During Easter abroad you will experience unique traditions and customs that you will never forget.
The Easter is an ideal time for a trip abroad as the weather is springlike and the days grow longer. Whether you have a few or many days off, it’s a chance for a getaway beyond Greece’s borders. We’ve selected and recommend 7 destinations, from Italy and Spain to Morocco, ideal for your Easter escape. You’ll have the opportunity to experience processions, litanies, and spectacular customs up close, such as the Scoppio del Carro, feel the reverence of Semana Santa and the distinctive decorations lining the cities’ alleyways. At the same time, you’ll see historic sights and landmarks, while enjoying spring strolls through blossoming cities.
Florence, Italy
One of the most unique experiences you can enjoy is Easter in Florence. The beauty of this museum-like city is enhanced by the spectacular tradition Scoppio del Carro (explosion of the cart). It dates back to the 15th century and takes place every Easter Sunday morning in the iconic Piazza del Duomo, against the backdrop of the city’s famous cathedral.
The ornate cart, built in 1622, is carried from the Baptistery to the cathedral in a procession of clerics, flag bearers, and drummers in traditional dress. As soon as the “Gloria” begins to be chanted, a rocket shaped like a dove, symbolizing the Holy Spirit, is used to ignite the cart. If all the fireworks burn out, it is said to ensure good luck for the harvest, for the city and its residents. Beyond the celebration, don’t miss Florence’s highlights such as the Uffizi Gallery and Palazzo Vecchio, wander its narrow lanes, and taste the famous Italian Easter cake Colomba.
Marrakech, Morocco
A city of colors and aromas, Marrakech is perfect even for a short break. Its heart beats in Jemaa el-Fnaa square, where local traditions come alive with musicians and street vendors. The “square of wonders,” as it’s called, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t forget to buy spices and souvenirs from the market.
The blooming Majorelle Gardens, one of the city’s most popular sights, steal the show alongside the Yves Saint Laurent Museum. It’s worth visiting the Bahia and El Badi palaces with their intricate designs and impressive architecture. Unwind in hammams and in the pools of traditional riads, and savor local flavors at Marrakech’s restaurants. On Easter Sunday you’ll taste lamb prepared differently. In the traditional Moroccan mechoui, the lamb is slow-roasted for many hours in underground ovens. You’ll find it in many restaurants on the main square.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is ideal for a short Easter getaway. The capital of Bulgaria is a one-hour flight from Athens and about 4 hours by road from Thessaloniki. The city’s churches will immerse you in the reverent atmosphere of Holy Week. Visit one of the most important sights and one of the largest churches in the world, the Cathedral of St. Alexander Nevsky, the Byzantine Church of St. Sophia, and the Russian Church of St. Nicholas. In these churches you can attend the Holy Week services and celebrate the Resurrection.
City highlights include the National Gallery and the National Archaeological Museum, the City Garden with the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, and the National Museum of Natural History. Don’t miss the traditional Bulgarian Easter sweets, such as kozunak, which is similar to Greek tsoureki.
Alexandria, Egypt
Alexandria is a fascinating destination for Easter, with its cosmopolitan character and historic aura. Egypt’s second-largest city and former capital for more than 300 years, it boasts a rich history and significant landmarks. Visit the famous Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the Cavafy House, Stanley Bridge, the catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, and the Greco-Roman Museum. Admire the Port of Alexandria, the Citadel of Sultan Qaitbay and the site where the legendary Lighthouse of Alexandria once stood, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Enjoy a stroll along the Corniche seafront road and savor fresh seafood at local eateries. Easter customs and traditions come to life at the Patriarchate of Alexandria, where everyone gathers to experience the solemnity of the days.
Barcelona, Spain
Easter is an important religious and cultural event celebrated with fervor throughout Spain. Barcelona buzzes with life at this time, as Semana Santa (Holy Week) is filled with events and services. In the processions you’ll see impressive floats and reenactments of the Passion of Christ accompanied by traditional music, in neighborhoods such as the Barri Gòtic and the Eixample.
It’s worth seeing Catalan traditional dances up close, such as La Sardana, when locals dance in squares and streets, creating a celebration that symbolizes unity among people. Barcelona’s attractions such as La Sagrada Familia and Park Guell move everyone. At Easter in the city, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy Catalan cuisine, with seasonal favorites like the traditional Mona de Pasqua cake and the sweets Bunyols de Quaresma.
Istanbul, Turkey
Istanbul bridges East and West, creating a unique atmosphere over the Easter days. Stroll through its neighborhoods, the historic Sultanahmet, the lively Taksim Square and Istiklal with its shops, wander the charming Nişantaşı district, go out at night in Kadıköy and inBeyoglu and admire landmarks such as Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Sample local flavors in the Grand Bazaar and on the city’s streets with the best street food options.
Fener is the seat of the Ecumenical Patriarchate. In the Church of St. George, the Greek Orthodox cathedral in Istanbul, you’ll feel the spirituality of the days. There you can celebrate the Resurrection, and at the area’s restaurants enjoy the traditional Easter meal.
Valletta, Malta
Sunny Valletta and the towns of Malta make an ideal spring destination. Valletta’s streets fill with people and many events take place. Easter in Malta is celebrated with reverence, processions, and religious ceremonies. It all begins on the Friday before Holy Week with the procession of Our Lady of Sorrows, when the faithful walk barefoot through the streets of Valletta. On Maundy Thursday a torchlit run starts from Siggiewi village square in the early evening, as pilgrims climb Girgenti Hill until they reach the summit at the Laferla Cross.
On Good Friday the Biblical Passion is enacted with a grand procession in many different parts of Malta, while on Easter Sunday the Resurrection is celebrated with a procession of the Risen Jesus statue after the morning service. Locals and visitors enjoy a hearty meal and the traditional Figolli cake shared with friends and family.
