Visit Japan to stretch the Canadian dollar further 

Explore grounding and soul-charging European escapes 

Ride the waves this spring on board a cruise 

Save around 23% by departing on a Friday instead of a Monday 

The light at the end of the winter tunnel is approaching and Canadians are eager to explore new destinations, money-saving gems and domestic favourites. The light at the end of the winter tunnel is approaching and Canadians are eager to explore new destinations, money-saving gems and domestic favourites. According to Expedia’s Spring Outlook, both Japan and Portugal are top travel destinations for Canadians, with many locales in both countries topping the list of trending destinations. Canadians are also gearing up for march break through domestic travel to beloved Canadian destinations. 

Where to stretch the Loonie: Travel deals and steals 

Japan has quickly become a top destination among Canadians with two cities among the top ten trending this spring. Both Osaka (+75 per cent) and Tokyo (+45 per cent)¹ have seen a year-over-year increase on lodging searches. With cherry blossom season rounding the corner, now is the perfect time for travellers to plan their trips while experiencing one of nature’s most beautiful seasonal moments. Travellers should consider adding the below spots to their travel itinerary to fully embrace this year’s cherry blossom season. 

• Meguro river (Tokyo) – The Meguro River, located in Tokyo, is renowned for its picturesque cherry blossom-lined path, making it one of the city’s most iconic spots during cherry blossom season. Stretching over 4 kilometers, the river is flanked by around 800 cherry trees, creating a stunning canopy of pink blossoms.  

• Tenryu-ji temple (Kyoto) – Tenryu-ji temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its breathtaking beauty and historical significance. The temple is famous for its stunning Zen Garden and its surrounding landscape, which features a scenic view of the Arashiyama mountains. During spring, the temple grounds come alive with over 200 cherry trees, offering a spectacular display of blossoms. 

Looking to explore where the locals go for cherry blossoms? Here are some hidden gems you won’t want to miss: 

• Kinshi Park (Tokyo) – Kinshi Park, located in Sumida, Tokyo, is a charming urban park famous for its stunning cherry blossom displays in spring. Home to over 150 cherry trees, the park creates a beautiful blooming canopy that attracts many locals. Its spacious grounds provide a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for picnics and enjoying the seasonal beauty. It’s also a popular photo spot, offering a unique view of the Tokyo Skytree framed by cherry blossoms in full bloom. 

• Sarue Park (Tokyo) – Sarue Park, located in Tokyo’s Koto Ward, is a peaceful urban park known for its beautiful cherry blossom trees in spring. The park features a serene pond surrounded by over 100 cherry trees, creating a stunning display of blossoms. 

Overall Trending Spring Destinations for Canadians Based on Lodging Searches

Osaka (+75 per cent) Saint Maarten (+55 per cent) Tokyo (+45 per cent) Paris (+35 per cent) Oaxaca (+35 per cent) Manila (+35 per cent) Nassau (+30 per cent) Faro District (+25 per cent) Dubai (+20 per cent) Tulum (+20 per cent)

Retreat, re-charge, rejuvenate: European wellness escapes 

Travel is all about taking time for oneself to do what you enjoy most and recharge in the way that suits you best. Hotels across the globe have been introducing unique offerings to allow guests to experience ultimate relaxation. From aromatherapy, spas, horseback riding, culinary experiences, and nature retreats, there are options to suit the needs of every type of traveller.  

Portugal – Known for its beaches, food, warm climate and relaxation, many Portuguese destinations are topping the list of trending destinations among Canadians this spring. Among them are the Azores (+40 per cent), Faro (+25 per cent), Porto (+20 per cent) and Lisbon (+10 per cent)². Hotels across this stunning country offer unique experiences to allow travellers to experience ultimate relaxation and serenity.  

• Porto: The Vila Foz Hotel & SPA – member of Design Hotels in Porto offers an on-site wellness spa with treatment rooms along with custom treatments tailored to each individual’s needs. They also offer a picnic package, allowing guests to experience a picnic like a local as well as a private dining experience where Chef Arnaldo Azevedo cooks for you at the bar while telling stories behind his dishes. 

