Primetime for visiting cities all over the world is in the Spring! Warming weather, exciting festivals, and stunning blossoms here are the most incredible cities to visit this spring!
Banff, Canada
Located in western Canada’s scenic Rocky Mountain region is the town of Banff; an outdoor-lover’s paradise during any season, but especially so during springtime. It’s during these spring months that both locals and travelers alike breathe new energy into the town. As the hiking trails reopen, the glacial lakes thaw. And the vibrant main street is abloom with new, stunning floral growth.
Of course, there’s certainly no shortage of activities to keep you busy during this time of year. Take in a round of golf at one of the many world-class courses. Enjoy a relaxing soak at the Banff Upper Hot Springs (complete with a panoramic view of the surrounding alpine peaks!). Capture the beauty of the Canadian wilderness from the renowned Sulphur Mountain gondola. Or simply stroll through Banff’s lively shopping and culinary scene. You can’t go wrong with a visit to one of Banff’s iconic restaurants; Such as the Banff Ave Brewing Co for a house-made craft beer, the Mount Fairview Dining Room for an upscale, award-winning experience. Or JK’s Bakery & Cafe for more casual, artisanal bites.
Retire in the budget-friendly and conveniently located Fox Hotel. This is perfect if you’re looking to get a taste of Banff’s dynamic nightlife, or the luxury Banff Springs mountain resort; which is located in one of Canada’s most notable castles dating back to the late 1800s!
Recommended by: Natasha at Planes, Trains, and Karcz
Illinois, USA
Spring is the best time to visit Chicago because the city comes alive again after a long winter. Street festivals resume, Navy Pier brings back its weekly fireworks displays, and many restaurants reopen outdoor dining areas.
Twice weekly from spring through late fall, Navy Pier shoots off a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan. The start times change depending on sunset. Each Wednesday and Saturday anyone can enjoy this for free by showing up at one of Chicago’s premier tourist spots. Get there early to secure a good place to sit.
Choose a place with a great view of the city when taking advantage of Chicago’s outdoor dining opportunities. Breakfast at Lou Mitchell’s while overlooking the Willis Tower is one of the best options. Plus, visitors can easily stroll over to the tower’s Skydeck for 360 views of the city and lake after eating.
The Hampton Inn in Chicago’s Theater district is a good choice budget-friendly hotel. The entire area is centrally located to most tourist attractions. In addition, public transit is also located right nearby, to save visitors on overpriced cabs or rideshares. It’s also only a 10-15 minute walk from both the Willis Tower and Lou Mitchell’s.
Recommended by: Brodi at Our Off Beat Life
Colorado, USA
Without a doubt, one of the most incredible cities for spring is Breckenridge, Colorado. Not only is it one of the best mountain towns in Colorado where you can go skiing late into the season. But this urban oasis also hosts the annual Spring Fever Event from mid-March through Mid-April. During this exciting event, visitors can go on scavenger hunts, enjoy free concerts, or check out the area’s vibrant pub and brewery scene.
So, relax with a drink in hand on the patio of T-Bar before conquering the totally unique Imperial Challenge. It’s truly one of the best events in Colorado. Since racers get to bike into the mountains before taking a ski lift up the very top and then skiing back down.
And if that event isn’t exciting enough for you, you can always hike Mayflower Gulch. Or climb Mount Quandary to summit an incredible 14er.
Afterward, treat yourself to a beer at Broken Compass Brewing; Festive comfort food at Motherload Tavern, or some hearty, new American cuisine at Hearthstone Restaurant. If you opt for the latter, be sure to get the Navajo Fry Bread. And stop by for $3 beers during happy hour.
Finally, spend the evening inside a plush, well-appointed room at the Marriott’s Mountain Valley Lodge or splurge on a stay at Gravity house with its Japanese bathhouse.
Recommended by: Meg at Fox in the Forest
Arizona, USA
Page Arizona is a small city in Northern Arizona and is a great home base for exploring the beautiful southwest. It is an outdoor playground with so many wonderful activities and places to explore. You can easily take a day trip to the Grand Canyon which is only a few hours away. The Spring weather in Page is beautiful, making this a great time to visit.
