The Best Places to Travel in April: Your Guide to Spring Travel
April is shoulder season magic—fewer crowds, better weather, and experiences you’ll actually remember. Here’s where to go.
April is that sweet spot in the travel calendar where everything just clicks. The weather's warming up, the crowds haven't hit peak levels yet, and you're not paying summer prices for flights and hotels. It's shoulder season at its finest, and honestly, it might be the most underrated month to travel.
Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms in Japan, dodging the summer heat in Morocco, or exploring Europe before everyone and their mom shows up, April delivers. Here are the best places to travel in April…and what’s so special about them.
Taking in the stunning views of Santorini, Greece.
Greece: Spring without the chaos
Greece in April is what travel dreams are made of. The weather is warming up (think 60-70°F), the wildflowers are blooming across the islands, and you can actually walk through Santorini without getting elbowed by a thousand other tourists trying to get the same sunset shot.
Why April? Summer in Greece can be brutally hot and insanely crowded. April gives you that perfect Mediterranean vibe—sunny days, pleasant temperatures, and way more breathing room at iconic spots like the Acropolis or Mykonos' Little Venice. Plus, everything's open and ready for the season, but prices haven't skyrocketed yet.
On The Greek Islands, you'll hit Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros. And in April, you get to experience these islands coming alive for the season. The beaches might be a bit cool for swimming, but the hiking is incredible, the archaeological sites are way less packed, and you'll have actual conversations with locals.
Pro tip: April is also when Greek Easter sometimes falls, which means you might catch some seriously authentic local celebrations. Think candlelit processions, fireworks, and feasts that go on for days.
Cherry blossoms in full bloom along a Tokyo canal, Japan.
Japan: Cherry blossom season
If you've been scrolling through photos of Japan's cherry blossoms and thinking "I need to see that," April is the time. While peak bloom varies by region and year, early April typically catches the tail end of sakura season in Tokyo and Kyoto, with northern regions blooming throughout the month.
Why April? Cherry blossom season in Japan is legendary for a reason. The entire country transforms into this dreamy pink wonderland, and the cultural tradition of hanami (flower viewing) means parks fill with people picnicking under the trees. Yes, it's busy, but it's also a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience.
Highlights of Japan takes you through Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone, and Hiroshima. In April, you're not just seeing temples and shrines—you're seeing them framed by cherry blossoms. The weather is mild (perfect for all that walking you'll be doing), and spring festivals are happening across the country. Cherry blossom timing is unpredictable and the crowds are real. But there's something magical about joining locals for hanamiand realizing you're part of a tradition that's been happening for centuries.
Italy: Perfect weather, perfectly quiet
Italy in April is chef's kiss. The weather is ideal for wandering through cobblestone streets, the gelato tastes even better in the spring sunshine, and you can actually get a table at that cute trattoria without a reservation made three months ago.
Why April? Summer in Italy means heat, humidity, and tons of tourists. April gives you comfortable temperatures (60s-70s°F), longer daylight hours, and the ability to explore places like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Uffizi Gallery without melting or waiting in lines that wrap around the block.
On trips like Venice, Florence & Rome or Ultimate Italy, April means you can climb the Duomo without sweating through your shirt, wander through Venice's canals in perfect weather, and enjoy aperitivo on a terrace without fighting for a seat. The countryside is green and blooming, making day trips to Tuscany or Cinque Terre absolutely stunning.
Pro tip: Easter in Italy is a big deal. If your trip coincides with the holiday, you might catch special masses at the Vatican, processions through historic city centers, and traditional Easter meals that'll ruin all other food.
Exploring Portugal's stunning Algarve coastline at golden hour.
Portugal: Spring blooms & sunny days
Portugal in April is one of Europe's best-kept secrets. The weather is beautiful (especially in Lisbon and the Algarve), the prices are reasonable, and you get to experience Portuguese culture without the summer crowds.
Why April? Portugal's spring weather is reliably pleasant—sunny days, occasional showers that keep everything green, and temperatures perfect for exploring cities on foot. The Algarve is waking up for tourist season, meaning things are open but not yet packed.
EF Ultimate Break offers several Portugal-focused trips that are perfect for April travel. The Portugal Getaway gives you a comprehensive tour of the country's highlights, while Portugal Adventure: Porto, Lagos Old Town & Benagil Caves takes you from Porto's historic streets to the stunning coastal caves of the Algarve. And if you're looking for something truly unique, the Azores: Volcanic Island & Off-Road Expedition is particularly stunning in April, with green landscapes, comfortable temperatures, and fewer tourists. It's like Iceland and Hawaii had a baby, and that baby is absolutely gorgeous in spring.
Laughing among the golden dunes of the Sahara Desert, Morocco.
Morocco: Desert heat before it gets too real
Morocco in April is the move if you want to experience the Sahara, explore ancient medinas, and eat your weight in tagine without melting into a puddle. The weather is warm but not scorching, making it perfect for all the adventures Morocco has to offer.
