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The last dregs of winter are nearly behind us and things are starting to heat up. So, where exactly is hot in April for a warm pre-summer trip away?

With so many options for finding some fun in the sun, there needs to be a serious discussion about the best hot destinations in April. From the sunny shores of California to the humidity of Southeast Asia, here are my top picks.

DestinationAvg. tempAvg. hours of sun
Catanzaro13°C6
Lanzarote19°C10
Malaga16°C11
Montenegro14°C6
Tunis15°C10
Saint Lucia27°C9
Abu Dhabi26°C11
Singapore28°C6
Panama City28°C7
San Diego17°C8
A curving highway between hills in a desolate landscape.
The well-preserved 8th-century coastal fort stands proudly on the shore, its sturdy walls overlooking the tranquil sea.
Four individuals run on the shore towards the sea.


Where’s hot in Europe in April?

There are so many destinations for sun chasers to run to in search of better weather! Europe is a viable option in April, plus it’s easily accessible and typically budget-friendly. Ready to dive in? Here are my picks for the hottest places to visit in April in Europe:

1. Catanzaro, Italy

A picturesque long white beach with colourful houses lined at the base and top of the surrounding mountain.
  • Average temperature in April: 13°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 6

You can’t really go wrong with visiting Italy at any time of year. From the tip of the toe to the top of the boot, the country is a hot spot for incredible trips away and, of course, has very favourable weather for most of the year. But where is hot in Italy in April? Heading south is a safe bet which is precisely why I’m recommending a visit to the stunning city of Catanzaro on the coast of Calabria.

Spend your days strolling on the beach and relaxing at one of several amazing hotels in Calabria. You can enjoy the waters of the Ionian Sea or make a short trip to the other side of the coast to the Mediterranean. With the temperatures rising every day for both land and sea in April, Catanzaro is a brilliant spot for those after somewhere hot in Europe that’s not too far from home.

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2. Lanzarote, Canary Islands

Three palm trees stand beside a field of plants growing inside the crater-like hollows on fertile grounds.
A small lake with sunlit green waters beside a rock mountain separated from the sea by a black sandy beach.
A family of four people walking on the trail of the volcanic mountain.
  • Average temperature in April: 19°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 10

It is a well-known fact that the Canary Islands can get pretty hot, making them an all-year-round sun destination. April is a lovely month to visit, though, thanks to fewer crowds and less intense temperatures in the low 20s.

If you’re a fan of hiking and enjoying delicious local meals al fresco with ocean views, Lanzarote is one of the best Canary Islands to visit. It’s well-known for its golden beaches and pretty seaside towns like Costa Teguise. Most are brimming with traditional dining spots where you can tuck into seafood dishes paired with local wines. Speaking of wine, why not venture into Le Geria in the island’s interiors to sample some at local vineyards famed for their volcanic soil?

Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park is a major highlight of any trip – especially in April when milder temperatures make hiking its jaw-dropping landscapes much more pleasant. If you want to avoid the school holiday crowds, visit later in April once the summer term has started.

3. Malaga, Spain

A unique spectacular sunlit church's rooftop made of multiple small hemispherical roofs with its protruding bell tower.
  • Average temperature in April: 16°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 11

Wondering where is hot in April in Spain? Malaga is the capital of the Costa Del Sol and a brilliant spot for a spring getaway. Although it’s a popular destination for tourists seeking the sun throughout summer, you’ll find Malaga is a lot quieter in April. While most people may come for the warmer weather, the city itself is stunning, boasting impressive architecture that’s a mixture of North African and European influence.

There’s no better time to appreciate just how beautiful this city is than under the warm April sun and with considerably less crowds than in the summer months. While they don’t call it the Costa Del Sol for nothing, you might encounter a tiny bit of rain during your trip – but that shouldn’t deter you from taking a trip to Malaga. Temperatures can comfortably reach the low 20s, so you’re bound to have a few beach days.

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4. Kotor, Montenegro

People stroll on a promenade along a bay with views of a coastal city with buildings perched on the hillsides.
  • Average temperature in April: 14°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 6

There is just no end to the superlatives I can use to describe this stunning fjord-like city. Kotor is a magical destination and has fantastic weather throughout the year, with temperatures reaching the late 20s even in October. But what’s the weather like in April?  The warmest days see temperatures pushing a nice 18°C, especially if you travel towards the end of the month.

