The best places to travel in April

Joanne Owen

written by
Joanne Owen

updated 30.07.2024

Looking for somewhere special to vacation in April? Read on for ideas covering all corners of the globe, and all kinds of trips. From uncovering culture in Krakow, Poland, and enjoying scenic spring breaks in the UK's captivating Cotswolds, to soaking up tropical beaches and wildlife wonders in Madagascar and the Philippines, here we present the best places to travel in April.

Hanoi Train street, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Hanoi, Vietnam © Shutterstock

1. Hanoi, Vietnam

Why visit: cherry blossom, festivals, and the ideal weather for outdoor excursions
Average temperature: 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C)
Average daily budget: $60-$120

Though high-octane and undeniably heady, HanoiVietnam’s historic capital — presents travelers with a more intimate experience than Ho Chi Minh City. It’s also one of the best places to travel in April for stacks of reasons.

Firstly, April sees the city in spring mode, which means mild temperatures and minimal rainfall at a time when it’s festooned in the delicate pink and white blooms of cherry blossoms. 

As a result of the pleasant spring weather, April is a great time to head to Hanoi to explore the city’s iconic attractions on foot. Don’t miss Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Old Quarter.

Be sure to factor in plenty of time to sample the Vietnam’s esteemed street food, including snake if you’re feeling adventurous.

Hanoi is also a brilliant base from which to take day trips to picturesque outlying destinations such as Ninh Binh Province and Ha Long Bay. To make doing the latter easier, book our trip from Hanoi to Halong Bay.

Lastly, visiting Hanoi in April means you’ll get to experience several cultural festivals and events, among them the Hung Kings Temple Festival. 

Celebrated on the 10th day of the third lunar month, this honors Vietnam's legendary founders through processions, traditional performances and offerings at temples.

By the way, if you’re keen to visit both, read up on whether to visit Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City first. Or check out our Vietnam itineraries, which include the option to combine Hanoi with any other destination in the country you desire.

Where to stay: fancy bedding down in the heart of the Old Quarter? Book a room in Hanoi Tirant Hotel. It offers elegant Indochinese-themed rooms that are maximize comfort.

Into culture? Try Hanoi Dragon Boutique Hotel. Located in the Ba Dinh district, it’s just a few blocks from Hoan Kiem Lake and the Water Puppet Theatre.

tourist-krakow-poland-shutterstock_343535699

Krakow is a Rough Guides' best place to travel in April for crowd-free culture and history © Shutterstock

2. Krakow, Poland

Why visit: crowd-free culture and history in mild spring weather 
Average temperature: 39°F to 57°F (4°C to 14°C)
Average daily budget: $80-$150

Blending medieval majesty with modern verve and a thriving food scene, it's little wonder that Krakow is no longer an under-the-radar destination, especially during the summer months.

As a result, if you want to escape the crowds on a culture-packed break in Europe, this charming chocolate-box Polish city is one of the best places to travel in April.

With mild weather, April is a top time to enjoy leisurely walks through the city's parks and gardens, such as Planty Park or the Botanical Garden — they’ll be adorned with vibrant spring flowers at this time of year.

April is also a wonderful month to discover Krakow’s UNESCO World Heritage Site — the Historic Center of Kraków — on foot. Don’t miss meandering the city’s medieval Old Town, Wawel Castle, St. Mary's Basilica, and Rynek Glowny (Main Market Square).

Oh, and when Easter falls in April, you’ll also get to explore traditional Easter markets, and sample seasonal treats like pisanki (decorated eggs) and mazurka (Easter cake).

Where to stay: in the market for a lively budget vacation? Head to Let's Rock Krakow hostel

Or how about enjoying Old Town elegance in Hotel Floryan? It's located in a 16th-century building in a pedestrian zone of Kraków’s Old Town.

Angkor Wat

Angkor Wat © Shutterstock

3. Siem Reap, Cambodia

Why visit: New Year festivities, floating villages and temple magic
Average temperature: 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C)
Average daily budget: $50-$100

April sees Cambodia celebrate New Year, locally known as Khmer New Year or Chol Chnam Thmey. This means those who visit Siem Reap during the month will get to witness traditional games, dance performances and processions that provide insights into Cambodian culture and traditions.

