Hidden Gems of Europe: Off-Season Travel Guide
Europe has become the destination of choice for many Americans looking for a trip full of adventure, history, and culture. Trends such as “Euro Summer” have added to the allure for travelers to visit during the peak summer months of July and August, but visiting during this time means higher prices and larger crowds, which can lead to frustration for many travelers. However, with some schedule flexibility, visiting during the shoulder season can strike the perfect balance between affordability and peace, while still having the trip of a lifetime.
What is Shoulder Season and When is it?
Shoulder season falls on either side of the peak season, typically in mid-to-late spring to early-mid fall. The length of the season usually varies depending on the country and its location, but these seasons typically offer the best balance for travelers.
The spring, typically April to early June, promises travelers warmer weather, lower crowd levels, and the benefit of seeing nature come back to life with blooming flowers and sunnier days.
Fall, between September to early November, can mean more temperate weather, fall foliage, festivals, and perfect temperatures for outdoor activities such as hiking.
The Pros and Cons of Shoulder Season
Visiting Europe during the shoulder season has many benefits and drawbacks to consider before planning your dream vacation.
Some of the pros include:
Lower crowd levels: Since summer is a more popular time of year for tourists, visiting during the shoulder season means less time in lines and more time visiting popular attractions.
More affordable: Often hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and tours are less expensive versus during the peak summer months.
Milder temperatures: While many love the hot weather, traveling during the shoulder season is perfect for travelers looking for ideal temperatures, without being too hot or too cold.
Some of the cons include:
Unpredictable weather: More temperate temperatures can lead to a little more variability with the weather. Packing layers for cooler mornings or rainy days is important no matter the season, but especially during the shoulder season.
Closures and reduced hours: Some popular attractions, transportation options, or restaurants may operate on a different schedule than normal. Hours for museums may be more limited, and seasonal closures are more common.
Some cities may be too quiet: While lower crowds can be a benefit, some locations may be too sleepy for travelers looking to connect with other travelers or locals.
5 of Europe’s Best Hidden Gems to Visit During Shoulder Season
While visiting popular hotspots such as Rome, Paris, London, and Berlin during the shoulder season is magical, venturing off the beaten track during this time is perfect to experience some of the best places in Europe. Here are five places you should consider.
Valbona Valley, Albania – A Secret Gem in the Balkans
While the Balkans have gained popularity over the past few years, the Valbona Valley in Albania’s Accursed Mountains is still a location perfect for travelers looking for a slower pace while connecting with nature.
Hikers will love exploring the approximately 17km long Valbona to Theth trail. With panoramic mountain views, rivers, waterfalls, and blooming wildflowers, this region tucked away in Albania is excellent for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The best time to visit the Valbona Valley is either between May and June or from September to October for the most ideal hiking temperatures.
Transylvania, Romania – The Perfect Medieval Region for Halloween Lovers
Transylvania in Romania is an idyllic medieval region with castles, hearty food, and forests set in the mountains straight out of a fairytale. Dracula lovers will love visiting Sighișoara, the fairytale town believed to be Dracula’s birthplace. Visitors in the fall can take advantage of the changing leaves and hike in the Carpathian Mountains which are part of three major river basins (the Danube, the Dniester, and the Vistula).
Other towns to visit include Brașov and Sibiu, with nearby castles, great wine, and delicious cuisine to enjoy throughout your visit.
The most ideal time to visit is between May and June or September and October for mild weather with lower crowds.
The Lofoten Islands, Norway – An Ideal Arctic Escape
Travelers looking for a rugged Nordic getaway should look no further than the Lofoten Islands. This archipelago in Norway is known for its dramatic scenery, sleepy fishing villages, beaches, and untouched land. Visiting during the late spring or early fall still means longer days, perfect for maximizing your time in this jaw-dropping location. Spend your days hiking in the mountains, rock climbing, surfing, and cycling around the various islands.
The best time to visit is from late May to June or in September (for the best chance of possibly seeing the Northern Lights).
Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany – Castles and Mountains Galore
Located near the Germany and Czech border, Saxon Switzerland National Park is one of the most underrated natural wonders in the region. Picture yourself hiking through winding forests, opening up to stunning mountain views and sandstone cliffs. Visit the famous Bastei Bridge, a stone bridge worthy of a fairytale.
Fall is the perfect time to hike through the national park and explore the region with the changing fall leaves as a backdrop. Stay in nearby Dresden for the city conveniences and nightlife and take the train and bus to one of the many hiking trails in the national park.
Saxon Switzerland National Park is best visited between May and June or in September and October for the most ideal temperatures and hiking conditions.
Lake Bohinj, Slovenia – The Alternative to Lake Bled
Slovenia is known for Lake Bled, but if you are looking for a quieter alternative with the same crystal-clear water and mountain peaks, head to Lake Bohinj, only 30 minutes away by car. Despite being so close to Lake Bled, Lake Bohinj has only a fraction of the crowds with many of the same offerings.
Nature lovers will love swimming, kayaking, hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities. Either stay at a cozy hotel on the lake or stay in nearby Ljubljana, the country’s charming capital city.
If you want to see spring blooms with lower crowds, be sure to visit from May to June or see the fall colors in September.
No matter what vacation experience you are looking for, traveling to Europe during the shoulder season not only helps you to save money (for more vacations!) but also allows you to trade busy crowds for a more authentic and personal experience.
Whether you are looking to explore the charming cities in Romania, hike through the mountains in Germany, or visit charming fishing villages in Norway, being flexible with the time of year you travel will allow you to unlock so many hidden gems that are not explored as often.
If you are ready for your next European adventure, contact the team at Avondale Travel. Our team is ready to customize your vacation to suit your interests and allow you to uncover more hidden gems.
