the pier, bike riding the ocean front pathways, and checking out internationally famous artists at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art.

Santa Barbara County is a world-renowned grape growing region for wine. If you're interested in wine, the Funk Zone neighborhood has no shortages of tasting rooms.

Try Pali Wine or the Santa Barbara Wine Collective, both with cozy outdoor patios.

If you want to visit a winery, you should head up to Solvang or to a specific winery like Sunstone in the Santa Ynez area. For food in the city, there are many great restaurants nearby the pedestrian-friendly promenade on State Street.

I recommend Zaytoon (Lebanese) or Loquita (Spanish). For the best coffee shops in Santa Barbara, try Dune or Handlebar, each of which have several locations around town.

Spring is a wonderful time to visit Santa Barbara because temperatures are very comfortable for outdoor activities and there is a low chance of rain.

During the spring, Santa Barbara celebrates Earth Day with one of the west coast’s largest and longest running Earth Day festivals.

Spring (especially March) is the best time to go whale watching in the channel for Pacific grey whales during their migration. You’re likely to see lots of other marine life like seals and dolphins too.

by Taylor from Taytrum Travels

2. Setubal, Portugal

In my opinion, as someone who’s lived here for more than three years, there is no better time to visit Setubal, Portugal than the spring.

The main draw to the city and the region is its beaches. And while you may be thinking the best time for that is in the summer, you’d be wrong.

Springtime temperatures are decidedly more comfortable, you can happily sit out in the sun all day without catching sun stroke (though still be careful and wear plenty of sunscreen) and the crowds simply haven't arrived yet.

Especially if you visit the beaches midweek, you could very well have a beach all to yourself.

From Setubal you can take the ferry across to Troia — which is actually the start of the longest uninterrupted stretch of sand in all of Europe.

Or if you want to stay closer to the city, you can enjoy Albarquel beach — at low tide you can walk along the cliffs from Rock a lot to Albarquel but at high tide you have to walk up and around along the road.

From there one of my favorites (which requires a car or a bus ride) is Galapinhos.

In addition to the amazing, quiet beaches, springtime brings in the season for a few of the region's best fish delicacies. Sardines, a local speciality, start to hit tascas (small, local restaurants) in May.

And the last of the very best oysters are still out through April but are gone by summer.

And come June you’ll start seeing signs that read “ha caracois” all around town. This means simply “there are snails” a Portuguese delicacy which is delicious and buttery and a must try!

by Caitlin from Everything Setubal

3. South Korea

Spring in Korea isn’t just about pretty flowers, the weather is also incredible

Spring in South Korea is a pastel-colored dream that makes you feel like you are inside a romantic K-drama.

From late March to mid-April, the entire country blooms with cherry blossoms, yellow forsythia, and lavender rosebay. Although Japan often has the spotlight when it comes to cherry blossoms, Korea offers equally stunning views!

One of the best spots to experience Korea's spring landscape is Bomun Lake in Gyeongju, just 2.5 hours by train from Seoul, where cherry blossoms and forsythia bloom together right by the water.

Spring in Korea isn’t just about pretty flowers, the weather is also incredible! It’s warm enough to pack away winter coats and just walk around town wearing your favorite sweater.

Thanks to the mild temperatures, spring is a great time to visit Gyeongbokgung Palace in Seoul while wearing a rented hanbok, the traditional Korean attire. A fun fact is that these traditional outfits are often spring-inspired and feature lots of floral details!

Another unique spring activity in Korea is walking by the famous Han River in Seoul. Locals love gathering there for romantic dates under the blooming trees, and it’s easy to see why.

An authentic Korean experience is to rent a picnic blanket, grab some noodles, and join in on the fun. Watching the petals gently fall as you relax by the river is one of the simplest but most magical experiences you can have in Seoul.

By Lo Lee from Carry Oner

4. Lisbon, Portugal

These purple trees originate from Brazil and India, but you can see them all over the city.

Visiting Lisbon is great any time of year, but it's extra colourful in spring! From March and April onwards, the weather is lovely. The sun shines often, and the dry summer is just around the corner.