Falling in the dry season, April also provides excellent weather for exploring the ancient temples of Angkor Archaeological Park.

When planning your Cambodia itinerary, keep in mind that the weather can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). But don’t let that scare you off—thanks to the relatively low humidity, it’s still comfortable enough to explore the temples of Angkor Wat or hike through the Cardamom Mountains.

Speaking of which, it’s also a great month to take trips to the fascinating floating villages on Tonle Sap Lake, southeast of Siem Reap. 

While April is a popular time to visit Siem Reap — thanks to the favorable weather and New Year festivities — all these iconic attractions tend to be less crowded compared with the peak tourist season that runs from December to February

Where to stay: for a slice of celebrity-style treatment, stay in Mane Colonial Classic.

Boasting a sun terrace with a swimming pool, restaurant, bar and bike rental, the three-star Five Senses Boutique Hotel is a good mid-price option that punches above its weight.

Chile, Santiago, Parque Metropolitano de Santiago, Cerro San Cristobal (San Cristobal Hill), people at viewing platform

Santiago, Chile © Shutterstock

4. Santiago, Chile

Why visit: wine and outdoor adventure in mild fall weather
Average temperature: 46°F to 72°F (8°C to 22°C)
Average daily budget: $80-$150

If you're into adventure, Chile won’t disappoint—especially with Santiago as your starting point. The capital serves as the perfect gateway to the surrounding Andes Mountains, where you’ll find some of the best outdoor activities the country has to offer. Planning your trip for April? Smart move. The conditions are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the nearby national parks and reserves.

It’s also a great month to embark on wine tasting tours of the nearby Maipo, Colchagua and Casablanca valleys. 

Into adventure? Santiago serves as a gateway to outdoor activities in the surrounding Andes Mountains, with April offering excellent conditions for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding in nearby national parks and reserves.

Back in the city itself, you won’t want to miss enjoying Santiago's beautiful parks and gardens. Take your pick from relaxing in the shade of trees at Parque Metropolitano, exploring the botanical beauty of Jardín Botánico Nacional, and admiring the colorful blooms in Parque Bicentenario.

Oh, and don’t forget the city’s considerable cultural attractions. From soaking up stunning colonial architecture in neighborhoods like Lastarria and Barrio Yungay, and visiting museums like the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art, Santiago is a dream destination for culture vultures. 

Where to stay: for a four-star stay with views of the Andes Mountains from its rooftop pool, check-out Santiago’s centrally-located Four Points Hotel.

We also rate Boutique Hotel le Reve for its stylish décor and French-inspired courtyard in upscale Providencia. 

Osaka castle with cherry blossom. Japanese spring beautiful scene ,Osaka,Japan

Osaka castle in cherry blossom season © Shutterstock

 

5. Osaka, Japan

Why visit: spring cherry blossom and scenic early-summer day trips
Average temperature: 50°F to 68°F (10°C to 20°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$200

April is synonymous with cherry blossom season (sakura) in Japan, which means Osaka's parks, gardens, and streets are adorned with beautiful blossoms in full bloom at this time of year. 

Beyond being wowed by the sight of the blossoms in places like Osaka Castle Park, Kema Sakuranomiya Park, Shitennoji Temple and the Osaka Mint Bureau, visitors to Osaka in April can also enjoy sakura-related events. From illuminated night-time cherry blossom displays, to traditional performances and food stalls offering seasonal treats, it really is a special time.

In addition, with April marking the transition from spring to summer in Osaka, it’s also a wonderful time to take day trips to nearby iconic destinations.

For example, April offers a scenic backdrop to explore Kyoto's temples, gardens and bamboo forests, along with Nara's deer park and historic sites.

Editor’s tip: while there are plenty of reasons Osaka should be on your radar, if you're not sure where to head in Japan — or whether to visit Tokyo or Kyoto first — you might like our customizable Japan itineraries.

Where to stay: Mitsui Garden Hotel Osaka Premier offers four-star comfort and style in a central location.

Into movies? Consider pushing the boat out by booking a room in Park Front Hotel at the Universal Studios.

