A Complete Monthly Guide to Europe: Weather,
Events, and Best Things to Do
Europe is a fantasy to all travelers- whether it is enjoying the romance in the streets of Paris, basking in the Mediterranean sun, skiing in the alpine mountains or sightseeing centuries-old traditions at festive markets. However, the more important question is: When is the best time to visit Europe?
It all depends on what you desire: snow-capped adventures, blossoms in spring, beaches in summer, or cool Christmas fare. To make it easier to plan, here is a month-by-month guide to Europe with helpful information on weather, events, festivals, the top places, as well as the activities to indulge in.
Europe in January
Weather in January
The weather of Europe in January may be described as cold and snowy in the North and East of the continent (0 °C -5 °C) and mild in the South (5 °C -12 °C), which is suitable in off-season travel.
Events & Festivals in Europe in January
- New Year Celebrations: Paris, Berlin, and London have fireworks and colored street parties to welcome the New Year.
- Festa della Befana (Italy): The Festa della Befana is an Italian festival held on Jan 6 (Epiphany) in Venice and other towns with a market, parade and sweets distributed to children.
- Epiphany Festivals: Spain and Italy celebrate the Epiphany with their colorful festivals. The Parade of the Three Kings is the event that one should not miss in Spain.
- Winter Carnivals: Along with the Harbin Ice Festival in China, other winter festivals include carvings of snow in Lapland and ice sculpting festivals in European cities, as well as Christmas markets that last into the same month.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in January
Where should I go to travel in January in Europe? Here are some of the top places to visit in Europe in January, with loads of fun during the winter months:
- Switzerland (ski resorts in Zermatt & St. Moritz)
- Norway (Northern Lights in Tromsø)
- Prague & Budapest for charming winter vibes
Things to Do: Ski in the Alps, spas in Budapest, and ice-skating in Vienna and Northern Lights tours.
Europe in February
Weather in February
Europe in February is still chilly in the north and east (0°C–8°C), and it is still snowing frequently. The weather in Southern Europe is warmer and more of early spring (6-13 °C), which is great to visit in a calmer mode.
Events & Festivals in Europe in February
- Carnival Season:
February is Carnival month throughout Europe. One of the greatest traditional things in the world is in Venice, Italy with exaggerated and colorful masks and costumes during celebrations. Similar celebrations occur in Nice (France) and Cologne (Germany). - Valentine’s Day (Feb 14):
Paris, Vienna, and Prague are romantic cities to visit when it is freezing outside, drinking hot coffee and then taking in the scenery on a stroll in the city. - Fête du Citron (France):
This lemon festival is held every winter in Menton on the French Riviera with citrus-themed floats, sculptures, and gardens, delightful in the winter skies.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in February
What to do in February in Europe? These are the best places in Europe to visit in February:
- Venice, Italy – To the world-famous Carnival
- Tromsø, Norway – Northern Lights at their peak
- Paris, France – A dreamy Valentine’s Day escape
- Grindelwald, Switzerland – Great skiing and Snowboarding spot
Things to Do: Watch Carnival processions, ski in the Alps, chase Northern Lights, explore the romantic streets of old towns in Europe, and visit less-crowded sights in more southern cities.
Europe in March
Weather in March
March in Europe and temperatures vary between 5°C to 12°C. The climate of Northern Europe is still cool, whereas in Southern Europe it begins to warm up, which makes it a good time to travel.
Events & Festivals in Europe in March
- St. Patrick’s Day (March 17):
Venerate Irish culture through parades, music, and partying in Dublin, the cradle of the celebration of St. Patrick. - Spring Equinox (March 20–21):
Head to Stonehenge, UK, where visitors gather to mark the official start of spring with ancient traditions and sunrise ceremonies.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in March
Looking for the best places in Europe to visit in March? The following are the season’s top picks:
- Dublin, Ireland – Great in terms of Irish culture and celebrating St. Patrick.
- Amsterdam, Netherlands – As the tulip season begins in late March
- Seville, Spain – fine mild weather and early spring atmosphere
Things to Do: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, ride a bicycle across colorful tulip fields in Amsterdam or in the streets of Seville, and visit the main sightseeing points without waiting in long lines.
