March 20, 2023

The most popular spring destinations according to Instagram

Spring comes with a wealth of benefits that are welcomed by all, such as longer days and warmer weather following the harsh winter months. Spring is also the time for flowers to bloom, leaves to grow back on trees, and for nature to get back to its vibrant best.

All over the world, there are destinations that are more popular around springtime, including countries with stunning flowers and good weather, as well as locations that embrace Easter with particular joie de vivre and those that welcome spring break with open arms.

However, our thoughts turned to what the most popular country is during the spring season. With so many people sharing their spring snaps across social media, the team at DiscoverCars.com turned to Instagram for help.

We analyzed 20 different countries and examined the most popular hashtags for spring, spring break and flowers before combining the results and ranking the destinations accordingly.

We also did a separate ranking focusing solely on the Easter-related hashtags to see which countries were the most popular on social media.

Methodology

We looked at 20 different countries using a seed list from CNN Traveler which looked at the top countries around the world throughout 2022.

We then used Instagram to record the number of posts for each country using hashtags related to spring, spring break, flowers, and (country) in bloom. We combined the number of posts across all hashtags and ranked the countries according to the data.

We also did a separate ranking of Easter-related hashtags, ranking the locations according to the hashtag data.
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Netherlands

Combined posts - 56,767

Ranking as the most popular spring destination according to Instagram is the Netherlands. The European country is a popular hotspot for tourists all year round but is a great spring location, too, with its brightly colored tulip fields. The country received 56,767 posts across all spring-related hashtags, while #DutchFlowers proved particularly popular after being used on 54,439 posts.

The Netherlands or Holland is home to lively cities such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam and is known for its picturesque canals and windmills. The country is packed full of history with attractions such as the Anne Frank house and Van Gogh museum.

Japan

Combined posts - 51,199

In second place in the ranking is Japan. The Asian country collected a total of 51,199 posts on Instagram for its spring-related hashtags. #JapanSpring proved most popular with 36,791 posts, while #JapanFlowers was used on 13,946 photos on account of the country's beautiful array of cherry blossoms.

Home to Mount Fuji (pictured), Japan is rich with both cultural and natural beauty, while the culinary delights are also an art form to behold. The country is known globally for its anime and gaming exports, and visitors can also take advantage of attractions such as the Kinkakuji Temple and Nijo Castle.

United Kingdom

Combined posts - 41,250

Placing third in the ranking, the United Kingdom collected a total of 41,250 posts on Instagram across its spring-related hashtags. Hashtags such as #UKFlowers proved popular with 25,504 posts. Meanwhile, #UKSpring was used on 15,453 posts, and #UKInBloom had 182 posts on account of beautiful flowers such as daffodils, bluebells and crocuses.

The United Kingdom is home to exciting cities such as London (pictured) with its many green spaces, as well as Edinburgh, Manchester, and Belfast, meaning there is no shortage of culture and tourist hotspots. In the spring, gardens such as Blenheim Gardens, in the Cotswolds, and the Botanic Gardens, in Belfast, are must-sees.

United Arab Emirates

Combined posts - 40,693

In fourth place is the United Arab Emirates with a combined total of 40,693 posts. #UAEFlowers was a commonly used hashtag with 40,528. Other hashtags include #UAEBloom, which has been used only once.

The United Arab Emirates is a luxurious country that is home to stunning hibiscus blooms and wealthy cities such as the capital, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai. During spring, visitors can enjoy nature activities such as the Dubai Miracle Garden and extravagant Dubai Creek. With hot weather all year round, Jumeirah beach is also a great vacation choice in the springtime

Canada

Combined posts - 39,975

Rounding off the top five most popular spring destinations according to Instagram is Canada with 39,975 combined posts across all spring-related hashtags on Instagram. #SpringInCanada was used on 30,319 posts, while #CanadaFlowers was used on 9,594 posts. Hashtags such as #CanadaInBloom were less popular, with 45 posts including this tag.

Canada is known for its roses and hellebores, alongside its love of ice hockey, which can be enjoyed all year round. There are also a number of nature tours available to visitors, which are particularly enjoyable throughout spring. This includes the Victoria and Butchart Gardens tour in Vancouver

Colombia

Combined posts - 39,829

In sixth place in the ranking was Colombia and this South American country had a combined total of 39,829 posts on Instagram for its spring-related hashtags. Most of the posts came from a single hashtag - #ColombianFlowers (39,759), while other tags such as #SpringBreakColombia were used on 63 posts.

Situated in South America, Colombia is known for its love of coffee, carnivals and orchids. Throughout spring, tourists can visit attractions such as Mount Monserrate or take part in a coffee tour in Cocora Valley. Either way, there is something for everyone in Colombia throughout spring.

Singapore

Combined posts - 33,406

Ranking in seventh place, Singapore collected a combined total of 33,406 Instagram posts for spring-related hashtags. There was a love for the flowers of Singapore, with #SingaporeFlowers receiving 33,057 posts. Elsewhere, #SingaporeInBloom saw 30 posts on the platform.

