Best Easter Getaways from the UK: Short Haul and Long Haul Holiday Ideas

Easter is one of the best times of year to plan a spring holiday. With the long weekend and school holidays, many travellers use the opportunity to take a short European city break or a longer sunshine escape.

If you’re searching for the best Easter getaways from the UK, there are plenty of options. Short-haul destinations across Europe offer mild spring weather, while long-haul trips can provide guaranteed sunshine and a change of scenery after the winter months.

This blog explores some of the best Easter holiday destinations for UK travellers, from easy European escapes to safe long-haul adventures.

Travelling on a budget? Europe offers some fantastic budget friendly Easter getaways. You never know what gem of a holiday is waiting for you!

Why Easter Is a Great Time to Travel from the UK

When planning the best Easter getaways from the UK, timing is key. Spring travel offers several advantages:

• Milder weather across Europe
• Fewer crowds than peak summer
• Beautiful spring scenery
• Great deals before the main tourist season

Easter is also ideal for travellers who want a quick break without using too many annual leave days. If you’re savvy, you can get 16 consecutive days off in 2026 using just 8 days of annual leave, boosting your annual leave in 2026!

This year, Easter falls in early April, offering two clever ways to make the most of your time off. Dates to book off:

• Monday 30 March to Thursday 2 April
• Tuesday 7 April to Friday 10 April

Best Short Haul Easter Getaways from the UK

Short-haul destinations are among the most popular Easter holidays from the UK because flights are quick, affordable, and widely available.

Here are some of the best Easter getaways in Europe.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon is one of the best Easter getaways from the UK for sunshine and culture.

In spring, temperatures typically sit around 18–22°C, making it perfect for exploring the city’s colourful streets, historic trams, and scenic viewpoints.

Why visit at Easter:

• Sunny weather ideal for walking tours
• Day trips to nearby beaches like Cascais
• Fantastic seafood and outdoor dining

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona combines beaches, culture, and incredible food, making it a fantastic Easter city break from the UK.

Spring is one of the best times to visit before summer crowds arrive.

Highlights include:

• Exploring Gaudí landmarks like the Sagrada Familia
• Relaxing along Barceloneta Beach
• Sampling tapas in lively neighbourhoods

Rome, Italy

Rome is a unique destination for an Easter getaway from the UK because of its religious significance.

Visitors can experience special Easter celebrations and explore the city’s historic landmarks.

Top attractions include:

• The Colosseum and Roman Forum
• Vatican City and St Peter’s Basilica
• Traditional Italian Easter food and festivals

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Spring in Amsterdam is famous for its tulips, canals, and relaxed café culture.

This makes it one of the best Easter getaways from the UK for spring scenery.

Highlights include:

• Visiting the world-famous tulip gardens at Keukenhof
• Cycling along canals and parks
• Enjoying outdoor cafés as the weather warms

Best Long Haul Easter Getaways from the UK

If you’re looking for guaranteed sunshine, a long-haul Easter holiday from the UK can be the perfect choice.

While some major travel hubs have recently faced disruptions, there are still many safe and direct long-haul routes from the UK, particularly to North America, the Caribbean, and parts of Africa.

These destinations remain among the best Easter getaways from the UK for warm weather.

Florida, USA

Florida is one of the most popular long-haul Easter holidays from the UK, especially for families.

Direct flights from London make it an easy and reliable option.

Why Florida is perfect at Easter:

• Warm temperatures around 25–28°C
• Famous theme parks in Orlando
• Beautiful beaches along the Gulf Coast
• Family-friendly attractions

New York City, USA

For travellers who prefer a city adventure, New York is an exciting Easter getaway from the UK.

Spring brings pleasant temperatures and lively events across the city.

Highlights include:

• The famous Easter Parade on Fifth Avenue
• Broadway shows
• Iconic attractions like Central Park and the Empire State Building

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town offers incredible scenery and outdoor adventure, making it one of the most unique long-haul Easter holidays from the UK.

April marks the end of the South African summer, meaning warm weather and fewer tourists.

Things to do:

• Visit Table Mountain
• Explore Cape Winelands
• Take coastal drives along Chapman’s Peak

Safe Long Haul Travel Routes from the UK Right Now

When planning the best Easter getaways from the UK, travellers may want to consider routes that avoid currently disrupted regions.

Many airlines offer direct or straightforward routes to popular long-haul destinations, including:

Direct routes from the UK to:

• Florida and other parts of the United States
• Canada
• The Caribbean
• South Africa

These routes minimise connections and help ensure a smoother travel experience during busy holiday periods.

Travel Tips for Planning the Best Easter Getaways from the UK

Easter travel can be busy, so planning ahead is important.

Here are some useful tips:

• Book flights early as Easter is a popular travel period
• Check passport validity requirements for your destination
• Arrive at airports early during school holidays
• Plan activities and attractions in advance
• Pack for variable spring weather in Europe

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Easter Holidays

Before heading off on one of the best Easter getaways from the UK, it’s important to make sure your trip is protected.

Travel insurance can help cover unexpected issues such as:

• Trip cancellations or delays
• Medical emergencies abroad
• Lost luggage
• Travel disruptions

If you’re planning a long-haul Easter holiday or extended trip, it’s worth checking that your travel insurance covers the full length of your journey.

Where Will Your Easter Getaway from the UK Take You?

Whether you’re planning a quick European city break or a sunshine escape across the Atlantic, there are plenty of the best Easter getaways from the UK to choose from.

Short-haul destinations offer culture, food, and spring sunshine, while long-haul holidays provide warm weather and unforgettable experiences.

With a little planning and the right travel insurance, your Easter getaway can be the perfect start to the travel season.