The spring break is the perfect time to get away for a bit. Whether you're looking for sun, culture, nature, or an affordable family vacation, Europe offers surprisingly many options in February and March. The advantage? Fewer crowds, lower prices, and often already pleasant temperatures.
In this blog, you'll discover the top 10 spring break destinations in Europe for 2026, ideal for families, couples, and active travellers alike.
1. Spring Break to Spain – Costa del Sol, Málaga & Benidorm
A spring break in Spain offers sun, culture, and beaches all in one. The Costa del Sol has mild temperatures of 18-22°C in February and March, ideal for beach walks, enjoying terraces, and city trips without the summer crowds. In Málaga, you can combine culture with relaxation: visit the Alcazaba fortress or the Picasso Museum, stroll along the harbor promenade, and enjoy tapas in local restaurants in the evening. Many travelers choose a holiday home by the sea in Málaga or a luxury holiday home on the Costa del Sol with a swimming pool, so you can enjoy privacy and comfort at any time.
On the Costa Blanca beaches, especially in Benidorm, family-friendly holiday homes are popular. Spacious apartments or villas with gardens are often located close to the beaches and promenade, allowing families to enjoy building sandcastles, watching sunsets, and taking short trips to nearby villages like Guadalest or Nerja. For those who enjoy activities, the Costa del Sol offers plenty of water sports options, from kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing along the coast.
👉 View holiday homes in Spain for the spring break.
👉Holiday Home Costa del Sol | Luxury Holiday Home Málaga | Holiday Benidorm | Holiday by the Sea Spain
2. Spring Break in Portugal – Algarve, Faro & Lagos
The Algarve is perfect for a spring holiday to Portugal, with temperatures around 18–20°C and lush green nature. You can walk or cycle along the cliffs at Ponta da Piedade or the lagoons of Ria Formosa and enjoy spectacular views. In cities like Faro and Lagos, you'll find both Algarve holiday homes and luxury Algarve villas by the sea, ideal for families and couples who want comfort and privacy.
During your stay, you can explore Silves Castle, take a boat trip through the Benagil Caves, or cycle along peaceful coastal paths. For culinary enthusiasts, the local fishing villages are a must-visit, where you can taste fresh sardines and cataplana. Family-friendly holiday homes with a garden or swimming pool make your stay extra comfortable while still being close to the beaches and markets.
👉 Discover holiday homes in the Algarve for the spring break.
👉 Holiday home Algarve | Luxury holiday home Faro | Family holiday Algarve | Holiday by the sea Portugal
3. Spring Break to Croatia – Istria, Rovinj & Pula
A spring vacation to Istria is ideal for those who want to combine relaxation, culture, and nature. With mild temperatures of 15–18°C and few tourists, you can stroll peacefully through the old town of Rovinj, cycle through the green interior, or explore the coastline. A holiday home in Rovinj offers privacy for couples or groups, while a luxury holiday home in Istria with a pool provides maximum comfort and relaxation.
In Pula, you'll find holiday homes close to the beach and historical sights like the Roman amphitheater, ideal for families. Additionally, you can visit the Brijuni Islands, sample truffles and wines in Motovun, or explore the underwater caves along the coast. Those who enjoy active holidays can go kayaking or sailing along the coast, while nature lovers can hike through picturesque villages like Grožnjan.
👉 View all holiday homes in Istria.
👉 Croatia Vacation | Luxury Holiday Home Istria | Holiday Home Rovinj | Holiday Pula | Holiday Home by the Sea in Istria
4. Spring Break to Italy – Sicily & Southern Italy
A spring vacation to Italy combines culture, gastronomy, and nature. Sicily has mild temperatures ranging from 16 to 20°C and offers plenty of opportunities to explore cities like Palermo and Taormina or to hike around Mount Etna. A holiday home in Sicily, often with a swimming pool or panoramic view, gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace.
In Southern Italy, luxury vacation homes are perfect for those who want to combine comfort and privacy with proximity to beaches and historic towns. Sample local dishes like arancini and cannoli, take a boat trip along the Taormina coastline, or explore historical ruins like the Temple of Segesta. For nature lovers, the Alcantara Gorges and the hills of Etna offer beautiful hiking trails in the spring.
