It’s a fact: European travel is always expensive. Or is it?
Checking your ideal dates beforehand could make a big difference to whether or not you’ll be paying more for that dream holiday in Europe.
What do we mean? You just have to avoid the most popular times. So while the school holidays are out, the Springtime months of March and April are very much in, as are the post-peak summer months of September and October…and some areas are still pleasantly warm even in November!
Travelling off-peak is ideal if you’re an ochlophobe (a fancy word for someone who doesn’t like crowds) or if you simply want to experience the deeper, hidden soul of a place.
There’s just nothing quite like wandering through a deserted beach or taking the best seat in the locally recommended restaurant that never has a table. In fact, why not pack that book you never seem to find time for at home, make yourself a steaming hot chocolate, and get ridiculously cosy too? Another joy of off-peak travel!
Meanwhile, you could well find that those bustling tourist hot spots are much easier to view and absorb, with fewer tourists (and their screaming children!) in tow.
We’ve hand-picked each one of these fabulous European retreats for its beauty, atmosphere – and unusualness, of course – but also because many of them have off-peak rates (and better availability!) that make them well-worth an out-of-season visit.
Author: Nina Jervis
Main image: Lakeside Petzen Glamping | Austria
