On the road since 1993
woman standing on a beach in winter

Best European Places to Visit by Season

European summers are when many people may perceive it as the best time to visit Europe. But we’re here to expand your horizons and showcase that this part of the world can be appreciated all year round. You just need to know when each country shines its best. Thankfully, we’ve had the opportunity to visit European destinations throughout the seasons and are ready to let you into our secrets. Will you join us for the ride?

Table of Contents:

  • When to Visit European Destinations

  • Spring European Destinations

  • Summer European Destinations

  • Fall European Destinations

  • Winter European Destinations

When to Visit European Destinations

City breaks, long weekends by the beach, or sipping on local grape varieties at a vineyard, visiting European destinations can do it all. But where do you choose first? Depending on your season of choice, your experiences can vary from visit to visit. In summer you have the warming Mediterranean sun fueling your days exploring, while in autumn, the cooling temperatures bring fewer crowds to top attractions. Let us share our top European destinations to visit by season.

Spring European Destinations

Months: March / April / May

Touring Europe during spring brings with it a sense of fresh starts. Days become longer and lighter, while more tourist attractions return to trading after the winter hibernation. Visiting Europe during this season can be best for those wanting to explore the regions with fewer crowds and at a more calming pace.

Portugal

A tour of Portugal during spring is idyllic for all types of travelers. If the blue skies and mild temperature aren’t enough to tempt you to visit, then we’re sure the attractions on offer may spark curiosity. In the Portuguese capital of Lisbon you have the beautiful botanical gardens, or if staying towards the coast, Porto can ignite your taste buds with fresh cuisines, washed down with traditional port wine. Whether you have 3 - 4 days to visit Europe or the opportunity to tour for 13 days, you can consider combining your Portual tour with a trip to Spain too. As the regions share a border, it makes for visiting two European destinations that much easier in a shorter time frame.

a castle by the water, a river by a city at sunset, and a colourful boat in a river

Summer European Destinations

Months: June / July / August

Sun, sand, and sensational adventures. These three elements make for a delicious visit to Europe. Whether you’re solo traveling or joining a small-group tour, summer destinations in Europe are plentiful. Why not discover our selection of 6-day European tours to get you started?

Italy

Escape to Italy during the summer season and live la dolce vita. The pastel houses reflect the glimmers of cool waters below and a refreshing mid-afternoon with flavorsome gelato… What's not to love? With peak season in full swing, summer can be one of the best times to visit this European destination. Whether you choose to stick to the coastal region, explore the northern countryside or see what the cities have to offer, each part of Italy will welcome you with open arms. You can even look to add a tour of Switzerland to your list too. Neighboring Italy, Switzerland can continue the idyllic summer landscapes, by providing enchanting mountains and lakes to explore. Discover what else you need to know before you embark on your European tour.

boats in blue water, a cathedral, and white buildings in the sun

Fall European Destinations

Months: September / October / November

The changing of the leaves, warm hues of orange hugging you like a scarf, and cooling breezes return to tickle your skin. Touring Europe in fall certainly has its advantages.

England

A trip to England during the fall showcases nature at some of its finest. While habitats are beginning to form ready for the next season, fall allows you to appreciate the beauty at a slower pace. With fewer crowds than that of the summer, England remains open to guests from all over the world. Perhaps The Cotswolds could tempt you for a calming stroll through its cracked alleyways? Or maybe the historical charms a tour of Bath could provide ignites your curiosity? Either option sounds like a perfect European fall escape to us.

a woman standing under an old bridge, a river surrounded by historical buildings, and a man standing in a field of grass

Winter European Destinations

Months: December / January / February
While winter tours are colder than that of other seasons, it doesn’t mean they’re not a good time to visit Europe. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Creating moody atmospheres, our chosen winter destination to visit thrives during this season.

Scotland

The wee bonnie land of Scotland is calling to be toured. Are you ready to pick up? What better way to appreciate the beauty this land has to offer than by choosing to visit in winter. Whether you tour from Edinburgh and see the majestic castles, or head straight to the Scottish Highlands desperate to see a Highland coo, visiting this European destination should certainly be on your list. Our tip? The first rule of wanting to see a Highland coo, is not to ask to see a Highland coo…

a woman standing in the snow in front of a cabin, christmas markets, and a woman standing in a valley

Soak in Europe's Rich Pool of Destinations Throughout the Year

Unlocking the secret to the best time of the year to visit each European destination means you can experience all the seasonal gems these locations have to offer. Once decided on your season and destination, friendly guides are ready to welcome you onboard. Whether planning for a short trip to Europe or your next European solo travel destination, we have the personal experience to help you on your journey. Sign up to our newsletter and never miss out on knowing new destinations or tour dates.