After months of cold, grey days, it’s natural to crave warmth and sunshine in April.
Spring in the UK, however, is far from predictable. While sunny skies and blooming flowers are possible, you’re just as likely to be met with rain and chilly gusts.
With the Easter holidays in full swing, it’s no surprise that April is a popular time for families to pack their bags and head off in search of better weather. But if you’re ready to swap grey skies for golden, where can you find sunshine, balmy temperatures, and inviting waters?
Metro‘s travel insiders have rounded up 17 places where you’re guaranteed sunshine this April.
April's best sunny escapes
Where is hot in April? European and short-haul destinations
Costa del Sol, Spain
Temperature: 17°C (up to 22°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Three hours
This beautiful stretch of coastline in Andalusia is a fantastic choice for April, when sunshine really starts to ramp up with perfect weather to relax by the beach.
Some of the top destinations include Malaga, a lively city with budget-friendly restaurants, and Marbella, known for its luxurious yachts and blinged-out boutiques.
But for those with more time and access to a car, there’s much more to discover inland.
Head to Granada to visit the breathtaking Alhambra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or explore Estepona, an underrated holiday spot, with a palm-lined promenade, traditional Spanish tapas bars and picturesque paths.
Make sure to visit Seville, where flamenco, Gothic architecture, and a lively tapas scene come together; as well as the coastal gem of Cádiz with rich history and beautiful beaches.
Lanzarote, The Canary Islands
Temperature: 20°C (up to 24°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: Four hours, 10 minutes
Though officially part of Spain, Lanzarote can reach pleasant temperatures all year round due to its geographical position off the coast of Africa (not too far from Morocco).
This Canary Island has plenty of resort areas you can stay in to soak up all that warmth, including Playa del Carmen, Costa Teguise, and Playa Blanca – all with reasonable hotels and beautiful beaches.
Beyond the typical resorts, Lanzarote is beloved for its otherworldly volcanic landscapes – mostly famously, Timanfaya National Park, and the lava tube Cueva de Los Verdes.
If you like a bit of relaxation and a hint of adventure on holiday, you can get the best of both worlds here.
Rhodes, Greece
Temperature: 16°C (up to 22°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: Four hours, 5 minutes
Greece is an obvious choice for sunny spring getaways, and April’s moderate weather makes it perfect for exploring.
Rhodes offers the rich history and heritage of Athens alongside the stunning beaches of Santorini – without the crowds.
Stroll through the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cobblestone streets, ancient walls, and the impressive Palace of the Grand Master transport you to centuries gone by.
Don’t forget to climb the Clock Tower for sweeping views over the city while you’re there.
If basking in the sun is more your style, you’ll love the golden sands of Tsambika Beach or the crystal-clear waters of Anthony Quinn Bay – perfect for a relaxing swim or a spot of snorkelling.
For history lovers, the Acropolis of Lindos is a must-see. Wander through the whitewashed village below before climbing to the top for incredible views of the coastline.
Sorrento and Amalfi Coast, Italy
Temperature: 18°C
Sunshine hours: Seven hours
Flight time: Two hours, 35 minutes
Stunning Sorrento (near Naples and Pompeii) and the Amalfi Coast go hand in hand. They’re only an hour or so apart by car. And what a drive it is. A true ‘bucket list’ route with unforgettable views of the Mediterranean.
Start in Sorrento; stroll through charming piazzas, sip on local limoncello, and learn how to cook some traditional Italian food.
From there, hop in the car and wind your way along the Amalfi Coast. Perhaps the best-known stop along the way is the town of Positano – loved by photographers the world over for spectacular views of colourful houses, speckled across the cliffs.
Temperatures in April climb near 20ºC, so it’s not the hottest destination in April by any stretch – though hopefully warmer than the UK.
It’s also the perfect time for hiking — trails to try include the famous Path of the Gods or nearby Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius.
With fewer crowds and cooler weather, you’ll have all the space and time you need to soak up the beauty of the Amalfi Coast.
The Algarve, Portugal
Temperature: 17°C (up to 20°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Two hours, 55 minutes
There’s so much to do in Portugal, but we suggest starting your adventure in the Algarve, the southern region famous for its golden beaches, sunny skies, and mouthwatering seafood paired with local wine.
Base yourself in Albufeira, a lively beach town with a good mix of relaxation and nightlife.
Or, take a trip to Faro and Lagos. Don’t miss Praia do Camilo in Lagos – a picture-perfect beach at the bottom of 200 wooden steps, well worth the climb back up.
If you’re after something a little more traditional, Tavira’s charming cobbled streets and old-world vibe are not to be missed.
