8 Best Spring Travel Destinations for Spring Festivals and Blooms in 2025

Spring’s Global Celebration of Festivals and Blooms

Spring is when the world wakes up from winter and comes alive with vibrant festivals, breathtaking flowers, and perfect travel weather. Some of the best spring travel destinations take advantage of this, providing impressive getaways and ideas for adventure seekers, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike. If you’re searching for the best spring travel destinations that offer a mix of stunning landscapes, lively spring festivals, and immersive experiences, this list has you covered.

From the citrus-scented coasts of Italy to the cherry blossom-lined paths of Japan, each destination showcases the spring season’s magic in a unique way. Whether you’re looking for romantic excursions, revitalization, or an unforgettable local cultural immersion, these places promise one-of-a-kind travel.

Here are the best spring travel destinations for festivals and blooms in 2025—mark your calendars and get ready to experience the season at its finest!

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Best Spring Travel Destinations for Spring Festivals

1. Amalfi Coast & Monterosso al Mare, Italy

Known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and picturesque villages, the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy shines as one of the best spring travel destinations for those enchanted by coastal beauty, colorful villages, and the charm of Italian culture (and cuisine).

Monterosso al Mare is in northern Italy and is a part of the Cinque Terre on the Ligurian coast. It is the largest and flattest of the five villages, making it the most accessible and home to the region’s only sizable sandy beach. Divided into Old Town and New Town, Monterosso offers colorful streets, medieval charm, and stunning coastal views, along with fresh seafood, local wines, and scenic hiking trails like the Sentiero Azzurro, which connects all five Cinque Terre villages.

Spring Festivals & Events:

Are you a fan of lemons? The Amalfi Coast has a lemon season which starts in early May and goes into the summer. While the actual Lemon Festival is in mid July, visiting in spring still allows you to tour the region while the surrounding hills are full of critic aromas and yellow lemon trees. If you’re looking for a lemon festival earlier in the year, there is a beautiful one in Monterosso al Mare in May. 

Best Experiences:

• Explore some of the many lemon groves in full bloom during the harvest season
• Learn about the Sfusato Amalfitano Lemon which is unique to the region
• Experience the thrill of riding a Vespa along the scenic coastal roads to villages like Positano, Ravello, or Atrani.
• Hike the Path of the Gods for panoramic views of the blooming coast. It’s located between Bomerano (Agerola) and Nocelle.
• Taste fresh lemon gelato and limoncello at one of the many local cafés.
• Try lemon themed Italian cuisine such as Insalata di Limone or Limone Scampi
• Hike the Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) in Monterosso al Mare.

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2. Kyoto, Japan – Cherry Blossom Extravaganza

Kyoto is one of the best spring travel destinations for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts, as its ancient temples, shrines, and traditional tea houses are framed by breathtaking cherry blossoms (sakura). The city’s blend of historic beauty and seasonal charm makes spring the ideal time to visit.

When to See Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto

• Best Time: Late March to early April
• Peak Bloom: Typically the last week of March to the first week of April, though timing varies slightly depending on weather conditions.

Spring Festivals & Events

• Hanami (Cherry Blossom Viewing) – A cherished tradition where locals and visitors gather in parks and temples to admire the pastel-colored blooms, often with picnics under the cherry trees.
• Miyako Odori (April) – A geisha dance performance held at the Gion Kobu Kaburenjo Theatre showcasing Kyoto’s elegant cultural heritage.
• Seiryū-e Festival (April) – A stunning dragon procession at Kiyomizu-dera Temple celebrating the mythical blue dragon believed to protect the city.
• Aoi Matsuri (May) – One of Kyoto’s three great festivals featuring a grand Heian-era parade from the Imperial Palace to Kamigamo Shrine.

Must-Do Experiences in Kyoto During Spring

• Walk the Philosopher’s Path, a scenic route lined with hundreds of cherry trees that form a dreamy pink tunnel in full bloom.
• Visit Fushimi Inari-taisha, where the vivid red torii gates contrast beautifully with the soft pink sakura.
• Maruyama Park – Kyoto’s most popular hanami spot, where the famous weeping cherry tree (shidarezakura) is illuminated at night.
• Kiyomizu-dera Temple – offers panoramic views of Kyoto framed by cherry blossoms.
• Stay in a traditional ryokan for an authentic stay complete with tatami mats, kaiseki dining, and onsen baths.
• Take a boat ride along the Okazaki Canal where cherry blossoms reflect beautifully on the water.

