Spring in Europe runs March-June with different blooms by region. Here's the honest map.
Tulips, Netherlands (mid-March to mid-May)
- Keukenhof Gardens: Only open 8 weeks/year. Book ahead.
- Lisse and Hillegom region: The bulb fields are roadside-visible.
- Best base: Amsterdam with day-trips, or smaller towns nearby.
Cherry blossoms (March-April)
- Bonn, Germany: Heerstraße cherry-blossom tunnel. Famous on Instagram.
- Stockholm Kungsträdgården: Free, central park.
- Copenhagen Bispebjerg Kirkegård: Cemetery cherry blossoms.
- Hamburg's Japan-themed park.
Lavender, Provence (mid-June to mid-July)
- Plateau de Valensole: The peak field, near Aix or Avignon.
- Sault region: Higher altitude — peaks late July.
- Best base: Avignon or Aix-en-Provence with rental car.
Sunflowers (July)
- Tuscany around Siena.
- Provence (after lavender ends).
- Castilla y León in Spain.
Wildflowers (May-June)
- Cretan mountains (Greece) — endemic species.
- Picos de Europa (Spain).
- Dolomites (Italian Alps).
- Madeira (year-round but spring peak).
What to skip
- Going for tulips after May 10: Often past peak.
- Going for lavender before late June: Often green.
- Lavender in Croatia (Hvar): Less reliable than Provence.
Strategy
Bloom timing varies by 2-3 weeks year-to-year with weather. Check current-year reports (Keukenhof publishes weekly bloom-status). Don't book non-refundable hotels far ahead for bloom-specific trips.