Here are six top destinations to enjoy sunny vacations and avoid the UK’s rainy April weather.

As we approach April, the arrival of spring brings with it the unpredictable nature of British weather.

The infamous “April downpours” will occur in the United Kingdom, but other parts of Europe and beyond offer warmer weather for those on vacation.

The scenic Greek islands shine in all their splendor, devoid of the usual throngs of people. Alternatively, you can choose to visit Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, for an exciting Mediterranean getaway.

If you’re thinking of taking a long trip, consider visiting the stunning island of Bali during its shoulder season. Alternatively, in Rio de Janeiro, you can attempt to maintain the festive energy of Carnival even months after the official event.

For any type of April vacation, these destinations are perfect for enjoying the warm weather and for experiencing the most enjoyable activities once you get there.

Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, is experiencing a rise in tourism due to its abundant attractions. These include physical treasures, such as the Holy Grail rumored to be housed in the local cathedral, as well as symbolic ones like the stunning coastlines and the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. This avant-garde complex features gardens, an IMAX cinema, a science museum, and one of the largest aquariums in Europe.

Valencia’s main districts span in a nearly linear fashion, going from south to north. This includes hip and artistic Ruzafa and beloved Carmen, known for its top-notch bars and eateries. Situated in between is the quaint Old Town, hosting the city’s top three plazas, such as the scenic Plaza de la Reina and Plaza de la Virgen.

While strolling around the city is enjoyable for most of the year, April offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it ideal to spend entire days at the Patacona and Las Arenas beaches. Additionally, it would be a missed opportunity to not bike at least a portion of the Turia Park, a 6-mile long green space that follows the path of the former Turia River.

Rio de Janeiro, known for its stunning landmarks, vibrant samba culture, and beautiful beaches, has emerged as the tourism hub of Brazil. Few places in the world can rival the multitude of attractions and natural wonders found in Rio, such as Sugarloaf Mountain and the monumental Christ the Redeemer statue.

Some will come for the world-famous Carnival celebrations, but the party is always present in places like Copacabana Beach – where caipirinha cocktails are served into the night – or the Lapa neighbourhood, where locals go to party once the sun sets.

Throughout the city, there are various museums and art galleries that highlight the rich history and culture of Brazil. The Museum of the Future also features displays on important topics such as sustainability, space exploration, and the obstacles humanity will confront in the coming years. After discovering what the future holds, experience the present by attending a soccer match at the iconic Maracana stadium, known as one of the most renowned venues for the sport.

Paphos offers some of the best weather in Europe throughout the year, making it a top choice. In April, it boasts some of the most ideal weather conditions on the continent with temperatures averaging around 20C and minimal chances of rain. This allows for a perfect opportunity to visit stunning Mediterranean beaches like Aphrodite’s Rock, Coral Bay, and the Blue Lagoon.

Paphos boasts all the charms of a typical Mediterranean coastal town, complete with a bustling waterfront, vibrant buildings, and a thriving entertainment scene. Yet, it also boasts an impressive array of historical landmarks, many of which can be found within the Kato Pafos Archaeological Park. These include remnants of ancient villas and intricate mosaics, a 4th-century citadel, and the Odeon, an open-air venue that continues to showcase musical and theatrical productions.

The island’s size allows for nearby day trips to towns and cities such as Limassol and Larnaca, while a common activity for a day is touring vineyards and participating in wine tastings.

Rhodes lies northeast of Crete, near the southern coast of Turkey. Its weather is reliably warm in April, with highs in the early 20s making it easy to explore the narrow streets of its Old Town, some well-preserved fortifications, and a slew of sun-drenched beaches, from the dramatic backdrops of Apolakia and Fourni to more family-friendly areas like Saint Paul’s Bay, Ladiko and Kallithea.

Similar to Paphos, Rhodes boasts a rich collection of ancient landmarks such as the acropolis, Street of Knights dating back to medieval times, and the Gothic-style Palace of the Grand Master. Venturing out to the picturesque towns and villages allows for a deeper exploration of the island, and visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, wine tasting, and experiencing local tavernas.

The Egyptian capital is another city that boasts great weather throughout the year, and this tourist favourite continues to open up more attractions, with the Grand Egyptian Museum – complete with 100,000 ancient Egyptian artefacts – due to open in mid-2024. For now, visitors will can visit the Egyptian Museum, which contains thousands of its own ancient items – including Tutankhamun’s burial mask – or the Great Pyramids, which loom over the city in nearby Giza.

The location of Cairo next to the Nile allows for convenient river cruises and journeys to Luxor and Aswan, over hundreds of miles to the south. However, for those who decide to remain in the city, a good starting point is Al-Muizz, a major street that is home to impressive Islamic structures and mosques. Close by, the market stalls of Khan Al-Khalili offer a diverse selection of goods, ranging from jewelry to lanterns and souvenirs. For a top-notch vantage point, visit Cairo Tower.

By April, autumn starts in Brisbane, making it a popular year-round spot with mild temperatures in the low 20s and less humidity compared to the summer season.

The city fuses surrounding nature with plenty of modern development, perhaps most visible in the towering skyscrapers that sit just back from the sands of the city beaches and the banks of the Brisbane River. The waters wind through the city, dividing it into different neighbourhoods, including the central business district, South Bank – home to the main museums and galleries, such as the Queensland Art Gallery – or Fortitude Valley, the city’s nightlife hub.

The natural surroundings offer many chances to engage in outdoor activities such as spending a day at the beach, kayaking on the river, or taking a leisurely walk on the boardwalk by the river or in New Farm Park. There are also various options for day trips, such as to Moreton Bay, Mount Coot-Tha, or the Glasshouse Mountains.

In Bali, the dry season starts in April. This means that the weather remains warm, but instead of heavy monsoon showers, there will be occasional light rain. Even when it does rain, it can actually help relieve the increasing humidity.

Explore the stunning natural beauty of this Indonesian island, where you can find both outdoor adventure and relaxation in abundance. The island boasts vast rainforests, picturesque rice fields, and an array of upscale hotels. Popular towns like Canggu and Seminyak offer a vibrant party scene for backpackers, while places like Ubud offer a glimpse into the island’s rich culture, religion, and history through its temples and palaces. Whether you prefer a beach getaway or a trek through the lush jungles, this destination has something for everyone.

Source: independent.co.uk