As winter’s cold sets in we start to yearn for sunny days and a springtime break. So where in Europe is hot in April? Where can you find some reliable sunny days as well as interesting places to visit, things to do and great cuisine too. The good news is, there’s plenty of choice. Here are all the answers with climate averages and top sights. Choose your getaway now from this list of the hottest places in Europe in April.
This post contains affiliate links, this means that I may receive a commission – at no cost to you – if you click a link and make a purchase.
Where is hot April Europe?
April is a fabulous time to visit Europe. Flowers are blooming and visitor numbers – and prices! – are lower than in high season. You can relax by the coast, explore a city, go hiking or cycling in wonderful scenery or visit cultural treasures, Europe has all the options.
But parts of Europe are still recovering from winter’s chill. To be sure of finding sunny weather, check out this round up of the hottest places in Europe in April.
Why visit Europe in April?
April is one of my favourite times of year to visit Europe. There are so many good reasons to plan a springtime break at the coast or in a city.
- Enjoy your destination without the heat of high summer.
- It’s springtime in Europe with wonderful displays of wild flowers and blossom on the trees. Typically these hot countries will be dry and arid by peak summer, so this is the time to appreciate their full natural beauty.
- You can enjoy day to day life like the locals do without the busy-ness of summer.
- Cooler temperatures mean that you can walk, hike or cycle without over-heating.
- Cultural attractions, landmarks and restaurants will be less crowded.
- Hotels and flights may be cheaper than in peak season.
- Many places celebrate cultural or religious festivals in springtime.
Tips for choosing warm places in Europe in April
In simple terms the further south you go in Europe the warmer it will be in April. Although the Portuguese island of Madeira and the Spanish Canary Islands count as part of Europe they actually lie off the coast of North Africa. And sunny Cyprus is located in the eastern Mediterranean sea near Lebanon.
Orthodox and Catholic Easter festivals follow different calendars. The Orthodox Easter festival in Greece and Cyprus is usually a little later than the festivities in other parts of Europe. And sometimes the Catholic Holy Week or Semana Santa (Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday) is actually in March, as it will be in 2024.
How warm is Europe in April?
Obviously temperature averages are just that: averages. And in the last few years the climate fluctuations in Europe have been unpredictable to say the least. As well as that, a climate average for an island or region will be an overview of the whole area, including the different weather patterns of mountainous regions and the coast.
So use this post as a guide then zero in on a town to check its specific weather averages.
Be prepared for changeable weather. Although it’s fair to say that higher temperatures in April are found in southern Europe, even here climate patterns are less reliable in spring than mid-summer.
In Britain we talk about ‘April showers’ and they happen in the rest of Europe too. Wind can be another factor. Many of April’s hottest places in Europe are islands – and islands can be breezy. Although some areas will be more sheltered than others.
What to pack for warm places in Europe in April
Dresses, shorts and t-shirts definitely, but no matter where you are the temperatures will drop in the evening. So pack layers: a long sleeve shirt, a jumper, a jacket. And take a lightweight waterproof just in case, as well as sunglasses and sunscreen.
Is everywhere open in April in Europe?
Not all seasonal attractions will be open in April, either because of the weather or lack of demand. For instance many organised beaches won’t start opening until May. This may also include bars, restaurants and clubs in holiday resorts. So check ahead if there’s somewhere you’d really like to visit.
By the same token if you’re looking for a lively nightlife aim for a city with a year-round population rather than a seasonal resort.
The Hottest Place in Europe in April
And the winner is: the recognised Hottest Destination in Europe in April is Cyprus.
You can also argue that the Canary Islands are the hottest places in Europe! Geographically speaking they lie off the coast of North Africa, but politically they are part of Spain.
Cyprus: the hottest destination in April in Europe
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in April: 23° /12°C (73 -54°F)
- Average hours of sun: 11 hrs
- Average days of rain/mm per month: 7 days / 20mm
- Sea temperature in April 18°C (64°F)
Things to do in Cyprus in April
To be fair, the island of Cyprus has a head start on the rest of Europe thanks to its location in the south east of the Mediterranean. It’s closer to the Middle East than it is to Greece. This means it’s generally hotter than the Greek islands.
