If a summer getaway to Europe isn’t in the cards, read on for the advantages of a trip to Europe in the late season for a local experience at a lower price. The months of November to April are some of the best times to visit Europe. What will you experience in Europe in the Fall or Winter? Think shopping in Rome, snowboarding in the Austrian Alps, sipping hot mulled wine in Vienna’s Christmas markets, or ringing in the New Year in Amsterdam!
English: Christmas Markets in Prague (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
1) More Affordable
Starting in October, airfare and hotel prices begin to drop, as well as guided tour prices. Relax in comfort as you experience the Autumn colors, festive markets and blossoming cities of the continent, and with savings on summer prices.
2) Less Touristy
Enjoy your vacation sans the summer tourist crowds. Enjoy shorter lines, easier access to popular sightseeing spots, and a more local experience. Refer to one of our past featured posts on European touring.
3) Cooler Weather
Hotter cities like Rome and Athens cool off by October, making it more enjoyable for sightseeing. Italians actually prefer to vacation in Rome after summer, when the tourist crowds and hot weather have simmered down.
4) Skiing and Boarding trips
Stay in Hopfgarten, a village in the heart of the Austrian Alps, and spend time skiing and boarding! Mix it up with sleigh rides, ice skating, paragliding, aprés ski, and day trips to nearby cities Salzburg and Innsbruck. Start your tour in London or Hopfgarten. An unforgettable rail journey through the snow-covered Alps on Switzerland’s Glacier Express.
5) Festival & Holidays
Experience the Christmas markets in Germany and Austria with hot mulled wine and gingerbread, or a visit to Germany’s famous Christmas markets for festive shopping and traditional fare. In February, experience the world famous Carnival in Venice or celebrate St. Patty’s Day in Dublin.
6) New Year’s Eve
Ring in the New Year somewhere unforgettable! How about Paris or Amsterdam New Year trips? Plan a winter trip with a departure over New Year’s – spend it in Venice, Berlin, Prague, Barcelona, and other great cities.
What do you think about Europe in the “off” season? Doesn’t sound off to me!
PS, An email from Contiki inspired this post.
