Recently updated on January 20th, 2020 at 07:35 pm
Some destinations are best explored out of high season; milder climates, fewer crowds and the vitality of nature all come together in springtime to make many parts of the world more enticing than ever. From verdant valleys to vibrant cities, these destinations are prime places to travel in spring.
The Loire Valley, France
With less tourists passing through, the Loire Valley is a peaceful escape in the springtime. And with cool weather interspersed with sunshine, the climate is especially refreshing, making the days of exploration, on foot or by bicycle, a real joy. Spring flowers bloom across the countryside, towns are dotted with colourful foliage and trees are lush and green. Stop by the valley’s 17th century L’Etape Gourmande farm to step inside an authentic French farmhouse set amidst sunflower fields, and try some of the regional food including the farm’s own goat’s cheese, best enjoyed alongside a glass of local wine.
Travel to the Loire Valley in spring on The Treasures of France itinerary.
Vienna, Austria
With mild weather and fewer visitors than in high season, spring in Vienna is a delight and the ideal time for sightseeing. Throughout May, Austria is in full bloom and Vienna is no exception with parks and gardens across the city coming to life. Hirschstetten Botanical Gardens has the most impressive displays, with around 360,000 spring flowers. May is also the beginning of Vienna’s festival season, welcoming a whole host of food fairs and outdoor concerts across the capital. Wander between the city’s historic sites and soak up local life in a Viennese coffee house.
Take the time to explore Vienna on the European Marvels journey with Trafalgar.
Beijing, China
Cooler temperatures make Beijing a pleasure to explore at this time of year. Hop between Tiananmen Square and the city’s parks and temples to see these sites when the trees are full of blossom. Explore the 180 acres of courtyards, palaces, pavilions and gardens that the UNESCO World Heritage Forbidden City encompasses, and take a rickshaw ride between neighbourhoods, stopping off at a traditional tea house to experience a revered Chinese art.
Visit Beijing on Trafalgar’s Classic China itinerary.
New Orleans, North America
Widely believed to be the best time to visit New Orleans, springtime offers a comfortably cool climate, with celebrations taking the city by storm. Whether your trip coincides with a festival or not, delve into the vibrant music scene by catching a live jazz performance, and tuck into the city’s famous Creole and Cajun fare.
Discover New Orleans on the Tastes and Sounds of the South itinerary.
The Dades Valley, Morocco
By travelling to the Dades Valley in May, visitors will see why this region is also known as the valley of roses. Each spring, these flowers are harvested to produce rose water, rose oil and perfume. The rose season culminates with a Rose Festival when, after the harvest, thousands of people gather to dance, eat and watch a procession. Aside from these annual celebrations, the highlight for many visitors to the valley in spring is walking through the idyllic rose-filled landscape.
Visit The Dades Valley in spring by joining Trafalgar’s Best of Morocco trip.
Image credits: cover photo of the Forbidden City in Beijing during springtime © iStock / LiJingwang. The Loire Valley © iStock / Elisa Locci. Vienna in spring © iStock / Free Artist. Beijing in spring © iStock / Vitaly Edush. New Orleans © iStock / Sam Camp. The Dades Valley in Morocco © Flickr / Benh Lieu Song.