places to visit in europe during easter

34 Amazing Easter City Breaks in Europe

Dive into the allure of Springtime across the continent with my guide on the best Easter city breaks in Europe . From the timeless beauty of Rome, where the Pope’s Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica resonates through European history , to the enchanting streets of Paris adorned with Easter blooms, this blog unveils the top destinations to celebrate the joyous season.

Whilst my slow travels normally plan for low season , seeing religious festivities such as Easter can transform cities into vibrant hubs, making these European gems an unforgettable experience.

So, whether you travel to observe the culture of Easter as a curious traveller, seek spiritual reflection or just happen to be looking where to go in Europe in April , you will find the perfect Easter holiday destination in this guide.

Best Easter City Breaks in Europe

Brussels, belgium.

Everyone knows that Belgium is renowned for its incredible chocolate…and what place could be better to head for the Easter celebrations to indulge in egg treats than the capital city of Brussels?

Brussels is packed with chocolate shops on every corner and at Easter time you will be amazed by the creations that can be made with the delicious treat. The city is so well-known for its chocolate that  chocolate tours   are one of the most common activities for tourists!

The Grand Place is just one location that you HAVE to visit on your trip as the shop windows display some of the grandest chocolate rabbits, eggs, and chickens that you have ever set eyes on!

You also can’t miss out on the Easter parade that barrels through the square during the festivities with music, characters, and dancing all spurring the crowds. If you’re travelling with children (or even if you aren’t!) you should find which locations are carrying out Easter egg hunts to partake in. They usually occur in the many parks across the city and anyone can take part!

With a large portion of the population practicing Catholicism and other denominations of Christianity, you will find many services occurring across Brussels on Easter Sunday should you wish to attend a Mass or sermon.

Plan your Easter city break in Brussels

BEST HOTELS IN BRUSSELS || TOP TOURS IN BRUSSELS

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Croatia is predominantly a Catholic country so a majority of Croatians celebrate Easter as per the Catholic religious calendar. Do note that all shops and markets are closed on Easter. 

Easter is considered the beginning of the season in Dubrovnik. It is a popular destination and gets very crowded in July and August. So, this is a good time to visit Dubrovnik. There is an Easter Fair held in the city which is great for local products and souvenirs. 

The weather is not as warm as summer, though. But that might be good for walking the walls of the old town. Dubrovnik old town is surrounded by thick high walls and walking the walls is one activity that cannot be missed. You get lovely views of the Adriatic Sea and the old town itself. We visited Dubrovnik at the end of the  2 weeks in Croatia  trip.

You can also take the cable car up the Srd Hill. There is an old fort up the hill waiting to be explored. But the best part of this cable car ride is the stunning views of the city and the ocean that lies beneath your feet. The bars and cafes come alive each evening in the old town.

Plan your Easter city break in Dubrovnik

BEST HOTELS IN DUBROVNIK || TOP TOURS IN DUBROVNIK || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Trogir, Croatia

Easter is such a special time to visit the stone jewel of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, Trogir . After a cold and sleepy winter, Easter marks the start of spring and a new tourist season. The weather during this time of year is typically sunny and warm enough for just a light jacket, which means the cafes will be filled with townspeople practicing their daily coffee ritual.

For Easter, locals prepare baskets filled with small portions of ham, Easter eggs, spring onions, radishes, and bread to be blessed by the priest. On Easter morning, baskets in hand, everyone heads to mass at the town cathedral, one of the  best places to visit in Trogir , greeting other neighbours and acquaintances along the way.

After mass, it’s common to mingle on the town square where there are sometimes performances by the local folklore group. Finally, everyone heads home for Easter breakfast and makes sure to get a bite of the food that was blessed at mass. Many families also play egg tapping, where they tap their Easter eggs against each other’s to see whose egg is the strongest — it’s a light-hearted competition that adds to the festive spirit!

Plan your Easter city break in Trogir

BEST HOTELS IN TROGIR || TOP TOURS IN TROGIR || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Olomouc, Czechia

Olomouc is a great place to spend Easter in Europe. The city celebrates with many events, as well as a unique Easter market that is specific to the Czech Republic. Olomouc is a small city, the former capital of the Moravia region. It is very beautiful, with Baroque and Renaissance architecture, as well as many pretty squares. It is still a hidden gem, undiscovered yet by the masses of tourists.

There are plenty  great things to do in Olomouc , especially over the Easter time. Visiting the market, which takes place in the Upper Square of Olomouc, is one of them. Here you will find traditional food, decorations, as well as the typical willow twigs decorated with colourful ribbons, which are part of the Easter Pomlázka tradition. Boys make these twigs and whip the legs of girls, which symbolises good luck and health in the following year. The more girls they visit, the more ribbons the twigs will have.

The city of Olomouc also gets decorated during Easter, with decorative eggs and ribbons. One of the streets you must visit, for their gorgeous decorations, is Šemberova. The community here is very tight and everyone decorates their house for Easter.

Plan your Easter city break in Olomouc

BEST HOTELS IN OLOMOUC || TOP TOURS IN OLOMOUC

Prague, Czechia

Prague comes alive at Easter time when the city focuses on celebrating the return of the Spring season with several markets available around the city.

The largest is the market located in Old Town Square. This square is charming already with stunning architecture and wonderful sites to see including the Town Hall, Tyn Church and the famous astronomical clock. But for three weeks around Easter, visitors can wander the square that has been festively decorated with birch tree branches, ribbons, and spring décor. 

Many wooden huts are set up within the square housing vendors where you can shop for beautiful gifts including hand-painted eggs, chocolates, handicrafts, and decorated cookies.

While there, you can enjoy treats such as Medovina – a warm honey wine, traditional sausages, and the famous chimney cakes. All can be savoured while watching folk concerts and school groups perform on the centre stage.

This is a magical place to visit for the Easter holiday season and will be well enjoyed by all.

Plan your Easter city break in Prague

BEST HOTELS IN PRAGUE || TOP TOURS IN PRAGUE || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

|| MORE PRAGUE READS YOU MIGHT LIKE

• 2 DAYS IN PRAGUE
• SURREAL ART IN PRAGUE
• BEST PLACES TO STAY IN PRAGUE
• REVIEW: DREAM HOUSE HOSTEL PRAGUE

London, England

While  London is well-known for its Christmas charm , the city also brims with excitement during Easter. The four-day bank holiday weekend at the capital is often packed with events and activities for all ages, turning the city into a vibrant Easter playground.

From guided walks exploring the city’s history to sporting pursuits in little-known parks, there’s no shortage of things to do in London over the Easter break. The city’s churches, including St Paul’s Cathedral, Westminster Abbey, and Southwark Cathedral, offer a range of services to celebrate the season. For families, venues such as Hampton Court Palace (known for Lindt Gold Bunny Hunt, among other things) and Chelsea Physic Gardens host delightful Easter trails. Various gardens and public parks host spring fairs, while music fills busy squares and the likes of Royal Albert Hall alike.

London’s food scene also shines during Easter. From traditional Sunday roasts – complete with vegan and vegetarian options – to last-minute shopping at the city’s top chocolate shops, there’s something for every palate. And let’s not forget the city’s bustling pubs — The warmer weather brings Londoners out in droves, with sunglasses perched optimistically on their foreheads as they fill out the outside tables and terraces. This infectious atmosphere, combined with the city’s stunning spring beauty, makes Easter in London truly special.

With so much on offer, it’s clear that London is one of the best European cities to visit for Easter. Whether you’re seeking tradition, fun, food, or adventure, you’ll find it all in this exciting metropolis! And whatever you do, don’t leave it without trying Cadbury Cream Eggs and Hot Cross Buns!

Plan your Easter city break in London

BEST HOTELS IN LONDON || TOP TOURS IN LONDON

Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux is known as the wine capital of France, but over Easter, it becomes the chocolate capital. Everything revolves around chocolate, Easter Eggs, and Les Cloches de Pâques (the Easter Bells). 

According to French tradition, it’s actually the Easter Bells, and not the Easter Bunny, who delivers the eggs for the children to find.

Some of the best chocolate shops in Bordeaux provide the eggs for the different hunts that take place both in and out of the city. One of the most fun is the annual Roll’easter, an Easter Egg hunt on rollerskaters, held in Darwin in the Bordeaux metropole.

Every year, Kfé Des Familles organise a traditional hunt in the Bacalan neighbourhood of Bordeaux, where children are split up according to age. 

And for the adults, there is a focus on pairing wine with chocolate. What’s not to enjoy? Château Léoville-Poyferré and Hasnaâ Chocolats have collaborated to create a wine and chocolate tour at the chateau that pairs the two together for you to try, along with a gift box to take home. 

Plan your Easter city break in Bordeaux

BEST HOTELS IN BORDEAUX || TOP TOURS IN BORDEAUX || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Nice, France

Nice, France is a fantastic place to celebrate Easter (Pâques in French). The city in Southern France has festivities in both religious and cultural practices. This creates a unique and immersive experience for visitors. One of the highlights is the grand religious procession that takes place through the historic streets of Nice. There are ornate floats, adorned with flowers – it truly is an incredible sight. Through the procession, participants carry religious icons, a nod to the devoted spirit of the city.

For those seeking a more religious experience, attending the Easter Mass at the iconic Nice Cathedral is an experience. This grand cathedral is the centrepiece of the Catholic religion in the area. Old Nice also has 9 churches within a square mile, all offering Easter services.

Beyond religious observances, Nice offers several activities during Easter time. The iconic Promenade des Anglais becomes a hub of lively festivities, with street performances, live music, and parades. Visitors can indulge in the festive atmosphere while exploring local markets, where traditional Easter treats like “Pain Bénit” (blessed bread) and chocolate eggs can be found.

Travellers can also take a quick (15 to 30-minute) train ride to  Cannes   or Antibes to experience Easter weekend, which stretches observances from Thursday to Monday.

Plan your Easter city break in Nice

BEST HOTELS IN NICE || TOP TOURS IN NICE || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Paris, France

France is famously a secular country, but Easter is still celebrated there, and Paris is a great place to be over the Easter weekend.

For church enthusiasts, you could catch an Easter concert at one of the many spectacular churches in Paris, including the astonishing Sainte-Chapelle. This 13th-century Gothic church has colourful stained-glass windows and a beautiful midnight blue ceiling, strewn with gold stars – it’s a magical place to visit.

Paris in Spring  is famously gorgeous, with flowers and cherry blossoms blooming all around the city. But over the Easter period, there are some extra special treats.

And for children, there are easter egg hunts at several of the city’s parks and museums, including the Rodin Museum and Musée de Montmartre.

Finally, the patisseries of Paris will be full of yummy Easter chocolate. You can find eggs and bunnies, but there is also a French tradition to have chocolate fish and bells.

The fish relates to a tradition where children stick a paper fish (Poisson d’Avril) on the back of someone else as an April Fool’s joke. The bells (Cloches Volantes) are from a legend that on Good Friday, the church bells fly to the Vatican in Rome and back again on Easter morning, having carried away the grief of those mourning Jesus.

À la Mère de Famille is a wonderful chocolate shop where you can choose from many fancy Easter treats.

Plan your Easter city break in Paris

BEST HOTELS IN PARIS || TOP TOURS IN PARIS || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Tbilisi, Georgia

With vibrant and culturally rich traditions for Easter,  Tbilisi , the capital of Georgia, is a perfect destination to visit during Easter. The city transforms into an atmosphere of joy, happiness, and spiritual significance. One of the main celebrations of the city during Easter is the Sameba, a festival celebrated in the Holy Trinity Cathedral of Tbilisi. The cathedral hosts religious services and processions that are very popular among the locals and tourists. Religious people participate in the midnight Easter service.

The city hosts many colorful and joyous events on Easter Sunday. Even though many places across the city have these events, Rike Park especially becomes a festive hub where families get together to participate in various activities. There are Easter egg hunts, traditional dances, and folk performances for guests to become part of the Georgian traditions.

Easter is enjoyable for foodies as Tbilisi’s local markets are a feast with many traditional Georgian Easter foods and dishes. They are unique and delicious. You should try the Paska, colored eggs, and Churchkhela (the eastern dessert). 

Plan your Easter city break in Tbilisi

BEST HOTELS IN TBILISI || TOP TOURS IN TBLISI

Bayreuth, Germany

One of the more underrated and coolest places to visit in Europe for Easter and a highly under-the-radar destination in Germany is the city of Bayreuth , located in Franconia, Northern Bavaria. 

Those who have heard of Bayreuth, probably have heard about its’ renowned music and opera scene, is home to composer Richard Wagner who built the Bayreuth Festspielhaus, a specially designed opera house for the performance of his works that holds an annual festival each year.

Beyond the Festspiehlaus, Bayreuth is also home to another opera house, one of the most beautiful and famous opera houses in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Margravial Opera House. Both of which survived heavy bombing during WWII.

Beyond the incredible cultural scene here, Bayreuth continues the Franconian tradition of easter fountains, which you can find all over the city known as Osterbrunnen. The Osterbrunnen tradition includes decorating the sources of water around the city as a celebration of water, fertility, and springtime which are known as the essentials of life.

This tradition started in the early 20th century in Franconian Switzerland and spread throughout the region. Many are decorated with flowers, eggs, and other festive decorations that stay up from Good Friday to about two weeks after Easter.  It’s really fun to wander the streets of Bayreuth, stopping in their incredible breweries like Maisel’s Bier-Erlebnis-Welt, a brewery famous for its wheat beer worldwide and is even one of the top wheat beer producers in Germany between visiting the brightly colourful and decorated Easter fountains!

Plan your Easter city break in Bayreuth

BEST HOTELS IN BAYREUTH || TOP TOURS IN BAYREUTH

Athens, Greece

Athens is one of the most historic cities in Europe and one of the most hospitable.

Easter in Greece regularly falls on a different weekend than most non-Orthodox countries, as it follows the Julian calendar. This means there are a few different “Easter” experiences to be had in the city – visit during western Easter and enjoy the fact that all venues are open as normal, or visit during Orthodox Easter and immerse yourself in the Greek’s enthusiastic celebrations.

A quiet weekend in April, when western Easter is being celebrated, can provide a unique experience to enjoy Athens in a quieter environment but still with the warm weather.

Visiting Athens during Orthodox Easter is a unique experience. The weekend-long celebrations start with the Midnight Resurrection Services in the Orthodox Church, where the congregation holds a funeral procession with candles. The city celebrates with fireworks and music, a celebration of the resurrection best experienced in the Plaka or Monastiraki in Athens. Sunday is the feast day, and you expect to find traditional food such as roasted lamb and Easter bread.

Plan your Easter city break in Athens

BEST HOTELS IN ATHENS || TOP TOURS IN ATHENS || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Corfu Town, Greece

Looking for one of the best cities in Europe to celebrate Easter? Head to Corfu Town! This   Ionian gem is well-visited  for its complex history and stunning landscape and is one of the best places to celebrate Easter in Greece! 

Easter is the most celebrated holiday of the Greek Orthodox Church and provides an excellent way to witness local Greek culture. While the festivities occur across the city, Liston Square is the centre of events. 

One of the most exciting days of the Holy Week is Good Friday. This day is marked with decorated Epitaphs paraded through the streets alongside musical performers. These festivities begin in the early afternoon and end late at night.

Meanwhile, Easter Saturday witnesses one of the most unique celebrations by Corfiots. Acknowledging the First Resurrection, large clay pots are thrown out of balconies and windows on the festive streets. This is a representation of removing bad luck and promises future good fortune.

Easter Sunday is quieter, with locals spending quality time with their families. On Sunday, delicious feasts are prepped with several local dishes. The cuisine for Easter includes roasted lamb, egg-lemon soup, red eggs, and various wines.

Plan your Easter city break in Corfu

BEST HOTELS IN CORFU || TOP TOURS IN CORFU || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Budapest, Hungary

One of the best places for an Easter getaway in Europe is Budapest, which boasts distinct Easter customs, colourful festive fairs and gorgeous city architecture.

Head to Vörösmarty Square located a 10-minute walk from St Stephens Basilica, which hosts the Easter Festival. Here, you’ll be able to fill your belly with hearty Hungarian food. Easter Saturday marks the end of the forty-day Lent, which gives another great reason to gorge on traditional food consisting of braided bread loaves, slow-cooked ham, and boiled eggs. Other foods to try include langos, comforting goulash soup, and sweet trdelnik.

Kids can decorate their eggs, and the whole family can take part in an Egg hunt .

In the evening, go on a river dinner cruise to admire the Hungarian capital from a different perspective, eat more Hungarian food and watch the folk show. 

If you have a spare day, rent a car in Budapest and explore the nearby wine region – Etyek, or go hiking at the Rám-Szakadék. 

Plan your Easter city break in Budapest

BEST HOTELS IN BUDAPEST || TOP TOURS IN BUDAPEST

Enniskerry, Ireland

Enniskerry in County Wicklow, Ireland, is a magical place to celebrate the Easter holiday in Ireland. This small Irish town is nestled just outside of Dublin the countryside of County Wicklow. In 2021, it was a filming location for Disney’s “Disenchanted” movie. 

The best place to celebrate Easter in Enniskerry is at Powerscourt Estate and Gardens. You can stay in the beautiful hotel, and then enjoy breakfast followed by an Easter egg hunt for children. 

Ahead of Easter Sunday, there is typically a procession on Good Friday from St Mary’s Church to St Patrick’s Church of Ireland.

On Easter Sunday, families often celebrate with dinner featuring a roast leg of lamb. If you’re just visiting, head to the Avoca in Kilmacanogue, where you can try traditional Irish dishes in their cafeteria or the more upscale Fern House Cafe. Powerscourt Hotel, along with other hotels and pubs, typically serves Easter dinner to locals and visitors alike on Sunday to celebrate the holiday. 

If you want to extend your trip, there are plenty of things to do in Wicklow to keep you busy. You can hike in Glendalough, visit an Irish beach, or see the thought-provoking granite statues of Victor’s Way. 

Plan your Easter city break in Enniskerry

BEST HOTELS IN ENNIISKERRY || TOP TOURS IN ENNIISKERRY

Bologna, Italy

Bologna is one of Italy’s hidden gems. During Easter, the city and surrounding hillside come to life with beautiful wildflowers and greenery. It’s one of the most beautiful times  to visit Bologna .  

Known as Italy’s foodie capital, it’s no surprise that locals in Bologna have a traditional feast for Easter lunch. Typically, Easter lunch includes a Bolognese classic, lasagna made with ragu and bechamel sauce. This is followed by a meat dish that is usually made of lamb or rabbit. Finally, for dessert, rice cake is served – a classic from this region. 

On Easter Monday, a unique local tradition takes place where residents take part in a scenic walk up to the Sanctuary of San Luca on the Guardia Hill overlooking Bologna. The walk takes you up the longest portico in the world and is a way for people to socialize and get outside over the long weekend. 

If you are visiting Bologna over Easter weekend, plan for many shop and restaurant closures. Some restaurants may be open for Easter lunch, in which case, you should book ahead a few weeks in advance. 

Plan your Easter city break in Bologna

BEST HOTELS IN BOLOGNA || TOP TOURS IN BOLOGNA

Florence, Italy

Easter is a special time of year in the Tuscan city of Florence and is celebrated over five days starting the Thursday before Easter Sunday and finishing on Easter Monday.

During this long weekend, you can find chocolate eggs and dove-shaped cakes in the Florentian bakeries and sweet shops.

On the first day of Easter, which is known as Holy Thursday, the Catholic churches open their doors and welcome visitors to their altars to commemorate missa in coena Domini (in memory of the Last Supper). Churches remain open until midnight and are decorated brightly with colourful flowers and plants.

There are religious processions that parade through the city centers the following days on Good Friday and Saturday.

The Saturday of Easter Weekend is the most iconic Easter event in Florence takes place. It is known as the Scoppio del Carro, (“Explosion of the Cart”) in English. A 30-foot tall antique cart is brought to the Piazza del Duomo in the morning, and around 11 am, the Archbishop of Florence will light a rocket shaped like a dove which will set off a 20-minute firework show. This tradition dates back over 350 years and is a special event for more Florentines and visitors.

Another highlight of being in Florence during Easter is that most of the museums in Florence will be open, including Easter Monday. This is a great thing to do if you’re in Florence with kids , or in a group of adults. Even museums that are usually closed on Mondays, are typically open especially for Easter on Easter Monday.  Check the museum websites for special hours over Easter.

With iconic activities and special treats, Florence is a great place to observe and celebrate Easter. Buona Pasqua!

Plan your Easter city break in Florence

BEST HOTELS IN FLORENCE || TOP TOURS IN FLORENCE || ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Rome, Italy

On the occasion of the Easter holiday, Italians have the opportunity to do something they don’t usually do: brunch. In Rome, the hearty Easter Sunday breakfast brings the whole family together. The meal includes lots of hard-boiled eggs, some simple donut-shaped cakes, or “ciambellone,” salami of various kinds, and fried lamb chops. For the little ones, parents purchase chocolate eggs. The ciambellone must be strictly homemade. There is also a savoury version of the cake, which contains cheese and bits of ham: it is the “Easter pizza,” very different from the ordinary pizza.

To fully experience the religious atmosphere, if you are in Rome on Easter Sunday, you could attend the Pope’s Mass in person. The mass takes place at  St. Peter’s Basilica  at 10 am. Admission is free, but you must reserve a place in advance by contacting the  Prefecture of the Papal Household  in the month preceding the event. Immediately after the Mass, at noon, the Pope blesses the faithful from a balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square.

Please note that the Vatican Museums are closed on Easter Monday.

Young adults look forward to Easter Monday, when, by tradition, they gather with friends for a BBQ. Young Romans for the occasion usually take a day trip to  Lake Bracciano  or the Castelli Romani area. Contemporary Italians, although mostly baptised Catholics, are not observant.

Older people are the most devout. On the Sunday of the week before Easter, they attend a neighbourhood mass where the priest distributes blessed olive branches. The faithful then distribute the olive branches among other “less observant” family members.

Plan your Easter city break in Rome

BEST HOTELS IN ROME || TOP TOURS IN ROME ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Riga, Latvia

Easter in Riga is a vibrant blend of Christian and pagan traditions. After the long, cold, and dark winter, the city begins to burst with life as springtime arrives, and the Easter festivities begin.

The celebrations of Lieldienas, or Easter, typically fall on the first Sunday after the full moon following the vernal equinox. Like other places that celebrate Easter, the date can range from 22nd March to 25th April.

During Easter his period sees Riga transform into a hub of festive activities. You’ll experience religious processions, as well as traditional customs that are deeply rooted in both Christian beliefs and ancient pagan rituals.

One of the largest Easter events takes place at Lucavsala Recreation Park. The Open Air Museum also hosts traditional Latvian Easter events that provide a glimpse into the country’s heritage.

Children either take part in colouring eggs or do egg hunts and traditional foods are eaten. The holiday feast often includes dishes like pīrāgi, a kind of bacon pastry, and mazgājmaize, a rye bread soaked in water and baked. Apart from the Easter festivities, there are plenty of things to add to your Riga itinerary . These include exploring the city’s stunning historical centre – which has UNESCO Heritage listed status, as well as lively markets – set in an old zeppelin hangar – the Riga city market is one of the biggest in Europe. Riga is also home to one of the most concentrated areas of Art Nouveau-style buildings which is also worth exploring.

Plan your Easter city break in Riga

BEST HOTELS IN RIGA || TOP TOURS IN RIGA

Valletta, Malta

Valletta, the capital of Malta, stands out as one of the best places in Europe to celebrate Easter, offering a unique blend of tradition, culture, and religious significance. The city’s historic charm and narrow winding streets create a picturesque setting for Easter festivities. Valletta’s rich Catholic heritage is showcased during this time, with processions and religious events that attract visitors from around the world.

The week leading up to Easter is marked with statues depicting biblical scenes being paraded through the streets. Both locals and visitors come together to witness and participate in these age-old rituals. St. John’s Co-Cathedral also plays a central role in the celebrations, so is well to visit here. 

Apart from the religious events, Valletta also offers a vibrant atmosphere with its lively markets and traditional Maltese cuisine so it is worth   booking a tour to explore the area .  You can also easily reach other epic parts of Malta from Valletta like Victoria and Rabat. Hiring a car is the best way to get around but public transport is so great, you will have zero problems exploring!

Plan your Easter city break in Valletta

BEST HOTELS IN VALLETT A || TOP TOURS IN VALLETTA ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Kotor, Montenegro

During Easter, Kotor, Montenegro, becomes a lovely destination where Orthodox and Catholic communities harmoniously celebrate their respective traditions. As each faith celebrates Easter a week apart, it’s a 2-1 for Easter and a very important national holiday.

This stunning scenic walled town, nestled in the Boka Bay, is steeped in religious and cultural activities and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Catholics converge on St Tryphon’s cathedral and Orthodox at the Church of St. Nicolas right in the heart of the old town.

Nature enthusiasts can venture up the serpentine path to the San Giovanni Castle, also known as  Kotor Fortress , where the panoramic views of the bay serve as a breathtaking backdrop for the Easter festivities. 