• São Miguel, Azores: The Sensi Azores Nature and SPA – The ultimate nature escape, located on the main island of the Azores, this hotel is situated on a protected site, meaning guests can enjoy tranquility and seclusion. The hotel also works with local partners to bring experiences such as horseback riding and sailboat rentals to guests.  

Spain – Also making the list for trending destinations in Europe this spring are Barcelona (+10 per cent) and Madrid (+10 per cent). The home of tapas, beaches, a rich history and architectural wonders, there is so much to see and do as well as ample opportunity for relaxation.  

• Madrid – Book the ‘Bless Wellbeing Terrace Villa’ at the Bless Hotel Madrid and experience the most restful sleep. The room is equipped with the HOGO System 08 scientifically proven to help with your immune system while you sleep. It also offers two terraces with a jacuzzi, and sun loungers directly connected to the room.  

Italy – Italy has long been a top destination and for good reason. With mouthwatering pizza and pasta and picturesque country sides and vineyards, many dream of visiting one of its many breathtaking cities and towns. Among them and trending with Canadians is Milan (+15 per cent). Most known for its fashion and architecture, Milan offers a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation.  

• Milan – Scent is known for creating memories, calming the mind and evoking emotion. The Magna Pars- L’Hotel à Parfum Small Luxury Hotels of the World offers an on-site perfume laboratory, allowing travellers to go on a scent journey. There is also an on-site spa, garden, aromatic Turkish bath, as well as yoga lessons.  

France – Paris (+35 per cent) is a classic on the list of trending destinations for Canadian travels and this spring, Nice has also made the list (+20 per cent). For those looking to extend their vacation and take a detour, France offers many spots outside the city to fully disconnect and unwind. 

• Loire Valley: Two hours from Paris, Loire Valley Lodges is located in the heart of a forest, offering forest baths, a Nordic spa, art gallery, and garden. This hotel serves as the ideal destination for those looking to reconnect with nature and themselves by disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.  

Switzerland – True bliss comes in the form of mountains, cheese and chocolate, and Switzerland offers the best of all three. Zurich (+20 per cent)³ has seen an increase in popularity among Canadian flyers, many ready to hit the slopes on new hills in a far-off destination. Not only does the country offer opportunities for adventure, but those seeking calm will also find it here among the stunning landscape.  

• Monthey – Discover simplicity and comfort at Whitepod Original where you will be surrounded by nature and mountains. With options to stay in pods or cabins, you will be met with postcard-worthy views paired with an on-site spa offering yoga, an ice room, saunas, and Scandinavian baths.  

Trending European Destinations for Canadians Based on Lodging Searches

Azores (+40 per cent) Paris (+35 per cent) Faro (+25 per cent) Athens (+20 per cent) Porto (+20 per cent) Nice (+20 per cent) Milan (+15 per cent) Lisbon (+10 per cent) Barcelona (+10 per cent) Madrid (+10 per cent)

Last minute Canadian march break travel 

If you are still looking for some fun march break plans, consider booking a close-to-home vacation in one of this year’s trending Canadian destinations including Kamloops (+80 per cent), Charlottetown (+60 per cent), Nanaimo (+55 per cent), London (+35 per cent), Ottawa (+30 percent), or Victoria (+25 per cent)⁴. With so much to see in our own backyards, now is the perfect time to explore Canada with family.  

• Kamloops – Kamloops offers a variety of winter activities, allowing you to squeeze in the last bit of winter before entering spring. While visiting you will have the opportunity to go skiing/snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, winter biking and snowmobiling. You can also explore arts and culture through live theatre and orchestral performances as well as Indigenous experiences allowing you to support local Indigenous businesses.  

