7 March 2024

Five Top Easter Holiday Destinations in Europe

Escape to the spring sunshine this Easter with these great holiday ideas

With the freezing mornings, dark evenings and the occasional snowfall making many of us feel a little gloomy, a trip to capture the first warmth of spring can feel like the perfect remedy. We have put together a few of our favourite choices for Easter this year which together with car hire can put a smile on anyone's face. Shorter queues, emptier beaches and a warm climate are all fantastic reasons for visiting these magnificent regions during the Easter holidays.

Crete - This island has one of the earliest springs in the Mediterranean region. Head to the south of the island for slightly warmer temperatures. Car hire in Crete will help you to get around at your own pace. At Easter it is well worth visiting Agios Nikolaos where on Easter Day, the locals gather around the lake with lighted candles before setting off fireworks. Many of the churches are decorated inside with flowers, buds and leaves.

Sardinia - During the Easter period it is hard to miss one of the many processions. Sardinia is a very traditional island so many involve the customary local dress and some will even last all day. Look out for the local Easter delicacy of Casadina, a ricotta cheese and raisin filled pastry. The ideal locations to see processions are Castelsardo, Iglesias and Oliena.

Canary Islands - Most of the major attractions in Tenerife are open all year round now so you won't miss out by going earlier in spring. In fact the cooler months are the best season for walking in Mount Teide National Park or for cycling on Lanzarote. It could even be a more pleasant temperature out on the water dolphin spotting in Gran Canaria.

Sicily - As the largest Mediterranean island, car hire is the most convenient way of getting around in Sicily. With its many Greek and Roman ruins, and culture of good food and wine it is a wonderful place to relax. Lamb and delicious cassata are usually eaten at Easter. Visit the markets of the capital Palermo. The new spring season brings a riot of fresh produce.

Malta - Explore the many different faces of Malta with your hire car. History is everywhere, from its prehistoric temples to the captivating medieval buildings. The Blue Lagoon is one of Malta's most popular places of interest but often too crowded in the summer. If you are there for Easter, try a Figolla, an almond filled pastry often in the shape of a fish or a rabbit.

Travelling to any of these beautiful locations out of the busy summer season will help you avoid the crowds but with a week's car hire starting at just £76.38 in Lanzarote* and car hire excess insurance from about £1.60 per day, you could also be grabbing yourself a great deal!

_{^{*Price for economy sized car for week 26th March - 2nd April 2018 booked on 12th February 2018.}}

Image courtesy of: Pixabay