Can't wait to travel to Japan? Increase your chances of an unforgettable trip by choosing one of the best places to stay in Osaka.

Aerial panoramic view of the old town of Dubrovnik with famous Cable Car on Srd © Shutterstock

Dubrovnik's old town © Shutterstock

6. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Why visit: crowd-free city exploration and island-hopping
Average temperature: 52°F to 64°F (11°C to 18°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

As is clear from our rundown of the best things to do in the city, Dubrovnik is a wonderful year-round destination. But considering how busy it gets through the peak summer season — partly due to its Game of Thrones connections — heading here for your April vacation has much to commend it. 

You’ll be able to explore the UNESCO-designated Old Town and city walls with more space and tranquility, with April’s mild, sunny weather also wonderful for taking scenic boat tours to the islands.

Crafting the perfect Croatia itinerary means diving into its islands—each offering its own blend of adventure, history, and mouth-watering seafood. For a truly unique experience, head to islands like Lokrum, Mljet, or Korčula.

Back in the city, April’s clear skies are ideal for riding Dubrovnik Cable Car to Mount Srd for panoramic views of the city, coastline and islands. 

Where to stay: for a room with view, it doesn’t get better than Old Town Port Apartments. Located in the center of Dubrovnik Old Town, all the apartments and studios offer unique views of the sea and Old Harbor. 

Or, for all-round luxury near Banje Beach, try Apartments Villa Victoria

Rough Guides tip: As you plan your trip to Dubrovnik, make sure to choose the ideal place to stay in the city.

Ferris wheel in South Bank, Brisbane © Shutterstock

Ferris wheel in South Bank, Brisbane © Shutterstock

7. Brisbane, Australia

Why visit: fun festivals, city exploration and water-based excursions
Average temperature: 59°F to 81°F (15°C to 27°C)
Average daily budget: $120-$200

If you’re looking for an exhilarating long-haul April vacation, consider adding Brisbane to your wishlist. Falling during fall, the mild temperatures and lower humidity offer comfortable conditions for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

Planning a tailored Australia itinerary? A Brisbane river cruise fits perfectly into your schedule, especially if you’re mixing urban exploration with outdoor adventures. After the cruise, hop off at New Farm Park for a peaceful stroll, or stop at the cultural precinct in South Bank to visit the Queensland Art Gallery. 

April is also a top time to take a day trip to Moreton Island. Located just off the coast of Brisbane, here you can stretch out on sandy beaches and see diverse marine life on snorkeling trips through crystal-clear waters.

Brisbane hosts a variety of outdoor festivals and events in April. From the Brisbane Cycling Festival, to the Brisbane Comedy Festival, there's something for everyone.

Where to stay: looking for luxury? The five-star Calile Hotel is fresh, funky and super-stylish.

For home comforts, try the Sustainable B&B by the Bay.

Amsterdamse Bos (Forest) Amstelveen, Amsterdam, Netherlands © Shutterstock

 Amsterdamse Bos (Forest), Amsterdam, Netherlands © Shutterstock

8. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Why visit: flowers and festivities
Average temperature: 39°F to 55°F (4°C to 13°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$200

Two pillars of quintessentially Dutch culture take place in April, each providing more than enough reason to plan your Netherlands itinerary this month.

Firstly, April marks the last month to enjoy the country’s famed tulip season that sees flowers bloom in the easily accessible northern regions.

Secondly, 27th April is King’s Day — Holland’s biggest national event. It also happens to be one of the best free parties in the world.

Expect concerts, markets, fairs and a sea of orange-clad celebrants flooding Amsterdam’s scenic sidewalks, spilling out onto the boats bobbing on the canals.

Where to stay: culture-seeking couples could consider Eden Hotel, Amsterdam — a smart, central four-star. 

For great river views try Room Mate Bruno, a boutique hotel located in a former Dutch East India Company warehouse.

lima-peru-shutterstock_1047718252

Lima, Peru © Shutterstock

9. Lima, Peru

Why visit: city exploration and exhilarating day trips
Average temperature: 63°F to 77°F (17°C to 25°C)
Average daily budget: $80-$120

Been there, done that? Why not take an April vacation to Lima? This month sees the fascinating Peruvian capital transition to the dry season, which brings mild temperatures and clearer skies. 

