Last Minute Easter Holiday Ideas - City Break in Paris

From our Dover to Calais ferry crossing, it’s only a hop skip and a jump to the French capital of Paris. Perfect for Easter family breaks, this city is home to every child’s dream destination, Disneyland and is always a hit when planning a last minute Easter break.

Enjoy exploring this fairy-tale paradise, riding the famous roller coasters and watching the thrilling night-time show where fireworks and lasers illuminate the Sleeping Beauty Castle. Alternatively, participate in the city-wide Easter egg hunts in Paris’ many parks and take home some gourmet chocolate for an enchanting trip your kids will never forget. With plenty of things to do in Paris at Easter, it makes it a perfect location for a last minute Easter holiday.

Skiing in Chamonix

There’s a common misconception that snowfall is far from certain in the French Alps around Easter, but typically there’s a fantastic level of coverage during this time with the season usually ending in late April. Skiing holidays in France are always fun and enjoyable but a skiing holiday during Easter also adds an extra level of fun and excitement to the trip.

The charming resort of Chamonix in particular has plenty of pistes over 2000m, so last minute ski holidays in Easter usually offer excellent conditions, making it one of the most active last minute Easter breaks in Europe.

Experience the delights of sunny powder skiing across this resort’s array of exciting runs, with a good chance of a great bargain on a late season and last minute Easter holiday deal.

Last Minute Easter Holiday Destinations - Seaside Resort Ostend

Just over an hour’s drive from the port of Calais, the coastal city of Ostend boasts over five-and-a-half miles of gorgeous sandy beaches. There is no need to worry about booking your Easter holiday last minute as on Easter Monday, it plays host to the vibrant SpringTij Ostend Festival, where you can enjoy a wide variety of activities tailored to families including chocolate painting, art fairs, treasure hunts and creative workshops.

For culture, you can head to the Mu.ZEE art museum to see work by the famous Ostend resident James Ensor, or simply indulge in some retail therapy with a visit to the Groentenmarkt open air market on either Thursday or Saturday morning. Whatever you prefer to do on a short break away, Ostend offers a variety of things to do that you still can do even if it is a last minute holiday during the Easter season.

Last Minute Easter Breaks - Amsterdam City Break

The capital of the Netherlands is always a great option for European city breaks. Explore Amsterdam‘s world-famous Rijksmuseum for a glimpse into Dutch culture, get cosy in one of the traditional brown cafes where you can sample local delicacies like deep fried bitterballen, a breadcrumb coated ball of tasty meat ragu, or enjoy a scenic cycle ride to the Zaanse Schans windmills located just 15 minutes outside the city. Amsterdam is always a busy city supplying tourists with lots to do everyday and even when you book a last minute Easter trip that is still the case.

Late March is also when the internationally renowned Keukenhof Gardens officially open, a celebration of the country’s spectacular tulip-growing culture. Under an hour from Amsterdam, visitors can wander through a magical, fragrant landscape of endless tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. Exploring these gardens are a definite must for the whole family to see when you book a last minute Easter holiday in the Netherlands.

If you feel inspired to head off on one of these last minute Easter breaks in Europe, book your ferry crossing today and start planning your egg-citing trip! Make it a last minute luxury Easter holiday by booking onto our Club Lounge and start your Easter break in style.

FAQs:

1. Where to go in Europe at the last minute at Easter?

If you're planning a last-minute Easter getaway, consider destinations that are easily accessible and offer festive activities. Paris is always a great choice for its iconic landmarks, Easter markets, and cultural events. Amsterdam with its famous tulip festivals, is another wonderful option. If you want to stay closer to nature, Provence or the French Riviera offers scenic landscapes and charming towns perfect for an Easter escape. Regardless of whether you plan to go to France or Amsterdam, P&O Ferries makes it easy to travel especially around peak seasons like Easter. Our Fully-Flexi Standard ticket allows you to travel at any departure time that suits you. So, don’t hesitate to book your Easter ferry to Europe today.

2. What should I pack for a last minute easter holiday in Europe?

When packing for a last-minute Easter holiday, keep it simple and versatile. But don’t worry if you forget some of the essentials our onboard shopping has got you covered. Here are some essentials that will get sorted for your last minute easter holiday to Europe:

1. Comfortable Walking Shoes: For exploring cities and sightseeing.

2. Layered Clothing: A mix of light layers for daytime and a jacket for cooler evenings, as spring weather can be unpredictable.

3. Easter-Ready Attire: A smart outfit for any festive dinners or local Easter events.

4. Sun Protection: Sunglasses and sunscreen for outdoor activities.

5. Essentials: Travel documents, chargers, a reusable water bottle, and a small daypack for excursions.

6. Special Items: If you’re attending church services or specific cultural events, pack accordingly (modest clothing, for example).