Within the immediate area of Page, there are lots of fun things to do. Page sits on the southern shore of Lake Powell, a beautiful lake perfect for kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding. If you want to spend a lot of time at the lake; you can even rent a houseboat to stay on the water. It is also fun to walk around Glen Canyon Dam, the dam creating Lake Powell.
One of the best things to do in Page is to go on an Antelope Canyon tour. It is a beautiful slot canyon made of red sandstone walls that have a wave-like structure carved out by wind and water. The canyon is protected by the Navajo Parks and Recreation. So you do have to go on a tour to see the canyon but it is well worth it.
Another photogenic place to visit is Horseshoe Bend. It is one of the most photographed places in the southwest and for a good reason. It is a horseshoe-shaped bend in the Colorado River. There is a short hike to get to the bend.
Page is a pretty small town so there aren’t a lot of places to stay. One of the best choices is the Hyatt Place Page/Lake Powell. It has an outdoor pool and a free continental breakfast. It is in town making it close to the fun things to do like Antelope Canyon and Lake Powell.
Recommended by: Candice at CS Ginger
Hawaii, USA
Spring is a lovely time to visit Honolulu. Given that it’s Hawaii’s shoulder season, the prices of flights and accommodations are more affordable and crowds are thinner. Plus the temperature is pleasantly warm and, towards mid-April, the rainy spring skies clear to make way for the sun. You could spend a vacation enjoying Honolulu’s more cosmopolitan side, with its high-end shopping centers and resorts. But you’d be missing out on not diving into the city’s mixing pot of culture.
For example, sample some award-winning dishes at Helena’s Hawaiian Food. Or explore the confluence of Asian cultures that are prominently integrated into the city’s soul, like at Inaba Restaurant. And beyond just Honolulu’s urban side, no trip would be complete without experiencing its beaches and warm waters. Of course, Honolulu is home to the famed Waikiki Beach, a sprawling two-mile-long beach in the heart of the city that provides something for everyone. Great boogie boarding opportunities, calm lagoons for families, and some absolutely fantastic people watching. Want to get more up close and personal with Hawaii’s waters?
Check out Hanauma Bay Nature Reserve, located just 10 miles east of the city. This marine reserve, once a former volcanic crater, is now home to over 400 species of fish and offers some of the best snorkeling in Oahu. During your time in Honolulu, it can be great to stay within the action-packed Waikiki-area, like The Modern Honolulu; however, Honolulu- and Oahu, for that matter- is so much more than Waikiki, so be sure and get out to explore all the city has to offer.
Recommended by: Jessica at Uprooted Traveler
Oaxaca, Mexico
Oaxaca is a true hub of culture in Mexico thanks to its rich heritage, delicious cuisine, and wonderful culture.
Officially called Oaxaca de Juarez, Oaxaca is the capital of the Oaxaca State. The City boasts wonderful architecture and colorful streets where you can find tons of cool graffitis. By spring, the cold spell is over and you can explore Oaxaca streets without having to bundle up. And, if you get cold, make sure to stop at one of the local cafes to try signature Oaxaca hot chocolate. This hot drink is unlike anything you have ever tried in your life!
Spring is also an excellent time to explore some of the surrounding areas. There are many natural and hostia landmarks within 1-2 hours of Oaxaca such as archeological area Mitla. A stunning natural area Hierve El Agua as well as many artisan villages where you can see local artisans produce colorful textiles from scratch.
Spring is a great time to visit Oaxaca because it is the end of the busy winter season and prices on tours and accommodations are more budget-friendly than during the winter months.
And don’t forget to catch a bus (or a plane) to Oaxaca coast where you can find some of the best beaches in Mexico that offer world-class surfing and wonderful landscapes with a wide array of biodiversity.
Whether you decide to surf in Puerto Escondido, do some yoga in Mazunte or spoil yourself in one of the resorts in Bahías de Huatulco, you will get a sense of true paradise when you come here.
