Flowers are blooming and new beginnings are blossoming, inspiring everyone to get out and explore the world around them. Here in the northern hemisphere, this year’s spring equinox took place on March 19, wrapping up the winter and heralding in the rejuvenating vibes of springtime. The equinox also marked the date of the astrological new year, as it signifies the sun’s transition into the trailblazing sign of Aries, which is considered the first sign of the zodiac.
This cosmic freshness is enough to give anyone a travel bug, but the spring months also overlap with shoulder season in many places, making it an even more fabulous time to take advantage of better deals and smaller crowds as you bask in the magic of the new season. Just be aware that Mercury retrograde will be fogging up logistical matters from April 1–25, so it’s helpful to be extra detail-oriented if you make plans during those few weeks.
If you’re still trying to plan a magical spring break vacation, why not get some cosmic inspiration from the planets? Here are some of our favorite places to travel this spring, based on your zodiac sign.
April boasts a solar eclipse in your zodiac sign, and the gorgeous region of Niagara Falls is located within the eclipse’s path of totality — meaning this astronomical phenomenon will be fully visible with the naked eye on the afternoon of April 8. Whether or not you schedule your trip around this special solar eclipse viewing, Niagara Falls is still an ideal springtime destination. The region’s many parks and gardens come alive with the beauty of millions of blooming flowers, including vividly-colored tulips, enchanting lilac bushes, and beautiful yellow daffodils. (Niagara Falls is known as the daffodil capital of North America for a reason!)
As a Taurus, you’re ruled by the planet Venus — cosmic ruler of art and beauty — so you’ll appreciate a visit to the cosmopolitan Italian city of Milan. The visually stunning Duomo di Milan, Italy’s largest cathedral, is a must-visit for any Taurean traveler. Get an up-close look at the ornate stonework on the facade of the building as you stroll the rooftop walkway, and take in a breathtaking view of the city from above while you’re at it. If you’re looking for a souvenir or two, the renowned Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade shares the Duomo’s sizable piazza. If you’re into design, the city’s annual design festival, Salone del Mobile, takes place the week of April 16, and draws creatives from around the globe.
Spring’s shoulder season in London is actually one of the best times to visit this bright and bustling city, and there is no shortage of exciting activities to keep your busy-bodied Gemini entertained during this time of year. If you go in April or May, when the weather starts heating up a bit, you’ll have a great time exploring the city outdoors. Events like the Eid Festival in Trafalgar Square or the walking tours and programs at Shakespeare’s Globe Theater to celebrate Shakespeare’s birthday are fun ways to enjoy the area’s culture and history. If you need more stimulation, Brixton Village Market won’t disappoint, as it boasts a vivid and virtually endless array of cuisines and shopping options that’ll satisfy any craving.
As a water sign, you’ll appreciate the healing serenity of the Adirondack Mountain region’s waterfalls and other natural wonders during the spring season. From early April to late May, you’ll avoid the summer and fall tourist crowds (as well as the pesky insects!) while being able to fully enjoy the sights and sounds — because as the wintry ice begins to melt under the springtime sun, the waterfalls are replenished, giving you a more powerful aquatic show than any other time of year. Most of the falls around the Lake Champlain Region are accessible during spring, but check out High Falls Gorge (which is just 10 miles from Lake Placid) and OK Slip Falls for some guaranteed breathtaking views.
As a summer baby ruled by the sun itself in astrology, you need some warm weather, stat — and thankfully, the beautiful island of Virgin Gorda is perhaps best enjoyed during the spring months. Packed with pristinely gorgeous beaches, lush national parks, and plenty of luxurious accommodations, the third-largest of the British Virgin Islands offers everything a fun-loving Leo like you could desire in a free-spirited spring break. Outdoor activities like snorkeling, boating, or swimming through the island’s crystal-blue waves are popular. And if you’re into hiking, check out the unique beauty of Devil’s Bay National Park or Gorda Peak, which offers some of the island’s most breathtaking views.