Lisbon in spring is also less busy than in the height of summer, and you can find great deals on accommodation prices.

From late March, the bougainvillaea will start flowering, offering stunning photo opportunities. Visit Miradouro de Santa Luzia in Alfama, for example, or the botanical gardens.

The botanical garden in Lisbon and the Tropical Gardens in Belém are stunning! In late May and June, the beautiful jacarandá trees will bloom!

These purple trees originate from Brazil and India, but you can see them all over the city.

With fewer crowds, it's the perfect time to visit the famous Lisbon landmarks.

Visit the neighbourhood of Belém to see the Jerónimos Monastery and the Belém Tower, and remember to visit the patisserie Pastéis de Belém to taste the original pastel de nata!

Alfama is another must-see neighbourhood as it's the oldest part of Lisbon. You'll discover plenty of narrow streets and beautiful viewpoints, and you can ride the famous Tram 28.

If you stay several days in Lisbon, you can add a day trip to Sintra to your itinerary! For example, visit Pena Palace, Quinta da Regaleira, and the Moorish Castle in Sintra.

You can even visit Sintra and Cascais in one day with a guided tour. Or discover the most western part of mainland Europe at Cabo da Roca and see the rough Atlantic coast!

by Marga of Discover Portugal

5. Alsace, France

With perfect weather throughout the day, vibrantly green sprawling landscapes of vineyards, sunny skies, and colorful storybook villages, the Alsace Wine Route is a dreamy spring destination that has to be on your bucket list.

Located in northeastern France on the west bank of the upper Rhine River, Alsace is dominated by the Vosges Mountains. It has a unique culture combining Germanic and French influences.

While this area is extremely popular during the winter due to its internationally famous magical Christmas markets and atmosphere, spring will reward you with picture-perfect views, not few but fewer crowds, and the possibility to visit Alsace without a car.

You can also take a road trip to visit some hidden gems that aren't reachable by public transport, but if you prefer not to, trains and a seasonal hop-on hop-off bus passing through 6 famous Alsatian villages are also available.

One of the best things to do on this wine route (the oldest one in France) is, of course, wine tastings in one or more of the dozens of enchanting wineries.

Some of which host a springtime event called Picnic at the Independent Winegrower, where you bring your picnic basket and the winery provides the gorgeous setting and the wine.

Other must-do activities include visiting fairytale towns and villages like Colmar, Riquewhir, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim, touring the gorgeous Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, and hiking or cycling through the region.

If you're specifically looking for seasonal events, Colmar also hosts a lovely spring and Easter market in April, called Fête le Printemps.

by Or from My Path in the World

6. Moab, Utah

The weather in Moab in spring is ideal for exploring.

Spring is the perfect time to explore Moab, Utah’s dramatic red rock landscapes and take part in its thrilling outdoor activities.

Known for being the gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Moab offers a unique mix of stunning natural beauty, mild weather, and seasonal activities and events that make it a springtime family favorite.

The weather in Moab in spring is ideal for exploring.

It’s a desert oasis, with springtime high temperatures in the 60’s-70’s Fahrenheit.

Bring some warm clothes for nighttime activities, as the temperatures typically drop into the 30’s and 40’s. These conditions are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the region’s iconic national parks.

Arches National Park, with over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, is stunning under the bright blue spring skies.

Don’t miss seeing Delicate Arch at sunrise or sunset, walking the easy Park Avenue trail, or visiting Balanced Rock.

Nearby Canyonlands National Park offers endless opportunities for hiking and photography, with its breathtaking mesas and canyons.

Mesa Arch at sunrise is not to be missed. Take a scenic drive through the Needles District and stop at one of the many beautiful viewpoints.

Don’t forget to head off the beaten path in Moab to explore outside of the parks. Spring is the prime season for white-water rafting on the Colorado River, with snowmelt from the nearby La Sal Mountains swelling the river’s rapids.

