Signs of spring around the world

Spring arrives in different ways across the world, bringing subtle yet remarkable changes to landscapes, wildlife and local traditions. In some places, the season is marked by the first delicate flowers appearing, while in others it signals the return of migratory wildlife or spectacular natural events that draw visitors from far and wide. From snowdrops and daffodils that brighten the British countryside to the famous tulip fields of the Netherlands, spring reveals itself through a variety of unforgettable sights. Here, we detail some of the most beautiful and fascinating signs of spring around the world. 

For many, there’s nothing quite like the arrival of spring across the British Isles. As the days slowly start to feel longer and brighter, a quiet sense of hope and anticipation begins to fill the air. Even in the depths of winter, you may notice subtle signs that spring is on the way as snowdrops push through the cold earth in January and February. The arrival of this delicate white flower is soon followed by the cheerful bloom of daffodils in February and March. Soon, roadsides, parks and gardens are filled with their golden colour, creating one of the most recognisable signs that spring has arrived, while lambs can be spotted happily grazing in the countryside fields and blue skies return. 

Every year, visitors from across the globe flock to the Netherlands to witness the remarkable tulip season, which coincides with the arrival of spring. Many choose to visit the country’s vast tulip fields, which can be explored by bicycle or on guided tours. Others head to the Amsterdam Tulip Festival, where colourful blooms appear in public spaces throughout the city. The history of tulips in the Netherlands is fascinating. Despite the country's close association with them, tulips are not actually native to the Netherlands. They originated in Central Asia and were introduced to Europe in the 16th century. The flowers quickly caught the attention of Dutch botanists and collectors, and by the early 17th century, the Netherlands had become the centre of tulip cultivation. During the Dutch Golden Age, a period known as Tulip Mania reached its peak in the 1630s, when a single rare tulip bulb could cost more than a house in Amsterdam. Tulips thrive in the Netherlands thanks to the country’s ideal growing conditions, which allow the flowers to flourish. Over time, Dutch growers developed thousands of tulip varieties, and the flower has since become a recurring symbol in Dutch art, culture and design. 

Visiting Japan in spring is a truly remarkable experience, and one that sits firmly at the top of many travellers’ bucket lists. Delicate pink sakura bursts into bloom across the country for a short but spectacular period, signalling the change in season. These blossoms typically start appearing in the warmer southern regions in late March before gradually moving north, creating a wave of colour that spreads across the country. Late April and early May bring the busy ‘Golden Week’ holidays, when many locals take time off to travel and enjoy the spring weather. A key part of spring in Japan is hanami, the centuries-old tradition of flower viewing. During this time, locals gather under the sakura or plum trees in parks and temple grounds to celebrate and welcome in the new season. Friends, families and colleagues spread out on picnic blankets to enjoy food, drinks, and quality time, while admiring the beauty of the blossoms. Beyond the famous cherry blossoms, spring in Japan is also a time when gardens and landscapes burst into life with colourful flowers such as wisteria, tulips and azaleas. 

Spring in Iceland stretched from March to May, bringing a dramatic transformation to the country’s rugged landscapes. The season introduces more daylight hours, thawing glaciers, and a mix of snow, sunshine and crisp air. For wildlife lovers, spring also marks the return of one of Iceland’s most beloved animals, the puffin. From May to mid-August, thousands of puffins return from the open ocean to nest along the cliffs. Often affectionately referred to as the ‘clowns of the sea’, puffins are instantly recognisable by their colourful parrot-like beaks, bright orange feet and distinctive waddling walk. Locally known as ‘Lundi’, which is the Icelandic word for puffin, these charming seabirds are a highlight for visitors exploring Iceland. 

Spring in Canada means a shift in wildlife activity as the country’s wilderness emerges from winter’s icy grip. As snow gradually melts and temperatures begin to rise, forests, valleys, and mountains come back to life, with fresh greenery and wildflowers appearing. One of the most fascinating seasonal changes is the emergence of bears from hibernation. Between late March and mid-May, black and grizzly bears emerge from their dens after spending several months in winter dormancy. Having survived the winter on stored body fat, bears immediately begin searching for food to replenish their energy reserves. They often travel to lower elevations and valley bottoms where the first fresh vegetation appears. May is also a particularly important time for grizzly bears, as it marks the beginning of their peak mating season. Females that gave birth during winter hibernation may also be seen travelling with their new cubs, which are commonly born as twins. These young cubs stay close to their mothers as they learn to navigate the wilderness, offering rare and unforgettable sightings for visitors exploring Canada’s national parks.

Across North America, the arrival of spring is marked by warmer temperatures, blooming wildflowers and the return of migratory birds. During this season, many bird species that migrated south for the winter begin their long journeys back to their breeding grounds across the United States. Among the most commonly spotted spring arrivals are the Red-winged Blackbird, American Robin, Killdeer, Tree Swallow and Eastern Phoebe. These birds are often seen gathering near wetlands, farmlands and woodlands as they search for food and suitable nesting areas. One of the most noticeable signals that spring has arrived is the increase in birdsong. Species such as robins and blackbirds sing loudly during the early mornings to establish territory and attract potential mates. This chorus of birdsong becomes one of the most recognisable sounds of the season. Birds are often seen collecting twigs, grasses, and other materials to build their nests. With migration in full swing and wildlife activity at its peak, spring is widely considered one of the best times of year for birdwatchers, ornithologists and nature photographers to explore North America’s diverse landscapes.

Spring is one of the most exciting times to experience marine wildlife in Portugal, particularly in the Azores. Thanks to the region’s deep ocean waters and unique position along major migration routes, the Azores are considered one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. During the spring months, the surrounding waters become an important passage for several species of large baleen whales as they travel through the Atlantic. April and May offer some of the best opportunities to see magnificent giants such as blue, fin, and sei whales. Alongside these migrating species, the Azores are also home to resident sperm whales, which can often be spotted throughout the year. Visitors frequently encounter pods of dolphins, including common and bottlenose dolphins, which are known for their playful behaviour and often swim alongside boats.