Recommended by: Daria at The Discovery Nut
Placencia, Belize
If you’re looking for the best cities to visit in the spring, then Placencia, Belize should be on your list! This once small fishing village in southern Belize is a great getaway in the springtime. With average temperatures in the upper 70’s and low 80’s, it’s practically perfect weather!
Immerse yourself in the nature and culture of Belize by visiting the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Mayflower Bocawina National Park, or taking a day trip to Xunantunich Mayan Ruins. Be sure to try a local favorite – fry jacks when in Belize.
With so many things to do in Placencia Belize, there are plenty of water activities, too. From snorkeling the incredible reef system to kayaking and swimming at Placencia Beach, you’ll love the sunny springtime weather to enjoy all that Placencia has to offer.
To get to Placencia, the most popular route is to fly into the Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City and rent a car. Placencia is located about 3 hours south of Belize City. Alternatively, you could fly into the small Placencia Airport from Belize City.
You won’t find large hotel chains in Placencia. Instead, look for villas or vacation properties. Try the Ocean Breeze Beach Resort located right on the beach, or Brisa Oceano Resort in town.
Recommended by: Nikki at She Saves She Travels
Medellin, Colombia
When looking for the best cities to visit during Spring; and you are planning on visiting the Americas, Medellin should be on your radar. The city is known for its spring-like weather. For that exact reason, many people refer to it as ‘the city of external spring’. In popular neighborhoods such as El Poblado, you’ll find some of the cites award-winning restaurants and hotels to suit a wide range of budgets.
Many travelers are fond of places such as The Click Clack Hotel. And the great selection of backpacker hostels which are on offer for those who are open to sharing rooms with other travelers. There are many educational day trips from Medellin you can do with the town of Guatapé being the most popular. Landmarks such as The Museum of Modern art, Botero Plaza, and Pueblo Paisa all make great tourist attractions in the city. Plus you can visit them all within the day.
Medellin is well connected with all the surrounding towns and cities. So if you want to escape the city for a weekend getaway to go to Colombia’s coffee region or the Caribbean coast, you can get there by plane within the space of an hour or two. Not only is the warm weather and exuberant nightlife a great reason to visit Medellin; but you’ll find many opportunities to connect with the local culture too.
Recommended by: Dan at Layer Culture
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the most famous cities to visit any time of the year; but in spring it gets even better, if possible. In fact, in the springtime, the city hosts its top events, celebrations, and attractions. From around mid-March to the end of April Amsterdam is kissed by the sun. The temperatures rise and the sky is mostly clear and blue. It is the perfect time to get out of the house and spend a day at one of the several parks spread across the city. Moreover, if you are fond of flowers and, in particular, tulips, you cannot miss springtime in Amsterdam.
All the millions of fields around the city are colored by millions of blossoming tulips with a variety of vibrant and bright colors. Grab a bike and cycle across the sea of flowers on some of the dedicated marked paths. Furthermore, you could also join one of the many tours offered and go for a day trip. Which include visits the windmills sprouting from the ground and surrounded by tulips in full bloom. Another option you have is to spend your day strolling around the amazing canals. Visit one of the cafés alongside the water and enjoy the sunshine. Or, why not, you can get on a boat and admire the city flourishing after the long and cold winter from the water.
When traveling to Amsterdam is ideal to rent a house or an apartment near Dam square because there is where all the fun happens. Also you most of the tours and events start or take place there. Also, don’t forget to try some Dutch pancakes at ‘Pancakes Amsterdam Centraal’ near the train station: it has got the best and yummiest flavor combinations in Amsterdam.
Recommended by: Francesca at Travel Heal Love
Groningen, Netherlands
Groningen is a city in the north of the Netherlands and is one of the best cities to visit when you are in the Netherlands. Most travelers only visit Amsterdam but there is so much more to discover in the Netherlands. Groningen is different because you won’t find many tourists here, it is a typical Dutch city and there are a lot of fun things to do in Groningen.
