Easter in Europe: Our Favorite Celebrations Across the Continent
Easter in Europe is a mix of centuries-old traditions, vibrant festivals, and—of course—amazing food. Over the years, we’ve spent Easter in some of the most beautiful places, each with its own unique way of celebrating the holiday. From the fireworks of Florence to the charming Easter markets of Colmar, here’s a look at how Easter is celebrated across Europe—and how we experienced it firsthand.
Florence, Italy (2018) – Fireworks at the Duomo
If there’s one Easter tradition that leaves a lasting impression, it’s Scoppio del Carro, the “Explosion of the Cart” in Florence. A massive, centuries-old cart is pulled by white oxen through the city to the Duomo, where the Archbishop lights a rocket inside the cathedral. The result? A huge fireworks display right in front of Florence’s most iconic landmark.
It’s loud, chaotic, and completely unforgettable. Thousands gather in the piazza to witness it, and if the explosion goes off perfectly, it’s said to bring good fortune for the year ahead.
Easter Food in Italy
Colomba di Pasqua – A dove-shaped sweet bread, similar to panettone but softer.
Giant chocolate eggs – Every bakery and supermarket sells massive chocolate eggs filled with surprises.
Agnello (lamb) – The traditional Easter meal, usually roasted or stewed.
Colmar, France (2019) – A Fairytale Easter
If you want to experience a storybook Easter, head to Alsace. Colmar, with its half-timbered houses and winding canals, is already one of the most picturesque towns in France, but at Easter, it turns into something out of a pastel-colored dream.
The town sets up Easter markets similar to their famous Christmas markets. Wooden chalets line the streets selling handmade chocolates, gingerbread, and spring crafts. Easter egg trees decorate the squares, and bakeries fill their windows with beautifully wrapped Lamala cakes—little sponge cakes shaped like lambs.
Easter Food in Colmar
Kougelhopf – A sweet, yeasted cake with almonds and raisins.
Lamala – Traditional Easter lamb-shaped cake, dusted with powdered sugar.
Local Alsatian wines – Because Easter calls for a celebratory glass of Riesling!
Torino, Italy (2020 & 2021) – Easter in Lockdown
Easter 2020 in Torino was unlike anything we had experienced before—because we didn’t experience much of anything. Italy was in full lockdown, and instead of celebrating in a lively piazza, we were stuck in our apartment eating chocolate eggs.
2021 was slightly better, but restrictions were still in place. No large family gatherings, no processions, no big celebrations—just quiet meals at home and a deep appreciation for the little things.
Zagreb, Croatia (2022) – Easter Eggs Everywhere!
Croatia has one of the most colorful Easter traditions in Europe. The city of Zagreb was filled with pisanice—beautifully decorated Easter eggs, often hand-painted with intricate folk designs. Giant versions of these eggs were placed around the city as decorations.
Religious services were a big part of the celebration, but Easter in Zagreb also had a warm, community feel with families gathering in parks and squares.
Easter Food in Zagreb
Pinca – A sweet, citrusy Easter bread.
Hard-boiled eggs with horseradish – A common Easter tradition in Croatia.
Ham & fresh spring veggies – Easter brunch essentials.
Versailles, France (2023) – Easter Fit for Royalty
Easter in Versailles was elegant and festive. The Notre-Dame de Versailles church hosted beautiful services, and the city had a mix of local charm and royal grandeur. The Easter markets had an impressive selection of artisan chocolates—French chocolatiers go all out for Easter.
One of the best parts? The Versailles gardens and fountains were open for the season, making it the perfect place for an Easter Sunday stroll.
Easter Food in Versailles
Elaborate French Easter chocolates – France does chocolate on another level.
Roast lamb with herbs – A classic Easter main dish.
French pastries – Because you can’t leave France without having at least one croissant.
Rotterdam, Netherlands (2024) – A Laid-Back Easter
Easter in the Netherlands is more about food and family than religious ceremonies. We saw lots of spring markets, families out biking, and people enjoying Paasbrunch (Easter brunch). Unlike Italy or France, where religious traditions are still strong, Easter in Rotterdam felt more like a celebration of spring.
Every country in Europe celebrates Easter a little differently, but one thing remains the same—it’s a time for tradition, family, and really good food. From the dramatic fireworks in Florence to the charming markets of Colmar, Easter has given us some of our favorite travel memories.
Where’s the best place you’ve spent Easter? Let us know in the comments!