After the ascent, visitors can indulge in a feast that reflects the town’s diverse heritage, with Orthodox and Catholic families sharing succulent roasted lamb and sweet “pogača” bread and hunting elaborately decorated Easter eggs. 

The blend of religious observances, communal feasting, and outdoor adventures in the mild spring weather make Kotor an ideal Easter getaway, offering a taste of Montenegro’s diverse cultural and natural mountains and sea beauty.

Plan your Easter city break in Kotor

BEST HOTELS IN KOTOR || TOP TOURS IN KOTOR ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is one of the best European cities to visit for easter. At this time of year, tulip season springs to life in the Netherlands. This draws in millions of visitors hoping to experience the beautiful blooms for themselves. 

Tulip fields such as Keukenhof, The Tulip Experience, and The Tulip Barn are a must-see while exploring the area. Although Keukenhof is overrun with tourists, it’s one of those spots that everyone should visit at least once. Afterward, you can head to lesser-known fields for a more relaxed environment. 

If you’re travelling with children, easter is one of the  best times to visit the Dutch capital . This is especially true if the little ones love animals. 

On Easter Sunday each year, zoos open up their doors for easter fun-focused activities. For example, they often organise egg hunts and meals surrounded by wildlife and animals. How cool does that sound? Lastly, exploring Amsterdam in spring brings a lot of charm, incredible memories and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Why not check it out for yourself?

Plan your Easter city break in Amsterdam

BEST HOTELS IN AMSTERDAM || TOP TOURS IN AMSTERDAM

Krakow, Poland

Visiting Krakow at Easter   means enjoying one of Europe’s most picturesque cities at an extremely special time of year thanks to Poland’s rich Catholic heritage.

Easter Monday is known in Poland as Wet Monday. Poles playfully splash water on each other but it’s mostly kept at home.

You can count on eating tons of great food, mostly from the market at the Market Square, walking around the Old Town in awe, checking out a church or two, and enjoying the laidback vibe.

The Easter market in Krakow held typically for two weeks leading up to Easter Monday, is awesome for foodies, offering dumplings, sausage, and grilled cheese. Wash it down with beer from barrel-shaped stalls.

Krakow’s Wawel Castle is closed during Easter Sunday and Monday but you can still walk through the courtyard and enjoy the atmosphere. 

While in Krakow , you don’t have to shy away from jumping on the most popular day trip – to the Wieliczka Salt Mine. It closes only on Easter Sunday.

Plan your Easter city break in Krakow

BEST HOTELS IN KRAKOW || TOP TOURS IN KRAKOW

Faro, Portugal

The Algarve in Portugal is one of the sunniest places in mainland Europe and its capital city, Faro is a fabulous Easter break destination. The small city boasts a traditional charm with its tiled buildings and medieval churches. All enhanced during Easter’s processions. Listen to Fado performances and eat all the traditional Easter food while exploring the city’s main attractions like the cathedral and Arco de Vila.

To explore the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park, go hiking, Like the Ludo Trail, or join one of the many  Faro boat tours  taking you to the barrier islands. But don’t forget to try traditional Easter cakes like Pão-de-Ló and Folar da Páscoa (which is sweet in the Algarve as opposed to the north where it’s savoury.) You will also find chocolate easter eggs everywhere.

On Easter Sunday, make your way to Loulé where you will experience one of the biggest Easter Processions in the country.

Plan your Easter city break in Faro

BEST HOTELS IN FARO || TOP TOURS IN FARO ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Funchal [Madeira], Portugal

Easter in Madeira unfolds like a vibrant tapestry of traditions, enticing every curious traveller to witness the island’s unique blend of religious and cultural celebrations.

In predominantly Catholic Madeira, Funchal, the capital, is a focal point for festivities.

Commencing with the Lord’s Last Supper Mass on Holy Thursday, immerse yourself in the captivating processions that feature  ornate flower-laden floats , traditional costumes and hymns when the iconic Church of Our Lady of Monte hosts an unforgettable Good Friday procession.  On Easter Sunday the atmospheric Church of São Pedro offers a religious experience with an Easter vigil.

Embrace the spirit of the season with traditional Madeiran dishes like ‘Carne Vinha d’Alhos’ and ‘Bolo de Mel,’ showcasing the island’s culinary prowess.

Madeira is a must-visit location with its breathtaking mountain landscapes and colourful festivities that weave Easter celebrations into an unforgettable travel experience. 

Plan your Easter city break in Funchal

BEST HOTELS IN FUNCHAL || TOP TOURS IN FUNCHAL ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Lisbon, Portugal

Are you asking yourself “ Is Lisbon worth visiting  for Easter?” Absolutely yes. Lisbon is a wonderful place to spend easter with sunny, mild days. The Portuguese celebrate with religious processions and religious rituals throughout the week, though not as prominent as in other cities like Braga.

Most of all, it is about the food in Lisbon. Most families gather at home over large meals of roasted lamb, but you can enjoy typical Easter dishes at any traditional restaurant in the city. Make sure you try the typical Easter treats, like coloured almonds, and chocolate eggs, and not to mention the Pão-de-Ló, a delectable Easter cake.

If you want to attend mass, make it the Easter Sunday morning mass in Lisbon’s Sé Cathedral. It is also very popular to listen to Fado performances during Easter in Lisbon.

When visiting the city, make sure you see the main attractions like the Sao Jorge Castle overlooking the city from one of the 7 hills, walk the corridors of Jeronimos Monastery, and climb the Belém Tower.

Plan your Easter city break in Lisbon

BEST HOTELS IN LISBON || TOP TOURS IN LISBON ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Sibiu, Romania

Easter is one of the most important holidays of the year in Romania. Each part of the country has its own traditions, and Sibiu is a great place to visit to experience them.

Sibiu is one of the most beautiful cities in Transylvania. It sits at the foothills of Fagaras mountain range, which you can see on a clear day from the city centre. It is relatively a small city, with a walkable old town famous for the Big and Little Squares, and the Bridge of Lies.

The celebrations start on the Sunday before Easter, which is called the “Flower Sunday”. If your name is flower-related, and there are quite a few in Romania, this would be your name day. On the Big Thursday, people go to church to mourn the death of Jesus, whilst on the Friday they return here to “pass under the table”. This symbolises the burial of Jesus in the ground and his resurrection from the ground. And it is exactly what you think, passing under a table, in the church. 

On the Saturday before Easter, people go to church again at midnight, to “take light”. The Romanian chief of church flies every year to Jerusalem and brings the light – in form of a candle, to share among all churches in the country. At midnight, the priest of every church holds a ceremony and shares the light from that candle to everyone gathered in the yard. People then come back home with the lit candle, to bring the resurrection of Jesus in their houses.

The big Easter dinner takes place on the Sunday. It is a feast, with  traditional Romanian dishes   such as red eggs, sarmale, roast pork, and cozonac, where the entire family is invited around a big table.

On Easter Monday, in Sibiu, boys go around girl’s houses and spray them with perfume. This comes from an old tradition, where boys used to pour water over girls on this day. It symbolises the “watering of a flower”, to blossom and be healthy in the new year.

Plan Plan your Easter city break in Sibiu

BEST HOTELS IN SIBI U || TOP TOURS IN SIBIU

Glasgow, Scotland

Looking for a fun-filled Easter activity in Glasgow? Join the Elder Emo Easter Egg Hunt, a one-of-a-kind event that promises a great party in the city centre of Glasgow.

Experience the charm of Glasgow during the off-peak season, when the city is less crowded and you can truly appreciate its beauty.  Glasgow Hop on the hop-off bus tour   allows you to discover the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Glasgow Cathedral, Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and the Riverside Museum. 

With a variety of museums to choose from, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Easter craft activities. In Scotland, Easter is also a time when people come together to enjoy a variety of delicious traditional dishes. Easter meals often feature lamb as the main dish. Roast lamb is a popular choice, and it is typically seasoned with herbs and served with a side of vegetables and potatoes. One of the best places to indulge yourself in tasty lamb is the Drake restaurant located at Lynedoch Street in Glasgow.

Plan your Easter city break in Glasgow

BEST HOTELS IN GLASGOW || TOP TOURS IN GLASGOW

Ljubljana, Slovenia

The beautiful city of Ljubljana is a real insider tip for an Easter trip. In the Slovenian capital, you can expect a truly beautiful Easter celebration, with a wonderful mix of vibrant tradition and festivity. The city’s cobbled streets are beautifully decorated, and the markets are in full Easter mode. On a holiday there are so many  things to do in Ljubljana  and on top you can enjoy a unique and very joyful Easter atmosphere.

It is interesting to visit on Palm Sunday when it is customary to take colourful decorated palm or olive branches to church for blessing. These can be bought beforehand at the large market in Ljubljana. You can also buy beautifully painted Easter eggs to decorate your home at this market.

On Easter Sunday, be sure to attend the solemn Easter Mass at St. Nicholas Cathedral. This beautiful cathedral is located right in the Old Town, on Dolničarjeva Street. After the Easter mass, people usually meet with family and friends. Some restaurants also serve a traditional Slovenian Easter snack with boiled eggs, ham, spicy horseradish and the slightly sweet bread called potica.

Plan your Easter city break in Ljubljana

BEST HOTELS IN LJUBLJANA || TOP TOURS IN LJUBLJANA ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Malaga, Spain

One of the best places to celebrate Easter in Europe is Malaga. Despite being known for its beaches,  Malaga is worth visiting  for its traditional events like Easter too.

Easter, known as Semana Santa in Spanish, is a huge celebration in the city as well as the rest of Southern Spain. It starts on Palm Sunday (Domingo de Ramos) and finishes on Easter Monday (Lunes de Pascua).

The streets of Malaga’s city centre fill up with locals and tourists wanting to see the religious processions that run day and night during Easter week.

Religious sculptures on beautifully decorated floats are carried by men who belong to brotherhoods. However, others take part in the procession by following it during the entire route.

The atmosphere is unique – the smell of incense and the sound of the drums are part of the experience. For those who love food, there are some traditional Easter dishes to try, like Torrijas (similar to French Toast) and Potaje de vigilia, a stew made with chickpeas, cod, spinach, and hard-boiled eggs.

Plan your Easter city break in Malaga

BEST HOTELS IN MALAGA || TOP TOURS IN MALAGA ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Santiago de Compostela, Spain

Santiago de Compostela , in the north of Spain, is an exciting place to spend Easter. This city marks the end of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year from all over the world. It becomes even more mystical during Easter.

Every day, there are concerts in churches and religious processions. Members of different brotherhoods walk the streets carrying images, wearing habits and cones covered with cloth on their heads. They walk dragging chains barefoot and playing drums. Witnessing this spectacle is indeed like traveling back in time to the medieval period, as these traditions have been maintained in the same way since the 17th century.

Throughout these days, visitors enjoy a particular gastronomy marked by traditional sweets such as fried milk, bread rolls and “passion” chocolates. Cloistered nuns sell ancestral almond pastries made to order, which they deliver through the convent turnstiles. These secret recipes have been jealously guarded by them throughout the centuries.

The weather in Santiago de Compostela is also pleasant, with an average temperature of 16°C (61°F) between the last week of March and the first week of April.

Plan your Easter city break in Santiago de Compostela

BEST HOTELS IN SANTIAGO DE COMPSTELA || TOP TOURS IN SANTIAGO DE COMPSTELA

Seville, Spain

Beautiful Seville in southern Spain is one of the most famous European destinations for Easter. 

The Holy Week and  Easter in Spain  are popular religious and artistic events. Spectacular religious Holy Week processions in Seville are the most famous in Spain.

The Holy Week parades go along the streets of Seville from Palm Sunday to Easter. Seventy religious brotherhoods (members of different Seville parishes) parade in the processions from their parish churches to the Cathedral of Seville during the Holy Week. 

Gigantic and beautifully decorated floats (called tronos) with scenes of the Passion of Christ and Sorrowful Mary are carried in the processions. The barefoot Nazarenos in distinctive robes and pointed hoods covering their faces and the mourning women in black accompany the thrones while the mournful ‘saetas’ music follows the processions. The most spectacular procession of the Holy Week in Seville happens on the night from Maundy Thursday to Good Friday. 

This kind of Holy Week celebration in Seville dates back to the Middle Ages. So, head to Seville for Easter to see some of the oldest and most famous Holy Week celebrations. And don’t forget to try Flores Fritas, the crunchy cookies traditionally prepared for Holy Week in Seville! 

Plan your Easter city break in Seville

BEST HOTELS IN SEVILLE || TOP TOURS IN SEVILLE ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Bern, Switzerland

Bern is the capital of Switzerland famous for its magnificent architecture and the gorgeous Aare River. Bern is a perfect place to celebrate Easter if you happen to be in Switzerland during this time.

When it comes to Easter celebrations, Bern is a fun place to be. Every Easter, a typical Swiss “Eiertütschete” or egg tapping, takes place in Old Town Bern on Kornhausplatz. During the event, participants tap their eggs against their opponent’s and whoever cracks the opponent’s shell, gets to win. Dozens of the games take place on the square, and those who win advance forward.

Bern has one of the most cheerful celebrations with many participants and observers. All you need to do is boil and colour your eggs and find another person who wants to challenge you.

This fun event is open for participation to everyone, and according to historic records, it was first mentioned in the 19th century, by Hans Eggimann, a well-known Bernese architect and painter.

You can also check the local calendar for Easter events like Easter egg hunts, and traditional Easter markets.

Plan your Easter city break in Bern

BEST HOTELS IN BERN || TOP TOURS IN BERN ||  ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

Lugano, Switzerland

A festive destination to visit during Easter is in Switzerland, specifically to Lugano in the Ticino canton. 

Easter celebrations in Lugano are usually held for the whole Easter weekend in the city centre. These celebrations include a large Easter market, a treasure hunt at Parco Ciani, local folk and Alphorn music and street entertainment. There are also a few guided tours to explore the city of Lugano on foot. 

The city during Easter weekend is usually a warm one, with temperatures between 17°c and 24°c. Great for those wanting some Easter sunshine too! 

For delicacies, Lugano is one of the Italian-speaking cantons of Switzerland, so the treats and goodies during Easter are very much inspired by Italian cuisine. A delicious tradition to eat is the Colombe di Pasqua, the Easter doves. These are sweet yeast pastries that all local bakeries sell leading up to Easter. Alternatively, you can try a polenta or risotto dish.  Those living locally also like to enjoy the long weekend to get up into the mountains for a hike. Lugano is surrounded by many, such as Monte Tamaro and Monte San Salvatore. Discover also these  Spring activities In Lugano  for an enjoyable Easter Weekend in Ticino.

Plan your Easter city break in Lugano

BEST HOTELS IN LUGANO || TOP TOURS IN LUGANO

PIN FOR YOUR EASTER HOLIDAY IN EUROPE

Disclosure : This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something that I’ve recommended. It comes at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

I'm a content creator for She Wanders Miles ♡ Digital marketer, photographer, hiker, and nature lover ♡ Passion for slow, sustainable and responsible travel ♡ Join me in discovering our beautiful world across 7 continents.

Similar Posts

21+ Amazing Things To Do in Paphos Cyprus in 2024

Chester Weekend Break | 2 Day Chester Itinerary

How to spend 2 days in Antigua Guatemala

3 Days in Dorset | Best Itinerary To Follow 

5 things to do in Srinagar in 36 hours | Kashmir

19 Adventurous (& Chilled) Things To Do in Baños Ecuador

Great post. Lots of great ideas thanks, but Slovenia is my favorite one .

I really want to visit Slovenia, the scenery looks incredible!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• X (Twitter)

The World’s 21 Best Easter Holiday Destinations

Last updated on October 12th, 2023 at 11:45 am

Easter is one of our favourite times to travel and this is why we decided to compile a list of the best Easter holiday destinations in the world.

We love to travel during Easter for many reasons. First of all, Easter is in spring and the latter is by far the optimal season to plan a trip. Spring means long days, warm weather and nature looking prettier than ever. Also, we love to travel at Easter because this is one of the best opportunities to get acquainted with the traditions and customs of the destinations we’re visiting.

In this list, we have included our very own favourite destination for an unforgettable Easter vacation, which is Bologna in Italy. All other destinations on this list are suggestions by our travel blogger friends who were kind enough to share with us their own favourite places to visit at Easter. Enjoy!

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit our  Disclosure page .

The featured image was kindly provided by and belongs to Gabi of The Tiny Book .

21 Best Easter Holiday Destinations

1. bologna, italy.

Italy is by far one of the best Easter holiday destinations. Not only because it’s, well, Italy, which means splendid weather, mouthwatering food, exceptional art and superb nature, but also because it is a country with centuries-old Christian traditions that are worth checking out.

We spend our Easter holidays in Italy almost every year. One of our favourite places to go for Easter is Bologna, the largest city in the stunning Emilia Romagna region and the country’s indisputable food capital. Bologna is a historical city with many treasures to discover and a unique laid-back feeling, so worth a visit any time of year. However, it is at Easter that Bologna becomes all the more charming.

During the Easter holidays, locals and visitors alike come together to fill the streets of the historic centre with laughter and joyful vibes. People buy for themselves or as gifts the traditional Colomba , a delicious Easter cake in the shape of a dove, as well as chocolate eggs of all sizes. On Good Friday and Holy Saturday, almost all churches hold Easter masses and processions.

Easter Sunday is more of a family affair in Italy with people staying at home to spend quality time with their loved ones. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing for visitors, though. On Easter Sunday, you get to have Bologna almost to yourselves. So grab your cameras and start wandering around the tranquil Italian city while snapping the best shots of your entire trip.

The ultimate highlight of spending Easter in Bologna, though, takes place on Easter Monday ( Lunedi dell’Angelo or Pasquetta in Italian). On this day, locals and tourists as well as nuns and monks from all over the world flock to St Luke’s Sanctuary to pay their respects to the saint or even have a lovely picnic on the grass around the church.

The Santuario di San Luca is built atop a hill overlooking the city. To get to the top, one needs to walk (or should I say climb) a beautiful 4-kilometre portico, the longest in the world. It is no piece of cake but the views from the top to Bologna and the surrounding countryside are spectacular. So, if you want to celebrate Easter in Bologna like locals, adding St Luke’s Sanctuary to your itinerary is an absolute must.

Book your room in Bologna here! Climbing your way up to St Luca isn’t your cup of tea? Buy your round-trip ticket from Bologna to St Luca here and enjoy a food tasting at the end of the tour .

2. Malaga, Spain

By Joanna of The World In My Pocket

In Spain, especially in Andalucia, Easter is celebrated with many festivities and processions that last for an entire week. The processions start in Malaga 7 days before Easter, with hundreds of Brotherhoods taking over the city’s streets, carrying religious statues on their shoulders. Each church in Malaga has its own processions which depart on a particular day during the Holy Week towards the main Cathedral in the city and then back. There are around 40 processions.

If you are travelling to Malaga on a budget, you should know that watching the Easter processions is one of the  free things to do in Malaga  during the Holy Week. Some processions are more spectacular than others, with people taking part in them wearing the traditional capirote – a tall cone covering their faces. They also wear black and purple belted robes. The women who follow in the procession wear black clothes and lace veils.

Whilst you can reserve a seat in the front row for about 60 euros for the entire week (you need to do it months in advance), for a free view of the procession head over to the Tribuna de los Pobres (The Poor People’s Tribune), which is located on Calle Carreteira and which has great views towards the processions. Do go early to catch a seat.

Processions usually start at around 2PM, with some ending in the early hours of the morning. The men are carrying large floats covered with flowers and candles, depicting different sculptures of Jesus and Virgin Mary but also giant thrones.

Some of the most spectacular processions are Los Gitanos (the gypsy community is joining in with traditional dances and songs), Las Penas (Virgin Mary’s cloak is made out of fresh flowers), La Paloma (white doves fly along the procession), La Esperanza (the heaviest float weights 5 tonnes), Las Servitas (an evening silent procession in which lights are turned off on the streets it passes by).

A fun fact you should know is that pretty often the local born Antonio Banderas joins the big events in Malaga. This year, he turned on the Christmas lights. So, by attending the Easter processions you might get a chance to see him.

Book your room in Malaga here! Make the most of Malaga’s sunny weather during Easter. Book a 3-hour bike tour here!

3. Berlin, Germany

By Sarah of Fernwehsarah

Spring and especially Easter is a great time to visit Berlin. While the summer months can get really crowded with tourists, Berlin is not too busy during Easter.

There are a lot of events in the city at any time but Easter brings the Easter Knights Festival in Spandau . In 2020, the event will run from the 11 th  of April to the 13 th  of April at the citadel. There’ll be a historic market with medieval music, lots of food stalls and dancers, jugglers and fire spitters. If you visit, you definitely have to try some traditional German flat sour bread and drink some German beer.

The festival costs 12€ entrance for adults (9€ if you come historically dressed!) and it includes the entrance into the citadel’s tower and the museum. There’s also a family ticket for 30€ that is valid for two adults and two children and it’s 100% worth the fun.

Since you are already in Berlin, make sure to check out other typical things to do in Berlin such as visiting Alexanderplatz, Brandenburg Gate and Gendarmenmarkt, doing a  Berlin bunker tour and dining in the TV Tower too. After all, your waiting times at these top sites will be much lower than in the summertime.

You may even be able to get a spot to visit the Reichstag’s Dome for free without having to apply weeks in advance. Oh and just in case you get hungry again – there’s a big spring market on Alexanderplatz during Easter with lots of traditional German food and drinks!

Book your room in Berlin here! S pringtime in Berlin is magical and the best time to enjoy a river cruise. Book your city tour by boat here!

4. Taxco, Mexico

By James of Travel Collecting

Taxco, a small hillside town in central Mexico, is one of the most interesting places in the world to experience Easter. The town, with its steep cobblestone streets, ornate churches and silversmith and silver markets, is worth a visit any time of the year. However, at Easter, it becomes truly unique. The week before Easter is the Semana Santa (Holy Week) and it is  celebrated in a very particular way in Taxco .

An old Catholic tradition is to pay penitence for your sins and this has taken hold in a serious way in Taxco.  The Holy Week starts simply enough on Palm Sunday with a procession of large crowds of people holding small figures made of palm fronds.

Each subsequent day, there are processions through the narrow streets in which statues of the main biblical characters are carried from churches in the surrounding villages through the streets. The processions are designed to represent enactments of scenes from the days leading up to the crucifixion and resurrection.

However, the most fascinating thing is the accompanying daily and nightly processions of penitents .  Hooded men, stripped naked to the waist and wearing baggy black pants, carry large bundles of thorny sticks on outstretched arms. Other hooded penitents whip themselves with thorns until their backs are large bleeding wounds.

Women, covered in lace veils, stagger bent over, with chained legs, holding candles. More men drag heavy chains and carry enormous crosses, stooping deeply under the weight. Boys wave smoking incense until the air is thick with smoke. The daily processions are gruesome displays of penitence that the locals participate in every year.  It is off-putting and fascinating at the same time. It is definitely a unique Easter experience!

Book your room in Taxco here!

5. Stellenbosch, South Africa

By Campbell & Alya of Stingy Nomads

Stellenbosch, a small town in the Winelands region of South Africa, is the perfect place to go during the Easter holidays. The area is famous for its great wines, fine restaurants, breathtaking scenery and several wildlife experiences. There are many things to do in Stellenbosch at Easter weekend. It’s just difficult to choose where to go and what to do.

Many wine estates arrange special Easter activities like wine and chocolate egg pairing, Easter markets, special menus, Easter egg hunts for children, etc. Easter weekend in Stellenbosch is filled with activities for both adults and their kids. Searching for paper Easter eggs that are hidden in the animal farm among cute bunnies running around in the grass is one of the children’s favourite activities. At the end of the hunt, the collected paper eggs can be swapped for edible chocolate marshmallow eggs.

For adults, there is a wine hunt at Ken Forrester Estate. The task is to find three hidden Easter bunnies during the tasting. The winner gets a free bottle of wine. Chocolate and wine pairing is quite a popular tasting option at many farms but for Easter, some places like Spier Wine Estate offer bubbly wine and chocolate egg pairing.

Local markets always prepare something special for the holiday. For instance, Route 44 weekend market offers egg hunts, egg decorating and a special Easter menu. Some places go even further and arrange special theme parties for Easter. For instance, Alice in Wonderland or Gretel & Hansel versions. Regardless of age, everybody will be able to find a great way to spend the Easter weekend in Stellenbosch.

Book your room in Stellenbosch here! Stellenbosch is an amazing wine region in South Africa. Learn all of its secrets during a unique hop-on hop-off wine tour!

6. Uzbekistan

By Ellis of Backpack Adventures

One great destination to visit during Easter is Uzbekistan. They do not celebrate Easter as we know it, but they have their own spring festival called Nowruz . This Zoroastrian tradition goes far back to the ancient Persian civilisation and is celebrated all over Central Asia. This festival is all about the new year and the beginning of spring. There are striking similarities with the Easter holidays suggesting that both had the same origins.

One tradition during Nowruz, for example, is that the family gathers around a table with several symbols including brightly coloured eggs. For visitors to Uzbekistan these private rituals at home are hidden from view. What you will see are the elaborate festivities on the streets, including national game competitions, folk music and dance performances. It’s a time when people are out and about to enjoy the warmer temperatures.

Easter is thus a joyful time to visit Uzbekistan . It also happens to be the best time to visit the country if it comes to the weather. The cold winter days are gone, but the summer heat hasn’t started yet, allowing you to explore the Silk Road cities in comfort.

The mosques and madrassas in cities like Samarkand, Khiva and Bukhara bring you back to the times when traders with their camel caravans passed through. Their legacy made Uzbekistan rich in history and culture. Nowadays friendly people are still welcoming to foreign travellers that want to explore the beauty of their country. 

7. Crete, Greece

By Gabi of The Tiny Book

It is a great idea to visit the Greek islands during Easter since it’s the most important celebration in the Orthodox calendar. If you go to an island as big as Crete, you will witness what a heartfelt celebration Easter is there and no matter where you stay in Crete , Easter is an experience you will never forget.

Preparations begin five weeks before Pascha (Easter in Greek) on Clean Monday (or Kathara Deftera ). This day marks the start of Lent. For 49 days many people avoid meat, fish (seafood is allowed), eggs and dairy. Megali Evdomada is the week that leads up to Easter. During this period, people attend daily church services while kids and moms dye eggs red (a colour that reminds of the blood of Jesus). In every home, baking is at its best.

The traditional Easter sweet of Crete is Lychnarakia , a delicious small round pie filled with myzithra , a local creamy goat cheese. Good Friday is an important mourning day which culminates at night with the Epitafios , Christ’s funeral procession along the streets.

On Easter Saturday, Cretan villages are alive with activity. Children go about gathering wood to prepare a bonfire to burn outside the church after the night service. Right before midnight, all lights in the church are turned off to mark the death of Jesus. Then, at the stroke of midnight, the priest announces that Jesus is risen ( Xristos Anesti ) and the Holy Flame is lit. All candles held by the congregation light one after the other as people share the flame. It’s a very moving moment.

As the bells of the church toll, the celebration begins. The bonfire burns while fireworks crack in every corner of the island. This also marks the end of fasting. Finally, on Easter Sunday, families and friends gather to share the Easter table. In Crete, it’s a joyful celebration in which everyone eats, drinks, sings and dances.

Book your room in Crete here! Spring is the ideal time to go hiking in Crete. Book your trek to the famous Samaria Gorge here!

8. Seville, Spain

By Chrysoula of Travel Passionate

If you’re seeking somewhere cultural and memorable for your next Easter break, why not choose a destination that really celebrates this festival in style, with street parades and ceremonies? Semana Santa , aka Holy Week, in Seville is one of the largest celebrations in the country with the whole town coming together in remembrance of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Taking place in the week leading up to Easter, Semana Santa features grand processions of effigies of Jesus, depicting the story of The Passion Of The Christ . These processions last around 12 hours, with sombre, devout locals carrying the floats through the streets to the sound of angst-ridden acapella songs.

Another striking feature of Santa Semana is the nazarenos , a group of robed participants who walk through the city repenting their sins. While their white robes are fairly non-descript, their pointed white hoods ( capirote ) make them look as though they are part of the KKK! Fear not though, there is no connection between the two groups.

Women also wear their own interesting headpieces during this festival but, instead of pointed hoods, they adopt exquisite black lace veils known as La Mantilla . Witnessing these festivities is a truly unforgettable experience and while the processions are quite sombre, they are still very moving.

Book your room in Seville here! No trip to Seville is complete without a journey into the enchanting world of flamenco . Buy your ticket for a flamenco show with a drink here!

9. Wroclaw, Poland

By Karolina of Lazy Travel Blog

With its vibrant traditions and beautiful architecture, Wroclaw is probably one of the best Easter holiday destinations. One of the best times to  visit Wroclaw  in Poland is during one of its most important occasions, Easter. It is here that Easter is taken so seriously that a glimpse at the festivities can be considered a must-visit attraction on top of its collection of hidden dwarves, bridges and gothic architecture.

The week before Easter, you will witness the creativity of the Polish people as they fill the city with palms in preparation for Palm Sunday, which is 7 days before Easter. In a country where it is too cold for palms to grow, it is quite fascinating to see how, with faith and ingenuity, people make artificial palm trees made of native trees like box, willow, yew and olive, which suddenly take over the city of Wroclaw.

If you arrive during this week, you can probably watch people make them or perhaps find out the winner of the annual artificial palm competition. On Holy Saturday, the day before Easter, you will find lines of people outside the church, waiting to have their baskets of food blessed in preparation for Easter Sunday’s first meal.

On Holy Sunday, aside from the well-wishing and blessings that occur around the table during this time, the meal is made even more special by the food. From the Polish Rye Soup and a beautifully decorated dessert pie called Mazurek , all forms of traditional dishes are passed around the table. As this is usually done in a family setting, the best way to experience this is by booking an Easter package at one of the hotels in Wroclaw.

The next day, Easter Monday, before leaving Wroclaw, feel like a child again by joining a tradition called Śmigus Dyngus , a day of public water fights. So, remember to pack that water pistol in preparation for an authentic Easter celebration in Wroclaw.

Book your room in Wroclaw here!

10. Cartagena, Colombia

By Adam of Cartagena Explorer

Colombia’s most popular destination, the city of Cartagena de Indias, is located on its Caribbean coast.  It was once a major trading port in the Spanish Empire and is perhaps most well-known for its colonial era walls and fortifications and charming architecture. Easter makes for a nice time to visit. The weather is warm all year round, so if it’s not quite beach weather in your neck of the woods, it will be in Cartagena. As a predominately Catholic country, the pretty colonial era churches also have masses and Easter celebrations.

However, one of the neatest Easter traditions in Cartagena is the traditional homemade sweets. Throughout the weeks leading up to Easter, you’ll find stands set up around town and in malls selling these traditional sweets. All of them are made from fruit typical to the coast. There are usually a number of tables set up right around the city’s iconic Clock Tower.

My personal favourite is the  jalea de tamarindo  which is like sweet and sour cream with tamarind seeds. You’ll also find sweets made with coconut, mango, pineapple, guava and even some from vegetables like Ñame , a root plant somewhat similar to sweet potato.

Trying some of these sweets in addition to the great seafood always on offer in Cartagena is the best reason to travel to Cartagena during Easter. Do note that the city tends to get crowded, so you’ll want to decide  where to stay in Cartagena  and book well in advance.

Book your room in Cartagena here! After enjoying the Easter celebrations in the city, it’s time for a cruise on a catamaran! Book your cruise to Rosario Islands here!

11. Krakow, Poland

By Veronika of Travel Geekery

Easter as a Christian tradition is best celebrated in countries where the majority of people are Christian. That makes Krakow and basically the whole of Poland an ideal Easter break destination. Visiting Krakow for Easter  will give you a fair share of Easter markets and church masses. The main square, Rynek Glowny , is the liveliest spot during Easter. However, it never feels crowded since it’s so large!

The best thing to do at Krakow Easter markets is just to stroll around and eat your heart out. For instance, try the Polish version of stuffed dumplings called  Pierogy . If you’re a meat eater, you’ll find plenty of sausages (called Kiełbasa ) to choose from. Flush it down with  Tyskie  beer, an original Polish brand. Other than food and drinks, the markets feature handicrafts, so you can buy cute handmade souvenirs to bring back home.

In 2020, the Easter markets are put up 2 weeks before Easter and will stay open until Easter Monday. Whether you’re religious or not, the atmosphere in churches during the Easter masses is wonderful and everybody is welcome to visit. Masses are usually held twice a day during the Easter holiday. You can find the exact schedule near each church’s entrance.

Book your room in Krakow here! Book a guided tour of the Wieliczka Salt mine here!

12. Paris, France

By Lena of Salut From Paris

When thinking about a good location to spend Easter, Paris should be high on everyone’s list. It’s the time when spring is holding France’s capital in a tight hug . All parks are in bloom and the terraces are full of colour. Life finally happens outside again. Easter –  Pâques  in French – is the peak season for everyone with a sweet tooth.

Famous Parisian chocolatiers like Pierre Hermé or Patrick Roger offer special Easter creations of their high-quality chocolate. Those are more like pieces of art than chocolate and even if you’re not keen on spending crazy dollars on sweets, they are worth checking out. Don’t be surprised though to find many in the shape of a bell. In France, it’s not the Easter Bunny that brings the chocolates, but the Easter Bells ( cloches )! 

The bells hide chocolates, even in many public parks. The biggest chocolate hunts take place in Parc André Citroen , Parc de Buttes-Chaumon t or the Jardin d’Acclimatation . They are very popular Easter events for children and a must-attend when visiting Paris for Easter. But Easter in Paris is not only an event for the little ones. It’s also the best time to attend a classical concert. The concerts hosted at the stunning Sainte Chapelle are legendary. But be quick as they sell out fast. 

Book your room in Paris here! Can’t get enough of chocolate? Book this walking tour with gourmet chocolate & patisserie tasting here!

13. Sicily, Italy

By Annabel of Smudged Postcard

There are many wonderful reasons to visit Sicily at Easter. The weather is delightful. Not too hot for sightseeing but warm enough to dine al fresco and enjoy time at the seaside. However, the most significant reason to visit Sicily at Easter is to witness one of the many fascinating festivals which take place across the island.

Some of the most well-known festivals take place in the island’s capital, Palermo. The most popular town in Sicily, Taormina, also has an Easter procession. However, visitors should also consider going off the beaten path to locations such as Trapani in the west and Enna in the centre of the island.

Although a long drive from both Palermo and Catania (the two main airports in Sicily), Enna is definitely worth the drive. During Settimana Santa , processions take place throughout the town culminating at the Cathedral. Locals in sombre outfits parade through the streets and shops are filled with seasonal delicacies.

Of course, Sicily at Easter is a delight even for visitors whose interest in religious festivals may be minimal. There are incredible Ancient Greek and Roman ruins to explore and the stunning clifftop town of Taormina is at its best in spring before it is filled with tourists later in the year. The best way to visit the many interesting parts of the island is to do a  Sicily road trip .

Book your room in Sicily here! Book a unique sunset walking tour in Taormina here!

14. Amsterdam & Keukenhof Garden, The Netherlands

By Darek of Darek And Gosia

Every year, Easter trips are becoming more and more popular. This is a great opportunity to relax and have a great time with your loved ones. Where is the best place to spend the Easter holidays this year? We believe it’s Amsterdam! The city is interesting and it is really worth visiting in early spring. There is a lot to choose from, so you certainly won’t be bored. This old and beautiful city where different cultures and nationalities mix seamlessly has become a unique place that is unlike any other in the world.

If you love flowers, no doubt the best time of year to visit Amsterdam will be Easter. It should be remembered that flowers in the Netherlands begin to bloom very early. The whole of April and sometimes even earlier, you can admire tulips and hyacinths of various colours and shades and enjoy their beautiful scent.

Make sure to book a trip to Keukenhof Gardens too. It’s totally worth it! Every year, a growing number of people decide to give up the traditional form of celebrating Easter, setting off on a journey that can provide a lot of amazing great new experiences. Are you one of them? If yes, then don’t think any longer. Book a trip to Amsterdam and spend the most colourful Easter ever!

Book your room in Amsterdam here! Book a 5-hour group tour of Keukenhof Gardens here!

15. Ephesus, Turkey

By Rai of A Rai Of Light

During the festivities of Easter, many of the country’s historical churches and shrines offer a special service. Referred to in Turkish as Paskalye , the date of this holiday was first deliberated in Turkey’s Iznik region at the First Council of Nicaea, where Christian Bishops assembled way back in 325 AD. The highlight of this period is celebrating Easter at the House of the Virgin Mary in the ancient city of Ephesus , with a history and culture going just as far back.

Many consider it an honour to celebrate the religious significance of this day and the resurrection of Jesus in the very home where his mother spent her final days. The House, a Catholic and Muslim shrine located on Mt. Koressos in Ephesus, holds special services throughout the Holy Week leading up to Easter Sunday. You can look forward to the Great Vigil of Easter service with the Lighting of the Pascal Fire and two services of the Mass of Resurrection .

Other historical churches with celebrations include the Church of St. Mary Draperis and the Church of St. Anthony of Padua in Istanbul, but no matter where in the country you go there is bound to be an Easter service of some sort.

Ephesus is a destination of great historical significance. Learn everything about its treasures during a 4-hour guided tour!

16. Zaragoza, Spain

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Zaragoza, the capital of Aragón, is a largely underrated destination in Spain, both during Semana Santa (Easter week) and at other times of the year. It offers a beautiful basilica, a  fantastic bar and restaurant scene and far fewer crowds than Seville and other more popular cities.

While in the past few years the local government has made efforts to attract tourists to the city’s Semana Santa celebrations, this has been mostly aimed at domestic tourists. If you venture here, you’re unlikely to see many other foreigners, making Semana Santa in Zaragoza a very authentic Spanish experience.

The oldest and most important procession here is the Procesión General del Santo Entierro or General Procession of the Holy Burial. It leaves from the Iglesia de Santa Isabel de Portugal on Good Friday and all 25 of the city’s brotherhoods participate. It’s the longest procession in all of Spain.

But if you can’t make it for Good Friday, don’t worry, about 50 processions are held throughout the week. Other major ones include the Procesión de las Palmas (Palm Procession) on Palm Sunday, the Procesión de las Lágrimas (Procession of Tears) on Holy Tuesday and the Procesión del Encuentro (Procession of the Meeting) on Holy Wednesday.

In the latter, one brotherhood carries a float with a statue of Jesus carrying the cross, while another carries a float with a statue of the Sorrowful Virgin Mary. The two brotherhoods cross paths at midnight in Plaza del Pilar , allowing the two statues to meet . Symbolically, this represents the moment when Jesus saw his mother on his way to Calvary.

The most distinctive feature of Zaragoza’s processions is the booming sound of the drums that accompany them. There are about 16,000 members of the brotherhoods and about 4,000 drums. That’s one for every fourth participant!

Book your room in Zaragoza here! Get to know Zaragoza through its tastes. Join the best wine and tapas tasting tour here!

17. Copenhagen, Denmark

By Derek and Mike of Everything Copenhagen

One of the best times to visit Copenhagen is for an Easter trip. The city slows down a bit for the actual holiday, but there’s still plenty to do as any Copenhagen spring guide will tell you. During Easter, you should head to Tivoli Gardens for family fun.

The beautiful amusement park in the shadow of Copenhagen’s City Hall is full of lush landscaping and all the traditional rides, games and excitement. At Easter, there are extra kids’ activities and events that celebrate the spring opening of the park. The best of these is an Easter egg hunt across the entire amusement park.

Adults should make sure they sample the annual Easter beer . It’s brewed by the Danish beer company, Tuborg and called paskebryg (Easter brew). You can find it at most pubs, restaurants and grocery stores. In fact, for Easter Sunday, you could have one over brunch because most Copenhagen restaurants remain open during the holiday. It’s easy to find a traditional Danish Easter meal and celebrate with locals over brunch.

While Denmark is a mostly secular country, there are many churches that you can visit for an Easter service. The largest denomination is Lutheran and there are some beautiful churches in Copenhagen to consider. For a fun twist, you can head to the Church of Our Saviour, also known as the spiral church. There you can climb the church’s gilded spire where they’ve built an exterior staircase around the spiral tower atop the church. On a clear day, you can see across the Sound to Sweden!

Book your room in Copenhagen here! Enjoy unlimited rides in Copenhagen’s world-famous Tivoli Gardens!

18. Sardinia, Italy

By Iris of Mind Of A Hitchhiker

If you’ve ever baked bread, you know it’s not so easy to shape the dough into something recognizable. Then when it comes out of the oven it is usually some shapeless blob. It still tastes great, though. Sardinia is an Italian island in the Mediterranean Sea where they’ve hacked the conundrum of making bread into remarkable shapes.

To show off their master baking skills, they often bake an egg along with intricate bread designs (Sardinian: coccói cun s’ou ). The meaning of the egg in the bread wreaths is the arrival of spring and the fertility that comes with it, which has Pagan origins. You probably guessed it. The bread represents Christ. For the same reasons, Sardinians will also bake a similar kind of bread called coccói de is sposus for a newlywed couple.

I was very impressed with the loaf in the picture. I found it at a market in Alghero in northwest Sardinia during the final days of Easter. Apparently, the designs even get much more elaborate than this. The pretty city of Alghero itself also gets dressed up for Holy Week ( Chida Santa ). Almost every day there are processions with Christ statues and reenactments, with joyous celebrations towards the end.

Lots of places and businesses will be closed during the holiest days, so make sure you’re not too dependent on shop owners and restaurants. Your hotelier or host will likely have good tips on when and where to go for the processions. Make sure to also try other Sardinian sustenance like fregula , seadas , malloreddus and the best regional wines while you’re on the island. During Easter, Sardinia can still be quite cold and wet, so pack for the forecast. You’ll be planning a return trip to the island during a different season in no time!

Book your room in Sardinia here! While in Sardinia, why not take a homemade pasta-making class? Book this unique experience here!

19. Rome, Italy

By Kieren of Got My Backpack

Rome is quite literally the Holy Grail when it comes to places to visit at Easter. Experience week-long celebrations from Palm Sunday, when Pilgrims flock to St Peter’s Square with huge palm leaves, right through to Easter Monday which sees families mark the occasion with an outdoor picnic.

The main event takes place on Easter Friday with a huge candlelit procession to the Colosseum (known as Via Crucis ) which has been a regular occurrence since the 18 th  century. The procession is led by the Pope himself along with a giant burning cross to guide the way. Whilst this event attracts pilgrims from all over the world, even for non-believers it’s still an incredible experience.

A traditional Easter dinner in Rome is Abbacchio a Scottadito . This is essentially crispy lamb ribs served with artichokes. You’ll notice that most restaurants will be serving it as a special across the week. Also look out for Colomba , a traditional Italian Easter cake which has been fermented for over 30 hours. Easter Monday is also a huge deal in Rome. With most of the shops still closed, locals head to the parks outside the city to enjoy a big picnic with their families.

The only downside is that Rome can be extremely busy during Easter, especially as the holidays of European schools fall during that period too. You should also watch out for certain attractions being closed on bank holidays, such as the Vatican Museums.

Book your room in Rome here! Live your real-life Roman Holiday. Book your fantastic Vespa Tour here!

20. Moscow, Russia

By Yulia of That’s What She Had

If you ever thought that getting a time machine to keep celebrating your favourite holidays is a cool idea, I’ve got good news for you. The only thing you need to do is buy a plane ticket to Russia. Easter in my homeland is celebrated a week or two later than in the rest of the world. This happens because the Russian Orthodox Church uses the Julian Calendar, while Roman Catholic and protestant churches use the Gregorian Calendar.

If you visit Moscow for Easter, you can witness a service at one of the beautiful Orthodox churches. It’s best to choose a smaller neighbourhood church than a popular one like the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour. Even though the latter can accommodate up to ten thousand people, getting in on a big holiday is almost impossible. Mind you, the service starts the evening before and goes on all night long. And, unlike in Catholic churches, there are no benches inside. One has to stand for hours.

Not to sound shallow, but my favourite part of Easter is all the food. First of all, there are brightly coloured eggs. Once everyone picks an egg, friends and family members hit each other’s eggs. If you manage to break another person’s egg but yours remains intact, you win. Although there are no prizes to win but pride.

Then there’s kulich , Easter bread covered in sugar icing. And, of course, paskha , a cottage cheese cake. While traditionally Easter is celebrated at home, many people nowadays choose to have a celebratory breakfast or brunch at a restaurant. Many Russian restaurants in Moscow have a special Easter menu on the day, with creative takes on kulich and paskha .

At this time, no trips to Russia can be planned. Hopefully, this madness will be over soon and we’ll all be able to visit Ukraine and Russia again. In peace.

21. Strasbourg, France

By Elisa of France Bucket List

Strasbourg in Eastern France is the capital of the historical region of Alsace and also the capital of the French Region of Grand Est . Its good connections to Paris or Frankfurt by train, interesting history and beautiful heritage make Strasbourg an excellent destination for a weekend getaway during Easter.

Explore the Grand Ile , Strasbourg’s historical centre, with the main tourist attractions such as the Gothic Cathedral or the picturesque quarter of La Petite France. This was the tanners’ neighbourhood. It is home to little water channels and it still keeps its traditional and colourful architecture.

You can also taste traditional cuisine. Alsatian cuisine is hearty, with strong influences from Germany and wide use of pork, potatoes and fresh cream. There are some popular, yummy dishes like the choucroute ( sauerkraut ) or the flammekueche that you just cannot miss.

Apart from the tourist attractions that can be seen all year round, people visiting Strasbourg during Easter will also find Easter-specific activities. Of course, there are the religious services in the Cathedral and other churches in the city but also the Easter Village with food, music, children’s entertainment and the traditional egg hunt.

Last but not least, if you can extend your trip to Strasbourg for one day or two, don’t hesitate to hit the road to visit a couple of fairytale villages in Alsace. You can also visit some of these villages on day tours from Strasbourg.

Book your room in Strasbourg here! Explore 4 villages on the Alsace Wine Route. Book the best day trip from Strasbourg here!

Ready to plan a trip to one of the best Easter holiday destinations?

We hope we managed to inspire you to plan an Easter getaway with all these amazing Easter vacation ideas. After all, Easter is the ideal time to plan a short (or longer) trip when you have a full-time job. By taking advantage of the Easter weekend, you can enjoy more time travelling while using up fewer paid vacation days.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your perfect Easter escape now!

Related Posts

What to do in mdina, malta’s gorgeous silent city, what to do in nerja, one of spain’s sunniest corners, 35 books set in italy to fuel your lust for il bel paese, write a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• PHOTOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO
• WRITING PORTFOLIO
• CZECH REPUBLIC
• TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY
• TRAVEL RESPONSIBLY
• SAVE TIME TO TRAVEL
• SAVE MONEY TO TRAVEL
• BOOK FLIGHTS ONLINE

Best Destinations for Easter in Europe in 2024

Are you looking for the perfect destination to spend Easter in Europe ? From traditional festivities and unique customs to breathtaking landscapes and awe-inspiring cities, there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or an exciting family holiday, spending Easter in Europe is a great way to experience some of its most iconic destinations. In this post, we will be exploring the top places to visit across Europe during Easter 2023 – from Barcelona’s stunning architecture to Limone Sul Garda’s stunning Views. So grab your camera and prepare yourself for an unforgettable trip!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my   full disclosure  for further information.

Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Europe for Easter :

🛫 Book cheap flights with WayAway

Get up to 10% cashback on flights with WayAway Plus ! Use the code EuropeanCitieswithKids2023 for 10% off a plus membership.

🛏️ Find the perfect place to stay with Booking.com , or discover your perfect holiday home 🏨 with VRBO

🚗 Find the best car rental deals with Discover Cars

🎫 Book amazing tours and tickets with Get Your Guide

Table of Contents

Easter in Spain: The Top Destinations to Visit

Spain is a great place to celebrate Easter, and there are plenty of popular destinations to visit. Here are the best places to spend easter in Spain !

Valencia, Spain

Easter in Valencia is a time of great celebration, and the city is renowned for its vibrant and colourful festivities.

Semana Santa Marinera, or the Maritime Holy Week, is a major event that takes place during this time. This unique celebration combines religious devotion with the maritime culture of Valencia. 

During the week leading to Easter Sunday, colourful processions take place in the Poblats Marítims district, including Grau, El Cabanyal and Canyamelar neighbourhoods near the harbour. So as a bonus, you can also take a stroll along  Valencia’s beaches  before or after the procession.

The processions are a feast for the senses and come complete with music bands and beautiful floral displays. The highlight for more tourists, however, are the traditional robes and pointy hats.

While in other cultures, these outfits have negative connotations, in Spain, they are the traditional costumes of the Brotherhoods and there’s nothing negative about them.

The main processions take place on Palm Sunday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Sunday. The most impressive ones where you can see the most pointy hats, however, is the one organised on Good Friday.

Recommended by Valencia Revealed

Mona de Pascua, Barcelona, Spain

When you think of  Easter in Spain , you might initially have the south of Spain in mind. However, visiting the Catalan capital Barcelona at Easter is also worthwhile. Because here, too, you will find a lot of fascinating traditions and fantastic sunny spring weather that invites you to long beach walks.

The most significant Easter tradition in Catalonia is the Mona de Pascua, a colourful Easter cake. This yummy cake is usually colourfully decorated with chocolate and other sweets.

While in earlier times, the cake was a simple dry cake with actual eggs in it, today, there are no limits to the bakers’ creativity. There are numerous motifs, flavours, and décor.

You can probably find everything from traditional Easter designs like bunnies or chicks to modern toys, comic book creatures, or famous cartoon characters.

Walk along the numerous bakeries, pastry shops, and supermarkets in Barcelona and look at the different creative cakes.

Of course, trying them is also a must. After you’ve chosen your favourite, make sure to enjoy it. Traditionally in Catalonia, the Mona de Pascua is served by the godfather. But of course, there is no law against gifting yourself with a delicious Spanish Easter cake.

Contributed by Vicki Franz, Vicki Viaja

Read More – The Best Barcelona Hotels for Families

Malaga, Spain

There are many  reasons to visit Malaga , and one of them is its traditional events like Easter. Semana Santa (Holy Week), often celebrated during the first week of April, lasts from the sixth Sunday of Lent, also known as Palm Sunday, until Easter Day or Resurrection Sunday.

