Best cherry blossom destinations in Europe

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Cherry blossoms might be most associated with Asia, but a handful of European cities put on a spring show that rivals it on a smaller scale.

Western Europe has some of the best known blossom spots, often thanks to trees planted decades ago along riverbanks, parks and old university grounds that turn pink for a few weeks each spring. Southern Europe tends to see blooms a little earlier in the season, while cooler northern areas catch up several weeks later, giving travelers more flexibility on timing than in some other regions. A number of cities now hold small festivals or events tied to the bloom, though nothing on the scale of the traditions found further east.

Bloom windows are short and shift a little each year, so checking recent updates before booking is worth doing. The destinations on our list for Europe bring together well loved blossom spots with a few quieter corners just as worth the trip.