Spring Destinations in Europe

When winter’s chill lifts, Europe comes alive with colorful blooms, outdoor café culture, and mild temperatures ranging from 12 to 25°C. Whether you’re tempted by ancient ruins or seaside promenades, spring destinations in Europe offer the perfect mix of cultural intrigue and natural beauty. Thanks to Swaphouse, a free home swapping platform, you can stay in these vibrant locales at no cost by exchanging homes with other travelers. Read on for some insider tips on what to see and do, and don’t forget to pack layers—a sunny day can still lead to a brisk evening. Soon, you’ll be sipping local wine by the coast or wandering through bustling farmers’ markets in the heart of Europe’s most captivating cities.

Athens often glows with pleasant spring days, hovering around 12–21°C. Beyond the famous Acropolis, you’ll find fresh produce in lively street markets and trendy cafés where you can take a midday break. It’s the ideal season to explore neighborhoods like Plaka with fewer crowds, soaking up the ancient history at a relaxed pace. If you need to work on the go, Swaphouse offers remote-work-friendly homes with plenty of space to balance your schedule between archaeological sites and online meetings.

For a coastal vibe, consider Valencia, which averages 14–19°C in spring. Mornings invite casual strolls along the Turia Gardens—an old riverbed turned into a lush urban park—while afternoons are perfect for sipping horchata in charming squares. Evenings can be cooler, so be sure to bring a light sweater. The money you save through home swapping lets you indulge in extra paella dinners or treat yourself to a spontaneous day trip along Spain’s sunlit coastline.

Heading a bit north, Porto in Portugal offers a unique mix of historic charm and modern flair, with spring temperatures of about 13–16°C. You’ll love wandering the cobbled streets lined with azulejo-tiled buildings, tasting port wine by the Douro River, and discovering secret viewpoints from hillside neighborhoods. Remember to pack comfortable shoes—it’s a hilly city where you’ll likely walk a lot in search of the best scenic overlooks.

For a taste of island life, Rethymno in Crete averages around 13–20°C in spring, perfect for soaking up Greek island culture without the peak-season crowds. Spend your days strolling through its Venetian harbor, and your evenings sampling fresh seafood at laid-back tavernas. Since nights can still be brisk by the sea, light layers are key. Having a home swap here means easy access to a kitchen, so you can cook up local ingredients from farmers’ markets and truly live like a local.

Finally, Split in Croatia provides a delightful blend of historic architecture and stunning coastal scenery, with temperatures hovering around 12–21°C. The spring sun highlights the ancient walls of Diocletian’s Palace, and you can take breezy ferry rides to nearby islands for a day of exploration. Weather can shift quickly, so don’t forget a jacket in your backpack. Whichever destination you choose, springtime in Europe promises a vivid mix of culture, cuisine, and rejuvenation—scroll down for more spots to spark your wanderlust.