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Best Time and Season to Visit Europe: Complete Guide

Team AckoSept 29, 2025

For most Indians, Europe is that dream destination filled with picture-perfect streets, historic castles, snowy mountains, and endless café culture. But one question always pops up before planning the trip is, when is the best time to visit Europe?

Well, there isn’t just one perfect time. Europe changes its mood with every season, and what suits you will depend on the kind of experience you’re looking for.

This article covers different seasons so that you can decide when you should plan to travel in Europe.

Best

Contents

Best Time to Visit Europe

The best time to visit Europe is during summer. European summers are from June to September, when the weather becomes pleasant. Mediterranean countries in Europe such as Spain and Italy offer balmy weather for thrillseekers like you! Nordic countries including Norway and Sweden are magical travel destinations when the mercury rises.

Best Season to Visit Europe

There are 4 travel "seasons" that can help you identify whether Europe will be crowded or quieter, tourist-wise, before you travel. If you want to travel off the beaten path, Europe is your destination in the off-season. Find out the best season to visit Europe, and plan your itinerary!

Spring

Spring is when Europe gets rid of winter's cold. Parks and gardens spring into bloom with colorful flowers, particularly in nations such as the Netherlands (famous tulip time) and France. The weather is pleasant, neither too cold nor too hot. Therefore, this period is ideal for going sightseeing without feeling exhausted.

This is when outdoor cafés are opened for the season, and cities such as Paris, Rome, and Prague are pleasant without being crowded. Flights and accommodation are generally cheaper than in summer, making it a good option for value tourists.

Summer

In summer in Europe, the days are long, so you can sightsee for hours without the sun going down too early. Beaches in Spain are crowded with sunbathers and the Swiss mountains are teeming with hikers and tourists. It's also festival time, music, food, art, you'll find something going on almost everywhere.

The only drawback is that this is the peak season. Paris, London, and Venice are some of the cities that get immensely crowded, and flights and hotel rates are also the highest. But if you are okay with the rush and are ready to pay a bit more, summer is the ideal time to see Europe's buzz.

Autumn

Autumn in Europe is calm, colourful, and often overlooked. By this time, the summer tourists are gone, but the weather is still pleasant enough for sightseeing. The trees and vineyards turn into shades of red, orange, and gold, making it one of the prettiest times to visit.

If you're a nature lover, photographer, or even just need some quiet holiday time, then autumn is the ideal time. France, Italy, and Spain are particularly appealing for wine tours in these months. And as an added benefit, flights and accommodation tend to be less expensive than in summer. So autumn treats you to wonderful views, empty streets, and good value for money.

Winter

Winter turns Europe into a fairy-tale land. If skiing, snowboarding, or just sipping hot chocolate in a cosy café is your idea of fun, winter is perfect. Note that it does tend to get quite chilly in most areas, and days are shorter. Nevertheless, if you plan ahead and bring suitable winter gear, the season treats you with reduced tourism and an enchanting festive atmosphere.

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Best Month to Visit Europe

Find out more about the best time to go to Europe throughout the year with our month by month guide. With over 50 countries, Europe has something for everything from January through December. You'll find handy tips when you plan a trip to this iconic tourist destination in this article!

Europe in January

Set in winter, and the off-season, January is the month to dress as warm as you can. It's the ideal time to dust off your boots, warm winter jackets, fuzzy scarves and gloves, and possibly umbrellas, raincoat and rainboots to explore Europe during winter. Expect temperatures to average anywhere from -5° to 5° C (20 - 40°F) in January! Prague's Old Town is a picture-perfect place to visit in winter for its beautiful pastel-colored buildings.

