Spring is a great time to take a well-deserved break closer to home.

Whether you’re looking for a city break or a beach holiday, we’ve got destinations to suit all tastes. Take advantage of this quieter travel time and book yourself a spring getaway. You won't regret it!

Lanzarote

Lanzarote is a dream in spring. It’s the hottest of the Canary Islands, with average temperatures of 19°C, so you can comfortably hit its beaches. You’ll find several fairs and festivals throughout the island, whether that’s full moon parties, sporting events or the popular religious event of Semana Santa in March/April, when the island comes alive. It’s also the perfect climate to hike Lanzarote’s volcanoes, and witness natural delights.

Portugal

Spring is an ideal time to visit Portugal. You may have the odd drop of rain, but the average temperatures make up for it, between 10°C and 22°C! It’s a proper time to hike or bike the trails along the Via Algarviana, and venture into the many nature parks with cherry tree blossom. If you’re a football lover then you can enjoy the drama of the final leg of the Portuguese League in May, or you could visit the Iberian Mask Festival in Lisbon, where you’ll find a celebration of local music and handicrafts.

Santorini

While there are occasional rainy spells, you’ll often find the sun gloriously shining during the spring months of Santorini. Most of the hotels open by April, and the streets pop with inviting blooms. It’s a romantic, tranquil time to visit. You’ll often find the churches of Santorini alive with activity, as bells ring out to celebrate Easter. For a deeper dive into history, visit the ancient archaeological site of Akrotiri.

France is a wonderful country with many beautiful villages worth visiting. Here are four new villages on the country’s official list of its most beautiful villages.

Polignac

This small village in the Haute-Loire region tends to be a hit with hikers mainly because of the breathtaking self-guided trails (小径) that can be found in the green countryside. If you’re after beautiful views and a real “off the beaten track” atmosphere, you won’t be disappointed.

Le Malzieu-Ville

With its historic walls, towers, gates, and old houses, this riverside spot in Lozere often attracts brave explorers. Owning scenic hiking trails and eye-catching geological formations (地质结构) in the area, it’s not surprising that Le Malzieu-Ville also draws in hikers from around the region.

Tournon-d’Agenais

In Tournon-d’Agenais, you can’t miss its busy marketplace where you can pick up some of the best local produce, not to mention the food festivals and events held throughout the year. The village’s hillside location also means that there are some great views of the landscape to be had—if you can brave the step (陡峭的) steps that lead you to the top of the village.

Cordes-sur-Ciel

This village in Tam has some impressive ancient walls and buildings for history lovers to discover, while dessert lovers will want to check out the interesting museum exhibiting various kinds of chocolate. Its streets are lined with shops, local bars, and other museums that show the region’s history, while the surrounding countryside can make for a great excuse to enjoy some hiking.

The Science of the Renaissance（文艺复兴）: Italy

From astronomic, architectural, medical and mathematical perspectives, during the tour, you'll look at the wonderful collections, buildings and churches that show the rich knowledge of the Renaissance while enjoying these beautiful cities.

A full day to explore one of Italy's most undervalued but beautiful cities, including the Cathedral San Petronio's observatory; Palazzo Archiginnasio and Anatomical Theatre. Welcome to the talk "Vital Forces: Soul, Mind and Body in the Human and Animal Worlds" from Andrew Spira and dinner with wine at a local restaurant.

In the company of Andrew Spira, a full day of exploration of this wonderful city includes the Fondazione Scienza e Tecnica; Pazzi Chapel and monument to Galileo in Santa Croce; and Galileo Science Museum. A lecture from David Wootton.

During your final full day in Florence, Andrew will guide you around the Cathedral Museum—a wonderful experience due to the amazing housing of the Cathedrals treasures including works by Michelangelo, Brunelleschi and the original Gates of Paradise. A lecture from David Wootton.

On the last day, there is a morning visit to the off the beaten track" Museum of Communication and we'll transport you to Bologna airport. You have to pay your own fare home after you get off the plane. You are welcome to spend additional time in Bologna and our operating partner Travel Edition can help you with additional nights accommodation, visits and alternate travel arrangements.

To book: call UK+44（0）207 251 0045 or email us

Highlight: led by a historian Andrew Spira