12 top European cities to visit in April
April is a great time to visit Europe. There’s warmer weather, and many places experience smaller crowds during the spring months, meaning you can see popular sights without the summer rush.
If you are looking for ideas for a trip around this time, there’s no shortage of great European cities to visit in April.
Below, you will find a collection of some of the best cities in Europe for an April visit. There are 12 European destinations here to inspire you!
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Best European cities to visit in April
London, England
London offers a mix of historic landmarks, modern attractions, top-class museums, and memorable experiences.
There are famous sites to visit such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament. There’s a river to sail along, Royal Parks to stroll through, and fantastic places to stop off for food and drink, and to partake in some retail therapy.
In fact, there is so much to see and do in London that you might struggle to decide on your shortlist, especially if you only have a few days to hand. If so, here are some of the top things to do in London on a short break.
Top things to do in London
– Visit the city’s palaces: there’s Buckingham Palace and Kensington Palace, as well as Hampton Court Palace, a short journey away
– Be wowed by the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London and look over to Tower Bridge
– Look out over the city from the London Eye and wander across the bridge to see the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey
– Go inside St. Paul’s Cathedral and climb up to the galleries
– Take a cruise along the River Thames
– Stroll through one of the city’s parks and gardens: there’s Hyde Park, St. James’ Park, Kensington Gardens, and Kew Gardens, among others
– Drink cocktails in the Shard, London’s tallest building, or in London’s highest public garden
– Visit one of the city’s fantastic museums
– Treat yourself to afternoon tea at the Ritz
– Go shopping on Oxford Street, in Covent Garden, or in Knightsbridge
Paris, France
Paris is one of the most visited cities in Europe, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful city and full of amazing sights.
Top of these is the iconic Eiffel Tower. Standing at over 1000 feet, it dominates the skyline and is one of the world’s most visited monuments.
The city has world-class museums to visit, as well as wonderful parks to picnic in, and a river to sail along. It is also within easy reach of other great places to visit.
In April, the weather is getting warmer. In addition, the city tends to be less crowded than in the peak season, so it is an ideal time to visit.
Below are some of the best things to do in Paris and the popular attractions to put on your itinerary.
Top things to do in Paris
– View the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower and wander around the Champs de Mars park
– See the famous landmarks from the river on a cruise down the River Seine
– Spend time in the Latin Quarter and cross the river to visit Notre-Dame Cathedral
– Stroll along the Champs-Elysées from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde
– Wander through the quaint streets of Montmartre and visit the beautiful Sacré-Coeur Basilica
– Visit one of the city’s incredible museums: options include The Louvre, the Musée D’Orsay and the Pompidou Centre
– Picnic in one of the city’s parks and gardens: places include the Jardin Du Luxembourg, the Jardin des Tuileries, and the botanical garden in the Jardin des Plantes
– Go out to Versailles Palace, take a tour inside, and then wander through the extensive gardens and park
– Day trip to the Loire Valley: visit some of the historical castles and sample the local wine
Berlin, Germany
Berlin, Germany’s capital city, is a beautiful and vibrant place with something to offer everyone looking for a fabulous city break in central Europe. It’s another of the great European cities to visit in April.
For history buffs, there are countless museums and historical sites to explore. Most significantly, you can visit the remnants of the Berlin Wall, see Checkpoint Charlie, and wander around the Brandenburg Gate.
And for those who enjoy spending time outdoors, Berlin has parks, walking tours, and a lovely river to sail along.
Check out the top things to do in Berlin below.
