Easter is a little later this year, with Easter Sunday being celebrated on 20th April 2014. The good news is that this lends itself to an extra-long bank holiday weekend for most of us, and perhaps even longer if you planning a longer holiday while the kids are off school. Take a look at these fantastic destinations and take your pick from 10 ideas for an Easter break this year…
Algarve
It will come as no surprise that the Algarve is the primary contender. Year round sunshine will guarantee some toasty temperatures, perfect for relaxing on the beach yet cool enough to enjoy more strenuous outdoor activities like walking, hiking, horse riding and more. Seaside towns and inland villages provide the perfect blend for holidaymakers and the many attractions ensure all ages will have a memorable trip here.
Turkey
Turkey is proving popular this year, with Thomas Cook recently ranking it as one of the top destinations for 2013; if you can’t beat them, join them and plan a holiday here this Easter! Fascinating cities like Izmir, Antalya and Bodrum await you as well as gorgeous beaches, fascinating ancient ruins, fantastic cultural attractions and of course an upbeat night life!
UK
If you don’t fancy pushing the boat out but still want a change of scenery, the UK really is a fantastic option. You won’t be guaranteed sunshine, that’s a given, but there really is so much to see and do right on your doorstep. Perhaps visit a local beauty spot or two, travel to your nearest coastal resort or even venture to some of the countries beautiful national parks such as the Lake District or Peak District. You could also explore Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland!
Malta
You may not have considered the Mediterranean haven of Malta. A small island found just off the coast of Italy, it’s a perfect choice for a spot of sun, sea and sand with gorgeous azure waters at every turn. Often described as an open air museum, it has plenty to offer those with a keen interest in both history and culture with plenty of interesting and attractive places to fill your time.
Morocco
Spice up your Easter holiday and travel to Morocco. In northern Africa, it’s not as far to travel as you might imagine and a holiday here will be packed with exciting things to see and do. Uncover the fascinating cities of Casablanca, Fez and Marrakech before venturing into the stunning Sahara desert on a camel trek, or explore the towering Atlas Mountains on four wheels.
Cyprus
Cyprus is a fabulous choice for an Easter break, celebrated for its great weather and even better beaches. Paphos and Larnaca prove to be popular bases for holidays here but there is also North Cyprus to consider which is often overlooked as a destination with unspoilt landscapes and a relaxed pace of life.
Madeira
Break away from the crowded shores of Portugal and venture to the beautiful Portuguese island of Madeira, floating in the Atlantic Ocean! Volcanic and varied, it’s offers black sand instead of golden but is fascinating to visit with plenty of natural beauty and loads to see and do.
Spain
Spain offers something for everyone and has suitable options for all budgets, whether you are after top class luxury or a cheap beach break at an all-inclusive resort. Whichever area of the country you visit you’ll find a city packed with attractions, and with stunning beaches, delicious food and an excellent nightlife, not to mention beautifully varied countryside, you won’t be disappointed with an Easter holiday in Spain.
Egypt
Head off to exotic Egypt for a healthy dose of sunshine and culture. If you are looking for a stress free break, head in the direction of the Red Sea coast where there are plenty of all-inclusive resorts to choose from; the toughest decision you’ll have to make will be which cocktail to order. Alternatively, continue the kids learning; hire a car and uncover ancient Egypt with a trip to the Tomb of the Kings and the Pyramids of Giza, then enjoy a cruise on the River Nile.
France
France is a fantastic choice, whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or as a family. Hop on the Eurotunnel, on a ferry or nab a cheap flight and you’ll be there in no time with everything from classic chateaux to cosmopolitan cities to entertain and enthral. Disneyland Paris has also extended its 20th anniversary celebrations so that means you can enjoy an extra special trip here this Easter!
Only just came across this: if anyone is thinking of going to Serbia for Easter, it might be worthwhile bearing in mind that the Orthodox celebration of Easter is not till the 5th May this year. Our Easter in the west can fall anytime between 22 March and 25 April, so it isn’t really all that unusually early this year (though it probably seems like it with all the ice and snow in many places at the moment).
2013 marks the 1700th anniversary of the Edict of Milan that granted religious freedom for Christianity in the Roman Empire and was proclaimed by one of 17 Serbian-born Roman Emperors, Constantine the Great. This jubilee year is the best opportunity to celebrate an Easter in Serbia.
Thanks for your comment Tara, that’s really interesting. Serbia definitely sounds like a great choice to celebrate Easter this year!