Where to Travel in April? Top International Destinations for Songkran

Where to travel in April? If you're planning to escape during Songkran for a fantastic trip abroad, you’re in the right place! We’ve gathered the best international destinations for April along with exciting activities that will make your trip memorable and fun-filled!

Looking for an April destination? Escape the heat of Thailand’s Songkran and head to Seoul, South Korea, for the pleasant weather and beautiful cherry blossoms. In April, Seoul transforms into a stunning pink wonderland with cherry blossoms covering the city. The cool breeze refreshes you, offering an ideal balance—not too hot, not too cold. The cherry blossoms bloom from early to mid-April, but the timing can vary slightly each year. Be sure to check the blossom forecast released at the end of March to plan your trip perfectly.

Morning: Gyeongbokgung Palace
Start your day by visiting the stunning Gyeongbokgung Palace, a beautiful blend of Korean history and culture. Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, it’s best to visit early to avoid crowds. The palace grounds are surrounded by cherry blossoms, adding to the charm of your visit. For an even more immersive experience, rent a traditional hanbok for photos.

Recommended restaurant: Tosokchon Samgyetang
Enjoy a hearty breakfast with traditional Korean ginseng chicken soup, a beloved dish by locals and tourists alike.

Midday: Yeouido Park
Continue your cherry blossom experience at Yeouido Park, the most popular spot for blossom viewing in Seoul. Take a relaxing stroll under the cherry trees or rent a bike for a scenic ride. You can also enjoy a picnic under the blossoms with family or friends.

Recommended restaurant: Gwangjang Market
Try local street food like kimchi pancakes and tteokbokki for a delicious snack.

Afternoon: Namsan Park
Head to Namsan Park for fresh air and panoramic views of Seoul. Ride the cable car up to N Seoul Tower for 360-degree views of the city, with cherry blossoms in the foreground. Don’t forget to hang a love lock if you’re visiting with a partner!

Recommended restaurant: N Grill at N Seoul Tower
Indulge in European cuisine while enjoying stunning views of the city.

Evening: Insadong Street
End your day with a leisurely walk down Insadong Street, famous for its art galleries and traditional Korean crafts. Visit between 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM to enjoy the romantic glow of the street lights. Sample local dishes for dinner or stop by a health-conscious tea house.

Recommended restaurant: BongTak BBQ
Don’t miss out on Korean BBQ, with options like samgyeopsal and galbi paired with spicy kimchi stew.

Where to stay in Seoul

Activities to try in Seoul

If you’re searching for a Songkran getaway that offers stunning beaches and pristine nature, Bali is the place to be! In April, Bali enjoys pleasant weather with mild sunlight, making it perfect for relaxing and exploring its natural beauty. Bali’s charm will leave you captivated, making it the ideal answer to “Where to travel in April?”

Morning: Bali Swing
Start your adventure with the famous Bali Swing, where you can swing high above the lush green forests. This breathtaking experience gives you the feeling of flying, with incredible views as far as the eye can see. Go early between 8:00 AM and 10:00 AM for fewer crowds and perfect lighting for photos.

Recommended restaurant: D’Alas Warung
Located nearby, this restaurant serves traditional Indonesian dishes like Nasi Campur with a blend of flavorful sides that will immerse you in local cuisine.

Midday: Tegalalang Rice Terrace
After the excitement of Bali Swing, head to the serene Tegalalang Rice Terrace to marvel at the emerald-green rice paddies that cascade down the hills. A stroll through the narrow paths of these terraces is a photographer’s dream.

Recommended restaurant: Cafe Pomegranate
Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while overlooking the rice terraces. Try Gado Gado, a fresh salad with peanut sauce that pairs perfectly with the stunning scenery.

Afternoon: Uluwatu Temple
In the afternoon, visit Uluwatu Temple, a majestic golden temple perched on a cliff overlooking the vast Indian Ocean. The serene atmosphere makes it an ideal place for reflection and relaxation. Take a peaceful walk along the cliffside and take in the stunning ocean views.