You can visit and see traditional buildings, old churches, beautiful gardens, nice fish markets, and various museums. But a great thing that many travelers aren’t familiar with it is to walk through the old center where you can visit a couple of Groninger Hofjes. Groninger Hofjes are old buildings that were owned by the church. The church offered people that couldn’t take care of themselves a place to live. Today, these courtyards are unique to visit because you get a good idea of how people lived in the Netherlands at the time.
Groningen is a great place to visit all year round. The best period to visit Groningen and Netherlands, in general, is during the spring and summer periods. The advantage is that temperatures are a lot more pleasant. During the spring the average temperature is 20 degrees which makes it a perfect temperature for a city trip and to explore places. The prices to stay in a hotel aren’t that high compared to the summer. During the summer months, many Dutch people travel to Groningen, and as a result, prices rise.
If you are looking for great accommodation, Best Western is recommended. This hotel is located on the edge of the center, so you can quickly reach the center. The rooms are excellent and it has a private parking space, which is handy if you are traveling by car through the Netherlands.
Recommended by: Alexander at Travel Your Memories
Maastricht, the Netherlands
The southernmost city in the Netherlands enjoys beautiful and wholesome springs a little earlier than the rest of the country. A few weeks after Carnival, the weather in Maastricht warms and the international student population awakes from their winter slumber.
The first thing you’ll notice is the many blossoming trees. It’s usually in early May that the pink blossom flies away and covers the cobblestoned streets in natural confetti. Get a good view of this phenomenon and a feel of the city’s size from the belfry of the Sint Janskerk. You’ll see many happy people cycling through heaps of blossom, so make sure your hotel or Airbnb has a bike rental.
The inner city is pedestrian-friendly and you won’t find parking, so come by train. When looking for accommodation, it’s best to stay at one of these squares: Markt, Onze Lieve Vrouweplein, or Vrijthof. There’s a hotel school in town, so all hotels have well-trained staff and high standards. Airbnb has some real gems too and that is what I did during my long stay.
Some spring days can be hot, in which case it’s a good idea to take a tour of the North Caves—a man-made maze of tunnels in a former marl quarry. Another way to spend a hot day is to sit down at one of the terrace restaurants (e.g. Basilica) at a square for a cold wheat beer. Make sure you eat at least one buttery croissant from Mathieu Hermans bakery.
Recommended by: Iris at Mind of a Hitchhiker
Budapest, Hungary
Without a doubt, spring is one of the most colorful seasons to visit Europe. And Budapest, Hungary’s capital, makes no exception.
The temperatures start to rise in April, but if you want to make sure you catch some nice, warm days, plan your trip around mid-May. It’s not too hot nor too cold and while spring weather is notoriously unstable, you’ll be rewarded with sunny days, too. However, make sure to bring a waterproof jacket or poncho (unless you want to buy an umbrella before you go out as it happened to us).
That being said, spring is amazing to sightsee in Budapest. Just walk along the Danube on both banks. The views are outstanding. To see the city from above, you can take a ride in the Ferris Wheel of Budapest, located in Pest, in Erzsébet tér. Or, in Buda, either visit Fisherman’s Bastion in the castle district – without gorgeous views of Pest. Higher up, the Citadella offers views not just of the city but also of the hills surrounding the capital.
With the weather being lovely, it’s time for day trips. Aquincum is the former Roman city, now a collection of ruins, as well as a museum. It’s easily accessible by HEV. Further away on the same HEV line, you can get to Szentendre, a charming village, famous among day-trippers. If you prefer to be more active, just rent a bicycle and follow the path along the Danube.
A great place to stay in the city, for all budgets, is Fanni Budapest Guesthouse, close to Keleti Train Station. Or, closer to the Danube, still in Pest, Central Hotel 21 and Apartments.
