Easter is that magical time of year when the world begins to thaw, flowers bloom, and the days stretch a little longer. Whether you’re dreaming of a European city break, a warm island retreat, or a culture-rich adventure, Easter offers the perfect excuse to pack your bags and chase a little sunshine.
Here are five stunning destinations that shine during the Easter break — each offering its own mix of beauty, relaxation, and festive spirit.
1. Paris, France – Blossoms, Bistros & Beautiful Boulevards
Paris in spring is pure romance. The city awakens under a canopy of cherry blossoms, café terraces buzz with life, and the Seine sparkles in the soft sunlight. It’s also an ideal time to visit before the summer crowds descend.
Why go: Mild weather, spring blooms, Easter markets, and the chance to enjoy croissants in the sun.
Don’t miss: The cherry trees at Parc de Sceaux, the view from Montmartre, and a day trip to Disneyland Paris for some family fun.
Travel tip: Book early, Easter weekend is popular with both locals and tourists.
2. The Canary Islands, Spain – Endless Spring
If you’re craving warmth, the Canary Islands are your best bet. With year-round sunshine and temperatures around 25°C, Easter feels like summer without the high-season rush.
Why go: Golden beaches, volcanic landscapes, and relaxed coastal towns.
Don’t miss: Hiking Mount Teide in Tenerife, snorkelling off Lanzarote, and tasting local papas arrugadas (salted baby potatoes).
Travel tip: Each island has its own charm, Tenerife for adventure, Lanzarote for art and nature, Gran Canaria for variety.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Tulip Time Magic
Easter in the Netherlands coincides with tulip season, fields of colour stretch as far as the eye can see. Amsterdam comes alive with canal cruises, open-air cafés, and Easter festivals.
Why go: The perfect blend of culture, charm, and colour.
Don’t miss: The Keukenhof Gardens, cycling through the tulip fields, and visiting the Van Gogh Museum.
Travel tip: Stay outside the city centre (like Haarlem or Zaandam) for quieter, cheaper accommodation.
4. Antalya, Turkey – Sun, Sea & Ancient Stories
Turkey’s southern coast is warm but not scorching at Easter, a dreamy blend of beach relaxation and ancient history. Antalya’s old town, Kaleiçi, is packed with cobbled lanes, Ottoman architecture, and seaside cafés.
Why go: Great weather, affordable resorts, and incredible heritage sites.
Don’t miss: The Roman theatre of Aspendos, waterfalls of Düden, and a sunset dinner along the old harbour.
Travel tip: Pack for mixed weather, beach days by day, a light jacket for evenings.
5. Lisbon, Portugal – Pastel Perfection
Portugal’s capital has that rare mix of laid-back energy and cultural charm. Pastel-coloured buildings climb steep hills, trams clatter past tiled façades, and pastel de nata (custard tarts) tempt at every corner.
Why go: A gentle climate, affordable prices, and rich history.
Don’t miss: Exploring the Alfama district, visiting the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra, and catching a sunset at Miradouro da Senhora do Monte.
Travel tip: Lisbon’s hills are steep, wear comfy shoes and ride Tram 28 for the scenic route!
Planning Your Easter Escape
- Book early: Easter is a peak travel weekend worldwide.
- Pack for layers: Spring weather can swing from sunny to cool.
- Seek local flavour: From hot cross buns in London to chocolate festivals in Belgium, Easter brings delicious traditions everywhere.
- From New Zealand: Europe may be a long haul, but many of these destinations pair perfectly with a stopover in Singapore, Dubai, or Japan.
Wherever You Wander
Easter is more than a long weekend, it’s a chance to pause, recharge, and rediscover the joy of travel. Whether you’re sipping rosé under Parisian blossoms or watching the sun dip behind Lisbon’s hills, a springtime escape might be exactly what your soul needs.
