A travel expert recommends these cities that are often hot and sunny in April – perfect for escaping the British weather
A travel expert from consumer champion Which? has picked out some global destinations that typically bask in glorious sunshine and warmth around April – a welcome change for Brits who’ve endured months of grey skies. Several of these locations are just a quick hop across Europe, while others may require a slightly longer journey.
Travel journalist Jo Rhodes claimed these areas regularly see temperatures soaring to 31°C during April. She said: “It’s been a long winter, and if the promise of summer is still too far away, an April holiday could provide a much-needed dose of vitamin D.
“Better still, the Easter bank holidays mean you can maximise your annual leave for an extended time away from the daily grind. Block out your calendar because these are the best destinations for an April escape.”
1. Bali, Indonesia
Boasting sun-drenched coastlines and stunning temples, this Indonesian island chain has been captivating visitors for generations. Travellers flock to marvel at the floating Hindu water temple of Ulun Danu Beratan or immerse themselves in the sacred springs of Tirta Empul, reports the Express.
Meanwhile, Ubud calls from the highlands, showcasing its stepped rice terraces and verdant rainforest. April marks the beginning of the dry season, delivering balmy, sunny conditions with temperatures peaking at 31°C – yet the tourist masses haven’t descended.
2. Málaga, Spain
Jo explained: “The Andalucian city isn’t just a gateway to the Costa Del Sol – it’s a destination in its own right. Make sure to visit the 11th-century honey-coloured Alcazaba fortress – all horseshoe Moorish arches, tiled patios and ornate gardens. You’ll find a Roman theatre in its shadow at the foot of Mount Gibralfaro.”
Visitors can enjoy temperatures approaching 20°C in April, with Easter an especially enchanting time. Jo said: “Easter is a particularly magical time to visit, when religious processions carrying heavily decorated thrones fill the streets for Semana Santa.”
3. Lisbon, Portugal
Which? championed this “laid-back waterfront city” amongst the “best spots to visit in spring”, where April temperatures hover around 19°C. Jo described how the Portuguese capital boasts a stunning “old town in bloom” that’s “bathed in eight hours of sunshine a day”.
She added: “The yellow number 28 tram rattles up to the hilltop Alfama district, where you can café hop its labyrinth of steep, cobbled streets. At this time of year, you’ll find bougainvillaea in a riot of pinks, purples and yellows adorning wrought-iron balconies and traditional wooden doorways.”
4. Bordeaux, France
Jo said: “Bordeaux is one of the cheapest spots we found to fly to this April, and there’s a lot more to this city than wine.” Boasting April temperatures hitting 18°C, Bordeaux has earned its nickname of ‘Little Paris’ thanks to its tree-lined riverside promenade offering “one of the prettiest walks in Europe without the crowds”.
The travel expert added: “Wander through the ivy-blanketed Chartrons neighbourhood, admire the Gothic Saint-Louis church, and window shop the boutiques of Rue Notre Dame.”
5. Sicily, Italy
The Mediterranean’s largest island, Sicily, boasts picturesque hilltop villages, remarkably preserved ancient sites and abundant white sandy shores with temperatures hovering around 18°C. According to Jo, April days are “getting warmer and longer” across the island – yet it remains “much less crowded than in the busy summer months”.
6. Tbilisi, Georgia
For those wanting to venture beyond Europe’s borders, Georgia is steadily climbing travellers’ bucket lists – and with excellent reason. Jo recommended this 18°C destination featuring “majestic mountains, hilltop monasteries, and a thriving food and drink scene” positioned right on Asia’s doorstep.
She said: “Go in April to avoid the summer heat, especially if you plan to visit the lowlands. Capital Tbisili’s dramatic valley setting and colourful Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and dome-shaped bathhouses, are sure to dazzle.”
7. Kyoto, Japan
Japan’s imperial capital becomes utterly enchanting during April’s cherry blossom season, with temperatures hovering around 17°C. Jo recommended: “Don’t miss a stroll through the nearby bamboo forest or the chance to drift down the Oi River on a houseboat.
“Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, also home to more than 100 Japanese macaque monkeys, is one of the best spots to see them. Don’t miss a stroll through the nearby bamboo forest or the chance to drift down the Oi River on a houseboat.”
