Easter is a time for family get-togethers, but it's also a time off that gives you the chance to celebrate Easter in another country and discover sometimes surprising traditions... Here's our selection of Easter destinations!
1. Discover Easter traditions in Malta
Holy Week, which precedes Easter, is punctuated by some very important religious and traditional events in Malta. On Thursday night, the Maltese spend most of the night visiting churches. According to tradition, they must visit seven churches before Friday. For visitors, it's a great opportunity to discover the many magnificent churches of Valletta, European Capital of Culture 2018. On Good Friday, you can watch the beautiful procession of statues from the Ta'Giezu church in Valletta. The statues depict scenes from the Stations of the Cross.
2. Spend semana santa in Seville
Seville 's Holy Week is famous the world over. Nearly 50,000 people don penitential garb to march in one of the 58 processions, while costaleros (porters) carry the pasos (altars) on their backs. During the processions, which take place every day, you can hear the saetas, flamenco songs that the locals sing a capella from their balconies.
Good Friday night is the highlight of the week, when important religious statues such as Jesús del Gran Poder, La Macarena and Cristo de los Gitanos can be admired.
3. Admire the Easter bonfires in northern Germany
In Germany, fires are lit at Easter , but this tradition is mainly found in the northern part of the country! Locals set fire to large piles of wood on Holy Saturday or Easter Sunday.
The Easter fire custom has been around since 1559, and was originally a pagan tradition intended to "burn" all the bad things of the past year, the idea being to celebrate renewal and the arrival of spring.
Nowadays, however, it's more an occasion to get together with friends for a drink while admiring the Easter fires. Of course, visitors are welcome!
4. An unusual Easter in the Czech Republic
It's probably in the Czech Republic that Easter traditions are at their most unusual and fun. Equipped with a homemade mini-whip, the children - boys only - go door-to-door to collect painted eggs from the housewives. If they don't have any, it's guaranteed whiplash! This pagan tradition also applies to men, who may do the same with their girlfriends, wives or even strangers. But don't worry, it's all in good fun, and the mini whip doesn't hurt at all! Above all, it makes for a good laugh, and even tourists can get in on the fun. Mini whips are on sale everywhere at Easter time in the Czech Republic, so anyone can get their hands on one!
5. Celebrating Easter in Finland
In the land of Santa Claus, Easter celebrations have an air of Halloween about them. Due to a tradition, also of pagan origin, all children in Finland dress up as little witches and wizards at Easter time, then go from house to house to collect as many sweets and chocolate eggs as possible. It's a very cute sight!
If you're staying in France for Easter, you won't be bored either! Several fun-filled egg hunts are organized all over France.
6. Enjoy spring in Normandy
Looking for nature, seaside and culture? Go to Normandy! With its 600 km of coastline, 10 Unesco World Heritage sites and typical bocage countryside, the region is ideal for an Easter weekend getaway - or longer - in search of authenticity. We invite you to read our article on the 10 must-see sites in Normandy to help you plan your stay!
7. Enjoy the Ardèche before the summer vacations
The Ardèche is a destination that attracts many families every summer. However, the Easter vacations are the best time to discover the region and enjoy a quiet vacation. In fact, you can enjoy the spring sunshine while avoiding the summer tourist crowds. Check out our article on the 18 most beautiful villages in the Ardèche to help you plan your stay.
8. Enjoy the sun in South Corsica
South Corsica is a great idea for a short break during the Easter vacations. Indeed, as Corsica is very popular during the summer season, the spring will allow you to enjoy the beginning of spring and admire nature waking up after the winter. As Corsica has a rich culture and history, with unique traditions, you'll be able to attend religious celebrations that are very important to Corsicans at Easter time. On a tight budget? Discover all our tips for a less expensive vacation in Southern Corsica.
9. A 3-day getaway to Rome
Are you tempted by the Italian way of life? Take advantage of a relaxing 3-day weekend in Rome this Easter. To avoid the inconvenience of crowds, remember to book your admission to the Vatican Museums on Saturday and buy a ticket for the Colosseum and other emblematic monuments right here. And don't forget to get up early to enjoy the still-calm streets in the morning! To prepare for your weekend, we recommend you read our article on the 21 must-sees in Rome!
10. Enjoy the South of France in Provence
If you're in search of sunshine for your Easter vacation, there's nothing like a short family break in Provence to enjoy the charm of its villages and the many historic monuments to visit in the area. Not sure which place to choose? Discover our top 15 most beautiful villages in the Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur region.
Looking for an extended weekend after Easter in May? Discover our Top 13 destinations in France for a weekend away in May!