Kayaking and paddleboarding are great alternatives on flatwater sections of the river. Prefer land-based activities? Mountain bikers flock to famous trails like the Slickrock Bike Trail, while road bikers enjoy the LaSal mountain loop and Deadhorse Point State Park.

Hiking or canyoneering to one of the many arches outside of the parks is a great way to avoid any spring break crowds.

Whether you visit during the Easter Jeep Festival or not, off-roading on the Poison Spider Trail is another popular Moab pastime.

By Sonia, Carey On Travels

7. Phoenix, Arizona

There are plenty of other great outdoor activities to enjoy in the spring. Take a hike up Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak

Spring is the best time to visit Phoenix, Arizona! The weather is amazing – not too hot, and not too cold – so you can enjoy all the fun outdoor activities that Phoenix has to offer.

One of the biggest reasons people love traveling to Phoenix in the springtime is for Spring Training.

Over a dozen Major League Baseball teams get warmed up for the season with hundreds of games played at ballparks throughout the greater Phoenix area. It’s a must for baseball fans!

There are plenty of other great outdoor activities to enjoy in the spring. Take a hike up Camelback Mountain or Piestewa Peak, enjoy a round of golf at one of the famous golf courses, or learn about cacti and native plants at the Desert Botanical Garden.

Or splurge and take a hot-air balloon rise and experience the magic of the desert at sunrise.

If you happen to get a rainy day, don’t worry! The rain won’t last long. Use this opportunity to visit some of the best museums in Phoenix, such as the Musical Instrument Museum, the Heard Museum, or the Phoenix Art Museum.

The Arizona Science Center is a great choice for family fun, and don’t miss the opportunity to experience the 3D IMAX theater.

If you love art, you won’t want to miss the annual Celebration of Fine Art, which is held mid-January through the end of March in Scottsdale.

There are also plenty of incredible galleries where you can purchase unique paintings or crafts to take home as a souvenir of your trip to the Valley of the Sun.

by Lisa Garrett from Waves and Cobblestones

8. Dalat, Vietnam

If you had three days to spare, it would be worth spending all your time in Dalat

If you think cool highlands, lush flowers that’s surrounded by hydrangeas, Dalat is the perfect spot to stay put in Vietnam.

Southeast Asia heat can be oppressive but spring-time break in Vietnam is all about that crisp 15-25 degree weather with loads of sunshine, interesting cafe cultures and cute coffee stations.

If you had three days to spare, it would be worth spending all your time in Dalat.

As you meander through lanes perched on a hill, you’ll see the beautiful French colonial architecture, which is a blend of European and Asian styles. The buildings are characterized by their sloping roofs, decorative ironwork, and intricate detail

There’s also an alpine coaster that takes you trough Vietnamese highlands. The alpine coaster which is 2400 meters long takes you to the bottom of the waterfall and allows you to take the coaster back.

There’s no town completed without taking a motorbike tour and what better way than to ride through Dalat’s pine trees and hop from one coffee plantation to the next.

The best time to visit Dalat is between February to March. The crowds are less post-Tet celebrations (their New Year) and it is nice to explore a different side of Vietnam away from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh cities.

by Pashmina from The Gone Goat

9. Banff, Canada

Banff as a Spring destination has so many advantages including a warmer temperature

Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada at any time of year. The summer has turquoise blue lakes and the winter has snow-capped mountains that look like clouds.

But the best time to visit Banff is in spring because you truly get the best of both worlds because the lakes start to thaw revealing the glistening blue between cracked ice yet the snow is still on the hills making it the perfect to experience spring skiing and snowboarding.

Banff has one of the longest ski seasons in North America and is home to three ski resorts: Norquay, Lake Louise and Sunshine Village so you will have plenty of options to do some spring skiing or snowboarding.

Plus, prices are lower in spring than in the depths of winter.

Banff as a Spring destination has so many advantages including a warmer temperature between the months of March and May than the minus 35 degrees it sees during December.

There’s also less crowds which means you can take the iconic pictures against the mountainous backdrops without herds of people in your view and more chances to get into the great restaurants without having to book months in advance.

