Welcome back to The Velvet Runway, and our guide to The Best Places to Visit in April 2024, by Hannah REES.
As spring blossoms around the world, April beckons with the promise of mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and a perfect window for travel. If you’re planning your next getaway in April 2024, consider visiting one of these enchanting destinations that offer a perfect blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and unique experiences.
Whether you seek natural beauty, cultural experiences, or adventure, these destinations will surely captivate your senses and create unforgettable memories. Let’s dive into the list of the best places to visit in April 2024!
The Best Places to Visit in April 2024
1. Cinque Terre, Italy
Cinque Terre, which translates as “Five Lands” in Italian, refers to a picturesque coastal region on the Italian Riviera. It comprises five colourful fishing villages, each perched on the rugged cliffs along the Ligurian Sea : Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore.
These five villages are linked by hiking trails and a coastal train that provides an easy link between them, and visitors can explore the villages on foot, by train or by boat.
The entire Cinque Terre region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for tourists seeking a combination of unspoilt beauty, a peaceful seaside environment, and a delicious local cuisine.
And the whole place is even more picturesque in April, when the surrounding hills and terraced vineyards overlooking the Mediterranean Sea come alive with blossoming flowers. The weather is generally pleasant, with mild, comfortable temperatures and most places that may have closed during the winter months will likely be open again.
However, it’s still considered shoulder season, meaning there are fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months and this allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, and earns Cinque Terre its place in our list of the best places to visit in April 2024.
2. Dahab, Egypt
Dahab is a charming coastal town located on the Gulf of Aqaba, in the south-eastern part of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. Compared to other tourist destinations in the region, Dahab has a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, with beachside cafes, restaurants and bars where you can relax with a drink and enjoy the sea breeze.
It generally attracts a varied crowd, including backpackers and travellers and just inland from Dahab, you’ll find the Sinai Desert, which you can explore on the back of a camel.
Dahab can be a fantastic destination in April, as it marks the transition from winter to spring, bringing pleasant, warm weather. You can visit nearby attractions such as St Catherine’s Monastery, or, as Dahab is influenced by Bedouin culture, discover the bustling local markets, known as souks, where you can buy jewellery and local handmade products.
In April, the sea temperature warms up, making it an ideal time for swimming, snorkelling and discovering the underwater world. Visibility underwater is generally good, and you’ll be able to explore sites like the Blue Hole and the Coral Garden.
This time of year also has excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing and the Dahab lagoon offers a suitable environment for beginners and more experienced individuals.
3. Petra, Jordan
Petra is an ancient archaeological site located in southern Jordan and it is often referred to as the “Rose City” due to the color of the stone from which it is carved. It is situated in a narrow canyon known as the Siq, which provides a dramatic entrance to the city, which was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom in the 4th century BC and later became a major trading hub in the ancient world.
The city’s most famous structure is the “Al-Khazneh“, or the Treasury, a well-preserved temple carved into the cliffs. The monument gained international fame when it was featured in the film “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade“. Other notable structures include the Monastery, the Royal Tombs, the Roman Theater, and the Qasr al-Bint temple, and around is stunning desert landscapes.
Petra was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 due to its cultural and historical significance and it is also considered one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
It’s a major tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the globe and the site offers guided tours to explore the ancient city and learn about its history.
In April, the weather in Petra is generally mild and pleasant, providing comfortable conditions for exploring the ancient city without the extreme heat of the summer months and with less crowds as well.
When visiting Petra, it’s important to allow plenty of time to explore the site, wear comfortable shoes for walking, and pack essentials such as water and sun protection, as the desert environment can be challenging.
4. Paris, France
Paris, often referred to as the “City of Light” (La Ville Lumière), is the capital city of France and is located in the north-central part of the country. It is one of the world’s most iconic and influential cities, known for its rich history, cultural heritage and architecture, which have made it a world centre for art, fashion and gastronomy, as well as a major tourist destination.
The city is divided into districts called arrondissements, with the river Seine running through the heart of the city, dividing it into left bank and right bank, and people come from all over the world to see its monuments such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, the Champs-Élysées and, of course, the Eiffel Tower, which ranks as the most visited monument in the world.
April marks the beginning of spring in Paris and is an ideal time to visit the city. If you don’t believe me, listen to Vernon Duke and Yip Harburg or the many jazz singers who have sung about it : “April in Paris, this is a feeling that no one can ever reprise“
The weather is generally mild and is perfect for strolling along the Seine or enjoying the cafés and restaurants. The city is not as crowded as it is during the summer months, meaning you can enjoy popular attractions and iconic sites with a little more space and fewer queues.