When it comes to eating out, there are plenty of choices regardless of your culinary restrictions. Vegans will be delighted to find a lot of options although the Hungarian cuisine is meat-based. Hauer Cukrászda és Kávéház is an excellent choice for brunch. They also offer lovely coffee and sweets (unfortunately the sweets aren’t suitable for vegans, though). Napfényes Cukrászda és Pékség, on the other hand, offers both international and traditional vegan cuisine!
Recommended by: Cris at LookNWalk
Pula, Croatia
The city of Pula is located on the Istrian Peninsula of Croatia. Spring temperatures vary between 14°C and 22°C making it the perfect location to spend a long weekend getting rid of the winter blues. What few travelers know about Pula is that it contains a host of very cool ancient Roman ruins the most impressive of which is the Arena.
In fact, the Pula Arena is the 6th largest arena in the world (the Colosseum being number one) with a capacity of over 23.000 spectators. The Arena is still in use today, serving as a stage for plays, enactments of gladiator battles, or the more modern form of entertainment, open-air cinema.
Aside from the Arena, make sure to visit the Temple of Augustus, the Arch of Sergii, the gates of Hercules or head out of town to the Cape Kamenjak to bathe in pristine blue waters. Istria is known for its truffles, olive oil, delicious fresh pasta (fusi), and of course wine. Be sure to indulge in all of these when you visit!
Pula is not a large city, try and stay in the city center to really get a feel of the city (hotel Amfiteater) or alternatively if you want to stay close to the beach you might consider the slightly larger and more luxurious Park Plaza Histria Pula.
Recommended by: Caroline at Veggie Way Farer
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is perfect for visiting in spring, as it is already quite warm, but the high season with the crowds of tourists hasn’t arrived yet.
The city is famous for its architecture, culture, and cuisine. Sagrada Familia is Antoni Gaudí’s most ambitious project that hasn’t yet been finished but already is awe-inspiring. This iconic basilica is a well-known symbol of Barcelona, and in spring the queues for visiting it should be shorter.
Park Güell is another popular attraction with its amazing architecture and the nice views of Barcelona from above. It’s a perfect destination for a warm spring day where you can soak in the beautiful surroundings and the nice sunshine after the winter months.
The best way how to get around in Barcelona between these and other attractions is using the metro. It’s fast, cheap, and really saves you time compared to walking. Check out other things to know before traveling to Barcelona here!
And while visiting Barcelona, don’t forget to eat some tapas – the famous Spanish bite-sized appetizers. You can find them in any restaurant, and there are even special tapas bars.
You can also go on a day trip from Barcelona if you wish to explore the surroundings more. Top suggestions are the cities of Girona and Tarragona, as well as the impressive Montserrat monastery. All of these can be easily reached by public transportation.
Hotel Nouvel is a great choice for accommodation – it’s located a walking distance away from the main pedestrian street Las Ramblas and near the beach as well.
Recommended by: Una at Wandernity
Malaga, Spain
If you are looking for a city break with sunny weather and a good range of activities to do, you won’t be disappointed by choosing Malaga in Southern Spain.
Malaga offers activities for all types of travelers all year round, but spring is the perfect season to explore the city as the weather is warm (but not as warm as summer when it can be difficult for some people to explore) and it’s often less crowded.
Some of the must-see attractions in Malaga include Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress-palace with incredible views of the port, Malaga Cathedral, Gibralfaro viewpoint, and Picasso Museum Malaga.
However, if you love nature, there are many outstanding beaches and hiking trails near Malaga. One of the most known places to go hiking is Montes de Malaga, just 5 kilometers north of the city.
For a unique experience in Malaga, visit the city during Easter week in which there are religious parades that take place in the city center all day long.
The best accommodation to stay in Malaga is Room Mate Valeria Hotel. Not only is the location perfect, but its rooms are beautifully decorated with elements of nature that represent Malaga.
Finally, if you are staying in the city for longer than a weekend, explore other areas and towns. Malaga is close to incredible white towns and villages as well as other beautiful Andalusian cities such as Seville or Granada which makes it the perfect destination to start a road trip or go on day trips.