Most importantly, spring is one of the cheapest times to visit Banff as you can find budget-friendly Banff accommodation and lower-priced international flights to Calgary, just 1.5 hours drive from downtown Banff.

By Shireen from Happy Day Travels

10. Uzbekistan

Visit Samarkand and marvel at Registan Square and its blue-tiled madrasahs

Uzbekistan is not a place that immediately jumps to mind when planning a Spring getaway. Off the beaten track and not on most traveller’s radars, this double landlocked country in the desert is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Tourism is increasing to the area every year, and as more people discover its fascinating Silk Road history, delicious food, and unique charm, this is bound to continue.

Uzbekistan was once the mid-way point of the Silk Road, a group of trade routes that linked China and the far east to Europe for over 1500 years.

Traders would travel along the Silk Road bringing exotic spices, precious metals, and most famously, silk to be sold in Venice and other cities around Europe.

This mix of cultures, languages and shared history is something that has shaped all the countries along the former Silk Road, but nowhere is it more apparent than Uzbekistan.

There are endless things to see and do in this beautiful country. Visit Samarkand and marvel at Registan Square and its blue-tiled madrasahs that were once a pilgrimage for scholars from all over the Islamic world. The desert city of Khiva is like an open-air museum, perfectly preserved and restored.

Discover desert fortresses abandoned for millennia, sip tea in ancient caravanserai converted into restaurants showcasing the unique and delicious Uzbek cuisine or explore the bustling bazaars of Bukhara.

Spring is the peak tourist season in Uzbekistan and the perfect time to explore both the cities and desert. Summer days in Uzbekistan soar to 40°C+ and winter sees temperatures drop below freezing and tourist sites close.

Spring is the perfect time to explore and also take in important cultural celebrations such as Navruz, or Persian New Year, when the country explodes with folk festivals, equestrian tournaments and celebrations.

by Liza from Atlas Rambler Travel Guides

11. Japan

Everyone wants to experience this natural phenomenon of blooming cherry blossoms in japan

There aren’t many countries that celebrate the arrival of spring quite like Japan. Cherry blossom season sees stores filled with sakura-themed beverages, snacks, streets decorated with pink flowers and fun festivals abound.

While the cherry blossoms are the most popular sight, in recent years this has lead to unbearable crowds in the country’s most popular tourist spots. Everyone wants to experience this natural phenomenon, and I can easily see why.

This peak time for visitors is usually late March to mid April. In saying that, most people don’t realise there are so many other kinds of spring flowers in Japan to enjoy that aren’t as well known — and therefore can be enjoyed without crazy crowds!

In my opinion, plum blossoms are equally as beautiful, however unlike cherry blossoms they have a sweet fragrance. With shades ranging from white to bright pink, I've caught them in late January to mid-February.

Often shaped into round ball hedges, colourful azaleas burst into bloom in mid April to mid May, and collectively make an amazing sight. One of my treasured spring memories was seeing azaleas at Nezu Shrine in Tokyo, which holds a festival especially for them.

Tiny nemophila flowers create blue carpets across hillsides and fields in late April, which are an incredible scene, while fluffy peonies are used to decorate a lesser-known garden in Matsue. A lovely place I enjoyed seeing late-blooming cherry blossoms without crowds was by Matsue Castle.

But my absolute personal favourite are the wisteria displays. These vigorous climbing plants are draped with bunches of pastel flowers in late April to early May, and their scent is like heaven.

Some wisteria plants in Japan have been blooming for several hundred years, the oldest I’ve seen was 800 years young!

by Alyse from The Invisible Tourist

12. Sussex, UK

Sussex in the UK is a great place to visit in Spring. It offers a melting pot of natural beauty, quaint villages, quirky seaside towns and interesting, seasonal events.

Sussex comes alive in Spring, with the rolling South Downs blooming vibrantly, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and photography.

One of the highlights in April is the famous Arundel Tulip Festival, held annually at Arundel Castle’s serene gardens. Visitors can wander through displays of thousands of tulips in a kaleidoscope of colours, set against the backdrop of the historic castle.

