Spring 2025: 10 European city breaks to book now
What is it about spring that sparks that sense of wanderlust? The days are getting longer, the chill is fading, and the landscape is waking from winter lethargy. It’s the perfect time to book a city break, whether you’re after an adventure-packed weekend, a cultural deep dive, or a chance to unwind with some delicious food.
With our great value direct flights from Dublin and Cork, you’ll be exploring some of Europe’s most exciting cities in no time- all with the convenience and outstanding service that Aer Lingus is known for. Ready for your fresh start? Here are ten incredible city break ideas to inspire you this spring.
1. Lisbon: sunshine and seafood by the Atlantic
Lisbon in spring is a dream… mild temperatures, golden light and fewer crowds than in peak summer months. Explore the steep, winding streets of Alfama, where the notes of traditional Fado music drift through the air, soak up the café culture in Bairro Alto, brunch at Cafe Janis and take a tram to Belém for a taste of the original pastel de nata (custard tart). Hidden gem? LX Factory—a former industrial complex turned creative hub, filled with bookshops, galleries and rooftop cocktails. Book your flight from Dublin to Lisbon.
Date to remember: EuroPride 2025, June 14–22. A major LGBTQ+ celebration with parades, concerts, and cultural activities; this year the event is destined for Lisbon.
A distinctive yellow Remodelado tram in Lisbon, Portugal
2. Seville: orange blossom and flamenco rhythms
Andalucia’s capital is one of Europe’s most charming spring escapes, with orange trees in full bloom and a warm (but not sweltering) climate. Wander the spectacular Alcázar, a breathtaking Moorish palace that feels like stepping into a different era, catch a flamenco show in a tucked-away tablao, and sample some tapas in the lively Santa Cruz district. Hidden gem? The Metropol Parasol, a futuristic wooden structure offering unbeatable panoramic views over the city. Book your flight from Dublin to Seville.
Date to remember: Feria de Abril, May 6–11 2025. A lively festival featuring flamenco, food (think fried fish, olives, paella) and Andalusian traditions.
The Plaza de España, Seville, Spain
3. Rome: history, gelato and a touch of la dolce vita
Rome is a city best explored on foot; aim for spring dates before the summer heat sets in. Wander through the ancient ruins of the Forum, imagining the voices of orators and the bustle of ancient Rome, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and feast on cacio e pepe in Trastevere. Hidden gem? The Quartiere Coppedè—a fairytale-like neighbourhood filled with whimsical architecture; it makes for a peaceful escape from the tourist hotspots. Book your flight from Dublin or Cork to Rome (Cork to Rome route resumes March 14).
Date to remember: Rome Marathon, March 16, 2025. A unique way to experience the city’s historic sights while running through its streets. Even if you’re not running, it’s an exciting time to be there.
Old Town, Rome
4. Valletta: history, sunshine and Mediterranean charm
Malta’s capital, Valletta, is a perfect spring getaway with sun-drenched streets, historic sites and stunning sea views. Explore the magnificent St. John’s Co-Cathedral, where Caravaggio’s masterpieces add a dramatic touch to the ornate interiors, stroll through the Upper Barrakka Gardens, and take a ferry across to the Three Cities for a different perspective on Malta’s rich history. Hidden gem? Is-Suq tal-Belt—a beautifully restored food market offering a fantastic mix of Maltese and international cuisine. Book your flight from Dublin to Malta.
Date to remember: Malta International Fireworks Festival, late April. Stunning firework displays over the Grand Harbour.
Malta’s Grand Harbour, also known as the Port of Marsa
5. Amsterdam: canals, tulips and laid-back charm
Spring in Amsterdam means tulip season, and there’s no better time to visit this vibrant, canal-lined city. Cycle like a local, stopping by a canalside café for a classic Dutch apple pie, explore the Jordaan’s boutique shops, and take a boat tour for the best views of the city. Hidden gem? The Electric Ladyland Museum—the world’s first museum dedicated to fluorescent art, tucked away in a small basement near the Anne Frank House. Book your flight from Dublin to Amsterdam today.