During this period, the streets of the centre of Malaga are packed with locals and tourists who go to see the impressive religious processions which happen every day, morning and night.

Whether you are religious or not, it is an event worth experiencing: a lot of passion goes into this event – from the people who carry huge religious floats to those who follow the procession from the beginning to the end of the route.

Apart from the processions, food is an essential aspect of Easter too. Fish and vegetable dishes are the most popular options following religious traditions, and there are some delicious desserts and cakes typical of Easter too!

If you visit Malaga at Easter, you can’t leave the city without trying the delicious  torrijas , the Spanish version of French toast.

The best area to stay in Malaga at Easter is the centre, so you don’t miss this incredible event.  Room Mate Valeria  is a beautiful boutique hotel that is a fantastic choice for couples and families.”

Contributed by Cristina of My Little World of Travelling

Seville, Spain

One of the most unique places to celebrate Easter in Europe is Seville in southern Spain, where they have the biggest celebration in the country. Easter Week is filled with processions through the streets where the different brotherhoods carry large floats through the streets, orchestras play moody music, and participants dress in capes with pointy hats.

Not only are there processions during the day, but you should also stay up for at least one of the night processions. The mood is completely different, and they will use the large candles to drip candle wax onto little balls of silver foil that the kids have prepared, hoping for the biggest ball of candle wax.

In fact, they save it year after year to make it bigger and bigger.

During Holy Week,  one day in Seville  won’t cut it. You will not get the chance to see the main attractions as the processions will block all foot traffic through the city.

You might also find that several attractions are closed or have restricted opening hours. You should also book your hotel in good time in advance as they fill up quickly during Easter.  Hotel Zaida  is a great central hotel to stay at.

Contributed by Linn Haglund of Amused by Andalucia

Salamanca is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain .

The nickname of Salamanca is the Golden City, or La Dorada in Spanish. The city appears to shine in gold in the sunlight. 

Salamanca is a World Heritage Site of stunning Romanesque, Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, Baroque, and Ultra Baroque architecture. Salamanca’s Plaza Mayor is considered the most beautiful square in Spain, and Salamanca’s cathedrals (yes, there are two of them) are among the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe!

The Golden City of Salamanca is beautiful year-round, but it gets glorious during Semana Santa.

Salamanca is among the best places to spend  Easter in Spain . The city of Salamanca has one of the oldest and largest Holy Week parades in Spain.

The tradition of Semana Santa processions in Salamanca traces back to the 13th century. The parades count 10 000 people in total who participate as penitents.

They belong to 18 Catholic fraternities from Salamanca. The 18 fraternities march in 24 public processions in the streets of Salamanca each day from Palm Sunday Eve to Easter Sunday.

However, the most spectacular processions happen on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. The penitents dressed in distinctive robes and face-covering hoods carry large wooden floats with sculptures of Jesus and the Sorrowful Virgin Mary in the processions.

The sculptures belong to the most outstanding artwork of the Spanish artistic heritage. 

Besides seeing the Semana Santa processions, visitors love touring Salamanca’s cathedrals, Casa de las Conchas and the Art Nouveau Casa Lis museum. Visiting these iconic places is some of the best things to do in Salamanca, Spain. 

Consider staying at the 4-star Soho Boutique Salamanca in the heart of Salamanca. The hotel has a fabulous location in the middle of the Old Town of Salamanca and elegant and spacious rooms.

Recommended by Milijana, World Travel Connector 

Easter in Italy: The Top Destinations to Visit

Easter in Italy is a time to celebrate with friends and family. It’s a time of reflection and joy, where traditional religious ceremonies combine with festivals and other celebrations.

From the north to the south of Italy , there are many exciting places to see and experience during Easter celebrations. Here are some of the top destinations for an unforgettable Easter in Italy.

Florence, Italy

Of all the Italian cities, Florence has one of the most surprising traditions to celebrate Easter: the explosion of the Cart.

At the end of Sunday’s Easter Mass, Florence archbishop set on fire a dove-shaped rocket,  la Colombina , small dove in Italian.

The rocket is linked through a wire to the cart, known as  Brindellone , outside the Cathedral. The cart is full of fireworks that start to explode as soon as the dove hits them.

For more than 350 years this tradition set the beginning of the cropping season, if the cart explode entirely than it will be a productive summer.

In addition to this famous tradition, Florence also hosts an artisans and culinary market in the center that features the local products. For the occasion many of the incredible museums of Florence are open to celebrate the holidays.

Where to stay in Florence during Easter? The incredible  Hotel Brunelleschi  is the perfect destination for you! This elegant hotel is just a few meters away from Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, where the cart explodes. And from the rooftop you have a panoramic view of the city.

Are you planning to visit Florence soon? Then you should check out these  Tuscany itineraries , prepared for you by a local!

Contributed by Anita, Anita Beyond the Sea

Limone Sul Garda, Italy

Italy is really beautiful any time of year, however if you are visiting Europe over Easter be sure to head to  Limone Sul Garda , this historic lakeside town is pretty as a picture.

This hidden gem in Italy can be found perched on the hillside just above Lake Garda and makes the perfect place to relax and unwind on a laid-back and family-friendly vacation over Easter.

The name of this town gives you a hint of what it is famed for – its lemon production! 

It is also well connected with ferries, boat taxis, and boat tours to other towns, which makes it a perfect Lake Garda base.

Over Easter, the whole of Lake Garda celebrates with markets. You will find traditional products, local food, and produce. Entertainment for the children can be found by the many buskers and jugglers around the town squares.

The most notable event that happens over Easter at Lake Garda is the Festa di Pasquetta which takes place in Rocca in Lonato del Garda.

It is a fun day outdoors with the kids with so many activities for them to take part in like the botanic treasure hunt where they will pick up seeds, flowers and plants for the Stampa e colora con le piante activity. There is also a masked egg hunt which is a great hit with all kids!

At night time, the town does a very special parade in the name of Jesus who died on the cross for our sins. They line the streets of the town with candles. After the church service, there is a parade of people who follow the cross through these beautiful candlelit streets – it is incredibly touching and such a special event.

There are so many wonderful places that you can stay, but a top pick is  Hotel Capo Reamol ,  right on the lake shores. It is a stunning hotel set among olive trees and is an ideal spot for your Easter vacation in Europe and Italy.

Contributed by Ejmont, Wanderlust Storytellers

Top Places to Visit at Easter in Europe – Portugal

Easter in Lisbon is a memorable experience that combines religion, culture, and tradition. Many churches throughout Portugal will open their doors to visitors on Good Friday, providing an insight into the religious culture of the country.

During the holy week, several spectacular penitential processions take place after dark and are illuminated by candlelight.

This adds incredible charm and solemnity to the occasion and makes for an unforgettable experience. Visitors can see one of the most renowned in Obidos, about an hour from Lisbon, and wander around the city to explore its winding streets, taking in the atmosphere of a Portuguese Easter.

Good Friday is celebrated in Portugal with traditional codfish dishes. This is a great way to sample some of the local cuisine and get a taste of of some the best Portuguese gastronomy.

The weather in April is also just right to enjoy sightseeing or take part in the traditional festivities. It really is the perfect time to walk around Lisbon to see it at its best! There’s something for everyone to enjoy during this magical time.

Stay at the modern Memmo Alfama design hotel for top design with a fabulous view in the heart of Lisbon. From ancient churches to vibrant markets, Lisbon is a great city to visit during the Easter holiday.

Contributed by Nancy Michelle Cote of Ericeira Family Adventures

The beautiful coastal town of Lagos is a fantastic place to spend Easter by the beach. Lagos is located in the South of Portugal in the Algarve region and is known for spectacular beaches, rugged limestone cliffs, and clear water.

With more than 300 sunny days a year the weather is mild all year, but with spring coming at Easter time this is a nice to spend some time on the beach. Easter is a big event all over Portugal, especially in smaller towns and villages, where traditions are held by the local parishes.

Lagos has Easter celebrations in two churches: Santa Maria and São Sebastião. During Easter week, Lagos hosts a fair celebrating local customs and traditions as well along with food and craft.

Traditional regional folklore dancing to the sound of great music can also be seen at the fair. Dolphin watching from Lagos and activities such as kayak tours, surf lessons and boat tours to the surrounding caves are very popular over the easter period.

This is a great time for hiking and to enjoy exploring the surrounding cliffs and trails.

Recommended by Campbell, The Algarve Family

More of the Top Easter Holiday Destinations in Europe

Sibiu, romania.

Udatul Fetelor is one of the most interesting Easter traditions around Transylvania, in Romania. On the second day of Easter, men used to go to the houses of unmarried women and throw water over them, so that they can blossom, be pretty all year long, smell like spring flowers, as well as have good luck.

If a girl wasn’t “watered”, she would have a very bad year ahead. The water used to water the women had to be fresh from the fountain. It was believed that women are like flowers, so they had to be watered as well in order to blossom during the year.

In returned for being “watered”, the women reward the men with painted Easter eggs and  traditional Romanian desserts  such as cozonac or pasca.

These days, the tradition has changed, and the girls are not thrown water on anymore, but “watered” with perfume. It is a tradition that is still kept alive, but these days it doesn’t matter if the girls are married or unmarried anymore, everyone gets “watered”. It is custom to have guests on the second Easter day for this exact reason.

If you want to visit Sibiu for Easter, consider staying at  Imparatul Romanilor Hotel .

Contributed by Joanna, The World in My Pocket

Discover the best cities in Romania to visit here >>>

Prague, Czech Republic

Easter in Prague is magical, especially if you’re visiting Prague with kids . Spring temperatures invite you outdoors to take part in traditions like painting eggs, folk dancing, and a more and more less popular tradition, whipping—men and boys whip women and girls with willow sticks braided with ribbons for gifts, luck, and fertility. 

The entire Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí) where the famous astrological clock resides is transformed into a colorful Easter market, complete with festive decorations, food vendors, and wooden handicraft stalls.

The vendors sell all kids of beautiful crafts like painted eggs, embroidered textiles, wooden toys, decorative flowers, traditional Easter whips and more.

Don’t miss the astrological clock show every hour on the hour between 9am and 11pm when it chimes and the procession of the Twelve Apostles takes place. It’s a tourist favorite and great for kids because it’s very quick.

After the show, nibble on some traditional Czech food from the market.

Try smoked ham with potatoes, mulled wine or a traditional pilsner, and a delicious sweet treat called Trdelník. It’s a yeast dough pastry that is spiraled around a stick and cooked over an open fire then topped with cinnamon and sugar, similar tasting to a cinnamon roll. Try having just one of these hot-off-the-fire bites of heaven.

One could argue Easter is the absolute best time to visit Prague due to the overwhelming love for the holiday. Prague should definitely be on your list of Easter destinations!

Where to stay in Old Town: Art Deco Imperial Hotel 

Recommended by  Allison Baxley,  Renovating Life

Paris, France

The Easter holiday is a magical time to explore Paris with the kids.

From religious services in the city’s beautiful churches and Easter concerts, to chocolate bunnies and candy eggs filling pâtisseries shelves and egg hunts in spectacular venues, there are plenty of activities for families to enjoy over the 3-day weekend.

If you’re looking for an exciting way to spend your family vacation this spring, why not take a trip to Paris? With its stunning sights, delicious food, and unique experiences, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!

One of the best ways to celebrate Easter in Paris is to take your kids on an egg hunt. There are many fun and creative locations around town that host special Easter egg hunts, such beautiful Parisian neighborhoods and the most beautiful parks in the city.

To make it even more memorable, why not pack a picnic lunch of French delicacies and enjoy the start of spring weather in one of the city’s beautiful parks?

Or, if you’re looking for a relaxing activity, enjoy a cruise down the Seine River and marvel at some of the most famous landmarks in the world.

On Monday following Easter, many shops and restaurants are closed so plan ahead.

However, there are still plenty of things to do – so make sure to take advantage of all that Paris has to offer and create some special Easter memories with your family!

To continue enjoying the magic in your hotel room, check into Terrass” Hotel with gorgeous views of the Eiffel Tower.

Happy Easter, bonne fête de Pâques! 🙂

Recommended by Fiona, Travelling Thirties

Zakopane, Poland

Zakopane  is tucked into the heart of the Polish Tatra Mountains. It’s often referred to as the winter capital of Poland, but it’s a gorgeous place to visit no matter the time of the year.

You’ll see timber-built cottages in the shadows of jagged peaks and get to wander between traditional craft stores selling homemade jams and vodka.

Easter marks the beginning of the traditional hiking season in the Tatra National Park. It begins with a flurry as the crocuses come into full bloom between the grassy meadows of the beautiful Chochołowska Valley.

After hitting the trails, be sure to snuggle up in a traditional Polish highlander tavern, where the seasonal smoked sheep’s cheese of ocypek will be served with a dollop of cranberry sauce on the side.

For a hotel, there’s nowhere that can beat luxurious  Aries Hotel and Spa  – it’s even got outdoor hot tubs where you can bathe while watching the light fade on the mountains.

Recommended by Joseph, Krakow Buzz

Easter in Dublin

Dublin is a fabulous city to visit during the Easter holidays. The weather is slowly starting to improve, huge events like Malahide Castle’s Easter hunt are being held, and there’s more chocolate on the shelves because of all the Easter Eggs.

Once the first of April approaches, that’s when a lot of the Easter events kick off in Dublin.

Newbridge Farm and Malahide Castle host their egg hunts from the 9th – 24th of April. Airfield Estate hosts an Easter extravaganza on Easter Sunday. The Irish EPIC Museum sets up an Easter trail in their complex for children to enjoy. And the list goes on.

Ireland has always been traditionally a predominantly Catholic country, so naturally, most practicing Catholics would go to Mass on Easter Sunday and other important dates around throughout the celebration.

A great hotel to stay in when you visit Dublin is the Jurys Inn. Situated on Parnell Street, and is popular among families who travel to the capital.

There’s no better way to see the real side of Dublin than by taking a  walking tour . Bring the kids along to learn about the city’s history and how it has transformed into one of the most visited cities in Europe.

Recommended by Where in Dublin

Plan Your Easter in Europe

Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Europe for Easter.

🛏️ Find the perfect place to stay with Booking.com ,

…or discover your perfect holiday home 🏨 with VRBO

Return to Homepage >>>

Sylvie Simpson

Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.

• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ 55 Inspirational Cruise Quotes
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ Finland’s Nuuksio National Park with Kids
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The 9 Best Switzerland Cities to Visit in 2024 [The Family Edition]
• Sylvie Simpson https://europeancitieswithkids.com/author/sylvie-simpson/ The BEST Water Parks in Poland to Visit with Kids (2024)

Lifestyle | Travel

10 best travel destinations in Europe for the Easter holidays

The Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Spring is the season of cherry blossom, crisp mornings, balmy yet breezy afternoons and crowd-free locations in Europe.

Looking to escape it all this Easter? Here’s our guide to the hottest spots.

As ever, be sure to check entry requirements for each destination before you even think of booking that dream vacay. The good news is the UK government look set to scrap all remaining restrictions for travellers including passenger locator forms and testing for the unvaccinated.

Crete is well-known for its wildflower season which peaks in April, when colourful wild orchids and poppies cover the island’s many hills. Take advantage of the sunny days – temperatures hover around the 17°C- 20°C degree mark this time of year – and enjoy one of Crete’s many hiking or cycling trails. We particularly recommend heading up to the Elafonisi viewpoint which will reward you with insane views of the unique pink-sand beach and crystal clear waters below.

The restored Venetian mansion Casa Delfino (from £120/a night for a double) is just the ticket, with an indulgent spa and stunning rooftop garden that’s perfect for sundowners. It’s just a seven-minute walk to the Vential Harbour in Chania from the hotel’s pebbled mosaic courtyard.

Paris is beautiful any time of year, but particularly pretty in April during the cherry blossom season. Head to Parc de Sceaux on the edge of the city, around an hour’s train journey from the centre, to admire its sakura trees which are covered in fluffy pink blossom in the spring – it’s the perfect picnic spot. April is also ideal for making the most of the blue skies and perusing the city’s many outdoor markets. Marché Bastille on Boulevard Richard Lenoir is one of the city’s largest.

Passy Eiffel ( £171/a night for a double room) is a charming and chic hotel surrounded by nouveau townhouses in upscale Passy, near the Eiffel Tower and Trocadero. Also just a short stroll away are the Maison de Balzac and Musée Marmottan museums.

Lanzarote is the warmest Canary Island, with average temperatures around 23°C degrees this time of year. The Timanfaya National Park is a must-visit to marvel at the island’s imposing volcanic landscape. Known as the Hawaii of Europe, surfers flock to Famara in the north, which has a glorious backdrop of white-sand contrasted with black-cliffs.

La Casa de los Naranjos (from £134/a night for two) is a 200-year-old manor-style property in Haria, a greener and quieter part of the island, that offers charming rooms with a relaxed vibe.

Sunny Lisbon boasts temperatures between around 15°C and 20°C degrees in the spring. It’s the perfect weather for climbing the city’s steep cobbled streets, hunting for bargains in its many flea markets and wandering the tranquil gardens of Monserrate Palace or secret passages of the Quinta da Regaleira in Sintra.

Solar de Castelo (from £181/a night) is the only hotel in the grounds of St George’s Castle. The stone walls and roaming peacocks will transport you to another time and place – after a trek up the hills of Alfama to get there.

Why Whistler could actually be better in the summer

Tom Hall's easy guide to European train travel

‘Is flying ever going to be sustainable?’ An aviation expert ponders the paradox

Make your next trip to the West End a celebration of women in culture

Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s most popular destinations, and April is a great time to visit the historic city as temperatures are pleasant, but you’ll avoid the hordes and also enjoy the perks of pre-summer prices, including free tickets to the regal Sponza Palace. For a day trip, you can’t beat hitting the crystal-clear waters for some island-hopping. Regular Elaphati Island tours depart from Dubrovnik and include a stop at Kolocep’s Blue Cave and the sandy Sunj beach.

Heritage Villa Nobile (from £162/a night) is a six-room boutique 18 th century villa right by the old town that is shaded by Japanese Sago palm trees by the Dalmatian coast and overlooks the city walls and sea.

San Sebastián

Known for its incredible foodie scene, San Sebastián is famed for its pinxto bars (their own style of tapas), food markets and Michelin-starred restaurants, making it Europe’s ultimate gastronomical vacay. Spring is the season of Basque apple cider, so be sure to visit a sidreria, or cider house, to sample the local produce and enjoy a traditional Basque meal.

Hotel Villa Sorra (from £97/a night) has a quirky British feel to it, with vast gardens that will make you feel like you’re in the countryside when in fact you’re in the heart of the city.

Spring is a wonderful time of year to visit Sicily, as you’ll avoid the summer holiday crowds and enjoy good weather and empty beaches. The island, the largest in the Mediterranean Sea, is home to countless UNESCO World Heritage sites. Marvel at the ruins of Taormina, take in the sheer expanse of Mount Etna and of course take a tour of the many wineries.

Set in gorgeous Sicilian countryside, La Foresteria Planeta Estate (from £150/a night) is a stunning wine resort nestled among vineyards and olive groves in Menfi, which boasts its own infinity pool.

Around half an hour from Amsterdam, Lisse is a town in The Netherlands that is known for its month-long tulip festival in April. Visit the blooming Keukenhof Gardens, which are only open in the spring, and admire the colourful flower fields. If you can, time your trip for the world-famous flower parade which kicks off on April 23.

Eco-certified Van der Valk hotel, which boasts its own sauna and hotel, is only a 10-minute drive from Keukenhof – or a little longer if you rent a bike through the hotel.

Spring is a great time to visit Dublin, as better weather arrives and the crowds are yet to descend on the city – just don’t forget your umbrella. Rainy days are the perfect excuse for partaking in Dublin’s legendary literary pub crawl, while if you’re lucky enough to enjoy some sunshine, take a scenic hike up to the Cliffs of Moher.

For a city-centre spot that’s within easy reach of good watering holes, Barry’s Hotel (£118/a night) is only a short walk from O’Connell Street and the notorious Temple Bar.

Few ski resorts are as picturesque (and snowsure) as the Swiss town of Zermatt, which is widely considered one of the best in the world and open 365 days a year. Boasting Europe’s highest ski lifts, you can get your powder and après fill while doing some stellar people watching, A-listers Nicole Kidman and Angelina Jolie are known to frequent the resort.

Four-star Hotel Chesa Valese is a Valais-style alpine retreat, with cosy rooms and excellent food prepared by chef Alain Lerjen.

• Responsible Travel
• Competitions
• South Africa
• City Breaks
• Staycations
• Summer Mountains
• Northern Ireland
• Lake District

12 best places in Europe for spring sun

Families of sun-seekers looking for an Easter break don’t have to endure a long-haul flight. There are plenty of places in Europe that are gearing up to be lovely and warm in the spring. Plus, in March and April the landscape is still green and flowers are beginning to open in the warmth – making Easter the ideal time for a sun holiday in Europe with the kids.

12/12  Mallorca, Balearics

Mallorca in the spring is an entirely different island from the one you’ll see in summer. There’s still a high chance of sun, as March temperatures are upwards of 20˚ in the south, and the transparent greeny blue of the Mediterranean is pretty much a constant all round the coast. But spring is the season for exploring the countryside, finding villages tucked off the tourist trail and finally understanding why the likes of Chopin and Miró loved this seductive Balearic best of all.

Palma’s urban beaches are quieter at this time of year and the city’s easier to enjoy. Down on the south coast, holiday-ready seaside towns still feel fresh and enthusiastic in the lead up to June. And even resorts like Magaluf are fun rather than frantic in the spring.

Cala d’Or in the south east is reliably good fun for families early in the season. But if you want authentic charm and a quick route from coast to country, think about Puerto de Antraitx to the west.

March to May temperatures in Mallorca: 20 – 25˚

Sunshine between March and May: 8 to 10 hours

Flying time from UK : 2 hours and 15 minutes, direct

Book your perfect Mallorca family holiday here

11/12  Tenerife, Canary Islands

The south west of Tenerife is always a good bet for winter warmth. Come March, temperatures are upwards of 20˚ with eight hours of sunshine. It only gets better and better in the lead up to May and summer holiday prices don’t really hit until June.

Most of the island’s bigger attractions are year-round now and spring is easily the best season for trekking in Mount Teide National Park or the Masca Valley. It’s also a good time to discover towns and villages off the beaten track and have beaches almost all to yourself. And, if you need to be reminded that there’s life beyond the tourists here, spending a few hours in colourful and cultured Santa Cruz or historic La Orotava should do the trick.

March to May temperatures in south west Tenerife: 20 – 25˚

Flying time from UK : 4 hours and 30 minutes, direct

Book your perfect Tenerife family holiday here

10/12  Seville, Andalusia

Early spring is by far the best time to visit Seville. Orange blossom season starts in the last days of February and by March the city’s drenched with the smell of citrus. Temperatures of 22˚ are warm enough for shorts and manageable for little ones, compared to highs of 40˚ that this part of Andalusia bakes in during July and August.

Despite the scorching summer heat, Seville is busy all year round, but you can grab a breather by visiting the Alcazar, Palacio de la Condesa de Lebrija, Torre del Oro and Plaza de España. Spend some crowd-free hours in the exceptional Museo de Bellas Artes and have a queue-free day at Aquapolis waterpark – it’s easily warm enough in the spring.

Unless you’re desperate to be swept up in one of Spain’s biggest and most emotional Santa Semana (Easter Holy Week) celebrations, avoid the Easter weekend in Seville. The Seville Fair usually begins two weeks after the Semana Santa and it’s great fun, but crazy busy, so probably best avoided if you’re after a quiet family holiday.

March to May temperatures in Seville: 22 – 25˚

Flying time from UK : 2 hours and 40 minutes, direct

Find your perfect Seville family holiday here

9/12 Southern Cyprus

The south of Cyprus is warm enough to add beaches into a spring holiday. Average temperatures range from 22˚ in March to highs of 27˚ in May. This means it’s a lovely time to visit the coast and even better for exploring the countryside, visiting mountain towns and villages and doing a bit of walking or cycling. Cyprus is too hot in July and August to stray far from the Med.

The ancient city of Paphos in the south west was the European Cultural Capital in 2017 and is worth seeing in advance of the summer crowds. Spring is also ideal for lively Larnaka, whether you want water sports or cultural icons like the Agios Lazarus church. It’s also the perfect time to visit Ayia Napa for waterparks and theme parks before hordes of 20-somethings turn up in June.

March to May temperatures in southern Cyprus: 22 – 27˚

Flying time from UK : 4 hours and 45 minutes, direct

Book your perfect Southern Cyprus family holiday here

8/12  Malaga, Costa del Sol

If Malaga instantly makes you think of crowded sands and new-build apartments, you might want to look again at the undisputed capital of the Costa del Sol. Not only does the city celebrate its most famous son with one of finest Picasso museums in the world, it’s home to the only Pompidou Centre outside France, CAC Malaga and the Museo Carmen Thyssen (younger sister to Madrid’s Thyssen-Bornemisza).

