2 Peloponnese, Greece
☀ Average April temperatures: Highs: 21C; Lows: 10C
If you haven’t heard our Greek-born co-founder, Michael, singing the praises of the Peloponnese, where have you been?! It’s his all-time favourite destination, but particularly in April for so many reasons…
Unlike the Greek islands, which generally haven’t yet opened for the season, the Peloponnese is a lived-in stretch of mainland Greece, so you’ll find plenty of life here in April. And with Athens being the nearest airport, flights operate year-round. Balmy spring temperatures in the mid 20s make the southern Peloponnese coast a gorgeous place to be. While the sea might be a bit chilly for anything more than a quick dip, hiking opportunities are at their best in April, with carpets of wildflowers and snow-covered summits in the distance. Michael was a hiking guide, so he can offer a ton of advice – see his insider guide.
Bear in mind that Orthodox Easter falls on different dates to the Protestant one, but it’s usually during April. Some hotels get busy during Holy Week, others are still at the start of their season; but either way, it’s a real bonus. Easter celebrations here are fun and convivial, with everyone out feasting together – you’ll get plenty of invites from the locals, and you’d be mad to pass up the chance for a party.
3 Paris, France
☀ Average April temperatures: Highs: 17C; Lows: 6C
A quick break to Paris is a good idea at any time, but we think April is the best all-rounder. If you don’t believe us, just ask Ella Fitzgerald.
Spring is when the city spills outdoors, with bistros setting up alfresco dining, and parks bursting into colour. Cherry blossoms bloom, as do chestnuts, tulips and peonies, so head to the Jardin du Luxembourg or the Palais Royal Garden to see the spring colours. It’s a nice time of year for cycling, too, as it’s not yet overrun with summer tourists (but it is still busy). The weather in April is changeable but you often get a good dose of sunshine, and temps peaking at around 16C. And if the April showers do come, there’s no shortage of museums and galleries to nip into.
Paris’ main event in April is the Marathon, so check in advance for street closures, but there’s a lively atmosphere during this time, which is fun to be a part of. Another lovely marker of April is the start of the musical gardens and fountain shows at the Palace of Versaille – which is absolutely worth a day trip.
4 Vietnam
☀ Average April temperatures: Highs: 29C; Lows: 25C
Finding the right month to travel to Vietnam can be tricky. This long, slender country stretches 1650km, and the north experiences an entirely different monsoon season to the south, so timing is key. If you want to tour the country, April is a great all-rounder for pleasant temperatures, sunshine and low rainfall. Plus, most domestic tourists travel to Vietnam later in the year (July/August), so you should find that prices are lower and sights aren’t so busy.
Central Vietnam in particular is sublime in April, often experiencing clear skies and average temps of 28C. It’s perfect for relaxing on the heavenly curves of golden sand around Da Nang, and for exploring the charming, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An’s picturesque old town, which lines the banks of the Thu Bon River.
In North Vietnam, the rains should have eased off, and places like Hanoi and Ha Long Bay should be experiencing temperatures in the mid-high 20s. Rural areas may still be chilly, so bring layers. South Vietnam will be warm but rather steamy at this time of year. In Saigon we did most of our exploring by night, which was actually very atmospheric, the skyline twinkling like New York City.
5 Cyprus
☀ Average April temperatures: Highs: 23C; Lows: 12C
By April, most of us Europeans are yearning for summer but we don’t want to cross continents to find it. So choose Cyprus. Its southerly position off the coast of the Middle East means that good weather arrives earlier here, with April seeing temps in the mid-20s, little rain, and plenty of sunshine.
Head to the west of the island for the best of it – places like Paphos are gorgeous in spring, and it’s not too hot for exploring the archeological sites. The Troodos Mountains will be cooler but they’re at their most beautiful, turning a brilliant green from the winter rains, with wildflowers springing into life.
With the Easter holidays often falling in April (bear in mind that Orthodox Easter is different), Cyprus is a brilliant option for a family getaway – it’s safe, English is widely spoken, and they drive on the left. Plus, the beaches are sandy, seas are calm for swimming, and the kids won’t burn so easily in these temperatures. 1st April is Greek Cypriot National Day, so be aware that some small shops and restaurants may close, but expect street parades and a fun atmosphere.
Toying with going away a bit later? Have a look at our top picks for where to go on holiday in May