Recommended restaurant: Single Fin Bali
This popular café near Uluwatu Temple offers breathtaking views of the ocean along with a delicious seafood platter.

Evening: Kuta Beach
Finish your day at Kuta Beach, known for its golden sand and romantic sunsets. Arrive around 4:00 PM to watch the sun dip into the horizon as you walk along the shore. The lively beach vibe, with locals and tourists mingling, will ease away any travel fatigue.

Recommended restaurant: Gabah Indonesian Cuisine
Dine on authentic Indonesian dishes like Bebek Betutu (spiced duck) and Nasi Goreng while soaking in the relaxing beach atmosphere.

Where to stay in Bali

Activities to try in Bali

If you’re searching for international travel destinations in April, Turkey is a prime choice, especially during the Tulip Festival. Springtime in Istanbul brings an explosion of colorful tulips throughout the city’s parks, accompanied by cool, pleasant weather. You can explore the city’s famous attractions at your leisure.

Morning: Emirgan Park
Begin your day at Emirgan Park, one of Istanbul’s best tulip-viewing spots. This expansive park becomes a sea of tulips in various colors during April. Arrive early, around 8:00 AM, to enjoy the quiet beauty of the flowers.

Recommended restaurant: Sutis Emirgan
Enjoy traditional Turkish breakfast favorites like Menemen (scrambled eggs with vegetables) and Simit (sesame-covered bread rings).

Midday: Blue Mosque
Next, head to the iconic Blue Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece. The interior’s intricate blue tile work and impressive dome will leave you in awe. Mid-morning is the perfect time to see the sunlight streaming through the windows, enhancing the beauty of the space.

Recommended restaurant: Matbah Restaurant
Dine on traditional Turkish dishes like kebabs and lahmacun (Turkish pizza) at this popular spot.

Afternoon: Topkapi Palace
Visit the historic Topkapi Palace in the afternoon, where you can explore its beautiful courtyards and rooms filled with royal treasures. The palace also offers a stunning view of the Marmara Sea.

Recommended restaurant: Konyali Lokantasi
Located inside the palace, this restaurant serves authentic Turkish cuisine. Try the famous Iskender Kebab and end your meal with a sweet slice of baklava.

Evening: Galata Tower
End your day with a visit to the Galata Tower. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Istanbul at sunset. As the city lights come on, the view becomes even more magical.

Recommended restaurant: Leb-i Derya
Close to Galata Tower, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and Turkish fusion dishes. Try the sea bass paired with meze, a delightful selection of appetizers.

Where to stay in Turkey

Activities to try in Turkey

Tokyo is another excellent option for Songkran travelers, especially during cherry blossom season. The city’s beautiful parks and festivals, combined with cool spring weather, make it a must-visit in April.

Morning: Ueno Park
Begin your day with a relaxing stroll through Ueno Park, one of Tokyo’s top hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spots. Thousands of cherry trees bloom here, attracting visitors who picnic under the blossoms. Arriving early ensures a peaceful atmosphere before the crowds gather.

Recommended restaurant: Inshotei
Located within Ueno Park, this traditional restaurant offers beautiful kaiseki meals, a multi-course dining experience that celebrates seasonal ingredients.

Midday: Sensoji Temple
Next, visit Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. This historic temple is famous for its large red lantern and bustling shopping street. Take in the cultural sights and browse for souvenirs along Nakamise Street.

Recommended restaurant: Asakusa Imahan
Known for its sukiyaki and shabu-shabu, this restaurant is perfect for a traditional Japanese meal.

Afternoon: Tokyo Skytree
In the afternoon, head to Tokyo Skytree, the tallest structure in Tokyo. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, and on clear days, you can even spot Mount Fuji in the distance.

Recommended restaurant: Sky Restaurant 634
Enjoy French-Japanese fusion cuisine with a stunning view of the city skyline.

Evening: Shibuya
End your day in the bustling district of Shibuya. Cross the famous Shibuya Crossing, the busiest intersection in the world, and snap a picture with the statue of Hachiko, the loyal dog.

