Where to Travel in April: Top Destinations to Visit This Month

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Where to Travel in April: Top Destinations to Visit This Month

April is the sweet spot of spring—a time of renewal, blossoming landscapes, fewer crowds, and milder temperatures in many parts of the world. Whether you're a beach lover, culture seeker, or adventure enthusiast, April offers a variety of travel opportunities to suit every taste and budget. In this article, we’ve rounded up some of the best destinations to explore in April 2025, complete with tips on what to do, what to expect weather-wise, and why each spot shines this time of year.

1. Japan – Cherry Blossom Season in Full Bloom

Why now?
April is arguably the best month to visit Japan thanks to its world-famous cherry blossom season. While sakura season starts in March in the south, by April the blooms are spreading through Tokyo, Kyoto, and beyond.

Top things to do:

  • Stroll under cherry blossoms at Ueno Park (Tokyo) or Maruyama Park (Kyoto).

  • Enjoy hanami (flower viewing) picnics with locals.

  • Take a day trip to Mount Fuji—often still snow-capped, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Weather: Mild spring weather (15–22°C), perfect for sightseeing.

Travel tip: Book accommodations in advance—this is peak tourist season for Japan.

2. Netherlands – Tulip Fields and King’s Day Vibes

Why now?
April is the peak season for tulips, and the Netherlands turns into a sea of color. Plus, King’s Day (April 27) is one of the liveliest national celebrations in Europe.

Top things to do:

  • Visit Keukenhof Gardens near Lisse, where over 7 million tulips bloom.

  • Cycle through the iconic tulip fields of Noordoostpolder.

  • Celebrate King’s Day in Amsterdam—expect orange-clad crowds, boat parties, and flea markets.

Weather: Cool to mild (10–17°C), with occasional showers—pack a raincoat just in case.

Travel tip: Train tickets to Keukenhof and King’s Day events can sell out quickly—plan ahead.

3. Morocco – The Perfect Shoulder Season

Why now?
April is ideal for visiting Morocco: warm but not scorching hot, with comfortable desert nights and vibrant city life.

Top things to do:

  • Wander through the medinas of Marrakech or Fes.

  • Take a camel trek into the Sahara Desert.

  • Hike in the Atlas Mountains, which are green and blooming in spring.

Weather: Warm during the day (20–30°C), cool at night.

Travel tip: Bring layers—temperatures can vary greatly between day and night.

4. Washington, D.C. – Cherry Blossoms with a Side of History

Why now?
The National Cherry Blossom Festival usually runs through early to mid-April, drawing visitors from around the U.S. and beyond.

Top things to do:

  • Walk around the Tidal Basin, surrounded by blooming cherry trees.

  • Visit the Smithsonian museums and monuments.

  • Attend cultural events, parades, and fireworks as part of the festival.

Weather: Spring temperatures (10–20°C), with a chance of showers.

Travel tip: Use public transport to avoid traffic during festival season.

5. Greece – Fewer Crowds, Stunning Landscapes

Why now?
April is a fantastic month to explore Greece before the summer crowds hit. The weather is warming up, and everything is in bloom.

Top things to do:

  • Explore the ancient ruins of Athens without the summer heat.

  • Island-hop in the Cyclades (Santorini, Mykonos) before peak season.

  • Hike through the Samaria Gorge in Crete.

Weather: Mild and sunny (17–23°C), though sea temperatures are still cool.

Travel tip: Easter is a big event in Greece (this year it's on April 20), with unique traditions and celebrations—plan accordingly.

6. Costa Rica – Last Chance Before the Rainy Season

Why now?
April marks the end of the dry season in Costa Rica, making it a great time to enjoy lush jungles, beaches, and wildlife.

Top things to do:

  • Zipline through Monteverde’s cloud forest.

  • Spot sloths and monkeys in Manuel Antonio National Park.

  • Surf the Pacific waves in Tamarindo or Santa Teresa.

Weather: Warm and sunny (25–35°C), especially on the Pacific side.

Travel tip: Rain may start toward the end of the month—stick to the Pacific coast for drier conditions.

7. Portugal – Sunshine, Surf, and Soulful Cities

Why now?
Portugal in April is warm, affordable, and far less crowded than in summer. Whether you're into wine, waves, or walking tours, there’s something for everyone.

Top things to do:

  • Sip port wine in Porto’s riverside cellars.

  • Wander the colorful streets of Lisbon and ride Tram 28.

  • Surf in Peniche or explore the Algarve coastline.

Weather: Pleasantly warm (16–24°C), with lots of sunshine.

Travel tip: Portugal is still budget-friendly compared to many other Western European destinations.

8. Thailand – Songkran Festival Fun

Why now?
Thailand celebrates its New Year (Songkran) in mid-April with one of the biggest water fights in the world. It’s a wild, joyful cultural experience.

Top things to do:

  • Join the Songkran festivities in Bangkok or Chiang Mai.

  • Relax on the islands of Koh Samui or Koh Tao.

  • Explore temples and street food markets in the north.

Weather: Hot and humid (30–38°C). Stay hydrated!

Travel tip: Expect to get wet! Protect your electronics in waterproof pouches.

Bonus Ideas for April:

  • Spain (Andalusia): Visit Seville or Granada during Semana Santa (Holy Week) for stunning processions and cultural depth.

  • South Korea: Cherry blossoms bloom in Seoul and Busan—similar vibe to Japan but less crowded.

  • South Africa (Cape Town): Autumn brings wine harvests, whale spotting, and cooler hiking weather.

Final Thoughts

April is one of the best months of the year for travel—it’s full of possibilities. You can catch the end of the dry season in tropical destinations, enjoy blooming flowers in temperate zones, or beat the crowds in European hotspots gearing up for summer. Whether you crave cultural immersion, natural beauty, or just a relaxing getaway, now’s the time to go.

So, where will you head this April?

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