Already thinking about a Spring holiday in 2026? It’s hard not to with the Winter chill setting in. If you find your mind daydreaming of beach days and culinary delights somewhere warmer, this list should give you plenty to mull over. Plus, you don’t need to travel too far to enjoy them, with Europe brimming with Spring escapes you’ll want to book straight away.
The continent certainly comes alive with milder temperatures, early sunshine and scenery that feels completely transformed from Winter. Cities reopen their terraces, coastal regions start to warm up, and (as an added bonus) popular hotspots are far quieter than they will be just a few weeks later in Summer. It’s the ideal season for relaxed sightseeing, enjoying a scenic road trip and enjoying al fresco delights (Aperol Spritz anyone?).
Below are a few different options to consider dotted across Europe, with many just a short flight from Ireland. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your holiday planner and start adding these beautiful destinations to your list.
Quick Planning Tips Before Choosing A Destination
Before we go through some of Europe’s top Spring escapes, it’s best to start with a few reminders of the aspects of your trip you won’t want to forget. These are things that need planning before getting carried away with booking any day trips and adventures. A little early planning can make your 2026 getaway smoother and much better value.
- Starting with the practical side of travelling, make sure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy before you go, such as those from providers like Staysure, as it can help protect you against any last-minute changes, medical emergencies and unexpected disruptions while away. Look for the right level of cover that will ensure you have peace of mind throughout your trip, just in case the unexpected does happen.
- Spring often brings excellent flight deals from Ireland, but the most popular weekends tend to book up quickly, so it’s wise to secure your flights and accommodation well in advance. You can sometimes find good last-minute deals, but if you can plan and book further ahead, it’s always best.
- The weather can vary across Europe and not just in Ireland at this time of year, so packing light layers will help you stay comfortable whether you’re exploring a sunny coastline or a cooler coastal town.
- Check local travel advice for your destination before booking. You can search by destination in the Ireland.ie overseas travel advice pages whilst also checking whether your passport needs renewal. You can do this 24/7 on the website, but remember, if you do need to renew, then do this ASAP so that it arrives in time.
The Algarve, Portugal: Sun, Seafood and Coastal Calm
If having sunny, reliable Spring weather is high on your list, the Algarve won’t disappoint, offering warm temperatures and plenty of golden beaches to soak up the sun. Visiting in Springtime definitely provides a more relaxed experience, so you can enjoy coastal walks and numerous outdoor dining options without the larger crowds all wanting the same.
Towns like Lagos, Albufeira, Tavira and Lagoa feel lively but not overwhelming, giving you the chance to enjoy their charm without peak-season bustle. The latter has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, such as Praia da Marinha, where you can enjoy its famous ‘M’ shaped rock formation, so if lounging on the sands sounds like heaven, Lagoa has to be up there.
Seafood lovers are in for a treat as you would expect, as Spring brings fresh catches to local restaurants, best enjoyed with a glass of crisp wine in a beachfront café. Whether you want to explore dramatic cliffs, unwind on quiet coves or try a boat trip along the coast and see sights like the Benagil caves, the Algarve delivers in every way. Plus, if you’re into your golf, you’ll find the region has some fantastic courses to try too including Amendoeira Golf Resort.
Lake Como, Italy: Blossoms, Boats and La Dolce Vita
Spring is one of the most enchanting times to experience Lake Como, as the surrounding hills and waterfront villas really do burst into colour. By April, the lakeside gardens are in full bloom, creating a picture-perfect backdrop you could stare at for hours, the ideal setting for leisurely strolls and relaxed days spent exploring charming towns like Bellagio, Varenna and Menaggio.
The weather is comfortably mild in Spring, so it’s ideal for coffee in outdoor cafés, scenic viewpoints for plenty of photos, and wandering along Como’s elegant promenades. There is something for everyone, whether you want to visit the historic mansions including Villa Monastero and its botanical garden, or tour the lake by boat, which is always a highlight.