Recommended by: Christina at My Little World of Traveling
Madrid, Spain
Being one of the greenest and sunniest cities in Europe, Madrid is an amazing spring destination. It’s one of those places that can be bustling and full-of-life yet are not overwhelming and still feel cozy and welcoming.
Not only is Madrid home to dozens of must-visit museums and landmarks like the Royal Palace, Prado Museum, and Retiro Park, but it’s also where you’ll find enchanting neighborhoods to explore, buzzing nightlife, an unbelievable culinary scene, and so much more.
Be sure to check out cozy cafes like Toma Cafe and HanSo Café, tapas bars like Juana La Loca and Casa Toni, devour churros with chocolate at Chocolateria San Gines, and book a meal at some Michelin star restaurants.
In mid to late spring, you’ll also get to enjoy fantastic weather, the blooms of the almond trees at the Quinta de Los Molinos Park, and the beauty of Oeste Park’s rose garden, though there are plenty of other gorgeous parks in Madrid.
If you have some extra time, take day trips to UNESCO cities like Segovia, Toledo, Alcala de Henares, and many others.
To enjoy the city to the fullest, some of the best places to stay in Madrid include Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini and Hostal Alexis, but you’ll easily find accommodations for any budget.
Recommended by: Or at My Path in the World
Rome, Italy
Rome is a fantastic city to visit in any season, but in Spring it offers something magical. The long rainy days begin to thin out, as early as March the weather can offer warm and pleasant days. The sun heats up without burning like in the hot summer months and walking in the eternal city, among ruins and monuments, takes on an even more fascinating connotation. This is also the best season to visit Rome with Kids.
Spring is the best time for visits to the imperial forums, and other historic sites such as Trajan’s markets and the Circus Maximus. These spaces are quite large and for the most part outdoors, which makes them difficult to pleasantly explore under the scorching summer sun or with torrential winter rain.
Towards the end of Spring you can also participate in an immersive cultural experience at the Forum of Caesar and Augustus, wherein the evening, you can listen to the story that tells the importance of the forums in Roman everyday life, all accompanied by videos and projections, which make the visit very impressive.
In April the boat trips on the Tiber river also resume. The journey they take is not very long, but they will make you appreciate the city from another point of view. In this period, Villa Borghese is also perfect for bike rides or with fun rickshaws.
Most restaurants will start serving lunch outdoors, you just have to choose your favorite corner. To experience the daily life of the city, stop for a light lunch in the Monti area at La Bottega del Caffe. Monti is also one of the best places to look for accommodation. Book in advance and you will be able to find a place at the Grifo hotel.
Recommended by: Clotilde at A Princess Travelling with Twins
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul, Turkey is one of the best cities to visit in spring. The weather is warm and inviting, the flowers, especially tulips are in full bloom, and it’s the best time to walk around all the amazing sight
Istanbul straddles two continents, Europe and Asia, which lends a distinct exoticism to the city. There is plenty of water, ferries, and bridges that will easily get you from one side to the other, which in spring is breezy and beautiful. Walking the waterfront on the Golden Horn, especially at sunset is something you will always remember.
There are plenty of important things to do while you are in the city, such as visiting the many mosques, palaces, and markets in this dynamic city. The Blue Mosque and Aya Sofia are two of the most important sites to visit. The Domabahce and Topkapi palaces will show you the luxury of royalty. And both the Egyptian market and Grand Bazaar encapsulate everything that you imagine Istanbul to be. All of them are unmissable.
While there try a few of our favorite restaurants like the Pandeli and the Hamsi, and stay in the main tourist area of the city Sultanahmet. There are many great hotels, and we highly recommend the Osmanhan Hotel or the Hotel Sultania.
Plan your stay for at least a week, and get ready to have the most amazing spring vacation of your life. Istanbul delivers!
Recommended by: Corinne Vail at Reflections Enroute
Aqaba, Jordan
Aqaba is the only coastal city in Jordan and it is located on the Red Sea. Remarkably, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt are within a one-hour drive of Aqaba.