All the better for sightseeing the city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, wandering the charming streets of the centro histórico, and relaxing in glorious green spaces. 

Editor’s tip: If you're visiting Peru as part of a 7-day or 10-day itinerary, don't miss the botanical gardens of Parque de la Exposición and the water fountains and light shows at the Magic Circle of Water (Circuito Mágico del Agua).

April is also a great time to use Lima as a base to explore nearby attractions. For example, you could take day trips to archaeological sites like Pachacamac or Caral, and head to the coastal town of Barranco to soak up its bohemian charm. 

Or how about venturing into the Andes to explore ancient ruins and epic landscapes?

Where to stay: friendly service and elegant style await at the four-star Arte Hotel Lima.

Meanwhile, three-star value is served by Hotel Ferré Miraflores, a mere five minutes from the beach.

Castle Combe village in Cotswolds, UK © Alxcrs/Shutterstock

Castle Combe village in the Cotswolds, UK © Alxcrs/Shutterstock

10. The Cotswolds, England

Why visit: scenic spring strolls and a feast of festivals
Average temperature: 41°F to 59°F (5°C to 15°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

Rolling countryside. Bubbling brooks. Impossibly pretty villages of thatched cottages and traditional tearooms. The Cotswolds exude archetypal English charm.

And all the better to visit in spring before peak crowds descend, when the region’s woodlands and gardens are at their most beautifully blooming.  

One of the best walks in March and April is the Daffodil Way. This 10-mile circular trail traverses magnificent meadows, orchards, and woods. For wonderful walking routes and recommendations, you’ll want our Staycations Cotswolds guidebook.

Love literature? Chipping Norton Literary Festival is held in April, as is Cheltenham Jazz Festival, which will have you jiving and bopping until the cows come home.

Unlikely as it might be, if you want more reasons to visit, read up on ten great things to do in the Cotswolds.

Where to stay: for old-world coziness in quaint Bourton on the Water, try Old New Inn.

Love food? Head to The White Hart. This 16th-century inn in Castle Combe serves seasonal daily local specials.

beach-auckland-surf-beach-new-zealand-shutterstock_382479787

Auckland surf beach © Shutterstock

11. Auckland, New Zealand

Why visit: walks and water-based trips on the wild side
Average temperature: 57°F to 70°F (14°C to 21°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

Sitting in New Zealand's fall season — with an average temperature range of 54°F to 68°F (12°C to 20°C) — April is a gorgeous time to vacation in Auckland if you fancy enjoying outdoor activities in and around the city.

How about embarking on epic coastal walking trails, or hiking dormant volcanoes like Mount Eden? You could also go kayaking, sailing, or paddleboarding in Auckland's harbors and bays.

Staying on the subject of water, April is also a great month to include Auckland's picturesque islands and marine reserves to your New Zealand itinerary

From visiting islands like Waiheke, Great Barrier and Rangitoto by ferry, to birdwatching and dolphin spotting boat trips, Auckland has tons of unforgettable outdoor experiences on its doorstep.

Add to that the fact that April is an excellent time to visit wine regions around Auckland, and it’s fair to say visiting during this month will keep all kinds of travelers happy.

Where to stay: 5 minutes’ walk from Viaduct Harbor, Heritage Auckland offers excellent facilities, including a heated rooftop pool, tennis court, and spa and sauna.

Want a slice of five-star living? Fable Auckland offers boutique, luxury accommodations in the heart of the city. 

Chameleon in the primeval forests of the Andasibe National Park, Eastern Madagascar © Shutterstock

Chameleon in the primeval forests of Andasibe National Park, Madagascar © Shutterstock

12. Antananarivo, Madagascar 

Why visit: one-of-a-kind wildlife and beautiful beaches
Average temperature: 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C)
Average daily budget: $80-$150

Madagascar — AKA the Great Red Island — is an undeniably majestic destination that should definitely be on your radar

Renowned for its astonishing biodiversity, this Indian Ocean island is a bona fide bucket- list destination. And, given that the month marks the start of a dry, cool season, Madagascar is one of the best places to visit in April. Indeed, as revealed in our guide to when to go to Madagascar, it’s regarded as one of the best times to visit.

