Spring is Calling: Where Will You Go?
As the snow melts and the days grow longer, Canadians start dreaming of a spring getaway. While many opt for familiar U.S. destinations, why not venture beyond? Here are seven incredible spring destinations for Canadians that offer the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and culture—all under 10 hours away.
1. Portugal – A Coastal Spring Paradise
Official Tourism Site: Visit Portugal
Flight Time: ~7–9 hours from major Canadian cities
Why Go? Spring in Portugal means warm weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes. Whether you crave vibrant city life or coastal tranquility, this European gem delivers.
Top Spots: Lisbon, Porto, Algarve
Must-Do Experiences:
- Wander through Lisbon’s charming Alfama district and enjoy the famous pastéis de nata.
- Explore the colorful palaces of Sintra, a short train ride from Lisbon.
- Sip port wine in Porto’s riverside cellars and cruise the Douro Valley.
- Relax on the golden beaches of the Algarve before peak tourist season hits.
- Visit Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city with a rich medieval history.
Travel Tips:
- Public transportation is excellent, so consider skipping car rentals in cities.
- Try a traditional Fado music experience in Lisbon for an unforgettable cultural night.
- Spring weather can be unpredictable—pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.
2. Spain – Sunshine, Culture & Spring Festivals
Official Tourism Site: Spain Tourism
Flight Time: ~7–9 hours
Why Go? Spain is alive with energy in the spring—warm, but not scorching, and perfect for exploring cultural and culinary treasures.
Top Spots: Barcelona, Madrid, Seville
Must-Do Experiences:
- Marvel at Gaudí’s surreal architecture in Barcelona, including the famous Sagrada Família.
- Indulge in tapas and churros con chocolate while strolling through Madrid’s historic plazas.
- Experience Seville’s Feria de Abril, a week-long festival of flamenco, food, and festivities.
- Walk the ancient walls of Ávila or explore the historic city of Toledo.
- Hike in Picos de Europa National Park for stunning spring landscapes.
Travel Tips:
- Book tickets in advance for top attractions like the Alhambra in Granada.
- Spanish meals are later than in North America—dinners typically start around 9 PM.
- Consider taking high-speed trains (AVE) to easily explore multiple cities.
3. Costa Rica – Nature & Adventure Getaway
Official Tourism Site: Visit Costa Rica
Flight Time: ~6–8 hours (direct flights available from Toronto & Montreal)
Why Go? If you love nature and adventure, Costa Rica offers a tropical playground of rainforests, volcanoes, and pristine beaches.
Top Spots: Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio
Must-Do Experiences:
- Zip-line through the cloud forests of Monteverde.
- Relax in natural hot springs near the Arenal Volcano.
- Spot sloths, monkeys, and toucans in Manuel Antonio National Park.
- Catch the perfect wave on the Pacific Coast’s surf-friendly beaches.
- Visit Tortuguero National Park to witness sea turtles nesting.
Travel Tips:
- Costa Rica’s rainy season starts in May, so March-April is ideal.
- The local currency is the colón, but U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
- Eco-lodges offer sustainable stays that help preserve Costa Rica’s biodiversity.
4. Colombia – Vibrant Cities & Caribbean Vibes
Official Tourism Site: Colombia Travel
Flight Time: ~6–8 hours
Why Go? Colombia is an emerging hotspot, boasting stunning colonial cities, lush coffee regions, and inviting Caribbean coastlines.
Top Spots: Cartagena, Medellín, Bogotá
Must-Do Experiences:
- Walk the colorful streets of Cartagena’s walled Old Town.
- Sip world-class coffee in Colombia’s lush coffee triangle.
- Take a cable car ride over Medellín, once infamous but now a thriving cultural hub.
- Soak in the turquoise waters of the Rosario Islands, just off Cartagena’s coast.
- Hike in Cocora Valley among towering wax palms.
Travel Tips:
- Uber is widely used in Colombian cities, but always confirm your driver.
- Try an arepa or bandeja paisa for an authentic Colombian meal.
- Spanish is the primary language—learning a few phrases can be helpful!
5. Iceland – A Unique Spring Escape
Official Tourism Site: Visit Iceland
Flight Time: ~5–6 hours (direct from Toronto & Montreal)
Why Go? With fewer tourists, longer daylight hours, and breathtaking landscapes, Iceland is an otherworldly escape that’s easier to reach than you’d think.
Top Spots: Reykjavik, Golden Circle, Vik
Must-Do Experiences:
- Soak in the milky-blue waters of the Blue Lagoon.
- Chase waterfalls like Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss on the Golden Circle route.
- Drive along Iceland’s South Coast for black sand beaches and glacier views.
- Catch the Northern Lights if you visit in early spring!
- Explore ice caves and lava fields for a truly unique adventure.
6. Mexico – A Blend of Culture, Cuisine, and Coastline
Official Tourism Site: Visit Mexico
Flight Time: ~5–6 hours
Why Go? Mexico offers stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant cities full of life and culture.
Top Spots: Mexico City, Riviera Maya, Oaxaca
Must-Do Experiences:
- Visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.
- Experience the bustling street markets of Mexico City.
- Relax on the beaches of Tulum or Playa del Carmen.
- Indulge in authentic Oaxacan cuisine, from mole to tlayudas.
7. Bermuda – A Pastel-Colored Island Escape
Official Tourism Site: Go To Bermuda
Flight Time: ~3–4 hours
Why Go? This British island territory offers pink-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a charming island vibe.
Top Spots: Hamilton, St. George’s, Horseshoe Bay
Must-Do Experiences:
- Explore the historic town of St. George’s, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Tobacco Bay.
- Wander through the colorful streets of Hamilton and enjoy fresh seafood.
- Relax on the famous pink sand beaches of Horseshoe Bay.
Time to Pack Your Bags!
Spring is the perfect season to shake off winter blues and explore new destinations. Whether you crave beachside relaxation, cultural immersion, or adrenaline-pumping adventure, these seven destinations prove you don’t need to cross the U.S. border to find the perfect spring getaway.
So, where’s your next stop? Let us know your dream spring destination!
