‘Avignon warmed our bones and fed our souls’: readers’ favourite early spring trips to southern Europe

Spring here is a revelation, inviting visitors to embrace the outdoors. Avid hikers can challenge themselves on trails leading to the lesser-known but rewarding Col de l’Arpettaz, or explore countless paths winding through the pre-Alps. However, the true gem for active travellers is the extensive network of "voies vertes" – dedicated greenways – that hug the lake’s perimeter. These impeccably maintained cycle paths, particularly the famous 42-kilometre Annecy Lake Cycle Path, offer an unparalleled experience, allowing cyclists of all abilities to glide along the shimmering turquoise waters, framed by verdant hillsides and snow-capped peaks. The path is largely flat, making it ideal for families and casual riders, while offering breathtaking panoramic vistas at every turn. Bicycle rental shops are plentiful, providing a sustainable and immersive way to discover the region’s natural splendour.

Beyond the immediate beauty, the region holds deeper secrets. Behind Saint-Jorioz lies the Massif des Bauges UNESCO Global Geopark, an underrated natural wonder spanning 856 square kilometres. This protected area is a haven of biodiversity and geological significance, offering dramatic landscapes, deep gorges, and rich cultural heritage. Its rugged terrain is perfect for more adventurous pursuits, from mountain biking to paragliding. The Haute-Savoie department itself, having only become part of France in 1860 following the Treaty of Turin, retains a distinctive cultural identity, notably reflected in its Italian-influenced regional cuisine. Expect hearty, flavourful dishes that blend Alpine traditions with Mediterranean zest, such as tartiflette (a potato, reblochon cheese, lardons, and onion gratin), fondue savoyarde, or raclette, often accompanied by local cheeses like Tomme de Savoie or Beaufort, and crisp Savoie wines. Spring brings a gentle warmth, fewer crowds than the peak summer months, and the vibrant awakening of flora, making it an optimal time to soak in the cool blue alpine waters and explore the region’s unique heritage.

Naples is best in early spring, offering a unique and vibrant slice of Italy that often defies conventional beauty standards. Unlike the manicured elegance of Florence or the regal grandeur of Turin, Naples is a raw, captivating, and intensely "lived-in" city. Its ancient streets pulse with a palpable energy, reflecting a history that stretches back millennia, from its Greek foundations as Neapolis to its status as the capital of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Early spring is the ideal time to experience this southern Italian metropolis, as the weather is mild and pleasant, allowing for comfortable exploration before the intense heat and tourist throngs of summer descend.

The city’s heart is the Spaccanapoli, a narrow, bustling street that literally "splits Naples" in two. Walking its length is an immersive journey into Neapolitan life, past ancient churches, artisan workshops, lively markets, and the aroma of authentic pizza emanating from every corner. Naples is, after all, the birthplace of pizza, and indulging in a traditional Neapolitan margherita is a culinary pilgrimage. Beyond pizza, the city’s culinary tradition is immensely rich, featuring robust pasta dishes like ragù napoletano, delicate seafood, and delectable pastries such as sfogliatella and babà.

Naples also serves as a gateway to some of Italy’s most iconic historical and natural wonders. The world-class archaeological sites of Pompeii and Herculaneum, frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, are easily accessible and profoundly moving. Hiking up Mount Vesuvius itself offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Bay of Naples. Further afield, the charming coastal town of Sorrento acts as a stepping stone to the legendary Amalfi Coast, while the enchanting islands of Capri, Ischia, and Procida beckon with their unique charms. Capri boasts glamorous grottoes and designer boutiques, Ischia offers relaxing thermal spas, and colourful Procida provides an authentic fishing village experience. For UK travellers, reaching Naples by train is a viable and scenic option, typically taking around 15 hours from London via high-speed connections in Paris and either Turin or Milan, offering a comfortable and eco-conscious journey.

Take the ferry to Corsica for an unforgettable spring adventure, exploring an island known as the "Île de Beauté" (Island of Beauty). This diverse Mediterranean gem, with its rugged mountains plunging into turquoise seas, is best discovered during the mid to late spring months. The journey itself can be a delightful part of the experience: a Eurostar from London to Marseille offers an easy connection, perhaps with a refreshing shower at the station and a taste of the vibrant Vieux Port before boarding a comfortable overnight ferry to Bastia, Corsica. Arriving refreshed for breakfast in Bastia, you’re immediately immersed in the island’s unique atmosphere.

Bastia, with its Genoese citadel, colourful Old Port, and bustling markets, offers a charming introduction. From here, the scenic mountain railway, affectionately known as "U Trinichellu" (the little train), provides a captivating journey into the remarkably unspoiled interior of the island. This unique rail link winds through dramatic landscapes, connecting coastal towns with remote mountain villages, offering glimpses of Corsica’s wild heart that are otherwise hard to access.

