Spring is one of the most rewarding seasons to travel. As winter fades and summer crowds have yet to arrive, destinations around the world come alive with blooming flowers, mild temperatures, outdoor festivals, and vibrant city life. From cherry blossoms in Asia to tulip fields in Europe and alpine landscapes just beginning to thaw, spring offers the perfect balance of beauty and comfort.
1. Japan
Best cities: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara
Best months: Late March – early April
Spring in Japan is synonymous with cherry blossoms and seasonal traditions that revolve around nature.
What to expect:
- Iconic sakura scenery in parks, riversides, temples, and castles
- Hanami culture: picnics, seasonal food, and limited-edition spring snacks
- A soft pink atmosphere blending modern cities with traditional backdrops
- Busy tourist spots and vibrant city energy during peak bloom
- Cool mornings, mild afternoons, and romantic evening walks
2. South Korea
Best cities: Seoul, Busan, Jeju Island
Best months: April – early May
South Korea’s spring feels youthful, colorful, and community-driven.
What to expect:
- Cherry blossom-lined streets and palace grounds
- Spring flower festivals across cities and countryside
- Jeju Island covered in yellow canola flowers
- Outdoor cafés, riverside walks, and night picnics
- Comfortable temperatures perfect for walking-heavy itineraries
3. Taiwan
Best cities: Taipei, Alishan, Taichung
Best months: March – April
Spring is Taiwan’s most balanced season before summer heat and humidity.
What to expect:
- Pleasant weather for city exploration and day trips
- Mountain areas filled with mist, flowers, and tea plantations
- Flower-viewing trains and forest walks in Alishan
- Night markets that feel more comfortable than in summer
- A relaxed travel pace with fewer crowds
4. Netherlands
Best cities: Amsterdam, Lisse, Haarlem
Best months: April
Spring in the Netherlands is visually dramatic and world-famous.
What to expect:
- Endless tulip fields in full bloom near Lisse
- Keukenhof Gardens at peak color and design
- Amsterdam canals surrounded by fresh greenery
- Cycling culture fully active after winter
- Cool air, blue skies, and postcard-perfect scenery
5. France
Best cities: Paris, Provence, Nice
Best months: April – May
Spring brings elegance and romance back to France.
What to expect:
- Blooming gardens and parks, especially in Paris
- Café terraces reopening across cities
- Long daylight hours ideal for walking tours
- Provence slowly turning green before summer lavender season
- A calmer, more local atmosphere compared to summer
6. Italy
Best cities: Rome, Florence, Venice, Milan
Best months: April – May
Italy in spring is comfortable, cultural, and full of life.
What to expect:
- Ideal temperatures for exploring ruins, museums, and old towns
- Seasonal Italian dishes featuring fresh spring ingredients
- Cities feeling lively but not overwhelmingly crowded
- Venice canals calmer before peak tourist season
- Countryside landscapes turning green and vibrant
7. Spain
Best cities: Seville, Barcelona, Granada
Best months: March – May
Spring in Spain is energetic and deeply cultural.
What to expect:
- Major festivals like Semana Santa and Feria de Abril
- Streets filled with music, parades, and traditional costumes
- Warm but comfortable temperatures, especially in Andalusia
- Coastal cities enjoying early beach weather
- Long evenings and lively social atmosphere
8. Turkey
Best cities: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Izmir
Best months: April – May
Spring showcases Turkey at its most diverse and scenic.
What to expect:
- Istanbul filled with tulips during annual spring displays
- Ideal weather for walking through historical districts
- Cappadocia’s clear skies for hot air balloon flights
- Coastal towns slowly waking up before summer crowds
- Balanced temperatures across regions
9. Jordan
Best cities: Petra, Wadi Rum, Amman
Best months: March – April
Spring is the best time to explore Jordan’s natural and historical wonders.
What to expect:
- Comfortable temperatures for Petra’s long walks
- Wadi Rum landscapes appearing greener than usual
- Desert scenery without extreme heat
- A strong mix of adventure, history, and culture
- Clear skies and excellent visibility for photography
10. Switzerland
Best cities: Lucerne, Interlaken, Zurich
Best months: April – May
Spring in Switzerland is a transition between winter and summer beauty.
What to expect:
- Snow-capped mountains combined with green valleys
- Alpine flowers beginning to bloom at lower elevations
- Scenic train rides with changing landscapes
- Lakeside towns feeling peaceful and fresh
- Fewer tourists compared to peak summer
11. New Zealand
Best cities: Queenstown, Auckland, Wellington
Best months: September – November (Southern Hemisphere spring)
Spring in New Zealand feels adventurous and refreshing.
What to expect:
- Lush landscapes after winter rainfall
- Ideal conditions for hiking, road trips, and outdoor activities
- Wildlife becoming more active
- Fewer tourists than summer high season
- Crisp air and dramatic natural scenery
13. Georgia
Best cities: Tbilisi, Kazbegi, Kakheti
Best months: April – May
Georgia’s spring is quiet, green, and culturally rich.
What to expect:
- Mountain regions turning lush and accessible
- Vineyards and wine regions coming back to life
- Pleasant walking weather in historic old towns
- Authentic local experiences without mass tourism
- A mix of European and Caucasus influences
What to Prepare Before Visiting
- Layered clothing
Spring temperatures change quickly; mornings and evenings can be cold, afternoons warmer. - Light jacket or coat
Especially important for Europe, East Asia, and mountain regions. - Comfortable walking shoes
Most spring destinations are best explored on foot (cities, parks, old towns). - Rain protection
Bring a compact umbrella or waterproof jacket for unpredictable spring showers. - Travel bookings in advance
Cherry blossom and flower seasons sell out fast (Japan, Korea, Netherlands). - Seasonal itinerary flexibility
Flower bloom timing depends on weather and can change yearly. - Basic spring accessories
Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat (sun is stronger even in cool weather). - Universal travel adapter
Different plug types across Asia, Europe, and Oceania. - Mobile data / eSIM
For navigation, transport apps, and instant bookings on the go. Use an eSIM for a hassle-free connection. Enjoy a free 500 MB of global data from Eskimo eSIM in 109 countries. - Travel insurance
Useful for flight changes, weather disruptions, or outdoor activities. - Medication & personal essentials
Allergy meds are especially useful during pollen season. - Daypack or small backpack
Ideal for daily sightseeing, layering, and carrying water. - Check local festivals & holidays
Events like Golden Week, Semana Santa, or tulip festivals affect prices and crowds. - Camera or phone with extra storage
Spring landscapes are highly photogenic
FAQs
How crowded are popular spring destinations?
Crowd levels vary. Iconic spring highlights may attract many visitors, but traveling slightly outside peak bloom dates or exploring secondary areas helps avoid heavy congestion.
Does spring travel usually cost more than other seasons?
Spring prices are often mid-range. Costs can rise during major seasonal events, but overall expenses are usually lower than summer high season.
Is spring a good time for outdoor activities like hiking and walking tours?
Yes. Cooler temperatures and longer daylight hours make spring ideal for walking tours, light hikes, and scenic routes without extreme heat or cold.
How reliable is spring weather for travel planning?
Spring weather can be unpredictable, but it is rarely extreme. Travelers should expect occasional changes and plan flexible daily activities.
Which type of traveler benefits most from spring travel?
Spring is perfect for travelers who enjoy photography, cultural experiences, food exploration, and slow-paced itineraries with a mix of city and nature.