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3. Cartagena, Colombia

For a entertaining mix of history, coastal beauty, and cultural vibrancy, Cartagena ranks among the best spring travel destinations, with its colonial architecture, lively plazas, and warm Caribbean climate. Spring offers sunny days, cooling sea breezes, and fewer crowds compared to peak tourist seasons.

Spring Festivals & Events

• Feria Internacional del Libro de Cartagena (March-April) – A literary and cultural festival featuring international authors, book fairs, live music, and engaging discussions.
• Semana Santa (March or April) – One of Colombia’s most significant religious celebrations marked by elaborate processions and traditional ceremonies.

Best Experiences in Cartagena During Spring

• Explore the colorful streets of the Old City, where vibrant colonial buildings are draped in bougainvillea, creating a picture-perfect setting.
• Visit Castillo San Felipe de Barajas, the largest Spanish fortress in South America, for a glimpse into Cartagena’s rich history.
• Take a day trip to the Rosario Islands, where crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and coral reefs provide the perfect escape.
• Enjoy Cartagena’s electrifying nightlife, from intimate salsa bars to open-air plazas filled with live music.
• Stroll along the historic city walls at sunset, offering stunning views over the Caribbean Sea.

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4. Bali, Indonesia

Bali’s lush landscapes, warm climate, and deep cultural traditions make it an ideal spring destination. As the island enters the dry season, travelers can enjoy vibrant festivals, blooming tropical flora, and outdoor adventures that highlight Bali’s natural beauty and spiritual heritage.

Spring Festivals & Events

• Bali Spirit Festival (March-April) – A celebration of yoga, dance, and world music that attracts wellness enthusiasts from around the globe.
• Nyepi (March) – Bali’s Day of Silence, a unique Hindu celebration marked by quiet reflection, meditation, and a complete pause of daily activities across the island.
• Galungan (March or April) – A major Balinese Hindu festival honoring ancestral spirits with offerings, processions, and beautifully decorated streets.

Best Experiences in Bali During Spring

• Explore Ubud’s rice terraces, where fresh greenery and blooming flowers create a stunning landscape.
• Visit Tanah Lot Temple at sunset, perched on a rocky outcrop with waves crashing around it.
• Hike up Mount Batur before dawn for breathtaking sunrise views over the volcanic peaks and crater lake.
• Relax on the beaches of Uluwatu or Nusa Dua, where clear waters and golden sands offer the perfect escape.
• Discover Bali’s spiritual side with a purification ritual at Tirta Empul, a sacred water temple known for its natural spring pools.

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5. Lisbon & Porto, Portugal

Portugal’s mix of historic charm, coastal beauty, and lively spring festivals makes it a perfect European destination this time of year. The mild temperatures and blooming landscapes create an inviting atmosphere for exploring its cultural and natural highlights.

Spring Festivals & Events

• Festival da Primavera in Lisbon (March through April) – A vibrant celebration featuring live music, dance performances, and floral displays across the city.
• Festa das Cruzes in Barcelos (April through May) – One of Portugal’s most colorful spring festivals known for its elaborate flower carpets and lively parades.
• Holy Week Celebrations (March or April) – Processions and religious festivities take place in cities like Braga and Porto.

Best Experiences in Lisbon & Porto During Spring

• Ride the famous yellow tram through Lisbon’s historic neighborhoods, passing scenic viewpoints and pastel-colored buildings.
• Visit the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra, where lush gardens and spring flowers surround the colorful architecture of Pena Palace and Quinta da Regaleira.
• Wander through Porto’s Ribeira district, where charming riverside streets come to life in the pleasant spring weather.
• Sample seasonal Portuguese cuisine, from fresh seafood and spring vegetables to regional wines in the Douro Valley.
• Take a boat cruise along the Tagus River in Lisbon or the Douro River in Porto for panoramic city views.

