The best places to travel in April range from sun-kissed beaches and desert oases to mountain resorts still thick with gorgeous powder. Better still, you can save a small fortune by planning a getaway just before the busy summer season arrives. Weather conditions might not have reached their hot peak, but that’s a blessing in places like the sweltering Canary Islands and the tropics. And because winter has long gone, you won’t be stuck for things to do regardless of where you travel – you just won’t have to jostle with tourists to make the most of your chosen destination!
So, where are the best places to travel in April? Without further ado, let’s dive right in.
1. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Average temperature: 4°C (39.2°F) to 11°C (52°F)
Trip cost range per day: EUR 100 to 300 (USD 110 to 328)
Main airport: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
With its canal-laden streets, cute narrow houses, and cosmopolitan culture, Amsterdam is a charming capital city to visit year-round. But it’s one of the best places to travel in April, not just because the winter temperatures have subsided and the hectic crowds are yet to appear but also due to the myriad of events and attractions that (literally) bring the place to life.
April is the peak tulip season in the Netherlands. Vast patchworks of stunning flowers come into bloom in the countryside just outside Amsterdam. Head over to the Keukenhof, about 30 minutes from Amsterdam, to observe over seven million flowers in one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Within the city, the month-long Amsterdam Tulip Festival adds vibrant colors to the maze of historic streets.
On the 27th of April, an army of orange-wearing partygoers take over the city for King’s Day – expect bustling flea markets and all-out street parties. No matter when you visit, April sees parks, canal boats, and a range of outdoor activities spring into action.
2. Koh Samui, Thailand
Average temperature: 26°C (79°F) to 30°C (86°F)
Trip cost range per day: THB 1,200 to 3,500 (USD 35 to 101)
Main airport: Samui International Airport
Seasoned backpackers will know that Thailand’s New Year, or Songkran, takes place in April. This five-day public holiday takes the form of what is essentially a nationwide, good-natured water fight, where you’ll see locals and visitors non-stop drenching each other. The paradisiacal island of Koh Samui is one of the most enthusiastic places to embrace this unique celebration. But this soggy ritual takes place in just about every Thai city, town, and village, plus most neighboring nations.
April also marks the end of the high tourist season in Thailand. Make the most of your last chance to visit before the monsoon season takes over for the next six months or so.
3. Tokyo, Japan
Average temperature: 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F)
Trip cost range per day: JPY 20,100 to 57,500 (USD 140 to 400) per person
Main airport: Narita International Airport
Tokyo, Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous city, becomes a stunning landscape of pink and white cherry blossoms from late March to early April. Ueno Park, the gardens of Shinjuku Gyoen, the banks by the moats of Chidorigafuchi, and the Meguro River are among the most popular viewing points. Adding to the city’s gorgeous looks in April are comfortable weather conditions with daytime temperatures between 10°C and 20°C. The spring season also sees a variety of festivals, such as the Sumida Park Cherry Blossom Festival and the Takao Wakaba Spring Festival, adding even more vibrancy to Tokyo’s bustling atmosphere.
4. Crete, Greece
Average temperature: 11°C (52°F) to 20°C (68°F)
Trip cost range per day: EUR 100 to 250 (USD 110 to 275)
Main airport: Heraklion International Airport
Crete is the largest, most populous, and southernmost of all the Greek islands, making it inherently crowded with sunseekers over summer and ‘snowbirds’ in winter. Consequently, April makes a fantastic shoulder season in Crete, when crowds are relatively thin, and the temperature hasn’t quite reached beyond sweltering. The usually crammed, pink-hued beach of Elafonisi is pleasantly peaceful, just as winter gives way to spring. Drive through Crete’s rugged mountainous southern interior to find traditional tavernas that produce their own wines, meats, and cheeses.
Wanna stay in Greece long term? Check out our guide to the Greek digital nomad visa!
