The Best Places to Visit in April

The Great Wall of China consists of defensive fortifications built across the historical northern borders of ancient Chinese states. The oldest sections date back to the seventh century BC, while the Ming dynasty constructed the most famous portions. April is one of the best times to walk the wall because the weather is cool and dry. The surrounding hillsides start to green up, and wild flowers begin to bloom along the stone steps. You will avoid the intense summer heat that makes climbing these steep ridges exhausting. Spring also sees fewer domestic tour groups compared to the national holidays in May and October. Be prepared for uneven steps that vary wildly in height. Some restored sections like Badaling get incredibly crowded, so you should head to Mutianyu for a slightly quieter walk.

The Acropolis of Athens is an ancient citadel set on a high rocky outcrop above the Greek capital. It contains several ruined buildings of immense historical value, including the famous Parthenon temple. Visiting in April allows you to walk up the exposed hill without the baking heat of the Greek summer. Temperatures are comfortable, usually staying around twenty degrees Celsius. The winter rains have stopped, leaving the surrounding hills green and covered in wild chamomile. You will also face much shorter lines at the ticket booths than in July. The marble paths are extremely slippery, even when dry. Wear shoes with excellent grip, and arrive early in the morning to beat the cruise ship tour groups.

Mont-Saint-Michel is a small tidal island and commune located just off the coast of Normandy in France. A historic abbey sits at the top of the island, which is connected to the mainland by a modern bridge. April brings milder spring air to the northern coast of France, though you should still expect breezy days. The extreme winter cold has passed, making the outdoor walk across the bay much more pleasant. The tides here change rapidly and dramatically. During low tide, pilgrims can walk across the wet sand, but you must be careful not to get stuck in the mud. The main street is very narrow and steep, lined with overpriced shops and restaurants. It can feel like a tourist trap during the middle of the day when day trippers arrive.

Lisbon is the capital city of Portugal, positioned on the hilly northern shore of the River Tagus. It is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe, predating many other major capitals by hundreds of years. April offers highly pleasant weather with plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures for walking up the steep city hills. It is much cheaper to book accommodation now than during the peak summer months. The city is famous for its historic yellow trams and coastal views. You can easily take a day trip to the westernmost point of continental Europe at Cabo da Roca. Rain is still a possibility in April, so you should pack a light jacket and an umbrella. The cobblestone streets are polished smooth and become very slick when wet.

Rome is the capital of Italy and stands along the shores of the Tiber Valley. The city contains ancient ruins like the Colosseum alongside the Vatican City enclave. April weather is perfect for exploring the outdoor ruins without sweating. The gardens are blooming, and the city has a relaxed energy before the summer rush. Easter sometimes falls in April, which brings massive crowds of pilgrims to the city. If you travel during this holy week, expect high hotel prices and closed shops. Street pickpockets are highly active around the main tourist sites and on public transit. Keep your valuables secure and stay alert in crowded metro stations.

Tokyo Skytree is a broadcasting and observation tower in the Sumida district of Tokyo, Japan. It is the tallest tower in the world, reaching a height of six hundred and thirty four meters. April is a fantastic time to visit Tokyo because the cherry blossoms are usually in bloom. The view from the high observation decks offers a unique perspective on the pink parks below. Spring weather is generally clear, which increases your chances of seeing Mount Fuji in the distance. The air is crisp and comfortable for walking around the base of the tower. Because of the cherry blossom season, Tokyo is incredibly crowded and expensive in April. You must book your tower entry tickets weeks in advance to get a good time slot.

Zhangjiajie National Forest Park is a protected area located in the Hunan Province of China. It is famous for its massive sandstone pillars that rise high out of the green forest. April is the start of the comfortable travel season here, as the harsh winter cold departs. The vegetation is fresh and green, and mist often floats between the peaks, creating a dramatic scene. The park is massive, featuring various cable cars, elevators, and walking paths to help visitors navigate the terrain. It served as the inspiration for fictional landscapes in modern cinema. Spring brings frequent rain showers, which can cause thick fog that blocks the views entirely. You should check the local weather forecast daily and remain flexible with your plans.

Madeira is an autonomous archipelago of Portugal located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It lies southwest of the mainland and features a rugged volcanic landscape with a mild subtropical climate. April is a great month to visit as the island begins to warm up and the spring flowers bloom. The famous walking paths along the historic irrigation canals, called levadas, are lined with fresh green growth. This island is a haven for outdoor activities, offering deep valleys, high sea cliffs, and natural swimming pools. The ocean water is still cool in April, but the hiking conditions are excellent. The weather on the island is highly unpredictable and can change from sunny to rainy in minutes. You will need to rent a car with a strong engine to navigate the incredibly steep mountain roads.

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey, straddling the Bosphorus strait between Europe and Asia. It is a historic metropolis that served as the capital of multiple ancient empires. In April, the city hosts its annual tulip festival, filling the public parks with millions of colorful flowers. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it easy to walk between historic mosques. You can cross between continents by ferry, enjoying the breeze on the water without the intense heat of the summer months. Hotel rates are also reasonable before the peak season begins. The weather can be unstable, with sudden rain showers and chilly winds blowing off the Black Sea. You should pack layers to stay warm during evening ferry rides.

Seychelles is an archipelagic nation consisting of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. The country is located east of mainland Africa and is known for its quiet beaches and nature reserves. April is one of the very best months to visit because it marks the transition between the trade winds. This means the ocean is calm, the air is still, and underwater visibility is at its peak. It is an ideal time for snorkeling and diving to see marine life. The weather is hot and tropical, but without the heavy rain showers of the winter months. Seychelles is an expensive destination, with high costs for accommodation, food, and transport. You will also need to book ferries well in advance to travel between Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue.