April is a great month to visit Central Europe and the Czech Republic. Spring brings rich, vibrant colors to the Czech landscape, the days grow longer, and the sun shows up more often. Czechia is a fantastic travel destination, and I recommend April to anyone who wants to explore it without the crowds. There are plenty of beautiful places to visit and travelers used to other destinations can still find something new and exciting here. 

This time, we’re staying mostly in Europe, with two exceptions right at the start. In vast and varied China, we get a glimpse of easily accessible limestone peaks that look right out of a fairy tale. Then, in Colombia’s safest region, we visit idyllic turquoise beaches and mysterious jungles still home to pre-Columbian peoples.

Back in Europe, Mediterranean Sardinia and Balkan Serbia are two lesser-known gems, where you can enjoy a more authentic experience without other tourists and photographers. You may fall in love with the authenticity of these places and find yourself coming back again and again. And finally, I recommend the Jeseníky Mountains in Czechia, which for me represent the very best of the Czech landscape. 

1. Yangshuo, China

For many, China might still feel like an unknown. It’s a vast country with an incredible number of fascinating places that don’t make it onto most travel itineraries. One of these places is the picturesque limestone mountains of Yangshuo. The hills rising sharply out of the landscape create an unmistakable silhouette that any landscape photographer will appreciate. Just don’t expect pristine wilderness. This area is densely populated and still shaped by human presence. For unspoiled nature, you have to travel much further north. Still, it’s an incredibly photogenic destination.

April is the perfect time to visit. The region is also relatively easy to reach, with high-speed trains from Guangzhou taking you directly to Guilin, the central city in the Yangshuo region. There are plenty of hiking trails in the area, but they’re generally short. If you enjoy staying active, a mix of cycling and short hikes to scenic spots is ideal.  

The only real challenge is the language barrier and cultural differences. That said, with today’s smart apps, communication is manageable. People here are kind, smile often, and try to help even if they don’t understand you. Just be ready to improvise from time to time. Like many other parts of Asia, locals are generally fine with being photographed, but always shoot respectfully.  

2. Caribbean Coast, Colombia

Cartagena is one of  Columbia’s most famous cities. Alongside Havana, its historic center is one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful. Colorful streets, small squares, and lush greenery mean there’s something for everyone. The only downside is the heavy tourism. If you’re after good street photography, head out early in the morning.  

For more off-the-beaten-path shots, venture beyond the city, especially the beaches. There, you can see how Colombians relax and spend their free time. For many, the beaches of Cartagena are the ultimate holiday destination, much like the Croatian coast for Central Europeans.

A bit farther out is Tayrona National Park, home to turquoise beaches and steep forest trails. For more adventurous photographers, consider a four-day hiking trip to the pre-Columbian Lost City, located in the nearby Los Nevados National Park. Indigenous people still live in this area, so be very respectful when photographing them. You need permission, especially when photographing children. April marks the end of the tourist season on the Caribbean coast. The dry season gives way to the rains, but at this point, the weather is still manageable, and the crowds thin out fast, making it a great time to visit.

3. Sardinia, Italy

In April, while much of Europe is still cool, you must visit at least one Mediterranean destination. This time, let’s head to Sardinia. The island offers stunning mountains, seascapes, and a deep sense of history and culture. To reach the more remote villages and find your own stretch of beach, it’s best to rent a car.   

Don’t be afraid to experiment with more creative shots. For example, use foreground elements or shoot outside the golden hour. The blue hour during the house after sunset is especially striking along the coast. Sardinia isn’t overrun with tourists, so you’re more likely to discover something truly unique.  

4.  Southwestern Serbia

Of all the places mentioned here, the least visited might surprise you. It’s not China or Colombia, but Serbia. I chose the country’s southwest region for its variety, rolling landscapes, and historic sites tucked in interesting locations. While churches might not be for everyone, many Serbian churches are built on hills, hidden in forests, or other interesting places worth visiting for the scenery alone. The most famous include Studenica and Sopočani. Near the borders of Montenegro and Kosovo, around the city of Novi Pazar, you also encounter mosques and Muslim communities. Several rivers wind through the region, and you can find limestone caves and villages that look like they’re straight out of an old movie.     

5. Jeseníky Mountains, Czechia

The Jeseníky Mountains are often overshadowed by the Krkonoše Mountains and Šumava ranges, but that’s a shame. They rival both in beauty and, for some, are even more rewarding. Spring is the perfect time for day hikes or multi-day hikes. Don’t just stick to Praděd, because Keprník, Šerák, and Petrovy Kameny are all fantastic as well. The wide views, strange rock formations, and deep forests are bound to spark your creativity.  

You can also find some architectural inspiration. The Jeseníky region has several interesting buildings, including the Priessnitz Spa, the Karlová Studánka Spa, and picturesque foothill villages like Branná, featured in the article’s cover photo.