To see the island at its most scenic, trek the canyon trail through Isalo National Park. More experienced hikers will also want to tackle the Piscine Naturelle Circuit — be sure to cool off in the pretty, palm-fringed pool along the way.

Famed for its indri lemurs, spending time in Analamazaotra National Park is another essential activity around these parts. Also hosting the world’s highest concentration of frog species, the park boasts a significant chameleon population, giant boehmei day geckos, and 100+ species of bird.

You’ll also want to hit the island’s beautiful beaches — the sand is sublime for stretching out on after swimming and snorkeling in the company of turtles.

Want to experience the full breadth of Madagascar’s natural majesty? Check out our customizable Madagascar itineraries.

Where to stay: elegant Hôtel Restaurant La Ribaudière is set in tropical gardens in the heart of Antananarivo.

For a scenic stay by the sea, check out Eden Lodge on Nosy-Be — the beachfront bungalows here have a laidback, luxurious vibe.

Editor's tip: discover the best ways to get to Madagascar.

Fairy Pools Waterfall Skye Island Scotland © Shutterstock

Fairy Pools waterfall, Skye, Scotland © Shutterstock

13. Isle of Skye, Scotland

Why visit: wildlife-watching, walks in nature and cozy foodie experiences
Average temperature: 39°F to 52°F (4°C to 11°C)
Average daily budget: $100-$150

Mysterious moors and mountains. Craggy cliffs and castles. Windswept beaches and lochs. It’s clear why you voted Scotland’s Isle of Skye one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

It’s also the perfect place to get back to nature in spring, with April heralding the start of puffin-watching boat trips.

Spring is also a prime time to visit the Fairy Glen — an enchanting landscape of emerald valleys, mini mountains and babbling brooks.

To experience even more natural magic, include the Fairy Pools in the south of Scotland in your Scotland itinerary. Not only is this a breathtakingly beautiful site, but it's also one of the best places in Britain for wild swimming

Love fine dining? Skye is celebrated for its shellfish, meats and locally-produced cheeses. Amble the island's picturesque capital, Portree, to find plenty of cozy places to eat, drink and make merry. 

Where to stay: for wonderful views and a warm welcome, try The Beach House, Portree.

Want something quirky and cozy? Consider staying in the Skeabost View Pods. The cute pod cabins have kitchenettes and glorious views.

Chocolate-Hills-Bohol-Philippines

Bohol's Chocolate Hills © ShutterstockdeM

14. Bohol Island, the Philippines

Why visit: tropical beaches, wildlife-watching and hiking
Average temperature: 77°F to 88°F (25°C to 31°C)
Average daily budget: $60-$120

Blessed with paradisiacal beaches and lush forests, Bohol island is part of the Visayas — the central island group of the Philippines.

Around these parts, the dry season runs from December to May, with April presenting the lowest chance of rainfall.  

Thus, Bohol is one of the best places to include in your Philippines itinerary in April if you love relaxing on a tropical beach, as well as wildlife-watching and hiking.

Speaking of which, this is arguably the best time to walk the trails of Bohol’s iconic Chocolate Hills. At this time of year, the 1000+ mounds of this UNESCO World Heritage Site take on their most chocolate-y hue.

As for that unique wildlife, visit the Philippine Tarsier Sanctuary to see the world’s smallest primates in a protected forest. 

Meanwhile, the marine life around Panglao Island offers out-of-this-world snorkeling and diving experiences, which is among the best things to do on Bohol Island

Where to stay: looking for a romantic place to bed down? Epic Suites by Bohol Social Club is stunningly sited, and offers sea views and private pools.

At the other end of the scale, budget travelers would do well to consider Adriana's Place — glorious grounds and great food at a price that will put a smile on your face.

Mondello Beach in Palermo, Sicily

Mondello Beach in Palermo, Sicily © Shutterstock

15. Palermo, Italy

Why visit: peaceful pre-peak season exploration
Average temperature: 54°F to 66°F (12°C to 19°C)
Average daily budget: $80-$150

Capital of Sicily, the city of Palermo melds sumptuous Arab-Norman and Baroque splendor with a distinctive Moorish streak.