👉 Discover holiday homes in Italy for the spring break
👉 Vacation in Italy | Holiday Home Sicily | Luxury Holiday Home Italy | Vacation by the Sea Italy
5. Spring Break to Greece – Crete, Chania & Heraklion
A spring vacation to Crete offers sun and nature, with temperatures around 17–20°C. Hike through the Samaria Gorge, visit archeological sites, or relax on the beaches near Elafonissi. A holiday home in Crete, such as a holiday home with a pool in Crete, is ideal for families or couples. Around Chania and Heraklion, you'll find many family-friendly holiday homes, often with a garden or sea view.
During your stay, you can explore traditional villages, take a cooking workshop, cycle along coastal paths, or go on an excursion to the Lassithi Plateau for authentic experiences. This is how you combine active nature with culture and local gastronomy in one vacation.
👉 View holiday homes in Crete for the spring break.
👉 Holidays in Greece | Luxury Holiday Home Crete | Holiday Home Chania | Holiday Home with Pool Crete
6. Spring Break to Malta – Valletta & St. Julian's
Malta is compact and ideal for a spring holiday. Temperatures around 17°C make it perfect for walks through Valletta or St. Julian's. A holiday home in Malta or a luxury holiday home in Valletta offers privacy and comfort and is ideal as a base for families and couples.
During your stay, you can visit the Hypogeum, relax on the beaches of Golden Bay, or take a boat trip around Gozo. Discovering the local cuisine, such as pastizzi and lampuki pie, makes the holiday extra special. Thanks to the compact distances, you can easily combine culture, nature, and beach in one trip.
👉 Discover holiday homes in Malta for the spring break vacation in Malta | Vacation Home Valletta | Luxury Vacation Home Malta | Vacation by the Sea Malta
7. Spring Break to France - French Riviera, Nice & Cannes
The French Riviera is sunny, quiet, and elegant during the spring break. Cities like Nice and Cannes combine culture, beaches, and gastronomy. A holiday home in Nice or a luxury holiday home on the French Riviera is ideal for romantic getaways or family vacations. A holiday home by the sea in France offers direct access to beaches and long coastal walks.
Visit the colorful markets of Antibes, art museums in Nice, or take a day trip to Monaco for luxury and glamor. Taste Provençal dishes and local wines during dinner on the terrace of your holiday home.
👉 View holiday homes on the French Riviera for the spring break.
👉Vacation in France | Luxury vacation home Nice | Vacation home Cannes | Vacation home by the sea, France
8. Spring Break in the Netherlands - Texel, Veluwe & Coast
A spring break in the Netherlands is popular due to its nature and short travel time. A holiday home in Texel or the Veluwe offers access to the beach, dunes, forests, and extensive cycling/walking routes.
Many travelers choose a luxury vacation home in the Netherlands, often with a sauna, jacuzzi, or large garden. A vacation home by the sea in the Netherlands is ideal for families and nature lovers. Go birdwatching on Texel, cycle through Veluwezoom National Park, or discover the historic towns in North Holland. Short day trips to cities like Haarlem or Alkmaar are also easy to combine with a stay in a holiday home by the sea.
👉 View holiday homes in the Netherlands for the spring break.
👉 Texel Vacation | Veluwe Vacation Home | Luxury Vacation Home Netherlands | Vacation by the Sea Netherlands
9. Spring Break to Poland – Gdańsk & the Baltic Coast
Poland is surprisingly diverse and affordable. Gdańsk combines history with the sea. Many travelers choose a holiday home in Poland, which are often spacious and ideal for families. The Baltic coast is quieter during the spring break. A holiday home by the sea in Poland is perfect for walks along vast beaches or bike rides through dunes.
Visit the historic center of Gdańsk, take a day trip to Sopot, or discover nature reserves along the coast. Thanks to affordable accommodations, such as luxurious holiday homes by the sea, you can enjoy culture and the beach without the crowds of traditional European destinations.
👉 Discover holiday homes in Poland for the spring break.
👉 Holidays in Poland | Holiday home in Gdańsk | Luxury holiday home in Poland | Holiday home by the sea in Poland
10. Spring Break to Austria – Tyrol & the Alps
A spring vacation to Austria is ideal for those seeking nature and tranquility. In Tyrol and the Alps, you can combine hiking, skiing, or wellness. Many travelers choose a holiday home in Tyrol or a luxury holiday home in the Alps, often with a sauna, fireplace, or large terrace.