Give Malaga a chance in spring and it’s a lot easier to appreciate why the beaches have been holiday icons for over 50 years. Art and sunbathing aside, this is also the city to find outstanding Andalusian cooking in some of the region’s finest restaurants. They’re short on picture-menus, but even the starriest and most award-rich are relaxed, family-friendly and wonderful with kids.

March to May temperatures in Malaga: 20 – 25˚

Book your perfect Malaga family holiday here

7/12 Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Temperatures in Gran Canaria are often higher than Tenerife: comfortably reaching 22˚ in early March and climbing to above 25˚ in late May. One third of the island is a UNESCO biosphere and it has over 60km of beaches scattered round a dramatic coastline of soaring cliffs, sea stacks and vast dunescapes. So if you want warm and interesting this spring, the ‘other’ Canary is definitely worth a look.

The south coast is best for sun and family holidays in the next few months. It also happens to be where you’ll find the astonishing Dunas de Maspalomas, Playa des Ingles and a string of Mediterranean seaside towns to win you over with everything from early season water sports to dolphin cruises.

Las Palmas is an easy hour’s drive from lively southern resorts like Puerto Rico, Playa Taurito and Puerto de Mogán.   Spring weather couldn’t be better for walking, cycling and exploring in the impressive Pilancones and Tamadaba reserves, or climbing the Pico de las Nieves’ foothills.

March to May temperatures in Gran Canaria: 22 – 25˚

Flying time from UK : 4 hours, direct

Book your perfect Gran Canaria family holiday here

If you don’t like the idea of betting everything on a beach holiday this spring, think multi-faceted Malta. The bold coastline is big enough to take advantage of every drop of heat and, with temperatures of 20˚ and rising in March, the odds of sun are good. And if it’s not seaside weather all the time, there’s always Valletta to keep you entertained with myths, legends and masses of historic nooks and crannies, ancient districts and deep drama.

Island hopping to Gozo and Comino makes for fun days out. Or, if you’ve a moment to spare, you might want to go in search of caves, grottos, lagoons, medieval towns, mighty cliffs and even mythical blue holes – you won’t have to look too hard for them.

March to May temperatures in Malta: 20 – 25˚

Flying time from UK : 3 hours, direct

Book your perfect Malta family holiday here

5/12  Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Only 125km off the west coast of Africa, Lanzarote is the first Canary to warm up for spring and by mid-March temperatures are climbing from 22˚ and eight, unbroken hours of sunshine aren’t unusual.

The south east of the island is windiest: a relief in high summer but not what you want for a spring break. Instead, head west to pretty Playa Blanca on the Papagaya Coast. The beaches here are lovely and the resort manages to hold on to its small town charm and still come good on excellent hotels, restaurants and shops.

Spring is the time to brave the otherworldly volcanic landscape of Timinfaya National Park, less than 15 minutes drive from Playa Blanca. It’s also a good season for getting to know the island capital, Arrecife, for cycling on Lanzarote’s very bike-friendly roads and for off-season surf school rates on the north west coast. Don’t miss your chance to explore ancient Teguise and take the ferry and a picnic to the little island of Graciosa for the day.

March to May temperatures in Lanzarote: 22 – 27˚

Sunshine between March and May: eight to ten hours

Flying time from UK : four hours, direct

Book your perfect Lanzarote family holiday here

4/12  Western Algarve

Western Algarve has the Iberian Peninsula’s best weather, basically better than anywhere else in Portugal, Spain and Andorra. Spring is no exception and resorts along the coast between Portimão and Lagos almost guarantee sun and blue skies with temperatures upwards of 22˚ from March onwards.

This dramatic stretch of the Algarve coastline is the place for sea stacks, rainbow coloured cliffs and beaches like Praia dos Três Irmãos and Praia da Rocha. Portimão and historic Lagos are lively without being overcrowded and sea views are the only distractions on local golf courses. Surfing is good in spring too and lessons are more affordable and easier to book. And if you want to really stretch your legs, the spectacular Alentejano e Costa Vicentina coastal reserve’s less than an hour’s drive west of Lagos.

March to May temperatures in Western Algarve: 22 – 27˚

Flying time from UK : 2 hours and 50 minutes, direct

Book your perfect Algarve family holiday here

3/12  Ibiza, Balearics

Spring is family time in Ibiza, when it’s too early for party people but sunny and warm on the southern beaches. It’s also the best season to get to know Ibiza Town and appreciate why it’s one of the most admired small cities in Spain. And March, April and May are great for sailing round the coast on local ferries, exploring the spring-flowered countryside and discovering hidden coves and tucked away villages that are too hot to seek out in summer.

Give San Antonio and Playa d’en Bossa a miss in spring and go for Santa Eulalia on the sheltered south east coast. The town is lively and interesting, the local craft market buzzes with bohemian shoppers and the beaches are soft white sand with gently shelfing waters and a healthy sprinkling of cute cafés and cheerful restaurants.

March to May temperatures in Ibiza: 20 – 25˚

Book your perfect Ibiza family holiday here

2/12 Sicily, Southern Italy

If spring isn’t spring without some serious celebrating in the mix, look to Sicily for almost back-to-back festivals. Holy Week is marked with processions and feasts in every town and village, Easter weekend is the time for spring lamb and rich Cassata all over the island and Noto is the place to visit for one of Italy’s most spectacular Infiorata in May.

Spring weather is warm and sunny enough to enjoy any number of beaches from awe-inspiring Scala dei Turchi to the long, golden sands of Sampieri. Temperatures of 22˚ are just about perfect for in-depth exploration round cities like Palermo and Catania. And if you want some serious heat, there isn’t a better time of year to introduce older kids to the rumbling might of magnificent Mount Etna.

March to May temperatures in Sicily: 20 – 25˚

Book your perfect Sicilian family holiday here with Family Traveller Holidays

1/12  Nice, Côte d’Azur

Wait until summer to visit Nice and you might not get the best impression of this warm, friendly Côte d’Azur legend. Once the glamorous, second-home owning celebs descend in July, the city changes entirely. It’s too hot and stuffy, everything is overpriced and good luck finding even a hint of local atmosphere.

Spring is another story. The weather is warm enough to dip a toe or two in the Med. Vence and Grasse are easy drives without nose-to-tail traffic and the old town of Nice will steal your heart. Cannes is a lovely cycle along the coast and lunch in Vieux Nice doesn’t demand a second mortgage. Plus you can even wander the wild beauty of Mont Boron without running into elderly rock stars.

March to May temperatures in Nice: 20 – 24˚

Flying time from UK : 2 hours, direct

Book your perfect Nice family holiday

Know when you’d like a holiday, but not sure where to go? Our ultimate annual holiday planner will show you where’s hot in each month. Hurrah!

Related Articles

Is this luxury beach resort the most family-friendly in rhodes yet, win a sunny family holiday in cyprus for you and your kids, isère: this easy access, sunny summer mountains destination ticks all the boxes, aosta valley, the small yet mighty adventure playground in the italian alps, innsbruck brings mountain and urban adventures to family summer holidays in austria, sunny, sporty and beachy: these could be this summer's best family resorts, save up to 60% on a winter getaway with tripbeat, discover qatar airways amazing doha stopover deals for 2022, love to travel with your family.

Get inspiration, tips And holiday competitions straight to your inbox!

Hello traveller!

Inspire Your Trip

Best Places to Visit in Europe for Easter

Easter is a great chance to discover the world with someone you love. Every country has a certain way that it celebrates this religious holiday and what better way to explore new aspects of Easter than by immersing yourself right in the middle of it.

Each one of the destinations featured on our list is perfect to book for the Easter holiday duration and they all have something unique and fabulous to offer.

These are some of the top places to consider going this Easter.

1. Easter in Tuscany, Italy

Exploring Tuscany during Easter opens up a treasure trove of things to do and see. Every part of the region – as with the rest of Italy and the Catholic part of the Mediterranean, celebrate the week with both religious reflection and colourful spectacles that liven up the streets.

The capital of Tuscany, Florence leads the way in marking Easter, and if you find yourself in this romantic city on Easter Sunday, then check out the medieval tradition known as Scoppio del Carro (or Explosion of the Cart in English).

A gigantic and elaborately decorated cart is drawn through the old streets by four oxen and once it reaches the square in front of the Duomo, the fireworks hidden inside it are set off accompanied by the sound of fanfares and drums, creating a wonderfully cacophonic scene.

Other events that should be checked out in Tuscany during Easter include the Easter Passion Play on Good Friday in the small town of Grassina and the many processions across the region where people dress up in medieval costumes and walk through the streets with torches and religious icons.

View more recommendations for celebrating Easter in Italy .

2. Easter in Algarve, Portugal

Like many other Catholic countries, Portugal celebrates Easter with a long line of processions, which take place in cities, towns and villages alike.

In Southern Portugal, along the Algarve Coast , there are a number of processions to choose between, and which will let you experience an authentic and colourful glimpse of the region behind the beaches.

The absolute highlight of Easter on the Algarve Coast is the procession of flower torches known as the Festa das Tochas Floridas, which takes place in the charming town of Sao Bras de Alportel, just east of Vilamoura.

The normally quiet streets are lined with flowers and a procession passes through the town carrying large torch-like poles adorned with flowers to mark the Resurrection of Christ. The file of people moves around the town, chanting that “Christ has risen” to which the onlookers reply “Alleluia”.

In the evening the procession turns into a celebration of music and poetry.

3. Easter in Carcassonne and Aude, France

Apart from experiencing Easter in the fantastic medieval setting of Carcassonne’s fortifications, the surrounding Aude region offers plenty of exhibitions and festivals for both young and old.

During the Easter weekend, booklovers should head to the Fair of Antiquarian Books, which takes place for the 23rd time in the charming town of Montolieu, just north of Carcassonne. Younger bibliophiles, however, should instead head to the coastal town of Gruissan for the Meetings Around Comics expo, where kids can attend creative workshops, while people of all ages can engage with comic books and illustrations on display at various stalls.

Other events in the Aude area that take place during Easter include the colourful carnival in Le Barcares on the 15th of April as well as the monthly wine-appreciation Saporta Festival at the Mas de Saporta vineyard in Lattes.

4. Easter in Crete, Greece

Easter, according to the Greek Orthodox Church is usually celebrated after the Protestant and Catholic Easter. Every now and then Easter falls on the same day for all these branches of Christianity and 2017 is one of these occasions.

The Holy Week, or Megali Evdomada, starts on Monday 10 April and if you’re staying on Crete throughout this week you can expect to see quite a lot of local traditions, such as the red-painted eggs (that symbolise the blood of Christ) to the procession and the ringing of the bells to commemorate the dead on Good Friday.

There is also the burning of an effigy of Judas and the lighting of the Holy Flame after the midnight mass on Easter Saturday. Please note that during the week, some shops and tavernas might close early, just as a lot of restaurants only serve seafood and vegetarian dishes leading up to Easter Sunday.

5. Easter in Barcelona, Spain

The Easter week in Spain is known as the Semana Santa (or Holy Week), and every village, town and city across the country take great pride in celebrating this religious holiday. The Catalonian capital, Barcelona is no exception.

Watch the grand procession that kicks off Easter on Palm Sunday, where crowds gather around the cathedral holding palm branches. On Good Friday, another host of processions takes place throughout the day and ends at around 11pm. Each church across the city will put on their own parade, which means that you’re bound to find a procession regardless of where you are.

Experience the colourful and sonorous gathering of locals and then make sure you gorge on lots of local chocolate that is sold at every corner of this wonderful city. If you’re not really into religious celebrations, then view our guide to Barcelona’s top destinations, you could head to Park Guell and enjoy the blossoming trees and the warm weather.

6. Easter in Zadar, Croatia

All along the Dalmatian Coast, you’ll find plenty of beautiful islands in Croatia and lots of things to experience, see and taste during Easter. The Croatian way of celebrating this week is similar to many other Mediterranean countries, with processions on Good Friday and street fairs appearing in numerous towns throughout the country.

Split is one of the top tourist destinations in Croatia and during Easter you can catch the annual boat show. Another popular city, Dubrovnik invites you to experience ancient artisan skills of various crafts at the Easter Fair. In Croatia there are lots of little traditions that locals observe during the week. Due to palms being rather rare in the country, people take olive twigs to church to be blessed on Palm Sunday, while Easter Sunday sees people bringing whole baskets of food to church to be blessed, before embarking on an Easter feast with the family.

If you are staying in Croatia during this period you should sample the holiday treat known as Sirnica, which is a sweet bread that you dip in wine. Children can spend their time painting eggs before partaking in the local Tuca –or egg fight, where people hit their egg against another and the winner is the one with an intact specimen at the end.

7. Easter in Jersey, UK

During the month of April the annual Channel Islands Heritage Festival takes place. This year the theme is Heroes, Myths and Legends, which celebrates the multifaceted history of these islands just off the French coast.

A self-guided tour can be booked for people wishing to explore this at their own leisure, while numerous different stories and themes can be discovered through a plethora of tours that have been created specifically for the festival. These include war tours and a full-day guided tour that focuses on the fairies that are said to inhabit the island.

On the 9th of April you can also explore the iconic Elizabeth Castle for free, courtesy of Jersey Heritage. This 16th century fortress is located just off the coast from St Helier and is an interesting place to wander around –especially when the Easter sun is out.

8. Sham El-Nessim, Egypt

Egypt may not be the first place that springs to mind when looking for Easter activities, and this country isn’t even in Europe! But if you are looking for an alternative destination to celebrate Easter, Egypt really needs to be considered especially as there are regular and quick flights from several European airports.

Egypt has a tradition, which goes back to its ancient past and today is celebrated by most people, regardless of religion. Known as Sham El-Nessim, this national holiday takes place on Easter Monday and can be dated back to 2700 BC. A festival to signal the arrival of spring, the meaning of it changed over time according to which religion was the dominant one in the country.

Today the name loosely translates as “taking in the breeze” and most Egyptians use the day to either go on a picnic to enjoy the usually clement weather, or head to the banks of the Nile and the Red Sea for a dip in the water. The resorts along these coasts also have activities for children that involve Easter, including egg-painting and hunts.

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)

Recommended Articles

6 Best Surf Camps in Portugal

20 Best Gap Year Destinations

Top 5 UNESCO Heritage Sites in Portugal

Privacy Policy

15.91 ℃ London

Tuesday, 7 May 2024

Follow us on social media

Earth's Attractions – travel guides by locals, travel itineraries, travel tips, and more

Insider travel guides, travel tips, and travel itineraries – Amazing places to see in the world!

• Travel tips

Best Easter holiday destinations in Europe: where to celebrate Easter

Disclaimer: this post contains affiliate links, which means i may earn a small commission (at no extra cost for you). read our terms and conditions for more details..

Easter is popular in Europe and many countries and cities have special Easter markets or events to mark it. Other areas have different Easter traditions that will make your Easter holiday memorable.

Here are the best Easter holiday destinations in Europe. As you’ll easily notice, some are popular places to celebrate Easter in Europe, while others may become surprising destinations for your Easter weekend.

When is Easter celebrated in Europe

There are 2 times when easter is celebrated in europe..

Yes, 2 Easters – if you’d want.

That’s because we have the Catholic Easter and the Orthodox Easter.

Sometimes the Catholic Easter and Orthodox one are in the same day, while in other occasions – as in 2018 and 2019 – there are only one week apart.

There were years though when there was even a month in between. It has to do with the different method used to set the Easter date – Gauss formula – and different church calendar: the Orthodox Church uses the Julian Calendar, while the others use the Gregorian calendar.

In the end, what is important to know, is that when deciding where to spend Easter in Europe you should first research the specific date for the country you plan on visiting on your Easter trip.

For instance, as Romania is an Orthodox country, we celebrate it on a different date than Italy – a Catholic country.

You can even take an Easter road trip and experience different religions and Easter traditions if you plan ahead.

Easter 2022 dates: Catholic – April 17th Orthodox – April 24th

How is Easter celebrated in Europe

Easter is a special celebration in Europe. If you are wondering how is Easter celebrated in Europe, I have to tell you that it varies, from country to country.

As you can imagine, Italy has huge events; Spain has Semana Santa; other countries have special processions, the tradition of chasing eggs in gardens, Easter markets, and so on and so forth.

If you are looking for great Easter travel destinations in Europe, use the recommendations below when planning your Easter holiday. Whether it’s an Easter weekend city break or a longer Easter vacation, here are some wonderful places to choose from, depending on your preferences.

Easter in Italy – Rome

A great list of the best places to spend Easter in Europe simply has to include Italy – and especially Rome. As it’s spring in Rome the weather is a bit warmer.

Easter in Rome is a special moment to discover the city – as the churches have their special ceremonies for Mundy Thursday, Good Friday, as on Easter Sunday. The local food is a great addition to this special period.

So, book your trip to Rome and take advantage of your trip to Rome to also visit all the amazing Rome attractions – use this complete guide to Rome to make sure you don’t miss a thing!

Italy – Florence and the exploding cart:)

Yes. There is a cart that “explodes” in Florence on Easter Sunday. This folk tradition in Florence is called The Scoppio del Carro (“Explosion of the Cart”) . So, if you want to experience an interesting Easter tradition, then plan your trip to Florence now, book your hotel in Florence , and enjoy!

Easter in France – Paris

Paris is an amazing city and April is a good month to visit. A bit colder and rainier for my taste, but less crowds and beautiful flowers and amazing views all the way. Create your Paris bucket list and add to it some church celebrations and special events in the city.

Notre Dame de Paris has special events during the Holy Week, starting on Palm Sunday, continuing on Holy Thursday, Holy Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday. Sacre-Coeur awaits visitors during the Holy Week (starting Thursday) with special masses as well.

Spending Easter in the City of Light will be an amazing experience as, apart from the religious events, you can also do some shopping – numerous places have special offers.

Moreover, Easter in Paris is a great occasion to visit the city – and you can create an itinerary for one day in Paris if you are on a citybreak in Paris. Most Paris attractions are open – so your trip to Paris will be complete! Don’t wait, book your Paris accommodation now !

France – Colmar

If you want to enjoy the beautiful architecture of Colmar and see the wonderfully designed houses and enjoy a Easter market in France, then head to Colmar. Here you have Easter and spring markets from 4th to 22nd April 2019 in Place Des Dominicains and Place De L’ancienne Douane (from 10am To 7pm – free entrance). Book your hotel in Colmar here .

Easter in Romania – Bucharest

It may not be one of the most famous Easter destinations in Europe, but it can be a surprising one. Romanian’s celebrate the Orthodox Easter – so take that into account when planning your Easter in Romania.

There is an Easter Market in Bucharest – it opens on Palm Sunday and lasts until Easter Sunday – in Herastrau Park (now called King Michael Park). Apart from this big Easter fair, there Easter atmosphere can be seen everywhere – in malls, other parks, shops… Book your trip to Bucharest now!

Romania – countryside

If you want to experience all the beautiful Romanian Easter traditions, then choose a pension in the countryside, either in Moldova or Transylvania. From amazing food to lovely church ceremonies and the warmth of the locals, you’ll have it all. Natural. Different. Less commercial. Special. To remember.

You can choose to stay at a monastery (cheaper accommodation, great food) and you’ll feel the warmth of the holidays. In the countryside you can experience the true spirit of Easter.

Easter in Austria – Vienna (and the biggest tower of eggs)

You know I love Vienna – and the city loves Easter. There are several Easter Markets in Vienna, each with its charm.

Perhaps the most famous one – and easier to see – is the Easter market in front of Schönbrunn Palace (read this guide to visiting Schonnbrun Palace ).

There is another Easter Market in the Old Town –  Old Viennese Easter market on Freyung. It’s here that “ the biggest tower of eggs in Europe is built with around 40,000 painted Easter eggs. “ Vienna is a truly amazing city, so book your trip to Vienna now and enjoy the best of what the city has to offer.

Easter in Spain – Seville

The Easter Week in Sevilla is a great time to be here. Semana Santa is celebrated throughout the country, but, if you visit Seville during Easter you’ll be able to enjoy the Easter celebrations that take place. During the Holy Week in Seville you’ll see the  procession of  pasos , wooden sculptures depicting different scenes or characters related to Easter.

So, book your Seville hotel now – and read this comprehensive guide to Seville to discover what else to see and do in Seville on your trip.

Easter in Germany – Berlin

Easter in Germany is a time to discover great local food and to admire pretty decorated eggs hanged during Easter time. If you want to spend Easter in Berlin, then you should know that you’ll be able to enjoy a few events: the 49th Spring Festival at Kurt-Schumacher-Damm (March 29th to April 21st – a carnival with 60 rides), the Knights’ Festival from 20 to 22 April (all things knights :D), the Easter market on Alexanderplatz and the Easter market on Kurfürstendamm.

If you want to explore the city, I recommend you this comprehensive guide to Berlin and to book your accommodation in Berlin now!

Easter in Portugal – Lisbon

If you plan to visit Lisbon for Easter, then you should know that you won’t be dissapointed. There are numerous attractions in Lisbon as you can see in this guide , but you can also attend the Easter Mass and enjoy the gastronomic Easter delights.

Don’t forget about the splendid Lisbon Castle nor about visiting Belem, Lisbon for a complete experience. Book your Lisbon accommodation now .

As you can easily see, there are many great places to spend the Easter holiday in Europe. You can choose to go on your Easter weekend break, or to plan a longer trip visiting different cities and countries.

One thing is clear: there are numerous Easter celebrations in Europe you can’t miss, so you have plenty of ideas for years to come!

More amazing articles for you:

Related posts.

The Ultimate Chicago Travel Guide – Top Attractions & Recommendations

The Dos and Don’ts of Camping: A Beginners Guide

5 Tips For Travellers Who Want To Travel To Thessaloniki

7 thoughts on “ best easter holiday destinations in europe: where to celebrate easter ”.

LOVE the Easter in Bucharest picture. These are all so interesting. Thanks for such a thorough post! this is great information.

I had no idea Easter was such a big deal in Europe, and am enamored by all the colorful eggs! Note to self — plan a visit next year!

This is a cool list! I think Rome might be really nice. Or that Colmar looks super beautiful. Didn’t even know there was such a place! The only thing is that I’ve already agreed to go on a skiing trip so this year I will have to stay in Finland.

It’s so interesting to see how different cultures celebrate the same holiday! I’d love to witness the celebrations in Seville.

A great guide to Easter. You know I haven’t celebrated Easter ever but if I am ever in Europe at that time. Thank you so much 🙂

I’m craving chocolate eggs now 😉 I’d love to visit Easter in Bucharest or Romania. Must be quite an experience!

I have already been to Semana Santa in Seville and the truth is that Colmar or Bucharest seem very good options. Thank you very much for the article!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Currently you have JavaScript disabled. In order to post comments, please make sure JavaScript and Cookies are enabled, and reload the page. Click here for instructions on how to enable JavaScript in your browser.

Places To Spend Easter in Europe

Updated: Dec 27, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I have personally used and would recommend.

Easter is always a popular time for families to travel. While a lot of people prefer to travel to the beach to soak up some sun, spending Easter in Europe can be the perfect time to immerse yourself in different cultures. Easter is an important time of the year for many Christian families, but it’s also a time for non-Christian families to come together as well.

You don’t necessarily need to celebrate Easter to enjoy the festivities that surround this holiday. For example, you could book a Europe cycling tour and enjoy all that nature has to offer instead. And you may be surprised to learn that Easter isn’t only about chocolate eggs - though they are a nice addition.

If you’re wondering where to spend Easter in Europe, there are a lot of unique options out there. Italy and Spain are two European countries that immediately come to mind when I think of Easter celebrations, thanks to their strong ties to Christianity. But many other countries put on festivities and events to mark Easter and springtime, some of which aren’t strictly tied to religion. Keep in mind though, that flight and hotel prices tend to increase at the end of April, so if you’re wanting to book an Easter weekend break in Europe I would suggest planning ahead of time. That being said, here are some unique European cities to visit in spring, which are also perfect at Easter.

Málaga for Semana Santa

One of the best cities for Easter celebrations in Europe has to be Málaga in southern Spain. Holy Week, or Semana Santa in Spanish, is a week-long celebration in Málaga’s old town leading up to Easter Sunday. Each day of the week (apart from Saturday) you can expect to see processional thrones with holy images and sculptures being carried through the streets. These thrones are enormous, and take hundreds of men to carry on their shoulders, many of which choose to walk barefoot. Most of these processions are accompanied by music or the beat of drums, and it’s an incredibly moving scene to witness in person. Holy Week in Málaga offers one of the best Easter festivals in Europe, drawing over a million visitors each year. It’s definitely not one to be missed if you’re planning on spending Easter in Andalucía .

Kautokeino for the Sámi Easter Festival

If you’re booking a trip to Norway in April, make sure you add the Sámi Easter Festival to your schedule. This festival takes places in the northern reaches of the country, Kautokeino in Lapland, and blends old traditions with new ones. Traditionally, this festival was a meeting of the Sámi people after the long winter. There were celebrations and races to find out who had the fastest reindeer before the herd would migrate to the coast. Today, the world-famous deer races and festivities continue, but new Christian customs have been incorporated into it. You’ll find weddings, Christenings, and Baptisms mixed together with traditional joik singing, folk attire, and hearty Sámi food. It’s a very local celebration, so don’t expect many tourists there, but it’s certainly a unique place to spend Easter in Europe.