Recommended restaurant: Uobei Sushi
For dinner, enjoy fresh conveyor belt sushi in a lively setting. Don’t miss the tuna and sea urchin sushi.

Where to stay in Tokyo

Exciting activities to try in Tokyo

Wondering where to travel in April? Taiwan is at its most beautiful in April, especially at Sun Moon Lake, where a light mist hovers over the water, and the mountains are in full bloom. The weather is cool and comfortable, perfect for scenic walks and nature exploration. April is also a great time to experience the vibrant night markets, where you can indulge in local culture and cuisine.

Morning: Sun Moon Lake
Start your day at the serene Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest lake. Arrive early, around 6:00 AM, to enjoy the misty morning views. You can take a boat ride around the lake or cycle along the 30 km scenic path.

Recommended restaurant: Sun Moon Lake Restaurant
Enjoy fresh local fish from the lake along with authentic Taiwanese dishes.

Midday: Wenwu Temple
After exploring the lake, visit Wenwu Temple, located on the northern shore. This beautiful temple offers panoramic views of the lake and is a peaceful spot for reflection.

Recommended restaurant: Yi Yuan Lou
For a light brunch, try dim sum or noodles at this popular restaurant near the temple.

Afternoon: Yangmingshan National Park
Spend your afternoon hiking through the stunning Yangmingshan National Park, just outside of Taipei. The park is known for its beautiful flower fields and hot springs, offering a refreshing escape from the city.

Recommended restaurant: The Top
This hilltop restaurant offers panoramic views and serves delicious Taiwanese fusion dishes, such as prawn salad and BBQ pork.

Evening: Shilin Night Market
End your day at the bustling Shilin Night Market, famous for its street food and lively atmosphere. Sample crispy fried chicken, bubble tea, and oyster omelets as you explore the stalls.

Recommended restaurant: Hot-Star Large Fried Chicken
Try the market’s most famous dish, the giant fried chicken cutlet, alongside unique Taiwanese snacks.

Where to stay in Taipei

Activities to try in Taiwan

For those planning an international trip in April and seeking peaceful natural beauty, the South Island of New Zealand should be on your list! April marks autumn in New Zealand, when the landscapes transform into a stunning palette of reds, oranges, and yellows. With crisp air and scenic views, it’s the perfect time for nature walks and photography, making it an unforgettable travel experience.

Morning: Arrowtown
Start your day in Arrowtown, a small village near Queenstown, renowned for its breathtaking fall foliage. A morning walk along the Arrow River offers the best views of the golden trees reflected in the water.

Recommended restaurant: The Fork and Tap
Enjoy local favorites like lamb shank paired with craft beer from this popular restaurant.

Midday: Lake Hayes
A short drive from Arrowtown brings you to Lake Hayes, famous for its mirror-like reflections of the autumn trees. Take a leisurely walk around the lake or have a picnic by the shore to soak in the beauty.

Recommended restaurant: Amisfield Winery & Bistro
This high-end winery offers fresh oysters and slow-cooked venison, paired with local New Zealand wines.

Afternoon: Queenstown Gardens
Return to Queenstown and explore Queenstown Gardens, a tranquil spot to admire the changing leaves and the vast expanse of Lake Wakatipu.

Recommended restaurant: Fergburger
Known for serving some of the best burgers in New Zealand, try the Ferg Deluxe for a filling meal.

Evening: Lake Wakatipu & Sunset Cruise
Cap off your day with a sunset cruise on Lake Wakatipu. The calm waters, framed by towering mountains, create a magical atmosphere as the sun sets.

Recommended restaurant: TSS Earnslaw
Enjoy a BBQ dinner aboard the TSS Earnslaw while taking in the stunning views of the lake.

Where to stay in Queenstown

Activities to try in Queenstown

These are some of the top international travel destinations for April, each offering unique experiences that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you're chasing cherry blossoms in Japan, enjoying Bali’s tropical beauty, or exploring Turkey’s vibrant tulip fields, every location is perfect for a memorable Songkran getaway. So, where will you be traveling this April? Book your flights and accommodations with Gother for unbeatable deals and start your adventure today!