Discover the 10 Top Spring Tour Spots in Europe

More than 70% of travelers pick spring to see Europe’s beauty. It’s the best time for blooming gardens, lively festivals, and nice weather. This guide shows the 10 top spring tour places in Europe. They mix history, culture, and nature for amazing trips.

Paris’s Tuileries Garden blooms beautifully in spring. Amsterdam’s fields are full of tulips. Each place has its own food scene, like Barcelona’s tapas or Rome’s trattorias. Your trip will include Venice’s canal cafes and Copenhagen’s cozy coffee shops. Locals and travelers love these spots.

Key Takeaways

• Europe’s 10 top spring tour places have over 100 great restaurants and cafes.
• Each spot has famous landmarks and seasonal events like tulip festivals or Easter.
• Plan for different activities: gondola rides, thermal baths, and hiking trails.
• Spring’s mild weather makes city explorations easy, like Prague’s streets or Lisbon’s hills.
• There are many dining options, from Michelin-starred places to family-owned spots.

1. Paris, France: The City of Light in Bloom

Paris in spring is a top spot for travelers. The Seine is lined with blossoms, and the city glows under the sun. You can explore famous sites, hidden spots, and lively festivals while enjoying French food.

Begin at the Eiffel Tower, where Le Jules Verne offers stunning views. Walk through Montmartre’s streets and stop at Le Consulat for a meal. The Printemps des Arts festival adds to the fun with street shows and markets.

Iconic Landmarks

See the Louvre’s glass pyramid and then enjoy a pastry at Café Kitsuné near Palais Royal. The Musée d’Orsay’s café is perfect for a light lunch with art views.

Charming Neighborhoods

In Le Marais, try Le Comptoir du Relais for classic dishes. Saint-Germain’s Septime offers modern twists. Don’t miss Le Fumoir for smoked dishes after visiting Place des Vosges.

Spring Festivals

Don’t miss the Salon du Livre and grab a snack at Angelina on Rue de Rivoli. Night markets in the 10th arrondissement are great with aperitifs at Café de Flore.

Enjoy picnics with pastries from Pierre Hermé or wine at La Fontaine de Mars. Every bite and sip makes Paris a memorable trip.

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands: Tulip Time Wonderland

Amsterdam is a top best European destinations for spring. It’s filled with tulip fields and canals that look like they’re straight out of a postcard. You’ll see flowers everywhere, historic buildings, and a food scene that’s truly unique.

Keukenhof Gardens

Visit Keukenhof Gardens to see seven million tulips in full bloom. Walk through fields of every color and check out themed gardens. You can also see a windmill and seasonal exhibits.

Canal Tours

Take a boat tour on Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals. Choose a sunset cruise to see 17th-century houses or rent a boat to explore at your own pace.

Local Markets

At Albert Cuyp Market, try stroopjes, herring, and stroopwafels. Amsterdam’s food scene is amazing. Here are some must-visit places:

• Restaurants: Check out Foodhallen (street food hall), De Kas (floating greenhouse), or De Silveren Spiegel (historic canal-side).
• Coffee & Bars: Enjoy Dutch roasts at Café In den Bijbel or trendy coffee at The American Coffee Roasters.

Spring is perfect for visiting Keukenhof or walking in Vondelpark. Amsterdam’s mix of culture and food makes it a great choice for spring.

3. Barcelona, Spain: A Fusion of Culture and Nature

Barcelona is a top spot in spring, blending art and outdoor fun. Jacaranda trees along Las Ramblas add to the city’s buzz. Here are some highlights to explore.

Park Güell

Gaudí’s Park Güell is a place of wonder. You can walk on mosaic benches and enjoy views from terraces. The park is alive with color and light in spring.

Outdoor Festivals

Spring festivals light up Plaça Reial. Don’t miss the Primavera Jazz Festival or street performances. Festas de Gràcia turns streets into stages with art and music.

Quintessential Tapas Bars

Experience Spain’s food at these famous spots:

• Tickets – avant-garde tapas from Ferran Adrià
• Cal Pep – classic escalivada and butifarra
• Can Culleretes – 18th-century gem with squid ink rice
• La Paradeta – seafood at Barceloneta Beach
• Quimet & Quimet – free paella samples at noon
• El Xampanyet – cava paired with patatas bravas
• Casa Calvet – traditional montaditos
• La Boqueria Market – gourmet tapas bars inside
• Escribà – modernist-style meat platters
• Bar Tomàs – century-old calçots and alioli

Try sangria or craft cocktails at these places:

• Bar Cañete – historic vermouth bar
• Sidecar – rooftop cocktails
• Café de l’Òpera – churros with hot chocolate
• El Bosc de les Fleurs – botanical-themed coffee
• La Venda dels Peix – seafood cocktails

4. Venice, Italy: Romantic Canals Come Alive

Among the top European spring travel spots, Venice shines as its canals sparkle with blooming trees. The mild weather of spring invites you to explore its hidden spots and famous landmarks.