Aqaba is known as a resort town in Jordan with beautiful hotels like the Movenpick Resorts and Residences, mere steps to the gorgeous blue waters of the Red Sea, and white sandy beaches. In March, average high temperatures are 27 degrees Celsius and in April, they reach 31 degrees Celsius. You can spend each day laying by the hotel pools or enjoying the beaches and the sea.
Another option is to spend a day on a boat, sunbathing and eating delicious Mediterranean food, while touring and snorkeling in the Red Sea. If you are keen on more adventure, you have many amazing options. First, you can drive one hour to Wadi Rum Protected Area, 720 square kilometers of desert wilderness, and take a 3-hour jeep tour of the red sandy landscape. You find rock formations, petroglyphs, natural springs, and other significant carvings from ancient Bedouin tribes thousands of years old. It is exhilarating and fascinating.
Another option is to drive 2 hours to Petra to see the ancient ruins of a former major trading center and metropolis tucked into the mountains. It is one of the most extraordinary archeological sites that you will ever have the privilege of seeing. A particularly special experience is to see Petra at night, with only the moon, stars, and candles illuminating the stunning natural and man-made sites around you. Make sure you try My Mom’s Recipe Restaurant right outside the gates to Petra for delicious traditional Jordanian food.
Recommended by: Nicole at Go Far Grow Close
Tokyo, Japan
If you’re hoping to be amazed by a seemingly unreal world bursting with color as it slowly emerges from winter’s cold grasp, looks no further than Tokyo. Japan’s modern capital city has a plethora of things to see and do to celebrate the arrival of spring!
First up from mid-February is the blooming of fragrant plum blossoms. Although they aren’t as widely known as their more famous cherry counterparts, enjoying plum blossoms in Hanegi Park is quite underrated (and with fewer crowds).
One of the most popular activities for locals is to enjoy hanami (cherry blossom viewing) beneath candy-floss pink trees in the form of a picnic with friends. Head to leafy spaces such as Shinjuku Gyoen, Inokashira Park and Nakameguro River.
The Ueno Sakura Matsuri (Spring Festival) in late March is held in Ueno Park, lined with stunning pink blossoms and red lanterns illuminated in the evenings as far as the eye can see. I found it all too easy to lose track of time watching little green birds frolic through the trees, causing petals to flutter down like snow.
Shops, cafes, and boutiques get into the spirit of spring by selling seasonal treats in sakura (cherry blossom) flavors, such as drinks, sweets, snacks, and even merchandise.
In terms of weather, visiting Japan in spring is one of the best times to see Mt Fuji. Despite being about 100 kilometers away from Tokyo, the clear spring skies mean she is visible from here with the naked eye!
Where to stay: Nogha Hotel Ueno
Where to eat: Ichiran Ramen Ueno or from street vendors at Ameya Yokocho
Recommended by: Alyse at The Invisible Tourist
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a fantastic city with a lot to see and to do, especially for nature and outdoor lovers. Spring is the best time to visit Cape Town for several reasons. First, the weather, it’s warm but not too hot and less windy than in the summer months. The second reason is the spring blossom; wildflowers of the West Coast, fantastic city gardens, and purple clouds of the Jacaranda trees lined up along the city streets. Third, it’s far less busy and crowded in the spring than in the summer which means accommodation prices are more affordable and you don’t have to book your trip months in advance.
The best place to see wildflowers is Namaqualand, a 1-2 hours drive from Cape Town. After heavy winter rains, the fields along the West Coast are covered in a colorful flower carpet with yellow and orange dominating the landscape. Another great place to visit in the spring is the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden. Here you can see hundreds of indigenous plants and trees in full blossom. There are several walking trails that take visitors to different parts of the garden. Wine farms around Cape Town look stunning in the spring; green vineyards along the slopes, Jacaranda trees in purple blossom, gardens covered in flowers.
The Silo Hotel at V&A Waterfront is an amazing place to stay in Cape Town.
Chefs Warehouse Pinchos and Wine bar in the city center is a great place to come for lunch or dinner.
Recommended by: Alya at Stingy Nomads
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