Florence for Scoppio del Carro

Italy is home to many beautiful Easter celebrations, from Rome all the way to the smallest villages. It’s a country deeply rooted in Christianity and continues to show the world how proud it is of their main religion. For a very unique experience though, head to Florence for the Scoppio del Carro . The Explosion of the Cart takes place on Easter Sunday, and is exactly what the name suggests. It takes place in Piazza del Duomo and has origins dating back to the First Crusade in the 11th century. The first stage starts with an 18th century cart, piled with firecrackers, being pulled by oxen to the entrance of the cathedral. The cart is then lit on fire by a wooden dove connected to a wire, and a colourful display of fire and smoke ensues. If it’s a success, it means that the city will have another year of good harvest and business. With such an historic event, Florence definitely makes the list as one of the best European cities to visit during Easter.

Leonidio for the Night of the Hot Air Balloons

Leonidio is a small town in Greece with a very interesting way of celebrating Easter. Every year this town, and many others across the country, release hot air balloons (lanterns) into the sky which have been hand made by each household using reed and paper. It’s a tradition dating back to the 19th century, when sailors returned from Asia and brought the idea home with them. As well as the hot air balloons being released into the night sky, an effigy of Judas is set on fire, and the night ends with a fireworks display. This isn’t your typical Easter holiday destination, or festivity, but the Night of the Hot Air Balloons is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Valletta for Holy Week

Malta is a very popular travel destination throughout the year, but Easter is a particularly beautiful time to go. Like Málaga, they too have Holy Week celebrations, which begin the Friday before Good Friday. On this day, a statue of Our Lady of Sorrows is carried through the streets of Valletta , and on Maundy Thursday people visit seven different churches to pay homage at the altars. Good Friday sees a sombre procession through the streets, with statues from the Passion of the Christ being paraded. The Holy Week celebrations end on Sunday with a more uplifting procession through the streets. Valletta offers one of the more traditional Easter festivals in Europe, but that shouldn’t deter you from visiting if you don't celebrate this holiday.

Prague for the Easter Markets

Many Easter traditions in Europe revolve around religious spectacles such as processions or parades. Prague is a little different. While you might find some processions taking place around the city, the big draw for people are the Easter markets . The Old Town Square is home to the largest of these markets, but you’ll find others dotted around the city too. These markets are meant to celebrate the arrival of spring, and aren’t too different from the Christmas markets. Of course, instead of Christmas goods for sale you’ll find Easter eggs and other traditional Czech Easter items. And let’s not forget about the food, because you can’t go to a European market without trying some local dishes. Prague is a great place to spend Easter in Europe if you’re looking for a long weekend getaway that isn’t oriented around religious festivities. It’s one of the best European cities to visit alone too if you're a solo traveller.

The possibilities of places to spend Easter in Europe really are endless. These are just some of the many examples of unique festivities and events that you can experience while on a mini-break. Other European cities like Milan , Cádiz , and even Reykjavik have their own celebrations that are enjoyed by locals and tourists. If you’re planning a trip this Easter, make sure you plan ahead to avoid disappointment and ridiculously high hotel prices though. And don’t forget to bring some Easter eggs along with you.

Have you experienced Easter in Europe before? I’d love to hear of your experiences and recommendations, so please leave me a comment below. You can also follow my travels on Instagram too for more travel tips.

Like this post? Why not pin it for later?

Related Posts

A 4 Day Solo Trip to Oslo, Norway

12 Things To Do in Malaga

9 Free Historic Sites to Visit in Milan

Top 10 Tourist Attractions and Activities in the UAE

5 Tips for Staying Safe When Travelling Abroad in 2024

Top Things to Do in Miami, Florida

Discover Your Perfect Stay

Where to go at Easter 2024 in Europe? 15 holiday destinations

1 - Paris, France

Finally, include an excursion to the Château de Versailles in your programme and you can watch the fountains with their incredible waterworks come back to life. SEE ALSO : What you must see in Paris

Cheap flights: from €35.00 - see deals

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €70 per room - see deals

2 - London, United Kingdom

But the temperatures invite you to discover the most beautiful aspects of the city: the Royal Parks start to get crowded , the colours of neighbourhoods such as Chelsea, Notting Hill and Portobello become more vibrant as well as those of Regent's Park and its zoo. If you love shopping, dive into the markets of Camden Town, Oxford Street, Regent's Street and Neal's Yard. SEE ALSO : What you must see in London

Cheap flights: from €29.98 - see deals

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €45.00 per room - see deals

3 - Seville, Spain

Apart from the religious aspect, the temperatures in Seville are already pre-summer , and visiting the city and its attractions already takes on a different flavour. It is the best time to visit the Alcázar, discover the hidden corners and courtyards of the Barrio Santa Cruz and San Bartolomé, but also simply to wander around, from Plaza de España to the Barrio de Triana, the gypsy quarter; here, it is an absolute must to attend an authentic Flamenco show. SEE ALSO : Easter in Seville - the traditions of Holy Week

Cheap flights: from €49.98 - see deals

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €72.00 per room - see deals

4 - Berlin, Germany

But the city is equally full of initiatives for the young and young-at-heart , who are used to organising fantastic barbecues in the open air, which usually turn into sensational parties as the sun goes down. SEE ALSO : What you must see in Berlin

Cheap flights: from €43.00 - see deals

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €40.00 per room - see deals

5 - Lisbon, Sintra and Caiscais - Portugal

In general, at this time the days are getting longer, the temperatures are pleasant and there is not yet the slightly sultry heat of summer. It is the best time to discover the city , stroll through its Bairros, enjoy the music of Fado in the Alfama district and wander around the trams and elevadors. Above all, we recommend a day trip to Sintra, Cabo da Roca and Cascais. You will discover a journey of incredible castles, lush gardens and majestic coastlines. SEE ALSO : What you must see in Lisbon

Cheap flights: from €52.00 - check out the offers

6 - Amsterdam, Tulips and Windmills

And while we're on the subject of excursions, it's the perfect time of year to discover the Mill Routes , with anexcursion to Zaanse Schans, Volendam and Marken.

Cheap flights: from €57.00 - see offers

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €88.00 per room - see offers

7 - Marseille, Avignon and Camargue Park

Avignon is one of the bastions of Christianity, a medieval city located in the south of France. The ancient walls enclose extraordinary sights, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Avignon is home to the world's largest Gothic complex , the Palais des Papes, which was the papal residence in the 14th century. In April, there are special events dedicated to children: the Festival of Clowns and the Festo Pitcho where you can enjoy puppet shows, theatre performances live music and dance.

If you have a few extra days, devote it to an excursion to the Camargue Park : pass through Arles, the town chosen by Van Gogh to spend his last years, and from here enjoy a half-day 4x4 safari in the unspoilt nature.

Cheap flights: from €75.00 - see offers

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €59.00 per room - see offers

8 - Ghent, Bruges and the Villages of Flanders

But perhaps the most famous city in Flanders, on a par with the capital, is Bruges, with its fairytale-like appearance. Between squares and Gothic palaces, besides the Lake of Love and the Lovers' Bridge, there is also a not bad food and wine aspect ! Bruges, and Belgium in general, is indeed known for its tradition of master brewers! Here you can visit the historic brewery De Halve Maan . But not only beer: in Bruges there is also a French Fries Museum and a Chocolate Museum! Not a bad idea, eh?

If you stay a few more days, mark down on your itinerary some beautiful villages and towns in Flanders : Ypres, Ostend, Oudenaarde and, a little further away, Antwerp.

Cheap flights: from €108.00 - see offers

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €89.00 per room - see offers

9 - Salzburg, Worlds of Salt and Ice Giants

If you stay longer than a weekend, we recommend exploring the surroundings of Salzburg. Specifically, a wonderful experience is a visit to the Salt Worlds , an adventure in the salt mines where the Celts already extracted salt in 400 BC. Here, you can take a little train ride through the mountains , past salt lakes, multimedia trails and miners' slides.

And after the Salt Worlds, move on to the Ice Giant Worlds : this is the largest ice cave in the world ! A 42-kilometre-long system of tunnels with brilliant ice formations that take on fairy-tale names, such as 'Kingdom of Diamonds '. You can walk up to the World of Ice Giants or take Austria's steepest cable car up to the cave entrance!

Cheap flights: from €77.00 - see offers

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €75.00 per room - see offers

10 - Sofia and Rila National Park

Nearby, we recommend anexcursion to the Seven Lakes and Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site. SEE ALSO : Must-sees in Sofia, Bulgaria

Cheap flights: from €40.00 - see deals

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €35.00 per room - see deals

11 - Athens and Ancient Corinth

If you have an extra day available, take advantage of it for anexcursion to the historic Argolis region, discovering Corinth, Epidaurus and Mycenae : you will discover the birthplaces of Apollo, the Sanctuary of Asclepius and the legendary reign of Agamemnon!

Cheap flights: from €30.00 - see offers

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €35.00 per room - see offers

12 - Copenhagen and Danish Castles

After a couple of days in the Danish capital, if you have an extra day at your disposal, don't miss anexcursion to Hamlet's Castle in nearby Helsingør. This is the very castle that inspired Shakespeare for his famous novel , and the manor house is still in perfect condition today!

Cheap flights: from €60.00 - see offers

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €85.00 per room - look at the offers

13 - Canary Islands

Cheap flights: from €90.00 - see offers

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €55.00 per room - see offers

14 - Turkish Coast: Bodrum and Marmaris

This is the stretch of coastline that is reached first by the heat, even if you won't find properly summery temperatures, you will still be able to enjoy the late spring sun, and with a bit of luck the temperatures will rise above 20 degrees to give you the chance for an early dip ! But beaches aside, there are plenty of things to see here: Bodrum is home to the Theatre and the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus , where the remains of one of the 7 Wonders of the Ancient World can be found! If you prefer to let loose in the night life and enjoy one of Turkey's most beautiful promenades, in Marmaris you will find the famous Bar Street and the beautiful pedestrian promenade, as well as perfect diving spots!

Cheap flights: from €110.00 - see offers

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €50.00 per room - see offers

15 - Malaga and Caminito del Rey

Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €60.00 per room - see offers

Sun Island Resort & SPA is trending right now! Compare rates >>>

100 people have viewed Sun Island Resort & SPA in the last 24 hours!

200 new users have joined Ratepunk community today.

Browser Extension

Best Easter Destinations in Europe 2023 | Ratepunk | European Easter Cities

Spirit of Easter can be felt each year all over European cities, but if you are planning to travel for Easter, there are always destinations that offer more than the others. Take a look at our chosen Best Easter Destinations in Europe in 2023.

Published: Jan 05, 2023 • min read

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague simply has so much to offer. Even after you've visited the typical must-see attractions like Prague Castle, the Astronomical Clock, and Charles Bridge, there is still a ton to do. You can just walk around the city and be amazed by the gorgeous buildings and architecture you see around you. Don’t be surprised by the number of people you see on the streets, as Prague is quite famous for tourism and has many visitors throughout the year.

Easter is a perfect time to visit Prague because the city offers a wide range of activities including markets, cruises, fairs, and church services during this time. The wooden huts that make up the Prague Easter Markets are painted in vivd springtime hues and filled with regional handicrafts and classical Easter fare. Mosaics, jewelry, glasses, wooden toys, candles, puppet masters, and dolls decked out in traditional clothing are some of the goods for sale. But the most important part of the market is eggs!  You can find many stores that sell different types of hand-colored eggs with ribbons and there are plenty of workshops for children on how to paint eggs or make ribbons. Besides, there are many shows and concerts happening at or around these markets that many of which are made for children. Therefore, Prague is one of the  best cities to visit with kids in Europe at Easter time.

You can visit the markets every day from March 25 to April 16, 2023, from 10 to 22.

Do you want to book hotels for your Easter trip at their cheapest price?! Make sure to download Ratepunk before your next vacation!

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is undoubtedly a well-liked travel destination, especially for short stays. One of the famous reasons for visiting Vienna is the architecture of the buildings. There are buildings from Pre-war architecture,  Viennese post-war architecture (starting 1960s), some revolutionary buildings from the 1980s, and of course the modern buildings of the 21st century. Of course, Vienna is also famous for art. There are museums, theaters, and musicals happening here all year round.

Other than Christmas, Easter is the most significant holiday of the year in Vienna, and it is lavishly observed over several days with marches, markets, plays, and traditional foods you must try at least once in your life. The main markets are  Freyung, Am Hof, and Schönbrunn markets. In all these markets you can expect to find many decorative eggs, chocolates and traditional cuisine. You will also find that these markets are very well decorated with interesting lighting, and special sculptures or giant eggs!

These markets usually start running around 10-11 days before Easter and usually run through to Easter Monday.

Bologna, Italy 

Bologna might not be as famous as other cities in Italy for tourism such as Venice, Florence, or Rome, but it is absolutely an astonishing city for short visits. The city is full of historical and cultural places to visit such as Piazza Maggiore, Basilica - Santuario di Santo Stefano, Santuario di Madonna di San Luca, and many others.  Besides, the city offers amazing restaurants with delicious food for food lovers.

Easter is one of the best times to visit this city because all of the churches of the city will have ceremonies but the most special event happens on Easter Monday at  The Santuario di San Luca.  Locals and visitors all attend the ceremony at this place to show their gratitude to the saint. This place is linked to the city center by a road that, winds for four kilometers with the biggest portico in the world, which boasts over 600 arches. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2021 along with the other city porticoes. This place offers an amazing view of the whole city, so even on a regular day, people come to this place, have a picnic, and enjoy the view.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

For sure Amsterdam is one of the best tourist destinations in Europe that offers many activities and attractions for visitors. Amsterdam is the city of bicycles and you see riders all around the city, also tourists can rent bicycles and join these big crowds to explore the city. The other interesting option to see the city is to take a boat ride in the narrow canals of Amsterdam which runs through the streets of the city. The city has many famous museums to visit with different characteristics and exhibitions. That's why the city is our first chosen destination for  BEST ART EXHIBITIONS IN EUROPE 2023 .

Visiting Amsterdam during Easter time can add much value to your Amsterdam trip. Easter time is the best time of the year to visit Dutch flowers in their full glory. There are many areas inside the city where you can watch these beautiful flowers. For those who are traveling with kids, Amsterdam in Easter can be a special trip. On Easter Sunday, feeding farms throw easter parties for kids which includes egg decoration, egg hunts, and many other activities. Also, there are several parks for families to throw Easter picnics.  Some of these parks are  Erasmuspark, Beatrixpark, Amsterdamse Bos.

As the weather gets better, several outdoor markets start appearing in different places in Amsterdam. Easter time is a great time to experience spending your evenings at these markets, eat delicious food, and buy Easter decorations.

In case you are located or traveling to the US, check the chosen Best Easter Destinations in USA for this year.

Seville, Spain

Seville (or Sevilla in Spanish) is the capital of the Spanish region and province of Andalusia and has a population of approximately 700,000 people, making it the fourth-largest city in Spain. Although it might not be as popular as other tourist cities in Spain such as Barcelona, Madrid or Mallorca, it definitely has its own charm and many people describe it as a special city. The city is full of attractions and some of the most famous ones are Plaza de Spana, Catedral de Sevilla, and Setas de Sevilla (Metropol Parasol), which are all gorgeous buildings.

Easter is a special time of the year in Seville and is celebrated in many traditional ways. Celebrating Easter in Seville goes back to the 16th century and has become more famous through the years. In the most traditional way, 50,000 people dress up in conventional robes and march in the 58 organized parades, while "costaleros" carry the Pasos (religious statues) on their shoulders. The parades happen day and night by different churches that each have their own specific paths. Easter considers an important and emotional time for this city as religion, art, and people come together to show their respect.

Jan 05, 2023

Recent blog posts

Mar 13, 2024

How I became a Travel Agent and Quit my 9 to 5

Here, I will write the secrets of the travel industry and teach you how to use them to your advantage to travel way cheaper and sell your travel agent services!

Feb 28, 2024

Dune 2 Filming Locations: Where You Should Travel

The eagerly anticipated sequel to Denis Villeneuve's "Dune" promises to be a visual masterpiece, just like its predecessor. "Dune: Part Two" not only continues the epic saga of Paul Atreides and the battle for control of the desert planet Arrakis but also showcases a variety of stunning locations across the globe

Feb 27, 2024

Ever tracked hotel price AFTER booking? In 57% of the cases, you would have saved, data shows

RatePunk data shows why travelers should always book free-cancellation hotels and track hotel prices after booking in 2024.

Feb 22, 2024

Reseña: ¿Es RatePunk Legítimo o una Estafa?

Ratepunk es una extensión gratuita para navegadores que te ayuda a ahorrar dinero automáticamente buscando precios de hoteles en Internet mientras navegas por tu web de reservas favorita. De esta forma, cuando encuentras un hotel ideal Ratepunk te muestra si hay un precio mejor para él o si ya has conseguido el mejor.

Reseña de Travel Arrow: Características y Alternativas

Las extensiones de navegador son cada vez más populares y muy útiles. Si estás buscando extensiones de viaje y quieres saber más sobre Travel Arrow y sus alternativas, tienes que leer este blog.

Feb 20, 2024

Will hotels get cheaper in 2024? 2023 data + predictions.

After analyzing 150K+ hotel searches, we can see a clear trend of OTAs lowering their overall rates to stay competitive in their market with their prices. This 2023 data shows how fast OTAs are lowering their rates, and RatePunk's official prediction is that this trend will follow well into 2024.

Leave a comment

Your Message

Never miss out on a better rate!

Sign up to receive a desktop reminder.

Available in the

Chrome Web Store

Firefox add-ons.

Trusted by 100k+ users

• Small & Medium Business Travel
• Sports Travel
• TV, Media & Music Tours
• Group Travel
• Multi-Destination Travel
• Active Travel
• Cruise Travel
• Special Occasion Travel
• Food & Drink Travel
• Beach Travel
• Family Travel
• Australasia
• Middle East
• North America
• South America
• Inspiration
• Meet The Team

The Five Best Places in Europe to Spend Easter

With the Easter holidays just around the corner, it’s certainly time to have a think about where you’d like to spend that well-earned time off. Whether it’s for your new family, you and a friend or just solo, we have some of the best places in Europe to spend Easter this year.

From Paris in the springtime, a Viennese boat ride on the Danube or a hike on England’s rolling hills, you’re sure to find something to inspire your Easter holiday.

Paris, France

As Audrey Hepburn once said, ‘Paris is always a good idea’, and what could be better than Paris in the springtime? The ‘city of lights’ looks particularly lovely in March, April and May when the cherry blossom trees are decked in soft pastel pinks, leaving their confetti-like blossoms all about the city streets.

Paris is a city to see and be seen, especially when it comes to the unrivalled café culture. Go to Les Marais for a true taste of Parisienne life. Have a café au lait on one of the many bistros and cafes that line the streets or take in a small glass of vin rouge with some traditional French cheeses and breads to nibble on.

Where to stay: Hotel Plaza Athenee

Ideally located a few steps from the Arc De Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower, this 208-roomed hotel is a jewel of Paris luxury hotels. Since opening in 1913 this grand hotel offers two types of décor, from Louis XVI and Regency style on the first six floors with art deco on the top two floors. And for fans of Sex & The City, this is the hotel Carrie Bradshaw stayed at during her trip to Paris in the last series’ penultimate episodes.

Seville, Spain

Seville is the capital of Spain’s Andalusia region and is world renowned for its flamenco dancing, particularly in its Triana neighbourhood. This southern Spanish city is drenched in glorious sunshine throughout most of the year, making it general a safe bet for good weather whenever you go. Along with sunshine, you can also see the ornate Alcázar castle complex, built during the Moorish Almohad dynasty, and the 18th-century Plaza de Toros de la Maestranza bullring. The Gothic Seville Cathedral is the site of Christopher Columbus’s tomb – ideal for history buffs. Seville’s Holy Week celebrations run from April 9 th -16 th making this a prime location for those who truly want to celebrate Easter

Where to stay: Hotel Alfonso XIII

This luxury hotel reopened in 2012 to much fanfare, with an extensive $25 million renovation which updated the 151 guestrooms and suites with custom furnishings with a blend of Moorish, Andalusian and Castilian styles. The hotel’s Bar Americano has a distinct art deco flair and after your drinks, you can have dinner at the Restaurante Taifas. A decadently delightful hotel.

Vienna, Austria

Austria’s capital of Vienna lies on the banks of the enchanting Danube River. This important cultural hub of Europe has influenced such important people as Franz Schubert, Sigmund Freud, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss II. Once you walk along the banks of the Danube, around the city’s Schönbrunn Palace and in the old town, you can see why people have been inspired for centuries. Vienna is home to many museums for history lovers and there are hundreds of cafes to have a coffee and a slice of the world famous achertorte.

One of the other things to see in Vienna are the beautiful parks. In spring the city is in full bloom with many public gardens showing their finest flowers. One such park is the Stadtpark, a large municipal park that extends from the Ringstraße in the Innere Stadt first district up to the Heumarkt in the Landstraße third district. Scattered throughout the park are statues of famous Viennese artists, writers and composers giving you even more a feeling of the cultural importance of the city. Take in the city from a different view with a relaxing boat ride along the Danube River and pass top attractions like the KunstHausWein and the Prater.

Where to stay: Hotel Imperial

The palatial Hotel Imperial is beyond opulent with its sumptuously furnished suites. Opened in 1873 and located in Vienna’s city centre, the hotel offers guests a gracefully restored café, with Viennese culinary classics along with light variations of Austrian-style cooking with a modern gourmet twist. Famous for its impeccable service and decadent atmosphere, The Hotel Imperial is a must for those who want to experience old world European luxury.

The Lake District, England

Explore England’s largest National Park this Easter holiday with a trip to The Lake District, which – based in Cumbria – is home to England’s highest mountain Scafell Pike. The breath-taking sights of some of the best of England’s countryside will invigorate and inspire you. Whether your passions lie in taking in the rolling hills with a hike or a boat trip on the famous Lake Windermere, there is something here to suit all tastes.

For those with a love of classic English literature, a visit to Ullswater, the second largest lake in the Lake District, is a must. William Wordsworth’s “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” was inspired by the sight of daffodils on the shores of Ullswater in 1802.

Where to stay: Linthwaite House , Windermere

Linthwaite House, is one of the most luxurious hotels in the Lake District. Awarded ‘Most Excellent Country House Hotel’ by Johansens and placed in the top 200 hotels of the UK by the AA, this exquisite hotel is located in 14 acres (5.7 hectares) of established gardens and well-maintained private woodlands. Set on a hilltop overlook the beautiful Lake Windermere, the boutique hotel has 30 rooms making this a perfect destination to rest your head after taking in the refreshing English country air.

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!

Get our Rail Planner app

Plan your trip, get extra discounts, and show your Pass as you go.

Our favourite spring routes

Celebrate spring with these 7 off-the-beaten-path train routes

All about seat reservations

Everything you need to know about booking your seats

Alternatives to Busy Routes

Travel between popular European cities without seat reservations

Through our Chatbot in the bottom right corner.

Ask the Community

Browse questions from fellow Interrail travellers, or ask your own!

• Rail Life Stories
• Events & attractions

5 European destinations to visit at Easter

• Order overview
• Reservations overview
• My Trips & Travelers
• {{translatedTraveler}} {{#promotional}} {{currencySign}} {{standardPrice}} {{/promotional}} {{quantity}}x {{currencySign}} {{finalPrice}}
• Child {{childPasses}}x FREE
• {{translatedPassType}}
• {{translatedValidityPeriodDescription}}
• {{translatedClass}}
• Remove Pass(es)
• {{variant.localizedTravelPackDescription}} {{quantity}}x Free
• {{variant.localizedPassUpgradeDescription}} {{quantity}}x {{currency}} {{price}}
• Your order will arrive by {{expectedDeliveryDate}} 1 x {{currency}} {{price}}

Your cart is empty

If you've ever wanted to travel across Europe during the Easter period, you won't be disappointed, especially if you travel by rail. With spring flowers, scenery and sunshine, the months of April to June are the perfect time to go travelling.

And, what's more? Discover some of Europe's unique Easter celebrations, from egg decorating to fantastic fiestas. Here are some of our favourite European destinations to visit at this time of year. 

Maria Clark

WRITER @ INTERRAIL

1. Vienna, Austria

Austria's capital city oozes charm all year round, but when it comes to Easter, Vienna is the place to be. Visit one of the capital's famous Easter markets, such as Ostermarkt Freyung, am Hof and Schloss Schönbrunn to discover a variety of artisan goods, crafts and regional cooking. And, of course, don't forget the Easter eggs! Visit Freyung market to buy beautiful hand-painted eggs, ready to hang on your Osterbaum (Easter tree). Spring is also a great time to explore some of Vienna's fantastic museums, including the Art History and Belvedere Museums, or simply to wander down the blossom-covered boulevards. 

Travel tip : the Viennese Easter markets usually take place in the fortnight leading up to Easter weekend. Check the dates before you travel to ensure you don't miss out! 

