NH Hotel Group has revealed some of Europe's most intriguing spring breaks, with a a centuries-old folk festival in Frankfurt, a Japanese-inspired floral celebration in Copenhagen, tulips that are fit-for-a-king in Amsterdam and classical music greats in Prague among the options.
Frankfurt – Ancient folk festivities: Frankfurt's spring traditions include Dippemess, the region's largest and oldest folk festival which is open until 14 April and takes its name from a 14th-century pottery market, although today's version features thrilling rides and traditional food and beer. Spring also sees the start of Frankfurt's Grie Soß (Green Sauce) season, with the local speciality made from seven specific herbs and served with eggs and potatoes. Another favourite is Spargel, a white asparagus that is grown underground and served with butter and ham.
Where to stay: nhow Frankfurt is a 375-room lifestyle hotel located across 14 floors of the 47-floor ONE Tower by CA Immo. Located in the city's financial district, the hotel features inspiring spaces, bold design, and jaw-dropping views, with bedroom walls and ceilings decorated in pop-art-style banknotes. Highlights include the NFT Skybar and Restaurant, Germany's highest rooftop bar, a golden staircase inspired by falling coins in the lobby, and a spa area with two saunas and a fitness room.
Copenhagen – A floral escape: A highlight of Copenhagen's spring celebrations is the Sakura Festival at Langelinie Park (20-21 April), where visitors can enjoy Japanese culture amid 200 blooming cherry blossom trees. The warmer weather at this time of year also encourages cruises on the city's canals, with a wide range of traditional tour boats, solar-powered vessels, and kayaks to choose from. Copenhagen's harbour waters are clean enough to swim in, with locals taking the plunge at Nordhavn or Islands Brygge, one of Copenhagen's most popular public spaces.
Where to stay: NH Collection Copenhagen's new ROOF – Bar & Lounge opens in spring 2024 and is Copenhagen's first rooftop bar, offering some of the city's most remarkable views. The hotel is one of the few five-star properties in the capital and has a stunning waterfront setting at the entrance of the lively Christianshavn district.
Amsterdam – Royal celebrations and famous tulips: Amsterdam is alive with colour in spring. The famous tulip fields on the outskirts are at their brightly coloured best, and throughout April flowering tulips are on display at more than 85 locations across the city centre. Travel over Koningsdag (King's Day) on 27 April, to join in with the citywide boat and street parties that paint the town in shades of orange.
Where to stay: Luxurious five-star NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace is located in the heart of the city's old quarter. Beautifully converted from several 17th-century townhouses and a 15th-century chapel, the hotel has its own canal-side boating dock. Guests can relax with a nightcap or bite to eat in the cosy Bottles & Jars Bar or enjoy the haute cuisine of Chef Tjaco van Eijken in the Vermeer Restaurant.
Prague – Blissful sounds and delicious eats: Prague is packed with attractions through the spring season. The Prague Spring Music Festival (12 May to 3 June) showcases world-class orchestras and soloists in stunning venues, while food fans are in for a treat with weekly food events and markets at the Náplavka embankment.
Where to stay: Conveniently located a short walking distance from Old Town Square, visitors will find the five-star NH Collection Prague Carlo IV perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. The elegant rooms are contemporary styled, and guests can relax in the wellness spa, one of the city's biggest. The wood-clad Vault Bar serves cocktails to savour, and the 1890 restaurant features Czech traditional delicacies.
