Neither Rome nor London: three European destinations for a ‘getaway’ this spring

With the euro 'high', there is vacation that leave (almost) 'for free': be aware of these destinations

Spring usually marks the start of the travel season in Europe. Between the end of winter and the beginning of summer, several cities become easier to explore, with milder temperatures and less tourist pressure. Amsterdam, Paris and Venice are among the most popular destinations throughout the year, but it is precisely in this intermediate season that they can be visited with greater ease.

According to the website Travel Off Path, which specializes in travel trends and international destinations, these three European cities reveal a distinct atmosphere in spring. In addition to more striking landscapes, there is also greater space to circulate and discover emblematic points without the usual intensity of large crowds.

Amsterdam

In spring, Amsterdam is transformed. The climate becomes milder, gardens and parks are filled with colors, and the city appears calmer than during periods of greater tourism.

During spring, the city gains an additional element that attracts visitors from all over the world: the blooming of tulips. The flower has become a symbol of the country and, at this time of year, the fields and gardens present a variety of colors that transform the landscape.

One of the places most associated with this phenomenon is the Keukenhof garden, located a short distance from the city. The space brings together hundreds of species of tulips and receives thousands of visitors every year during the flowering season. Many choose to travel the route from Amsterdam on organized tours or via rail connections.

In addition to visiting the gardens, it is still common to explore the city through its canals. Boat tours are one of the most popular ways to observe the historic architecture and daily life along the shores.

Paris

The French capital welcomes visitors all year round, but spring tends to provide a particularly favorable environment for exploring the city. Temperatures tend to be milder and several parks and avenues take on new colors with the blossoming of trees.

Among the most popular scenes at this time are the cherry blossom trees, which attract residents and tourists to different areas of the city. The urban landscape changes visibly over a few weeks, creating opportunities for walks and photographic records.

The lower tourist pressure, compared to the summer months, also makes it easier to access some of the best-known sites. Monuments such as Notre Dame or the Palace of Versailles remain among the most frequent stops for those visiting the French capital.

There are also options for those who prefer to get away from the busiest areas. The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, often cited as an inspiration for Versailles, appears as an alternative near Paris. Another destination associated with spring is Giverny, a place linked to the painter Claude Monet and the gardens that marked several of his works.

Venice

The Italian city has been facing a problem related to excessive tourism for several years. The Italian city receives millions of visitors every year and, in the summer months, some historic areas see a very high concentration of people.

In recent times, entry fees have been introduced for certain periods in an attempt to control the flow of visitors. Still, the city continues to be one of the most sought after destinations on the continent.

Spring appears as an alternative for those who want to discover Venice with a little more space to move around. Although there continues to be a significant tourist movement, the pressure tends to be lower than in the warmer months.

It is also at this time that one of the city’s best-known cultural events takes place. The Venice Biennale brings together exhibitions and initiatives linked to contemporary art and attracts artists and visitors from various parts of the world. According to , this combination of cultural environment and less tourist influx makes spring one of the most interesting times to visit the city.

Also read: