April brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and the perfect excuse to escape for a spring adventure. Whether you’re after entertainment, cultural experiences, or sun-soaked beaches, this guide covers the best 15 places to go in April across the UK and beyond.
1. Funny Girls, Blackpool – UK’s Premier Drag & Cabaret Experience
When planning your April getaway, start with something truly special. Funny Girls in Blackpool stands as the UK’s number one drag and cabaret show, voted best-rated show for five years straight. April marks the start of their spectacular spring season, making it the perfect time to experience this Blackpool institution.
The venue itself transports you back to 1939 with its gorgeous art deco theatre setting. The show features dazzling costumes, comedy, and show-stopping performances that have been delighting audiences since 1994. What sets Funny Girls apart is the complete experience: pre-show dining in Garbo’s restaurant, followed by world-class entertainment that includes approximately seven performances throughout the evening.
Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the resident DJ hitting the stage at 8:00 PM, the main show commencing at 8:30 PM, and the finale at 11:00 PM. The performers include professionally trained dancers and drag artists who bring energy, humour, and serious talent to every show.
April temperatures in Blackpool hover around 13°C, making it pleasant for exploring the promenade before your evening show. Book your tickets through the Funny Girls website to secure the best seats for this unforgettable night out.
2. Japan – Cherry Blossom Season
April is one of the best times to visit Japan during the Cherry Blossom Festival, when parks across Tokyo fill with pink blooms. The sakura season transforms the country into a photographer’s paradise.
Kyoto offers particularly stunning displays, with traditional temples framed by delicate blossoms. Asukayama Park has been a cherry blossom viewing destination since the 18th century. The mild weather makes April perfect for exploring both ancient shrines and modern cities without summer’s humidity.
What to expect: Temperatures range from 10-20°C, ideal for outdoor activities. Book accommodation early as this is peak season.
3. Lisbon, Portugal – Spring City Break
Lisbon unfolds its charms in April with pastel-hued buildings and maritime history, offering a sun-drenched escape. The Portuguese capital enjoys around 24°C with nine hours of daily sunshine.
Wander through the Alfama district’s narrow streets, ride the iconic yellow trams, and sample pastéis de nata at century-old bakeries. The Tagus River provides beautiful waterfront walks, while nearby Sintra offers fairy-tale palaces and gardens in full spring bloom.
4. Marrakech, Morocco – Cultural Adventure
April delivers perfect sightseeing weather in Morocco before the summer heat arrives. Morocco offers pleasant temperatures and dry weather in April, making it a fantastic destination to explore.
The souks burst with spices and textiles, while the Jardin Majorelle provides a serene blue and green oasis. Visit the Bahia Palace, experience a traditional hammam, and watch the sunset from a rooftop café overlooking Djemaa el-Fna square.
5. Greece (Crete & Islands) – Early Summer Sun
Crete is a wonderful place to visit in April when Greek Orthodox Easter celebrations take place, experiencing renowned Cretan hospitality. The island sees temperatures around 20°C with abundant wildflowers and far fewer crowds than summer months.
Crete offers family-friendly resorts, beaches like Elafonissi, and historical sites including the Palace of Knossos. The Samaria Gorge reopens for hiking, and the Mediterranean waters begin warming for brave swimmers.
6. Paris, France – Romantic Spring Escape
April in Paris features mild weather with blossoming trees by Notre-Dame Cathedral and throughout the Tuileries. The city awakens from winter with outdoor café culture returning to full swing.
Stroll along the Seine, visit world-class museums before summer queues form, and catch excellent art exhibitions. Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin des Plantes showcase spring flowers at their finest.
7. Mendoza, Argentina – Wine Country
April marks mid-autumn in Argentina, the best month to visit Mendoza as wineries finish harvest and begin winemaking. Sample famous Malbec while enjoying day trips to the Andes Mountains.
The cooler autumn temperatures make this ideal for vineyard tours and outdoor dining. Many bodegas offer behind-the-scenes looks at the fermentation process, paired with spectacular mountain views.
8. Istanbul, Turkey – Tulip Festival
During Istanbul’s annual tulip festival in April, the city is covered in millions of colourful blooms. The temperate weather makes this perfect for exploring outdoor ancient sites that can be scorching in summer.
Visit the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace without the intense heat or massive crowds. Take a Bosphorus cruise and explore the Grand Bazaar’s covered corridors filled with carpets, ceramics, and spices.
9. Belize – Caribbean Paradise
In April, Belize enjoys fresh trade winds, rare rains, barely any bugs, and the high season is winding down. World-class coral reefs await divers and snorkelers, while ancient Mayan ruins stand uncrowded.
Explore Caye Caulker’s laid-back island life, dive the Great Blue Hole, or venture inland to jungle reserves. The combination of Caribbean coast and rainforest interior offers diverse experiences.
10. South Korea – Spring Blossoms
While cherry blossom timing is never guaranteed, April is the best time to travel to South Korea hoping to see the blooms. Festivals across the country celebrate with military band parades and seasonal markets.
Seoul’s palaces provide stunning backdrops for blossom viewing, while Busan’s coastal position offers both flowers and ocean views. Jeju Island combines volcanic landscapes with spring flora.
11. Seville, Spain – Cultural Capital
April brings comfortable temperatures to southern Spain before the searing summer heat. Seville potentially hosts Easter week (Semana Santa) in April 2026, featuring elaborate religious processions through historic streets.
The Real Alcázar gardens flourish with spring blooms, flamenco shows heat up in intimate tablaos, and tapas bars spill onto sunny plazas. Visit the world’s largest Gothic cathedral and climb the Giralda tower for panoramic views.
12. Cornwall, UK – Coastal Beauty
April can be a surprisingly good time to holiday in the UK, particularly towards the month’s end. Cornwall’s coastline awakens with spring flowers carpeting the clifftop paths.
Explore St Ives’ artist studios and beaches, visit the Eden Project’s biomes, and walk sections of the South West Coast Path. Seafood restaurants serve fresh catches, and the mild weather allows for outdoor adventures without summer’s crowds.
13. Naples & Amalfi Coast, Italy
April is one of the best times to visit Italy when men offer rosebud gifts during Festa di San Marco. The Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs and colourful villages shine in spring sunshine.
Base yourself in Sorrento to explore Pompeii’s ruins, take boat trips to Capri, and sample authentic Neapolitan pizza. Lemon groves bloom along terraced hillsides, and ferries resume regular services connecting coastal towns.
14. Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Temperatures in Mexico pick up in April, making this ideal for exploring beaches, cenotes, and towns of the Yucatán Peninsula. The Mayan Riviera’s calm, warm seas invite swimming and snorkeling.
Visit Chichén Itzá before the heat intensifies, swim in crystal-clear cenotes, and relax on Caribbean beaches. Tulum combines beachfront Mayan ruins with boutique hotels and wellness retreats.
15. The Lake District, UK
The Lake District is perfect in April for hiking and enjoying scenic views as flowers bloom. England’s largest national park comes alive with spring colours against dramatic mountain backdrops.
Walk around Windermere or Ullswater, visit Beatrix Potter’s former home, and explore charming villages like Grasmere. April sees Scotland’s castles reopening and flowers blanketing England’s Lake District as springtime arrives in the UK.
Planning Your April Adventure
When to Book
Reserve accommodation and tickets early for popular destinations, especially Japan during cherry blossom season. For spontaneous trips, mid-April often offers better availability than Easter weekend (5 April 2026).
Weather Expectations
April brings transitional weather across most destinations. Pack layers for temperature changes between day and night. Mediterranean destinations offer 20°C+ temperatures, while northern Europe stays cooler at 10-15°C.
Budget Considerations
Travelling before or after Easter weekend typically costs less. Look for early booking discounts and package deals that combine accommodation with activities.
Top Tip for Entertainment Seekers
If you’re visiting Blackpool, checking the Funny Girls show schedule should be your first planning step. This ensures you don’t miss out on what many consider the highlight of their UK spring break.
FAQs
What is the warmest place to visit in April from the UK?
The Canary Islands consistently offer the warmest April weather from the UK, with temperatures reaching 22-25°C. Dubai and Morocco also provide reliable heat with minimal rainfall. Caribbean destinations like Belize combine warmth with the tail end of the dry season, offering excellent beach conditions before the summer rains arrive.
Is April a good time to visit Blackpool for shows?
Yes, April is an excellent time to visit Blackpool. The spring season kicks off with full entertainment schedules, including the famous Funny Girls cabaret show. Weather is mild enough for promenade walks, and you’ll avoid peak summer crowds while still enjoying all major attractions. Book show tickets in advance through the venue’s website for the best seating options.
Which destinations offer the best value in April?
Mediterranean destinations like Crete, Turkey, and Portugal offer excellent value in April with pleasant weather but lower prices than peak summer. Eastern European cities like Krakow provide affordable city breaks. Within the UK, Cornwall and the Lake District offer reasonable rates before the May half-term rush begins, making them budget-friendly spring options.
Can you see cherry blossoms in Europe in April?
Yes, several European cities showcase beautiful cherry blossoms in April. Germany’s Bonn features a stunning cherry blossom tunnel on Heerstraße, while Stockholm’s Kungsträdgården Park transforms into a pink paradise. Paris, Copenhagen, and London also have excellent cherry blossom viewing spots, offering European alternatives to Japan’s famous sakura season.
What should I pack for an April holiday?
Pack layers as April weather can be unpredictable across most destinations. Bring a light waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and clothes you can layer. Mediterranean destinations need sunscreen and swimwear, while UK breaks benefit from a warm fleece for cooler evenings. Always pack one smart outfit for restaurants or evening entertainment like the Funny Girls show.
