April in Europe brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and blooming landscapes, making it one of the best months to visit the continent. The weather in Europe in April varies depending on the region. Northern and Eastern Europe still feel the last traces of winter, but temperatures are rising. Western and Central Europe experience mild weather, fresh spring blooms, and occasional rain showers. Meanwhile, Southern Europe enjoys sunny days, warm temperatures, and perfect conditions for sightseeing. With fewer crowds, reasonable travel costs, and pleasant weather, Europe in April is an excellent time to visit famous landmarks, explore nature, and experience outdoor festivals.
Weather in Europe in April: Region-wise
1. Northern Europe: Spring Slowly Arrives
Countries Covered: Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania.
The weather in Northern Europe in April begins to warm up, but it can still feel chilly, especially in early April. In Oslo (Norway), Stockholm (Sweden), and Helsinki (Finland), temperatures range from 2°C to 12°C. Reykjavik (Iceland) remains colder, with averages around 1°C to 8°C. The Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania) experience similar temperatures, between 4°C and 14°C.
Snowfall is rare in cities but still present in Arctic regions like Lapland (Finland and Sweden) and Norway’s fjords. Coastal areas like Copenhagen (Denmark) and Tallinn (Estonia) have frequent rain showers. Wind conditions remain moderate, but the strong winter gusts begin to fade. Daylight increases to 13-16 hours, allowing more time for exploration.
Cities become more active as locals enjoy the longer days. April is one of the best months to explore Scandinavian cities without harsh winter weather. The Northern Lights are still visible in early April in northern Norway and Finland. Cherry blossoms bloom in Stockholm and Helsinki, creating stunning views in city parks. Some winter attractions in Lapland and Iceland close, but cities like Stockholm, Helsinki, and Oslo come to life with outdoor markets, festivals, and springtime celebrations. However, Weather can be unpredictable, with a mix of sun, rain, and occasional cold spells. Some outdoor activities, such as fjord cruises in Norway, may still be limited due to lingering ice.
2. Western Europe: Fresh Blooms and Spring Rain
Countries Covered: UK, Ireland, France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg.
The weather in Western Europe in April is mild and fresh, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 18°C. London (UK), Paris (France), and Amsterdam (Netherlands) experience cool mornings but warmer afternoons. Berlin (Germany) and Brussels (Belgium) also warm up, with temperatures around 10°C to 17°C.
Rainfall is frequent and unpredictable but lighter than in March, especially in London, Dublin (Ireland), and Amsterdam. Some days may still feel chilly, especially in early April. The Netherlands experiences some of its windiest days in April, particularly in open landscapes. Daylight increases to 13-15 hours, giving travelers plenty of time to explore.
Cities are bustling with tourists and locals as spring officially arrives. The famous Keukenhof Tulip Gardens in the Netherlands are at their peak bloom, attracting thousands of visitors. Parks and gardens in Paris, London, and Brussels look stunning with cherry blossoms and tulips. It is a great time for cultural sightseeing, with fewer tourists than summer.
3.Central Europe: Warmer Days and Outdoor Adventures
Countries Covered: Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, Slovakia.
April in Central Europe is pleasant and fresh, with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 20°C. Vienna (Austria), Prague (Czech Republic), and Krakow (Poland) experience mild spring weather with blooming trees and green landscapes. Higher-altitude areas, like the Swiss Alps and the Carpathian Mountains, still have snow, but most cities enjoy dry and sunny days.
Rainfall is moderate, and wind speeds are mild in most areas. Daylight lasts 13-14 hours, allowing for longer sightseeing days. April is one of the best months for city sightseeing, as temperatures are comfortable. Hiking trails in Switzerland and Austria start to reopen, offering great views of mountains and lakes. Some trails may still be closed due to lingering snow. Alpine ski resorts begin closing in mid-April, so it’s the last chance for skiing.
4. Eastern Europe: A Blend of Cold and Warm Days
Countries Covered: Russia, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Belarus, Moldova.
The weather in Eastern Europe in April begins to warm up, but some areas still experience cold nights. Moscow (Russia) and Kyiv (Ukraine) range from 1°C to 12°C, while Bucharest (Romania), Sofia (Bulgaria), and Belgrade (Serbia) experience milder weather between 8°C and 20°C. Rainfall is moderate, and snow is mostly gone from cities but remains in mountain areas. Daylight lasts between 12-14 hours, making travel easier.
Cities like Bucharest, Sofia, and Belgrade come alive with spring festivals and outdoor cafés. Easter celebrations in Orthodox Christian countries are huge cultural events. Some remote mountain areas may still be inaccessible, and rain showers can be frequent, but crowds are still thin and travel is not as costly as summer months.
5. Southern Europe: The Best of Spring Weather
Countries Covered: Spain, Portugal, Italy, Greece, Malta, Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro.
April in Southern Europe is warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 12°C to 24°C. Cities like Lisbon, Rome, Athens, and Seville experience beautiful spring weather with plenty of sunshine. Rainfall is low, and the Mediterranean coast is breezy but pleasant. It is perfect for exploring historic cities, as temperatures are warm but not too hot. Cities have fewer tourists and travel my be affordable in comparison to other upcoming months.
Best Places to Visit in Europe in April
- For Spring Flowers & Cherry Blossoms: Amsterdam (Netherlands), Paris (France), London (UK), Stockholm (Sweden) – Keukenhof Tulip Gardens in the Netherlands and cherry blossoms in Paris and London’s parks make April a stunning time for nature lovers.
- For Mild Mediterranean Sun & Coastal Escapes: Lisbon (Portugal), Seville (Spain), Athens (Greece), Amalfi Coast (Italy), Dubrovnik (Croatia) – Enjoy pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful sea views before the summer rush.
- For Cultural Festivals & Easter Celebrations: Rome (Italy), Seville (Spain), Athens (Greece), Krakow (Poland) – Experience grand Easter processions, religious ceremonies, and festive markets in historic European cities.
- For Outdoor Adventures & Hiking: Swiss Alps (Switzerland), Plitvice Lakes (Croatia), Cinque Terre (Italy), Dolomites (Italy), Lake Bled (Slovenia) – Many hiking trails reopen in Alpine regions and national parks, offering breathtaking views of mountains, waterfalls, and lakes.
- For Budget-Friendly Travel & Fewer Crowds: Bucharest (Romania), Belgrade (Serbia), Sofia (Bulgaria), Riga (Latvia) – Eastern Europe offers lower prices while cities come to life with spring festivals and cultural events.
- For Last-Minute Skiing & Snow Activities: Zermatt (Switzerland), Innsbruck (Austria), Chamonix (France), Bansko (Bulgaria) – Higher-altitude ski resorts still have snow, making April the last chance for skiing and snowboarding.
- For Food & Wine Lovers: Tuscany (Italy), Bordeaux (France), Douro Valley (Portugal), La Rioja (Spain) – Experience spring wine festivals, vineyard tours, and fresh seasonal cuisine in Europe's best wine regions.
