What to Pack for Europe in Spring
Later in this post I share a few affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you click on them and make a purchase, at no cost to you. I really appreciate your support!
SPRING IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE TIMES TO VISIT EUROPE.
The cherry blossoms are blooming in Paris, the terraces are reopening in Rome, and the tourist crowds haven’t yet reached their summer peak.
But spring weather in Europe?
It can be unpredictable at best.
Depending on where you’re going, you might experience three seasons in a single day.
Chilly mornings, sunny afternoons, and sudden evening downpours are common, as is the occasional early heat wave.
SO WHAT SHOULD YOU PACK FOR A SPRING TRIP TO EUROPE?
Smart layers, comfortable footwear, and versatile pieces you can wear again and again.
Here’s exactly what to bring along — your complete packing list for Europe in spring.
What to Pack for Europe in Spring
Clothing to Pack for Europe in Spring
Midi dresses or skirts
Lightweight sweaters or cardigans
Jeans or trousers
Neutral t-shirt for layering
Long sleeve tops
Classic button-down shirt
Silk blouse
Lightweight scarf or pashmina
Wool blazer
Pajamas and undergarments
PACKING FOR SPRING IN EUROPE IS ALL ABOUT BALANCE.
You want to be warm enough for crisp mornings, but not sweating through your outfit by lunch.
I always pack a pair of jeans or trousers as a foundation for multiple outfits.
I pair them with a white button-down shirt for a classic look, or a silk blouse for a more elevated appearance.
Depending on the weather, I may add a lightweight cardigan or a wool blazer, too.
Dresses or midi-skirt outfits are another favorite of mine because they take up less room in your suitcase and can be worn to a nice dinner or with sneakers for a day of exploring.
I TEND TO PACK ONE NEUTRAL MIDI DRESS AND ONE THAT’S PATTERNED WITH EITHER FLORALS OR STRIPES.
Sweaters can definitely have a place in your spring wardrobe, just be sure they’re lightweight knits like cashmere or merino wool, both of which offer warmth without bulk.
The best thing about outfits that include layers for cooler mornings is that as soon as the weather becomes warmer, you can adjust to the temperature by removing a layer - without racing back to the hotel to change.
All bundled up in layers on a cold May morning while walking through Montmartre in Paris.
And later that same days, playing around on the Colonnes de Buren at the Palais Royal.
Pack a lightweight scarf, too, just in case it’s extra cool.
MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE ARE THE HERMES 140 SHAWLS, MADE FROM A BLEND OF CASHMERE AND SILK THAT FEELS HEAVENLY ON THE SKIN, WITH ENOUGH MASS TO KEEP YOU WARM.
You can also opt for a smaller silk scarf to protect from the wind.
Don’t be afraid if scarves aren’t a regular part of your wardrobe - this is appropriate clothing for European travel that you’ll see everyone wearing once you arrive.
Shoes to Pack for Spring in Europe
Colorful sneakers
Ballet flats or loafers
Waterproof ankle boots
Flat sandals or espadrilles
Visiting Europe in the spring will probably include a lot of walking — and usually some rain.
Colorful sneakers are my go-to for daytime exploring, and they’re so on-trend right now.
THESE ARE BEST FOR DAYS WHEN YOU’LL BE DOING A TON OF WALKING.
I also pack a pair of loafers or ballet flats, which I’ll wear to dinner or museum days where I want to look a little more polished.
IF THE FORECAST LOOKS RAINY, MAKE ROOM IN YOUR SUITCASE FOR A PAIR OF ANKLE BOOTS.
Something waterproof is ideal, but anything stylish enough for museum hopping in Vienna or outdoor market browsing in Amsterdam will suffice.
For warmer destinations like Spain or the south of France, a simple pair of flat sandals is nice to have, too, especially for a warm afternoon aperitivo.
Leave the heels at home, along with any other pairs that give you blisters or make you regret your purchase.
COMFORTABLE, STYLISH FOOTWEAR IS THE UNSUNG HERO OF ANY TRAVEL OUTFIT FOR EUROPE.
Spring Jackets & Outerwear
Trench coat
Rain jacket
Wool blazer
IS THE TRENCH COAT THE ULTIMATE SPRING TRAVEL JACKET?
At the moment, I would have to say yes - it’s a piece common all across Europe right now, due in part to its ability to be dressed up or down.
Trench coats look polished, layer easily, and offer some protection if it starts to drizzle.
Opt for lightweight versions in gabardine or poplin.
Trench coats are the perfect jacket for spring, especially in Europe.
Bring a rain jacket if you’re traveling to Northern European destinations like the UK or the Nordics, where rain is more frequent.
Packable, sporty rain jackets are good, but I have a soft spot for classic fashion versions like the Barbour Beadnell.
And don’t forget a compact travel umbrella — mine has saved me from sudden rainstorms too many times to count.