Once the most multicultural city in Europe, today Palermo presents itself as a magnificent melange of periods and styles. Put simply, you can’t escape history in Palermo. The city is packed with Arabic cupolas, baroque facades, Byzantine mosaics and Norman relics. 

As for why visit in April, this pre-peak-season month sees an average temperature range of 54°F to 66°F (12°C to 19°C), relatively low rainfall, and low visitor numbers. This makes visiting the city’s top attractions — among them the Catacombe dei Cappuccini and the Cattedrale di Palermo — very pleasant. 

Palermo is also a great base for exploring the wider island. For example, you could take day trips to the Roman site at Solunto, Monreale’s stunning Norman-Byzantine cathedral, or hop on a train to Cefalù — one of the best beaches in Italy, no less.

Editor’s tip: explore the whole island and more with our Southern Italy itineraries.

Where to stay: for atmospheric accommodations in the old city, book a room at the elegant Artemisia Palace Hotel.

Hotel Politeama — located on a stunning street in Palermo’s historic and commercial center — also makes a stylishly convenient base. 

Essaouira beach sunset © Pixabay

 Essaouira beach sunset © Pixabay

16. Essaouira, Morocco

Why visit: windsurfing, kitesurfing and dune adventures
Average temperature: 59°F to 72°F (15°C to 22°C)
Average daily budget: $60-$120

Essaouira — a scenic seaside town in Morocco — is a wonderful April vacation destination for active types. With pleasant temperatures and strong winds – locally known as the alizee – it's a prime location for windsurfing and kitesurfing in spring.

Beyond the water, you can enjoy afternoons strolling past whitewashed, blue-shuttered houses, nipping into art galleries and sipping on mint tea between strolls.

Then, for an exhilarating adventure-meets-nature experience, escape town to explore sand dunes on a quad bike.

Speaking of the dunes, if you fancy venturing from city to desert, you might be interested in our Moroccan itineraries.

Where to stay: want somewhere stylish and cozy? Try RIAD MAROSKO

Villa Maroc Essaouira is also loaded with charm.

Inspired? You can find an itinerary that suits you among our 10-day Morocco itineraries, combining several stunning destinations in Morocco.

spain-square-plaza-de-espana-seville-spain-shutterstock_432201088

Plaza de Espana, Seville, Spain © Shutterstock

17. Seville, Spain

Why visit: festivals, food and culture
Average temperature: 54°F to 77°F (12°C to 25°C)
Average daily budget: $60-$120

Offering an alluring blend of pleasant weather and vibrant festivities, there are tons of reasons to visit Seville in April.

This month marks the beginning of Semana Santa, one of the most important religious festivals in Seville, and throughout Spain.

Following Semana Santa, Seville hosts its Feria de Abril, one of the largest and most colorful festivals in the country. 

We recommend joining the jubilant festivities at the fairgrounds of Real de la Feria — expect flamenco performances, horse parades, traditional music, dancing and Andalusian food. On that subject, if you love food, you’re bound to be tantalized by our customizable Spain itineraries.

Heralding warm sunny days, with an average temperature range of 54°F to 77°F (12°C to 25°C), April is also a beautiful time to visit Seville's parks and gardens, including María Luisa Park and Alcázar Gardens, or to take a cruise along the Guadalquivir River. 

Where to stay: 10 minutes’ drive from Seville's historic center, Silken Al-Andalus Palace Hotel offers four-star resort facilities and great food.

For boutique hotel bliss in Seville’s historic center, Hotel Casa Del Poeta is a top place to stay. Close to Seville Cathedral, its live music performances and courtyard add extra style. For more accommodation options to stay in Seville check out our guide to the best area to stay in Seville.

cable-car-slums-medellin-colombia-shutterstock_694995034

Cable car in Medellin © Shutterstock

18. Medellín, Colombia

Why visit: festivals and flowers in the cultured City of Eternal Spring
Average temperature: 61°F to 82°F (16°C to 28°C)
Average daily budget: $60-$120

Known as the City of Eternal Spring, one of the reasons the cosmopolitan Colombian city of Medellín made it into our best vacation destinations in April is its fabulous Feria de las Flores.