The top things to do in Berlin
– See the Brandenburg Gate, one of the most famous landmarks in Berlin, in Pariser Platz
– Go up to the observation deck in the Reichstag Building by the River Spree
– Stroll through the Tiergarten, Berlin’s largest park, see the Presidential Palace, and visit Germany’s oldest zoo
– Go to Checkpoint Charlie, one of the Berlin Wall’s border crossings, and visit the Wall Museum here
– Spend some time on Museum Island in the middle of the Spree, home to five world-class museums
– Get panoramic views of the city from the top of the Berliner Fernsehturm (the Berlin TV Tower) and grab some food in the revolving restaurant
– Learn more about the Holocaust in the Jewish Museum and pay your respects at the Holocaust Memorial
– Go on a boat tour along the River Spree to see some of the city’s famous landmarks from the water
– See street art and learn more about the Berlin Wall in the East Side Gallery
See my separate post for more information on the best places to visit in Berlin on a short break or day trip.
Oslo, Norway
Norway’s capital city in northern Europe is another popular destination for a city break. It has a wealth of attractions to suit visitors, regardless of their interests. As you explore it, you’ll find many historic buildings standing alongside iconic modern structures in the city and around the harbour area.
The city’s location by the Oslo fjord also makes it great for outdoor activities. Plus you can combine a trip here with spending time in the country’s second city, Bergen. Perhaps take a road trip or travel via the highspeed Bergen Railway, which is regarded as one of the world’s most scenic journeys.
Below you will find some of the top things to do in Oslo in April.
Top things to do in Oslo
– Explore central Oslo: see Oslo Cathedral, the Parliament Building, and the National Theatre
– Walk up to Slottsparken and see the Royal Palace
– Stroll along the Harbour Promenade and see the unique buildings in the central harbour area, including the City Hall and the striking Oslo Opera House
– Visit the Munch Museum to see the most extensive collection of Munch’s art anywhere
– See the incredible sculptures in Frogner Park, the largest park in central Oslo
– Have lunch in the Aker Brygge area
– Take the ferry to the Bygdog peninsula and visit one of the museums here
– Sail around the Oslofjord
– Go ski-ing in Holmenkollen or in the SNO Ski Dome
Click here for more information on things to do in Olso.
Bratislava, Slovakia
Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a perfect destination for a short break. Located on the banks of the Danube River, the city is relatively small, and most of the main attractions are in and around its picturesque old town.
With its sole surviving medieval fortification, Michael’s Gate, the old town is home to some important historic buildings and monuments, as well as a castle on top of a hill. In addition to its cultural attractions, there are quite a few old narrow streets to explore in this central area and some traditional Slovakian restaurants.
The fact that Bratislava is only just over 50 kilometres from Vienna means you could also, if you wanted to, combine a trip to both cities very easily.
Here are some of the top things to do in Bratislava on an April trip.
Top things to do in Bratislava
– Visit Bratislava Castle and learn about the country’s history
– See the beautiful interior of St. Martin’s Cathedral
– Wander around the old town and main square, and climb the Old Town Hall tower
– Walk up to the 14th century Michael’s Gate
– Go into the beautiful Primate’s Palace and see the Hall of Mirrors
– Walk to the unique Blue Church and explore the EUROVEA Waterfront complex
– See Slovakia’s Rococo-style Presidential Palace
– Look across the city from the UFO Tower observation deck
Corfu Town, Greece
Corfu Town (known in Greek as Kerkyra) is the capital of the Greek island of Corfu, one of the six Ionian islands in southern Europe. These are located in a more north-westerly part of Greece, a short hop from the southern Albanian coast.
This location in Greece makes it one of the more suitable islands for a short break (direct flights from London only take just over 3 hours).
So, if you want to have a fabulous city break in Greece, I’d recommended putting Corfu Town on your list. There’s lots to see and do in the city, and several fascinating places are just a short hop away.
And with average temperatures around 16 degrees Celsius, it’s a great place to head to for warm weather, especially if you visit in late April when temperatures rise higher than this.
Top things to do in Corfu Town
– Spend time in the old town, with its picturesque small streets, souvenir shops, and Saint Spiridon church.
