Top 10 best cities to visit in spring
Spring is a wonderful time of year for travel, especially if your vacation falls during this season.
The Telegraph guides you on where to go to make the most of your vacation.
Madrid
Often hailed as the city of summer, with its bars and restaurants bustling with visitors until the early hours, Spain's capital is an excellent choice for this time of year. El Retiro, or Parque del Buen Retiro for a more formal address, ranks among Europe's finest urban parks, offering half a square mile of open space where the Rosaleda (rose garden) adds to your springtime travel delight.
Amsterdam
Spring blooms vividly at the renowned Keukenhof Garden, situated 20 miles southwest of Amsterdam in Lisse. It hosts perhaps the most picturesque springtime display on the European continent, with approximately seven million flowers bursting into bloom.
Prague
The Czech capital contends with Keukenhof for the European springtime crown, particularly due to the burst of color on Petrin Hill overlooking the Mala Strana district, on the western bank of the Vltava River. As you ascend this 427-foot (130-meter) hill, the city noise fades away amidst cherry blossom-laden branches, offering spectacular views from the top observation tower.
Edinburgh
Scotland's capital boasts the majestic Arthur's Seat, offering panoramic views from its 823-foot (251-meter) summit. While it may not match Petrin Hill for pink blossoms in March and April, climbing to the top on a spring afternoon remains one of the most delightful urban experiences in the UK.
Oslo
A springtime rendezvous with Norway's capital promises exquisite beauty in Ekeberg Park, a serene spot on the slopes above the port's east side. Here, wildflowers bloom amidst striking sculptures, ranging from Rodin's classic nude "Eve" (1881) to Oslo's own Hilde Maelum's ghostly "Concave Face" (2006).
Copenhagen
Since 1843, Tivoli Gardens has charmed visitors with its blend of theme park excitement and intricate ornamentation. Its allure extends from the nostalgic Ferris wheel and playful Nimb fountains to roller coasters like the 48 mph Demon, all amidst the swirl of springtime fragrances in the Hanging Gardens.
Milan
Primarily renowned for its elegant spring fashion, Milan also offers traditional springtime allure in the verdant grandeur of Parco Sempione. Hidden corners and private gardens, showcased in the Secret Monasteries of the Renaissance tour organized by Casa Baglioni Hotel, further enrich the city's springtime charm.
Florence
The capital of Tuscany welcomes spring in the Boboli Gardens, former stomping grounds of the influential Medici family. These gardens, nestled on the southern bank of the Arno River, still hold the essence of their ancestral Pitti Palace, offering a serene retreat amidst the city's bustle.
Valletta
With its imposing harbor and closely clustered buildings, Valletta may not be famous for vast green spaces. However, a stroll through the Florian Gardens, nestled beneath the city walls, offers a glimpse into the city's mysterious history amidst blooming flora.
Valencia
April beckons for a leisurely stroll through the Turia Gardens, a vibrant park adorning the city with its colors and beauty. Once the path of the Turia River, this park now spans six miles, offering locals and visitors alike a serene space for biking, jogging, or simply unwinding amidst the cityscape.
Earlier, TravelWise wrote about the best places to spend a budget vacation in the United States in the spring.