Medellín's most significant cultural event sees the city festooned with flamboyant floral displays, accompanied by parades, concerts and traditional dances. Don't miss the famous Desfile de Silleteros (Silletero Parade) that sees farmers carry elaborately decorated flower arrangements on their backs.

Another interesting April event is the large procession that runs through the city to places of worship during Semana Santa (Holy Week) to celebrate Easter.

Happily, the weather in Medellin in April lives up to its Eternal Spring rep. Falling within the dry season, temperatures are mild and skies are sunny. 

Perfect for meandering Medellín's lush Jardín Botánico, such conditions also invite visitors to enjoy day trips to Parque Arví — a sprawling natural reserve located just outside of Medellín. 

By choosing one of our Colombia itineraries you can enjoy a balance of hiking trails, eco-tours and outdoor activities among lush forests and waterfalls. 

Where to stay: for 4-star style in the center of town, try Art Hotel Medellin.

Hoping to bag a bargain? Yellow House Hostel is as friendly as its name suggests, and cozy with it. What’s more, the tour desk is on hand to organize rafting and paragliding trips, and guests can chill in the charming garden.

Al Azhar mosque in Cairo, Egypt © Shutterstock

Al Azhar mosque in Cairo, Egypt © Shutterstock

19. Cairo, Egypt

Why visit: mild weather that invites comfortable exploration of ancient wonders
Average temperature: 57°F to 84°F (14°C to 29°C)
Average daily budget: $80-$150

April falls in Cairo's spring season, with mild temperatures — an average range of 59°F to 82°F (15°C to 28°C) — that are far more comfortable for exploring the city and outlying landmarks than the extreme heat of summer.

In the city itself, you could dive into Cairo's vibrant street life by exploring Khan El-Khalili — one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East. Or how about taking a walking tour to discover Islamic architectural marvels that date back to the medieval period? 

Of course, you'll want to tour the awe-inspiring pyramids of Giza and book a scenic cruise on the Nile. All this and more can be enjoyed on one of our customizable Egypt itineraries.

Where to stay: for budget stays in downtown Cairo, consider the Heritage Hostel Cairo.

Alternatively, if you’re looking to live like a latter-day Pharaoh in Old Cairo, check out the no-limits luxury of Four Seasons Cairo At The First Residence.

Road to Hana Maui, Hawaiian islands © Vacclav/Shutterstock

Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii © Vacclav/Shutterstock

20. Maui, Hawaii

Why visit: whale-watching, all-out adventure and blissful beach breaks
Average temperature: 66°F to 82°F (19°C to 28°C)
Average daily budget: $150-$250

Boasting warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine free from the heat and humidity of the summer months, April is one of the best months to visit Maui.

April also marks the tail end of the humpback whale season in Maui — an unmissable activity if you’re on the island during their migration period.

April is also ideal for a beach vacation — picture yourself with a cocktail in hand on the likes of Ka'anapali Beach, Wailea Beach and Makena Beach, where you can also swim, snorkel and surf sublime waters.

The adventurers among you will also want to take the scenic road to Hana, one of Maui's most iconic drives, which winds along the island's rugged coastline. 

Or how about hiking to the summit of Haleakalā National Park to witness a spectacular sunrise, or exploring the lush valleys and waterfalls of the 'Iao Valley State Park?

Editor’s tip: for overviews of all six freely-visited islands, and more on what to see and do in Maui, read our first-timers-guide to the Hawaiian islands.

Where to stay: less than five minutes’ drive to Kahului Airport and Hoaloha Park beaches, Marriott Maui Kahului Airport boasts an outdoor swimming pool and top service.

Planning to drive the epic Hana route? Hire a jeep from Zazu Campers. It comes with an easy-to-set-up luxury tent so you can sleep in style along the way.

Want more spring inspiration? Read up on the best places to visit in spring around the world.

You could also use our handy travel ideas tool to kick-start creating your perfect trip.

Joanne Owen

written by
Joanne Owen

updated 30.07.2024

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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