Best 5 Places to Witness the Glory of Springtime Flowers Across Europe
When spring arrives in Europe, cities transform into kaleidoscopes of color and the air fills with floral fragrances. Warm days melt into balmy nights as blooms burst forth to brighten even the plainest streets. For those seeking the full splendor of spring, here are five of the best places to take in stunning floral displays.
Ludwigsburg's Blooming Baroque, Germany
Since 1954, the sprawling 30-hectare gardens of Ludwigsburg's 18th-century Residenzschloss palace have hosted this popular spring show. Visitors exploring the grounds from March to November are treated to aviaries, oriental gardens, fairytale scenes, and Rapunzel's tower, all complemented by vibrant displays of seasonal blossoms.
Keukenhof Gardens, The Netherlands
With over 800 varieties across 32 acres, Keukenhof is the world's largest flower garden. From late March to mid-May, wave after wave of tulips in every hue explode in patterns across the grounds. After wandering this floral wonderland, hire a bike and pedal past endless postcard-perfect rows.
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Cordoba's Festival of the Patios, Spain
For two weeks each May, this UNESCO-listed event transforms Cordoba into an open-air museum of elaborately decorated private courtyards, many dating back to Roman times. Fountains, plants, music, and of course flowers turn these sun-shaded patios into cool, colorful oases as owners compete for the city's best patio award.
Girona's Temps de Flors, Spain
Each May, Girona's medieval quarter becomes a living art gallery as installations and sculptures adorned with flower carpets bloom across the city center. The splendid floral displays infuse Girona with springtime scents to delight visitors attending the parallel Girona A Cappella music festival.
London's Chelsea Flower Show
Gardening enthusiasts flock to this quintessentially British event held annually in the grounds of London's Royal Hospital Chelsea. For five days each May, world-class designers unveil stunning thematic gardens and exhibits, which earn the royal seal of approval before opening to the public. Overflowing with flowers, Chelsea is floral heaven.