Is this the prettiest place to go for a spring holiday this year?
The evenings are beginning to get longer and the countryside will soon burst into colourful bloom as the scent of fresh blossoms fills the air, along with the sound of adorable bleating lambs. Spring is in the air, and the arrival of the warmer weather always has us craving a holiday.
When spring arrives, so do wonderful opportunities for a getaway across the UK and Europe, as flowers are blooming and foliage is bursting into life, making the landscapes across the continent even more spectacular than usual.
The mild weather is also a bonus, allowing leisurely sightseeing without the worries that come with the chilly weather of winter in the UK or the scorching temperatures of summer in southern Europe. Getting away on holiday in the spring means you'll also avoid the summer crowds and peak-season prices.
The best spring holidays are tailored to make the most of the season, with outdoor events and visits to colourful gardens. We have a selection of fantastic spring getaways which do exactly that, from wildlife spotting in Scotland to wine-tasting in Portugal's Douro Valley and visits to the Netherlands' most breathtaking gardens.
Take a look at our selection of the best spring holidays for some inspiration.
Enjoy the peaceful Norfolk Broads and see the gardens at Sandringham
Norfolk is a wonderful part of the UK for a spring escape. Its nature reserves like Titchwell Marsh and the Thorpe Marshes will be teeming with wildlife at this time of year and the weather will be perfect for long, leisurely walks along the coast.
Our trip to Norfolk with the historian Lucy Worsley shows you the best of the country in spring. You'll explore the county with three different railway journeys and a cruise on a paddle steamer along the pretty Norfolk Broads, which will be bursting with wildlife. You'll also visit Sandringham, the Royals' country retreat, where you'll hear a talk from Lucy and visit the formal gardens while they're at their colourful best.
Spot springtime wildlife on the Isles of Scilly and the Channel Isles
Another great option for a spring getaway close to home is to the Isles of Scilly and the Channel Islands. With an abundance of marine life and migrant birds, such as Atlantic grey seals, gannets, cormorants and puffins from April onwards, these islands, although beautiful at any time of year, really do stand out in the spring.
We have a trip in May that will take you to the Isles of Scilly and Guernsey when the wildlife is thriving. You'll explore St Mary's, the largest of the Scilly Isles, with a visit to the capital, Hugh Town, where you'll go for a coastal walk or enjoy some delicious catch of the day. On Guernsey, you'll have the chance to see the elegant Georgian and Regency architecture of St Peter Port before continuing to Normandy in northern France.
Discover the untamed natural beauty of Scotland's Hebrides
A great UK spring staycation to add to your wish list is a visit to the Hebrides in Scotland. These famously pretty islands boast stunning white-sand beaches, and while good weather can never be guaranteed, the spring brings with it a chance of bright sunny days when these pristine stretches of sand will look almost Caribbean.
The Hebrides are a joy to explore in the spring, with plenty of wildlife to be spotted, including minke whales, orcas, and puffins, along with many different kinds of bird. Prima has a special cruise of Scotland's Hebrides islands where you'll sail on the stylish ship Bolette and will have plenty of chances to spot incredible wildlife in between visits to the islands' most intriguing archaeological attractions.
Sail along Portugal's Douro River and taste local wines
If the longer days and sunnier weather have you dreaming of travelling a bit further afield, there are a range of lovely spring holiday destinations waiting for you across Europe too. How about a trip to Portugal's Douro Valley, where you can sample fine Port wines and explore the enchanting city of Porto with its medieval old town before the summer crowds arrive?
This delightful river is flanked by hills dotted with riverside towns, vineyards and Quintas — historic wine estates where you can learn about the region's winemaking history and taste their produce. You'll have several tastings included on Prima's Douro cruise, as well as visits to Porto and several enchanting towns which you can comfortably explore by foot in the pleasant spring temperatures.
Enjoy wine tastings and visit the glorious Lake Bled in Slovenia
Another wonderful option for a European spring getaway is Slovenia, a beautifully green country that really comes into its own in the spring months. You'll find sprawling national parks, lush forests and pristine lakes bursting with life and blossoming with flowers. It's also a great season for wine tastings, with vineyards springing to life across the country.
On Prima's six-day tour of Slovenia you'll see the iconic Lake Bled surrounded by the snowcapped Julian Alps, take a scenic drive through Triglav National Park and continue on to Vipava Valley for some wine tasting.
Witness the fascinating natural and historical wonders of Türkiye
If you're looking to travel a bit further east to experience distinct culture, cuisines and landscapes, a springtime trip to Türkiye is always worth considering. The temperatures here in spring are mild and manageable, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring historical sites without the intense heat of summer.
Our week-long spring tour of Türkiye takes you to the country's best historical monuments and natural marvels, including the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, the intriguing calcium cliffs of Pamukkale and captivating Cappadocia, a famous region known for its extraordinary rock formations and sprawling underground cities.
See the splendour of Holland's gardens in spring bloom
Spring is undoubtedly the best time to explore the Netherlands, when the country's many famous gardens transform into vibrant tapestries with tulip fields bursting into beautiful bloom. These include the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens, where an incredible seven million flowers cover 80 acres in a kaleidoscope of colour.
You'll visit Keukenhof Gardens on Prima's five-day springtime cruise, where you'll be joined by Gardeners' World presenter Adam Frost, who'll also give a talk and Q&A session aboard your ship. As well as Keukenhof you'll also get the chance to see the 19 historic windmills which line the canal banks at Kinderdijk and spend time in Amsterdam, with its iconic canals and exceptional art museums.
So, if you're feeling ready to put the long, cold winter behind you, why not start the new season in style by booking a spring getaway? Whether you choose a spring staycation or a trip further afield, a holiday at this time of year is bound to get you ready for the warmer months and put a spring in your step.
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