During your stay, you can hike to mountain lakes like the Achensee or the Zeller See, visit picturesque mountain villages like Alpbach or Kitzbühel, or cycle through the valleys. For those who want to be active, you can go rafting on clear mountain streams or hiking, while wellness and relaxation in your holiday home offer a perfect balance.
👉 View holiday homes in Austria for the spring break.
👉 Austria Holidays | Holiday Home Tyrol | Luxury Holiday Home Austria | Alpine Holiday Home
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Spring Break in Europe (2026)
1. What is spring break, and when is it in 2026?
The spring break (also known as the crocus holiday) in 2026 is roughly between February 13th and March 1st, depending on the region. Unique: In many Southern European countries like Spain, Portugal, Croatia, and Italy, this is the time when local flower fields and vineyards bloom, offering a photogenic vacation that you often miss in the summer.
Extra tip: anyone who books a holiday home in Istria or the Algarve can experience this blooming nature right on their doorstep.
2. When do school holidays start in Europe?
School holiday dates vary by country: in the Netherlands, it's in February, while in Germany, for example, it's partly in March. Unique insight: Spring break in Southern Europe often coincides with the start of the mild Mediterranean season, making holiday homes outside the crowds affordable and peaceful.
Extra tip: by booking early, you can enjoy quiet beaches in Rovinj, Sicily, or Crete.
3. What are popular destinations for spring break in Europe?
Popular destinations include Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Italy, Greece, Malta, France, the Netherlands, Poland, and Austria.
4. Is spring break primarily a family vacation?
Yes, many families plan around this time. During the spring it is less busy and the prices are also better compared to the summer.
5. What activities are popular during the spring break?
Hiking through green valleys and along blooming coastlines (Algarve, Istria)
Discovering historical towns (Gdańsk, Valletta, Pula)
Water sports in calm bays (Crete, Malta)
Wellness and relaxation facilities in holiday homes (Alps, French Riviera)
Unique insight: in the spring, nature and cultural events are often still authentic and not overrun by tourists, such as local markets in Faro or Sicilian wineries.
6. Is it a good idea to book a vacation home during the spring break?
Yes - and unique: many holiday homes in Europe offer special spring deals or flexible booking options. For example, luxury holiday homes in Istria with a swimming pool, or a holiday home by the sea in Portugal with a fireplace for cooler days.
Extra tip: opt for accommodation with local guides or excursions; this adds an extra dimension to your vacation and sets your experience apart from standard hotel stays.
7. How much does a vacation home cost during the spring break?
Prices range from budget holiday homes to luxury villas. Unique insight: prices are often 20–40% lower in February and March than in July/August, especially in Southern Europe, and you have the luxury of spacious holiday homes with sea views without the summer crowds.
8. What is the difference between a vacation home and a vacation park?
Holiday home: more privacy, often with a garden, swimming pool, or terrace, suitable for families, groups of friends, or couples.
Holiday park: additional facilities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities.
Unique: Some vacation homes combine the best of both worlds: private villas in parks offer access to facilities without the crowds.
9. Are your vacation homes suitable for large groups?
Yes - and unique: some vacation homes in Europe offer flexible bedrooms and suites, separate kitchens, and communal areas, allowing multiple families or groups of friends to stay together without compromising on privacy.
10. How can I find the best vacation homes for spring break?
At Leisure Time, you can use filters for:
Location (by the sea, centrally in the city)
Amenities (Games, Umbrella, Washing Machine) • Wellness (Swimming Pool, Sauna, Jacuzzi)
Discover more inspiration for your vacation.
Is the spring break not possible? Then perhaps take a look at our top lists for the summer vacation in 2026? Below you'll find our other blogs, packed with inspiration so you can also enjoy a great vacation:
Top 5 Summer Destinations in the Netherlands (2026) - Discover special hidden gems in the Netherlands for a relaxing vacation.
Top 10 Summer Vacation Destinations in Europe (2026) - Get inspired by the most popular destinations in Europe, from sun-drenched beaches to cultural cities.
Additionally, you'll find many more travel ideas, tips, and vacation inspiration for 2026 on our Stories page. Get inspired and plan your perfect vacation:
👉 Check out all the blogs and stories on our Stories page and discover the best destinations, accommodations, personal stories, and tips for your summer vacation!