2. Zagreb, Croatia

The stunning city of Zagreb is highly underrated, and even more so at Easter. From the enormous hand-painted Easter eggs in front of Zagreb Cathedral in the Kaptol district, to the Easter Fair at  Ban Jelačić Square , there's plenty for you to see in Zagreb. Easter is a very important time of year in Croatia, where families come together for unique traditions and to celebrate Christ. Visit the Dolac market to stock up on your essential Easter goodies (including sirnica , Easter bread, and kroštule, sweet pastry knots), and don't miss the Passion Heritage Festival!  Discover Croatia's rich culture with this series of theatre performances, art installations and concerts held across the city. 

Travel tip : travel to Zagreb on your Global Pass via many major European cities, including Budapest, Ljubljana and Vienna.

3. Seville, Spain 

Visiting Seville during Semana Santa , or Holy Week is an experience you'll never forget. It's the most important fiesta of the year, and from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, the streets are filled with nearly 60 processions  commemorating the Passion and Death of Christ. Even if you're not religious, these parades are not to be missed, with beautiful pasos (religious statues) and traditional singing. 

Want to escape the crowds? Take advantage of the quiet and visit some of Seville's top sights, including the unforgettable Alcázar Palace and Plaza De España , before enjoying the vibrant evening atmosphere. Tapas, of course, goes without saying. 

Travel tip : Seville has excellent train connections with other Spanish, Portuguese and French cities. Why not purchase a Spain One Country Pass for unlimited train travel around the country?

4. Zurich, Switzerland

With a historical old town, a modern west side and the glittering waters of Lake Zurich, Switzerland's trendy city has something for everyone. Visit at Easter to watch the city come to life with spring flowers, swans and - of course - enough chocolate to last a lifetime. Visiting the Lindt museum at Easter is a must, but don't forget to check out the other chocolate shops, including the iconic Sprüngli, Teuscher and Confiserie Honold. Then, after you've eaten your fill, head up to the Lindenhof for spectacular views across the city. 

Tip: Switzerland can be very expensive, so consider your accommodation. Take a night train to Austria or the Netherlands to save money and continue your travels while you sleep!

5. Athens, Greece 

Greek Orthodox Easter is a magical occasion that you'll remember for the rest of your life. Usually occurring on a different date to Western Easter, this religious celebration is the most important week of the year in Greece. Head to Athens, the capital, during Holy Week, to witness the preparations for this significant event. Sample Easter treats, including koulourakia biscuits and sweet tsoureki brioche as you wander through the ancient streets, or join the locals dying eggs red on Holy Thursday. 

After visiting the Acropolis , the Ancient Agora and the vibrant Monastiraki district, it's time to join in with the religious celebrations. Don't miss the candlelit procession of  Epitaphios  on Good Friday and the midnight mass on Easter Saturday, where Christ's resurrection is celebrated with singing, fireworks and bell-ringing. 

Travel tip: Athens can be reached by rail from major European cities, including Thessaloniki (Greece) and Skopje (North Macedonia). You can also travel to the Greek islands using the ports of Piraeus or Rafina. 

Maria's tips for Easter travel

• Be respectful of all religious practices and services during your stay.
• When visiting places of worship, make sure to dress respectfully
• Prepare for large groups of people and crowds during celebrations. 
• Get a taste of local culture through EatWith , allowing you to join local residents for dinner.
• Check opening hours online before visiting museums, attractions and places of worship; Easter events may impact them. 
• Be aware that train services may also be impacted by Easter hours. Visit the railway carrier's website for the most up-to-date information.
• Follow local health guidelines when visiting crowded places.
• Go open-minded and ready to explore! 

You might like this as well:

Change of currency

You cannot change the currency once you have a Pass in your cart. Remove the Pass, and then change the currency on the website header.

Protect Your Trip »

Best eastern europe travel spots.

Eastern European countries are often overlooked in favor of popular Western European destinations, but they really shouldn't be. With rich history, gorgeous architecture and a variety of cultures, Eastern Europe offers a wealth of destinations to explore – and at a much lower price point. U.S. News considered attractions, amenities and more to determine the best places to visit in Eastern Europe. Don't forget to vote below for your favorite locations to help influence next year's list. As you're planning your trip abroad, it's best to consider international travel insurance for added protection.  (Note: Some destinations were not considered in this ranking due to the Russia-Ukraine war.) 

Transylvania

Tatra mountains, ceský krumlov, lake balaton, karlovy vary.

From Prague Castle to the Old Town Square to the famous Charles Bridge, Czechia's capital offers history and architecture that rivals any European city. Visit top sights like St. Vitus Cathedral and the Astronomical Clock at Old Town Hall, then wander through the Jewish Quarter to see the historic synagogues and one of the oldest surviving Jewish cemeteries of its kind. Prague is also about 60 miles northeast of Pilsen, the birthplace of Pilsner-style beer, so you'll find pints in bars on every corner.

The magic of Budapest lies in is its stunning historical architecture. You'll find fairy-tale-like structures, such as the neo-Gothic Fisherman's Bastion, the medieval Buda Castle, the neo-Renaissance St. Stephen's Basilica and the second-largest synagogue in the world, the Moorish Revival Dohány Street Synagogue. Plus, the "City of Spas" sits on top of 118 thermal springs and features several thermal baths, including the Széchenyi Baths and the Gellért Thermal Bath, making it an excellent destination for a relaxing vacation. Another bonus: Prices for lodging in this Hungarian city are a fraction of what you'll pay in cities like Rome and Paris.

With its sparkling blue water and ancient sights and streets, the seaside Croatian city of Split mixes stunning scenery with old-world charm. Visitors can stroll up and down Old Town's cobblestone streets, passing by fourth-century sights like the Cathedral of St. Domnius and Diocletian's Palace as they go. The palace, which was originally built to be the Roman emperor Diocletian's retirement home, is now one of the liveliest places in the city, with restaurants, bars and shops.

While you won't find any vampires here, a trip to Transylvania will make you feel like you've stepped inside a fictional land. Sitting in the shadow of the Carpathian Mountains, this region in Romania is best known for its dramatic scenery and medieval fortresses, churches and castles, including Bran Castle, Bram Stoker's inspiration for Count Dracula's home. Transylvania is also where you'll find some of Romania's most charming cities, such as Brasov and Sibiu. If you need a break from the area's rich history, check out the Turda Salt Mine, an underground amusement park built within a former salt mine.

Another gem in Croatia, this coastal city has gained popularity with travelers in recent years thanks to its picturesque location on the Adriatic Sea, its UNESCO-sanctioned Old City and its seafood-centric cuisine. For amazing photo ops, take a cable car up to the summit of Mount Srd for a bird's-eye view of the city and the nearby island of Lokrum. "Game of Thrones" fans will likely recognize many of Dubrovnik's sights, as much of the show was filmed here.

Bulgaria's capital and largest city makes an excellent vacation spot for travelers looking for a laid-back, affordable Eastern European trip. As one of Europe's oldest capital cities, Sofia has a rich history and culture, which visitors can learn about at the National History Museum, the Sofia History Museum and the Museum of Socialist Art. Another can't-miss attraction is the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of Bulgaria's most famous (and eye-catching) landmarks. After sightseeing and museum hopping, vacationers can make their way to Borisova Gradina park to relax.

Estonia's capital city might not fit your typical idea of a vacation destination, but dig a little deeper and you'll be delighted by the beautiful Russian Orthodox architecture found at St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the pink Toompea Castle (where parliament meets) and the regal Kadriorg Palace, which houses the Kadriorg Art Museum. Other can't-miss sights in Tallinn include the lower Old Town area and Lahemaa National Park, located roughly 30 miles northeast of the city. Before leaving, make sure you try some of the delicious chocolates made by Kalev Chocolate Shop, the oldest confectionary in Estonia.

A true fishing port, as well as a popular summer retreat, Rovinj, Croatia, is located on the western coast of the Istria peninsula in the Adriatic Sea. The town and its 14 surrounding islands, including the popular St. Catherine and Red islands, are scattered with picturesque sandy and pebbly beaches throughout. But with Rovinj's small size and big appeal, it can get crowded (and quickly) during peak travel season in late spring and summer, so you'll want to finalize your vacation plans at least a few months in advance.

Montenegro is less than 6,000 square miles (or slightly smaller than the size of Connecticut), but what this destination lacks in size it more than makes up for in charm. Medieval towns, magnificent mountains, breathtaking beaches and charismatic locals await you in this Balkan country. Wander past the red-roofed stone churches and romantic squares in Kotor, or view some of Montenegro's natural wonders, such as the startlingly blue Mediterranean waters surrounding Sveti Stefan and Tara Canyon, the second-deepest canyon in the world.

Many of Bucharest's tourist attractions offer insight into the city's communist history, including the Palace of Parliament, which features 1,100 rooms and is billed as the second-largest administrative building in the world. Visit the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant and the open-air National Museum of the Village Dimitrie Gusti to gain insight into the history of the Romanian people. Then, explore the charming Old Town area and enjoy Bucharest's impressive gastronomic offerings, which include a mix of traditional hearty dishes and modern international staples.

Bratislava is often called "the Beauty on the Danube" – and it's easy to see why. The Slovakian capital, a popular river cruise destination, is full of stunning architectural sights, including the art nouveau Blue Church, the Baroque Bratislava Castle and the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral. What's more, Bratislava features all kinds of quirky bronze statues (think: a man in a manhole and a Napoleon army soldier hunched over a bench) scattered throughout the city. When the sun goes down, head to a bar, pub or club to get a taste of the city's superb nightlife scene.

This Lithuanian capital wows with its Baroque architecture, but it doesn't stay stuck in the past. Vilnius' Old Town offers an interesting mix of the old and the new, with cobblestone streets that lead to boutiques and trendy restaurants (head to Paupys Market for some of the most noteworthy spots). Be sure to take in the beautiful architecture of the Gates of Dawn shrine and the Church of St. Anne, and for panoramic city vistas, climb to Gediminas' Tower or take a ride to the revolving observation platform at the top of the Vilnius Television Tower.

You might be surprised to learn that of all of the destinations in Europe, the capital city of Slovenia is often considered one of the greenest cities on the continent. But once you get an eyeful of its expansive green spaces and car-free city center, it's easy to see why. Stroll through the charming Old Town, snap photos of sights like Ljubljana Castle and grab a bite at one of the many picturesque cafes that line the Ljubljanica river. If you're planning a winter visit, don't miss Ljubljana's Christmas market, when Old Town's Prešeren Square dazzles with lights and a towering tree.

This city on Poland's Baltic coast was made for scenic strolls. Admire the colorful architecture and Gothic Town Hall (all rebuilt after World War II) on Dlugi Targ Street, Gdansk's main thoroughfare, or peruse the galleries and jewelers on Mariacka Street. While in Old Town, visit St. Mary's Church, an immense Gothic structure. And you'd be remiss to skip a walk along the embankment of the Motlawa River, where you'll find a medieval crane and charming restaurants. Beyond its beautiful facades, Gdansk has an engrossing history that can be explored in museums like the European Solidarity Centre and the Museum of the Second World War.

Located in central Latvia on the gulf with the same name, Riga offers colorful, art nouveau architecture and a pedestrian-friendly Old Town. Take a tour of the House of the Black Heads before strolling through the picturesque Town Hall Square. Also save time for savoring authentic Latvian fare at a restaurant or Riga Central Market, one of the largest markets in Europe. And for a unique take on local history, head outside the city to the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia, where you'll find 118 historical buildings that reflect Latvian culture through the ages.

Eastern Europe isn't only home to grand cities with magnificent architecture. Destinations like Latvia's Jurmala, the largest resort area in the Baltics, are ideal for a relaxing getaway. Jurmala's white sand beach stretches for more than 15 miles along the coast. Visitors can also cool off at Livu Akvaparks, the largest indoor water park in Latvia and one of the largest in Northern Europe. Away from the water, Jomas Street – Jurmala's main pedestrian thoroughfare – is a terrific place to take a leisurely stroll and grab a souvenir or bite to eat.

This mountain range on the Poland-Slovakia border is a popular destination for both winter and summer recreation. When snow hits the Tatras mid-December through April, Zakopane, Poland (about 70 miles south of Krakow) is the place to be for easy access to ski resorts, thermal springs and quaint wooden architecture. In warmer months (June through September), visitors hit trails that lead to peaks, valleys and high-lying lakes that rival the beauty of the Alps. During these months, the Slovakian side typically has fewer crowds and more dramatic scenery, though it's not as easily accessible.

?eský Krumlov, located in southwest Czech Republic, has preserved its medieval architecture and layout, making it a unique time capsule with storybook appeal. Most visitors make a beeline for its most imposing attraction –?eský Krumlov Castle. The castle complex, which consists of 40 buildings and palaces and spans roughly 17 acres, offers a glimpse into noble life dating back to the 14th century. Can't-miss sights include intricate palace interiors, an ornate Baroque theater, a bear moat, gardens and a tower with expansive views. Across the Vltava River, the winding streets of ?eský Krumlov's Old Town lend more stunning architecture, as well as pubs and shops.

Hungary's Lake Balaton, one of Europe's largest lakes, makes for an easy, relaxing day trip from Budapest. In summer, the lake's warm temperatures and shallow water make it a great place for swimming and sailing, while in winter, the lake's frozen surface gets thick enough for ice skating. A bike ride around the lake is also a must, as is exploring the lake's surrounding towns, which come alive with festivals throughout the summer. When travelers are ready to unwind, they can visit one of Lake Balaton's vineyards to sip a refreshing glass of white wine.

Less than 80 miles northwest of Prague, Karlovy Vary appeals to anyone looking for a rejuvenating vacation. The Czech Republic's famous spa town has no shortage of incredible wellness facilities that offer a range of treatments. When you're not busy relaxing, take some time to explore and see local sights like the Church of St. Mary Magdalene and the Mill Colonnade. You'll likely come across a few thermal springs while walking around. If so, take a drink from one of these springs; they're said to have healing properties. While you're here, treat yourself to a stay at one of the renowned luxury hotels in the area.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Veliko Tarnovo

Gjirokastër

Plitvice Lakes National Park

You May Be Interested In

Best Places to Visit in Europe for 2023-2024

Switzerland

Best Places to Visit in Switzerland

Best Cheap European Honeymoon Destinations

Best Places to Visit in Germany

World's best places to visit for 2023-2024.

Best Cheap European Vacations for 2023-2024

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

Why Easter is traditionally the perfect time to travel Europe

Recently updated on July 25th, 2023 at 04:47 pm

Gorgeous spring blooms, perfectly mild weather, shoulder-season perks and amazing festivals and events… Need we say more? Easter is the perfect time to travel to Europe, and if you’re dreaming of a spring Europe trip in 2022 , it’s time to start planning. To help you get inspired, here are some of the best reasons why an Easter travel experience in Europe will be your best one yet.

Beautiful, blooming landscapes

Since Easter traditionally falls in spring in Europe, your Easter travel adventure is a great opportunity to see the lush green valleys and vibrant flowers blooming after winter. Snowy mountains turn into flower-dotted meadows and you can go hiking, driving and sightseeing to your heart’s content. See the tulips of the Netherlands, the poppies of Italy, the bluebells of England, or the alpine wildflowers of Switzerland. Wherever you go, it’s bound to be beautiful.

RELATED CONTENT: 11 of the best destinations to visit for Springtime in Europe 2021

Shoulder season perks

While the Easter holidays can be a busy time for travel, March to May still falls in the off-peak or shoulder season. That comes with a few benefits. In the shoulder season, you’ll still get decent weather and longer daylight hours, but you’ll also enjoy lower prices on everything. From flights to hotels, you’ll likely find deals that you just don’t find in the high season during summer. You also won’t have to contend with the bigger crowds of summer. And when you don’t have to wait in line for attractions and restaurants, you get far more time to make the most of your trip.

Great weather

If you can’t stand the blistering heat of summer or the freezing cold of winter, Easter is the perfect time for you to travel to Europe. Springtime dishes up the perfect mild weather for travelling – not too hot and not too cold. While you’ll likely get a few days of rain, it’s worth it for the spring sunshine and comfortable temperatures.

RELATED CONTENT: Six Spring Events in Europe to Put You in a Festival Mood

You’ll get to meet the locals

Many locals tend to either getaway during the high season or are busy running their businesses. In the more relaxed shoulder season, you’re more likely to meet the locals and get to know what it’s really like to live in their town or city. With less crowded cafes, restaurants and parks, you might get to strike up a conversation and even learn all kinds of gems like where to get the best coffee in town. When you travel in Easter over the spring shoulder season, you’re also doing your part to avoid overtourism and the overcrowding of too many tourists that is damaging to the environment and communities. 

Incredible events

Easter is an important event across most of Europe. There are plenty of fun Easter celebrations to be found all over the continent, which usually includes plenty of good food, chocolate eggs, and spiritual events. Besides the Easter cheer, there are plenty of amazing spring-time events in Europe.

See the traditional snowman light up in Zürich once the first spring blooms arrive or witness the colourful boat parade at the Festa della Sensa in Venice. Marvel at the stunning tulips at the Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse, or indulge at the International Chocolate Festival in Óbidos. Wander the beautiful gardens of the Chelsea Flower Show in London or celebrate St Patrick’s Day in Dublin. All of these events are incredibly popular and if you’re thinking about an Easter travel experience in 2022, be sure to book now to ensure you score tickets to your bucket list events.

RELATED CONTENT: 9 incredible travel experiences that should be planned a year or more in advance

The Passion Play in Oberammergau

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Passionsspiele Oberammergau (@passionsspiele_oberammergau)

Looking for the ultimate Easter holidays event in 2022? It’s got to be the Passion Play in Oberammergau , Germany. It only happens once a decade, and luckily, the next performance falls in 2022.

The people of Oberammergau have performed this extraordinary play every 10 years since 1634 to thank God for sparing them from the 17th-century plague. It’s regarded as one of the most important passion plays in the world, and is a profound celebration of the life, sacrifice and the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Hundreds of thousands of people flock to Oberammergau every decade to witness this powerful event. Trafalgar has been bringing guests for over 50 years.

If you’re dreaming of experiencing this spiritual encounter of a lifetime in 2022, the time to book is now. Discover our range of European trips that include the Oberammergau Passion Play and get in touch with our friendly team to arrange your 2022 adventure.

GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Germany with Oberammergau

Tell us about your favourite Europe Easter tour or travel destinations in the comments below… 

Want to hear more from us?

Sign up to receive inspiring travel articles, offers & news

" * " indicates required fields

Privacy Overview

Sign up for our emails.

More From Forbes

Ranked: the 18 best hidden gems in europe, according to a new report.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Looking for the best places to travel in Europe? So is the rest of the world.

As the summer season kicks into high gear across Europe, popular destinations are grappling with an influx of visitors. From Venice (which just started a controversial tourist tax ) to Spain’s Canary Islands (where the locals are planning mass protests against overtourism), iconic landmarks and locations are straining under the weight of record-breaking crowds.

So the new list of 2024’s Best Hidden Gems in Europe from European Best Destinations couldn’t come at a better moment.

A view of Primosten, Croatia, one of 18 hidden European gems revealed in a new report.

This new ranking shines a spotlight on 18 under-the-radar destinations that will whisk travelers away from the tourist throngs and into the heart of authentic European culture. The list is based on votes by more than one million travelers from 172 countries.

From secluded villages tucked away in the mountains to lovely untouched beach towns, these 18 hidden gems offer a glimpse into a world rarely seen by the average traveler.

View of Villajoyosa, Spain from above.

Sony Is Making A Truly Terrible Mistake With Helldivers 2 Update Sony Reverses Course

Google tests much needed google photos feature upgrade, ‘baby reindeer’: stephen king writes essay praising netflix stalker series, 1. villajoyosa, spain.

Experience a kaleidoscope of colors in Villajoyosa (which means “the jewellish town” in the Castilian language). Here, jewel-toned houses line the shores in a nod to the town’s seafaring heritage, overlooking crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.

Ares del Maestre, a hidden gem in Castellon, Spain.

2. Ares del Maestre, Spain

Perched atop a rocky hill, Ares del Maestre—built in the 1300s in the province of Castellon—offers panoramic views and centuries of Spanish history. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets and explore ancient castles.

Sand beach in front of old town of Primosten in Croatia.

3. Primosten, Croatia

In Primosten—set along Croatia’s Dalmation coast—you’ll find pristine beaches and azure waters. You can indulge in fresh seafood, stroll along waterfront promenades and discover why this coastal paradise is still Croatia’s best-kept secret.

Floating village Bokodi in Hungary at sunset.

4. Lake Bokodi, Hungary

On Lake Bokodi, an hour drive from Budapest, there’s a village of floating chalets that’s an Instagrammer’s dream. Some of the chalets are private (many belong to local fishermen), but others are open to visitors. Explore the winding waterways and unwind in the serenity of this hidden Hungarian gem.

View from the sea to park at Moomin world on a sunny summer day in Naantali, Finland.

5. Naantali, Finland

In Naantali, a little town in southwestern Finland, you can experience the whimsical, colorful world of the Moomins—quirky characters created by a Finnish author in 1945. This enchanting seaside town even has a theme park dedicated to the Moomins called Muumimaailma.

Bour village in the Faroe islands.

6. Bour, Faroe Islands

Discover the rustic charm of Bour, a tiny village on Vagar Island in the Faroe Islands (a remote Danish archipelago in the North Atlantic Ocean). Wander through verdant landscapes, marvel at panoramic ocean views and immerse yourself in this area’s timeless beauty.

Lighthouse and bunker in the sand dunes on the beach of Blavand, Denmark.

7. Blavand, Denmark

Blavand is a seaside Danish gem where wartime bunkers have been transformed into sculpted symbols of peace. Here, you can ride horseback along the wide, windswept beaches and explore coastal dunes.

View of the city of Ulm, a hidden gem in Germany.

8. Ulm, Germany

In Ulm—a small city on the banks of Germany’s Danube River—historic landmarks and modern amenities coexist in perfect harmony. Marvel at Gothic cathedrals, stroll along cobblestone streets and grab a bite to eat in the Fishermen’s Quarter, where restaurants and cafes are set in half-timbered houses. Just across the Danube is Neu-Ulm, which is part of Bavaria.

Boardwalks leading to a viewing platform on the beach of Bordeira in southwest Alentejo, Portugal.

9. Aljezur, Portugal

With its rugged Algarve coastlines and golden beaches, Portugal’s Aljezur has a laid-back vibe and a tranquil beauty. Don’t miss the local wines.

The view of Dartlo Village in Tusheti, a remote region of Georgia.

10. Dartlo, Georgia

Dartlo—a remote Georgian village—is the crown jewel in the untamed mountainous Caucasus landscape. It’s home to pristine wilderness and ancient stone towers.

Jumping into the water in Castro Urdiales, Spain.

11. Castro Urdiales, Spain

Castro Urdiales is a medieval port town steeped in maritime tradition in the Cantabria region of Spain. Wander through cobblestone streets, check out the ancient fortresses and soak up the sun on sandy beaches.

Ljotipollur crater lake in Landmannalaugar, Iceland.

12. Landmannalaugar, Iceland

In Iceland, Landmannalaugar is recognized for its otherworldly beauty, full of rhyolite mountains and steaming hot springs. It’s also a haven for outdoors lovers, thanks to its volcanic landscapes.

First folk architecture reserve in the world in Cicmany, Slovakia.

13. Cicmany, Slovakia

The Slvoakian town of Cicmany is like a fairytale, where narrow streets are lined with hand-painted houses and ancient traditions like folk art are being preserved.

Road to Mount Pico in the Azores.

14. Pico Island, Azores

In the volcanic paradise of Pico Island in the Azzores, you’ll find dramatic landscapes, lava caves and vineyard-covered hillsides with world-class wines.

The village of Pont-en-Royans, France.

15. Pont-en-Royans, France

In France, Pont-en-Royans is a pretty cliffside village where you can swim in the crystal-clear river and soak up panoramic views of the countryside.

Schwebebahn Train crossing a street in Wuppertal, Germany.

16. Wuppertal, Germany

Wuppertal is an industrial German city with a unique attraction: the iconic Schwebebahn, a suspended monorail built in 1901 that offers breathtaking views of the urban landscape. Fun fact: This is the oldest electric elevated railway with hanging cars in the world.

Saint Michel d'Aiguilhe chapel sitting on a rock in Le Puy en Velay, France.

17. Le Puy-en-Velay, France

In the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of south-central France, Le Puy-en-Velay is a place that’s steeped in history: It’s the gateway to the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route. One of the highlights is St-Michel d’Aiguilhe, a 10th century chapel perched on a volcanic rock.

Staithes, a seaside village in the Scarborough borough of North Yorkshire, England.

18. Staithes, England

A former fishing center on North Yorkshire’s dramatic coastline, Staithes now attracts modern-day travelers, who come for the charming village, fresh seafood and natural beauty. Don’t miss the North York Moors National Park, where you can hunt for fossils and explore coastal trails.

MORE FROM FORBES

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Love Exploring

59 European Places You NEED To Visit In Your Lifetime

Posted: December 15, 2023 | Last updated: December 15, 2023

Europe's unmissable sights

For such a small continent, Europe certainly punches above its weight. There are countless things to see, do, eat, learn and admire here – from historic neighborhoods to natural wonders. Read on to discover 59 European places you should definitely add to your bucket list.