Spring transforms Corsica into a paradise. The hillsides are blanketed with a fragrant mosaic of wildflowers, known as maquis, creating a stunning contrast with the still-snowy peaks of the island’s formidable mountains. Snow-melt replenishes streams and waterfalls, creating cascading spectacles that dry up later in summer. The weather is sunny yet exceedingly pleasant, perfect for hiking the famous GR20 trail (or parts of it), exploring ancient villages perched precariously on hillsides, or simply relaxing on secluded beaches. This is also a time when wild animals, from mouflon to Corsican deer, are nurturing their young, offering chances for unique wildlife spotting. Moreover, the island’s locals are refreshed in mood, and the absence of peak season crowds allows for a more authentic and intimate experience of Corsican culture, rich in its distinctive language, music, and robust cuisine featuring delicious charcuterie, artisanal cheeses, and chestnut flour specialities.

Germany’s greenest, sunniest city, Freiburg im Breisgau, beckons as an ideal spring destination. This charming city in the Black Forest region is easily accessible from the UK: take the Eurostar to Paris, then continue east via Strasbourg, or opt for a route via Brussels and Cologne, connecting to a high-speed train that glides through the rolling hills and vineyards of Alsace to reach Freiburg. Known for its progressive environmental policies, abundant sunshine, and verdant surroundings, Freiburg consistently ranks among Germany’s most liveable cities.

The city itself is a delight to explore on foot, with its picturesque Old Town crisscrossed by the Bächle – small, open water channels that once supplied water for various purposes and now add to its unique charm. The imposing Freiburg Minster, a Gothic masterpiece, dominates the skyline. Beyond the city, the Black Forest offers a plethora of attractions. Visitors can delve into the whimsical world of Triberg, home to Germany’s highest waterfalls and the fascinating cuckoo clocks for which the region is famous. For a different perspective, the treetop walk in Bad Wildbad offers an exhilarating experience, allowing you to stroll among the canopy and enjoy panoramic views of the forest.

Culinary delights abound in Freiburg. Feast on hearty Swabian classics like Käsespätzle (cheesy egg noodles with caramelised onion), or explore international flavours at places like YepaYepa, known for its vibrant tacos. For an authentic German experience, drop into Hausbrauerei Feierling’s lively beer garden, especially pleasant in the mild spring air, to enjoy freshly brewed local beers. A significant advantage for visitors is the Konus guest card, offered by participating towns in the Black Forest. This card provides free public transport throughout the entire region for the duration of your stay, making exploration both convenient and environmentally friendly. Spring brings blossoming landscapes, comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking or cycling, and the lively atmosphere of outdoor cafes and beer gardens.

Tiny beaches near Nice offer a more intimate and serene Côte d’Azur experience, particularly in spring. Villefranche-sur-Mer, just a few miles east of the bustling city of Nice, has been my cherished spring break destination for years. Its undeniable charm lies in its historic heart, a labyrinth of narrow, pastel-coloured streets leading down to one of the most beautiful deepwater bays in the world. The town’s authentic fishing village feel, combined with its proximity to spectacular coastlines and mountains, makes it an unbeatable base.

Access is effortless: a TGV train from London to Nice, followed by a brief, scenic local train ride of just a few minutes, brings you directly to Villefranche-sur-Mer. This local train also makes day trips to glamorous Cannes or charming Menton incredibly convenient. In spring, the air is typically warm enough for a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean. Seek out the tiny, secluded Plage de la Darse, nestled within the harbour walls, or venture a little further to Plage de la Fosse on the exclusive Cap Ferrat peninsula. Cap Ferrat itself is a wonderland of luxurious villas, lush gardens (like the stunning Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild), and picturesque coastal paths, offering delightful walks with breathtaking sea views. Spring on the French Riviera means pleasant temperatures, blooming bougainvillea, and fewer crowds than the summer peak, allowing for a more relaxed exploration of its stunning beauty and excellent cafes and restaurants. The local Niçoise cuisine, rich in fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavours, is a highlight.

Lemons and light on the Côte d’Azur define the enchanting experience of Menton in early April. My sister and I discovered this "Pearl of France," the last French town before the Italian border, and were captivated by its unique microclimate and vibrant atmosphere. We spent our days meandering through cobbled streets lined with pastel-coloured buildings, a characteristic blend of French elegance and Italian vivacity. The culinary scene reflects this fusion, offering a delicious mix of French Riviera specialities and Italian delights. The calm, blue bay invites leisurely paddles, with the water gradually warming up as spring progresses.

One of the most memorable aspects was trekking in the hills north of the town. These paths, winding past stunning villas, fragrant pine trees, and a riot of spring flowers, led us to Maison Gannac. This esteemed citrus farm cultivates the legendary Menton lemon, renowned globally for its exceptional flavour, intense aroma, and thinner skin, making it a prized ingredient in local cuisine, from tarts to limoncello. The city itself celebrates this fruit with its famous Fête du Citron, though it typically occurs earlier in the spring. Menton’s botanical gardens, benefiting from its unique climate, are also in full bloom, showcasing exotic and Mediterranean flora. Beyond the gardens, the old town’s Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange and the Jean Cocteau Museum add cultural depth to the sensory feast. The gentle light of early spring illuminates Menton’s vibrant colours, offering perfect conditions for exploring its rich heritage and natural beauty without the summer heat or crowds.

