Spring is the perfect season for a weekend city break or long holiday in Europe. The climate is mild enough to explore at your leisure without sweating profoundly, yet warm enough to sit out and enjoy a coffee or glass of chilled cava in the spring sun. Flora and fauna come alive in the various parklands dotted around the city, creating some colourful and vibrant photo opportunities. All in all, spring is a lovely time to visit Europe, and here are just a few cities that are particularly dazzling during this flourishing season.

1. Barcelona – Not that Barcelona requires spring shades to brighten up its already colourful exterior, but it certainly looks beautiful during the season. Its dormant beaches come alive in March with people strolling along the promenades and sand, and some even daring to dip a toe in the still chilly waters. Wildlife is in full bloom in Barcelona’s Guell Park, and Parc de la Ciutadella, and you can admire over 2,000 types of roses at the Cervantes Rose Garden in the heart of the city. Enjoy a drink on the balcony of your Barcelona apartment, or soak up the rays on the terrace of one of the city’s many cafes and bars. If you’re visiting over Easter, be sure not to miss the Easter parade outside Plaça Sant Agustí that takes place on Good Friday.

2. Paris – Spring is a desirable time in Paris for those travellers looking to capture the city’s iconic landmarks in their most idyllic setting – surrounded by colourful flowers, adding a splash of colour for picture-perfect photographs. Enjoy the spring sunshine cruising down the River Seine admiring some of Paris’ much-loved landmarks, such as Invalides, The Eiffel Tower, and The Louvre. Stroll around Jardin des Tuileries – a spectacular and impeccably maintained garden located in the centre of Paris.

3. Budapest – Already considered one of the most attractive cities in Europe, spring only accentuates Budapest’s existing beauty. Budapest has some exquisite architecture that can be explored on foot, or by meandering down the River Danube on a lunch or dinner cruise. Visit an outdoor thermal spring, in spring, and see if you experience any of the therapeutic and healing capabilities they are believed to have. The tranquil haven of Margaret Island is a fantastic place to visit in fine weather, with calming water fountains and a variety of flower gardens, which are especially impressive during spring. This car-free oasis can be reached from mainland Budapest apartments by crossing over bridges on either end of the island. A horse drawn carriage ride can be a special way to explore the island fully.