Celebrate Easter Abroad: Top Destinations to Visit

Easter is a time for new beginnings and what better way to celebrate than by exploring a new destination? Whether you're looking to escape the traditional Easter egg hunt or simply want to experience a different culture's Easter celebrations, traveling abroad can be a great way to make the most of the holiday season.

In this blog, we'll be sharing some of the top destinations to visit during Easter, all of which offer unique experiences and unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags, grab your mobile phone, purchase the Nomad eSIM data plan, and get ready for an Easter adventure like no other! Here are the destinations we’ll talk about in our Easter travel guide:

• Cyprus
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Marinduque, Philippines
• Seville, Spain
• Crete, Greece
• Paris, France

Cyprus

If you love warm weather and beaches, Cyprus is definitely a good choice for your spring trip! The island country has a rich religious and cultural history that is celebrated during Easter. The week leading up to Easter Sunday, known as Holy Week, is a particularly important time for Cypriots, and many traditions and celebrations take place throughout the country.

One of the most notable Easter celebrations in Cyprus is the Candle Procession, which takes place on Good Friday in many towns and villages across the country. This procession involves the faithful carrying candles and walking through the streets, symbolizing the mourning for Jesus Christ's death.

Another important tradition during Holy Week in Cyprus is the preparation of flaounes, a traditional pastry made with cheese, raisins, and spices. These pastries are typically eaten on Easter Sunday and are a beloved part of the holiday.

Aside from the Easter celebrations, Cyprus has much to offer its visitors. You can explore the historic city of Nicosia, with its picturesque old town and ancient Venetian walls. Don’t miss a chance to relax on the beautiful beaches of Limassolor take a dip in the warm waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

For nature lovers, Cyprus has some stunning landscapes to explore, including the Troodos Mountains, home to beautiful hiking trails and traditional villages. You can also visit the stunning Blue Lagoon, a natural pool of crystal-clear water located off the coast of the Akamas Peninsula. You can find about more how to visit the Blue Lagoon here.

Lisbon, Portugal

As the days start getting longer and the weather warms up, Lisbon comes alive with a unique blend of Easter traditions and springtime charm. Lisbon is known for its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a diverse and immersive experience.

Easter is an especially exciting time to visit Lisbon, with several cultural and religious events taking place throughout the city. Visitors can witness elaborate processions, such as the "Procissão do Senhor dos Passos," a solemn parade of mourners carrying statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary, which takes place on Good Friday. Other Easter festivities include "Festa da Flor" (Flower Festival), a colorful celebration where locals decorate the city with floral arrangements and carpets made from flower petals.

As springtime approaches, Lisbon's parks and gardens come to life with a riot of colors and fragrances. One of the most famous parks is the Jardim da Estrela, a lush green oasis in the heart of the city, complete with a duck pond, exotic plants, and a playground for kids. The botanical gardens, Jardim Botânico da Ajuda, are also a must-visit for nature lovers, with over 5000 species of plants and flowers from all over the world.

When it comes to food, Lisbon is a paradise for seafood lovers, with an abundance of fresh fish and seafood dishes to try, such as grilled sardines, octopus salad, and codfish fritters. And, of course, no visit to Lisbon is complete without indulging in the iconic pastel de nata, a delicious custard tart that originated in the city's famous Pasteis de Belem bakery!

With Nomad eSIM, staying connected during your Easter and springtime adventures in Lisbon is easy. Share your experiences and stay in touch with your loved ones back home.

Marinduque, Philippines

The Holy Week is a very significant observance in the Philippines, and local tourism is at its peak during this time. Most of the locals will flock to the beautiful beaches of Boracay and Palawan, and it tends to be packed. If you are looking for a tropical getaway but want to skip the massive crowds, Marinduque is a great alternative.

The most popular festival in the island of Marinduque is the Moriones Festival that takes place through the Holy Week. The Moriones Festival is a week-long celebration where we see participants parading around town in the trademark Moriones costumes.

The festival is named after the 17th-century Spanish Morion helmet. The festival is centred around the story of Saint Longinus, a Roman centurion who was blind in one eye, but was miraculously cured by the blood of Jesus Christ after he speared his side. On Good Friday, the story of Longinus will be reenacted during the festival.