5. South Turkey
Average temperature: 10°C (50°F) to 21°C (70°F)
Trip cost range per day: TRY 300 to 700 (USD 10 to 25)
Main airport: Milas-Bodrum Airport
Turkey’s holiday season gets into full swing during May, which is why savvy Istanbulites head to the Turquoise Coast in April when you can admire the coastline in bloom before the summer jostling begins. You can also expect dry, sunny conditions and comfortable daytime temperatures in the high teens.
Local fishing villages by the Aegean-Mediterranean become bright with pink shades of bougainvillea hanging from balconies of the characteristically charming blue and white buildings. Bodrum, Kas, and Fethiye are just some of Turkey’s true coastal gems.
Early spring is also the best time to walk the famous 500-km Lycian Way. While following coastal paths and ancient caravan trails, you’ll stumble across Roman ruins, medieval stone hamlets, ancient forests, dramatic ravines, and more.
6. Seville, Spain
Average temperature: 11°C (52°F) to 24°C (75°F)
Trip cost range per day: EUR 135 to 270 (USD 147 to 295)
Main airport: Seville Airport
The capital of Spain’s southern Andalusia region has a calendar filled with exciting events throughout April. During the Holy Week leading up to Easter, brass bands and a host of religious events take over the cobbled streets of Seville when the blooming orange blossoms complement the color of the parades. For a livelier fiesta of parties and music, complete with flamenco dancers and horse-riding displays, visit the Feria de Abril festival two weeks later.
While you’re here, you can support the locals of Seville by shopping for homemade souvenirs, pottery, jewelry, handicrafts, and fashion accessories at the Mercado El Postigo. For a spot of sunshine, you can reach the Costa de la Luz in about an hour – it’s Spain’s warmest beach destination in April.
7. Toronto, Canada
Average temperature: 4°C (39°F) to 12°C (54°F)
Trip cost range per day: CAD 185 to 450 (USD 138 to 336)
Main airport: Toronto Pearson International Airport
Canada is one of the best places to travel in April when the almost permanent layer of frost that covers the nation for the long and bitter winter starts to thaw. In Toronto, cherry blossoms burst forth and bring the city out of hibernation – the candy-floss-colored blooms in central High Park look especially photogenic. The city also hosts the Beaches Easter Parade, which attracts over 50,000 people to its floats and parades along Queen East Street every year.
Fancy an eco-friendly stay in Toronto this April? Occupying a reimagined Victorian-era building, Gladstone House is one of Canada’s environmentally friendliest hotels, powered by 100% renewable energy.
8. Zambia
Average temperature: 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F)
Trip cost range per day: ZMW 2,000 to 3,350 (USD 77 to 130)
Main airport: Kenneth Kaunda International Airport
Zambia is the less popular but certainly no less exhilarating big game neighbor of Tanzania and Botswana. But if you can put up with poor road conditions and somewhat comparatively steep prices, Zambia is a trove of natural treasures in April. The nation’s best-known attraction is Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls by volume. April marks the start of the dry season, allowing you to see this spectacular cascade without spray obscuring the view.
You’ll find one of the highest densities of big game in Africa while visiting the South Luangwa National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for nature’s epic beasts while sailing a luxury houseboat along Lake Kariba. You can also head to the Kafue National Park to support Zambia’s anti-poaching efforts.
9. Charleston, USA
Average temperature: 4°C (39°F) to 20°C (68°F)
Trip cost range per day: USD 175 to 500
Main airport: Charleston International Airport
Before the long and steamy summer conditions conquer the Deep South, consider paying a visit to what is often hailed as the USA’s friendliest city. Charleston’s charming, colorful houses that line cobbled streets complete with horse-drawn carriages give the place a touch of old-world charm. Early spring makes the seafront a tranquil place to feast on fresh oysters with the ocean breeze to cool you down. Also taking place in April is the Charleston Festival (formerly known as the Festival of Houses and Gardens), featuring concerts, workshops, lectures, and tours of private houses and gardens.
