A travel expert from the consumer champion Which? has identified seven global destinations that typically enjoy glorious sunshine and warmth during April, offering a welcome respite for Britons weary of prolonged grey skies. Several of these locations are conveniently situated within Europe, while others promise more exotic, longer journeys.
Expert Recommendations for Spring Sunshine
Travel journalist Jo Rhodes highlighted that these areas regularly experience temperatures soaring to 31°C in April. She remarked, "It's been a long winter, and if the promise of summer feels distant, an April holiday can deliver a much-needed dose of vitamin D." She further noted that the Easter bank holidays provide an excellent opportunity to maximise annual leave for an extended escape from daily routines.
1. Bali, Indonesia
This Indonesian island chain, renowned for its sun-drenched coastlines and stunning temples, continues to captivate visitors. Travellers are drawn to marvel at the floating Hindu water temple of Ulun Danu Beratan or immerse themselves in the sacred springs of Tirta Empul. The highlands of Ubud beckon with stepped rice terraces and lush rainforests. April signifies the start of the dry season, offering balmy, sunny conditions with peaks of 31°C, all before the tourist crowds arrive.
2. Málaga, Spain
Jo explained, "The Andalusian city is not merely a gateway to the Costa Del Sol but a destination in its own right." Visitors should explore the 11th-century honey-coloured Alcazaba fortress, featuring horseshoe Moorish arches, tiled patios, and ornate gardens, with a Roman theatre at its base. April temperatures approach 20°C, and Easter is especially enchanting due to the Semana Santa processions with decorated thrones filling the streets.
3. Lisbon, Portugal
Which? championed this "laid-back waterfront city" as one of the best spring spots, with April temperatures around 19°C. Jo described the Portuguese capital's old town in bloom, bathed in eight hours of daily sunshine. The iconic yellow number 28 tram rattles up to the hilltop Alfama district, where café-hopping through steep, cobbled streets reveals bougainvillaea in vibrant pinks, purples, and yellows adorning balconies and doorways.
4. Bordeaux, France
Jo stated, "Bordeaux is one of the cheapest spots we found to fly to this April, and there's more to this city than wine." With April temperatures hitting 18°C, its "Little Paris" nickname is justified by a tree-lined riverside promenade offering one of Europe's prettiest walks without crowds. Visitors can wander the ivy-blanketed Chartrons neighbourhood, admire the Gothic Saint-Louis church, and browse boutiques on Rue Notre Dame.
5. Sicily, Italy
As the Mediterranean's largest island, Sicily features picturesque hilltop villages, well-preserved ancient sites, and abundant white sandy shores, with temperatures around 18°C. Jo noted that April days are "getting warmer and longer" yet remain "much less crowded than in the busy summer months."
6. Tbilisi, Georgia
For those venturing beyond Europe, Georgia is climbing travellers' bucket lists. Jo recommended this 18°C destination for its majestic mountains, hilltop monasteries, and thriving food scene on Asia's doorstep. She advised, "Go in April to avoid summer heat, especially if visiting the lowlands." Tbilisi's dramatic valley setting and colourful Old Town, with cobblestone streets and dome-shaped bathhouses, are sure to dazzle.
7. Kyoto, Japan
Japan's imperial capital becomes enchanting during April's cherry blossom season, with temperatures around 17°C. Jo recommended not missing a stroll through the nearby bamboo forest or drifting down the Oi River on a houseboat. The Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, home to over 100 Japanese macaque monkeys, is a prime spot for wildlife viewing.