Temperature

- 5° to 5° C (20 - 40°F)

Events

New Year's Day parade in London - United Kingdom
Carnival of Venice - Venice, Italy
Vinterjazz Music Festival - Copenhagen, Denmark

Reason to visit

Northern Lights in Norway
Skiing in the Alps, France and Switzerland
Old Town - Prague, Czech Republic

Know before you go

Traveling from India, you may be used to warm weather and be taken aback by how cold European winters are
Pack thermals/warm inner wear, coats and jackets, scarves, gloves, warm caps or hats, socks, and boots
Don't forget to buy travel insurance especially if you've never been to a place as cold as most of Europe
It may be rainy too, so pack rain boots, raincoats, and umbrellas

Europe in February

While the rest of Europe is cold or rainy in February, the Mediterranean countries such as Spain offer warm adventure and fun all year round. Want to experience the busiest party in the world? Travel to Italy or Spain to witness the Carnival in full swing! If you want to soak up the sun at sandy beaches and enjoy water sports during winter, go to Madeira, Portugal.

Temperature

5° C/40° F - 8° C/50° F

Events

Tulip Festival - Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Carnevale di Venezia - Venice, Italy
Swarovski Kristallwelten - Innsbruck, Austria

Why should you visit this month

Pleasant temperature compared to the rest of the year.
The days are sunny and the evenings are perfectly cool.

What to know before you travel

Traveling from India, you may be used to warm weather and be taken aback by how cold European winters are
Pack thermals/warm inner wear, coats and jackets, scarves, gloves, warm caps or hats, socks, and boots
Don't forget travel insurance especially if you've never been to a place as cold as most of Europe

Europe in March

As the weather starts warming up across the continent, locals start to set up shop, hosting some of the finest markets and experiences in the world. If you love cheese, you have to go to the iconic "Cheese Market" that starts this month in the Netherlands. Wear green in Ireland on Saint Patrick's Day so that you don't get pinched!

Temperature

8° C/46° F - 10° C/60° F

Events

Keukenhof Festival - Amsterdam, Netherlands
St Patrick’s Day - Ireland
Cheese Market - Alkmaar, Netherlands

Why should you visit this month

As winter turns into spring, the weather becomes perfect for sunbathing and exploring
Marvel at the beauty of spring, as the leaves and flowers start appearing and blooming

What to know before you travel

Keep your rain gear handy
Explore the great European outdoors
Visit the beaches in Tenerife, Spain

Europe in April

Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons in Europe. April showers bring May's flowers, so be armed with your rain gear! With spring's sun being a regular visitor, you'll get sun all day long. April comes under the low season, except for the Easter weekend.

Temperature

10 - 20°C/60 - 70° F

Events

Budapest Spring Festival, Hungary

Why should you visit this month

Warmer days, pleasant evenings, beaches are fun to enjoy and it's not too hot

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Europe in May

Europe's pleasant summers start peaking from May onwards. May is the ideal month for travelers looking for a pleasantly warm European trip, with romantic evenings where you can wine and dine by yourself or with your significant other. Make sure you pack sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated.

Temperature

10 - 20°C/60 - 70° F

Events

Chelsea Flower Show - London, United Kingdom

Why should you visit this month

May is when spring turns into summer, so you can indulge in outdoor activities and explore on sightseeing tours

What to know before you travel

European nightlife can't be beat
Dine at al fresco cafes and restaurants as you enjoy the warmer weather
Book activities and sightseeing spots well in advance, as peak season starts

Europe in June

As the mercury soars, outdoor activities start to peak in Europe. Try to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day, around midday. If you want to hit the sunny beaches, aim to go in the afternoon. Explore Europe's majestic natural landscapes, by going hiking. Soak up the sun on one of hundreds of European beaches, and enjoy Europe's summer in June.

Temperature

25°C (80°F)

Events

Stars of the White Nights Festival - St. Petersburg’s, Russia
Primavera Sound - Spain
Glastonbury Festival, United Kingdom
Isle of Wight Festival, UK

Why should you visit this month

If you enjoy warm weather and beach vacations, this is the best time for you to travel

What to know before you travel

Hydrate! One of the biggest dangers to travelers is dehydration when traveling to a hot destination during peak summer
Wear loose, light clothing, with a hat or cap on top, that allows air to circulate around your body.

