Are you trying to find the best place to celebrate Easter in Europe? There is something for everyone, from magnificent scenery and fascinating cities to customs and traditional celebrations.
Whether you’re thinking of an exciting family holiday or a romantic retreat, Easter in Europe is the best way to visit some of the continent’s most famous locations. This blog will discuss the best locations in Europe to visit on Easter 2024, from the breathtaking views of Limone Sul Garda to the magnificent architecture of Barcelona. So, take your camera and prepare for a journey you won’t soon forget with Good Vibes Only!
Easter’s Best in Spain’s Diverse Destinations
Embarking to Spain for Easter means unlocking a treasure trove of vibrant traditions and cultural celebrations. Amidst the lively processions and ancient customs, you can find budget holidays that ensure you experience the richness of Spain without breaking the bank. The allure of cheap holidays becomes even more enticing when paired, making your Easter in Spain an affordable and unforgettable adventure.
Valencia, Spain: A Symphony of Festivities
Easter in Valencia, well-known for its brilliant and bright celebrations, is a time for extreme happiness. A significant occasion during this period is Semana Santa Marinera, often known as the Maritime Holy Week. This distinctive event blends Valencia’s marine culture with religious devotion.
Bright processions in the Poblats Marítims district, which includes the harborside neighbourhoods of Grau, El Cabanyal, and Canyamelar, occur in the week preceding Easter Sunday. As an added benefit, you can wander before or after the parade along Valencia’s beaches.
The processions, which feature musical groups and exquisite floral arrangements, are a sensory extravaganza. The traditional robes and pointed caps are the main attraction for more visitors.
In contrast to other cultures where these clothes are associated with negativity, in Spain, they are the traditional garb of the Brotherhood and have no negative connotations.
The major processions are Good Friday, Maundy Thursday, Palm Sunday, and Easter Sunday. Nonetheless, the Good Friday event is the most spectacular and features the sharpest headwear.
Mona de Pascua, Barcelona, Spain: A Cultural Extravaganza
When you think about Easter in Spain, the south of Spain may come to mind. But an Easter holiday in Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is equally worthwhile. There are many intriguing customs to discover here and gorgeous springtime weather that begs for strolls along the beach.
Catalonia’s most important Easter custom is the Mona de Pascua, a vibrant Easter cake. Typically, chocolate and other sweets are used to embellish this delicious cake colourfully.
Although the cake used to be a straightforward dry cake with real eggs, today’s cooks are only limited by their imagination. There are lots of different tastes, themes, and décor.
Almost anything is likely available, from classic Easter designs like bunnies or chicks to contemporary toys, comic book characters, or well-known cartoon characters.
Stroll through Barcelona’s many bakeries, pastry stores, and supermarkets to see the various inventive cakes. Of course, you have to try them as well. After selecting your fave, don’t forget to have fun with it. In Catalonia, the godfather usually serves the Mona de Pascua. Of course, indulging yourself in a delicious Spanish Easter dessert is acceptable.
Malaga, Spain: Coastal Charms and Celebrations
One of the numerous reasons to visit Malaga is to participate in its customs, such as Easter. Semana Santa, or Holy Week, is observed from Palm Sunday, the sixth Sunday of Lent, until Easter Day, or Resurrection Sunday. It is customarily observed during the first week of April.
During this time, crowds of Malaga inhabitants and visitors throng the city’s streets to witness the magnificent religious processions that occur day and night.
Irrespective of your religious beliefs, this is an event not to be missed. A great deal of emotion is invested in it, from those carrying enormous religious floats to those accompanying the parade to the finish line.
Easter is not just about the processions; food also plays a crucial role. By religious customs, fish and vegetable dishes are the most popular choices. There are also some delectable Easter sweets and desserts!
When visiting Malaga during Easter, you must taste the delectable torrijas, the Spanish equivalent of French toast.
Make sure not to miss this amazing event, which is a great option for families and couples, by booking accommodations in the centre of Malaga during Easter.
Seville, Spain: Flamenco Rhythms and Tradition
In southern Spain, Seville has the largest Easter festival in the nation, making it one of the most unusual locations to celebrate the holiday in Europe. During Easter Week, several brotherhoods parade through the streets with enormous floats, orchestras playing sad tunes, and participants donning pointed hats and capes.