10. Zermatt, Switzerland
Average temperature: 4°C (39°F) to 16°C (61°F)
Trip cost range per day: CHF 250 to 600 (USD 293 to 700)
Main airport: Geneva Airport
April is still not too late to treat yourself to a ski break if you head to the winter wonderland mountain resort of Zermatt in Switzerland, which is home to Europe’s highest ski lift. While there’s usually still a blanket of snow covering the peaks of this region, there’s also a snowmaking machine to keep powder levels on the glacier topped up for a spot of carving. Additionally, since you’ll be catching end-of-the-season deals, prices are much more stomachable in April. Which is great, considering Switzerland is EXPENSIVE (to say the least). Best of all, there are also virtually no queues for the lifts or at the bars – perfect for those who are more interested in the après ski atmosphere than the quality of the powder.
11. Paris, France
Average temperature: 5°C (41°F) to 14°C (57°F)
Trip cost range per day: EUR 100 to 450 (USD 293 to 700)
Main airport: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
While there’s never a shortage of vibrancy in the French Capital, the city really comes out of hibernation in April, when the trees and plants around the Tuileries come into bloom, and strolls along the Seine become even more romantic. This makes Paris one of the best places to travel to in April. When spring sets in, getting around Paris via bicycle is a pleasure. Take advantage of the bright green Vélib bike sharing stations to make the most of the season while traveling like an eco-friendly superstar. There are plenty of places where you can park your wheels to enjoy the month’s festivities.
For a kick of nostalgia, have a blast on the rides at the Foire du Trône, an annual fun fair that’s been hosted since the 10th century. Prefer to get to know the city’s arts scene? At Art Paris during the first week of April, you can browse works of contemporary art from thousands of artists showcased at venues like the Grand Palais.
12. Florida, USA
Average temperature: 17°C (63°F) to 28°C (82°F)
Trip cost range per day: USD 120 to 370
Main airport: Orlando International Airport
With its theme parks, beautiful beaches in Miami and Daytona, and natural wonders like the Everglades, it’s no wonder that Florida is a highly sought-after destination. It’s also one of the best places to travel in April, thanks to the moderate temperature and dry weather conditions that make outdoor exploration a pleasure rather than a challenging expedition. Provided you plan your break to avoid the school holidays and Easter, you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices in April than in the high season or winter. We recommend making the most of the outdoors by taking a dip in the hot springs of Blue Spring State Park, Silver Springs State Park, and Weeki Wachee Springs State Park.
13. Madhya Pradesh, India
Average temperature: 20°C (68°F) to 35°C (95°F)
Trip cost range per day: INR 1,800 to 6,300 (USD 21 to 75)
Main airport: Raja Bhoj Airport
If there’s ever a good time to search for India’s national animal, it’s April. The extremely dry climate can make the outdoors seem rather unforgiving, but it entices the otherwise elusive Bengal tigers to show their adorable faces at watering holes in the nature reserves of Madhya Pradesh. While the midday temperatures of 30°C plus may force you indoors, the first and last light provide excellent opportunities to marvel at architectural wonders like Gwalior Fort and the temples of Khajuraho. April also marks the end of the region’s high season, just before the hurricane season kicks in the month after.
14. Cotswolds, England
Average temperature: 5°C (41°F) to 13°C (55°F)
Trip cost range per day: GBP 175 to 480 (USD 221 to 608)
Main airport: Birmingham Airport
Characterized by its chocolate-box villages of golden stone homes and sprawling countryside, the Cotswolds in the United Kingdom are a truly delightful place to visit in Spring. From mid-April, cherry blossoms give the region even more character. You can admire superb collections of Japanese flowering cherries at Westonbirt and the Batsford Arboretum.
April is also an ideal time to visit the rolling vineyards of the Cotswolds, when the weather is fantastic (for UK standards), and crowds are rare. You can enjoy a tour and a tasting session at a popular vineyard such as the Little Oak Vineyard.
15. Ambergris Caye, Belize
Average temperature: 23°C (73°F) to 29°C (84°F)
Trip cost range per day: BZD 225 to 795 (USD 111 to 395) per person
Main airport: Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport
Celebrate the welcoming of the marvelous spring weather in April by heading to Belize on the eastern coast of the Caribbean Sea. Here, you can snorkel alongside a diverse array of tropical fish near the world’s second-longest barrier reef before the place becomes inundated with tourists and overly hot, rainy weather conditions.