I love Cyprus for its wonderfully hospitable people, long season of reliably sunny days, gorgeous sandy beaches, calm seas, green mountains and more than 2000 years of history.
I’ve visited Cyprus in April so I can confirm it’s the month for spring flowers and exploring. The comfortable temperatures in April are perfect for heading into the Troodos mountains to go wine tasting or walking. And Cyprus celebrates the Greek Orthodox Easter traditions and festivities, although in 2024 Easter falls on Sunday 5 May.
The cultural treasures around the south coast of Cyprus are exposed to the sun in high summer so April with its milder temperatures is a great time to visit them. The archeological site of Kourion near Limassol has a stunning amphitheatre backed by a Mediterranean sea view.
You can spend quiet sunny days on the island’s gorgeous beaches too. Although the sea will still be cool even though Cyprus is one of the hottest places in Europe in April!
The food in Cyprus is a wonderful mix of Greek and middle Eastern flavours. Enjoy leisurely meze lunches by the seaside, or the famous Cypriot sandwich stuffed with grilled halloumi, smoked cured pork and tomatoes. In the evening try lamb kleftiko, cooked for hours in a clay pot until it’s meltingly tender.
Cyprus is also a top pick when you’re looking for where is hot in Europe in September.
Flying time from London UK: 4 hours 35 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Cyprus
Where is Hot in April in Europe: Islands
Malta
- Average high and low daytime temperatures in April: 20° /17°C (68 – 63°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 6 /26mm
- Sea temperature in April 17°C (63°F)
Things to do in Malta in April
Although famous for its beaches, dive sites and natural wonders like the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon, Malta has a wealth of cultural treasures too. This makes it a prime candidate when you’re searching for hot Europe destinations in April.
The capital city Valletta is a UNESCO world heritage site with a rich history and hundreds of sights. Step inside the dazzling St John’s Co-Cathedral and take a ferry across the harbour to discover The Three Cities.
Visit the ancient megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra which are older than Stonehenge. Or take a boat ride to the two smaller islands in the archipelago, Gozo and Comino. Here you’ll find remote beaches, limestone cliffs and hiking trails.
Malta’s Easter celebrations are a very important part of island life and their Holy Week begins on the Friday before Palm Sunday. Expect beautiful and moving processions and displays in the towns and villages of the archipelago. In 2024 Malta’s Easter falls on Sunday 31 March.
Flying time from London UK: 3 hours 10 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Malta
The Canary Islands
Any list of hot places in Europe in April is going to include the Canary Islands, 4.5 hours flying time south of the UK’s cooler climes. They are part of Spain and also part of the special territories of the European Union. But the islands actually lie off the coast of Africa.
Blue skies all year round, palm trees, volcanic landscapes, sand dunes and fresh seafood characterise the Canary Islands. And there are plenty of cheap package holidays from the UK too. With some of the best April weather in Europe they are perennial favourites for a springtime break.
Lanzarote
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 24°/16°C (75/61°F)
- Average hours of sun: 9
- Average days of rain/mm: 1/5mm
- Sea temperature in April: 19°C /66 °F
A hot contender with Cyprus for the title of warmest place in Europe in April, Lanzarote has average high temperatures in the 20s.
Yes it’s a well known tourist beach destination, but Lanzarote also has stretches of beautiful coast that are refreshingly inaccessible. Papagayo is one of best beaches on the island and it lies at the end of a long and surprisingly bumpy unmade road. Take care if you go in a rental car!
This volcanic island has some otherworldly vistas too. Like the dark lunar-style terrain of the Timanfaya National Park and the extraordinary valley of La Geria. Here wine has been cultivated for centuries by digging hollows into the volcanic soil to plant vines. Its uniquely patterned landscape is one of the reasons Lanzarote is included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Architect César Manrique placed his stamp on Lanzarote in the last century. One of his best known works is at Jameos del Agua, where he transformed a series of natural volcanic caves into a stunning auditorium.
And don’t miss the chance to view a sunset at El Golfo, a strikingly dark green lagoon in a volcanic crater beside a black sand beach.
Flying time from London UK: 4 hours 15 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Lanzarote
Fuerteventura
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 23°/16°C (73/61°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 1/5mm
- Sea temperature in April: 19°C (66°F)
Along with Lanzarote, Fuerteventura is one of the warmest destinations in Europe in April. It’s also one of the driest while its sea is relatively warm too. There’s a clue to the weather in its name: Fuerteventura means strong adventure – or winds! – and the island is a great choice if you’re keen on water sports. Though it does have more sheltered coves too.
Fuerteventura is a place of cacti and rolling sands: outdoor lovers will adore the Corralejo sand dunes natural park, with turquoise ocean on one side and volcanoes in the distance. And at night the lack of light pollution makes Fuerteventura the perfect place for star-gazing.
Flying time from London UK: 4 hours 15 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments on Fuerteventura
Gran Canaria
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 22°/16°C (73/61°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 1/6mm
- Sea temperature in April 19°C/66°F
With a hugely diverse landscape of mountains and pine forests plus dunes and deserts, Gran Canaria is an island of micro climates. In April it may be foggy in one part of the island and sunny in another. But its daytime average temperatures in April are still, delightfully, in the low 20s, while the mountains shelter the south of the island from the winds. So definitely add it to your list of warm places to go in Europe in April.
The tradewinds ensure Gran Canaria is a great location for watersports like surfing and wind-surfing. It also boasts some of the best high-end resorts in the Canaries too.
And there are plenty of things to do in Gran Canaria without going to the beach. Hike to the Ventana del Nublo viewpoint or to Roque Nublo itself a 67 m high natural crag. Or watch a sunset from the imposing 900 acre Maspalomas sand dunes. It’s a nature reserve that’s like a little slice of the Sahara.
In the beautiful Las Palmas old town, Vegueta, which saw Columbus set sail, you can learn about the explorer at the eponymous museum or go on a tapas bar hop through the little streets. And taste the famous honey rum from Arucas, a product of the sugarcane that has been growing on the island since Columbus’ time.
Flying time from London UK: 4 hours 25 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Gran Canaria
Tenerife
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 21°/14°C (71/64°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 3/19mm
- Sea temperature in April: 20°C (68°F)
Tenerife may not be the hottest of the Canary Islands in April, but it is still a highly sought-after destination with something for everyone. April is shoulder season although visitor numbers and hotel prices wil rise over Easter time.
Outdoor activities include inland hiking trails under the gaze of a snow-capped volcano, whale and dolphin watching and even sea swimming if you’re happy with a refreshing dip.
Away from the sun ‘n sangria south coast Tenerife has its fair share of cultural attractions. The old port town of Garachico has lava rock pools, cobbled streets and colonial buildings. While Santa Cruz is home to Santiago Calatrava’s dazzling white 2003 auditorium on the waterfront.
For foodies, Tenerife has 5 Michelin-starred restaurants. And April is wine month in rural Tegueste which holds a month-long regional food and wine fair.
Flying time from London UK: 4 hours 30 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Tenerife
Mallorca
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 19°/11°C (67/53°F)
- Average hours of sun: 10
- Average days of rain: 5
- Sea temperature in April: 16°C /61°F
Things to do in Mallorca in April
In April, the island of Mallorca (also known as Majorca) tends to be the warmest and least windy of Spain’s Balearic Islands. It may have a few April showers but the island is in full bloom and it’s a great time of year for exploring the mountain scenery by foot or bike. This is the biggest of Spain’s islands and there’s a lot to see.
The Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the mountainous spine of Mallorca with beautiful views and traditional villages. Hikers can follow the Dry Stone Route from Andratx to Pollença, staying in old monasteries which are now hostels.
Cycle fans may know that professional teams train in Mallorca and it offers some of the world’s best road riding. Whilst Mallorca is also the home of tennis legend Rafael Nadal and keen players can polish their game at the Rafa Nadal Tennis Center in Manacor.
Less energetically, the island has stunning villages to explore. Hilltop Deià has attracted a creative community of artists and writers for decades. While Cala Figuero’s harbour is over 700 years old and traditional llaut fishing boats still ply their trade here.
Mallorca has a wonderful coastline of wide beaches and sandy coves as well as pretty towns which reflect its rich history and Moorish influences. The city of Palma is worth a visit in its own right, especially outside high season when you can enjoy it without the crowds.
Although Holy Week falls in March in 2024, Mallorca also has several local fairs and festivals in April. All in all it earns its place on any list of warmest places in Europe in April.
Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 20 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Mallorca
Sicily
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 16°C/8°C (60/46°F)
- Average hours of sun: 7
- Average days of rain/mm: 18/35mm
- Sea temperature in April: 16°C/61°F
Things to do in Sicily in April
Gorgeous Sicily in southern Italy is another island that I love in springtime. Fans of The White Lotus will know that Sicily is an enchanting, vibrant and colourful island. But its growing popularity and Netflix fame mean that Sicily is busier now, making the shoulder season a tempting time to visit.
The Italians may think you’re frankly mad if you strip off and jump in the sea in April. And when I tried that I did get out again very quickly! But for northern Europeans like me Sicily is wonderfully mild and balmy at this time of year though you may get some April showers.
The largest island in the Mediterranean, Sicily is also the home of Etna, the biggest European active volcano. You can walk, hike or cycle in the stunning volcanic landscape around Etna. Or simply admire its brooding presence from Taormina, the coastal town with views over the Ionian sea as well as the volcano.
This is a good time of year to explore Sicily’s archeological treasures like the ancient Greek temples in the Valley of the Temples. And to visit its characterful towns: Noto, Syracuse and Ortigia and of course the city of Palermo. Take in their wonderful baroque architecture, colourful street markets and spend time tasting and learning about Sicily’s amazing food.
Or simply walk along the lovely beaches in Cefalù or San Vito lo Capo and see the stunning white rock formations at Scala di Turchi.
Sicily holds colourful parades and events during Holy Week and Easter, Sunday 31 March in 2024. And later in the month celebrates St George’s Day with a procession in the town of Modica.
Flying time from London UK: 3 hours
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Sicily
Sardinia
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 18°/9°C (64/48°F)
- Average hours of sun: 7
- Average days of rain/mm: 13/25mm
- Sea temperature in April : 15°C/59°F
Things to do in Sardinia in April
Although Sardinia is very popular with Italian visitors, April is still low season. As one of the warmest places in Europe in April this is a chance to enjoy the scenery without the crowds.
Although it may not be warm enough to swim you’ll still want to explore Sardinia’s beautiful beaches. La Pelosa with its white sand and crystal-clear waters only allows ticketed entrance during the high season of June to October. But beach bars and restaurants may not be open yet.
Sardinia has volcanic landscapes and thermal pools so hiking in April is a real treat. You’ll find naturally occurring hot springs but also spa resorts on the island. And it’s a great time of year to discover more about Sardinia’s pre-history at its archeological sites. The ancient Phoenician city of Tharros is an open-air museum by the sea, whilst Cagliari’s Roman amphitheatre is an easy walk from the centre of the town.
Flying time from London UK: 3 hours
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Sardinia
The Algarve
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 23°/11°C ( 73/52 °F)
- Average hours of sun: 9
- Average days of rain/mm: 8/38mm
- Sea temperature in April: 16°C/61°F
Things to do in the Algarve in April
Southern Portugal is a famously popular location for a springtime break. Almond trees flower, the scent of orange blossom is in the air and the weather is pleasantly warm.
Although the temperature averages are good, the Algarve, and Portugal generally, can have unpredictable weather in April. The Portuguese have a saying for this: en Abril, aguas mil – in April a thousand waters. But on the upside you could have lovely beach days on top of ideal weather for hiking, biking or city exploring.
Portugal’s golden coast, with its rocky cliffs and pretty coves, is waiting to be explored without the crowds. And it’s also a good month to spot some pretty sunsets. Go kayaking or take a boat trip to discover sea caves and beaches – and you might spot dolphins too.
April is your chance to sample Portugal’s sporting facilities before the temperatures rise in the summer months. Golf and tennis holidays to Portugal are very popular and you’ll find plenty of Algarve hotels that offer sporting packages. And spring brings favourable winds for surfing too.
Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 50 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in the Algarve
Madeira
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 19°/14°C (66/57°F)
- Average hours of sun: 7
- Average days of rain/mm: 60/10
- Sea temperature in April: 18°C/64°F
Things to do in Madeira in April
This Portuguese archipelago lies in the Atlantic ocean, north of the Canary Islands, and close to North Africa. Also known as the ‘island of eternal spring’, Madeira has a higher rainfall than the Canaries making it a lush and beautiful island.
Locals say you can experience four seasons in one day just by travelling around the island. But its micro climates ensure the island may be sunny in one part and wet in another, giving you a sporting chance of dodging rain or cloud by moving to a different location. Generally speaking the lowest rainfall is to the south west of the island.
Spring arrives with the annual carnival and flower festival. it’s also a good time of year to look out for whales and dolphins off the coast.
If you stay in Funchal you can take day trips to different parts of this very diverse island. Head to Porto Moniz where you can swim in saltwater lava pools, protected from the sea. Venture inland to lush landscapes where banana and avocado grow or visit the historic thatched houses of Santana.
You have a roughly 50/50 chance of seeing clouds in Madeira in April. But of all the warm places in Europe in April, Madeira is the one where you are most likely to have a pleasant swimming experience. In fact locals say you can swim in Madeira all year round!
Flying time from London UK: 3 hours 50 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Madeira
Where is hot in April in Europe: cities
Whilst April London weather highs average around 13°C, these are the some of the best European cities for warmer weather.
Seville
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 24°/11°C (75/52°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 7 /57mm
Things to do in Seville in April
The southern region of Spain, particularly Andalusia, is known to be one of the warmest places in Europe in April. Seville is the capital of Andalusia and April’s sunny weather makes it is one of the best months of the year to enjoy this beautiful and historic city.
Add to this not one but two important festivals in Seville during the month of April. The city throws its heart into breathtaking and moving parades and ceremonies during Holy Week or Semana Santa (Sunday 31 March in 2024) and this is followed two weeks later by Seville’s April Fair, Feria de Abril.
It all adds up to a very busy time for Seville so it’s not the place to go to beat the crowds. But it’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Seville’s traditional customs and festivities. From the Fair’s fried fish to flamenco there is a lot to discover in Seville in April.
A rich mix of architectural styles make a fascinating and beautiful city and in April the scent of orange blossom and jasmine perfumes the air. Walking the streets of Seville to admire the blossom and soak up its charm is a lovely thing to do in April.
Top attractions in Seville include the opulent Royal palace, Real Alcázar with its lavish Moorish style. And the grand Gothic cathedral with La Giralda bell tower. And visit Las Setas, the modern ‘mushrooms of Seville’ for a panoramic view of the city and the sunset.
The food of course is wonderful in Seville, especially the tapas, the name given to small snacks or appetizers. And you can while away an evening visiting tapas bars to sample their specialities.
Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 45 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Seville
Rome
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 20 / 8C (68/46°F)
- Average hours of sun: 7
- Average days of rain/mm: 9/18mm
Things to do in Rome in April
There are so many benefits for visiting Rome outside high season: prices, crowds and heat being the most obvious. However April can also be a very busy time for the city, most notably for Easter and Holy Week, when pilgrims arrive from all over the world. In 2024 however this falls at the end of March.