Europe in July

Summer starts peaking this month, so enjoy the pleasant European weather with outdoor activities. This is one of the best months for the adventurer, as almost all of Europe's exciting activities and events happen this month.

Temperature

22°C (70°F)

Events

Ultra Europe is a multi-venue outdoor electronic music festival - Split, Croatia
Barcelona Beach Festival, Barcelona
International Festival of Lyric Art

Why should you visit this month

Schools are out for the summer holidays, make the most of it at outdoor attractions and heritage sites across Europe

What to know before you travel

Hydrate! One of the biggest dangers to travelers is dehydration when traveling to a hot destination during peak summer
Peak season is usually more expensive for flights, accommodation and sightseeing. Book tickets in advance to avoid the rush and crowds

Europe in August

August in Europe is the height of peak summer when the weather is pleasant across all European countries. Activities, heritage sites, and food festivals abound, so be sure to enjoy the fun that Europe offers this month. Enjoy outdoor sunshine with festivals, and museums for heritage and art in the afternoons and evenings.

Temperature

30°C (80°F)

Events

La Tomatina festival - last Wednesday in August

Why should you visit this month

Exciting heritage monuments to visit during the day
Beautiful museums to go to in the afternoons

What to know before you travel

Hydrate! One of the biggest dangers to travelers is dehydration when traveling to a hot destination during peak summer

Europe in September

As summer makes way for autumn, September is the ideal time to travel to Europe. Enjoy your European holiday as locals return to their hometowns after their own summer holidays to host local music and food festivals, while basking in the pleasant autumn days and afternoons.

Temperature

28°C (80°F)

Events

The La Mercé Festival of Spain

Why you should travel this month

Affordable hotel and travel prices
Off-season is less crowded and you can find the best deals

What to know before you travel

Enjoy pleasant weather and beautiful views across Europe

Europe in October

Autumn in Europe is magical, when summer gives way to winter in autumn. Catch the splendor of the landscape changing from green to yellows and oranges! October is for Oktoberfest across Germany, along with spectacular White Nights known as Nuit Blanche in Paris.

Temperature

28°C (80°F)

Events

Oktoberfest - Across Germany
La Nuit Blanche - Paris, France
Alba White Truffle Festival of Italy - Alba, Italy

Why should you visit this month

Europe's winter begins in October, get ready to enjoy outdoor events and cooler nights

What to know before you travel

The sun still shines for around 10 hours every day, but not as aggressive as summer. Have fun night and day in October!

Europe in November

The best time of the year to visit Europe is in November. However, if you're traveling from India, you'll be surprised by how cold the region can be, so pack extra warm. Right in the low season, November offers you cheaper travel and accommodation prices across the continent. You can enjoy historic sites and activities with almost no crowd especially if you enjoy a leisurely trip.

Temperature

26°C (78°F)

Events

Swedish House Mafia in Finland
Italian Opera Season, Italy
Bonfire Night, UK

Why should you visit this month

Enjoy the beautiful autumn to winter seasonal change across landscapes in Europe

What to know before you travel

Winter is almost here, make sure you pack warmer clothes, even though the sun is out for around 10 hours daily,

Europe in December

It's the most magical time of the year in Europe! A winter wonderland across many of its countries, Europe is a winter wonderland postcard. If you are a Bollywood fan, venture out to Switzerland for snow-capped mountains, a la DDLJ.

Temperature

-1 to -3°C (30° - 40°F)

Why should you visit this month

Step into DDLJ Simran and Raj's shoes at Gstaad, Switzerland!

What to know before you travel

Pack warmer clothes, socks, and a scarf for cooler nights that hit around

Cheapest Time to Visit Europe

Europe's low season, from November to March is also winter in Europe. While it may be beautiful while you're bundled up in warm jackets, cozy boots, winter in Europe isn't exactly the ideal time to visit. However, winter may be the cheapest time to visit Europe. You can get to most historical landmarks faster, as there are fewer tourists than there are in summer and autumn.