But the best thing about April in Paris is that the city comes to life with colorful flowers and the gardens and parks, such as the Luxembourg Gardens, the Tuileries Gardens and the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, are particularly beautiful during this time when the cherry blossoms and other flowers start to bloom.
And if you’re wondering what to wear in Paris in Spring, we have you covered too!
5. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe.
Victoria Falls is one of the most iconic and spectacular natural wonders in the world and it is located on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zambia to the north and Zimbabwe to the south in southern Africa.
Victoria Falls was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989 and if it was named by British explorer David Livingstone in honor of Queen Victoria, it is called “Mosi-oa-Tunya” in the Kololo language, which means “The Smoke That Thunders.”
The Falls can be visited year-round, but the experience can vary depending on the season. April can be a good time to visit as it’s typically towards the end of the rainy season in the region, meaning that the Zambezi River, which feeds Victoria Falls, is still in full flow. This can result in impressive volumes of water cascading and creating a breathtaking spectacle.
On top of that, the surrounding landscapes are lush and green after the rains and the abundance of water can attract wildlife to the riverbanks of the Zambezi River, including various bird species and hippos.
The towns of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and Livingstone in Zambia are popular bases for visitors and there are viewpoints on both the Zimbabwean and Zambian sides of the falls, providing different perspectives.
April is within the fall season in the southern hemisphere, and temperatures are generally mild and comfortable, making it pleasant for outdoor activities, such as bungee jumping from the Victoria Falls Bridge, white-water rafting in the Zambezi River, helicopter flights over the falls, and zip-lining.
But it falls outside the peak tourist season, so you may encounter fewer crowds compared to the months around the Christmas holidays and the mid-year vacation period.
6. Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Amsterdam is one of the most well-known and vibrant cities in Europe. Often referred to as the “Venice of the North” due to its numerous canals, which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, its famous for its historic architecture, cultural attractions, and liberal atmosphere, and is definitely one of The Best Places to Visit in April 2024.
Amsterdam is home to world-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House and the city boasts a wealth of historic architecture, including 17th-century canal houses, the Royal Palace on Dam Square, and the Westerkerk church.
The city is known for its diverse and inclusive atmosphere, as well as its liberal policies, and the Red Light District is one of the areas where these policies are evident.
Now, the Netherlands is famous for its tulip fields and in April, the Keukenhof Gardens near Amsterdam are in full bloom, providing a spectacular display of tulips and other flowers. The weather becomes milder and is great for outdoor activities, such as cycling or walking along the canals, exploring parks like Vondelpark, or taking a boat tour.
One of the major events in April is King’s Day, celebrated on April 27th. This national holiday marks the birthday of King Willem-Alexander, and the city comes alive with vibrant street parties, parades, and various festivities in orange, the color of the Dutch royal family.
7. La Valette, Malta
La Valette, more commonly known as Valletta, is the capital city of Malta and it is situated on the northeast coast of the island. Valletta was founded by the Order of Saint John in the 16th century and played a crucial role in Malta’s history as it served as a strategic fortress during various conflicts, including the Great Siege of Malta in 1565.
The historic center of the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by impressive fortifications, including bastions and walls. It is characterized by narrow streets, grand palaces, churches, and historic buildings, and notable landmarks include St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the Grand Master’s Palace, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens. Valletta is also home to various museums, such as the National Museum of Archaeology and the National Museum of Fine Arts, as well as galleries, and in 2018, Valletta held the title of European Capital of Culture.
Spring is a time when flowers start to bloom, and you can expect to see colorful gardens and parks in full display. And because Valletta is a compact city that can be easily explored on foot, you can stroll through the charming streets, enjoy the architecture, and discover the city’s history at a leisurely pace.
8. Joshua Tree National Park, USA
Joshua Tree National Park is a national park located in southeastern California, USA, known for its unique desert landscapes, rock formations (including Skull Rock, Arch Rock, and the Wonderland of Rocks), and the distinctive Joshua tree (Yucca brevifolia) after which the park is named.
The park was first established as a national monument in 1936 and later designated as a national park in 1994. It spans two distinct desert ecosystems: the Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert, and it has historical sites, including remnants of old mining operations and evidence of Native American occupation dating back thousands of years.
April falls between the cooler months of winter and the hotter months of summer and can be an excellent time to visit Joshua Tree National Park as the weather is mild and pleasant. The park offers numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty levels and despite the harsh desert environment, Joshua Tree National Park is home to a variety of wildlife and you may see bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, coyotes, jackrabbits, and a diverse range of bird species.