– Have a drink on the Liston and wander around the Spianada park
– Go inside the Old Fort, and climb up to the lighthouse to look out over the city
– Visit one of the city’s fascinating museums
– Go out to Kanoni and walk to the tiny whitewashed monastery in the sea
– Visit Achilleion Palace and stroll through its opulent interior and garden overlooking the sea
– Swim off of Faliraki beach and get a fantastic view of the Old Fort
– Sample some Corfiot food, including the local kumquat liqueur
– Take a trip to another country: you can hop on a boat to Albania and explore further
Vilnius, Lithuania
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, offers a mix of history and culture that makes it ideal for a short break or one-day visit. The city’s compact size means you can easily cover its main attractions on foot and travel the short distance out to Trakai Castle, which sits on an island in a lake.
You could also combine a trip to Vilnius with visits to the other Baltic capitals of Tallinn and Riga.
Lithuania can be cold in the winter months, with temperatures dipping below zero in December and January. By the month of April, the weather will be milder which will make walking between the sights easier and more pleasant.
If you plan to visit Vilnius, you can find out more here. Below are the top things to do in Lithuania’s lovely capital.
Top things to do in Vilnius
– See the Gates of Dawn, the neo-classical Town Hall in the Town Hall Square, and the nearby Presidential Palace
– Stroll along Pilies Street, the oldest street in Vilnius
– Visit Cathedral Square and the elegant Vilnius Cathedral with its unique bell tower next to it that houses the city’s oldest clock
– Learn about Lithuania’s history in the Palace of the Grand Dukes of Lithuania
– Go up to Gediminas Tower and look out over the city
– Walk along Gediminas Avenue, see the historical buildings lining it, and visit the Museum of Occupations and Freedom Fights in the former KGB building
– Sail along the Neris River in a gondola or catamaran
– Visit a medieval castle on an island in the middle of lake
Funchal, Madeira
Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira, sits in the Atlantic Ocean south of the mainland of Portugal. It is a city with a beautiful old town, a rugged coastline, and a stunning background of hills and mountains. It’s another great place to visit in April.
There are plenty of things to do in Funchal, many of which are centred around its landscape and scenery.
Funchal has a charming old town, peaceful gardens, and lots of outdoor activities like hiking and whale watching. And with the mild temperatures – generally in the low 20s in Celsius in April – it’s a perfect time to make the most of the island.
Here are some of the main attractions in Funchal to put on your itinerary and top things to do in April.
Top things to do in Funchal
– Explore the old town with its pretty cobblestone streets, street art, cathedral, and museums
– Stretch your legs with a walk along the Avenida do Mar along the seafront and marina
– Ride the Funchal cable car for spectacular views across the island
– Try Madeira’s famous tipple in Blandy’s Wine Lodge
– Take a stroll in the Monte tropical garden and see Monte Palace and Swan Lake, with its plunging waterfall
– Visit the Madeira Botanical Garden and see the views from the hillside
– Ride the Madeira toboggan, a 2 kilometre ride in a huge basket!
– Listen to fado in a local bar
– Go dolphin and whale watching
Montpellier, France
Nestled in the heart of the south of France, Montpellier is an attractive and captivating city and another place worth visiting for a spring break. With a plethora of attractions, you can immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and stunning architecture.
It’s location also means it’s easy to day trip to other places. Avignon, with its magnificent Popes’ Palace, is around an hour by train.
Arles, with its ancient ruins and Roman Forum, is a similar journey away. Art lovers should consider a visit here, which was once home to Vincent Van Gogh.
And being just 11 kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea and with temperatures heading towards the 20s in Celsius, April is a good time to head out to the nearby beaches to chill out.
If you visit Montpellier in April, here are some of the top things for your itinerary.
Top things to do in Montpellier
– Explore the old town: stroll through with narrow medieval streets and small squares
– Have a drink outside in the grand and buzzy Place de la Comédie, and see the grand buildings here, the 18th century Opera House, and the street entertainers
– See the impressive neo-gothic architecture of the Saint Roch de Montpellier church.
