Travel Seasons of Europe

Spring (March – May)

Overall feel: Fresh, blossoming, fewer crowds than summer.

• Mediterranean (Italy, Greece, Spain’s coast):
  • Average temps: 55–70°F (13–21°C)
  • Pros: Mild weather, spring flowers, early beach days in late May.
  • Cons: Sea may still be chilly; some seasonal businesses still closed in early March.
  • Pricing: Shoulder season pricing—cheaper than summer.
• Northern Europe (Scandinavia, Baltics):
  • Average temps: 40–60°F (4–16°C)
  • Pros: Days are getting longer; beautiful spring festivals.
  • Cons: Early spring can still feel like winter; unpredictable rain.
  • Pricing: Mid-range—slightly lower than summer highs.
• British Isles (UK, Ireland):
  • Average temps: 45–60°F (7–16°C)
  • Pros: Lush greenery, spring blooms, fewer tourists.
  • Cons: Still frequent showers; some attractions on reduced hours.
  • Pricing: Moderate, especially outside Easter holidays.
• Eastern Europe (Poland, Hungary, Romania):
  • Average temps: 50–70°F (10–21°C)
  • Pros: Affordable, charming Easter markets, pleasant sightseeing weather.
  • Cons: Can be cool in March; not beach weather yet.
  • Pricing: Very budget-friendly.

Summer (June – August)

Overall feel: Peak tourist season in most regions.

• Mediterranean:
  • Average temps: 75–95°F (24–35°C)
  • Pros: Guaranteed sunshine, perfect for beach and sailing.
  • Cons: Crowds, high prices, scorching afternoons in August.
  • Pricing: Highest of the year—book early for best rates.
• Northern Europe:
  • Average temps: 65–80°F (18–27°C)
  • Pros: Long days (nearly 24 hours of daylight in the far north), mild warmth.
  • Cons: Prices spike; some places feel “tourist-saturated.”
  • Pricing: High season for cruises and city stays.
• British Isles:
  • Average temps: 65–75°F (18–24°C)
  • Pros: Warm but rarely hot; ideal for gardens and countryside walks.
  • Cons: Still occasional rain; summer crowds at major attractions.
  • Pricing: High—especially during school holidays.
• Eastern Europe:
  • Average temps: 70–90°F (21–32°C)
  • Pros: Vibrant nightlife, festivals, café culture.
  • Cons: Hot inland cities; prices higher than spring or fall.
  • Pricing: Mid-to-high, but still often cheaper than Western Europe.

Fall (September – November)

Overall feel: A golden season for culture and mild weather.

• Mediterranean:
  • Average temps: 60–80°F (16–27°C) in September, cooler by November.
  • Pros: Warm seas through October, harvest festivals, fewer crowds.
  • Cons: Shorter days in late fall; some seasonal closures begin.
  • Pricing: Lower than summer, especially mid-to-late fall.
• Northern Europe:
  • Average temps: 45–65°F (7–18°C)
  • Pros: Crisp air, fall foliage, cozy café culture.
  • Cons: Rain increases; shorter daylight hours.
  • Pricing: Mid-to-low, great deals on accommodations.
• British Isles:
  • Average temps: 50–65°F (10–18°C)
  • Pros: Beautiful autumn colors, fewer tourists.
  • Cons: Rainy spells; some outdoor attractions closing.
  • Pricing: Moderate.
• Eastern Europe:
  • Average temps: 50–70°F (10–21°C)
  • Pros: Affordable, beautiful fall foliage, wine harvests.
  • Cons: Can get chilly by November.
  • Pricing: Low—fantastic value.

Winter (December – February)

Overall feel: A tale of two Europes—mild Mediterranean vs. snowy north.

• Mediterranean:
  • Average temps: 45–60°F (7–16°C)
  • Pros: Quiet cities, festive Christmas markets, bargain prices.
  • Cons: Many coastal resorts closed; cooler weather.
  • Pricing: Low season except around Christmas/New Year.
• Northern Europe:
  • Average temps: 20–40°F (-6–4°C)
  • Pros: Magical winter landscapes, northern lights, winter sports.
  • Cons: Very short daylight hours, extreme cold.
  • Pricing: Low except ski resorts and holiday weeks.
• British Isles:
  • Average temps: 35–50°F (2–10°C)
  • Pros: Cozy pubs, festive season atmosphere.
  • Cons: Damp and overcast; limited daylight.
  • Pricing: Low, except for Christmas and New Year.
• Eastern Europe:
  • Average temps: 20–35°F (-6–2°C)
  • Pros: Low prices, stunning snowy old towns, great skiing in some regions.
  • Cons: Harsh cold; some rural areas hard to reach.
  • Pricing: Very low outside major holidays.

Quick Pricing Guide

• High Season: June–August, Christmas–New Year week.
• Shoulder Season: April–May, September–October.
• Low Season: November–mid-December, January–March (except ski resorts).