Alternatively, visit the underrated Sagres at the southwestern tip of the Algarve. Known as ‘the end of the world,’ this peaceful village boasts dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean views that will take your breath away.
For a change of pace, make your way to Madeira, the ‘Hawaii of Europe,’ with everything from hiking trails to relaxing resorts.
Antalya, Turkey
Temperature: 17°C (up to 22°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Four hours, 15 minutes
Despite being one of Turkey’s most populous cities, you don’t hear much about Antalya.
A shame because this piece of the Turquoise Coast is stunning: azure seas, blissful beaches, beautiful harbours – the list goes on.
There’s more to the area than sand and sunbathing, though. Its history dates back to the Roman Empire, and centures ago, Antalya was a bustling trading port.
Look out for a well-preserved, second-century arched gate named for Emperor Hadrian (of Hadrian’s Wall fame), as well as the circular Hidirlik Tower from the same period.
Cairo, Egypt
Temperature: 21°C (up to 27°C) – with highs of 32°C in other parts
Sunshine hours: 11 hours
Flight time: Four hours, 45 minutes
Egypt enjoys soaring temperatures in the high 20s and early 30s in April, but also very little rain.
According to TUI, Egypt gets an average of zero millimetres that month, and there’s an 84% chance of having a cloud-free day.
You can’t visit Egypt without ticking off the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx — make sure to book a guided tour to fully appreciate their grandeur.
The Grand Egyptian Museum is another unmissable stop. It finally opened to the public in October last year and houses an extraordinary collection of ancient artefacts.
Save some time to explore the city’s bazaars such as Khan El Khalili, where you can shop for traditional goods, spices, and jewellery, or discover Egyptian history in the Egyptian Museum.
For a different perspective of Egypt, why not take a cruise along the iconic River Nile? You can enjoy stunning views, relax on board, and visit ancient temples like those in Luxor, including the Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings.
Fes, Morocco
Temperature: 17°C (up to 23°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Three hours, 20 minutes
Morocco is generally pleasant in April: it’s sunny with little rain.
While Marrakech seems the obvious place to visit and is well worth exploring – don’t sleep on the northern city of Fes, which should also be on your travel wishlist.
You can wander through the UNESCO-listed Medina, an enchanting maze of narrow streets filled with local crafts, bustling souks, and hidden treasures.
Take time to admire the stunning architecture of the mosques, or visit the historic Chouara Tannery to see traditional leather-making in action.
April temperatures in Fes can climb as high as 26°C, as seen in 2021, so you’ll enjoy warm, spring-like weather as you explore.
For a completely different side of Morocco, consider venturing to the Anti-Atlas region and stopping off at Tafraoute, known for its pink granite landscapes.
Tunisia
Temperature: Average 17°C (up to 22°C)
Sunshine hours: Nine hours
Flight time: Three hours
Tunisia is a treasure trove of history, culture, and beachside relaxation, making it a fantastic spring getaway.
Wander through the ancient ruins of Carthage or enjoy the coastal charm of Hammamet, where golden beaches and fascinating heritage await.
The Medina of Tunis is the perfect spot to explore vibrant markets and taste traditional Tunisian dishes like brik and couscous.
For a more adventurous day, why not try a camel trek through the desert near Tozeur, or explore the surreal Chott el Jerid salt flats?
If you’re looking for a relaxing beach escape with a mix of cultures, consider taking a trip to Djerba. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, charming whitewashed buildings, and the historic El Ghriba Synagogue.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun, immersing yourself in history, or seeking adventure, Tunisia has something for everyone.
Where is hot in April? Long-haul destinations
Cayman Islands
Temperature: 26°C (up to 30°C)
Sunshine hours: 10 hours
Flight time: Around 12 hours (might include a stopover)
In April, the Cayman Islands – a British Overseas Territory in the Caribbean Sea – enjoys average highs of up to 30°C.
Grand Cayman, the largest island, is known for pristine, white-sand beaches such as the famous Seven Mile Beach and Starfish Point (where you’ll, naturally, find a lot of starfish).
So, planting yourself at the beach is a possibility – though you won’t want to miss out on all there is to do on the island.
You could take a tour inside the Cayman Crystal Caves, hike the tree-covered Mastic Trail, try scuba-diving, and meet the local wildlife at Cayman Turtle Centre or Blue Iguana Conservation.
It’s a long journey from the UK, so you’ll also want to explore the two smaller islands, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, particularly if you love nature.
Florida Keys, USA
Temperature: 25°C (up to 28°C)
Sunshine hours: 10 hours
Flight time: 12 hours, 50 minutes
Florida is known as The Sunshine State because it’s hot, humid, and gloriously sunny year-round.
