Six Perfect City Breaks for Spring Sunshine and Natural Beauty
Spring emerges as the quintessential season for a city break, presenting the allure of awakening urban landscapes without the summer's bustling crowds or inflated prices. From enjoying the cherry blossom in Kyoto to swimming in Copenhagen's harbour baths, these cities are ideal for a spring holiday, offering a tranquil reset and vibrant cultural experiences.
Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms and Serene Temples
For many, the arrival of spring is synonymous with cherry blossom season. Kyoto provides a beautiful way to experience Japan's season with its backdrop of ancient temples and shrines. Although the cherry blossoms attract numerous tourists, a trip to Kyoto should remain on your itinerary. A serene respite can be found at the Kyoto Botanical Garden, one of the largest in Japan, housing over 12,000 different plant species, making it a fantastic place to celebrate the new season flora.
As a city known for its hundreds of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, a visit to Kyoto offers chances to reset and refresh. While crowds are likely at popular temples like Kinkaku-ji, consider an early sunrise hike through the bright orange torii gates to Fushimi Inari shrine for a more peaceful experience.
Copenhagen: Harbour Baths and Food Markets
Spring is possibly the best time to enjoy Copenhagen's vibrant neighbourhoods, beautiful parks, and interesting cultural scene. Shake off the winter hibernation with a cold splash at one of Copenhagen's harbour baths, such as the Kastrup Sea Bath, nicknamed 'The Snail' for its spiral shape, or Island Brygge, which encompasses five pools.
It is also warm enough to thoroughly enjoy Copenhagen's food markets. Torvehallerne is known for high-quality produce and specialty goods like smørrebrød, an open sandwich. Alternatively, embrace the Danish eco ethos at Reffen, a market home to over 50 sustainable food start-ups, such as Nordic Hotdog, who are revamping Danish classics. If art is your interest, head to the National Gallery of Denmark for the most comprehensive exhibition of Michelangelo in 150 years.
Mexico City: Jacaranda Trees and Cultural Delights
Mexico City is a heady destination for a spring city break. From March, the weather is pleasant, and streets are lined by the purple blossom of jacaranda trees. Expect a varied and vibrant itinerary packed full of museums, archaeological sites, and artistic delights, not forgetting tantalising food and drink offerings.
A slice of Mexico City's cultural scene can be found at The Palacio de Bellas Artes, a grand concert hall and art centre. Its dramatic murals by world-famous Mexican artists, including José Clemente Orozco and Diego Rivera, offer a unique window into the city's rich history and identity. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to food, but as a city that takes breakfast seriously, make sure to join the locals at a fonda, casual eateries serving home-style cooking.
Marseille: Bohemian Quarters and Historic Basilicas
Known as the city of 100 neighbourhoods, each corner is distinct and blends ancient history with edgy culture. Marseille's colourful quirks come to life with the start of the spring sun. No place shows off the city's hip way of life more than Cours Julien, a vibrant bohemian quarter home to weekly food, flower, and antique book markets and bold street art.
For a taste of the old, climb up to the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde, known as the Bonne Mère. This lavish 19th-century Romano-Byzantine basilica is an architectural and artistic wonder with vivid marble, mosaics, and murals. Its marvellous panoramic views make it a must-visit.
Istanbul: Grand Bazaars and Tulip Festivals
Take advantage of the season's more moderate temperatures to explore this city's beguiling blend of Europe and Asia. Travel back to the Ottoman Empire with a visit to the Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest markets in the world, comprising over 60 streets showcasing a splendour of textiles, jewellery, and spices.
To taste authentic food, grab a seat at a meyhane, a traditional Turkish restaurant, where you will be offered a flavoursome meze paired with raki, a Turkish spirit made from grapes and aniseed. Taking a trip in April ensures you do not miss the blossoming of Istanbul's millions of tulips, planted every year for the annual tulip festival, coating the city's parks and avenues.
Corfu Town: Unesco Heritage and Easter Traditions
With a charming old town brimming with history and culture, alongside the glorious backdrop of the Ionian Sea, Corfu Town is a joy in spring. As it is fully accessible on foot, you can enjoy the Unesco World Heritage city at your own pace. While meandering through its labyrinth of cobbled streets, make sure to stop at the Church of St Spyridon for a showcase of Byzantine beauty.
For dramatic views, head up to the Old Fortress, which dates to the 6th century. Before heading back into the old town, dip your toe in the crystal water at Faliraki, a small beach with a swimming platform. If you time your trip to catch Corfu's lively Easter traditions, you will witness exciting events such as the smashing of Botides, clay pots, as locals warn off bad spirits to welcome the new season.