The mild temperature can be an advantage when visiting this incredible destination. Hikes up to the iconic fortress of Kotor will be less sweaty than during the summer months. And while only the brave may fancy taking a dip in the pristine waters of the Bay of Kotor, you’ll certainly feel refreshed when you come out. Additionally, those waters won’t be as busy with cruise ships as in the summer, which makes exploring Kotor’s beautiful old town much more peaceful.

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Where’s hot in April: the rest of the world

While things are definitely warming up in Europe, countries south of the equator will be cooling down. Still, that shouldn’t stop you from looking at trips to Africa, South America and Southeast Asia, as some parts are still going to be very warm in April.

5. Tunis, Tunisia

Beautiful view over of seaside and white blue village Sidi Bou Said. Tunisia, North Africa.; Shutterstock ID 686855305; Purpose: CITY; Brand (KAYAK, Momondo, Any): KAYAK
Different spices on sack bags displayed on the market.
A display of colourful pottery, bowls, and hanged carpets outside a white residence with a blue door.
  • Average temperature in April: 15°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 10

The capital of Tunisia, Tunis, sits between the Mediterranean Sea and Lake Tunis, making it an ideal location for sun seekers wanting to be close to water. If the sea is too windy for you, though, you can always retreat across the city to the lake to enjoy April’s warmth instead.

The word ‘warm’ is definitely the right one to use when talking about Tunis in spring, too. Temperatures on the warmest days can easily exceed 24°C, making it a fantastic destination for a sunny break on the Mediterranean in April. Additionally, you’ll likely find flights and accommodation much cheaper compared to summer – which is all the more reason to book a break in Tunis.

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6. Saint Lucia

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  • Average temperature in April: 27°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 9

Do you want to know where is hot in April (and I mean really, really hot)? The Caribbean is a sure-fire destination for some heat in April! If you haven’t explored this magical part of the world before, the Island of Saint Lucia is an amazing place to start. Easily one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean, it has white sandy beaches, incredible hiking trails and mesmerizing turquoise waters.

Make sure you visit the world’s only ‘drive-through’ volcano st Sulphur Springs where you can drive right up to the edge of the site and admire the steam being released from the sulphur pits. April is a busy month to visit Saint Lucia, so it’s a good idea to book as early as possible (particularly if you’re looking at the Easter holidays).

As this is the Caribbean, sudden showers can never be ruled out completely. Nevertheless, April is one of the driest months of the year in Saint Lucia.

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7. Abu Dhabi, UAE

A man walking along a fortress wall with his reflection on the pool of water beside him.
  • Average temperature in April: 26°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 11

Want to visit a hot destination in April 2024 that will inject a bit of glitter and glamour into your travel plans? It would be silly to not include the UAE somewhere on this list. After all, it is one of the hottest countries you can visit in April.

The capital city, Abu Dhabi, is every bit as luxurious as its glamorous neighbour Dubai. But Abu Dhabi, arguably, has better beaches – making it a great option for sun worshippers. Needless to say, you can expect plenty of heat if you decide to hit the beach at Corniche or Al Bateen Beach. Plus, unlike in Dubai, you’ll find the beaches are a lot quieter during April.

The UAE capital sees temperatures as high as 34°C in April. Make sure you pack your sun cream and drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated on your trip if you do decide to add it to your April agenda.

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8. Singapore

A steel footbridge over the bay inspired by the curved form of the structure of DNA and the brightly lit Marina Bay.
A plate of crab dish glazed with red chili sauce.
Singapore, Chinatown, intersection of Trengganu Street and Smith Street at dusk
  • Average temperature in April: 28°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 6

Now, Singapore does experience some rain in April but hear me out before you cross it off your list. Thanks to its tropical climate, Singapore doesn’t just experience rain. It experiences majestic, hot and humid thunderstorms that wash over you unexpectedly and feel refreshing in the city’s high humidity. There really isn’t anything else quite like it.

The temperature and humidity are sweltering most days in April, with temperatures often above 30°C. You can spend hours, both day and night, swimming in an outdoor pool without feeling chilly. Plus, everywhere – from shops to museums – are usually air-conditioned if you need some respite. Visiting Singapore truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, whether you’re craving a little heat or some of the best food in Asia at one of the city’s famous hawker street food markets.

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9. Panama City, Panama

The old town area known as Casco Viejo in Panama City, Panama, and its historic architecture.
  • Average temperature in April: 28°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 7

What’s in Panama other than a very famous canal? Fabulous warm weather of course! Panama is one of the hottest countries you can visit in April and Panama City is a great destination for a mix of culture and relaxation. The canal is really quite something and runs through the dense jungle outside the city. It’s a shining example of engineering to protect the landscape and preserve the natural environment.

In fact, the canal is so well kept that not only can you swim in it fairly comfortably throughout the year, there’s even the option of scuba diving at Gatun Lake near Panama City. With average daily temperatures hitting a sweltering 28°C, taking in the many sights before cooling off with a swim is a great way to experience Panama City. Note that the end of April spells the end of the dry season in Panama, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly unless you’re happy to get a little wet!

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10. San Diego, USA

La Jolla Shores in La Jolla San Diego, Southern California Coast; Shutterstock ID 109329452
Skyline of a city with colourful and modern buildings brightly lit at twilight.
A female hiker with a green rucksack is walking along a rocky path watching the scorching sun over the mountains.
  • Average temperature in April: 17°C
  • Average hours of daily sun: 8

The Californian coast is a bucket list destination, regardless of the month. What’s more, the south of this great state is warm throughout most of the year. This includes the city of San Diego: a fantastic hot destination in April. Yes, it’s a very long flight to San Diego but if you’re looking for somewhere hot in April 2023,  it’s certainly worth the journey.

With your average April temperatures at a very welcome 17°C, you could spend many of your days wandering along South Mission Beach or up to the stunning Cabrillo national monument in the sunshine. The city is also jam-packed with numerous other attractions, from the immense Balboa Park to several outstanding art galleries and museums, including the USS Midway (perfect for history lovers).

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Where’s hot and cheap in April?

A person walking on deserted sand dunes.

If you’re chasing the spring sunshine on a budget, Tunisia and the Canary Islands are solid options. Their location south of Europe means they’ve got a little extra heat in April. However, with summer still a few months away, you can expect cheaper deals on flights, hotels and everything in between. Have specific dates in mind for your April getaway? Use the KAYAK Explore to find the best prices and save some pennies.

How these destinations were chosen

These destinations were chosen using a combination of data and personal experience. The criteria used to decide destinations are as follows:

  • Temperature and hours of sun: Weather data is pulled from a third-party site, Weatherbase. Temperatures and hours of sun are daily averages.
  • Personal experience: Our expert travel writers travel year-round, often chasing the sun. To enhance KAYAK data and add a more personal approach to these articles writers are encouraged to include destinations based on experience.
  • A mix of short-haul and long-haul: To ensure a balanced list a mix of short and long-haul destinations are included. This is to help make sure everyone finds what they’re looking for, whether that is a tropical paradise or a nearby sunny staycation.

More hot destinations to visit in 2024

Two deck chairs set on a pebbly beach and a silhouette of a couple standing in the distance.

There are plenty more hot countries and destinations to explore each and every month. If April isn’t the right month for you, take a peek at KAYAK’s guide to great places to visit in May. Or why not plan your summer holiday early and secure a fantastic deal on flights and hotels before prices rise?

Before you start looking abroad at destinations to get away to this summer, consider those destinations a little closer to home. The UK is full of incredible hidden gems you might not have considered before. Plus, with KAYAK travel guides, you’ll find heaps of inspiration and handy travel advice.

About the author

Jemima Forbes Jemima is a full-time travel and lifestyle writer and part-time explorer. While she feels most at home on a tropical beach or in the Scottish wilderness, she also can’t resist the pull of tasty street food or a good museum in the world’s best cities. When she’s not globetrotting, you’ll find her reading or working on her debut fiction novel.

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