After the Moriones Festival, you can visit the town of Gasan to experience the Gasang-Gasang Festival that happens on Easter Sunday. The festival is a very colourful event which features a live dance competition along the streets of Gasan.

For more beach and nature, Marinduque also has a lot to offer. You can visit the Poctoy White Beach, explore the Maniwaya Island, or go island hopping at the Tres Reyes Islands. You can also hike up Mount Manabu for a beautiful view of the sunset.

Seville, Spain

Traveling to Seville for Easter can be an unforgettable experience, as this city is known for its vibrant and passionate celebration of Semana Santa(Holy Week). Semana Santa is a week-long event that takes place in the lead-up to Easter Sunday and is characterized by processions, music, and religious observances.

During Semana Santa in Seville, the streets come alive with colorful processions of religious brotherhoods or "cofradías", which carry large floats or "pasos" depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ. The floats are often adorned with flowers and candles and are carried through the streets by groups of men known as "costaleros", who support the weight of the float on their shoulders.

The origin of the Holy Week processions in Seville date back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries, when Cardinal Fernando Niño de Guevara decreed in 1604 that the brotherhoods go to the Cathedral to serve as a penance station. Previously, the brotherhoods made a station in various temples or convents.

The atmosphere during Semana Santa in Seville is electric, with thousands of people lining the streets to watch the processions and join in the festivities. You can hear the sound of drums and trumpets everywhere!

In addition to the processions, there are also many other cultural and religious events taking place during Semana Santa in Seville, such as concerts, art exhibitions, and religious ceremonies. You should be prepared for large crowds and be aware of the schedule of processions, which can affect transportation and access to certain parts of the city.

Traveling to Seville for Easter is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a fascinating insight into the city's rich cultural and religious heritage. Whether you're a devout Catholic or simply interested in experiencing a different culture and tradition, Semana Santa in Seville is an event not to be missed.

Crete, Greece

Crete is the largest island in Greece, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and delicious food. Easter is an important holiday in Greece, with many traditions and celebrations taking place throughout the country.

During Easter in Crete, you can expect to see many customs and traditions that are unique to the island. One of the most significant events is the Epitaph procession, where the church carries a symbolic representation of Christ's tomb through the streets. This is typically held on Good Friday and is a somber yet beautiful event to witness!

The island is home to numerous historical sites, such as the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, which is believed to be one of the oldest civilizations in Europe. You can also visit the Venetian harbor in Chania, which is lined with colorful buildings and narrow streets, offering a glimpse into the island's rich history.

Crete is also known for its stunning beaches, such as Elafonisi and Balos, which offer crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands. You can also explore the Samaria Gorge, which is one of the longest gorges in Europe and is home to numerous rare plant species and wildlife.

If you're a foodie, then Crete will not disappoint you! The island's cuisine is known for its freshness and simplicity, with traditional dishes such as dakos (a Cretan version of bruschetta), kalitsounia (a type of savory pie), and boureki (a dish made with vegetables and cheese).

Paris, France

Are you considering traveling to Paris for Easter? It's a wonderful time to visit this city of lights and experience the rich traditions and celebrations that take place throughout the country. Like Audrey Hepburn once said: “Paris is always a good idea!”

One of the highlights of Easter in Paris is the grand procession at Notre Dame Cathedral. It's a sight to behold, with the Archbishop of Paris leading a parade of priests, choir singers, and altar boys, while incense fills the air. It's a cherished tradition in the city and a truly spectacular event to witness.

Aside from the Easter celebrations, Paris has so much to offer. You can spend hours exploring the Louvre Museum and admiring the works of some of the world's most famous artists, or take a stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries and soak up the beauty of this tranquil park.

Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of the city. You can also enjoy a walk along the Champs-Élysées, with its designer shops, theaters, and cafes, or climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for a breathtaking view of the city.

When it comes to food, Paris is a true gastronomic paradise, with delicious French pastries, cheeses, and wines to savor. From classic croissants and café au lait to Michelin-starred restaurants, there's something for every taste and budget.