Expensive Time to Visit Europe

The most expensive time to visit Europe is also the best time. The European summers are the holidaymaker's favourite, and run from June to September. Mediterranean countries in Europe, such as Spain and Italy, offer balmy weather for thrillseekers like you! Nordic countries, including Norway and Sweden, are excellent travel destinations during the summer.

Iconic Travel Destinations in Europe

When you travel to Europe, don't miss these iconic tourist destinations and European hallmarks! These are the most travelled to or visited events and destinations.

Destination	Key Attractions
London	Big Ben
France	Eiffel Tower
Spain	Barcelona's iconic Mediterranean architecture and weather
Italy	Lake Como, Venetian Canals
Norway	Northern Lights
Germany	Autobahn for Best Driving Experience, Neuschwanstein Castle that inspired the Sleeping Beauty castle
Netherlands	Tulip Gardens, Cheese Marke
Belgium	Finest Belgian chocolates
Romania	Bran Castle, which inspired Dracula
Iceland	Icelandic Glaciers, Diamond Beach
Scotland	Scottish Highlands, Infamous lochs, home to the fabled "Loch Ness Monster"
Portugal	Seafood and beaches in Lisbon
Denmark	Nyhavn, Copenhagen
Switzerland	Iconic DDLJ spot in Gstaad
Bosnia	Bazaars in Mostar
Greece	Santorini and Mykonos Islands, the Acropolis in Athens
Turkey	Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia

Getting Around Europe

With one of the oldest public transport systems in the world, it's convenient and easy to travel around Europe! Although it may not be cheap, you can find some mode of transport to get you around town, whether you're going to dine or explore archeological sites.

Bus
Tram/trolley
Car
Train
Taxi/ridesharing
Scooter

Quick Tips for Indian Travellers Visiting Europe

Here are some important tips you should keep in mind:

• Visa planning: Apply for your Schengen visa well in advance, especially for summer trips.

• Clothing: Pack layers in spring and autumn. Carry proper thermal wear if going in winter.

• Food: Vegetarian food is easier to find in big cities, but carry ready-to-eat packs for remote areas.

• Travel insurance: An absolute necessity before going overseas. It protects against medical emergencies and is also helpful in the event of lost luggage or delayed flights. Insurers such as ACKO even provide easy, digital plans that ensure a speedy and hassle-free process.

Final Words

Europe is not one best-time destination; it depends on the type of holiday you are looking for. Spring is bright and colourful, summer is festive and packed, autumn is peaceful and golden, and winter is balmy and festive.

There's therefore always a good time to suit your mood and budget when you visit Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Europe for snow?

If you want to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or just playing in the snow, December to February is the best season. Countries like Switzerland, Austria, and France have popular ski resorts that come alive in winter.

How cheap is a vacation in Europe?

Generally, late autumn (November) and winter (January–February) are the cheapest months, excluding Christmas and New Year.

Is summer too hot for Indians in Europe?

It gets hot in Southern Europe (Spain, Italy, Greece), but Northern and Central Europe are mild.

Do I need to buy travel insurance for Europe?

Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for a Schengen visa and covers you against unforeseen expenses.

Can the Northern Lights be seen in Europe?

Yes, go to Norway, Iceland, or Finland in winter for your best opportunity.

Is Europe good for family travel?

Yes, Europe has plenty of family-friendly spots, from Disneyland Paris to scenic train journeys in Switzerland. Summer and spring are especially great for travelling with kids, as most attractions are open and the weather is comfortable.

How many days are enough for a Europe trip?

It depends on how much you want to see. A short 7–10 day trip can cover one or two countries. If you want a relaxed holiday with multiple countries, plan at least 2–3 weeks.

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