Plan A Spring Getaway To These Classic European Destinations

The spring is perhaps the perfect season to consider a coach tour, before the summer throngs of tourists gather and the weather is pleasant but not too hot. If you want to shake off the last of the drab grey winter skies here in the UK, then why not take a continental tour to experience the magic of a European city.

Here are a few trips to the best of Europe that will bring you culture, history and beauty this spring!

Paris

The French capital offers everything you could desire from a city break: world-famous sights such as the Eiffel Tower; first class cultural experiences such as the Louvre; and of course cuisine that is second to none. 

You may  want to simply idle a few days away watching the world go by as you sit outside a café, soaking up the sights and sounds. This is a favourite ritual for seasoned Parisiennes, who may be enjoying a coffee or a glass of wine with a friend, reading the paper, people-watching, or even working!

Paris is divided by the iconic Seine River into the Left Bank and the Right Bank. To the left, you will find Muśe d’Orsay and the Latin Quarter, and to the right you will find the renowned Louvre Museum. Here you can view some of the world’s most famous masterpieces such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, and the Venus de Milo.

If you want to get around more, you can take the Metro or even rent a bike. For a day trip out of the city, the Palace of Versailles is well worth a visit. Paris is also celebrated for its gardens, which are particularly beautiful in the springtime, coming alive with magnolias and cherry blossom. 

Take a leisurely stroll around the city and visit Parc Monceau, just a short walk from the Arc de Triumph. A hidden gem behind the Louvre is the Palais Royal, where you can enjoy a picnic and soak up the sunshine. There’s also the larger and more formal Tuileries Garden and Luxembourg Gardens that are popular spots to relax on a sunny afternoon.

Montmartre is another must-see area of Paris. It’s a picturesque urban village full of charming cafés, restaurants and bars to keep you refreshed throughout the day. Be prepared as some of the cobblestone streets are surprisingly steep! Tour some of the historic architecture and the legendary spots where world-famous artists cut their teeth,

Barcelona

At the heart of Catalonia is the vibrant city of Barcelona, celebrated for its exquisite Art Nouveau architecture and rich cultural heritage. It’s a city that you’ll want to return to time and again to really appreciate all that it has to offer. Soak up the Mediterranean vibes on the nearby sandy beaches, and eat your fill of tapas and explore the bustling street markets.

The Sagrada Familia is a must-see, designed by the genius architect Antoni Gaudi who never saw the project completed before his death in 1926. The project began in 1882 and it was declared an UNESCO world Heritage Site in 20025. Gaudi designed the spellbinding structure with five naves, three facades, and eighteen towers.

Other famous Guadi structures include Casa Batllo, a fairytale building with an undulating roof and ceramic and glass facade. It’s said to have been inspired by the story of a mythical dragon. Round off your Gaudi tour with a visit to Park Guell, a flamboyant park perched high above the city. It’s a fascinating oasis that is full of quirky features and lush greenery.

The city has a wealth of art galleries and museums to explore to your heart’s content, and you will never be too far away from an excellent place to eat and drink. It really needs at least seven days to soak up all the delights of this diverse city. Be aware that it does get crowded and it’s best to avoid big events such as religious holidays and trade fairs.

Venice 

No tour of Europe would be complete without a visit to Venice, the city that is famously built on water. It is a network of canals and historic bridges, where you must take a gondola ride to fully experience the historic yet vibrant atmosphere. The jewel of the crown is St. Mark’s Basilica, a magnificent cathedral and a fascinating mixture of architectural styles. 

Verona and Lake Garda

Verona is one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in Europe, famous as the fictional setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. There are many wonderful sights to see, including the Verona Arena, one of the most outstanding examples of a Roman amphitheatre.  

The Piazza delle Erbe is the central square that was once the town forum in the days of the Roman Empire. It is the ultimate photo opportunity, with a charming fountain and many buildings of historical importance. 

Of course, no visit to Verona would be complete without a visit to the Casa di Giulietta (Juliet’s House). This is a thirteenth century palace that is the site of the world’s most famous balcony, although it wasn’t added until 1928. It’s doubtness been the scene of a million marriage proposals! Probably best avoided on Valentine’s Day…

Lake Garda is just a short drive from Verona, and offers a stunningly beautiful combination of mountains, lakes, and pretty villages. It’s a paradise for fans of outdoor activities, with a range of watersports, mountain biking, hiking, or hang gliding options. 

Alternatively you can make a 95-mile road-trip around the lake, taking in the historic towns and villages along the way. It’s ideal to take the trip by coach, where you will be able to enjoy the spectacular views to the maximum.