A visit to Arundel is a must, with its blend of quirky, independent shops and quaint tea rooms.

For nature lovers, ancient woodlands across Sussex bloom into carpets of bluebells during late April and May. Angmering Park Estate, Brede High Woods and Kingley Vale are the perfect locations to soak in the beauty of these iconic springtime flowers. Sheffield Park and Buchan Country Park burst into life with rhododendrons and azaleas, offering picturesque walks.

Sussex is renowned for its rich artistic and creative culture. The Brighton Festival, held in May, is one of England’s largest arts festivals, with a rolling timetable throughout May, showcasing performances, exhibitions and community events that celebrate this creativity and talent.

There are many family-friendly events additionally, and a range of events to choose from.

Hastings is a quirky seaside town that awakens for the May bank holiday weekend, to celebrate the Jack in the Green festival. This has deep pagan roots and is a celebration of the arrival of Spring. This utterly bonkers yet entertaining parade is a must-see, with beautiful craftsmanship, music and dance. There is a beautiful atmosphere across the town all weekend.

Sussex in Spring calls for long walks on the rolling South Downs and a visit to quaint villages such as Lewes. Sussex is a blend of beautiful, colourful countryside and lively cultural events in Spring, making it a magical and memorable time of year to visit.

By Gills from Secret Sussex

13. Algarve, Portugal

Springtime really brings the Algarve’s natural beauty to life.

The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is a fantastic place to visit during spring due to its mild climate, incredible landscapes, and lively cultural calendar.

It offers a great blend of pleasant weather, blossoming nature, and a peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to come by during the summer and more popular months.

During spring, temperatures range from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F), making it the perfect time to get outside and explore many of the Algarve’s natural environments.

From cliffside walking paths, to golden sandy beaches, and trails through its inland region. The warm spring climate is great for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports such as surfing and paddleboarding.

That said, the waters can be frigid so most visitors will be using wetsuits if they plan on spending an extended amount of time in the sea!

Springtime really brings the Algarve’s natural beauty to life. The countryside bursts into colour with wildflowers, almond blossoms, and lush greenery.

In the towns, Jacaranda trees will bloom in late April coating tree lined streets and public squares in shades of purple.

Trails like the Via Algarviana, and trails through the Ria Formosa Natural Park offer opportunities to witness some of the Algarve’s native wildlife, as well as migratory birds returning from Africa.

Spring is when the Algarve’s events calendar gets back into gear after the winter. There are many cultural events, street parties and celebrations taking place at this time of the year. The most prominent being Carnival, usually celebrated at the start of March. In Loulé, you can take part in the oldest carnival celebration in Portugal, watch the parade and try some local foods.

On top of all that, visiting the Algarve during spring allows for a more peaceful and slower experience.

With fewer tourists, popular towns like Lagos, Albufeira, and Tavira are much less crowded, and historical sites such as Silves Castle and Faro’s oldtown are much more pleasant to visit.

By Ana Veiga from We Travel Portugal

14. Loire Valley, France

Beyond the famous castles, the region's true charm lies in its old villages with medieval stone walls draped in climbing roses.

What makes springtime in this enchanting region called Loire Valley of France truly special is the way flowers seem to chase each other up ancient stone walls. Roses in every shade of pink and red climb medieval houses, while tulips stand proud in castle gardens inspired by their Dutch cousins.

Walking through towns like Blois or Amboise feels like stepping into an artist's canvas, where spring blooms frame historic towers and turrets in a way that seems to come out of a story book.

While crowds rush to the Netherlands for tulip season, French locals know better – they head to their own backyard, where castle gardens rival those famous Dutch blooms with their own spectacular displays.

In recent years, the grand châteaux have sparked something of a friendly competition, each trying to outdo the others with more vibrant tulip arrangements.

Beyond the famous castles, the region's true charm lies in its old villages with medieval stone walls draped in climbing roses.