Rome is also busy on 21st April when it celebrates its own birthday. Events usually include a parade, fireworks and historical re-enactments at the Circus Maximus.
The eternal city is fascinating place all year: these are our Rome must sees and top things to do.
Rome is a warm place in Europe in April, with occasional rain, which makes it a good time of year for sightseeing. And a big plus about Rome in April is that its green spaces like the Palatine Hill will be properly green with trees and shrubs around the city in bloom. Rome celebrates Spring with a flower festival, Mostra delle Azalee, on the Spanish Steps.
Spring blooms are also a good reason to visit the Borghese Gallery art museum set in the lovely gardens of the Villa Borghese with its boating lake. While the ancient ruins of the Baths of Caracalla, a Roman thermal bath complex, are another outdoor attraction that’s particularly pretty in spring.
Otherwise it’s a lovely time of year to wander the streets of Rome, discovering piazzas and fountains and sitting outside with a coffee. And try to taste Colomba di Pasqua, a traditional Italian Easter cake like panettone.
Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 30 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Rome
Barcelona
- Average high and low temperatures in April: 18°/10°C (65/51°F)
- Average hours of sun: 8
- Average days of rain/mm: 5/37mm
- Sea temperature in April: 15°C/59°F
Things to do in Barcelona in April
With a flight time of just two hours and a quick transfer from airport to city centre, a Barcelona city break is a great option in April. Its Mediterranean climate ensures mild temperatures so you can enjoy sightseeing without scorching. There’s a chance of showers in April but the city has plenty of indoor as well as outdoor attractions.
This is a perfect time to visit the stunning buildings of Gaudi including his fantastical Parc Güell and the La Sagrada Familia basilica.
April is also the time of a lovely tradition in the city. On Sant Jordi’s Day on April 23, boys buy their sweethearts a rose whilst the girls return the favour with the gift of a book. Saint George is the patron saint of Catalonia and the day has also become a celebration of Catalan culture. Street stalls selling roses and books spring up around the city, especially in La Rambla and Passeig de Gràcia. Nowadays boys often give books as gifts too and the gesture is shared between friends and families as well as lovers.
And Barcelona celebrates a Feria de Abril or April Fair. Open to all it’s a 10 day festival of traditional Andalusian music, costumes, food and flamenco. This busy month also hosts a Beer Festival and Barcelona Wine Week.
Flying time from London UK: 2 hours 5 mins
Check out these hotels and self-catering apartments in Barcelona
The hottest places in Europe in April are likely to be sunny but they won’t be hot by peak season standards. The sea is beginning to warm up after winter but it will still be chilly. Even Cyprus which has bath-like seas in September can be nippy in April.
If you’re keen on swimming outdoors look out for accommodation with a heated pool. This is a bit of a rarity in Europe. And I’ve been to a few smart hotels in April where the outdoor pool has been stone-cold. But it’s worth researching, because they do exist.
Please note that all visitor information here is for guidance only. Please check the relevant websites for the most up to date information eg. accommodation details, tickets, entrance requirements, opening times etc.
What to read next
Best European Cities to Visit in November
Where is Hot in September in Europe: 18 of the sunniest places to explore
Check out some more ideas for holidays in April
And why April London Weather is actually perfect for sightseeing!
And here are more city break guides to inspire you. These European cities are at their best in the Spring or Autumn shoulder seasons:
Things to do in Vienna Austria
Things to do in 3 Days in Florence on a Budget
Rome with Teenagers: things to do
About the author Nancy Roberts is a former women’s magazine editor and writer. She lives in London and is mum to two 20-something boys. In Map&Family she shares info and inspiration for curious travellers: singles and couples as well as families travelling with teens and young adults.
All photos are all rights reserved. Please do not reproduce these photos without prior written permission
Leave a Reply