– Climb up to the top of the city’s Arc de Triomphe, the Porte du Peyrou
– Stroll around the Place Royal du Peyrou with its water tower and views of the Aqueduc Saint-Clement
– Relax in France’s oldest botanical garden
– Go inside the city’s cathedral, with its unique porch and pillars
– View art in the Musée Fabre
– Head out to the beach for some rest and relaxation or to take part in some water sports
– Eat out in the Marché du Lez
Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the capital of Gran Canaria, one of the Canary Islands that sit off the northwestern coast of Africa.
Because of its location, it’s blessed with warm, sunny weather year-round. In April, temperatures are typically in the low 20s in Celsius, making it an excellent choice for a break during the spring season and one of the warmest places in Europe.
This is also arguably one of the best times of year to visit, before the temperatures rise in the summer months toward the late 20s and it gets more crowded in the high season.
Aside from making the most of the sunshine and chilling out on the nearby beaches, there’s plenty of things to do in Las Palmas. It’s a vibrant city with a rich history and lively cultural scene.
Below are the top things to do in Las Palmas.
Top things to do in Las Palmas
– Explore the historic Vegueta district, including the Casa de Colon, the cathedral, and the Plaza de Santa Ana
– Relax on Las Canteras beach and swim in the sea
– Try the local food and drink and pop into the local markets
– Make the most of the island’s waters: go on a cruise, or do some kayaking or paddleboarding
– Look out across the city and to the sea from the Mirador de Altavista
– Visit some of the nearby historical towns, such as Arucas and Firgas
– Go walking in an old volcano, the Bandera Caldera
San Marino
San Marino is a small independent and landlocked republic situated in northern Italy, around 15 kilometres from the Italian city of Rimini on the Adriatic Sea (45 minutes by bus).
It’s the fifth smallest country in the world, covering just 24 square miles – so if you want to visit somewhere unique, head here.
The City of San Marino is the capital. This is a medieval mountain top citadel looming imposingly over the countryside and Mount Titano below, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It might not be an obvious choice for a list of European cities to visit in April – but it’s a unique and fascinating place that is worth visiting.
Top things to do in San Marino
– Visit San Marino’s three towers that guard the outer defence walls of the fortress and look out over the surrounding countryside
– Wander around the small winding streets in the old town and see the 19th century basilica
– Soak up the atmosphere in the Piazza della Liberta and see the city’s Public Palace
– Visit one of the quirky museums here
– Catch the cable car down to the village of Borgo Maggiore, another UNESCO World Heritage Site
– Combine a trip to San Marino with spending time in Rimini
– Relax on one of the beaches on the Adriatic coast
Valletta, Malta
Valletta, Malta’s capital city, is a great destination, with fascinating history. There are many museums and churches, and stunning architecture throughout the centre. So much so, it’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You can learn more about the island’s unique history on a short break here. And the fact that Malta is the fifth smallest country in Europe (it’s only 121 square miles) means that on a trip to Valletta, it’s easy to see the main city sights, and take day trips to other parts of the island.
In April, temperatures are around 20 degrees Celsius, making it a great time of year to visit, with lots of warm sunny days.
Top things to do in Valletta
– Take in the stunning views across the Grand Harbour from the Upper Barrakka Gardens
– Sail across to the ‘Three cities’, fortified towns on the other side of the Grand Harbour, and visit the Inquisitor’s Palace
– Go inside the spectacular St John’s Co-Cathedral and see the famous Caravaggio paintings
– Visit the Grandmaster’s Palace, once home to the Grand Master, the head of the Knights of Malta
– Visit Fort St. Elmo and the National War Museum
– Wander through the old capital of the island, Mdina – or ‘The Silent City’ – so named because it’s now virtually deserted
– Island hop to nearby Gozo and Camino, the two other Maltese islands in the Mediterranean Sea
– Go to the harbour town of Marsaxlokk with its beautiful Church of our Lady of Pompeii and bustling Sunday market
Top European cities to visit in April
I hope the European destinations on my list inspire you. Whichever you choose, you’re bound to have a fantastic time.
See my website for more ideas for short breaks or day trips in Europe.
