Spring into Europe and enjoy what we’ve missed
Now restrictions are easing, it’s time for an urban adventure in the spring sunshine, says
After two years of closures and restrictions, Europe’s museums and galleries have reopened and streets are once again full of life. Fully vaccinated travellers will no longer need a PCR or antigen test to enter many European countries, and restrictions on using the Green Pass are also easing, making it much easier to enter restaurants and attractions. These are some of the cities worth checking out for a spring break – Covid requirements vary, so check before you travel.
Paris
Paris is home to many of Europe’s top galleries, and spring is an excellent time to catch new exhibitions. Newly opened at the Musée de l’orangerie, and running until July 11, new show Impressionist Decorations: Tracing The Roots of Monet’s Water Lilies, features work by Cézanne, Degas and Monet. Combine a trip to the gallery with a stroll along the Seine, and boulevards filled with trees in full blossom.
How: Kirker Holidays (020 7593 2288; kirkerholidays.com) offers a threenight B&B stay at the Pavillon de la Reine from £858pp (two sharing), including a return on the Eurostar and a two-day Museum Pass. Offer valid until May 15.
Rome
Wander along ancient streets, take rest breaks at famous fountains and gaze up at dramatic ruins such as the Colosseum and the Forum. To savour every detail – including hidden spots that might easily be missed – join an escorted tour. Stroll along the Via della Conciliazione to the Vatican City to explore the Sistine Chapel and take in Michelangelo’s Pietà at St Peter’s Basilica, or stop for a gelato at the Spanish Steps. The trip also includes walks further afield in the water gardens of Villa d’este and by the sea at Ostia Antica.
How: Ramblers Holidays (01707 331 133; ramblersholidays.co.uk) offers a seven-night escorted Roman Holiday tour from £1,579pp including flights, breakfasts and five dinners. Departs September 24 and October 29.
Copenhagen
Looped by 382km of bike trails and bridges, the Danish capital is easy to explore on two wheels. In July, the Tour de France will start in these streets, but since 2022 has been declared Year Of The Bike, there’s good reason to visit much sooner. Of all the bike tours on offer, an itinerary with Green Bikes is one of the most interesting. Led by experts, a threehour tour visits projects designed to help Copenhagen become the first carbon neutral capital by 2025. From €34; greenbiketours.org/ copenhagen_public.
How: British Airways Holidays (britishairways.com) offers a twonight B&B stay at the Tivoli Hotel, including flights from London, from £228. Based on a May departure.
Amsterdam
Following two years of closure, the Keukenhof tulip and flower park is finally open again. Walk around the Garden of Europe in Lisse, a 35-minute drive from Amsterdam, and return via the Zomerbloemenpluktuin, where it’s possible to pick your own blooms along the Amstel River. On the third Sunday of the month enjoy the colourful stalls of Museum Market. How: Located on the picturesque Keizersgracht canal in the heart of the Nine Streets shopping area, 17th-century hotel The Dylan has 40 rooms and suites over two canalside buildings. Doubles from €350 (£295) per night, including breakf ast; dylanamsterdam.com. Flights from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen.