Easter offers an ideal opportunity to step away from daily routines and plan a fun or even meaningful getaway. For many, it’s a chance to reconnect with faith, heritage, family traditions — or simply enjoy spring (or autumn) in a new setting. For others, it’s a chance to have fun with the kids, hiding and finding colored eggs and indulging in chocolatey sweets. Whether you’re drawn to sacred ceremonies or family fun, Easter destinations around the world offer a variety of ways to mark the holiday.

Each location offers its own seasonal charm for those looking to make the most of their Easter break. Whether you’re searching for spiritual reflection, sun-soaked relaxation, or fun family activities, the following destinations capture the many ways this holiday is honored around the globe.

St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City

Rome and Vatican City

For those seeking a profound and historic Easter experience, Vatican City and Rome offer an unforgettable setting. As the spiritual center of the Catholic Church, the Vatican becomes a focal point for pilgrims and visitors from around the world during Holy Week. One of the most significant events is the Easter Mass in St. Peter’s Square, celebrated by the Pope and attended by thousands of worshippers. Tickets are free but must be requested in advance due to high demand.

Good Friday is marked by the solemn Via Crucis (Way of the Cross), a moving procession led by the Pope near the Colosseum, symbolizing Christ’s journey to crucifixion. The event is open to the public and beautifully illuminated by candlelight, creating a powerful atmosphere of reflection.

Beyond Vatican City, Rome offers countless ways to celebrate the season — whether you’re traveling with kids, a partner, or on your own. For families, the city’s ancient landmarks make for an unforgettable open-air history lesson. Children can explore the Colosseum, climb the Spanish Steps, or toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain. Many museums, including the Explora Children’s Museum, offer interactive exhibits just for younger visitors.

Easter Sunday is commonly celebrated with chocolate eggs and dove-shaped cakes called colomba di Pasqua, which families can find in bakeries throughout the city. The holiday fun continues on Easter Monday, or Pasquetta, a day when Romans flock to public parks like Villa Borghese or the Appian Way for picnics, games, and live music. It’s a festive time that lets visitors enjoy the lighter, joyful side of the Roman Easter experience — often with locals happy to share their traditions.

Jerusalem, Israel

Jerusalem, Israel, holds profound significance for millions of people and stands as one of the most spiritually resonant places to spend Easter. For Christian visitors, the city offers a powerful connection to the events of Holy Week, believed to have taken place in and around the ancient streets of the Old City.

One of the most moving Easter experiences in Jerusalem is walking the Via Dolorosa, the path traditionally believed to trace the route Jesus walked on the way to his crucifixion. Pilgrims often follow the 14 Stations of the Cross in a quiet, reflective procession that culminates at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre — revered by many Christians as the site of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial, and resurrection.

Easter Sunday services at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre draw thousands of worshippers from around the world. Despite the large crowds, the ceremonies maintain a sense of reverence and spiritual awe. Visitors during Holy Week can also experience special liturgies, nighttime vigils, and cultural events throughout the city.

Temple of the Holy Sepulcher, Jerusalem

Washington, D.C., USA

The U.S. capital offers a distinctive blend of celebration and culture during Easter, making it an appealing destination for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike. One of the hallmark Easter events in Washington, D.C. is the White House Easter Egg Roll, an annual tradition that dates back to 1878. Held on the South Lawn of the White House, this family-friendly event features games, storytelling, live music, and, of course, the iconic egg roll races. While tickets are free, they are distributed through a public lottery and must be reserved in advance.

Beyond the White House festivities, the city comes to life with spring blooms during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which often coincides with Easter weekend. The blossoming trees transform the Tidal Basin and National Mall into a stunning pink-and-white landscape, providing a beautiful backdrop for strolls, paddleboat rides, and photography.

Washington also offers a range of religious services at landmark churches, including the Washington National Cathedral, where special Easter morning services and choral performances draw visitors from around the world. Paired with the city’s renowned museums, monuments, and scenic parks, Easter weekend in D.C. offers a meaningful and memorable way to celebrate the season.

Seville, Spain

Easter in Seville is a deeply rooted cultural and religious experience, but it also offers plenty of opportunities for families to enjoy the season together. The city’s Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations are among the most famous in the world, transforming the historic center into an open-air theater of faith and tradition. Dozens of brotherhoods (cofradías ), some dating back centuries, take part in solemn processions featuring elaborately decorated floats, incense-filled air, and evocative music performed by marching bands. While the scenes are reverent, many children — especially older ones — are captivated by the spectacle and pageantry.

Families can enjoy these processions from more laid-back viewing spots, or balance sacred sights with more playful outings. Head to Plaza de España, where kids can marvel at the tiled alcoves and ride rowboats around the semicircular canal. Horse-drawn carriage rides offer a charming way to take in the historic center, and flamenco shows — often lively and storytelling in nature — are accessible to all ages.

As Easter draws near, Seville’s bakeries fill with seasonal delights like torrijas (honey-soaked bread similar to French toast), sure to please younger palates. Families looking for more hands-on fun can find spring fairs, pop-up markets, and live street performances in various neighborhoods throughout Holy Week.

