Avoid those April showers

Easter is fast approaching so here's a round-up of where's hot for an early getaway.

- BY JULIE DELAHAYE

We're entering the last few weeks of winter, which means that before we know it, there'll be plenty of destinations where the weather starts to get hot and sunny.

If you're considering booking a getaway to warmer climates for the Easter holidays, you're in luck - there are plenty of European hotspots enjoying balmier temperatures at that time including Spain, Portugal and Croatia.

To give you a helping hand, we've put together a guide to the best destinations for April. Check out our top picks...

PORTUGAL

With temperatures around 21C in April, it can be a great time to explore some of Portugal's most breathtaking spots.

Head to the Algarve for those spectacular golden beaches - it may not be warm enough to take a dip in the sea, but it's pleasant enough to wander along the coastal trails, or enjoy a round of golf at one of its many resorts.

Prefer a city break? Head to Lisbon if you're after heaps of great food and nightlife, while Porto is a little laidback but offers up some eye-catching attractions including the world's most beautiful McDonald's.

CROATIA

With temperatures around 18C in April, it can be an ideal time to explore some of Croatia's breathtaking cities, with Dubrovnik and Split both offering up beautiful old towns, heaps of history, and brilliant food scenes.