If you’re an avid traveller, you know that the magic of Europe never fades. But with record-breaking heat waves and the crush of summer crowds, many seasoned globetrotters are reconsidering the best time to visit.
A top pick is the shoulder season—a golden period from March to early May and September to October. The weather is pleasantly mild during these months, and popular destinations are blissfully uncrowded.
Here’s why the shoulder season is the ideal time to explore Europe.
Save on flights and hotels
One significant advantage of travelling during the shoulder season is the cost savings. Flights and hotels are often significantly cheaper due to decreased demand, making finding accommodation that fits your budget simpler. Plus, the extra savings means you can maximize your budget in other ways.
Unlike peak times, popular hotels near attractions don’t sell out quickly during the off-season, making booking the accommodations you want easier.
Fewer crowds
One great reason to visit during the shoulder season is the smaller crowds. Popular attractions that are usually swamped with tourists become much more accessible.
Imagine standing in front of the Eiffel Tower or strolling through the Colosseum without having to elbow your way through crowds of people. You can take those perfect photos without a crowd in the background—a true luxury for any traveller. Plus, you’ll be able to visit the top attractions without stressing about waiting in long lines to enter.
Visiting during the off-season also helps mitigate the negative environmental impacts of over-tourism. By spreading the number of visitors throughout the year, we lessen the strain on local resources and ecosystems. This practice provides a more enjoyable experience for travellers and supports sustainable tourism efforts, ensuring that these beautiful destinations can be preserved for future generations.
Insight Vacations’ Highlights of Spain is a nine-day tour offering an immersive journey through Spain’s vibrant cities and cultural landmarks. You’ll visit the beautiful city of Granada, home to the stunning Alhambra Palace. In shoulder season, you can fully appreciate its intricate Moorish architecture and serene gardens without the crowds and even get the perfect photo opportunities without tons of people behind you. In Seville, stroll through the charming Santa Cruz Quarter and take in the breathtaking views from the top of the Giralda Tower.
The nine-day Amazing Spain and Portugal tour takes you to equally enchanting destinations. Discover the historic beauty of Lisbon with a visit to the iconic Jeronimos Monastery, where you can marvel at its stunning Manueline architecture in a peaceful setting. In Porto, enjoy a tranquil walk along the picturesque Ribeira district and savour a quiet moment of tasting Port wine in the Vila Nova de Gaia cellars.
Cooler weather for comfortable exploration
If the idea of walking through picturesque cities under a scorching sun makes you cringe, you’ll appreciate the milder temperatures that come with shoulder season. The cooler weather makes it more comfortable to spend time outdoors exploring new destinations and doing any hikes or adventurous activities.
Consider the Best of Germany 12-day guided tour with Insight Vacations, where you can relish the crisp autumn air while exploring historic castles and charming villages. Enjoy strolls through picturesque vineyards, experience the vibrant Oktoberfest celebrations, and savour seasonal culinary delights. Highlights of the tour include visits to the medieval cities of Rothenburg and Heidelberg, a cruise along the Rhine River, and witnessing the grandeur of Neuschwanstein Castle.
Authentic experiences await
One of the advantages of shoulder season travel is the opportunity for authentic interactions. Locals won’t be busy with tourists, so they will have more time to engage, allowing you to have more meaningful experiences beyond typical tourist activities. Imagine wandering through a quaint village market and having the time to chat with the vendors, learning about traditional crafts and local delicacies.
If you join the French Heritage 22-day guided tour across France, you can experience the famous bubbles of the Champagne region, the mustard-making city of Dijon, and the City of Lights‘ sparkling Eiffel Tower. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through the picturesque villages of Provence and delight in gourmet meals that showcase the finest French cuisine. Delve into the rich history of Normandy, visit the D-Day landing beaches and take a selfie next to the stunning Château d’Azay-le-Rideau in the Loire Valley.
On the 11-day Best of Italy, you can experience the vibrant culture of Rome, take a gondola ride through the canals of Venice, and indulge in a cooking class in Florence, immersing yourself in the local culture and traditions. Furthermore, you’ll marvel at the ancient ruins of Pompeii, explore the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, and savour the renowned wines of Tuscany. Discover the artistic masterpieces housed in the Uffizi Gallery, and enjoy the serene beauty of Lake Como, where you can relax and take in the spectacular alpine scenery.
Plan your European adventure
Need some travel advice or help booking your next vacation? Book an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant to plan your Insight Vacations tour for the shoulder season.
CAA Members save $100 per person on all Insight Vacations departures, plus receive an $80 per person experience voucher for all Country Roads Europe and Easy Pace Europe itineraries.*
* Conditions apply. Visit caaneo.ca/deals for details.