14 sunny escapes for spring

With little rainfall and temperatures sitting between 23°C and 30°C, springtime is the perfect time to visit the Caribbean. Whether you head to Barbados or the Bahamas, Grenada or Jamaica, Antigua or Aruba, you’ll be sure to find some of the most incredible beaches in the world. For a taste of culture, explore the history of Nassau in the Bahamas or raise a glass in the rum distillery of Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados. Fancy yourself an adventurer? Dive among the pristine reefs of the Cayman Islands or go ziplining in tropical forests in Jamaica.

With fewer crowds than in the summer and temperatures reaching 22°C, spring is the perfect time to explore this Greek island. Hill walks reward you with lavish displays of colourful spring flowers or you can hike up from Perissa to the Byzantine and Roman ruins of Thira. Fira and Oia have pretty streets for daytime wanders and in the evening, watch the sunset over the blood-red cliffs of Ammoudi.

Stretching over 1000km along the Aegean and Mediterranean seas, the Turkish Riviera is a top destination for soaking up the sun from early spring. With endless beaches and temperatures ranging from 18°C to 26°C, the entire coastline is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Antalya, in particular, has a range of stunning sandy beaches and is perfect for families with kid-friendly fun at Aqualand and The Land of Legends Theme Park.

Bask in some spring sunshine in Split. By May, flowers in the city and surrounding countryside are in full bloom while the days are perfect for long walks on the beach or wanders around Marjan Forest Park. With temperatures peaking at 23°C, you'll be more than comfortable wandering the narrow cobbled streets inside the walled Diocletian's Palace. Look out for hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving local delicacies such as cuttlefish risotto.

With summers in Dubai generally being unbearably hot, early spring is the best time to visit Dubai. Ranging between 18°C to 29°C in March and 21°C to 33°C in April, beach weather is guaranteed. Brush up on your paddle boarding and surfing skills before escaping the midday sun in Dubai's marble-clad malls. Ride to the top of Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building or wait until after dark and enjoy the colourful magic of the Dubai Fountain. For something a little different, Dubai even has an indoor ski slope!

Spring temperatures in Malta see highs of 24°C, warm enough for sunbathing, but also cool enough to comfortably wander the many historic charms of the capital, Valletta. History buffs should also be sure to visit the UNESCO-protected Ġgantija Temples in Gozo, while adventurous travellers should spend an afternoon hiking the scenic Dingli Cliffs. For some of the best beaches in Malta, head to Mellieha Bay.

In spring, this city of Moorish architecture, flamboyant flamenco and vibrant street life really comes to life. The scent of orange blossom is ever-present while the Real Alcázar, Catedral de Sevilla and Museo de Bellas Artes are pleasantly crowd-free. The children won't be queueing for the waterslides at the Aquapolis Waterpark either. Seville is more crowded during Semana Santa but the pomp and processions are worth it.

With temperatures in the mid-twenties, Sicily makes a fantastic spring escape. This large island is a fascinating mix of ancient relics, lush landscapes and beautiful beaches. Etna, with its constant whisper of smoke, provides a background to Catania while the vibrant capital Palermo is a mix of historic attractions and modern culture. Visit at Easter and sample rich dishes of slow-cooked lamb stew and traditional desserts such as cassata.

In summer, Nice is the place to see and be seen, but in spring you get all the glamour without the crowds. With temperatures of up to 24°C, it's warm enough to enjoy city beaches but still cool enough to explore the French and Italian architecture of the Old Town. Cycle along the coast to Cannes or visit the lavender fields of Grasse and Vence. As spring progresses the fields turn into a patchwork of colour.

With its golden beaches and unspoiled nature, the Algarve has it all. In spring, when temperatures move into the twenties, head to Marinha Beach or Praia da Rocha, two of the best beaches in Europe. On cooler days, wander through the narrow streets of the capital Faro or discover the remains of the Moorish Castle of Tavira. Ponta da Piedade is also a must – this gorgeous landscape is best at sunset.

Temperatures in the Canary Islands can reach highs of 25°C by May, making these islands the perfect destination for some sunshine. For glorious beaches and picturesque landscapes, head to Tenerife. Trek in the Mount Teide National Park or explore the history of Santa Cruz. Fuerteventura and Lanzarote are quieter, especially in spring, and perfect for leisurely walks and fun on the beach, while Gran Canaria is home to the astonishing Maspalomas Dunes.

With temperatures reaching highs of 23°C, fewer crowds than in the summer and wildflowers at their best, spring is an ideal time to visit Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza or Formentera. Spend a few days exploring Mallorca's historic capital Palma with its mix of Moorish and Renaissance architecture then take the vintage train to charming Sóller with its nearby port and beaches. In Menorca, enjoy some more secluded and scenic beaches such as Cala Pilar and Cala Trebalúger. If you prefer an even more remote and tranquil feel, head to the picturesque Formentera. Last but not least, there’s Ibiza, which mixes bohemian charm with white sandy beaches. Check out our guide to find out which island is right for you.

With temperatures ranging between 12°C and 29°C throughout March, April, and May, spring is the perfect time to take a group excursion into the desert, hike the Atlas Mountains, laze around on the Taghazout coastline or surf in Essaouira. In Marrakech, hunt for souvenir bargains in narrow souk streets or grab a bite at one of the food stalls in Djemaa El Fna, the ultimate place for foodies. In Tangier, the palace of Dar el Makhzen is home to the fascinating Kasbah Museum of Mediterranean Cultures. To really soak up the Moorish mood, why not stay in a traditional riad built around a flower-filled courtyard?