During spring, every street feels like a painting come to life, as nature transforms these historic spaces into scenes straight out of a fairy tale, adding splashes of color to centuries-old architecture.

The best part? You get all this natural beauty without summer's tourist crowds! In spring, you can explore castle gardens and medieval streets at your own pace, stopping as often as you like to capture another picture-perfect scene of flowers against stone.

Just be sure to plan your visit for May – that's when the roses are in full bloom and the weather is perfect for château-hopping.

By Ersilia from Explore with Ersilia

15. Corfu, Greece

One must-do activity during a spring trip to Corfu is visiting some of its iconic.

Located in Greece’s Ionian island region, Corfu is one of the best spring destinations in the country. This island is known for its incredible beaches, lush landscape, and rich history.

Spring is an excellent time to visit Corfu because it falls during Greece’s shoulder season.

This means accommodation costs will be lower and the weather will remain pleasant. In addition, there are fewer crowds, which helps congestion at popular sites and lowers demand for taxis and other transportation. The island also has cultural events during spring.

Even if you aren’t religious, Orthodox Easter is one of the most significant events in Corfu. The island has one of the country’s most exciting celebrations, and the center of activity is Liston Square.

During Easter, streets will lined with musical performers and beautifully decorated Epitaphs. Other Easter traditions include locals throwing clay pots onto the lively streets and feasts of delicious Greek dishes. Koulourakia Paschalina (cookies), lamb, and Avgolemono (egg-lemon soup) are among the dishes served during the festivities.

One must-do activity during a spring trip to Corfu is visiting some of its iconic. A few of the best the island offers are Porto Timoni, Glyfada, and Rovinia, some of the best to visit. The views at Corfu’s beaches are unbeatable, and they are the perfect place to relax.

Another great activity to do in Corfu is exploring its many villages. Corfu Town’s Old Town is UNESCO-listed and is full of activity and historical sites. Great seaside village options include Sidari, Paleokastritsa, and Ipsos.

By Tamara Williams from My Elated Odyssey

16. Edinburgh, Scotland

Sitting dramatically on an extinct volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline.

Spring is a splendid time for visiting Edinburgh. During this time, the weather starts to warm up slowly. The days get longer, which is great for outdoor pursuits.

Also, spring is not the peak tourist season, giving a wonderful opportunity to properly appreciate this city.

From enjoying beautiful cherry blossoms to exploring the historic Edinburgh Castle, there are plenty of attractions in Edinburgh for a lovely Spring break.

Sitting dramatically on an extinct volcanic rock, Edinburgh Castle dominates the skyline.

It houses many historical artefacts, including the Scottish Crown Jewel, known as the Honours of Scotland.

It was once the residence of Scottish monarchs. Next, wander along the bustling Royal Mile. It is lined with various historical buildings. You can enjoy a lively street performance as well. Also, step inside the historic St Giles Cathedral to admire its ornate roofs and wood carvings.

The Old and New Town of Edinburgh is a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Another must-visit attraction in Edinburgh is the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland.

Take a tour of the magnificent State Apartments and the stunning ruins of the 12th-century Holyrood Abbey.

From April, various Spring flowers begin to bloom. There are several parks and gardens around Edinburgh where you will find them.

Take a stroll around the Princes Street Garden. You will find beautiful snowdrops, crocuses, daffodils and magnolia here. The Meadows is famous for its cherry blossom.

Also, you can enjoy a variety of festivals in spring, like the Science Festival, International Children’s Festival and the Beltane Fire Festival.

by Moumita from Chasing the Long Road

17. Pyrenees, Spain

Spring brings fewer tourists than the summer months, making it an ideal time to explore the national parks of the Pyrenees without the crowds.

The Spanish Pyrenees is one of the best spring destinations in Europe for nature lovers. This mountain range, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the cities, forms a natural border between Spain and France.

It is one of the most unique destinations on the Iberian Peninsula for those seeking walks immersed in nature. During spring, the region boasts fresh greenery, vibrant wildflowers, and snow-capped peaks in the backdrop.