Want to stay closer to home this spring break? Try these Top 5 U.S. Destinations for Spring Break

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6. Santorini & Milos, Greece

With their whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and deep blue waters, the Greek islands of Santorini and Milos are stunning spring destinations. The season brings mild weather, fewer crowds, and blooming wildflowers, making it a perfect time to explore the islands’ natural beauty and cultural traditions.

Spring Festivals & Events

• Orthodox Easter (April or May) – One of Greece’s most important religious celebrations featuring candlelit processions, fireworks, and traditional feasts across the islands.
• Anthesteria Festival (April through May is historically celebrated in Athens but observed in some areas) – A springtime festival of flowers, wine, and renewal inspired by ancient Greek traditions.

Best Experiences in Santorini & Milos During Spring

• Watch the sunset in Oia where the sky turns brilliant shades of pink and purple over the Aegean Sea.
• Wander through Fira’s charming streets where whitewashed buildings contrast beautifully with spring flowers.
• Explore Milos for its hidden beaches colorful fishing villages, and dramatic coastal rock formations.
• Sail around Kleftiko a breathtaking spot known for its turquoise waters and sea caves, best explored by boat.
• Visit Akrotiri the well-preserved ruins of an ancient Minoan city, sometimes called the “Pompeii of the Aegean.”

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7. Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a paradise for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers with its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and warm tropical climate. Spring is one of the best times to visit as it marks the transition from the dry season to the green season. Costa Rice in spring has warm wonderful weather for outdoor adventures and a even chance to experience the country’s vibrant cultural festivals.

Spring Festivals & Events

• Festival de las Artes (March through April) – A lively celebration held in San José and other cities for international arts like music and dance.
• Día de Juan Santamaría (April) – A patriotic holiday honoring Costa Rica’s national hero featuring parades, concerts, and historical reenactments.
• Semana Santa (March or April) – Holy Week is observed across Costa Rica with colorful religious processions and traditional feasts.

Best Experiences in Costa Rica During Spring

• Zip-line through Monteverde’s cloud forest where spring flowers and lush greenery create a heavenly green canopy as you fly by.
• Witness sea turtles nesting in Tortuguero one of the most important turtle conservation areas in the world.
• Relax in Arenal’s hot springs surrounded by tropical flora and the majestic Arenal Volcano.
• Explore Manuel Antonio National Park where sloths, monkeys, and exotic birds roam freely.
• Take a boat tour through the wetlands of Palo Verde National Park for a prime spot for birdwatching and wildlife encounters.

Find how to find deals for Spring Break here.

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8. The Maldives

For those seeking luxury, tranquility, and natural beauty, the Maldives is a top spring destination. The islands promise vivid blue waters, powdery white sand beaches, and world-class diving for beginners and experienced divers alike. Spring brings warm weather and calm seas which makes will give you better visibility underwater making it an excellent time to explore the islands.

Spring Festivals & Events

• Local Island Festivals (March through May) – Traditional celebrations featuring Maldivian music, dance, crafts, and cultural performances on the main inhabited islands.
• Ramadan & Eid (March and April depending on the lunar calendar) – A significant time in the Maldives where visitors can experience special feasts and festive traditions on local islands.

Best Experiences in the Maldives During Spring

• Dive or snorkel among coral reefs where tropical fish, manta rays, and sea turtles thrive in the crystal clear waters.
• Stay in an overwater villa with glass floors with unparalleled seascapes of the ocean and marine life below.
• Experience a private beach dinner under the stars. Indulge in an evening of fresh seafood and candlelight with the soothing sound of the waves calling in the background.
• Take a sunset cruise on a traditional Maldivian dhoni where you might spot dolphins playing in the open sea.
• Indulge in a spa retreat at a luxury resort with treatments inspired by ancient Maldivian healing traditions.

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Your Spring Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re drawn to spring festivals or nature’s most beautiful blooms these best spring travel destinations offer something for every traveler. Which place inspires you the most to travel this spring? Share your top pick below and start planning your unforgettable spring getaway for 2025!

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