Go on a polar adventure in Svalbard, Norway

Svalbard is the final frontier before the North Pole and one of the world's northernmost inhabited areas. A place of dramatic landscapes, it’s perfect for observing the mesmerizing Northern Lights throughout winter, while summers bring perennial sunlight. As one of Europe’s last true wildernesses, it’s also great for spotting Arctic foxes and polar bears.

Visit Santa Claus Village in Lapland, Finland

Located in Rovaniemi in the Arctic Circle, the Santa Claus Village is the “official residence” of Santa and his helpers. Visit the post office and write your wishlist, or stop by the Santa Claus office to meet the mythical man himself. With its Christmassy shops, snow hotel and a year-round festive atmosphere, even adults will believe in the magic.

See the chateaux of the Loire, France

More than 300 castles are dotted throughout the Loire Valley, and many of them are open to the public. Don’t miss the chance to visit one of the most exquisite: the 16th-century Chateau de Chenonceau. If you come to this picturesque region during the summer, you'll catch the captivating sound-and-light shows put on at many of the chateaux.

Hike in England’s Lake District, UK

Lace up your hiking boots and discover how the beauty of the Lake District – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – inspired William Wordsworth to write his sublime poetry. Follow in the footsteps of Alfred Wainwright, the intrepid hiker whose Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells is still required reading more than 70 years after he first started writing it. Whether you walk his signature routes or blaze your own trail, the majesty of the Cumbrian countryside won't fail to blow you away. Don't miss Bassenthwaite, Wastwater and Derwentwater, some of the prettiest lakes in the national park.

Climb the Three Towers in San Marino

Looming high above one of Europe’s smallest countries, the Three Towers are located on a trio of Monte Titano's peaks and used to serve as fortification during medieval times. Today only two towers are open to the public; when you reach the top of the highest tower, the Guaita fortress, you’ll be enchanted by sweeping views in all directions. San Marino is surrounded entirely by Italy and doesn't have its own airport or train station, so the Italian city of Rimini is your gateway to this elusive microstate.

Take a road trip in Iceland

For an unforgettable road trip, tackle some or part of the 828 miles that make up Iceland’s Ring Road. Leave at least 10 days to get to know some of the country’s most scenic spots. You'll go right past the huge blue-and-white expanse of the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, as well as the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, whose thundering cascade you can walk behind – just remember to pack your waterproofs.

Explore Andalucia's white villages, Spain

For a break from the beach crowds along the Costa del Sol, head into the mountainous countryside of Andalucia. Take a tour of the interior’s white villages, called pueblos blancos. One of the prettiest is Zahara de la Sierra, which overlooks a giant reservoir and features the remains of a Moorish fortress clinging to the mountainside.

Get musical in ABBA the Museum, Stockholm, Sweden

Fans of Sweden’s most famous musical exports can find out how Agnetha, Anni-Frid, Bjorn and Benny rose to fame in this fun museum. Listen to the fab foursome's memories of how they put Swedish pop music on the map, and see how you would look in their fantastically spangly costumes. Singing and dancing aren’t obligatory, but hard to avoid.

Hit the slopes in Grandvalira, Andorra

Feast on khinkali in Tbilisi, Georgia

Originating from the Caucasus mountain regions, khinkali are filled dumplings that you’ll find in every traditional Georgian kitchen. Most commonly they’re filled with a mix of spiced beef and pork mince with fried onions, but the fillings can range from mushrooms to various combinations of different vegetables. You'll find some of the best in Georgia's capital Tbilisi, at joints like Cafe Daphna and Amo Rame Bani. Eat the khinkali with your hands and try to slurp up the hearty broth inside without spilling a drop.

Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens of Paris, France

Pull up a green chair and chill out in one of Paris ’ most elegant green spaces. Kids will love racing toy boats on the ornamental pond in front of the 17th-century Luxembourg Palace. Stroll through woods and past elaborate fountains and elegant statues. Play a round of tennis if you're feeling active – if not, exercise the brain with a game of chess.

Visit Lisbon’s Bairro Alto, Portugal

Portugal’s capital has an enchanting old town, filled with cobbled streets and vintage trams that trundle through its historic quarter. Lisbon ’s layout harks back to its Moorish past, with narrow lanes and twisting alleyways. The old town is one of the liveliest parts of the city, with plenty of restaurants and bars where you can listen to the haunting sounds of fado, Portugal's Unesco-inscribed traditional music.

Hike along the Princes’ Way, Liechtenstein

Visit Rome's Pantheon, Italy

Rome is full of ruins, but the wondrous construction that is the Pantheon has been standing intact since AD 128. You can’t help but marvel at the coffered dome and its oculus that lets the light (and rain) in. It's one of Rome's most beautiful buildings, having started life as a Roman temple before becoming a Catholic basilica. As of July 2023, you have to pay for a ticket to peek inside – look out for the tombs of two Italian kings, Vittorio Emanuele II and Umberto I.

Explore Bergen, Norway

Norway’s second-largest city is in a breathtaking location surrounded by seven towering mountains and impossibly deep fjords. Stroll along Bergen's old wharf past brightly colored wooden houses, and hop on a ferry for a tour of the fjords. A visit to the fish market will whet your appetite for fresh seafood in the city's waterside restaurants.

Listen to live music in Galway, Ireland

Take a ride in Copenhagen's Tivoli Gardens, Denmark

Flop on western Algarve beaches, Portugal

You’ll find some of Portugal’s best beaches along this western strip of the Atlantic coast. Look out for Praia do Martinhal, one of the region’s most appealing beaches. It's one of the gentlest, as it's sheltered from the full force of the Atlantic's waves by the promontory at Sagres. It's only 90 minutes from the nearest airport at Faro, but it's a world away from the busier resorts of the eastern Algarve.

Ride a pedal boat through Amsterdam, Netherlands

Take the train from Koblenz to Mainz, Germany

Taste the tapas of San Sebastian, Spain

This northern Spanish city is famed for its delicious tapas – known as pintxos in the local Basque language. Take a slow bar crawl through the old town, nibbling these morsels of ham, seafood, cheese or olives along the way. They're either on bits of bread or on toothpicks, which you then tot up to find out how much to pay. Don't miss the Playa de la Concha, one of the loveliest city beaches in Europe.

Visit Bruges’ offbeat museums, Belgium

Three of Belgium’s most prized products – fries, chocolate and beer – get their own museum. At the Bruges Beer Experience, reward yourself with a craft brew in the museum's taproom after taking a tour. At Choco-Story, you'll discover the fascinating history of chocolate and see how it's made. And as you wander through the Frietmuseum, the smell of fried potatoes will eventually lead your nose to the museum's cafe.

See Berlin’s East Side Gallery, Germany

There isn’t much left of the Berlin Wall, but there’s a stretch in old East Berlin that's become the longest open-air gallery in the world and shouldn’t be missed. Check out the graffiti and street art mocking just about everything from politics to industrialisation. It's right on the edge of Kreuzberg, still one of Berlin's hippest districts after all these years.

Catch the best view of Venice, Italy

Leave the crowds of Piazza San Marco behind and hop on a vaporetto (water bus) to the island of San Giorgio Maggiore. The church’s bell tower (currently closed for maintenance) typically allows you to see the best views of Venice – and there’s even a lift to the top. Elsewhere, use the vaporetto to explore some of Venice's lesser-known districts, including Giudecca and the studenty part of Dorsoduro.

Go shopping in Monte Carlo’s Carre d’Or, Monaco

Watch Prague’s astronomical clock, Czechia

For more than 600 years, this mechanical marvel by Prague’s Old Town Hall has been putting on a performance every hour. Watch the procession of Apostles and statues as they mark each hour in mesmerizing style. You can catch it every hour on the hour from 9am until 11pm. While you're there, don't miss a visit to the dazzling interior of the Old Town Hall, a complex of several Gothic buildings.

Visit Riga’s old town, Latvia

Latvia’s capital is a pleasure to explore, particularly Riga’s old town on the Daugava River’s eastern side. Walk along cobbled streets admiring the magnificent medieval and Baroque architecture before taking in the views from the top of St Peter’s Church tower. Because the tower soars to 425 feet, you'll have splendid vistas of the old town's crenelated roofs, the historic zeppelin hangars that now house Riga Central Market and the uber-modern National Library of Latvia across the water.

Soak in Budapest’s spas, Hungary

Explore Kazimierz Jewish Quarter in Krakow, Poland

Go hiking in the Tatra Mountains, Slovakia

The Tatra Mountains form a natural border between Slovakia and Poland, and feature more than 90 lakes and 35 valleys. Keen hikers can join a hut-to-hut guided tour and keep an eye out for wildlife, including lynx and bears. The town of Poprad is a handy starting point for guided or self-guided walks, as it's right by Tatry-Poprad airport.

See the art in London's National Gallery, England, UK

It’s one of the world’s finest art galleries – and as it’s free, it’s one of London ’s best bargains. The National Gallery’s huge collection covers everything from 13th-century paintings to works from the early 20th century. Among the 2,300-odd artworks are some of the world's best-known paintings, including Van Gogh's Sunflowers and Van Eyck's Arnolfini Portrait.

Stop for a coffee in Vienna’s coffeehouses, Austria

Visit the Acropolis in Athens, Greece

Enjoy Ljubljana’s riverside cafes, Slovenia

Slovenia’s capital is one of the most visually appealing in Europe; a harmonious blend of Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture – not to mention an attractive string of cafes and bars along the Ljubljanica River. Some of the bars suit certain times of the day: for example, the ones along Petkovskovo nabrezje are the buzziest at happy hour. On hot summer days, head south to the large grassy area of Spica.

Eat oysters in Mali Ston, Croatia

Take a boat ride on Loch Lomond, Scotland, UK

Get the best view of Loch Lomond from the vantage point of a boat – anything as simple as a pedal boat to a large speedboat with its own skipper. Stop for a walk on a lake island or a lochside village. Loch Lomond forms part of the Trossachs National Park, the place to "bag some Munros" – walk up a Scottish mountain that's higher than 3,000 feet. You've got 21 here to choose from. Alternatively, explore Scotland by cruise ship – its coastline and islands make for an epic seafaring adventure.

Visit Kotor, Montenegro

Visit the old town of Vilnius, Lithuania

Allow plenty of time to explore the fascinating old town of Vilnius – it’s one of the largest intact medieval old towns in Europe, an enchanting mishmash of all sorts of architectural styles, from Gothic to Neoclassical. But Baroque is the king here, including the imposing 17th-century St Casimir's Church. For superb views, climb the 193 wooden steps to the top of St John's Church bell tower.

Lose yourself in Sarajevo’s Ottoman Quarter, Bosnia-Herzegovina

The Ottomans founded Sarajevo in the 15th century, and you can still see the strong Turkish legacy in the Bosnian capital’s old Bascarsija quarter. It’s like a mini Istanbul, with souk-like stalls squeezed in among cafes and silversmiths and coppersmiths working their metals in tiny workshops. You'll spot their little coffee pots in cafes, whose Turkish coffee – called bosanska kava – will keep you going for hours.

Ride a boat through Gothenburg’s waterways, Sweden

Visit Beyoglu in Istanbul, Turkey

Once you’ve seen Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Istanbul’s other landmarks in Sultanahmet, head across the Golden Horn to Beyoglu. The district's Istiklal Street is one of the liveliest and most cosmopolitan in the city. Check out the little side alleyways where jazz clubs lurk in spaces hardly larger than cubbyholes.

Come to Lake Bled, Slovenia

Slovenia's Lake Bled really does look like something out of a fairy tale. There’s even a medieval castle perched atop the lakeside cliffs. Rising from an islet in the centre of the lake is the Baroque-style Church of the Assumption and its striking bell tower. Once you ride to the island on a wooden boat called a pletna, tradition has it that you should climb the 99 stone steps to the top of the church tower and ring the bell yourself.

Visit Symi, Greece

It’s hard to choose among Greece’s 227 inhabited islands, but if you have to pick one, go for Symi. This small Dodecanese island has one of the prettiest ports, a riot of colorful houses tumbling to the water’s edge – not to mention excellent beaches. On the days when it's too hot to hike to the beach, just take a water taxi from Symi harbor.

Explore Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, Cyprus

Join the party on Belgrade’s floating nightclubs, Serbia

Explore Gozo's Ggantija Temples, Malta

Visit Zermatt and the Matterhorn, Switzerland

Explore Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Walk across the Stari Most of Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Wander through Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands

Prepare to be dazzled by the extraordinary Keukenhof. More than seven million tulips and other brightly colored flowers spread across this sprawling garden that’s only about an hour from Amsterdam. But you'll have to time your visit carefully – because it's a celebration of spring flowers, the park is open only from March to May. 

Discover Ohrid, North Macedonia

Head to Snowdonia, Wales, UK

The biggest mountain in Wales and England stands at a whopping 3,650 feet, but there are many ways of exploring Snowdonia National Park without hardcore hiking. Its footpaths suit all levels – or you can just take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit. But it's not just mountains here – the park includes nearly 200 miles of seashore, with sandy beaches and sheltered coves.

Explore Berat, Albania

Wander through Tallinn’s old town, Estonia

Stroll along Varna’s Black Sea waterfront, Bulgaria

Urbane Varna stands out from Bulgaria’s Black Sea beach towns as it’s a port city and naval base as well as a resort. There’s plenty of room along its waterfront promenade for sunbathing, as well as a large selection of bars and restaurants. Afterwards, you can cool off in the lushness of the 19th-century Primorski Park.

Walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls, Croatia

Allow at least two hours for a wander around the medieval and Renaissance fortifications circling Dubrovnik’s cookie-colored old town. Get a snapshot of Dubrovnik life as you walk past courtyard gardens, laundry-lined balconies and terracotta rooftops. The walls are extremely popular with cruise-ship crowds that descend in their thousands, so try to time your visit for as early in the morning or as late in the afternoon as possible. A ticket for the city walls will also grant you access to Fort Lovrijenac, across the bay from the historic centre.

Spend a weekend in Dresden, Germany

Located near the German border with Czechia, Dresden has collected its fair share of nicknames over the years, including Florence on the Elbe and the Jewel Box. The world almost lost it forever during the Second World War, when it was bombed into near-oblivion. But this dazzling Saxon city has since been reborn and is full of world-class museums, lavish palaces, onion-domed churches and arty hotspots ready to welcome discerning visitors.

Get back to nature in the Faroe Islands, Denmark

Learn Belfast’s nautical history, Northern Ireland, UK

The story of the Northern Irish capital is inextricably linked to that of the world’s most tragic ocean liner. Built on Belfast’s slipways, the RMS Titanic began life here before sailing into Southampton for that ill-fated maiden voyage. Today, the waterfront Titanic Quarter of the city exists to further connect the dots of this maritime history, featuring unmissable maritime-themed attractions like the immersive Titanic Belfast museum.

Now discover the story of Titanic's lesser-known sister ship

More for You

Average US annual salary by age revealed – see how you compare

'Wonder Woman' stuntwoman Jeannie Epper dead at 83

19 Things People Treat As Safe That Actually Are Pretty Dangerous

We Ordered 7 Fast-Food Breakfast Sandwiches to Find the Best One

18 Snacks to Keep Away From Your Dog at All Costs

This American Engine Produces The Most Horsepower Per Liter

The #1 sitcom of all time isn't 'Seinfeld,' 'Friends,' or 'The Office,' according to data. See the top 100.

This is the salary it takes to be considered rich in every state

Doctor shares what happens to our bodies moments before we die

45 Desserts from Around the World

Dua Lipa Wore the Tallest Platforms We’ve Ever Seen to Perform in the Rain

11 Facts You Should Know About Hard-Boiled Eggs

Twin Films: 25 Times When Hollywood Made the Same Movie Twice

15 Jobs That Pay Insanely Well

College softball rankings: 2024 NCAA Top 25 poll

Your senses will shut down in a specific order when you’re about to die

‘They did not inherit money’: Dave Ramsey says all Americans have ‘a shot’ at being millionaires — but people in these 5 professions stand the best chance

The most popular dog breed in the US isn't a lab anymore, data shows. See the top 100.

A.I. Predicts What 20 Popular Cars Might Look Like in 100 Years

Archaeologists Found a Smoking Gun Behind the End of the Maya Kingdom’s Reign

Ukraine-Russia war latest: Putin more confident than ever after inauguration speech; plot to 'kill Zelenskyy' stopped

Vladimir Putin has been officially sworn in as Russian president for a new six-year term, although many Western nations did not attend. The ruler seems more confident than ever. Elsewhere, Ukraine says it has foiled a plot to kidnap and kill President Zelenskyy.

Tuesday 7 May 2024 19:09, UK

• Putin sworn in again as president | Claims Russia would work with West
• 'We elect our president': Kremlin defends 'purely democratic' Russia
• Ivor Bennett analysis: Painted as a modern-day Tsar, Putin seems more confident than ever
• Plot to 'kidnap and kill Zelenskyy' stopped, Ukraine says
• Many nations boycott Putin's inauguration ceremony
• Putin has 85% approval rating - here's why
• Big picture : What you need to know as a new week begins
• Your questions answered: Why can't Ukraine destroy key Crimean bridge?
• Live reporting by Lauren Russell  and Ollie Cooper

We're pausing our live coverage of the war in Ukraine for the time being - thanks for tuning in.

Before you go, here is a recap of today's developments.

• Vladimir Putin was officially sworn in again as Russian president, marking the start of his fifth term in office;
• During his inaugural speech, Mr Putin said he is willing to work with the West, but it is down to them to cooperate with Russia;
• Two people have been arrested after Ukraine's intelligence agency foiled a plot to assassinate President Volodymyr Zelenskyy;
• The widow of former Putin critic Alexei Navalny criticised Mr Putin on the day of his inauguration calling him a murderer and a liar.

By Ivor Bennett , Moscow correspondent

Held inside the throne room of the Tsars, the ceremony felt almost like a coronation rather than an inauguration.

And that was part of the point. The symbolism was key.

Andreyevsky Hall, where Vladimir Putin took the oath of office, is dripping with gold. 

It oozes power. 

I think this was an attempt to paint him as a modern-day Tsar, who is the rightful ruler of Russia.

The other aim was to add the stamp of electoral legitimacy to his leadership, and his policies. 

The Kremlin’s chief spokesman Dmitry Peskov told me beforehand that this was just part of the "democratic" political process (see our 13.35 post).

The speech was typical Putin - talking up Russia's greatness, blaming the West for Moscow's isolation and doubling down on his current path of conflict abroad and a crackdown at home.

He said he ranks the safety of the Russian people "above all else".  

Translation - we're in this for the long haul. 

But whose fault is Russia’s status as a global pariah? 

Not ours, he said. 

This was all part of the Kremlin's narrative to portray the West as the aggressor, and Russia as the victim.

What might concern people both at home and abroad was the tone of the speech.

For example, he gave a thinly veiled warning that protest will not be tolerated, saying it’s important "not to forget the tragic price of internal turmoil", adding that Russia must be "absolutely resistant" to it.

And the last line: "We will overcome all obstacles and bring all our plans to life."

Vladimir Putin seems more confident than ever.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has said Europe needs to spend "big money" in order to prevent other powers in the world from "raising a hand against it". 

Speaking at a conference in the Polish city of Katowice, Mr Tusk called on European countries to take joint action to increase spending on defence by at least €100bn (£85bn).

"Europe must be prepared in the next dozen or so months and the entire next five years for a situation in which no power in the world will dare raise a hand against it," he said.

"Big money will move the war away from Europe's borders for a long time, perhaps permanently."

He also repeated the idea of building a common European air defence system - saying Europe has "more initiatives than real actions". 

Due to the war in Ukraine, Poland is strengthening its defence capabilities, allocating over 4% of its GDP.

Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, agreed Europe must spend more on defence and declared that if she remains in office for another term she will propose new defence projects.

A Russian national has been sanctioned in the UK, US and Australia for his alleged role as the creator of the most prolific ramsomware group in the world. 

The sanctions target Dmitry Khoroshev who has been identified as one of the leaders of LockBit, the ransomware group responsible for extorting over $1bn from thousands of victims globally. 

In the US, Khoroshev has been charged with 26 counts of allegedly developing and administering a malicious cyber scheme.

The UK's foreign office said the LockBit group was behind attacks on over 200 UK businesses and major public server providers and 25% of all global ransomware attacks. 

Pro-Russian Chechen forces are baring the brunt of the frontlines in Ukraine and training Russian troops behind the scenes, the UK's Ministry of Defence says.

Around 9,000 personnel are currently serving within the Pro-Russian Chechen forces in Ukraine, which has been pushed back onto the frontline since the withdrawal of Russia's private military company, Wagner, the MoD said in its daily intelligence update. 

At the start of the Ukraine war in 2022, Chechen forces became known as "TikTok troops" for their presence on social media.

But, they have since provided personnel and given training to Russians at The Special Forces University in Gudermes, Chechnya. 

The MoD said troops receive up to 10 days' training at the so-called university. 

Chechnya has historically always supported Russia's military action in Ukraine.

Ukraine and Russia have accused each other of using banned toxins on the battlefield. 

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which is in The Hague, said that all accusations were "insufficiently substantiated".

But it added: "The situation remains volatile and extremely concerning regarding the possible re-emergence of use of toxic chemicals as weapons." 

Neither side has asked the OPCW to investigate the alleged use of chemical weapons.

Last week, Russia denied allegations from the US that it had used the choking agent chloropicrin against Ukrainian troops and utilised riot control agents "as a method of warfare".

Under the Chemical Weapons Convention, any toxic chemical used with the purpose of causing harm or death is considered a chemical weapon.

We've been covering the fifth inauguration of Vladimir Putin as Russian president.

The ceremony took place in Moscow's Grand Kremlin Palace, and our correspondent Ivor Bennett was there to experience the entire event.

He also interviewed Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov about the state of democracy in Russia and the lack of opposition during the presidential election back in March.

Bennett asked Mr Peskov: "Western leaders and Western governments believe that Vladimir Putin has turned Russia into a dictatorship, why do you think that’s not the case?"

Mr Peskov replied: "This is not the case.

"It's just propaganda, it's rough propaganda, nothing else."

He went on to say Russia was "purely democratic", adding: "We choose our power. We elect our power. We elect our president. We vote for the president or don’t want to vote for the president.

"And we insist that we have the right to do it the way we want to do it.

"And we don’t want a third country to interfere in our choices, in our preferences."

Pressed on whether the lack of opposition to Vladimir Putin in Russia was democratic, Mr Peskov said: "But there is opposition inside the country, of course the conditions are much tougher here because we are in war conditions."

Mr Peskov used the word "war" twice in the interview - typically, the Kremlin refers to its invasion of Ukraine as a "special military operation" - a term he also used once.

Ivor Bennett then asked if it was even more important for the public to have the right to speak out in wartime.

"No, to the contrary. It needs tougher measures to ensure the victory, to ensure that we reach our goals," Mr Peskov replied.

Asked whether this was democratic, Mr Peskov insisted: "It is, it is."

He added that the Western media in Europe and the US exists in the "same circumstances".

Dozens of demonstrators gathered outside The Hague's Peace Palace in The Netherlands to protest the inauguration of President Vladimir Putin. 

The protesters, many of whom had travelled from Germany, carried a giant carnival float that showed a caricature of the Russian leader with blood on his hands in a striped prison uniform.

They also held Ukrainian flags and placards saying: "Putin to The Hague" - which is the home of the International Court of Justice.

Dina Musina, who works for a Berlin-based charity that supports Russian prisoners, said they need to "raise awareness about Putin's crimes internationally".

A plot to assassinate President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been uncovered by Ukraine's state security service (SBU).

The SBU claimed two agents who were posing as Ukrainian state guard servicemen were tasked by Moscow to figure out a way to capture Mr Zelenskyy and later kill him. 

They also planned to kill other high-ranking Ukrainian officials, the SBU said in a statement on Telegram . 

Head of the SBU, Vasyl Malyuk, described the plot as a "gift to Putin before the inauguration".

The SBU said two suspects have been detained after an investigation gradually documented their alleged criminal actions.

Ukrainian claims that plots to kill Mr Zelenskyy are not new. 

The president said in 2022 there had been at least 10 attempts to assassinate him since the start of the war.

The widow of former Putin critic Alexei Navalny has criticised President Vladimir Putin on the day of his fifth inauguration as Russian leader. 

In a video posted on YouTube shortly before the ceremony took place in Moscow, Yulia Navalnaya called Mr Putin a liar, a thief and a murderer. 

She added that the war in Ukraine is "bloody and senseless" and no one wants it apart from the Russian leader.

"Huge sums of money are stolen from all of us every day to fund bombings of peaceful cities, riot police beating people with batons, propagandists spreading lies. And also for [the elite's] own palaces, yachts and private jets," she said.

"And as long as this continues, we can't stop the fight."

Having been exiled from Russia, Ms Navalnaya has vowed to continue the work of her late husband, who died in an Arctic penal colony on 16 February. 

She has accused Mr Putin of having him killed, an accusation which the Kremlin has always denied.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free