Easter weekend is one of the most underrated times for a quick culinary getaway. Spring produce is arriving, restaurants are rolling out seasonal brunch menus, and cities across the world bring back festivals, pop-ups, and local markets designed for grazing. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly trip or a foodie escape for two, Easter offers a perfect excuse to explore somewhere new and eat very, very well.
Below are nine Easter city break ideas that blend culture, cuisine, and a celebratory spring atmosphere.
1. Stock Up on Treats Before You Go
Before we dive into destinations, here’s one smart pre-trip tip: consider ordering your festive treats ahead of time so you can pack a small gift, enjoy hotel-room snacking, or build a spring picnic kit. Many travelers like to bring seasonal sweets along for hosts or kids.
A great place to start is Purdys Easter Chocolates, which offers a wide collection ideal for gifting or enjoying on your trip.
2. Toronto: Weekend Market Hopping
Toronto comes alive in early spring, and its multicultural food scene makes Easter weekend especially vibrant. Visit St. Lawrence Market or Kensington Market for fresh pastries, global snacks, and seasonal produce. Pair your market stroll with a waterfront walk or a bakery crawl through Little Italy and Queen West.
Top picks include:
- Easter pop-up stalls featuring local chocolates
- Portuguese custard tarts from neighborhood bakeries
- Craft coffee shops with limited-edition spring drinks
3. Portland: Brunch Capital of the Pacific Northwest
If brunch is your love language, Portland delivers. Easter Sunday sees restaurants offering inventive menus featuring farm eggs, foraged greens, and buttery pastries. Book early, as locals take brunch seriously.
Don’t miss the spring-flower arrangements at local cafes, perfect for relaxed mornings before exploring the city’s indie shops and food carts.
4. New Orleans: Seasonal Flavors With a Festive Spirit
Easter in New Orleans is a spectacle of color and flavor. Indulge in pralines, seafood feasts, crawfish boils, and bakery specials inspired by local traditions. Many restaurants host prix-fixe brunches, and the French Quarter treats visitors to parades and live music.
Must-try experiences:
- Beignets and chicory coffee
- Historic food tours through the Quarter
- A picnic in City Park surrounded by blooming azaleas
5. London: Chocolate Tastings and Cozy Cafés
London always does Easter well. From Borough Market’s artisan stalls to Notting Hill’s pastel-front cafés, there’s no shortage of indulgence. Many chocolatiers host tastings, and families can enjoy egg hunts at major museums and gardens.
Consider a themed afternoon tea in Soho or Covent Garden for a luxurious seasonal touch.
6. Barcelona: Street Foods and Spring Picnics
Barcelona blends sunshine, seafood, and sweet Easter traditions. Local bakeries offer mona de Pasqua, a festive cake topped with chocolate eggs. Pick up cheeses, charcuterie, and pastries from La Boqueria, then head to Parc de la Ciutadella for a relaxed picnic.
7. Montreal: Bakery Crawls and Maple Treats
Montreal’s European charm pairs well with an Easter escape. Its bakeries shine this time of year, offering hot cross buns, fruit pastries, and maple-infused desserts. Food lovers can join guided tours through Mile End or Old Montreal to sample local favorites.
8. Vienna: Church-Adjacent Cafés and Easter Markets
Vienna’s Easter markets are a dream for anyone who loves handcrafted goods and traditional sweets. After visiting iconic churches or museums, slip into a nearby café for strudel, sachertorte, and seasonal pastries.
9. Chicago: Family Egg Hunts and Museum Food Tours
Chicago blends family fun with big-city dining. Many museums host Easter egg hunts, and the city’s food halls and neighborhoods offer everything from gourmet doughnuts to street-food pop-ups. Don’t miss the riverfront patios reopening for spring.
Final Thoughts
No matter which destination you choose, Easter travel is all about savoring fresh flavors, discovering new neighborhoods, and making the most of seasonal traditions. With a little planning and a few festive treats in your bag, you can turn a simple weekend trip into a delicious spring celebration.
By Gregory O'NeillGreg is a modern-day explorer with an insatiable love for travel. His passion for adventure has led him to far-flung corners of the world, where he immerses himself in diverse cultures and experiences. Greg's zest for life is epitomized by a continuous pursuit of new horizons and captivating journeys.
