HUNT FOR THE TOP 5 MINI-BREAKS THIS EASTER HOLIDAY
The long Easter weekend is less than two months away and for many it could be the first opportunity they’ve had to leave the UK or take a proper holiday since the pandemic began. As travel restrictions finally begin to ease in the UK and abroad, now could be the time to start planning a short spring getaway.
For all the makings of a stress-free trip to remember, Quotezone.co.uk has rounded up some of the best Easter weekend getaways for inspiration.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
If you’re looking for the perfect city getaway to sight-see, Lisbon is a one-stop shop. From beautiful cobblestone streets to cultural and historical attractions, plus delicious local wines and delicacies, this Easter escape can kickstart the warmer weather, as temperatures in Portugal can often hit 25 degrees Celsius as early as April.
Tourists flock to Lisbon’s Easter celebratory mass on Sunday morning, and you are certain to expect celebrations at the Sé de Lisboa, which is close to Alfama. Or feel free to indulge in the city’s traditional Easter desserts, such as Pão-de-Ló.
Other places to check out include:
- Miradouro de Santa Luzia
- Pink street
- Praça do Comércio
- Lisbon Castle
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
If a quiet break is high on the agenda, with the tulips in bloom and spring in the air, Amsterdam is a must-see. The plethora of options available to visitors means that you’ll never be bored. A go-to for many travellers is touring the canals on a pedal boat – but for an added dose of culture, attend the theatres such as Pathé Tuschinski – or, if you’re looking to save some money, stop by the Concertgebouw for a free lunchtime classical concert.
For those who love activities, on Easter Sunday, local petting zoos in Amsterdam often host special Easter parties with an egg hunt, egg decorating, festive treats and fun activities.
3. Cotswolds, England
If you are looking to avoid airports and longer travel times, the Cotswolds could provide the perfect balance this Easter. Its stunning natural backdrop, and relaxed pace of life, provides the perfect staycation for those looking to escape the chaos of city life.
The Cotswolds is home to many top tourist attractions, including 1,000-year-old Warwick Castle. But, if you’re looking for something more niche, try hunting for antiques in Cirencester or for a boozy night for two, be sure to visit Britain’s oldest inn, The Porch House.
4. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Voted one of the most Instagrammable* spots in Europe, Dubrovnik will not fail to capture the perfect moment for social media with its stunning scenery.
Easter is a particularly meaningful celebration in Dubrovnik. On Good Friday, a large procession takes place throughout the city of Dubrovnik with dozens of men carrying wooden crosses on their backs through the city.
If you’re really keen to immerse yourself in the culture, play a game called kockanje – the rules are simple, two players hit their respective boiled eggs together with the unbroken egg being the winner.
5. Paris, France
Even though Paris often comes with a hefty price tag, there are cost-effective options to make a memorable Easter weekend. From taking a trip to Versailles and having a picnic in the Champs de Mars, to enjoying the sunset from the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette, the options really are endless.
And though many shops and restaurants will be closed on both Easter Sunday and Easter Monday, a number of famous museums and monuments will be open. The Louvre Museum is possibly the most famous, but chocolate lovers must check out Choco-Story Paris.
If you’re looking for something child friendly, research some of Paris’ most famous Easter egg hunts, which take you on an adventure to find the chocolate eggs made by Paris’ renowned chocolate makers.
Greg Wilson, Founder of Quotezone.co.uk, comments: “Our research will hopefully help inspire those looking to leave the winter behind and plan something to look forward to this spring.
“Of course, it’s still important to exercise caution when travelling abroad. Covid-19 hasn’t ended just yet and trips abroad may still be impacted through illness or restrictions. If you are planning on getting away this Easter, do consider buying travel insurance when booking the holiday, rather than when the trip starts. This should ensure you are compensated if anything prevents you from travelling.”
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