Top 5 places to visit around the world in spring
From pink-hued cherry blossoms to perfect strolling weather, these destinations around the world make for a memorable springtime getaway.
By Alina Dizik | January 16, 2025
Alina Dizik
Alina Dizik is a veteran lifestyle journalist, covering travel, real estate, family, work trends, and dining. Her work appears in The Wall Street Journal, BBC, The Cut, The Guardian, and other top publications. She lives in Chicago and has spent time living in New York, Europe, and the Middle East. She spends more than two months each year traveling internationally with her husband and two school-age children. She has visited more than 50 countries.
Stunning sunsets, perfect temperatures, and an array of colorful blooms are just some of the reasons to travel come spring. From exploring Japan’s urban jungle to cruising along a city canal, or savoring flavors of the Middle East, consider these destinations for your next springtime adventure.
Paris
Without the summertime crowds, the City of Light sparkles each spring. For a quintessential Parisian getaway, stay at Hotel Norman Paris, an SLH Hotel. Tucked away on a quiet street near the Arc de Triomphe, the boutique property with jazzy 1960s Parisian decor is conveniently positioned for strolls along the iconic Champs Élysée. Other must-see landmarks are also nearby and with the beautiful spring weather on your side, it’s easy to take in the city on foot or via a sightseeing cruise along the Seine River. After a day of exploring, relax and indulge in French and Thai flavors at the hotel’s chic restaurant, Thiou. Traveling for a special occasion? Consider booking one of the guest rooms that includes a balcony with Eiffel Tower views.
Tokyo
Exploring Japan’s capital is unforgettable at any time of the year, but especially in spring when perfectly pink cherry blossoms fill the city. Stay at Hilton Tokyo in Shinjuku, the city’s entertainment district, which offers easy access to top sights. Beat jet lag with a trip to the hotel's heated indoor pool before dining at Marble Lounge, the sleek all-day restaurant offering an extensive buffet with both Japanese and Western dishes. Be sure to plan a visit to nearby Meiji Jingu, a Shinto shrine surrounded by a lush forest while exploring the city. To make the most of a springtime visit, check with the concierge for recommendations on the best flower-filled photo ops.
Amsterdam
Bikeable streets, tulips in full bloom, and a maze of 17th-century canals make this Dutch city especially charming come spring. For a regal experience, stay at Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam, which is made up of six meticulously restored palaces facing the UNESCO-protected Herengracht Canal. The gardens have been joined together to make for a spectacular outdoor space filled with tulips during the season. Enhance your stay with a personalized treatment at the hotel’s Guerlain Spa, which also features an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room. Or consider snagging a reservation at Spectrum, the hotel’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant. With local favorites like herring and Dutch shrimp, the seven-course tasting menu is perfect for an indulgent and memorable dining experience.
Cancun, Mexico
The region’s crystal-clear Caribbean waters are a draw year around, but spring is when Cancun truly comes alive. Luckily, staying at Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort offers the perfect mix of fun, sun, and wellness. After visiting Mayan ruins or dancing the night away in Cancun’s vibrant Party Zone, guests can relax with access to the resort’s private beach and two pools, while active travelers can try a mix of group fitness classes or work out at their own pace at the 24-hour gym. When the sun sets, nightly entertainment, including fire shows and live music, keep the entire family engaged. For an unforgettable culinary experience, book ahead at Maxal, one of the 12 on-site dining options, which will take you on a flavorful journey with traditional dishes from nearly every region of Mexico.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The UAE’s most populous city is a global hot spot for a reason: Its focus on innovation brings a constant mix of expats and visitors to its shores. Consider Hampton by Hilton Dubai Al Seef as your home base in the Emirates. The modern hotel sits along Dubai Creek, a busy waterway known for its vibrant souk and traditional wooden boats that ferry people across. After indulging in the hotel’s complimentary breakfast at Cu restaurant, head to nearby attractions like the Burj Khalifa. The 163-floor skyscraper is the tallest building in the world and offers panoramic views from viewing platforms on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors. Once you’ve had your fill of exploring, beat the desert heat with a dip in your hotel’s rooftop pool.
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