Springtime in Europe is, in a word, enchanting. The sun returns to warm the continent and set every flower and tree into bloom. Meanwhile, the traditionally social European lifestyle moves back outside, and time seems to slow down to allow everyone to enjoy life a little bit more. It can be overwhelming to choose where to spend your time during the Spring semester, but don’t worry. We’ve narrowed down the best Springtime experiences you can have around Europe – and the best time to have them.
Relish in Prague’s Old-World Coziness
Early February
In February, the chilly winter month when your semester most likely begins, you’ll be craving old-world coziness, little cobblestone streets, and drinks that’ll warm you up. Naturally, then, there’s no better time to visit Prague, a city practically out of a Disney movie. Don’t let the cold scare you away – surrounded by Prague’s graceful beauty, you won’t even feel the chill. And even if you do, you can stay warm by ducking in and out of Prague’s charming, intimate pubs and sipping hot spiced wine as you explore the city.
Experience medieval Europe at its best with our Prague weekender!
Hit the Slopes and the Spas in St Anton
Late February
Before the warmer weather moves in, we might as well have one last winter bash to take advantage of the cold. The best way to do this is by hitting the slopes. Head to St Anton, where you can lose yourself high up in snow-capped Austrian Alps. After a day full of adrenaline-powered skiing, return to your chalet for some spiced wine around the fireplace with your friends and fellow skiers.
For the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, check out our weekend trip to the Alps.
Sip Sangria under the Sun at Abroadfest in Barcelona
March 4-6
As Spring officially begins in the Mediterranean, you’ll want to be there to soak up the sun. Barcelona is magical any time of year, but there is a special feeling in the spring. It’s an extremely outdoorsy and active city, so the energy in the air is electric as everyone finally heads outside again. This is why there’s no better time for the city to play host to the annual Abroadfest, where you can dance the night away to flashing lights and pulsing beats in a happy sea of fellow students.
Learn more about Abroadfest and get started planning your Abroadfest weekend in Barcelona.
Get Lucked Up on Saint Patrick’s Day in Dublin
March 11-13
You haven’t experienced Europe until you’ve hit the pubs in Dublin, and what better time to do this than Saint Patrick’s Day? This delightful city turns the charm up to 100 over the the holiday. Feel the infectious energy of the crowds as you wander in and out of the famous Temple Bar pubs, following the twinkling sound of traditional live music. When you’re not sipping Guinness in pubs, learn how it’s made at the Guinness factory, or learn about Irish culture with a visit to landmarks like Dublin Castle and Trinity College.
Experience the revelry on our Saint Patrick’s Day weekend trip to Dublin!
Feel the Romance and Magic of Paris In Bloom
Late March
Paris can get congested with crowds, which is why spring’s off-season is a great time to experience the city a bit more chilled out than usual. Whether on a trip with your partner or your pals you won’t help but feel a little more introspective, a little more alluring, as you contemplate historic art or sip wine and people-watch at a traditional bistrot. Don’t worry if it starts to drizzle; Paris in the rain is practically an icon in itself.
Embrace Nature and History in Croatia
Early April
Croatia may seem like a summer destination, but go in the Spring and you’ll find so little tourism you might as well have the place to yourself. Like the rest of Europe, Croatia blooms in the Spring, turning its many natural wonders, like the Plitvice waterfalls, into lush, floral-scented utopias. Plus, that fresh Spring breeze will keep you cool as you explore ancient walled cities like Dubrovnik and Split.
Wander Through London’s Parks & Pubs
Mid April
London in the winter is pretty rough, but in spring the weather starts to improve. While you might still get some rainy days in early April, it’s still arguably the best time to visit London. Visit blooming gardens in one of the city’s many parks, and when it starts to rain, join the rest of the locals in crowding into a pub. Here you can lose track of time chatting, making friends, and singing and dancing to live music. If you plan it right, you might even be able to catch the Cherry Blossom trees in bloom.
Raise a Pint At Munich’s Other Beer Fest
April 22-24
Sure you’ve heard of Oktoberfest, but did you really think we’d let the Fall semester have all the fun? With decorated beer halls, colorful costumes, lively oompah bands, and endless amber Bavarian lager, Springfest gives you all the fun of Oktoberfest but without the tourists. With your semester coming to a close, this is one of your last chances to meet new friends, let loose, and make some of the best memories of your semester.
Ready for Springfest? Book your Munich weekend now!
Learn more about the other Spring semester trips we have to offer, and contact us to get involved!