Not only are there daytime processions, but you ought to attend one or more of the evening ones. In an entirely different atmosphere, the kids will use the giant candles to pour candle wax onto tiny silver foil balls that they have prepared to create the largest possible ball of wax.
To make it bigger and bigger, they save it year after year.
One day in Seville during Holy Week just isn’t long enough. Because the processions will block all foot movement in the city, you won’t be able to see the key sights.
Additionally, you may discover that several attractions are closed or have limited hours. Also, as hotels tend to fill up rapidly during Easter, making early reservations is advisable. Make sure you book accommodation at a fantastic central hotel.
Salamanca: Timeless Elegance and Easter Spirit
Salamanca is sometimes called the Golden City or La Dorada in Spanish. In the sunlight, the city seems to glitter like gold.
Beautiful examples of Renaissance, Baroque, Ultra Baroque, Gothic, Moorish, and Romanesque architecture can be seen at Salamanca, a World Heritage Site. Salamanca has two churches, and the Plaza Mayor is regarded as the most magnificent square in Spain. Salamanca boasts some of the most exquisite cathedrals in all of Europe!
Salamanca, known as the “Golden City,” is stunning all year long, but Semana Santa is when it shines.
One of the greatest locations in Spain to spend Easter is Salamanca. One of Spain’s biggest and oldest Holy Week parades occurs in Salamanca.
In Salamanca, processions honouring Semana Santa have been a tradition since the thirteenth century. Ten thousand penitents participate in the parades overall.
They are members of eighteen Salamanca-based Catholic fraternities. From Palm Sunday Eve to Easter Sunday, there are twenty-four public processions in Salamanca, led by the eighteen fraternities daily.
But Maundy Thursday and Good Friday have the most impressive processions. During processions, penitents wear special garments and face-covering hoods carrying enormous wooden floats with statues of Jesus and the Sorrowful Virgin Mary.
The sculptures are among the best examples of Spanish artistic tradition’s artistic output.
Aside from the Semana Santa processions, Salamanca’s cathedrals are popular tourist destinations. Visiting these well-known sites is one of the top things to do in Salamanca, Spain.
The Best Easter Destinations in Italy
In Italy, Easter is a time to rejoice with loved ones. It’s a season of joy and introspection when festivals and other celebrations blend with customary religious rites.
During Easter celebrations, there are plenty of exciting places to see and experience throughout Italy, from the north to the south. These are a few of the best places to go for an amazing Easter holiday in Italy.
Florence: Art, History, and Easter Delights
The cart explosion is one of Florence‘s most unexpected Easter celebration customs out of all the Italian towns.
After Sunday’s Easter Mass, the Florence archbishop ignited a dove-shaped rocket called la Colombina, or small dove in Italian.
The cart outside the Cathedral, called Brindellone, is connected to the rocket via a wire. There are fireworks inside the cart, and when the dove lands on them, they burst into flames.
This custom, which dates back more than 350 years, marks the start of the cropping season. If the waggon explodes completely, the summer will be fruitful.
Aside from this well-known custom, Florence has a central market with local goods for artisans and foodies. Many of Florence‘s amazing museums are open to celebrate the holidays on this special occasion.
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Limone Sul Garda: Lakeside Serenity
Italy is stunning all year round, but if you happen to be in Europe around Easter, visit Limone Sul Garda, a picturesque old lakeside village.
This undiscovered gem in Italy is the ideal location for a family-friendly, carefree Easter getaway. It is set on a hillside just above Lake Garda.
You can infer from the town’s name that it is well-known for producing lemons!
It’s the best location for exploring Lake Garda because it’s well-connected to ferries, boat taxis, and boat cruises to neighbouring cities.
Everywhere in Lake Garda hosts marketplaces to celebrate Easter. Local vegetables and food items are available, along with traditional goods. The many jugglers and buskers in the town squares entertain the younger crowd.
The Festa di Pasquetta, held at Rocca, Lonato del Garda, is the most prominent event throughout Easter at Lake Garda.
