Dreaming of Spring? The Most Beautiful Short-Haul Destinations for a Long Weekend Getaway

As the winter chill lingers and the UK skies remain stubbornly grey, it's only natural to start dreaming of springtime escapes.

The promise of sunshine, alfresco dining, and picture-perfect scenery is enough to have anyone reaching for their passport. And the best bit? You don’t have to travel far to find it. A short-haul flight can whisk you away to a sun-drenched destination just in time for the weekend. Here are some of the best places to soak up the season in style.

Spring in Seville is pure magic. The city is bathed in golden sunlight, temperatures are comfortably warm, and the scent of orange blossoms fills the air.

Stroll through the cobbled lanes of the Santa Cruz district, marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Alcázar, and sip chilled sangria by the river. If you time your visit right, you might catch the Feria de Abril, a vibrant celebration of flamenco, food, and festivity.

Lisbon in spring is a delight. The sun-drenched hills of Portugal’s capital come alive with pastel-hued buildings, the aroma of fresh custard tarts, and a gentle sea breeze rolling in from the Atlantic.

Ride the iconic tram 28 through the historic Alfama district, enjoy panoramic views from Miradouro de Santa Catarina, and feast on seafood by the Tagus River. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, spring is the perfect time to explore this effortlessly cool city.

Nothing says spring like the French Riviera. With its palm-lined promenades, dazzling blue waters, and old-town charm, Nice is the perfect spot for a long weekend escape.

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais, explore the colourful markets of Cours Saleya, and soak up the Mediterranean sunshine at a chic beachside café. A short trip to nearby Monaco or Antibes makes for a wonderful day out, adding even more glamour to your getaway.

For a weekend of sheer Italian splendour, the Amalfi Coast is hard to beat. Spring is the perfect time to visit—before the summer crowds arrive, yet with sunshine aplenty.

Wander through the pastel-coloured streets of Positano, enjoy a scenic coastal drive, and indulge in freshly made limoncello while overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Whether you choose to explore by boat, bus, or Vespa, every corner of the Amalfi Coast is breathtaking.

Often overshadowed by Madrid and Barcelona, Valencia is a hidden gem for a spring break. Think warm beaches, stunning architecture, and a thriving food scene.

Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, wander through the lush Turia Gardens, and tuck into an authentic paella by the sea (this is the birthplace of the dish, after all). With its blend of tradition and modernity, Valencia is a city that surprises at every turn.

For a weekend escape with an extra touch of the exotic, Marrakech is just a short flight away. As spring blossoms, the city’s gardens are in full bloom, and the temperatures are perfectly warm for exploring.

Lose yourself in the winding souks, marvel at the intricate beauty of the Bahia Palace, and relax in a rooftop riad with a mint tea as the sun sets over the Atlas Mountains. For the ultimate treat, a day trip to the stunning Agafay Desert offers an unforgettable experience of tranquility and adventure.

Springtime in Amsterdam is a sight to behold. The city’s iconic canals are lined with blooming flowers, and the famous Keukenhof Gardens burst into a kaleidoscope of colours with over seven million tulips in bloom.

Visit in April for the lively King’s Day celebrations, when the city turns into a sea of orange with music, street parties, and markets. Take a scenic bike ride through the countryside, visit the Rijksmuseum, or simply relax at a cosy canal-side café. Amsterdam in spring is truly enchanting.

Spring is the season of renewal, and what better way to embrace it than with a long weekend away?

Whether you crave the romance of the Riviera, the vibrancy of Spain, or the exotic charm of Marrakech, these destinations promise sunshine, adventure, and memories to last a lifetime. Let me take care of the details—after all, planning your holiday should feel like a holiday too!

Where will you be heading this spring? Let’s find the perfect escape together.