Where to travel in April

Dreaming of a spring getaway? The Netherlands in April is a dream come true for flower lovers and festival seekers alike. Here’s why:

• See the world-famous Keukenhof tulips. Step into a postcard of colorful blooms and iconic Dutch windmills. With more than seven million tulips in bloom, the Keukenhof Gardens are the crown jewel of tulip season in the Netherlands.

• Explore vibrant Amsterdam in full bloom. Wander picturesque canals, charming bridges, and flower markets that burst with color and life in April. See what else lies in store on a spring tour of Amsterdam.

• Celebrate King’s Day in Amsterdam. On April 27, locals take to the streets for a citywide festival. Revelers enjoy live music, markets, and orange tompouce pastries—a dessert of velvety vanilla custard sandwiched between golden puff pastry layers. The celebration extends into the canals, where you can board one of many boat cruises during your free time. Make sure to pack something orange (the country’s national color) and check out our Amsterdam Travel Guide for more insider tips before you go.

On our Amsterdam & the Keukenhof Gardens tour, you’ll stroll through dazzling flower fields, visit the acclaimed Keukenhof tulip gardens, and experience the charm of Amsterdam during its most colorful—and festive—time of year.

Be prepared to share the experience of tiptoeing through the tulips because this popular sight is a traveler favorite. “If you’ve never seen the Keukenhof Gardens, I highly recommend adding this destination to your bucket list!” said traveler Maria. “I was tulip drunk after seeing and snapping photos of so many colorful and beautiful varieties, and was truly mesmerized!”

When it comes to shoulder season travel, pleasant weather and peak floral beauty make Japan one of the best April travel destinations. Here are a few reasons why:

• See (and smell) the cherry blossoms. The country bursts into soft pinks and whites as cherry blossoms, known as sakura, blanket parks, temples, and riversides. An April tour is the perfect time to see cherry blossoms in Japan.

• Enjoy spring weather. Mild temperatures are ideal for exploring Tokyo’s bustling streets, Kyoto’s tranquil gardens, and the scenic landscapes in between.

• Experience hanami. Along with the blooming flowers comes the beloved national tradition of hanami—picnicking with friends beneath the cherry trees to admire the beauty of the blossoms together. Common snacks include onigiri, a savory-filled rice ball wrapped in seaweed, and dango, sweet rice flour dumplings specifically made pink, white, and green during spring.

On our Cherry Blossoms in Japan: Tokyo to Kyoto tour, you’ll stroll along Kyoto’s Philosopher’s Path, visit Tokyo’s ancient Senso-ji Temple, and ride a cable car up Komagatake Mountain to take in panoramic views—all framed by beautiful blooming cherry blossom trees. To make the most out of your Japan tour, check out our Japan Travel Guide for hidden gems and expert insight.

The national parks are some of the best places to travel in April. You can appreciate the most beautiful places in the United States with cooler temperatures, blooming flora, and fewer crowds. Here’s what nature lovers can look forward to:

• Explore Zion National Park under clear spring skies. April is one of the best times to visit Utah’s National Parks, when Zion’s red cliffs glow and wildflowers bloom. Pass the Vermilion Cliffs’ ancient petroglyphs, ride an open-air tram with a geological guide, and take in sweeping desert views.

• See wildlife and waterfalls. The national parks come alive in April as snowmelt feeds roaring waterfalls and wildlife emerges from hibernation. This is the best time of year to spot offspring like baby bison, and Yellowstone is one of the best places for it.

• Enjoy serene trails before summer crowds arrive. With cooler mornings and peaceful evenings, you’ll have space to truly connect with these awe-inspiring landscapes before the summer crowds descend.

On our U.S. National Parks: The Grand Canyon to Yellowstone tour, you’ll journey from Arizona’s dramatic canyons to Wyoming’s geothermal wonders. Explore six iconic national parks—Mesa Verde, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone—all on one trip and experience America’s most breathtaking natural treasures at their very best.

Switzerland in April is where winter’s sparkle meets spring’s renewal. The country transforms into a postcard-perfect destination as snow melts into turquoise lakes and wildflowers bloom across the Swiss Alps in spring—ideal for scenic train rides and lakeside strolls. Here are a few reasons to visit Switzerland in April:

• See two seasons in one trip. Enjoy snow-capped peaks in the Alps while spring flowers brighten valleys and charming Swiss lakes. The combination of cool mornings and sunny afternoons makes sightseeing especially pleasant.

• Ride the rails through breathtaking landscapes. Switzerland’s world-famous trains glide past waterfalls, meadows, and mountain villages, all bursting with spring color.

• Savor local culture without the crowds. April’s shoulder season means more room at cozy cafes, mountain viewpoints, and charming towns like Lucerne and Interlaken.

On our Switzerland by Train: Lucerne to Zurich tour, you’ll explore lakeside Lucerne, ride up Mount Pilatus, and wander the winter wonderland of St. Moritz, all while stunning views of the Alps surround you. Traveling in April lets you experience the best of both worlds, from snowy peaks to blooming valleys, making it the perfect time to see Switzerland at its most enchanting. Make the most of your trip by by checking out our ultimate Switzerland Travel Guide before you jet off.

Spain in April is alive with color, culture, and celebration. Warming temperatures and lively spring festivals make it one of the best times to experience the country’s charm—from Madrid’s grand boulevards to Seville’s spirited streets. Here are a few reasons to visit Spain in April:

• Celebrate at Seville’s Feria de Abril. Dance the sevillanas, watch horse-drawn carriages parade through the streets, and admire the locals’ traditional dress during one of Spain’s most vibrant festivals. This unforgettable Andalusian experience is filled with music, dancing, singing, food, and camaraderie.

• Admire the Alhambra in bloom. This Moorish fortress in Granada is one of Spain’s most visited landmarks. The detailed red sandstone walls, colorful tilework, and sprawling gardens are made even more striking in spring. Due to the site’s popularity, Alhambra tickets must be reserved well in advance. On our extension to Granada & Costa del Sol, we take care of that for you and include a guided sightseeing tour—no stress, just stunning views.

• Soak up perfect spring weather. With temperatures between 50-70 F, April is ideal for dining outdoors in a plaza and having a leisurely sobremesa—the tradition of sitting around the table after your meal and enjoying conversation. Luckily, Spain has a reason to visit in every season. Check out our seasonal guide to plan your Spain trip →

Get a glimpse into Spain’s artistic soul on our A Week in Spain: Barcelona, Madrid & Seville tour, where you’ll savor tapas in Seville, admire Gaudí’s whimsical architecture in Barcelona, and feel the duene—the heart and emotion poured into the performance—of a traditional flamenco show in Madrid. Check out our Spain Travel Guide for other can’t-miss moments to seek out during your free time.