As a detail-oriented Virgo, it can be hard to fully relax, which is why a chill vacation in Tbilisi, Georgia will make for a spring break well spent. Georgia is located in Europe at the border of Asia, nestled between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea. This colorful tree-lined capital city is the perfect place to slow down, enjoy long walks through picturesque neighborhoods, and indulge in the vibrant local food and wine scene. May is a wonderful month to visit, as it boasts a popular two-day natural wine festival called Zero Compromise and the New Wine Festival, which is packed with local vintners from around the nation. The weather will be warm enough to enjoy the peaceful vibe of the city’s outdoor cafes and the art nouveau-style architecture, allowing you to soak in the city’s unique vibe and beauty.
As a beauty-loving Libra, you’ll appreciate the delectable sights of the stunning Caribbean island of St. Lucia. May is the island’s shoulder season, boasting pleasantly dry weather and moderately warm temperatures without too many crowded beaches. If you’re feeling adventurous, try ziplining through lush forests or hiking through the volcanic Piton mountains, which are recognized as a World Heritage Site. If you’re looking for culture, the St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival from April 30 through May 12 features international musical acts spanning all different genres. And if you’re feeling indecisive about where to stay, this list of St. Lucia’s best all-inclusive resorts can help you pick.
While this quirky desert town gets sweltering in the summer, spring is the perfect time to visit to enjoy the magic of the Coachella Valley’s natural landscape and get some not-too-intense sunshine in Palm Springs. While the moderate temperatures make this a popular travel time, you’ll enjoy the hustle and bustle of it all, and there’s plenty to see downtown — including an array of trendy mid-century modern style restaurants, curated vintage shops, and the incredible Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center. If you’d like to make the most of the sunshine, there are loads of places to hike in Palm Springs proper, as well as in the neighboring Agua Caliente Indian Reservation and Mt. San Jacinto State Park.
Fiery Sagittarians like you crave excitement and mental stimulation, which is why planning a trip to Mexico City during the springtime months is such a fabulous idea. Historic neighborhoods swirl together with new and trendy establishments to create a culturally rich experience that’ll keep you entertained for the duration of your stay. Your days will be packed as you make the most of the natural beauty of the region (including the springtime bloom of purple jacarandas), partake in the delicious array of hip local dining spots, and enjoy the vibrant art scene — including the Casa Azul museum which served as artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera’s home and is packed with artifacts that highlight the artist’s professional works as well as their personal lives.
As quintessential winter babies, most Capricorns need a little extra dose of sunshine around this time of year to get them revved up for spring. That’s why the sunny city of Phoenix is such a perfect place to spend your spring break. Nicknamed “The Valley of the Sun,” this area provides perfect poolside and outdoorsy temperatures in spring, usually reaching between the high 70s and low 80s. Make the most of the outdoors with camping, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the Salt River to cool down. Or keep things chill and take advantage of some of the city’s luxurious five-star resorts. Plus, with Scottsdale, Mesa, and Tempe all within a short driving distance, Phoenix is also well-suited for road trips — so you can explore even more of this gorgeous corner of the Sonoran Desert
Aquarians love exploring the most unique places, which is why a springtime trip to Reykjavík, Iceland is the perfect choice. In addition to the city’s vibrant scene and one-of-a-kind natural landscape, you’ll also have a chance to see the magic of the Northern Lights. Thanks to the magnetic field activity from the sun, the spring equinox can be a fabulous time of year to see some of the strongest and brightest displays of this phenomenon — especially if you ditch the light pollution of the city and make the short trip to Thingvellir National Park. Whether or not the stars align for an Aurora Borealis sighting, you can always take a geothermal dip at the world-famous Blue Lagoon.
Spiritual and sensitive Pisces often feel deeply connected to the shifting seasons, so you’ll appreciate the visible transition from winter to spring taking place in the idyllic mountains of Park City, Utah. The region is known for its winter skiing, but you can generally still enjoy late-season snow sports at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley during the spring months. But with the weather warming up, it’s also usually pleasant enough to enjoy scenic hikes or laid-back strolls through the historic and artsy downtown area. The food scene is also delightful, with plenty of high-end options and casual fare alike — including the world’s only ski-in gastrodistillery.