Gondola Rides

Take a gondola ride through Venice’s waterways, passing by grand palazzos and bridges. Sunset cruises are perfect for capturing the city’s beauty. It’s a moment you won’t forget.

Carnival Celebrations

While Carnival peaks in February, spring brings events like the Salon del Mobile. This event adds art and fashion to Venice. Street performers and masquerade balls add whimsy to your visit.

Outdoor Dining

Spring evenings are perfect for dining outside by the water. Here are 10 must-try spots:

• Trattoria Alle Testiere (fresh seafood)
• Osteria Ai Artisti (traditional dishes)
• Antiche Carampane (historic ambiance)
• Trattoria Goldoni (canal views)
• Al Covo (family-run charm)
• Ristorante Quadri (classic Venetian)
• Armeria Arsenale (modern twists)
• La Corte del Doge (palazzo setting)
• Bistrot de Venise (French-Venetian fusion)
• Ristorante Al Giardinetto (garden terrace)

Enjoy espresso or aperitivi at these 5 favorites:

• Caffè Florian (historic café)
• Rivoire (waterfront views)
• Gran Caffè Quadri (elegant setting)
• La Merceria (local favorite)
• La Fenice (opera house café)

Try gelato from Bacaro da Fioretti and stroll through the Rialto Market. It’s a taste of Venetian life.

5. Prague, Czech Republic: Fairy-Tale Vibes

Prague’s cobblestone streets and blooming gardens make it a top spot for spring travel in Europe. Explore centuries-old buildings and enjoy local foods in hidden spots and by the river.

Historic Architecture

See Prague Castle’s golden rooftops and Charles Bridge’s Gothic spires. Walk through Old Town Square’s arcades, surrounded by spring’s first flowers. Don’t miss the Kampa Park sculptures in the Vltava River.

Springtime Events

Spring brings the Prague Spring International Music Festival and Easter markets. After exploring, try these places:

• U Modré Kachnička (traditional Czech)
• Lokál (modern Czech)
• Arco (panoramic views)
• Pražák (classic dishes)
• Slavia (historic dining)
• Kavárna U Modré Kachnička (evening meals)
• Brouček (rooftop dining)
• La Degustation BMC (Michelin-starred)
• Alchymistův Dům (creative cuisine)
• Café Slavia (jazz nights)

Enjoy coffee and pastries at:

• Café Louvre
• Café Savoy
• Café de Paris
• Café Imperial
• U Fleků

River Cruises

See the city from the Vltava River. Evening cruises light up the Charles Bridge at dusk.

Experience history and food for an unforgettable spring travel in Europe.

6. Edinburgh, Scotland: Nature Meets History

Edinburgh, Scotland, is a top pick for Europe vacation ideas for spring. It combines natural beauty with historical sites. Cherry blossoms bloom in gardens, and ancient castles come to life, making it a vibrant spring getaway.

Parks and Gardens

Walk through Princes Street Gardens, where tulips and roses bloom. Arthur’s Seat offers a hike with city views. The Royal Botanic Garden showcases rare plants. These spots are perfect for spring picnics and walks.

Festivals of Spring

Spring highlights include the Beltane Fire Festival in April. It features ancient rituals. The Edinburgh International Science Festival also adds to the season’s charm, great for travelers.

Scenic Highland Tours

Day trips to the Scottish Highlands reveal rugged landscapes. Guided hikes to Stirling Castle or drives along the West Highland Way offer stunning views. Book a tour to explore hidden glens and historic villages.

Culinary Gems

Edinburgh’s dining scene offers flavors from traditional haggis to modern fusion. Here are 10 must-try spots:

Enjoy meals with local brews or teas at these 5 favorites:

• Black Rock Coffee Roasters – specialty roasts
• Café Gandilán – tapas and coffee
• North Bridge Café – classic British breakfasts
• Lochend Coffee Roasters – artisanal blends
• Café St Honoré – pastries and espresso

7. Lisbon, Portugal: A Bright Coastal Retreat

Lisbon is a must-see in your European springtime travel guide. It combines sunny hills with old-world charm. Explore its lively streets and the Tagus River’s cool breeze.

Historic Tram Rides

Take Tram 28 to see Alfama’s secrets. Stop at A Brasileira for coffee or visit Confeitaria Nacional for pastries. The trams show Lisbon’s rich history.

Fado Music in the Streets

“Fado is the soul of Lisbon, a melody that captures the sea’s longing and the city’s heartbeat.”

Experience Fado’s soulful songs. Listen at A Taberna do Largo or Monumental. These spots mix tradition with modern sounds.

Day Trips to Sintra

Visit Sintra’s magical forests and palaces. See Pena Palace and Cabo da Roca. Then, enjoy sunset at Lisbon’s typographia bars.