The weather is perfect for cycling, exploring picturesque villages, trying adventurous outdoor activities and hiking in the Pyrenees.

Spring brings fewer tourists than the summer months, making it an ideal time to explore the national parks of the Pyrenees without the crowds.

The two main natural settings of the mountain range, Ordesa and Monte Perdido, and Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Parks, gain special charm after winter has passed.

Rivers and waterfalls flow more powerfully due to the meltwater, creating a stunning natural spectacle. Additionally, compared to winter, when snowfalls can make driving challenging, spring offers a more relaxed experience. You won’t need to worry about winter tires or snow chains for your car.

Spring in the Pyrenees is also an excellent time for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. The region is home to a diverse range of animals, and as temperatures rise, they become more active, providing great opportunities for wildlife spotting.

by Anna from At Lifestyle Crossroads

18. Portland, Oregon

A variety of cherry trees flourish their delicate pink blooms across the Portland Japanese Garden

Portland, Oregon is a highly underrated spring destination. As the temperature warms and the days lengthen, the city slowly emerges from its gray winter slumber.

And by the end of spring, Portland is simply bursting with blooms everywhere you look.

The cherry blossoms are of particular note, kicking the season off in late March to early April.

Two of the best places to see cherry blossoms in Portland are along the Tom McCall waterfront Park and the Portland Japanese Garden, one of the most authentic Japanese Gardens outside of Japan.

A variety of cherry trees flourish their delicate pink blooms across the Portland Japanese Garden. And the Waterfront Park features 100 Akebono cherry trees lining the Willamette River, with an iconic view of Portland as a backdrop.

These two locations alone have placed Portland, Oregon, among the top destinations in the world to see cherry blossoms each spring. But the cherry blossoms are only the beginning, as a chorus of colors follows in months thereafter.

Just south of Portland, the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival takes place late March through early May. May brings the irises at Schreiner’s, the largest iris farm in the US!

And May is also peak blooming season for the rhododendrons and azaleas (both native flowers to the Cascades) at the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden.

From cherry blossoms to rhododendrons, by the end of spring, Portland has transformed into a paradise of blooms. This PNW city personifies the very spirit of springtide, making it the perfect springtime destination.

by Clarice from The Clever West Wind

19. Hallstat, Austria

While Hallstatt is most famous for its Old Town, there’s plenty of other things to keep you busy here.

If you’re looking for a unique getaway this springtime, consider the fairytale town of Hallstatt, tucked within the Austrian Alps.

The town is stunning in the spring—the flower boxes on its colorful gingerbread houses are overflowing with vibrant blooms; the towering mountains surrounding the city will still have a dusting of snow; and you’ll get to enjoy Hallstatt without the hoards of summertime tourists.

One of the best things to do in Hallstatt is to simply wander around its Old Town, with its colorful houses built into the slopes of the Alps and fantastic views of Lake Hallstatt.

Grab a cup of coffee at Seecafé Hallstatt and enjoy it on the patio, with stellar views of the surrounding mountains and the turquoise waters of the lake.

While Hallstatt is most famous for its Old Town, there’s plenty of other things to keep you busy here.

For example, Hallstatt is home to the world’s first ever salt mine, Salzwelten Hallstatt, which has been in operation for seven thousand years!

Beyond its impressive claim to fame, the salt mine will keep visitors of all ages entertained, from the salt mummy that was discovered here in the 1700s to Europe’s longest wooden slide, which just so happens to be completely underground.

Another unique aspect of visiting in the springtime is that you’ll likely be able to partake in winter sports if you visit the higher elevation spots around the city.

For example, head to Dachstein Krippenstein, an adventure park high in the Alps, where you can ski, snowshoe, and even explore ice caves well into the springtime. Once you’ve gotten your fill of the snow and the cold, you can simply return to Hallstatt to enjoy much warmer temperatures and a bevy of restaurants to enjoy a glass of wine or a comforting Austrian meal.

by Jessica from UprootedTraveler

20. Hunza Valley, Pakistan

The valley (especially Central Hunza) is filled with tens of thousands of trees that look surreal on a sunny spring day

One of the best spring destinations in the world (and perhaps the most underrated) is Hunza Valley in the Gilgit Baltistan territory that’s administered by Pakistan.

