Easter is a popular time to book a quick getaway. Luckily, Expat Explore has just what you need for some excellent trip inspiration for your Easter Break! These Easter getaways are affordable and cover some of Europe’s top travel destinations. Easter is usually a time for family and friends, and many shops and restaurants are closed during the more religious days. But that simply means more fun is to be had elsewhere, and often less spending is required!

Easter 2024 falls on the last weekend of March, which is springtime. This means the weather will be warming up and the landscapes will be blooming – this is one of the best times to visit Europe! On an Easter getaway to Europe, you can spend the holiday enjoying processions, festivals, and Easter eggs galore.

Find a magnificent Easter destination for you below: 

1. Budapest 

Spending Easter in Budapest, the capital of Hungary, may just ruin celebrating Easter anywhere else in the future! The city offers plenty of festivals, from traditional Hungarian folk shows to bazaars and markets. There’s also the usual excitement of egg decorating and sweet treats for you to enjoy, and you’re likely to find a scrumptious meal made for Easter Sunday wherever you are. 

Related: Experience the beauty of Budapest on a tour through Eastern Europe. 

2. Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain really shines during the Easter holidays. You can experience the city’s Holy Week, or Semana Santa, which brings out the true religion and culture of Catalonia. 

Head to one of the cathedrals to watch the processions taking place, with people of all ages walking around the church and waving palms. Then there’s the excitement of Easter cakes – or Mona de Pascuas – on Easter Monday. While many shops and restaurants will be closed, there is so much that happens in the city’s churches and streets, and most of it costs nothing to watch or take part in. 

Related: Visit for Easter break? Why not extend your trip and tour Spain while you’re here?

3. Lisbon 

Portugal is delightful during Easter, and Lisbon offers an affordable holiday filled with good food, lots of fun, and stunning weather. They also celebrate Holy Week here, so you can expect processions and gatherings much like in Budapest and Spain. 

The weather starts to warm up, so Lisbon’s outdoor spaces usually start to fill up too. Parks are perfect for afternoon strolls, while the beaches offer lazy days in the sun. Keep an eye out for sweet, colourful almonds – they are a common treat over this holiday for many in Lisbon.

Related: Book a tour to discover Spain and Portugal highlights for more Easter fun. 

4. Prague

A big highlight of spending Easter in Prague is the number of markets you can find throughout the city. You can browse and shop for Easter eggs, decorations, and locally-made gifts. 

There are also shows and dance performances in the markets, and activities like Easter egg decorating competitions. And don’t forget the delicious Czech cuisine! The city comes alive with bright colours, enticing aromas and friendly smiles all around. Big bonus: the Czech Republic is an affordable destination so you won’t have to spend much to enjoy your Easter getaway here!

Related: Enjoy a bigger taste of Eastern Europe with a guided tour that takes you to Prague, Vienna, Munich, and more.

5. Copenhagen

Vibrant, bustling, and full of culture, Copenhagen offers short easter breaks to remember. The capital city of Denmark is usually packed at this time, but if you’re travelling solo, you’ll enjoy the busy energy. Spend time cycling through the streets, admiring the landscapes and gorgeous spring colours. 

Copenhagen has a list of exciting activities to keep you entertained. From rides at Tivoli Gardens to bathing in the harbour, or perhaps skiing on the slopes. But there’s also plenty of opportunities to simply take in the sights and enjoy the cosy cafés!

Related: Experience a true Scandinavian escape and enjoy a captivating Copenhagen visit. 

From Easter markets and bazaars to festivals and shows, these Easter break ideas are bound to both enchant and relax you. The Easter holiday breaks may be short, but they offer a great chance to escape for a bit. 

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Which are your top Easter weekend breaks? Have a look at our upcoming tours and maybe you could join us on an Easter adventure!