The Asian country of Singapore boasts snapdragons and roses galore and is known for its cosmopolitan society, with its blend of South Asian and Malay cultures. The country is home to Universal Studios, which is a popular tourist attraction. In spring, travelers can take part in a Marina Bay night cycling tour, a perfect way of taking in the sights and sounds.

Turkey

Combined posts - 27,282

In eighth place ranked Turkey after the country received a combined total of 27,282 posts across all relevant spring hashtags on Instagram. #TurkishFlowers was used on 25,119 posts, while #SpringInTurkey was included on 2,151 Instagram posts.

Turkey is home to vibrant cities, including the capital, Istanbul, Ankara and Antalya. These locations are tourist hotspots all year round and are great destinations for spring break. Nature attractions include the lavender fields found in the village of Kuyucak, which are not to be missed in spring.

Finland

Combined posts - 24,744

In ninth place, Finland collected 24,744 posts on Instagram across all spring-related hashtags. In particular, #SpringInFinland proved a popular tag and was included on 24,360 posts. #FinlandInBloom was less prevalent with the hashtag only used on nine Instagram posts.

Found in Scandinavia, Finland is widely regarded as the happiest country in the world, and lily of the valley grows there in abundance, meaning it's a great place to visit in spring. The destination is home to over 100,000 different scenic lakes, meaning there is no shortage of nature to experience throughout the spring season.

New Zealand

Combined posts - 24,234

Finishing off the top 10, New Zealand received a combined total of 24,234 posts across all relevant spring hashtags on Instagram. #NZFlowers received the most love and was used on 21,043 different posts; additionally, #NZInBloom was used 65 times on posts.

New Zealand is a fairly small island but is home to some amazing landscapes and nature sites such as Milford Sound are particularly popular options for visitors. Elsewhere, the country is known for Kiwifruits, love of rugby and vineyards.

Australia

Combined posts - 24,187

Placing 11th in the ranking is Australia with the country having a combined total of 26,418 posts on Instagram for spring-related hashtags. The most popular tag was by far #SpringInAustralia with 18,957 posts, showing us that people down under are clearly keen to share their springtime snaps.

Australia is a popular tourist destination due to its heat, wildlife and flora - including its native eucalyptus - but the country is also home to amazing cities such as Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. Interestingly, the majority of Australians live on the coast due to the warm weather. Travelers should be sure to visit Sydney Harbour and Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens.

Italy

Combined posts - 19,575

Next, in 12th place, ranked Italy, as this popular tourist destination received 19,575 posts on Instagram across all relevant spring hashtags. Specifically, #SpringInItaly was used on most posts with 15,575. Elsewhere, #ItalyFlowers received 3,804 posts with people keen to share snaps of Italian blossoms such as orchids and roses.

Italy is a hotspot all year round for travelers due to its unique and beautiful cities, including Venice, Rome and Florence, with their historic sites and romantic atmospheres. Venice's Canal Grande is picturesque at any time of the year, but is a must-see when visiting the country in spring.

Poland

Combined posts - 18,802

In 13th place in the ranking, the European country of Poland received just under nineteen thousand posts on Instagram across all spring-related hashtags. #SpringInPoland was a popular tag used on 9,963 posts, while #PolishFlowers was used 8,829 times on the platform.

Poland is known for its snowdrops and famous filled dumplings - known as pierogi - and is home to historic sites and scenic locations, such as the Tatra Mountains. During spring, there are numerous locations to visit, including Oliwa Park, Sopot Beach and Lake Morskie Oko.

United States of America

Combined posts - 17,652

Placing 14th in the ranking, America received a total of 17,652 combined posts for all spring-related hashtags. #AmericanFlowers proved most popular and was used on 9,448 posts, while #AmericanSpring was used 7,281 times. Additionally, #AmericaInBloom was included in 579 posts.

Although the US is home to metropolitan cities such as New York and Chicago, the country is also home to numerous nature hotspots which are perfect for a spring holiday. Destinations such as Madison, Wisconsin and Honolulu in Hawaii, with its renowned hibiscus flowers, offer the chance to take in wildlife and nature trails, away from bustling city life.

Mexico

Combined posts - 15,849

Ranking 15th, Mexico received 15,849 Instagram posts with hashtags relating to spring. Overall, the tag #MexicanFlowers, on accounts of its bountiful yucca flowers, proved the most popular choice with 13,658 posts. Meanwhile, #SpringInMexico was used on 898 posts, while #SpringBreakMexico was included on 1,261 Instagram posts.

Home to many ancient ruins, Mexico is a country full of history and culture. Cities such as Mexico City and Puebla offer a slice of city life, while Cancún provides travelers with beautiful beaches and sunny resorts, meaning there really is something in Mexico for everyone.

Sweden

Combined posts - 15,243

Placing 16th place in the ranking, Sweden received 15,243 posts on Instagram with spring-related hashtags. #SpringInSweden was by far the most popular tag and was used on 14,127 posts. Additionally, #SwedishFlowers was used 1,105 times on the platform, the country being home to eye-catching cornflowers.