The super remote, high altitude valley becomes lit up with cherry, apricot and apple blossoms come March and April and whew is it a sight to behold!

The valley - situated at 2500 meters and above - is incredibly safe, welcoming and home to the Indigenous Burusho and Wakhi people.

It’s here where you’ll find the highest density of 7000m peaks on the planet, which looks absolutely divine among the stunning flowers.

Despite being in a rain shadow, the valley (especially Central Hunza) is filled with tens of thousands of trees that look surreal on a sunny spring day, especially in the backdrop of Rakaposhi, perhaps the most magical peak in the region (and the 27th highest in the world).

The very best time to see it all in bloom is from the last week of March to the second week in April each year. So if you’ve ever wanted to experience blossom season without the crowds - take a chance on Hunza, you won’t regret it!

By Samantha from Intentional Detours

21. Valencia, Spain

Las Fallas, held every March, transforms the city into an open-air museum.

Valencia, Spain is one of the best spring destinations, offering travelers unique traditions and experiences, amazing food, and beautiful weather.

However, what truly makes spring special in Valencia is Las Fallas, the famous festival that celebrates the arrival of the season with unmatched creativity and energy.

Las Fallas, held every March, transforms the city into an open-air museum.

Throughout the full year, locals construct hundreds of massive, intricate sculptures made from wood, paper-mâché, and other materials.

These works of art are displayed throughout the city for several weeks before all but a few are burned on the night of March 20h during La Cremà.

During the festival, the city hosts countless parades, fireworks, and celebrations, so you don’t need to visit on a specific day unless you want to witness the spectacular burning ceremonies.

Valencia attracts record numbers of tourists during the festival, so staying in Valencia during Las Fallas can be pricey, especially in the city center.

To avoid high prices and noise due to the festivities, book a hotel just outside the center but still within walking distance. This way, you’ll be close enough to enjoy the events but can retreat to a quieter space once you're ready to rest.

Even if you can't make it to the city during the festival, Valencia will not disappoint. With temperatures averaging about 20°C (68°F), spring is perfect for exploring the city.

Make sure to book at least 4 days in Valencia to have enough time to visit its top sights like the City of Arts and Sciences, the Valencia Cathedral, and the Silk Exchange, and try traditional Valencian paella.

by Marina from Travel Eat Blog

22. Istanbul, Turkey

Tulip Festival Istanbul is just magical in the spring season.

Did you know that tulips actually come originally from Turkey, and not from the Netherlands? Thanks to the Tulip Festival Istanbul is just magical in the spring season.

Every April, the city turns into a sea of color, with millions of tulips blooming everywhere. It’s like nature throws a party just for you!

Here are the best locations you need to visit in Istanbul during spring:

Emirgan Park: imagine endless rows of tulips in every color - reds, yellows, purples, in creative patterns. It’s perfect for a relaxing walk, photo shooting, or just sitting on a bench and enjoying the view. There are also plenty of food stalls and cozy spots for a picnic, so plan to stay a while.
Sultanahmet Square: this is the place where tulips are blooming right in front of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. It’s stunning! The flowers make the historic architecture feel even more special. You can grab a simit (a sesame-covered bread ring) and enjoy the view like a local.
Gülhane Park: located just below Topkapi Palace, this historic park feels like a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. During the festival, it becomes a tulip wonderland! It’s a great spot to relax after visiting the palace or walking through Sultanahmet.

Spring also means mild weather and fewer crowds. You can wander through bazaars, sip tea by the Bosphorus, or take a ferry ride while enjoying the fresh breeze.

If you love flowers, history, and beautiful places, Istanbul in spring is a must. There’s something magical about seeing a city this old bloom into life. Trust me, you’ll leave with a full camera roll and unforgettable memories.

By Olga from A Girl in Istanbul

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