The Best European Cities to Witness Blossoms in Spring

Beauty. Trust. Breath. Progress.

This is what comes to mind when I think of springtime. The arrival of spring shows us renewal. How can we approach the transformation of our own being? Just as the soil naturally makes room for the tulip greens to spiral upward, how can we gently shift our relationship to what doesn’t work instead of forcing change?

With spring flowers blooming, the beauty that was being created underground all winter long is finally revealed to us. The emerging blossoms in spring, new sprouts, and fresh leaves paint a new beginning and show us how we can also transform. 

“The day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit. Be patient and stay the course.” – Fabienne Fredrickson

This is one of my favorite spring blooms quotes. It’s about being intentional and trusting that new and better things will arrive.

Spring Fields of Europe

I’ve traveled all over Europe and have experienced breathtaking blossoms in spring. There’s a wide variety of blossoms to admire when visiting Europe in the spring. If you’re planning a trip to Europe during this time, you may be wondering what flowers bloom in the spring. Here’s a list of my favorite spots to be inspired by the natural beauty of spring blooms flowers around Europe. 

Lugano, Switzerland

The city of Lugano translates to “a wonder for the eyes.” I’m delighted to call Lugano my home, and I love the stunning nature that surrounds me. One of my favorite spring flowers gardens is in Via Beltramina. Each spring you can visit and see the breathtaking Japanese trees in bloom. You’ll have to be quick to enjoy the vivid colors of the blossoms in spring, though, as these blooms only last a few days a year!

In Japan, the blossom is called “Sakura.” It symbolizes the ephemeral nature of all things, even those destined to last. These blossoms have become the symbol of seasonality, the temporary nature of beauty and life. It also plays a central role in Buddhist symbolism and in the morals and life, or the “Bushido,” of the samurai.

Munich, Germany

As you search for what flowers bloom in the spring, you have to visit Olympiapark in Munich. Bright Japanese pink blossoms can be found all over the park, so grab your picnic basket and make a day of enjoying the scenery.  While you’re in the city, add the Botanical Garden München-Nymphenburg to your list. This garden is perfect for embracing Europe in the spring with its variety of beautiful blooms such as irises, peonies, rhododendrons, and roses.

Lisse, Netherlands

Be prepared for wonderment when stepping foot in this region of the Netherlands to see stunning tulip gardens. Keukenhof garden is an absolute delight that shouldn’t be missed when in Holland. In fact, it’s one of the world’s largest flower gardens across 32 hectares (about 79 acres), and nearly 7 million flower bulbs are planted annually!

Stroll into another world of enchanting colorful spring blooms flowers with varieties of tulips carefully curated to enliven the senses. Get lost in the beauty of nature while you enjoy the bright hues of the iconic tulips. You’ll also find crocuses, daffodils, and hyacinths that perfectly enhance the dreamy gardens.

Catalonia, Spain

Brighten up your day with fields of sunflowers found in Catalonia. These flowers begin to bloom in May and reach their peak in the summer. I have been to this area for three summers in a row, biking all day and riding along the sunflower fields. The scenery and weather are simply perfect during this time of year!  The best area to see sunflowers in Catalonia is in the Empordá regions of Alto and Bajo. Here, young sunflower blossoms will face east in the morning and follow the sun as the day goes, harnessing the sun’s power to help them bloom vibrantly.

Provence, France

There’s nothing like the calming sweet smell of lavender fields. Blankets of these purple flowers span across the French countryside. I’ve visited the Four Seasons Provence (now called Terre Blanche), and it’s truly a luxurious getaway. Lavender was everywhere! They also provided guests with lavender lovingly put into small linen bags—perfect for taking a piece of Provence home. Lavender is known for its floral aroma and deep purple hue. Many also use lavender to help reduce stress and ease anxiety. Breathing in the smell of lavender fresh from the fields is an experience that will rejuvenate your mind and body.

Puglia, Italy

Italy is full of orchids. There are 230 different species, with 90 in Puglia alone! In spring, the orchids of Puglia awaken from hibernation and transform the region into a sea of flowers. These blossoms in spring are delicate and unique, with different colors and shapes. 

This region of Italy has the richest variety of orchids in the world! It’s a truly unique experience to see these beautiful plants, and the best time to see them is April to May.

Azores, Portugal

The Azores offer ideal conditions for hydrangea plants. The climate is mild, and the volcanic soils are rich in nutrients. 

The hydrangea actually originates from China. Thanks to the botanist Philibert Commerson, it was brought to Europe in the 18th century. Now we get the pleasure of witnessing these magnificent blooms here for years to come. While in the Azores, you’ll want to visit the “Lilac Island,” Terceira. This is where you can witness not only the beautiful hydrangeas, but you’ll also soak in the beauty of wild purple spring blooms flowers.

Live in the Moment of Blossoms in Spring

I love that nature is always evolving, just like all of us. While things could be better in the moment, I know I can trust that something beautiful is on the way. As I watch the spring blooms, flowers always remind me of that lesson. 

As I look for the best things around me wherever I am, those things become more abundant in my life. It’s all about setting the right intentions. I can create my own “flower garden” in my life and be surrounded by the things that bring me joy.

The more time I spend outdoors in nature, the more evidence I see of this.

That’s why during the spring, I like to hike 3-4 hours a day to reach a place that’s full of crocuses and primula, and maybe some lingering spring snowflakes as well. I go to bed excited to spend the next day out in spring nature, with the satisfaction and beauty that I’ve seen helping me ease into a restful sleep. When waking up, I’m filled with joy and ready to go back to the wilderness.

I hope you’re as excited as I am for new beginnings this spring. What are your favorite blossoms in spring?  Have you visited or do you plan on visiting any of the spots in this post? Let me know in the comments below or on my Instagram!