The Best Time to Plan an Unforgettable European Adventure
The best time to plan an unforgettable European adventure depends on where you are going and what you want to see and do. For the cheapest prices and smallest crowds, travel in the shoulder season of April-May or September-October.
The off-season of November – February can be cold and wet, but offers high culture like Vienna Boys’ Choir, opera, and Lipizzaner Stallions at their finest.
Spring
The first thing you need to do before planning an unforgettable European adventure is create a realistic itinerary that fits your budget, time frame, and preferences. This ultimate step-by-step guide will help you do just that, from choosing a destination to planning your accommodation and transport.
Spring is the ideal season for many European destinations. Temperatures are mild, making sightseeing comfortable and enjoyable, especially in southern Europe where it can become too hot in summer. Many of the main attractions are open at this time, and prices are lower than in summer.
Many local events take place at this time. For example, the tulip fields in the Netherlands open from late March to mid-May and attract huge crowds. The Cannes Film Festival takes place in May, and the Andalusia region of Spain is famous for its Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations.
In the northern countries of Europe, winter is starting to dissipate and many ski resorts start closing in late March-mid April. This is a great time to visit places like Norway, Sweden, and Denmark where you can experience the unique Midnight Sun around the 21st-24th of June, or see the spectacular Northern Lights. It’s also a good time to try Almabtrieb, the traditional cattle drive from the mountains back to the valleys, which is celebrated in Austria and Switzerland.
This is a busy time for cruise ships repositioning from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, so coastal destinations can experience surges in visitor numbers on the days when the ships arrive and depart. However, once they’ve left, it can be a really lovely time to explore cities in Western Europe and Eastern Europe, with lower temperatures and quieter crowds than in summer. It’s also a good time for culture lovers to visit as this is when most European festivals and events happen. For example, the carnival in Venice begins at the end of January and runs for several weeks, with processions, music, and costumes. It’s an incredible spectacle and one of the most famous in the world.
Summer
As summer begins in Europe, many of the continent’s major cities will be bustling with tourists and locals. It’s an ideal time to explore cities like Rome, Athens, and Barcelona. The weather is hot but not too stifling, making sightseeing and enjoying the local food and drink that much easier.
It’s also the peak season for beach vacations in Southern Europe, as well as many other activities. Taking a scenic train ride in Switzerland, for example, is something that everyone should do at least once in their lifetime. You’ll see waterfalls cascading into lush green valleys and jagged mountain peaks that will leave you speechless.
If you want to take in some of the continent’s major sporting events and outdoor festivals, this is the time to do it. This is especially true in the Netherlands where the Keukenhof Gardens and Lisse tulip fields are at their best, and in Spain where Semana Santa (Holy Week) celebrations draw large crowds.
Summer is also a great time to visit Northern Europe because it’s an ideal season for a cruise around the Baltic Sea and the Scandinavian countries. The weather is warm but not stifling, and the scenery is at its most beautiful. You’ll be able to enjoy the beaches and even go hiking in the mountains.
The Summer Solstice, or Midsummer as it’s known in the Nordic countries, is an important holiday that is celebrated all over the world. It is not only a symbolic mark of the changing of the seasons but it’s also a time to celebrate the bounty of nature, family, and friendship.
September and October are also good times to travel in Europe because they offer a pleasant climate without the high summer prices and crowds. You’ll still be able to enjoy the beach and other popular attractions, but you’ll pay less than during the peak season. Plus, you’ll be able to experience the “White Nights” in Saint Petersburg, Russia during this time of year, when the city is lit up all night long. It’s a truly magical experience to see this amazing part of the city.
There are many ways to plan budget adventure travel to Europe. Some tips include: choosing affordable destinations, traveling during the shoulder or off-season, using budget airlines, staying in hostels or Airbnb, and taking advantage of Travel Discount Codes. Researching and comparing prices in advance can also help you save money.
Fall
It might be chilly, but it’s also the best time to see Europe’s stunning fall colors. Whether you’re admiring tulips in the Netherlands, sipping beer at Oktoberfest in Munich, or sampling wine in Bordeaux, this is one of the most breathtaking times to visit European destinations. And with lower prices on flights, accommodation, and attractions – plus the absence of crowds - it’s an ideal time to enjoy a 10-day Europe trip.
Many areas that live off of tourism in the summer start to wind down at the end of October – especially smaller, more rural locations. However, in cities such as Rome, Athens, or Barcelona, it’s often still warm and sunny enough to fully enjoy a city break without the high-season crowds.
The cold weather and short days can be challenging, but if you’re prepared to wrap up warm, November to early December is another good time to travel to Europe. The prices are even more reasonable than at the peak of summer, and the streets are quieter. The only downside is that if you’re hoping for some beach time, the Mediterranean coast can be quite chilly at this time.
During the winter months, many places that are popular with skiers experience the high season. But there are still many destinations that offer skiing in the mountains and snowy landscapes to explore. Plus, the northern regions are also a great choice for those hoping to see the dazzling Northern Lights.
Winter
The winter season is a unique European adventure all its own. Many places have a completely different vibe in winter and this can create an unforgettable experience. Winter is also one of the best times to visit the Nordics, Alps, and other mountainous regions. It’s a great time to ski, snowshoe, and enjoy other outdoor activities. It is also an excellent time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland!
December is a good month to travel if you don’t mind colder weather and want to enjoy a festive atmosphere. Many cities and towns have Christmas markets at this time of year with plenty of mulled wine, hot chocolate, and other traditional treats. This is especially the case in cities like Copenhagen and Bruges.
January and February are also cold months but they’re the best time to see the Northern Lights in Iceland and do other winter activities in the Alps and Scandinavia. It’s a great time to go dog sledding and visit places in the Arctic Circle as well.
BudgetAir is a travel booking website that offers discounted flights and travel packages. Adventure travel to Europe can be booked with a BudgetAir Promo Code for additional savings. Keep in mind that certain travel restrictions may apply and be sure to check the terms and conditions before booking.
This is an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience! Snorkeling in the Silfra Fissure in Iceland is an amazing way to see the crack between two tectonic plates. It’s a must-do on any bucket list!
June and September are great months to visit Europe as everything is open, the weather is nice in most places, and there are fewer crowds. It’s also a good time to visit the Nordic countries and other mountainous regions as they are at their most beautiful.
October and November are also good months to visit Europe. It’s a bit colder in the north, but the southern parts of Europe can still offer warm and sunny weather perfect for beach holidays or city trips! This is also the best time to explore Eastern Europe as it’s a lot cheaper and less busy. The mountains in the Alps and the Pyrenees are particularly lovely at this time of the year.
Conclusion
However, once they’ve left, it can be a really lovely time to explore cities in Western Europe and Eastern Europe, with lower temperatures and quieter crowds than in summer. Summer is also a great time to visit Northern Europe because it’s an ideal season for a cruise around the Baltic Sea and the Scandinavian countries. And with lower prices on flights, accommodation, and attractions – plus the absence of crowds - it’s an ideal time to enjoy a 10-day Europe trip.