Santorini, Greece

Celebrating Easter in Santorini offers a peaceful and culturally rich retreat, especially for those interested in experiencing Greek Orthodox traditions. It’s important to note that Orthodox Easter often falls on a different date than the Western Christian observance, so travelers should check the calendar each year to align their visit with the festivities.

Greek Orthodox Easter, known as Pascha, is the most important religious holiday in Greece, and on Santorini, the celebrations are both reverent and visually stunning. In the days leading up to Easter, the island’s whitewashed villages are filled with anticipation, culminating on Holy Saturday with a midnight service and candlelit procession. As the Resurrection is celebrated, entire towns glow with the warm light of candles carried home by locals and visitors alike.

For families traveling with children, Santorini offers more than just breathtaking views. Outdoor adventures like donkey rides through cobbled paths, boat excursions to volcanic hot springs, and easy coastal hikes provide fun and memorable ways to take in the island’s beauty. Many villages also host open-air Easter feasts, where roasted lamb, red-dyed eggs, and sweet pastries are shared among neighbors and guests. These community gatherings are casual and welcoming, creating a homey, joyful setting for families to join the celebration.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna offers a refined yet festive atmosphere for an Easter getaway, ideal for families who enjoy culture, music, and hands-on seasonal traditions. The Austrian capital celebrates Easter with elegance, blending religious observance with vibrant markets, classical concerts, and culinary treats that appeal to both adults and children.

During Holy Week, grand churches such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Karlskirche host beautifully arranged services and choral performances. For music lovers, Easter concerts featuring works by Mozart and Bach are performed in historic venues like the Musikverein and Vienna State Opera. While these settings can be formal, many families find the shorter, daytime performances accessible and enjoyable for older children.

One of Vienna’s biggest draws for families at Easter is its traditional markets. At the Freyung Easter Market, children can join egg-painting workshops or visit craft booths filled with colorful handmade decorations. The Schönbrunn Palace Easter Market includes pony rides, puppet shows, and even a petting zoo, all set against the stunning baroque backdrop of the former imperial residence. Nearby, the Children’s Museum at Schönbrunn offers interactive exhibits where kids can try on royal costumes and learn about life in the Habsburg court.

Mexico City, Metropolitan Cathedral

Mexico City, Mexico

Easter in Mexico City blends deep religious tradition with colorful cultural expression, making it a memorable destination for visitors of all ages. One of the most iconic events of Semana Santa (Holy Week) is the Passion Play in Iztapalapa — a large-scale reenactment of the final days of Jesus Christ. With elaborate costumes and powerful performances, it draws hundreds of thousands of spectators. While the event is emotionally intense and best suited for older children or teens, it provides a meaningful look into Mexico’s devotion and community spirit.

Families looking for lighter Easter activities will find plenty of ways to enjoy the season throughout the city. Parks like Chapultepec — one of the largest urban parks in the world — offer paddleboat rides, playgrounds, a zoo, and plenty of space for Easter picnics. Many local bakeries and markets sell seasonal treats such as capirotada (a sweet bread pudding), pan dulce, and chocolate eggs, which are especially popular with kids.

Some churches, including the Metropolitan Cathedral on the Zócalo, may offer family-friendly services and outdoor celebrations. In neighborhoods around the city, you’ll also find local fairs, street performers, live music, and artisan stalls creating a lively holiday atmosphere.

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FAQs: 

Q: When is the best time to book Easter travel?
A: Easter is a popular travel period, so it’s best to book flights and accommodations 2–4 months in advance. Prices can rise closer to the holiday, and popular destinations may sell out quickly.

Q: How do I find out when Easter is celebrated in different countries?
A: Western (Catholic/Protestant) Easter follows the Gregorian calendar, while Orthodox Easter uses the Julian calendar. Dates often differ, so check both calendars when planning travel to countries like Greece or Russia.

Q: Are attractions and shops open during Easter?
A: Many major sights remain open, but smaller shops, restaurants, and public services may close on Easter Sunday or Monday, especially in religious countries. Check local holiday schedules in advance.

Q: Do I need tickets for religious services during Easter?
A: Larger services, especially in places like St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, may require advance tickets or reservations. Check official church websites for details.

Q: What should I pack for Easter travel?
A: Pack layers for variable spring weather, especially in Europe. Bring modest dress options if attending religious services, as many churches require covered shoulders and knees.

Q: Is Easter a good time for family travel?
A: Yes, Easter often coincides with school breaks and many destinations offer family-friendly events like egg hunts, festivals, and spring-themed activities. Be sure to check local calendars and book early.

Q: Is it safe to travel during Easter given global tensions?
A: Safety varies by region. Monitor travel advisories from your government, be aware of large gatherings that could be potential targets, and always follow local safety guidelines. Travel insurance with cancellation and medical coverage is recommended.

Did we leave out your favorite Easter getaway? Tell us about it in the comments below!