Holidays in April offer UK travellers a strong balance between improving weather, competitive pricing and reduced crowds compared to peak summer. Positioned between the end of winter and the start of high season, April is one of the most strategic months for both short-haul and selected long-haul travel.
Whether you are planning an Easter break, a spring city escape or early Mediterranean sunshine, this guide outlines where to go, how much to budget and how to book effectively.
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Why April Is a Smart Month to Travel
April delivers several measurable advantages for flexible travellers.
- Lower prices than July and August
- Mild, comfortable temperatures across southern Europe
- Quieter resorts outside Easter school holidays
- Longer daylight hours than winter months
- Better availability for flights and accommodation
For UK travellers not tied strictly to Easter school dates, early or late April can provide particularly strong value.
Best European Destinations for Holidays in April
Spain
Southern Spain and the Canary Islands perform reliably in April. Mainland regions such as the Costa del Sol offer pleasant temperatures around 20°C to 25°C, while the Canary Islands provide slightly warmer conditions.
April is ideal for sightseeing and poolside relaxation without peak summer heat.
Portugal
The Algarve begins warming up in April, making it suitable for coastal walks, golf holidays and early beach days. Prices remain below summer levels, especially outside Easter.
Greece
Greek islands start reopening fully for the season in April. While sea temperatures may still feel cool, it is an excellent time for cultural exploration and quieter resort experiences.
Italy
Italy is one of the strongest April destinations. Cities such as Rome, Florence and Venice are far more comfortable to explore before summer crowds arrive.
City Breaks in April
April is one of the best months for European city breaks due to moderate temperatures and blooming spring scenery.
Paris
Comfortable walking conditions and manageable tourist numbers make April ideal for a long weekend.
Amsterdam
April coincides with spring flowers and pleasant canal-side weather, making it a popular short-break choice.
Barcelona
Barcelona offers cultural attractions and coastal access with mild temperatures before peak summer tourism.
Long-Haul Holidays in April
April also aligns well with selected long-haul destinations.
Dubai
April still provides warm beach weather before the extreme summer heat arrives. Early booking helps secure competitive hotel rates.
United States
Spring conditions make April suitable for city breaks and road trips across many regions.
Caribbean
April falls toward the end of the dry season in many Caribbean destinations, offering strong sunshine and competitive pricing before summer demand shifts.
Average Cost of Holidays in April
Pricing depends heavily on Easter timing, which varies each year.
- Short-haul return flights: £40 to £150
- 7-night European package holiday: £350 to £850 per person
- Luxury Mediterranean stay: £1,000+ per person
- Long-haul holiday (10 nights): £1,000 to £2,700 per person
Prices typically increase during Easter school holidays but drop again afterward.
Is April Warm Enough for a Beach Holiday?
April can be suitable for beach holidays in southern Europe, though conditions vary by region.
- Canary Islands: 22°C to 26°C
- Southern Spain: 20°C to 24°C
- Portugal: 18°C to 23°C
- Greece: 18°C to 23°C
While sea temperatures may still be cool, hotel pools and sunbathing conditions are generally comfortable.
Easter Holidays in April
Easter often falls in April, creating increased demand for family-friendly destinations. Resorts in Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands see noticeable price rises during this period.
To secure preferred accommodation during Easter school holidays, booking at least four to six months in advance is advisable.
How to Find the Best April Holiday Deals
- Travel outside Easter dates if possible
- Book 3 to 6 months in advance for best flight pricing
- Compare package deals with independent bookings
- Consider midweek departures
- Monitor airline sales during winter months
Flexibility of even a few days can create meaningful savings.
Travel Considerations for April
Weather Variability
Northern Europe can still experience unpredictable spring weather. Pack layers when travelling outside southern Europe.
Passport Validity
Ensure your passport meets post-Brexit European entry requirements, including minimum validity periods.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance protects against cancellations and potential travel disruption during transitional weather periods.
Holidays in April vs May
May generally offers slightly warmer temperatures and marginally higher prices. April can deliver better overall value, especially before Easter demand increases.
For UK travellers seeking early sunshine and manageable crowds, April remains one of the most strategically balanced months to travel.
Final Thoughts on Holidays in April
Holidays in April combine competitive pricing, improving weather and broader availability compared to peak summer months. Whether you are planning a city break, a Mediterranean escape or a long-haul adventure, April offers flexibility and value.
By avoiding Easter peak weeks where possible and booking strategically, UK travellers can secure high-quality holidays at significantly lower costs than peak season departures.
If you are considering an early spring break, April should be firmly on your shortlist.