While summer is traditionally the most popular time to visit Europe, it doesn’t always deliver the serene experience many travelers expect. This past summer saw widespread protests against overtourism in hotspots like Barcelona and Mallorca, devastating wildfires across Greece during record-breaking heat in June and July, and traffic control measures in Rome and Florence to manage overcrowded streets.
For those seeking a more relaxed and affordable European getaway, the fall shoulder season has quietly emerged as the ideal time to travel. Spanning from mid-October to mid-December, this period is marked by fewer crowds, cooler and more comfortable temperatures in warmer regions, and significantly lower prices for both airfare and accommodations.
Lower Prices for Airfare and Accommodation
According to Hayley Berg, chief economist at travel platform Hopper, “The cheapest time to fly to Europe is typically from mid-October to mid-December.” During these eight to nine weeks, flight prices drop by about 40% compared to peak summer months like June.
Data from Hopper reveals that between October 20 and December 8, the average price for a flight from the U.S. to Europe ranged from $560 to $630 — a 9% decrease from the same period last year and a 5% drop from 2019.
Similarly, the cost of lodging has plummeted. In major European tourist cities such as Amsterdam, Paris, and Munich, accommodation prices in December are down by an average of 27% compared to the summer high season.
Thanksgiving: A Hidden Opportunity for U.S. Travelers
For U.S. travelers not bound by family traditions during the Thanksgiving holiday, this week presents another unique opportunity to visit Europe at bargain prices. As many Americans focus on domestic travel, airfares within the U.S. surge, while international flights to Europe become much more affordable.
“Airlines tend to slash fares to fill seats during Thanksgiving, so it’s a great time for international travel,” said Katy Nastro of the travel website Going.
Nastro also highlighted the period between late November and early December as a particularly good time for securing deals, calling it “the calm before the storm in the winter holiday business.” She advises travelers to book flights before December 16, when prices start to climb as the winter holiday season approaches.
For those seeking a more peaceful, affordable European vacation without the summer frenzy, Europe’s shoulder season offers the perfect blend of lower costs, fewer crowds, and milder weather.
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