Best Times of the Year to Travel in Europe

You want to get the best out of your destination and one of the first questions you should ask is when is the best time to go? Whether you want to avoid the crowds or catch the best festival it can be difficult to decide where to go when! Never fear here is your seasonal guide to visiting those European cities on your list.

Winter breaks in festive cities

• Vienna. – Yes, it is very cold in Vienna during the winter months but that doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors. Historic squares transform into Christmas markets and if you are lucky, are dusted with a sprinkling of snow. Ball season is in full swing in January and February so book ahead and bring your finery for a truly magical evening in Vienna.
• Paris. – Particularly beautiful this season where the area surrounding the Eiffel tower becomes a winter wonderland. Copious markets selling crafts, food and drink and more makes it a great place to do your Christmas shopping too. But the highlight has got to be Ice-skating on the temporary rink overlooking the Eiffel tower. What could be more romantic?

Autumn sun and beer festivals

• Munich. – When it comes to October there is no other place in Europe you will want to visit. If you like beer that is. Host to Oktoberfest, the world-famous beer festival where only certain locally produced high quality beers can be served. This is a busy time in Munich so booking early is advised. Check out the latest deals lastminutecitybreaks.co.uk. Prost!
• Dubrovnik. – The summer crowds have left by September, but the weather is still warm and pleasant. Increasingly popular with tourists the top attractions can get quite busy. However, visiting in Autumn will mean you can enjoy the real Dubrovnik, narrow streets, city walls and beaches, without feeling like you are part of the herd.

Spring cities in bloom

• Amsterdam. -The city starts to open its doors to the outside world again as outdoor cafes, terraces and parks are filled with people once more. The famous national flower the tulip can be found in bloom everywhere you look between the months of March and May. To see spectacular tulip displays visit Keukenhof gardens which is just outside the city.
• Lisbon. – If you are looking for some warm European weather in spring then Lisbon won’t disappoint, with temperatures averaging around 20C. There’s plenty to do here including climbing or riding to the city’s many high viewpoints. Pleasant parks coupled with the lively night time bar scenes creates the perfect city break to take this spring.

Summer fun in the city

• Barcelona. -The perfect combination of bustling nightlife and relaxed beach scene in Spain, Barcelona is the city to visit in the summer months. With plenty of attractions including the lovely architectural works of Gaudi and the entertaining ‘Ramblas’, you can guarantee you won’t be bored in this vibrant city this summer.
• Edinburgh. – Summer in Edinburgh is home to the Fringe festival, a celebration of theatre, comedy, entertainment and the arts. During August, the city turns into a stage and wherever you go you can’t avoid being entertained. The city can get very busy during the festival and prices see an increase at this popular time. But if you want to be in the thick of it this is the place for you.

So, there we have it, a whole year season by season of exploring the cities of Europe. Wow! I bet you can’t wait to get started! So much choice but what is your favorite place to visit this season?

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This post was written by third party writer Tim Baker. All photos are used under creative commons and have been linked to the photographer.