Readers' Favourite Early Spring Trips to Southern Europe
As winter lingers in the UK, many seek respite in the warmer climes of southern Europe. Readers have shared their top picks for early spring getaways, highlighting destinations in France, Italy, and Germany that offer scenic beauty, cultural richness, and a welcome escape from the cold.
Cycle the Greenways of Annecy
Saint-Jorioz in Haute-Savoie, France, provides a perfect springtime lift. Located on the shore of Lake Annecy, it's a short bus ride from the city but offers superior lake and mountain views with less crowds. Visitors can hike to surrounding peaks like the Col de l'Arpettaz or cycle on excellent greenways. Relax by the cool blue alpine water, and explore the nearby Les Bauges Unesco Geopark. The region, which joined France in 1860, boasts Italian-influenced cuisine, adding to its charm.
Naples: A Glimpse of Warmth in Early Spring
Naples, Italy, may not be the most traditionally beautiful city, but it offers a fascinating glimpse of warmth in early spring. Unlike Florence or Turin, Naples is a lived-in city with a long history and rich culinary tradition. Walk along the bustling Spaccanapoli to experience Neapolitan life, and visit nearby world-class sites like Pompeii, Herculaneum, Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento, and the islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida. Accessible by train from London via Paris and Turin or Milan in about 15 hours, it's a convenient escape.
Ferry to Corsica for Wildflower Bliss
Take the Eurostar from London to Marseille, then a comfortable night-ferry to Bastia, Corsica. From there, catch the scenic mountain railway to explore the island's unspoiled interior and coastal regions. Mid to late spring is ideal, with snow-melt replenishing streams and waterfalls, sunny yet pleasant weather, hillsides blanketed with wildflowers, and locals in refreshed moods. It's a serene getaway from the UK's wintry weather.
Freiburg: Germany's Greenest, Sunniest City
Travel by Eurostar to Paris and high-speed train to Freiburg, Germany's warmest and greenest city. Enjoy Swabian classics like käsespätzle, tacos at YepaYepa, or drinks at Hausbrauerei Feierling's beer garden. Explore the Black Forest's highlights, such as Triberg's cuckoo clocks and waterfalls, and the treetop walk in Bad Wildbad. With a Konus guest card, visitors get free transport around the region, making it an eco-friendly and convenient trip.
Tiny Beaches Near Nice
Villefranche-sur-Mer, just east of Nice, offers historic charm, a deepwater bay, and proximity to coast and mountains. Take the TGV to Nice and a local train for easy access. Early spring is warm enough for a dip at secluded beaches like Plage de la Darse or Plage de la Fosse on Cap Ferrat, with excellent cafes and restaurants adding to the appeal.
Lemons and Light on the Côte d'Azur
Menton on the Côte d'Azur is perfect for early April, with pastel-coloured buildings, French-Italian meals, and a calm blue bay for paddling. Trek in the hills to explore Maison Gannac, a citrus farm growing the renowned Menton lemon, known for its flavour and aroma. It's a sunny retreat just before the Italian border.
Boat Trip Along the Moselle in Germany
The Moselle valley in April is stunning, starting in Trier with its Porta Nigra gate and following the river to Burg Landshut for panoramic views. Take boat trips to Cochem and a chairlift to the Pinnerkreuz viewpoint. Early spring means wildflower-strewn meadows and fewer visitors, with castles and cable cars entertaining children and Moselle rieslings pleasing adults. Finish in Koblenz with traditional breweries.
Coastal Paths Near Perpignan
Take the Eurostar to Paris and TGV to Perpignan, then a local train to Port-Vendres. Early spring suits this working harbour, with coastal paths to Collioure offering sunny walks. The Pyréneés-Orientales coast is one of France's sunniest areas, with light doing much of the work even out of season.
Avignon: A Hazily Golden City
Avignon, en route to Sicily, offers winding medieval streets, the Palais des Papes, and the Rhône river. Explore the Pont Saint-Bénézet and enjoy walkable areas with traditional restaurants. In the off-season, it's warm, uncrowded, and soul-nourishing, perfect for relaxing and soaking up history.
These reader tips highlight diverse early spring escapes, from alpine lakes to coastal towns, all offering a break from UK winter weather. Share your own travel recommendations for a chance to win a holiday voucher and inspire others to explore southern Europe's delights.