The important thing about packing outerwear pieces for Europe in the spring is choosing maximum warmth and rain protection from the lightest possible jacket.
DO YOU NEED MORE THAN ONE JACKET?
Probably not, so long as you’ve also packed warm layers and are carrying an umbrella.
Accessories for Spring Travel
Crossbody bag
Small backpack
Lightweight scarf or pashmina
Sunglasses
Travel umbrella
Packing cubes
Travel jewelry box
Accessories are what make an outfit come to life, but you don’t need too many when traveling.
A crossbody bag is my daily go-to — it feels secure from pickpockets and keeps my hands free.
IF I’M PLANNING A LONG WALKING DAY, I’LL USE A SMALL BACKPACK INSTEAD.
I just got the new version of the Longchamp Le Pliage backpack, with the pointed top corners, and I really love it!
I don’t always use packing cubes, and I think in some cases they actually promote overpacking, but I do find them useful when I’m packing layers like sweaters and cardigans.
Don’t forget an umbrella, either, as rain showers can strike at any moment in the spring.
A leather jewelry case or watch roll is also a good idea if you travel with precious accessories.
And don’t forget sunglasses!
EVEN THOUGH SPRING CAN BRING CLOUDY DAYS, YOU’D BE SURPRISED AT HOW MANY TIMES YOU’LL NEED THOSE SUNNIES IN APRIL OR MAY.
These little details make it easier to style your Europe travel outfits on the go.
(Psst, I also wrote a post on all the international travel essentials, like power adapters and eSIMs, that you should be sure to pack. Read it here.)
Spring Skincare
Daily moisturizer with SPF
Lip balm with SPF
Hydrating serum or face mist
Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
Razor, deodorant, toothbrush
Any daily makeup products
Allergy medication
THE SUN ISN’T YET AT ITS PEAK IN SPRING, BUT IT’S STILL IMPORTANT TO PACK SUN PROTECTION.
I also double down on hydration since travel and changing weather can leave my skin dry.
My routine is simple: a good moisturizer with SPF, a hydrating serum, and a little makeup for daytime polish.
At the moment, that makeup includes gliding Charlotte Tilbury’s Unreal Skin stick foundation across my skin, dabbing on a bit of concealer, blush, and bronzer, and then finishing with mascara.
And no matter the season, I always pack lip balm with SPF.
YOU’D BE SURPRISED HOW STRONG THE SUN CAN FEEL ON A ROOFTOP BAR IN LISBON OR AN OUTDOOR PATIO IN MADRID.
Springtime in Europe brings blooming flowers, yes, but it can sometimes bring allergies, too.
If you’re susceptible to pollen, always pack your go-to allergy meds, just in case.
Packing Tips for Spring in Europe
Stick to a neutral color palette for mixing and matching
Build outfits around layering pieces
Use packing cubes to compress sweaters and cardigans
Leave bulky items at home
PACKING LIGHT IS NON-NEGOTIABLE FOR ME, THOUGH IT TOOK ME YEARS TO FIGURE THIS OUT. 😆
This approach has shaped my entire Europe packing list spring strategy.
European streets often mean cobblestones and stairs, and hotels here often have tiny, old elevators, if they have an elevator at all.
Do yourself a favor and try not to overpack.
I try to create a mini capsule wardrobe for each trip — things that mix and match easily, can be layered, and that I actually like wearing.
I only bring two to three pairs of shoes, and I avoid anything I wouldn’t walk 10,000 steps in.
UNLESS YOU’RE HEADING TO THE ALPS, YOU CAN LEAVE THE HEAVY OUTERWEAR BEHIND.
I’ve never once needed snow boots in April, and high heels rarely earn their keep.
Stick with pieces that can flex for different activities, like museums, dinners, walking tours.
You’ll have a lighter suitcase and less “what should I wear today” decision fatigue.
Conclusion
SPRING IS AN AMAZING TIME TO VISIT EUROPE!
And with the right clothing for travel to Europe, it’s also surprisingly easy to dress for.
Bring your layers, your warmest lightweight jacket, and your most walkable shoes.
Stay flexible, pack smart, and leave a little room in your suitcase for something you didn’t expect to fall in love with.
Whether you're building travel outfits for spring, planning your Europe trip outfits, or trying to figure out how to dress for Europe, I hope this spring Europe packing list helps you feel more prepared for the adventure ahead. ♥️
Until next time,
Angela
PLANNING A VACATION?
When you book through my links, you help support the site — at no extra cost to you.
Thanks for being a part of the Notes From Here journey! ❤️
💃 Book Tours and Experiences with Viator
🛎️ Find Hotels with Booking.com
🚗 Find a Rental Car with Discover Cars
🛡️ Get Travel Insurance with SafetyWing
🚄 Book a Train or Bus with Omio