The park is a designated International Dark Sky Park, and the clear skies of April make it an excellent destination for stargazing, and ensure the Joshua Tree National Park its spot in the ten best places to visit in April 2024.
9. Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi is the capital and one of the largest cities in Vietnam. It is located in the northern part of the country and serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of Vietnam.
It’s is a cultural hub with a vibrant art scene and historical landmarks, and it features vibrant markets such as Dong Xuan Market and Long Bien Market, where visitors can experience the local atmosphere, shop for souvenirs, and sample a variety of local dishes, such as pho, bun cha and banh mi.
The Old Quarter is Hanoi’s historic district and offers a glimpse into the city’s past, while the French Quarter reflects the influence of French colonialism with wide boulevards, elegant buildings and charming cafés.
April marks the end of the winter season and the beginning of spring in Hanoi. The weather is typically warm and pleasant and the humidity is relatively low. It is also a festive month in Vietnam, with several important holidays such as the celebration of Reunification Day (April 30), celebrated with parades and traditional performances.
Hanoi is famous for its water puppetry, a traditional art form that originated in the villages of the Red River Delta and dating back centuries, and April provides an excellent time to enjoy these performances at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre.
10. Roatán, Honduras
Roatán is an island located in the Caribbean Sea, off the northern coast of Honduras. It is the largest of the Bay Islands and is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, making Roatán a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving.
As well as water-based activities, Roatán offers plenty of opportunities for land-based adventures and visitors can explore hiking trails, zip-line through the canopy or enjoy the island’s rich culture, evident in the local music, dance and cuisine.
April can be a great time to visit Roatán as it falls within the dry season, and the weather is generally warm and pleasant.
The Caribbean Sea tends to be calmer during the dry season, and clear waters make it an excellent time to explore the vibrant coral reefs around the island. Snorkelers and divers may have the opportunity to see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and possibly dolphins or whale sharks.
And since it falls after the peak tourist season, which is typically during the winter months, April allows you to enjoy the beauty of Roatán with fewer crowds.
If your visit coincides with Easter, you may have the opportunity to experience local celebrations and cultural events as Easter is an important holiday in Honduras, and Roatán may host special festivities and activities.
Final words on The Best Places to Visit in April 2024
And if none of these destinations appeal, head to Phuket, a stunning island in southern Thailand and a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate and vibrant culture. April is a wonderful time to visit Phuket, as the weather is warm and sunny, with very little chance of rain. Temperatures are around 28°C and the sea is warm and calm, perfect for water-based activities such as swimming and snorkelling.
Another great reason to go in April 2024 is the Songkran festival, Thailand’s New Year celebrations.
Whether you seek the tranquility of ancient cities or the dynamic energy of modern metropolises, these destinations offer a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unique experiences. Pack your bags and embark on a memorable April adventure, where each destination invites you to embrace the enchantment of the season
If you need any help planning your trip, then have a look here.
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Article By Hannah Rees
Hannah Rees is a writer based in Paris. She currently divides her time between completing her second novel, writing songs on her guitar and working as a fashion designer for private clients. She has a strong fashion background, having studied fashion design in Paris, and counts Prada, Lemaire, House of Marlow, Saint Laurent and Stella McCartney among her influences. She loves discovering the world and dreams of going to Iceland.
March 7, 2024 at 3:11 pmGreat, very inspiring post! I would love to visit all the places if I had the opportunity 🙂
March 8, 2024 at 1:43 pmSo glad you enjoyed the post and I hope you get to visit some of the places 😊
March 5, 2024 at 7:54 pmHello!
These places you show us are so marvellous that it’s hard to choose just one!!!
xoxo
marisasclosetblog.com
March 8, 2024 at 1:23 pmThank you Marissa! I agree that it’s hard to choose just one! But, you can bookmark the others for later 😊
March 5, 2024 at 2:38 pmAll looks incredible! I need a holiday after reading this!
Gemma x
http://www.jacquardflower.uk
March 8, 2024 at 1:17 pmThanks Gemma! There are plenty of places to choose from 😊
March 5, 2024 at 12:52 pmYes please to all these destinations! I can’t decided which one I want to go to first. I know my husband would love to see Victoria Falls!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
March 8, 2024 at 1:24 pmI would love to visit them all too! My top two are Petra and The Victoria Falls x
March 5, 2024 at 12:21 amWonderful selection of places.
March 8, 2024 at 1:13 pmThank you Christine x