With fewer crowds and a welcoming early-season atmosphere, Lake Como feels like a true taste of Italian elegance, whatever you decide to do.
Seville, Spain: Europe’s Springtime Showstopper
Another solid choice for Spring is Seville, which begins to come alive again in March and April. The streets become heavy with the scent of orange blossom now that the days are getting longer, and with little rainfall, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors again. It is warm, but still comfortable during Springtime, and with fewer tourists around, you should be able to find some shade in a local bar or restaurant without issue.
Fewer crowds mean it’s also the perfect time to wander through the narrow lanes of historic Santa Cruz and visit Seville Cathedral, which is the world’s largest Gothic temple. Then soak up the sun in Plaza de España or enjoy an evening of tapas hopping in traditional Andalusian bars.
Spring is also festival season in Seville, with Semana Santa and the iconic Feria de Abril, otherwise known as the Seville Fair, bringing music, colour and celebration to the city. While these events will always draw visitors from across Europe, the atmosphere remains relaxed compared to the heat and busyness of the Summer. Also, don’t forget to go and see Alcázar, the historic royal palace and UNESCO world heritage site that’s always worth a visit.
The Swiss Riviera: Montreux, Vevey and Alpine Views
Have you considered Switzerland for your Spring trip? Perhaps not, but there is plenty that puts it high on the beauty list if you want a quieter, more refined Spring escape. The Swiss Riviera is perfect for those seeking tranquillity, and even a bit of luxury, stretching along the shores of Lake Geneva with towns like Montreux and Vevey enjoying a mild microclimate thanks to the shelter offered by the surrounding Alps. This means bright days and clear views of the mountains and comfortable temperatures. By April and May, walks by the lake are full of vibrant flowers, outdoor terraces to relax in and a generally fresh atmosphere. What could be better?
Montreux’s elegant waterfront is dotted with sculptures and palm trees, ideal for gentle walks where you can see historic Chateau Chillon almost balance itself in the lake, while Vevey’s old town has plenty of Swiss heritage and relaxed lakeside charm. As you can expect, you can take a scenic boat trip across the lake and take in alternative views of the Riviera from the water.
It’s certainly not the most popular destination, but the Swiss Riviera delivers a beautifully calming Spring break with some of the most striking scenery in Europe.
Copenhagen, Denmark: Colourful Streets and Cool Culture
Like Switzerland, Denmark may not be your first thought of Springtime adventure, but it offers something definitely worth considering, with Copenhagen a fine city to visit if you’re keeping your options open.
The Danish capital is lively with outdoor food markets, waterfront districts and cyclists filling the streets, with neighbourhoods like Nyhavn, Christianshavn and Vesterbro feeling especially vibrant at this time of year. Nyhavn is the 17th-century waterfront district that is famous for its colourful buildings, whilst Christianshavn offers café culture and canal boats, and lively Vesterbro has shopping, family fun, and lots to do in the evenings.
Spring is also a great time to enjoy Copenhagen’s parks and gardens, which begin to bloom with cherry blossoms and fresh greenery. King’s Garden is Denmark’s oldest royal garden and is next to Rosenborg Palace, whilst the Botanical Garden has the country’s largest collection of living plants. It’s not the warmest destination on the list, but Spring brings mild, comfortable temperatures and lots to see, perfect for those seeking culture and a city break.
Your 2026 Spring Adventure Awaits!
Spring is one of the best times of year to visit almost anywhere in Europe, so the above are just a snippet of great options to consider, all offering easy travel from Ireland’s main airports. If you need further information when planning your next trip, be sure to check the Know Before You Go page on the Department of Foreign Affairs website, which has lots of resources worth a read.
Hopefully, we’ve inspired you to book your ideal European escape well in advance, especially with 2025 nearly over. Now is the time to start mapping out your journey and looking forward to a Spring filled with discovery, sunshine and unforgettable moments.