With so many things to choose from, including a botanic treasure hunt where kids may gather for the Stampa e colora con le piante activity, it’s a great day to spend outside with the kids. A masked egg search is also a huge hit with kids of all ages!
The community holds a unique parade at night in honour of Jesus, who gave his life on the cross to atone for our sins. They place candles throughout the town’s streets. A truly moving and unique occurrence occurs when a group of people follow the cross through these lovely streets lit by candles following the church service.
Top Easter vibes in Europe – Portugal
Lisbon: Coastal Beauty and Easter Bliss
Lisbon’s Easter celebrations uniquely blend history, culture, and religion. On Good Friday, many churches in Portugal will welcome tourists and give them a glimpse into the nation’s religious practices.
Several magnificent penitential processions are lit by candlelight and occur after dark during the holy week.
This gives the event great charm and seriousness and creates a memorable experience. About an hour from Lisbon, in Obidos, visitors may witness one of the most famous, and while exploring the city’s narrow streets, they can immerse themselves in the spirit of a Portuguese
Portugal celebrates Good Friday with customary codfish meals. This is a fantastic way to experience some of the best Portuguese and local cuisines.
April’s weather is ideal for sightseeing and participating in the customary celebrations. Viewing Lisbon at its best, now is a great time to stroll about the city! This enchanted moment offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Lagos: Algarve’s Hidden Gem for Easter Retreats
Easter beach season is a great time to visit Lagos, a stunning coastal town. Lagos, renowned for its breathtaking beaches, craggy limestone cliffs, and crystal-clear sea, is situated in the Algarve area of southern Portugal.
The climate is pleasant all year round, with more than 300 sunny days, but as spring arrives around Easter, it’s a good time to visit the beach. Easter is a major celebration in Portugal, particularly in the smaller towns and villages where local parishes maintain customs.
Santa Maria and São Sebastião churches in Lagos host Easter celebrations. Lagos holds a fair honouring regional customs, traditions, cuisine, and crafts throughout Easter week.
One can also witness traditional folklore dancing from the area set to wonderful music at the event. During the Easter season, there is a lot of demand for activities like kayak trips, surf lessons, boat tours to the nearby caverns, and dolphin viewing from Lagos. This is a fantastic time to explore nearby cliffs, trails, and trek.
More European Gems for Your Easter Getaway
Sibiu, Romania: Transylvanian Charm
One of the most fascinating Easter customs in Transylvania, Romania, is Udatul Fetelor. Men used to go to the homes of single women on the second day of Easter and splash water over them in the hopes that they would blossom, look beautiful all year round, smell like spring flowers, and be lucky.
A girl would have a terrible year ahead if she weren’t “watered.” The women had to be given fresh water straight from the fountain. Women needed to be nourished year-round, according to the belief that they are similar to flowers.
After the men are “watered,” the women give them decorated Easter eggs and traditional Romanian sweets like pasca or cozonac.
The custom has evolved, with the females now being “watered” with perfume instead of water. Even though it’s no longer a particularly common ritual, everyone gets “watered,” regardless of the girls’ marital status. For this reason, hosting guests on the second Easter Sunday is customary.
Prague, Czech Republic: A Fairytale Easter
Prague at Easter is quite magical, particularly if you travel with children. Springtime weather invites you outside to participate in customs like egg painting, folk dancing, and whipping, which is becoming increasingly common. Men and boys whip women and girls with willow sticks decorated with ribbons as gifts, good fortune, and fertility.
The whole Old Town Square (Staroměstské náměstí), which is home to the well-known astrological clock, is converted into a vibrant Easter market with food sellers, festive décor, and wooden crafts kiosks.
The sellers sell beautiful crafts, including painted eggs, embroidered fabrics, wooden toys, ornamental flowers, traditional Easter whips, and more.
Don’t miss it when the astrological clock chimes and the Twelve Apostles procession happens every hour between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. Because of its speed, it’s a kid-friendly favourite and a favourite among tourists.
Snack on some market-sourced traditional Czech cuisine after the show.