Date to remember: King’s Day, April 26, 2025. A nationwide street party celebrating the Dutch king’s birthday with music, markets, and festivities.
Dutch Houses along the canal, Amsterdam, Netherlands
6. Bilbao: pintxos, modern art, and Basque charm
Bilbao is an excellent destination for your next spring city break, blending striking architecture with an outstanding food scene. Visit the iconic Guggenheim Museum, where cutting-edge contemporary art meets architectural brilliance, explore the historic Casco Viejo quarter, and sample Basque pintxos in a lively local bar. For more insight into Spain’s delicious food traditions, read our recent Hub feature.
Hidden gem? The Artxanda Funicular—a short ride up the hill reveals stunning panoramic views over the city. Book your flight from Dublin or Cork to Amsterdam.
Date to remember: Bilbao BBK Live, July 10–12, 2025. A renowned music festival featuring international artists.
Guggenheim Museum building in Bilbao, Spain
7. Lyon: gastronomy, riverside vibes and culture
Lyon is a paradise for food lovers, with its world-renowned bouchons (traditional restaurants) serving up hearty Lyonnaise cuisine. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, where narrow streets open into charming squares filled with vibrant cafés, take a riverside stroll along the Rhône, and explore the striking contemporary architecture of the Confluence district. Hidden gem? The traboules—secret passageways or shortcuts hidden throughout the Old Town that offer a glimpse into the city’s Renaissance history. Book your flight from Dublin or Cork to Lyon.
Date to remember: Nuits Sonores, May 28–June 1, 2025. A cutting-edge electronic music festival taking over the city’s urban spaces.
Lyon, France
8. Berlin: creativity, history and vibrant nightlife
Berlin is a city of contrasts, where history meets edgy modernity. See the Brandenburg Gate, a symbol of Germany’s past and present, explore the East Side Gallery, and dive into the city’s thriving art and music scene. Hidden gem? Teufelsberg—an abandoned Cold War-era listening station turned street art haven with incredible views over the city. Book your flight from Dublin to Berlin.
Date to remember: Gallery Weekend Berlin, May 2–4, 2025. A showcase of contemporary art in galleries across the city.
Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate
9. Prague: fairytale streets and Bohemian beauty
Prague in spring is magical, with its pastel-coloured buildings, cobbled lanes, and lively beer gardens coming back to life after winter. Stroll across the Charles Bridge, pausing to admire the centuries-old statues and street musicians, visit Prague Castle and sip a cold Czech pilsner in one of the city’s parks. Hidden gem? The Wallenstein Garden—a stunning Baroque garden hidden behind the palace, complete with freely roaming peacocks. Book your flight from Dublin to Prague.
Date to remember: Prague Spring Debut, May 28, 2025. One of the most highly anticipated festival concerts, which spotlights the debut performance of a young up and coming conductor.
Old Town Square, Prague, Czech Republic
10. Nice: French Riviera glamour
For a taste of the Mediterranean, Nice is the perfect springtime city break. Stroll along the Prom (or Promenade des Anglais), letting the sea breeze and Riviera sunshine work their magic, explore the old town’s markets or take a day trip to nearby villages like Èze or Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Hidden gem? The rooftop garden at the Musée Masséna—a quiet, beautiful spot to escape the crowds and soak up some Riviera sunshine. Book your flight from Dublin to Nice.
Date to remember: La Fête des Mai, May 1, 2025. The start of spring is celebrated in May with a grand celebration in the Jardin des Arènes de Cimiez.
Cannes, France
Time to make your escape
There’s no better way to shake off winter than with a city break filled with new sights, great food and a few unexpected adventures. Whether it’s wandering Lisbon’s sunlit streets or cycling through the tulip fields of Amsterdam, your next trip is just a flight away. So why wait? Book now and make spring 2025 truly memorable.
