Last updated February 24, 2025
From Kyoto’s cherry blossom festivals to Amsterdam’s tulip-lined canals, these ten best places to travel in spring capture destinations at their most magical moment—colors are bold, prices are low and tourist crowds are still hitting snooze.
Spring transforms familiar destinations into theatrical productions of nature, where timing is everything and the scenes change daily. While summer swelters and winter hibernates, spring sneaks in with those precious few weeks when destinations truly shine—and none of the wallet-crushing crowds or prices.
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The search for the best places to travel in spring reveals a world caught mid-transformation, from Kyoto’s cherry blossom-draped streets to Amsterdam’s historic canals bordered by blooming flowers. Each destination offers a fleeting spectacle, where nature orchestrates a show too good to miss.
Beyond the classic floral displays, spring adventures might mean stumbling upon rejuvenated mountain trails or wandering through ancient cities shaking off their winter dust in just-warm-enough sunshine.
These ten best places to travel in spring don’t just offer good weather, they deliver those can’t-believe-your-luck moments when a destination shows off its secret self.
Ten Best Places to Travel This Spring
The following ten best places to travel in spring aren’t just pins on your map. They’re performances with limited showtimes, not to mention the best seats in the house.
1. Kyoto, Japan
Spring in Kyoto is synonymous with the breathtaking cherry blossom season. The city transforms into a picturesque tapestry of pink and white blooms. The Philosophers’ Path and Maruyama Park are just two spots where you can enjoy hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of flower viewing.
What to Do: Besides hanami at the Philosophers’ Path and Maruyama Park, visit Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion and explore the historic Gion district.
Where to Stay: Consider staying in a traditional ryokan, such as Tawaraya or Hiiragiya, for a truly authentic Japanese experience.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Spring is the best time to visit Amsterdam as the city bursts into a vibrant display of tulips and other flowers. The famous Keukenhof Gardens, just outside the city, opens its doors to millions of flowering bulbs. Cycling through the flower-lined canals and historic streets in the mild weather is a delight.
What to Do: Rent a bike to explore the city, visit the Van Gogh Museum and take a canal cruise to see the city from the water.
Where to Stay: Stay at De L’Europe Amsterdam or The Toren for central locations and classic Dutch elegance.
3. Washington, D.C.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival draws visitors from all over the world to the nation’s capital. The sight of thousands of cherry trees in full bloom around the Tidal Basin, with landmarks like the Jefferson Memorial in the background, is truly iconic.
What to Do: Visit the Smithsonian museums, which are free to the public, and explore the monuments on the National Mall.
Where to Stay: Check out Willard InterContinental or Hay-Adams for their historical significance and proximity to major sites.
4. Istanbul, Turkey
Spring is an ideal time to explore Istanbul as the city enjoys mild weather and fewer tourists. The city’s many gardens and parks are filled with tulips, a flower that has historical significance in Turkish culture. This is also a great time to enjoy the city’s rich history without the peak season crowds.
What to Do: Visit the Hagia Sophia, explore the Grand Bazaar and take a Bosphorus cruise.
Where to Stay: Stay at Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet or Çırağan Palace Kempinski for luxury and stunning views.
5. Seville, Spain
Spring in Seville is a time for two of its most famous festivals: Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Feria de Abril. The weather is sunny and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s stunning Moorish architecture and enjoying tapas in outdoor settings.
What to Do: Visit the Alcázar Palace, enjoy a flamenco show and explore the Seville Cathedral.
Where to Stay: Stay at Hotel Alfonso XIII or Casa del Poeta for traditional Andalusian luxury.
6. Paris, France
The City of Light comes alive in spring when the cafés spill onto the sidewalks, the Seine River banks become bustling promenades, and flowers bloom in the Tuileries and Luxembourg Gardens. It’s a romantic time to explore the timeless charm of Paris.
What to Do: Visit the Louvre, take a walk along the Seine and explore the Montmartre district.
Where to Stay: Stay at Hôtel Plaza Athénée or Le Bristol Paris for quintessential Parisian luxury.
7. Cotswolds, England
The rolling hills and quaint villages of the Cotswolds are especially beautiful in spring when the wildflowers bloom and the landscape turns vibrant green. It’s an ideal time for walking tours and visiting the historic manors and gardens.
What to Do: Take a walking tour of the villages, visit Blenheim Palace and explore the local gardens.
Where to Stay: Stay at Lygon Arms or Cowley Manor for a mix of historical charm and modern luxury.
8. Cape Town, South Africa
Although technically autumn in the southern hemisphere, the weather in Cape Town during spring in the northern hemisphere is mild and sunny, perfect for hiking Table Mountain or visiting the vineyards in nearby Winelands.
What to Do: Hike Table Mountain, visit Robben Island and explore the Cape Winelands.
Where to Stay: Stay at Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel or One&Only Cape Town for spectacular views and luxury amenities.
9. Valley of Flowers, India
For a truly unique spring experience, Valley of Flowers National Park in the Indian Himalayas offers breathtaking landscapes filled with alpine flowers. The park is only accessible from late spring to early autumn, making this a perfect spring destination for nature lovers.
What to Do: Trek through the national park to witness the vast arrays of flora and fauna, visit Hemkund Sahib and explore nearby villages.
Where to Stay: Stay in Ghangaria, the base camp for treks into Valley of Flowers, where options range from campsites to guest houses.
10. Sedona, Arizona
Springtime in Sedona is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream come true. As the temperatures start to warm up, this season offers optimal weather for exploring the stunning red rock landscapes.
The desert flora, including cacti and wildflowers, begins to bloom, adding splashes of color against the dramatic red backdrop. Hiking, mountain biking and jeep tours are ideal ways to experience the natural beauty of Sedona in spring.
What to Do: Take a guided jeep tour of the red rocks, explore the hiking trails, and visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
Where to Stay: Stay at L’Auberge de Sedona or Enchantment Resort for stunning views and luxury spa services.
Catch Spring in the Act
As the world shakes off the winter chill and dresses itself in pretty colors, it’s a reminder that life is about exploration, experiences and creating memories that blossom like seasonal flowers. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses and let the spirit of spring guide you to new horizons.
Whether you’re drawn to the serene cherry blossoms of Kyoto, the historical tulips of Istanbul or the majestic red rocks of Sedona, the perfect getaway awaits at these ten best places to travel in spring. Happy springtime adventuring!
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