April is a particularly nice time to visit this sun-drenched state, as temperatures soar towards 30°C (or 86°F, as they say in the States). Warm, but bearable.
Family-friendly destinations in Florida include Universal in Orlando and Disney World, there are beautiful beaches and boardwalks in Miami, as well as a taste of city life in Tampa or Jacksonville.
For something a bit different, though, head off the Floridian coast to the tropical Florida Keys – a stunning archipelago known for the chance to snorkel alongside dolphins, wildlife, kayaking and boat tours.
You can also take a tour of nearby Everglades National Park.
Goa, India
Temperature: 29 °C (up to 33°C)
Sunshine hours: 11 hours
Flight time: Eight hours, 45 minutes
Goa is the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture, making it a great spot for a spring escape.
Spend your days on the beaches of Baga or Palolem, where you can unwind or enjoy lively beach parties.
When you’re ready to dive into history, visit Old Goa, home to stunning churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
If you’re up for some adventure, take a boat trip to spot dolphins or hike to the Dudhsagar Waterfalls.
With delicious Goan curries and fresh seafood to savour, Goa promises a full sensory experience you won’t forget.
Guatemala
Temperature: Average 22°C (up to 27°C)
Sunshine hours:Eight
Flight time: 11 hours, 15 minutes
If you’re looking for a spring destination filled with adventure, culture, and natural beauty, Guatemala is calling your name.
Start your journey in Antigua, where you can explore colourful streets and or relax in one of its famous all-inclusive resorts.
Maks sure to dive into history with a visit to Tikal while you’re there, an awe-inspiring Mayan ruin hidden in the jungle.
For some time in nature, head to Lake Atitlán and take in the views of towering volcanoes, or hike up Pacaya Volcano for a thrilling experience.
Don’t forget to indulge in Guatemala’s world-renowned coffee and local dishes like pepian or tamales for an authentic taste of the country.
Las Vegas, USA
Temperature: 19°C (up to 26°C)
Sunshine hours: 12 hours
Flight time: 10 hours, 50 minutes
If you’re feeling lucky, Las Vegas is the place to be.
And if you’re after an American adventure with grand hotels, flashy activities, and beaming sun – but aren’t fussed about lazing at the beach – Nevada’s most famous place will tick your boxes.
Enjoy musical performances, magic shows, and major spectacles, as well as a spot of gambling at the casino.
Tapped out? Shun the strip for a nature walk through Red Rock Canyon, and the wider Mojave Desert, or head towards the shared border with Arizona to see the Hoover Dam.
Mauritius
Temperature: 26°C (up to 29°C)
Sunshine hours: Seven
Flight time: 12 hours
Mauritius offers a tropical paradise for those in search of natural beauty and culture.
Spend your days lounging on the pristine beaches of Grand Baie or diving into the rich marine life at Blue Bay Marine Park.
If hiking is more your style, head to the Black River Gorges National Park and explore its trails, waterfalls, and scenic views.
You can take a boat trip to the idyllic Île aux Cerfs, or immerse yourself in the nineteenth-century Mauritian lifestyle.
Seychelles
Temperature: 28°C (up to 32°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: Around 14 hours
Located off the coast of East Africa in the Indian Ocean, the stunning Seychelles comprises 115 islands.
The biggest island, Mahé, is home to the country’s capital, Victoria, where visitors can take in its museums and Victoria Botanic Gardens. Mahé is also home to the hiking haven Morne Seychellois National Park.
Of the other islands, you could hop to La Digue, Praslin, Silhouette and Denis which all have breathtaking beaches.
Curieuse, meanwhile, is perhaps better known for its unique coco de mer palm trees.
April is the start of the dry season in the Seychelles and has an average temperature of 28°C – so it’s an ideal time, weather-wise, to make the lengthy trip.
Tulum, Mexico
Temperature: 26°C (up to 29°C)
Sunshine hours: Eight hours
Flight time: 10 hours, 35 minutes
You could visit just about anywhere in Mexico at this time of year. Cancun’s an obvious one, and for the city and culture, you can’t go wrong with Oaxaca or Mexico City.
But for relaxation and a chance to explore a few historic Maya sites, Tulum with its white sandy beaches is a brilliant bet at this time of year.
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Not only is the weather perfect for sunbathing, but the temperature of the water is ideal for swimming and water sports at around 27°C.
While you’re in Tulum, make sure to visit the stunning Tulum Ruins, perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the Caribbean.
For a unique experience, swim in the sacred cenotes like Gran Cenote or Cenote Calavera, perfect for a refreshing dip.
You can also take a short trip to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore its lush ecosystems and diverse wildlife.
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