The second Scandinavian country to feature, Sweden is home to cities such as Stockholm and Gothenburg. The destination is perfect for the spring season as the country is home to so many unique forests and lakes. Nature attractions include the Botanical Garden in Gothenburg, Abisko National Park and the Stockholm Canals.

Israel

Combined posts - 14,387

Next, in 17th place, ranked Israel. This Middle Eastern country received a total of 14,387 combined posts for spring-related hashtags on Instagram. #IsraelFlowers was found to be a popular tag and was used on 11,358 posts. Furthermore, #SpringInIsrael was used across 2,921 different posts.

Israel is a historic country due to its religious significance and is home to revered sites such as the Al Aqsa Mosque. However, there are a number of nature activities to get up to in Israel, including Masada National Park and the Baha'i Gardens, where poppies and anemones grow.

Switzerland

Combined posts - 13,729

Ranking in 18th place was Switzerland with this European country, famous for its edelweiss, receiving 13,729 posts for relevant spring hashtags across Instagram. The most popular tags were quite evenly split with #SwissFlowers receiving 6,909 posts and #SpringInSwitzerland being used on 6,788 different posts.

Switzerland is a unique country and is a perfect place for a break surrounded by nature. The destination is home to various lakes and the picturesque Alps with its many popular ski resorts. Travelers should aim to have a day on the slopes but also make time for nature hotspots such as Lake Geneva and Rhine Falls.

Greece

Combined posts - 12,951


Following Switzerland in 19th place is Greece with the country receiving 12,951 Instagram posts that included a spring-related hashtag. #SpringInGreece was the most used spring hashtag with 11,020 posts and elsewhere, #GreeceFlowers was used 1,862 times with people sharing their floral snaps in this charming country, which is known for its peonies.

Greece is a well-known hotspot for holidaymakers in the summer, but experiencing spring in the country can be an amazing experience too. Greece is home to thousands of islands, such as Santorini, Mykonos and Rhodes, meaning it's perfect for travelers who love to explore. Nature attractions such as Mount Lycabettus are a great option in spring.

Germany

Combined posts - 12,919

Rounding off the ranking and placing 20th is Germany, with the country receiving 12,919 posts for spring-related hashtags. #SpringInGermany saw the bulk of posts and was used 11,569 times, followed by #GermanyFlowers which was a tag used on 1,329 posts in a country that grows marigolds and baby's breath.

Germany is a European industrial powerhouse that is known for its exports of vehicles and machinery. Tourists are drawn to the location due to its vibrant cities, including Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt. Rich with history and culture, the country is also home to natural attractions such as the English Garden in Munich and Tiergarten, which is found in Berlin.

Easter Destinations

Now that we've looked at the most popular destinations around the world for spring-related hashtags, it's beneficial to also examine which countries prove most popular on Instagram when it comes to Easter-related posts.

To do this, we used the same method and found the most relevant hashtag related to the celebration of Easter. We then ranked the countries according to the data to find which locations proved the most popular around Eastertime.

Easter celebrations are synonymous with springtime and are a major part of the season. Although it's an important Christian festival where the resurrection of Jesus Christ is celebrated, people from all over the globe come together to celebrate.

Without any further ado, let's take a look at the top 10 countries with the most popular Easter hashtag on Instagram:

  1. United Kingdom - #EasterUK - 3,019 posts
  2. Greece - #EasterGreece - 2,582 posts
  3. Australia - #EasterAustralia - 2,231 posts
  4. Canada - #EasterCanada - 1,281 posts
  5. Ireland - #EasterIreland - 530 posts
  6. Malta - #EasterMalta - 504 posts
  7. Singapore - #EasterSingapore - 443 posts
  8. United Arab Emirates - #EasterUAE - 438 posts
  9. South Africa - #EasterSouthAfrica - 350 posts
  10. India - #EasterIndia - 317 posts
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It was interesting to see destinations such as Malta, Ireland and South Africa feature in the top 10, despite not ranking in the top 20 countries for spring-related hashtags. The UK took the top spot proving itself as a popular spring and Easter location on the social media platform.

Although the Netherlands ranked first in the spring ranking, it wasn't a popular option for Easter hashtags, overall, #EasterNetherlands was only used on 14 posts and ranked towards the bottom.

It was exciting to see countries from all over the world included in the ranking with the results not being confined to a single continent. Overall, there is something out there for everyone this spring.

We hope these two rankings have helped you understand the most popular springtime and Easter destinations according to Instagram. By analyzing hashtag data we are able to see which locations prove the most popular throughout the season.

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Aleksandrs Buraks

Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com
Aleksandrs has over 10 years of experience in marketing with a focus on creating stellar content that provides topical insights using data. Having taken five road trips across Europe and one in the U.S., he is passionate about traveling by car. His favorite countries to visit are Denmark and Thailand. You can find him on Linkedin, Facebook, and Twitter.