Best Time to Travel to Europe in 2026
Complete analysis by seasons, climate, prices and crowds. Discover when it's ideal to visit each country.
Choosing the right time to visit Europe can make the difference between an unforgettable trip and a frustrating experience. Each season offers its own magic: spring flowers in Amsterdam, Mediterranean summer beaches, autumn colors in Tuscany, or Christmas markets in Vienna.
In this guide, we analyze each season in detail, with specific recommendations by country and our expert opinion after 10 years organizing European trips.
Quick Answer: When is the Best Time?
For most travelers, April-June and September-October are the ideal months. You'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds than peak summer, and better prices.
Analysis by Season
Spring
April - June
Mild temperatures, flowers blooming, fewer tourists than summer.
✅ Pros
- • Pleasant weather (15-22°C)
- • Gardens in full bloom
- • Moderate prices
- • Longer days
⚠️ Cons
- • Possible rain in Northern Europe
- • Some attractions still on winter hours
Summer
July - August
Peak season with warm weather, festivals and longest days.
✅ Pros
- • Best weather (20-35°C)
- • All attractions open
- • Beach destinations perfect
- • Outdoor events
⚠️ Cons
- • Highest prices
- • Large crowds
- • Heat in Southern Europe
- • Need to book ahead
Autumn
September - November
Beautiful fall colors, wine harvest season, fewer tourists.
✅ Pros
- • Mild temperatures
- • Fall foliage
- • Wine festivals
- • Lower prices after September
⚠️ Cons
- • Shorter days
- • Weather less predictable
- • Some beach resorts close
Winter
December - March
Christmas markets, ski resorts, lowest prices for cities.
✅ Pros
- • Lowest prices
- • Christmas markets
- • Ski season
- • No crowds
⚠️ Cons
- • Cold weather
- • Short days
- • Some attractions closed
- • Limited outdoor activities
Best Time by Country
| Country | Best Time | Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| France | Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct | August (Paris empty, coast crowded) |
| Italy | Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct | Jul-Aug (very hot, crowded) |
| Spain | Mar-May, Sep-Nov | Jul-Aug (extreme heat) |
| UK | May-Sep | Nov-Feb (cold, rainy, short days) |
| Greece | May-Jun, Sep-Oct | Jul-Aug (overcrowded islands) |
| Portugal | Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct | Jul-Aug (busy coast) |
| Netherlands | Apr-May (tulips) | Nov-Feb (cold, grey) |
| Austria | Jun-Sep, Dec (ski) | Nov (before ski season) |
Best Prices
- • January-February: Lowest prices (except ski resorts)
- • November: Great deals before Christmas rush
- • March: Early spring, still low season
Fewer Crowds
- • Early April: Before Easter holidays
- • Late September: Kids back in school
- • October: Excellent weather, minimal crowds
Ready to Plan Your European Trip?
Our experts can help you choose the perfect dates and create an unforgettable itinerary.