Some of the best places to travel in April near the Belize Barrier Reef are the Great Blue Hole, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, and the Half Moon Caye. Above and below the water’s surface, you can expect cooler temperatures in April, so you can still enjoy the ocean in your bathing suit!
16. Canary Islands, Spain
Average temperature: 14°C (57°F) to 22°C (72°F)
Trip cost range per day: EUR 100 to 410 (USD 110 to 450)
Main airport: Tenerife South Airport
While you still have another month to wait before the beach season kicks into full swing in the Mediterranean, April is the ideal time to hit up the sandy stretches of the Canary Islands off the coast of the Western Sahara. The Easter holidays see islands like Tenerife fill up with tourists, but other weeks in April offer a relatively cheap and quiet time to visit. Beating the crowds is one thing, but evading the sweltering heat that May brings is the best advantage of flocking here in April.
17. Ouarzazate, Morocco
Average temperature: 11°C (52°F) to 27°C (81°F)
Trip cost range per day: MAD 470 to 1,500 (USD 47 to 150)
Main airport: Ouarzazate International Airport
With the night-time freezes of winter behind you and the unbearably hot conditions yet to arrive, April is an excellent time to venture into the desert plains and oasis towns of Morocco. The southern expanse of deep ochre canyons and sand dunes are a sight to behold when the weather allows. Moreover, camel riding, village excursions, dune bashing, and more are best enjoyed in the shoulder season.
For a place to stay, we recommend the city of Ouarzazate in the High Atlas Mountains. Nicknamed the ‘gateway to the Sahara’, Ouarzazate is home to historic landmarks that include the 19th-century palaces of the sprawling Taourirt Kasbah. From here, you can take in unobstructed views of the surrounding rugged landscape.
18. Cinque Terre,Liguria, Italy
Average temperature: 10°C (50°F) to 19°C (66°F)
Trip cost range per day: EUR 110 to 450 (USD 120 to 490)
Main airport: Genova City Airport
Home to the five UNESCO-listed seaside villages of the Cinque Terre, Liguria occupies a paradisiacal stretch along the Italian Riviera. While April still sees its fair share of showers, the intervening sunny days create amazing conditions to explore the steep huddles of colorful abodes that traverse winding trails on mountain faces without having to brush shoulders with armies of tourists. Many hotels reopen their doors in April after the long low season, and you’ll find no shortage of special offers.
Italy recently joined the list of countries that offer a self employment visa for digital nomads.
19. Red Sea, Egypt
Average temperature: 17°C (63°F) to 28°C (82°F)
Trip cost range per day: EGP 1,000 to 4,400 (USD 32 to 142)
Main airport: Sharm El Sheikh International Airport
The Red Sea is one of the best places to travel in April due to the cool temperature of the water and the not-so-sweltering temperatures above the surface. During spring, you’ll likely spot a hammerhead shark or two while snorkeling and diving. We recommend taking to the waters shortly after sunrise when visibility conditions are almost guaranteed to be excellent.
Many of the 5-star resorts near the Red Sea in Egypt offer discounts in April, provided you avoid traveling over the Easter holidays. Some of the most popular resorts include the Dahab and Sharm el-Sheikh, both of which make ideal jumping-off points for exploring the local underwater world.
While you’re here, take advantage of the inviting climate by embarking on excursions to Bedouin villages in the desert. Stargazing in the clear night sky makes for an enchanting finale to a day of cultural activities.
See the World This April!
Traveling in the April shoulder season gives you the best of all worlds – high-value prices, mostly great weather, blossoming flowers, and incredible attractions without the crowds. Whether you’re looking to make the most of off-peak skiing in the Alps, top up your tan on secluded beaches, or explore cities that burst into life in spring, the best places to travel in April are waiting for you to discover.
Looking for some March travel destinations? Check out our guide on the best places to visit in March.
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