Best Time to Travel in Europe and Hidden Gems You Have To See

Europe is somewhere that everyone must visit at least once in their life. With such varied countries to travel to, you’ll find that there really is something for everyone on this continent. One of the most common questions we receive about traveling to Europe is when would be the best time of the year to visit. Keep reading to discover when to plan your next European vacation and the hidden gems you have to see on your travels.

Best Time To Travel To Europe

While you can visit Europe at any time of the year, there are certainly some times of the year that are better than others. Europe is a large and varied continent, so naturally, the advice we share here won’t necessarily apply to each country.

In general, the winter months can be very cold to visit most of Europe, particularly when you head into Northern Europe. That being said, it’s one of the most picturesque times of the year for a vacation. You can enjoy visiting Christmas markets or skiing in the Alps, both of which are at the top of many people’s bucket lists.

The summer is a great time to visit much of Europe, but it can be very hot in certain parts of the continent. This is especially important to consider if you are looking to do long days of sightseeing in cities such as Rome or Barcelona.

These places would be best visited in the spring or fall months, as you’ll enjoy moderate temperatures, which make it ideal for walking around these cities. The summer is a good time for a beach vacation in Europe, with countries including Greece and Croatia being at the top of our recommendation list for a summer trip.

As you can see, you can visit Europe at any time of the year, but it all depends on what you are looking to get out of your trip. Many visitors to Europe opt to pair a couple of destinations together in one trip, which allows you to experience a couple of different climates and cultures in one go. This is a great way to maximize your vacation time and reduce flight costs while also making for an adventure that you will remember forever.

Hidden Gems You Have to See in Europe

Now that you have a good idea about where to visit in Europe at what time of the year, you might be wondering where would be the best places to add to your trip itinerary. These are a few of the top overlooked destinations, which even someone who’s been to Europe dozens of times before will be excited to visit.

The Azores

If you are planning a trip to help you escape reality and connect with nature, The Azores are the perfect place to visit. They are a great add-on to a trip to Portugal, and you can easily travel here from the mainland.

You’ll enjoy hiking, exploring the beautiful scenery, and heading out on a whale-watching tour. It’s also a great destination for anyone looking for a more sustainable trip, as The Azores are constantly recognized for their eco-friendly tourism initiatives.

Helsinki, Finland

Skip popular tourist cities such as London and Paris and head further north to Helsinki. This city is packed with hidden treasures, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Scandinavian culture. Make sure you take part in the Finnish tradition of a sauna here or enjoy learning more about the country’s culture and heritage at the various attractions around the city.

Devon, United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is one of the most popular spots for people to fly into to start their European adventure. While you’ll no doubt spend a few days in London, Bath, or Liverpool, consider heading further south to Devon.

In the summer months, this part of the country enjoys a slightly warmer climate than the rest of England, making it ideal for a relaxing beach break or surfing in Torquay. You’ll enjoy delicious meals of fresh seafood after a busy day exploring the local area, as well as charming accommodation options throughout the area.

Skiathos, Greece

The Greek islands attract visitors from around the world each summer, who are looking to relax, party, and enjoy the Greek culture. However, many of the islands have become incredibly packed over recent years, making it hard to find a more peaceful vacation destination.

Skiathos has over 60 beaches, including the world-famous Koukounariés beach. As well as spending the day at the beach, you’ll enjoy some great hiking opportunities, which will allow you to get another perspective of the island.

Prague, Czech Republic

Head to Prague for the perfect weekend break destination, where you can enjoy trying the local food and beer and exploring the city on foot. Prague is a great option for anyone who lives in Europe and is just looking for a cheap weekend away. It’s a very affordable city, with accommodation options to suit everyone’s budget and interests. You can easily walk everywhere to see more of the city’s historical sights, and there’s plenty to fill two or three days here. It’s also a very popular city with expats, so you might want to consider a longer stay if you have the ability to work remotely currently.

Final Thoughts

Europe is somewhere that you will truly never get tired of exploring. There are so many amazing cities and destinations to visit, so each time you come back, you’ll find something new to see and do. We recommend thinking very carefully about the time of the year you visit based on where you are planning to stay.

While the winter months can be far too cold in some regions, they are absolutely stunning in the mountains and throughout Scandinavia. By doing a little research and planning ahead of time, you can be sure to make the most of your time in Europe and enjoy exploring some of the hidden gems that this part of the world is home to.