Europe is a continent that is rich in history, culture, and diversity. With so many incredible destinations to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go.
However, the time of year you visit can greatly influence your experience, as different regions and cities offer unique attractions and weather conditions based on the season.
In this article, I make recommendations on the best places to visit in Europe, depending on the time of year, so that you can make the most of your trip no matter the season.
Where to Go in Europe – Part 1
Spring: Alsace Region, France
Late spring in Europe is beautiful almost everywhere, but especially in smaller touristy towns which have emerged from the cool winter with freshly planted spring flowers lining the streets or, in the case of Alsace, lining the canals.
Strasbourg is the capital of the region and where you’ll find the most spring festivals and events but the prettier and more food-oriented Alsatian town is Colmar.
The region is also known for white wine and cider. Add Riquwihr to Strasbourg and Colmar for the perfect spring food and wine road trip.
Alternative Spring Destination: Keukenhof
Call me a nature lover, but I just can’t get enough of visiting parks, gardens, and flower shows.
If you’re looking for a pretty place to be in the spring, the Netherlands is definitely a must-see, especially when you go out to the countryside and see the tulip fields.
Better yet, check out the famous Dutch tulip festival at Keukenhof for a seriously gorgeous display of tulips.
Summer: Belarus and Ukraine
Belarus and Ukraine can get bitterly cold and gloomy outside of summer, so for the best chance of blue skies and some warmth, plan your trip for the summer.
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Update: I loved visiting Minsk a few years ago but I now feel that it’s not an appropriate destination given the current events and their involvement in the invasion of Ukraine.
Instead, I suggest saving for a trip to Ukraine once the situation has stabilised and the war has ended. Ukraine has a rich culture and history, and travelling there will support the country’s recovery efforts.
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Minsk was sunny and perfect for my entire 5-day visit this summer. The city is quite spread out, so not so great for walking, but with cheap Ubers, it’s easy to get around to visit the different neighbourhoods, sprawling parks, and Soviet monuments.
I still haven’t written about my trip to Minsk but it was easily my favourite destination last year. If you want to spend time outside of Minsk, you might want to apply for a visa in advance, as the five-day visa-free scheme might not give you enough time.
Minsk isn’t cheap to get to, but you can balance costs by spending the rest of your trip in Ukraine, possibly the cheapest country in Europe right now.
Due to visa issues, I sadly have not been to Ukraine but heard great things, especially about Kyiv, Lviv and Odesa, and less-visited destinations in Ukraine.
Alternative Summer Destination: Norway
Norway is a beautiful country that is best visited in the summer, unless your plans include visiting the bustling city of Oslo or experiencing the Northern Lights.
If you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders, I recommend visiting Bergen, Alesund, or the Lofoten Islands.
To truly immerse yourself in the stunning countryside, consider taking one of the incredible train journeys that offer breathtaking views.
Autumn: The Western Balkans
My favourite time of the year to travel in Europe is right after the summer holidays come to a close and most tourists have returned to their home country.
The Western Balkans is my pick for autumn, a great choice if want to put off winter for a little longer, with the warm weather continuing well into October and sometimes November.
The Western Balkans includes Albania (consider a road trip along the Albanian Riviera), Montenegro (I highly recommend Kotor), and Croatia (you can’t go wrong anywhere) plus, I’d throw in their northern neighbour Slovenia, just because it’s also a fantastic autumn destination.
Alternative Autumn Destination: The French Riviera
The same principle holds true for the South of France and the French Riviera.
Once the peak tourist season has passed, usually from mid-September onward, you can enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful experience, with fewer crowds and the less hustle and bustle.
Despite the cooler temperatures, it’s still warm enough to swim and enjoy the outdoor cafes and dining.
Winter: Golden Triangle – Prague, Vienna, Budapest
The Golden Triangle, made up of Prague, Vienna and Budapest, is the quintessential itinerary for those exploring Central Europe.
If you’re a fan of chilly winter weather and the possibility of snow, this route is unbeatable, especially for those looking to experience some of the world’s best Christmas markets.
Each of these cities has its own unique charm and character, offering a wealth of historical, cultural, and modern activities.
There’s something for everyone, from museums, festivals, classical music concerts, and events to everything you’d expect from a major city.
Prague is renowned for its stunning beauty, Vienna boasts exceptional museums and coffee shops, while Budapest offers great value with a thriving nightlife scene.
Alternative Winter Destination: Europe’s Big Cities
During the off-season, many smaller destinations close down to tourists for the winter and there is a decrease in activities and events.
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option and still want to experience a lively atmosphere, consider visiting one of Europe’s larger cities.
You’ll find a variety of indoor attractions such as shops, cafes, and museums to enjoy, and the presence of a larger population provides a bustling atmosphere even in the colder months.
So, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and the cold, head to a larger city for your winter getaway.
There are many big cities to visit in Europe during the winter months. Some of my favourites include:
- Paris, France: As my former home, I can confirm that Paris is magical in the winter, with its twinkling lights, holiday markets, and warm cafes and bakeries. Explore famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre Museum. You’ll never run out of things to do.
- Berlin, Germany: Berlin has a rich cultural scene, with world-class museums, art galleries, and music venues, as well as Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks, and cosy restaurants. I’ve gone to several concerts in Berlin and highly recommend taking a food tour.
- London, England: London is a vibrant city that never stops, and the winter season is no exception. Explore the city’s famous attractions, such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London and the British Museum. Don’t miss a visit to the West End, the heart of London’s theatre district, which is home to some of the most iconic theatres and performance spaces in the world.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands: Amsterdam is a charming city that comes alive in the winter with its charming canals, historic buildings, and cosy cafes. Visit famous museums like the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, and take a stroll through the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods. One of the most popular neighbourhoods is the Jordaan, which is known for its picturesque canals, charming streets, and bustling markets. Or try De Pijp, which is famous for its bustling street life, ethnic food scene, and cool cafes.
- Rome, Italy: Rome is a city filled with history and culture, and the winter months offer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere to explore its famous landmarks, such as the Colosseum, the Vatican, and the Trevi Fountain. Take a stroll through the historic streets, sample the delicious Italian cuisine, and warm up with a cup of coffee in one of the city’s lovely cafes.
If you’re looking for more ideas, this popular post on the best places to visit in Europe might help.