Spring is one of the best times of year to travel, and Easter offers a golden opportunity for a spontaneous escape. Whether you’re craving sunshine, culture, or a cosy UK staycation, the Easter break is long enough to feel like a proper getaway—without the price tag or planning that comes with summer holidays. Best of all, you can still find incredible destinations to visit even if you’ve left it late to book. Here are some of the top last-minute Easter destinations worth considering this spring.
Why travel at Easter?
The Easter holiday tends to fall at just the right moment—after the long British winter and before the tourist crush of summer. It’s a time when flowers bloom, cities start to come alive again, and temperatures across Europe become far more inviting. For families, the school break makes it practical; for couples or solo travellers, it’s a great excuse for an early-spring adventure. Booking late can even be a benefit, with more flexible options and some appealing deals to be found.
1. Seville, Spain – For sunshine and Semana Santa
Few places celebrate Easter quite like Seville. The Andalusian capital is famous for its dramatic Semana Santa processions, where centuries-old religious brotherhoods parade through the streets in traditional dress, accompanied by music and candlelight. Even if you’re not religious, the spectacle is unforgettable and gives a fascinating insight into Spanish culture.
Aside from the Easter festivities, Seville delivers sunshine, tapas, and stunning architecture. It’s compact enough to explore on foot, with surprises around every corner—from the orange tree-lined courtyards of the Alcázar to flamenco performances tucked away in old town taverns.
2. Lisbon, Portugal – Budget-friendly charm
Portugal’s capital is an excellent choice for a last-minute city break. Warm without being sweltering, Lisbon in April is ideal for wandering its colourful neighbourhoods, hopping on vintage trams, or enjoying fresh seafood by the water.
For travellers booking close to the date, the city tends to have a wider range of accommodation options than other European hotspots. Some Easter-time destinations are listed on Voyage Privé, with hand-picked stays that can make even a spontaneous trip feel luxurious.
Lisbon is also a great base if you fancy exploring nearby spots like Sintra or the beaches of Cascais—perfect for mixing culture with a bit of coastal relaxation.
3. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Spring in bloom
If you’ve never seen the Netherlands during tulip season, Easter is a perfect excuse to go. Just outside Amsterdam lies Keukenhof, one of the world’s largest flower gardens, where millions of tulips and daffodils create a riot of colour through April. It’s postcard-perfect, and absolutely worth a visit.
The city itself has a relaxed, almost festive atmosphere at this time of year. You can rent a bike and explore the canals, browse Easter markets, or simply enjoy a quiet coffee in one of the many cosy cafés. Amsterdam’s manageable size also makes it ideal for a short break, even if you’re booking at the last minute.
Useful resource: Keukenhof official website – plan your visit to the gardens during tulip season.
4. Edinburgh, Scotland – A staycation with soul
If you’d prefer to stay a little closer to home, Edinburgh is a brilliant last-minute pick. The Scottish capital offers history, charm, and a great atmosphere during Easter. Spring brings blooming cherry trees to the Meadows, and the Royal Mile is lively with street performers and markets.
It’s also a good time to visit the Highlands if you’re looking to escape the city—many small group tours run over the Easter weekend, and the landscape starts to emerge from winter’s grip.
Booking late doesn’t necessarily mean paying more here either—Edinburgh often has deals on short-term rentals or boutique B&Bs, especially just outside the city centre.
5. Athens, Greece – Easter traditions and ancient wonders
For something a little different, consider Athens. Greek Orthodox Easter typically falls around the same time as Western Easter and is celebrated with genuine warmth and tradition. You’ll find midnight church services, candlelit processions, and a feast of roast lamb on Easter Sunday.
Temperatures in April are pleasantly mild—perfect for exploring the Acropolis, dining outdoors in Plaka, or enjoying views from Mount Lycabettus. And because it’s still shoulder season, there’s a good chance you’ll find reasonable rates even if you’re booking on short notice.
Tips for booking a last-minute Easter break
When it comes to planning a last-minute getaway, flexibility is your best friend. If you can travel mid-week rather than at the weekend, or are open to different airport departures, you’ll have a better chance of snagging a good deal.
Also, consider destinations that offer both city and nature—places where you can switch gears without needing to move around too much. Finally, don’t be afraid to explore curated travel sites that specialise in last-minute deals. Some Easter-time destinations are listed on Voyage Privé, which offers luxury holidays at reduced prices for spontaneous travellers.
Final thoughts
You don’t need months of planning to enjoy a memorable Easter break. Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Seville, wandering through tulips in Amsterdam, or experiencing ancient traditions in Athens, there’s no shortage of incredible places to explore—no matter how late you’ve left it. Sometimes, the best trips are the ones you didn’t overthink.
