Top 5 European cities for an Easter break

Prague, Czech Republic
In our opinion, one of the most romantic cities in Europe, Prague is a great destination for the Easter holidays. Home to its own castle complex, Prague hosts huge markets throughout the month of April. The Old Town Square is a great little handout with cafes – the perfect people-watching spot!

Spend a long weekend eating in fabulous, value for money restaurants, strolling down winding streets and take an evening river cruise. April also marks the end of winter and parks and gardens reopen their doors to the public (at lower rates than summer), and the city in bloom is marvellous.

Milan, Italy
The world capital of fashion, Milan combines the modern with traditional and is the perfect place to retreat over Spring. Shop until your hearts content or relax with a coffee soaking in the incredible architecture.

If you visit over Easter weekend, be sure to visit the Duomo, Milan’s gothic cathedral, on Easter Sunday. Lots of churches and museums open their doors on Sunday but be sure to book in advance (we can help you with this if required). Note that most shops will be closed over the public holiday weekend, but public transport runs as per usual.

Colmar, France
Located in the historic eastern edge of France, Colmar sits just 5km from the Rhine and the German border. The area is characterised by superb vineyards, beautiful villages and cosy restaurants. Meander down charming cobbled streets to the Krutenau Quarter – known as Little Venice for an early evening glass of wine before dinner.

During Spring, there are two major markets – a foodie’s dream - with more than 70 exhibitors offering artisanal produce. Prepare to indulge in chocolate rabbits and eggs and the traditional ‘Lamala’ – a cake made in a lamb-shaped mould.

Lisbon, Portugal
Not only is Lisbon one of the cheapest western Europe city breaks, but it’s brimming with Portuguese authenticity and has a relaxed café-culture atmosphere. With countless independent eateries and plenty to do, Lisbon is an increasingly popular weekend getaway. The city is compact, so you’ll be fine exploring on foot. For a great vista of the city, head to the Aqueduto das Aguas Livres for a cracking view.

Visit the National Museum of Ancient Art. We’ve been countless times and the seasonal exhibitions never cease to blow us away (it also has a fantastic coffee shop!). Take a walk to the Castle of St George and explore one of the most significant Catholic churches pilgrimage sites: The Sanctuary of Fatima.

Nice, France
If you’re in Nice over Easter weekend, the key event in our opinion is the candle procession on Good Friday evening. Attendance is free, and it’s a spectacular gathering. This entire region celebrates the Festival des Jardins throughout the month of April, so be sure to check out events near your hotel and be sure to stroll the famous Promenade des Anglais. If you have time to travel further afield, head to Cannes, Monaco or Saint Tropez to sample the glitz and glamour.

The open top bus – Le Open Tour – is well worth doing. It’s not as cheesy as you might think and visits the most interesting corners of the city for a very reasonable fare.

With temperatures in the low 20’s, it’s probably the closest warm weather destination over the Easter break, so if you’re looking for a little Vitamin D then Nice is worth considering. It’s also worth noting that, being a ‘shoulder season’ month, rates are cheaper than summer months.