Savour mulled wine, a classic pilsner, smoked ham with potatoes, and Trdelník, a delectable pastry. It tastes like a cinnamon roll and is made of yeast dough pastry spiralled around a stick and fried over an open flame. The topping is sugar and cinnamon. Just one of these delicious, fresh-off-the-fire morsels would be amazing.
Given how much people enjoy Easter, one could argue that it’s the greatest time of year to visit Prague. Prague need to be at the top of your Easter travel itinerary!
Paris, France: Romantic Escapades
Taking the kids to visit Paris during the Easter break is a beautiful experience.
Families will find much to do throughout the three-day weekend, from Easter concerts and religious events in the city’s lovely churches to chocolate bunnies and candy eggs lining pastry aisles and egg hunts in breathtaking settings.
Why not plan a springtime holiday to Paris with your family if you’re searching for something fun? It promises an amazing experience with breathtaking views, mouthwatering cuisine, and distinctive activities!
Going on an egg hunt with your kids is one of the greatest ways to spend Easter in Paris. Beautiful Parisian neighbourhoods and the city’s most picturesque parks are only two of the many imaginative and entertaining spots holding special Easter egg hunts.
Why not take advantage of the first signs of spring and enjoy a picnic lunch of delicious French fare in one of the city’s lovely parks to make it even more unforgettable?
Alternatively, take a trip on the Seine River and take in some of the world’s most recognisable monuments for a more leisurely pursuit.
Make advance plans, as many stores and eateries are closed Monday after Easter.
There are still plenty of things to do, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy everything Paris offers and build some priceless Easter memories with your loved ones!
Zakopane, Poland: Alpine Magic and Easter Traditions
Nestled deep among the Polish Tatra Mountains is the city of Zakopane. Though it’s frequently referred to as Poland‘s winter capital, it’s a stunning location to explore all year round.
You may stroll between traditional craft shops selling homemade jams and vodka and witness timber-built houses under the shadow of sharp peaks.
The Tatra National Park hiking season traditionally begins around Easter. As the crocuses bloom in full between the lush meadows of Chochołowska Valley, it starts with a flurry.
After exploring the trails, make sure to cosy up in a classic Polish Highlander pub, where you can have the seasonal smoked sheep’s cheese, known as open, accompanied by a generous portion of cranberry sauce.
Easter in Dublin: Irish Charm and Celebrations
A wonderful city to visit over the Easter break is Dublin. There’s more chocolate in the shops because of all the Easter Eggs, large events like the Easter search at Malahide Castle, and the weather is gradually improving.
Many of the Easter celebrations in Dublin begin as April 1 draws near.
The egg hunts are held at Newbridge Farm and Malahide Castle from April 9 through April 24. On Easter Sunday, Airfield Estate throws an extravagant Easter celebration. Children can enjoy an Easter path in the Irish EPIC Museum complex. The list is endless.
Since Ireland is historically a mainly Catholic nation, it stands to reason that most practising Catholics would attend Mass on Easter Sunday and other significant occasions during the festival.
Taking a walking tour is the best way to discover Dublin’s true nature. Take the kids with you to explore the history of the city and its rise to become one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations.
Plan Your Easter in Europe
Tips and Tricks for a Memorable Journey
The Art of Booking Low Cost Holidays
In the quest for affordable travel, mastering the art of booking budget holidays is crucial. Low Cost Vibes offers promotional deals, ensuring your dream Easter holiday remains within reach. Forget the stress of expensive bookings; with our curated options, you can book with confidence and pay with ease.
Chasing Easter Bunnies in Magical Destinations
As you plan your Easter escapade, envision yourself in the heart of enchanting destinations. Imagine chasing Easter bunnies through the tulip fields in Amsterdam or savouring chocolate delights in the charming streets of Brussels. In 2024, Europe is ready to give you a special holiday with experiences that will stay in your memories for a long time.
Europe in 2024 promises a budget-friendly and culturally rich Easter and an extensive exploration of charming destinations, post-Easter events, and delightful culinary experiences. With Low Cost Vibes, confidence in booking, and easy payment options, your Easter holiday across these remarkable European destinations is bound to be an extraordinary and memorable journey.
Book confidently, savour the delights of Europe, and let this Easter be an enchanting celebration of tradition, culture, and joy!
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