Beautiful city breaks for the spring
After a long winter of hibernation indoors we are all longing to feast our eyes on something new. We picked the best cities in Europe to enjoy the beauty of spring, mild days, and the awakening of nature.
Milan
Spring in Milan starts early, and it is a good idea to combine time outdoors with some of the cultural wonders of the city. Start your cultural journey at the historic Sforza Castle, which houses several museums, including art collections and historical artefacts. After exploring the castle, step into the vast Sempione Park just outside. Enjoy a leisurely walk through beautifully landscaped gardens, have a picnic or just relax by the pond.
If riding a bike is your thing, rent one and explore Milan's Navigli district, known for its picturesque canals and trendy atmosphere. Make sure you visit the Vicolo dei Lavandai, a historical area that used to house the city’s laundry houses. Now the quarter is a cute destination with many canal-side cafes and restaurants.
You could also head to Parco Nord, Milan's largest park, for a refreshing outdoor escape. The park offers green spaces, walking trails and recreational areas. Adjacent to the park is Hangar Bicocca, a contemporary art space. Explore the outdoor installations and sculptures that seamlessly integrate art with the surrounding environment.
Finnair operates direct flights from Helsinki to Milan Malpensa Airport every day. During the summer season, you can also fly to Milan Linate Airport multiple times a week. Book your flights now!
Nice
Before the heat of the summer lands on Nice, you should make the most of the more intense outdoors activities. A great option is a hike up the Colline du Château to enjoy the panoramic views of Nice. In spring, the hill comes alive with colourful flowers in bloom. If the weather is warm enough, it's a perfect spot for a picnic with a view.
Outside the city Mont Boron's lush forest trails offer breathtaking views of the French Riviera. There is a loop trail of around five kilometres, that is moderately challenging. Some parts of the hike offer very beautiful vistas of both Nice and Villefranche-sur-Mer.
If you would rather do something less sporty, visit Cimiez Monastery Gardens. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds and visit the adjacent Musée Matisse for both the art and the atmospheric building.
Add a visit to Monaco or Cannes to your itinerary for an extra treat. Book your spring city break now!
Ljubljana
Spring is the perfect time to visit Ljubljana’s Botanical Garden when the flowering plants offer a riot of colour. The garden is almost 2.5 hectares and showcases diverse, some rare, plant species, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
If you are a fan of treasure hunting, visit the flea market at Breg, a picturesque area along the Ljubljanica River. The market typically opens on weekends and offers a wide range of vintage objects, antiques and handmade crafts. Local food vendors often set up stalls too offering snacks and refreshments.
For a completely different vibe, discover the alternative side of Ljubljana at Metelkova Mesto. This autonomous social and cultural center, established in the early 1990s in a former military barracks complex, hosts art exhibitions, concerts and outdoor events. The area is also known for its fabulous street art.
Finnair flies direct from Helsinki to Ljubljana April–October 2025. Search for the flights now!
Faro
Faro is known for being the capital of Portugal's Algarve region and generally offers mild temperatures ideal for a spring getaway. It boasts a historic old town, nearby beaches, and proximity to other picturesque towns along the Algarve coast. It’s a popular destination for travellers seeking a mix of culture, history, and seaside relaxation.
Explore the cobbled streets, historic buildings, and the old town walls in Cidade Velha and visit the Faro Cathedral for panoramic views. Or enjoy the atmosphere of the Faro marina, which is lined with cafes and restaurants offering local cuisine.
The city itself doesn't have beaches, but there are beautiful stretches of sandy beaches close by, such as Praia de Faro, which can be reached by a short bus or boat trip. Or head to the area of the Ria Formosa which covers the sandy beaches, as far as the eye can see! You can even use Faro as a base to explore other towns in the Algarve like Tavira, Olhão, or even take a trip to neighbouring Spain.
Finnair flies directly from Helsinki to Faro twice a week from October 2024 onwards. Book flights to a city that combines history, culture and stunning landscapes!
Alicante
Alicante is known for having a warm Mediterranean climate and a variety of attractions, including beaches, historical sites and a vibrant nightlife, which many visitors find appealing for a spring city break.
Wander through the narrow streets, enjoy the coloured houses, and discover the history and culture of Alicante in the Old Town or visit the Castle of Santa Bárbara which offers panoramic views of the city and the coastline.
Postiguet beach is the main beach in Alicante, but there are also other beaches such as San Juan and Albufereta: take a walk along Explanada de España − a beautiful palm-lined promenade, which is paved with 6.5 million marble floor tiles creating a wavy effect. If you feel like exploring, take a boat trip to the Island of Tabarca, known for its marine reserve, snorkelling and pristine beaches.