• Charlottetown – While in Charlottetown travellers will not want to miss out on the excellent seafood with many local restaurants serving up the freshest catches of the day. Visitors can also enjoy a walk along the waterfront as well as local golf courses. 

• Nanaimo – The first thing that comes to mind and that should be checked off any travellers to-do list when visiting is trying the infamous Nanaimo bar right in the city where it was born. Travellers can also embark on a whale watching boat tour and enjoy a taste of the local craft brewery scene. 

Trending Domestic March Break Destinations  Based on Lodging Searches

Kamloops (+80 per cent) Charlottetown (+60 per cent) Nanaimo (+55 per cent) London (+35 per cent) Ottawa (+30 per cent) Victoria (+25 per cent) Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine (+25 per cent) Quebec City (+20 per cent) Saskatoon (+20 per cent) Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean (+20 per cent)

Spring travel tips⁵   

• Peak spring travel dates are the week of March 4th for international travel and the week of May 13th for domestic. 

• Save nearly $72 compared to peak dates on domestic flights by travelling the week of May 6^th. 

• Save nearly $79 compared to peak dates on international flights by travelling the week of April 8^th. 

• Regardless of the departure date, Expedia data shows departing on a Friday instead of a Monday could shave around 23% off the price of a domestic ticket.⁶ 

• Allow Expedia’s suite of traveller tools to simplify the journey by taking the guesswork out of booking, saving on airfare and streamlining the planning process.   

• Save with price alerts: Use Price Tracking on the Expedia app to pinpoint the optimal booking window and receive instant notifications when flight prices drop.*  

• Opt for morning flights: According to Expedia’s 2025 Air Hacks Report, morning departures are less prone to cancellations than flights after 3 p.m., highlighting the benefits of seizing the day.   

• The Annual Vacation Sale is on. There’s no better time to book an escape with family and friends. Save 25% or more with Member Prices on selected packages when you bundle your flight and hotel together. Book by Mar 31 for travel by Sep 8, 2025**. 

Cruising through spring 

• Score Cruise Savings During Wave Season – From January to March, it’s “wave season” – that time of year when cruise lines offer their best deals, discounts and extras for the upcoming year. Here’s how to get the most out of the cruise industry’s version of Black Friday: 

• Look for Expedia Extras: whether it’s an onboard cash credit, Expedia Exclusive Staterooms, reduced deposits, free upgrades or special offers, many cruise vacation packages come with an Expedia bonus – this is on top of the great wave season deals offered by the cruise line.  

• Earn up to an $1,000 onboard credit on select sailings by booking before February 28. 

• Chat with a Vacation Consultant that specializes in cruises to help put together a custom vacation experience. 

• Save by bundling: Need a flight and hotel stay pre- and post-sailing? Bundle items together to save with package rates and manage the entire trip in one place. 

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Notes to Editor 

Images can be found here 

Data Sources  

¹Based on Expedia lodging searches for travel from Mar. 1 – May. 22, 2025, as of Feb 9, 2025, compared to the same time period the previous year. 

²Based on Expedia lodging searches in Europe for travel from Mar. 1 – May. 22, 2025, as of Feb 9, 2025, compared to the same time period the previous year. 

³Based on Expedia flight searches in Europe for travel from Mar. 1 – May. 22, 2025, as of Feb 9, 2025, compared to the same time period the previous year. 

⁴Based on Expedia lodging searches in Canada for travel from Mar. 8 – Mar. 16, 2025, as of Feb 9, 2025, compared to the same time period the previous year. 

⁵Based on Expedia flight demand for travel during March, April and May 2024 compared to the same time frame in 2023. 

⁶Best day of the week to depart recommendation is based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through October for 2024, sourced from ARC’s global airline sales database. 

*Price predictions are not a guarantee and are available on select routes. 

**Book by 3/31/2025 11:59 pm in the hotel property’s local time. Stay between 2/25/2025–9/8/2025. Member Prices are available to Expedia® app users and Expedia® Rewards members. Limited availability. Blackout periods may apply.