Brits have had their first taste of warmer weather and blue skies, with temperatures expected to rise throughout Easter.
But given the UK’s famously unpredictable forecast is never far from a sudden downpour, many holidaymakers aren’t willing to leave their plans to chance.
Desperate to escape the spring showers, travellers are scrambling to secure reliable sunshine abroad, with Google searches for ‘Easter holidays’ skyrocketing by 5,000% in the past month alone.
And now, new research from TUI has revealed the European destinations you can count on for good weather at the start of April.
Ranking over 150 destinations based on historical temperature, rainfall and wind speed data, the travel firm’s top 10 features staples like Spain along with lesser-known gems like Montenegro.
Better still, these early-season getaways won’t cost you a fortune, with flights to the winner at just £151 return suggesting a sun-soaked Easter escape might be closer than you think.
European destinations with the best weather for your 2026 Easter holiday
- Turkey: 9.04/10
Mean rainfall: 0.1mm
Mean wind speed: 2.7mps
Mean temperature: 18.09°C - Greece: 7.82/10
Mean rainfall: 0.03mm
Mean wind speed: 3.24mps
Mean temperature: 15.66°C - Bulgaria: 7.4/10
Mean rainfall: 0.43mm
Mean wind speed: 3mps
Mean temperature: 15.38°C - Spain: 7.34/10
Mean rainfall: 0.4mm
Mean wind speed: 4.43mps
Mean temperature: 17.16°C - Croatia: 7.04/10
Mean rainfall: 1.53mm
Mean wind speed: 2.72mps
Mean temperature: 15.08°C - Italy: 6.95/10
Mean rainfall: 1.29mm
Mean wind speed: 3.04mps
Mean temperature: 14.58°C - Hungary: 6.32/10
Mean rainfall: 0.81mm
Mean wind speed: 4.04mps
Mean temperature: 16.02°C - Portugal: 6.05/10
Mean rainfall: 3.86mm
Mean wind speed: 3.03mps
Mean temperature: 15.1°C - Montenegro: 5.61/10
Mean rainfall: 0.99mm
Mean wind speed: 3.86mps
Mean temperature: 14.57°C - Gibraltar: 5.17/10
Mean rainfall: 6.75mm
Mean wind speed: 3.61mps
Mean temperature: 15.5°C
Turkey tops the list
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Of all the destinations analysed, Turkey stood out as the best overall location for Easter weather, achieving an impressive ideal weather score of 9.04 out of 10.
Historical data around the Easter period shows Turkey enjoys average temperatures of 18.09°C, making it warm enough for sightseeing and outdoor adventures without the intense heat of peak summer.
Rainfall is almost non-existent too, with just 0.01mm recorded on average, the lowest of all countries studied, so it a particularly appealing option for Brits hoping to escape the rain entirely.
When looking at specific destinations, the ‘Turquoise Coast’ town of Marmaris came up trumps with the best Easter weather across the continent, typically experiencing highs of around 19°C.
However, Dalaman, Antalya, Side and Belek were all way up there, so no matter where you choose, Turkey in spring is a real crowd-pleaser.
According to Skyscanner, return flights from London to Dalaman between April 2 and April 7 are available for £151, while last-minute family getaways were showing on TUI from £400 per person all inclusive at the time of writing.
Do bear in mind, while the majority of Turkey is currently listed as safe for travel, due to its proximity to Iran and given the constantly-evolving nature of global conflict, it’s worth checking updated FCDO advice before you go.
Metro Travel on Turkey
Greece offers scenic spring sun
Coming in second place was Greece, which achieved an overall weather score of 7.82 out of 10.
The Mediterranean favourite boasts average Easter temperatures of 15.66°C, minimal rainfall of 0.3mm and a light breeze of 3.24 miles per second, offering pleasant warm conditions perfect for outdoor activities.
Known for its stunning coastline along the Aegean and Ionian seas, Greece combines scenic beauty with laid-back island charm, and a springtime break avoids the intense heat and crowds that arrive in summer.
ot to mention, this time of year is much cheaper than a high season break.
Return flights from London to Corfu over Easter are coming in at as little at £158 on Skyscanner right now, but if you prefer a package break, TUI’s site currently shows prices from £478 per person for a week during the holidays (based on a family of four).
Metro Travel on Greece
Bulgaria emerges as a strong contender
Rounding out the top three was Bulgaria, which scored 7.40 out of 10 in TUI’s Easter weather guide, with average temperatures of 15.38°C, light winds and relatively low rainfall.
Bulgaria offers a balanced spring climate that’s ideal for exploring.
Bulgaria is an ideal choice when it’s milder, as you can explore its many historical sites, quaints towns such as Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo (which both host popular Easter markets) or scenic hiking spots without overheating.
And if you’re looking for fly and flip even the most popular seaside resorts along the Black Sea coast are quieter.
For flights leaving from London to Sofia on April 1 and returning April 6, you’re currently looking at £140. When it comes to package deals, the cheapest on offer for this period through TUI is currently showing as £528 per person.
Metro Travel on Bulgaria
Commenting on the findings, Natalie Johnson, product and proposition Manager at TUI Holiday Villages, says: ‘With 2026 starting off unusually wet across the UK, it’s no surprise that more and more Brits are searching for sunny escapes early in the year.
‘For families looking to make their money go further, Easter is one of the smartest times of year to travel. With milder temperatures and lower prices than peak summer, it’s the perfect moment for a memorable, and affordable, getaway.
‘Our analysis highlights where families are most likely to find the most reliable and enjoyable weather for an Easter getaway, from Turkey’s pleasantly warm and calm conditions to sun-soaked beaches in Greece.
‘Whether families are seeking gentle warmth, guaranteed sunshine, or just anything but rain, there are plenty of options to make a 2026 Easter holiday both relaxing and memorable.’
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