Off-season travel in Europe

If you look up the definition of off-season travel, it's the span of time between October and March when Europe quiets down. The off-season varies slightly by country, but a visit to Europe during this time means you can enjoy smaller crowds and lower prices.

In addition to these benefits, insiders know it's the best-kept travel secret. Off-season travel comes with perks like tasting seasonal food specialties, enjoying annual celebrations at local festivals, and seeing a side of your destination you didn't expect to find.

You’ll always have an “in” with us when it comes to skipping the long lines at popular museums and landmarks. An off-season bonus? Fewer people around once you’ve entered. While exploring at a relaxed pace you can make your experience your own, whether that means lingering longer to admire details that catch your eye or capturing them on camera.

When it comes to money matters, let’s just say that your wallet will thank you for choosing an off-season trip. This is the time of year when everything from airfare to something to eat is a better value for your money.

Off-season travel often means smaller groups. The best part is that you’ll still pay the same amount for your tour whether you have 15 or 38 people in your group!

Thanks to our partnerships with top airlines and hotel groups, we’re already able to offer competitive tour prices. In the off-season (a time when things cost a little bit less anyway) the savings get even better—and prices are even lower for you.

Traveling during this time of year definitely comes with opportunities to make your money stretch further. For example, our Christmas market tours are based on existing trips that run all year round, the main difference being that we’ve added visits to Christmas markets. With prices that are comparable to or even lower than the tours that run year-round, you’re getting extra perks for less!

If you prefer it when the temperatures are a bit more temperate, then Europe outside of the summer months could be just what you need. Fall and spring bring weather that’s pleasant—and perfect for getting outside to discover somewhere new. We recommend bringing lots of layers, so you're ready for any weather, and checking the forecast before you set out on tour.

Average temperatures in different countries range, so we recommend thinking about what you prefer when it comes to outdoor weather. In March, for example, the average temperatures are 58 °F in Lisbon, Portugal; 52 °F in Rome, Italy; 46 °F in Paris, France; and 44 °F in Dublin, Ireland.

Winter can bring chilly weather across the continent—and sought-after locales take on a whole new feeling. From snowy streets in Copenhagen to the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower against the dark night sky, there are special moments that only cold-weather adventurers can find. Plus, winter is a wonderful time to bundle up and see a city at its most festive on a Christmas Market or New Year's Eve tour.