Essential Eats & Sips

Try these Lisbon favorites:

• Restaurants: Tava (fish stew), Cantinho do Avillez (innovative dishes), Alyscamps (Alentejo cuisine), Time Out Market (street eats), Vila Joya (oceanfront dining), Mesa (modern takes), Cozinha da Rua (home-style), O Beijo (charcoal-grilled meats), Lx Factory (creative dishes), and A Vida Portuguesa (heirloom recipes).

• Cafés & Bars: Belcoghin (19th-century charm), Perfect Stranger (craft cocktails), A Pimenta (tapas), A Brasileira (classic pastries), and Time Out Market’s bars (live music).

Enhance your European springtime travel guide with Lisbon’s flavors. Try ginja cherry liqueur at Padaria Abranches or vinho verde at Garrafeira. Each taste shares Lisbon’s essence.

8. Budapest, Hungary: Thermal Springs and Exuberance

Escape to Budapest’s thermal springs, where warm waters meet spring’s vibrant energy. After a day exploring flower-strewn parks, let your taste buds wander through bustling markets and cozy eateries. This city’s blend of relaxation and indulgence makes it a must-visit in spring.

Spas and Baths

Soak in the thermal springs at Széchenyi, Europe’s largest complex, or gaze at domed ceilings at Gellért. Rudas Baths offers panoramic Danube views, perfect for post-spa walks through Városliget’s blossoming gardens.

Flower Festivals

April’s Budapest Spring Festival transforms City Park into a sea of tulips. Don’t miss the Budapest Botanical Garden, where 10,000+ flowers bloom alongside historic architecture.

Culinary Tours

Pair your visit with these top eateries:

Wash it all down at these cozy spots:

• Gerbeaud Café – historic chocolate cakes
• Coffee Pilzs – artisanal brews
• Hangarterm – jazz nights with espresso
• Café Central – Viennese coffeehouse vibe
• La Pálinka Tavérő

9. Rome, Italy: Ancient Wonders in Bloom

Step into Rome’s springtime where ancient stones meet blooming gardens. Whether you’re tracing history or savoring carbonara, this city offers timeless experiences. Plan your visit around its iconic landmarks and seasonal traditions.

Historical Sites

Walk the Colosseum’s ancient steps or gaze at the Pantheon’s oculus. The Borghese Gardens blend art and nature, while the Vatican’s Sistine Chapel glows in spring sunlight. Book guided tours early for popular sites like the Roman Forum.

Roman Cuisine

Sample dishes that define the Eternal City:

• Armando al Pantheon: Artichokes fried to perfection.
• Da Enzo: Carbonara made with Pecorino cheese.
• La Pergola: Michelin-starred views of the skyline.
• Roscioli: Famous for cured meats and regional wines.
• La Tavernaccia: Hearty cacio e pepe in Trastevere.
• Il Pagliaccio: Truffle pasta at this historic spot.
• Da Felice: Family-run, try their suppli.
• Trattoria Da Cesare: Homemade pastas near Testaccio Market.
• Il Convivio: Vegetarian-friendly trattoria.
• Lo Scorpione: Authentic supplì near Piazza Venezia.

Easter Celebrations

Join locals at St. Peter’s Basilica during Easter Sunday Mass. The Trastevere district hosts the Processione della Madonna della Consolazione, a vibrant street festival.

“Easter here feels like stepping into a living painting,” said a local guide.

Coffee Shops & Bars

10. Copenhagen, Denmark: A Quaint Scandinavian Escape

Spring in Copenhagen brings together modern design and green spaces. It’s a perfect spot for food lovers and those who care about the environment. The city’s gardens and markets make it a great end to your European spring trip.

Gardens and Parks

Walk through Tivoli Gardens and enjoy a coffee at Café Dyrehavsbakken. The Botanical Garden’s paths lead to Amass, where you can try unique Nordic dishes. For a picnic, head to Fælrevej’s parks near Bred Gade Kælder for casual food.

Seasonal Markets

Torvehallerne Market is a must-visit for local cheeses and baked goods. Try a pastry from Kødbyen Bakery before lunch at Noma. Café Normann offers coffee and live music. For dessert, Relae’s tasting menu is a treat.

Biking Adventures

Ride to Den Blå Planet for Nordic-inspired small plates. Stop at Kaffebrenneriet for a roast. Then, explore the harborfront near Restaurant 24. Bike routes lead to cozy spots like Tivoli Bryghus’s craft beer garden.

Don’t miss Copenhagen’s top 10 restaurants: Noma, Geranium, Amass, Bred Gade Kælder, Relae, Den Blå Planet, Kødbyen, Tivoli Bryghus, Mathias Dahlgren, and Restaurant 24. Coffee spots like Café Dyrehavsbakken, Café Ida, Café Normann, Kaffebrenneriet, and Torvehallerne’s vendors add to the experience.

Copenhagen’s spring is a mix of history and new ideas. It’s a top European spot for parks, markets, and amazing food. Plan your visit to see it all.