A boat trip along the Moselle in Germany in April is a journey through a landscape that truly comes alive. Our adventure began in Trier, Germany’s oldest city, a former Roman capital boasting an incredible array of ancient sites, most notably the Porta Nigra gate. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a profound dive into Roman history, with its Imperial Baths and Amphitheater also testament to its past grandeur. From Trier, we followed the winding Moselle River north-west, a journey of approximately 30 miles, to reach Bernkastel-Kues. This picturesque twin town, famed for its medieval market square and half-timbered houses, offers panoramic views from the ruins of Burg Landshut, perched high above the river’s dramatic loop.

The heart of the Moselle experience lies in its river excursions. We enjoyed several boat trips, including one to Cochem, where the iconic Reichsburg Cochem castle stands majestically above the town. From there, a charming chairlift whisked us up to the Pinnerkreuz viewpoint, providing breathtaking vistas of the castle, the river, and the surrounding terraced vineyards. Early April proved to be the perfect time: the meadows were strewn with nascent wildflowers, the vineyards were just beginning to bud, and the tourist numbers were pleasantly low. This allowed for unhurried exploration of the region’s numerous castles and charming villages. The combination of castles, scenic boat rides, and exhilarating cable car trips kept the children thoroughly entertained, while the adults found immense pleasure in sampling the fresh, crisp Moselle Valley Rieslings, celebrated for their unique minerality and fruitiness, a product of the region’s steep slate vineyards. We concluded our trip in Koblenz, strategically located at the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers. Here, the Deutsches Eck monument and the impressive Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, accessible by cable car, offer further historical and scenic interest. The city’s selection of traditional breweries provided the perfect setting to enjoy hearty German fare like Spätzle and Schnitzel, perfectly paired with local beers, rounding off a diverse and delightful spring getaway.

Coastal paths near Perpignan offer a sun-drenched escape in early spring, a perfect antidote to winter’s chill. For those seeking a journey that prioritizes the scenic route, travelling south by train is highly recommended. The Eurostar to Paris, followed by a fast TGV, can whisk you to Perpignan in a comfortable six hours. A final 25-minute local train journey then takes you to Port-Vendres, making the entire London-to-coast trip achievable in about nine hours, a testament to the efficiency of European rail.

Early spring is particularly suited to Port-Vendres, a genuine working harbour that retains an authentic, unpretentious charm. Unlike more tourist-centric destinations, many places might be quietly awaiting the peak season, but the fish market remains a vibrant hub of activity. Lunch at one of its "no-nonsense" restaurants, serving the freshest catch of the day, is an essential experience. From Port-Vendres, the coastal paths, part of the famed Sentier du Littoral, invite leisurely walks along the Côte Vermeille. This rugged stretch of coastline, where the Pyrenees meet the Mediterranean, offers dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and vineyards that cascade down to the sea. The walk to Collioure, a mere few kilometres away, is particularly rewarding. Collioure, by contrast, is brighter and busier, a picturesque haven for artists, famously frequented by Matisse and Derain, with its colourful harbour, medieval castle, and charming streets. The Pyrénées-Orientales coast is celebrated as one of France’s sunniest areas, and even out of season, the quality of light is extraordinary, enhancing the vivid colours of the landscape and the deep blue of the sea. Spring provides ideal temperatures for hiking, with the garrigue (Mediterranean scrubland) bursting into bloom, and the absence of summer crowds allows for a more tranquil appreciation of this unique French-Catalan border region and its delightful seafood and Roussillon wines.

The hazily golden city of Avignon provided an unexpected and deeply rewarding stopover on our journey to Sicily via a ferry from Genoa. Arriving in the early evening, we discovered a city bathed in a soft, golden light, its ancient stone walls and buildings glowing under the Provençal sky. Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, carries the weight of history as the seat of the papacy in the 14th century, and this rich past is evident in every winding medieval street.

Our exploration began with the sheer grandeur of the Palais des Papes (Popes’ Palace), a colossal Gothic fortress-palace that dominates the city. Its immense scale, intricate courtyards, and well-preserved frescoes offered a fascinating glimpse into a pivotal era of European history. Equally iconic is the Pont Saint-Bénézet, famously known as the Pont d’Avignon from the folk song. Though only four arches and a gatehouse remain of the 12th-century bridge, its presence stretching into the shining Rhône river evokes a powerful sense of romance and history.

What truly impressed us was Avignon’s walkability. From our very comfortable and reasonably-priced Bristol Hotel, every major attraction was easily accessible on foot. The medieval streets were a treasure trove of small, independent shops, charming squares like Place de l’Horloge, and traditional restaurants serving authentic Provençal cuisine, rich with local herbs, olive oil, and market-fresh produce, often paired with renowned regional wines like Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The evenings were pleasantly warm, inviting strolls along the riverbanks, and crucially, there were no overwhelming crowds typical of peak tourist season. This "off-season" visit allowed Avignon to reveal its true character: a city that relaxed us, warmed our bones with its gentle climate and welcoming atmosphere, and fed our souls with its profound history and undeniable beauty. The blossoming gardens and burgeoning life of spring added an extra layer of enchantment to this timeless Provençal gem.