The beginning of spring is marked by Easter and since most people haven’t had a break since Christmas now’s the perfect time to plan a long weekend break or better yet, take a few extra days and turn it into a much deserved week-long Easter holiday.
Variety is the spice of life, so with that sentiment in mind Cheapflights has found an exciting range of trips from cities in Europe including Barcelona and Rome, to the tiny island of Corsica and further afield all the way to Dubai and Orlando.
The Med’s best
Rome - March is the ideal time to visit the city of Rome; less tourists and the weather is mild making sightseeing pleasant at any time of the day. Spend a morning wandering through Campo de' Fiori, the lively fruit and vegetable market, then head to the famous sights: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Spanish Steps.
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Crete - The mythical island of Crete needs no introduction. Its white chapels, charming villages, fishing ports and olive groves grace the covers of most Greek Islands travel guides. Not to mention miles of sandy beaches which attract visitors from all over the world. Visit the palace city of Phaestos, one of the most important Minoan ruins after Knosse and once the centre of the Minoan civilization.
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Barcelona - The Catalan city, Barcelona, is renowned for its stunning architecture and art. Stroll through Barri Gotic then down La Rambla. From there visit the famous architect Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia and then to Museu Picasso which boasts a large collection of the artist’s work. Or if you’d rather get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, spend an afternoon in Parc Guell, another Gaudi gem.
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Corsica - Often referred to as the 'Isle of Beauty' the French island of Corsica is perfect for a long weekend in spring. Visit the white sand shores of plage de Saleccia, close to the popular town of Calvi. Spend an afternoon people watching in one of the seafront cafes in quai Landry, then walk over to rue Clemenceau and explore the tiny shops that line the street.
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Malaga - Malaga is known by most as the gateway to the Costa del Sol - which it is, but it’s also much more. This charming Mediterranean city has miles of beaches including La Malagueta, Pedregaleo and El Palo, a charming Old Town, as well as a stunning cathedral and palace. Explore the city’s historic bodegas and wander around the Mercado de Atarazanas before stopping at a confiteria for some hot chocolate. Oh and don’t forget to spend a day on La Malagueta, the lively beach town.
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Nordic cool
Copenhagen - From the Med to the fun capital of Scandinavia: Copenhagen. Rent a bicycle and meander through the narrow streets along its canals. Sit in one of its many outdoor cafes, enjoy a strong cup of coffee and watch the happy-go-lucky locals walk by. If you’re a lover of contemporary art then don’t miss a trip to the Arken Museum of Modern Art or the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art.
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Eastern delights
Dubai- The small Emirate of Dubai has everything you could want for a long weekend getaway: warm sunshine, pristine beaches, gargantuan shopping malls and world-class restaurants. There’s even an indoor ski resort in case you miss being on the slopes. And since you are close to the desert arrange to go wadi bashing down the sand dunes – it’s exhilarating.
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Marrakesh - The historic city of Marrakesh is especially pleasant during spring, the weather’s mild and the hordes of tourists haven’t arrived yet. Stay in one of its quaint riads and haggle with the merchants at the souks for an authentic experience. Don’t miss an afternoon in Jemaa el-Fna, the city’s main square where all the action takes place.
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Istanbul- The glittering city of Istanbul is rich in history and culture, with a past that dates back all the way to the seventh century BC. Spend mornings touring the famous sites: Aya Sofya, Topkapi Palace and Dolmabace then head to the dizzying Grand Bazaar and haggle for rugs and silverware. The chic cafes and famed Hamams (Turkish baths) provide a leisurely respite after hours of sightseeing.
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A family favourite
Orlando - If you’re looking for a fun Easter trip across the Atlantic that all the family will enjoy then Orlando is the place to visit. Kids and adults alike will love all the spectacular attractions including SeaWorld and Universal Studios and, of course, the world’s busiest, biggest, and best-known theme park, Disney World.
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Seema Salaam
© Cheapflights Ltd
Updated April 2009