Suggested itineraries in April

By April spring has spring in the UK and our dreams of the warm summer sun are slowly edging towards us, but it is also traditionally known as one of the UK's wettest months. We have complied our best itineraries for travel in April which promise a slice of early summer sunshine, so you can ditch your wellies and brolly for your sunhat. For those bound to school holidays, where to go on holiday in April also depends partly on Easter, which in 2020 Easter Sunday falls on 12th April.

In North India temperatures are starting to increase across the country which often means there are some great value trips available. April is also one of the best months for seeing wildlife in the central parks of Kipling Country, with soaring midday temperatures and limited water, sightings at watering holes are frequent. Hotels tend to become very busy over Easter, so we would always advise to plan well in advance if you are looking to travel over the Easter holidays. Further north on the edge of the foothills of the Himalayas, April sees the hilly forests of Shimla emerge from the harsh winter and begin to bloom in the summer season. The Queen of the Hill Stations, surrounded by dramatic jagged peaks, is comfortably warm at this time of year but with fresh mountain air, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking.

Over in the Far East, it’s a lovely time of year to visit Japan; this fascinating country is worth visiting for its food alone with Tokyo and Kyoto famed for their numerous Michelin star restaurants, but you’ll also find dazzling cities, ancient culture and superb scenery. April also sees the iconic and visually striking ‘sakura’ (cherry blossom season) which has become a worldwide phenomenon. Follow the cherry blossom through Japan and immerse yourself in the culture and history this fascinating country. China starts to welcome warm temperatures, and fruit trees are in full blossom surrounded by verdant landscapes. Take in the country’s iconic highlights, whilst sampling the diverse culinary specialities on a gastronomic tour of China, or combine a tailor-made itinerary with her neighbour on an unusual tour of China and Burma.

April is also an ideal time to visit Southeast Asia, and in particular Vietnam, which has a notorious tricky-to-get-right climate. In the mountainous north-east it’s still the dry season and there are some great trekking and cycling trails open. At the far south of central Vietnam, the beach-orientated Nha Trang benefits from a longer dry season and in April it’s not too hot yet and the chilliness of night-time is replaced with a balmier temperature. A tailor-made holiday to Vietnam can also easily be combined with the cultural gems of Laos and Cambodia.