Why April? Summer in Morocco, especially in cities like Marrakech and in the desert, can be intensely hot (we're talking 90-100°F+). April gives you pleasant temperatures (70s-80s°F in most places), clear skies, and comfortable conditions for activities like camel rides, desert camping, and wandering through souks.
Highlights of Morocco trip takes you through Casablanca, Marrakech, the Sahara Desert, Fez, and Tangier over 11 days. In April, you can actually enjoy the desert experience without feeling like you're being slowly cooked. The Atlas Mountains are still snow-capped, creating this incredible contrast with the desert landscapes.
Machu Picchu emerging from the clouds in the Peruvian Andes.
Peru: Dry season for Machu Picchu
Peru in April is ideal if Machu Picchu is on your bucket list. April marks the shoulder season between the rainy season and peak tourist season, giving you clearer skies and fewer crowds at one of the world's most iconic sites.
Why April? The rainy season in Peru typically ends in March, so April brings drier weather and better visibility for those epic Machu Picchu sunrise photos. You're also avoiding the June-August peak season when the Inca Trail and Sacred Valley are absolutely packed.
Peru & Machu Picchu Adventure takes you from Lima to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and of course, Machu Picchu. In April, you get clearer weather for hiking, better conditions for exploring ancient ruins, and a more intimate experience at sites that can feel like theme parks during peak season.
Sailing the crystal-clear Adriatic waters along Croatia's coast.
Croatia: Coastal beauty before summer prices
Croatia has become one of Europe's hottest destinations, but April lets you experience the Dalmatian Coast before prices spike and cruise ships start rolling in.
Why April? The weather is warming up (60s°F), the Adriatic is starting to sparkle, and coastal towns like Split and Dubrovnik are coming alive for the season. You get that Mediterranean vibe without the summer heat and crowds.
Cruise Croatia: Split to Split takes you island-hopping along the Dalmatian Coast over 12 days. In April, you're experiencing these islands and coastal towns at a more relaxed pace. The water might cool if you’re swimming, but the scenery is incredible, the food is amazing, and Hvar and Dubrovnik (without the crowds) will make you feel like the main character.
Taking in Costa Rica's lush rainforest and volcanic landscape.
Costa Rica: Green season magic
Costa Rica in April sits at the tail end of dry season, giving you sunny weather and lush landscapes before the rainy season kicks in. It's perfect for all the outdoor adventures Costa Rica is famous for.
Why April? You get the best of both worlds—dry season weather (meaning better conditions for zip-lining, hiking, and beach time) combined with the green, lush landscapes that come from recent rains. Wildlife is active, waterfalls are flowing, and the whole country feels alive.
On Costa Rica Adventure, you can hike through cloud forests, spot sloths and monkeys, soak in hot springs, and hit the beach all in comfortable weather. Plus, you're avoiding the December-March peak season crowds.
Why shoulder season is the real MVP
Here's the thing about traveling in April: you're getting all the benefits of peak season (good weather, everything's open, full itineraries) without the downsides (massive crowds, inflated prices, or heat heat heat). Shoulder season means:
- Better prices: Flights and accommodations haven't hit summer rates yet
- Smaller crowds: You can actually enjoy the Sistine Chapel without being shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers.
- More authentic experiences: When destinations aren't overrun with tourists, you get more genuine interactions with locals
- Comfortable weather: Not too hot, not too cold, just right for exploring
- Flexibility: Last-minute plans are easier when places aren't fully booked
Making the most of April travel
Book early, but not too early: April is shoulder season, but it's still popular (especially for places like Japan during cherry blossom season). Book your trip a few months in advance to get good prices and availability.
Pack layers: Spring weather can be unpredictable. Bring options for warm days, cool evenings, and the occasional rain shower.
Be flexible: If you're chasing specific natural phenomena (like cherry blossoms), understand that timing can vary. But honestly, these destinations are amazing even if you miss peak bloom.
Embrace the season: April might mean some attractions have limited hours or some beach clubs aren't fully open yet. But it also means you're experiencing destinations at a more authentic, less touristy time.
The bottom line
April is genuinely one of the best months to travel. You're getting great weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices across some of the world's most incredible destinations. Whether you're island-hopping in Greece, chasing cherry blossoms in Japan, or exploring ancient ruins in Peru, April delivers.
And with EF Ultimate Break, you don't have to stress about planning every detail. We've got your accommodations, transportation, activities, and expert Tour Directors who know these destinations inside and out. You just show up, make friends, and create memories.
Key takeaways
April isn’t just another month to travel—it’s the sweet spot where great weather meets fewer crowds and better prices, letting you actually experience destinations instead of fighting through them.
From Greece’s blooming islands to Japan’s cherry blossoms to Peru’s clear-sky treks, April unlocks the kind of travel moments that justify the flight, whether it’s your first big trip or your twentieth.
The best time to go isn’t always peak season—sometimes it’s about catching places when they’re waking up or winding down, when you can breathe, explore, and connect without the chaos of summer crowds.
Know before you go
From the ins and outs of our trips to finding the one that fits you best—here’s what you need to know.
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