Spring holidays

From Lyon, spring offers the chance to enjoy either a short break in Europe or a week in the sun. Rome, Seville, Lisbon and Marrakesh are particularly well-suited to a cultural getaway, with temperatures generally milder than in summer. To combine heritage with a seaside holiday, Dubrovnik, Palermo, Faro and Naples are also good options.

The choice depends mainly on the month you’re travelling. In March, it’s best to head for southern Europe and North Africa in search of milder weather. April is ideal for cities, gardens and Mediterranean regions. In May and June, the range of options expands to include islands, coastlines and more northerly destinations. Lyon Airport offers around 140 direct destinations, with the range subject to change depending on the season and the airlines. 
 

To enjoy some sunshine in spring without having to wait for summer, it’s worth looking towards southern Spain, Portugal, southern Italy, Greece, Malta or Morocco. Seville and Marrakesh are good options at the start of the season, when temperatures are still comfortable for sightseeing. Faro, Palermo, Athens and the Mediterranean islands gradually become more appealing from April or May onwards.

However, it’s important to distinguish between a holiday in the sun and one focused on swimming. A destination may offer lovely, sunny days whilst the sea remains cool, particularly in March and April. Before making your choice, check the average temperatures, rainfall, water temperature and wind conditions. To maximise your chances of warm weather, the Canary Islands and certain destinations in North Africa are often better suited to the very start of spring.
 

To avoid the busiest places, opt for weekday departures, holidays outside school holidays, and lesser-known destinations with good transport links to a major city. Bari, for example, can serve as a base for exploring Apulia, whilst Porto is a good starting point for exploring the Douro Valley. Around Dubrovnik, a holiday can include coastal villages or less-visited islands. In Seville, Lisbon or Rome, staying in a neighbourhood slightly off the beaten track also helps you experience a more local atmosphere.

The time of year matters too. March remains quiet in many regions, but the weather can be changeable. April attracts more visitors during public holidays and school holidays. May often offers a good balance between pleasant weather and moderate crowds. In June, the coastlines become livelier. Booking transport and major attractions in advance allows you to remain flexible once you’re there.
 

For a spring weekend, choose a destination that is accessible, compact and easy to get around without a car. London, Rome, Madrid, Prague, Dublin or Barcelona are all well-suited to a two- to four-day break, provided you tailor your itinerary to the time you actually have available. A central neighbourhood, a straightforward journey from the airport and a few pre-booked visits will help you make the most of your stay.

Ideally, build your itinerary around a key focus: heritage, gastronomy, museums, gardens, city walks or local neighbourhood life. Two or three standout experiences are usually enough. Avoid cramming in too many distant attractions and leave some free time to allow for the weather. To minimise fatigue, also compare flight timetables, journey times and any necessary formalities. A slightly lesser-known city can sometimes offer a smoother getaway than a highly sought-after capital.
 

There isn’t just one best month: the right choice depends on the destination and the type of trip you’re looking for. March is suitable for travellers who want to take advantage of sometimes lower prices and fewer crowds, but the weather remains changeable across much of Europe. April is appealing for its blossoming flowers and longer days, though crowds can be particularly high during school holidays and public holidays.

May is often the most balanced month for exploring cities, walking and visiting Mediterranean regions before the intense heat sets in. June offers more daylight and summery weather in many destinations, but prices and visitor numbers may start to rise. To help you decide, compare typical weather conditions, the local calendar, school holidays and seasonal activities. A destination that’s ideal in May isn’t necessarily the best choice at the end of March.
 

A spring suitcase should allow you to adapt to a range of temperatures throughout the day. The most effective approach is to layer your clothes: a breathable top, a light jumper, a windproof jacket and a compact waterproof jacket. Add a pair of comfortable trousers, shoes you’ve already worn and which are suitable for walking, as well as something to protect you from the sun. A small scarf can come in handy on the plane, in the evening or when visiting religious sites.

Check the forecast a few days before you set off, without relying solely on the maximum temperature. The wind chill, wind, rain and the difference between morning and afternoon temperatures are just as important. Depending on your destination, pack sun cream, an empty water bottle to fill after security checks, and a small bag for excursions. Finally, a coordinated and lightweight wardrobe makes travelling easier when your trip lasts only a few days.
 

Start by deciding what sort of experience you’re looking for. A city is ideal for short breaks, cultural visits and days when the weather might be changeable. The seaside is better suited to a desire for sunshine, coastal walks and a leisurely pace, even if swimming isn’t always guaranteed. The countryside is particularly appealing in spring thanks to the blossoms, waterfalls and temperatures ideal for hiking.

The length of your stay will then help you decide. For two or three days, a compact city minimises travel time. For a week, a coastal region or an island allows you to alternate between sightseeing and relaxation. Finally, check the local seasonal conditions: some mountain trails may still be snow-covered, whilst coastal tourist services may be operating at a slower pace at the start of the season. The best choice combines reasonable weather, available activities and a pace that suits your expectations.
 

For school holidays, long weekends and major events, it’s best to compare options as soon as the dates are known. Flights with convenient times and well-located accommodation are often the first to become less available. If your dates are flexible, compare several departure and return dates: a one-day difference can affect the price, but it can also simplify your journey and help you avoid peak periods.

Before booking, check the change policy, included luggage allowances, actual arrival times and the cost of transport to your accommodation. Also bear in mind the journey to the airport. Lyon Airport lists several transport options, including bus, train, car, carpooling, taxi and shuttle bus. If you’re travelling by car, comparing car parks in advance will help you choose an option that suits the length of your stay.