Europe in April
Weather in April
Europe in April is synonymous with spring in full swing with average temperatures of 10°C to 18°C over most parts of Europe. The warmer weather, longer days, and more blooms and green make it perfect to enjoy outdoors.
Events & Festivals in Europe in March
- Easter Celebrations:
Easter traditions and celebrations are a hallmark in several countries; in Seville and Rome, there are grand processions, in Greece, there are traditional feasts, and everywhere, it is a religious and cultural holiday. - Tulip Festival (Netherlands):
Travel to the Keukenhof Gardens and the surrounding rural area to see one of the most beautiful flower shows in Europe with the tulips reaching their peak in mid-April.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in March
Having trouble choosing the best places in Europe to visit in April? Such spots are prominent.
- Keukenhof Gardens, Netherlands – To see the peak tulip season
- Paris, France – Enjoy Cherry blossom and pleasant weather
- Seville, Spain – Witness the amazing religious festivities of Semana Santa (Holy Week)
Things to Do: Photo touring in a sea of tulips in Holland, sipping wine in the vineyards of France, enjoying picnics in London’s parks, and celebrating Easter the way the locals do in Southern Europe.
Europe in May
Weather in May
Europe in May is subject to pleasurable spring weather, with temperatures between 15°C to 22°C. The end of winter is one of the most amazing times to visit – perfect sightseeing, festivals and wilderness activities without the summer crowds.
Events & Festivals in Europe in May
- Cannes Film Festival (France):
A glamorous international event on the French Riviera attracting filmmakers, celebrities, and cinephiles from around the world. An elegant global festival that occurs on the French Riviera and which brings together filmmakers, celebrities and film lovers. - Primavera Sound Festival (Barcelona):
One of the best music festivals in Europe, which gathers famous artists and music admirers across Barcelona. - Chelsea Flower Show (London):
The Garden show, which hosts extravagant floral shows and landscape design exhibits in full spring flower bloom.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in May
Looking to know the best places in Europe to visit in May? These locations are fabulous.
- Barcelona, Spain – This classic combination of festivals and beaches and city life makes it a perfect blend.
- Cinque Terre, Italy –Hike and explore before the peak of summer rush
- Athens, Greece – You can get hot days to explore the ancient ruins, but not too hot.
Things to Do: Popular festivals around the world, hikes at Cinque Terre walking trails, relax on Mediterranean beaches, and explore the historic core of Greece, as long as the weather is fine.
Europe in June
Weather in June
Europe in June is the beginning of summer, with sunny, warm days. Most parts of the region have temperatures between 20°C to 28°C, suitable for outdoor activities and beach holidays.
Events & Festivals in Europe in June
Glastonbury Festival (UK):
The most iconic music festival in the world takes place in the countryside of England, accompanied by gigantic performances and other cultural experiences.
Midsummer Celebrations (Scandinavia):
In Sweden, Norway and Finland, people celebrate the longest day of the year by lighting bonfires, having meals, dancing, and wearing flower crowns.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in June
Searching for the best places in Europe to visit in June? These destinations are suitable
- Santorini, Greece – Widely popular because of its sunsets and the view of the mountainsides
- Dalmatian Coast, Croatia –This area is best for island hopping and beach time
- Stockholm, Sweden – Enjoy genuine Midsummer celebrations and endless daylight in Stockholm, Sweden
Things to Do:
Spend your days lazing on sunny beaches, take boat trips in Croatia, go to outdoor concerts and soak up the heady start-of-summer airs throughout Europe.
Europe in July
Weather in July
July is the height of summer in Europe and it will be very hot and sunny. The weather is generally between 25°C to 35°C, especially in the southern part of the world- great for people who go to the beach and attend festivals.
Events & Festivals in Europe in July
- Running of the Bulls (Pamplona, Spain):
A high-adrenaline traditional activity, which, as part of the San Fermin Festival, attracts thrill-seekers as well as sightseers worldwide. - Montreux Jazz Festival (Switzerland):
A world-famous music festival on Lake Geneva with worldwide-renowned musicians in a beautiful alpine environment. - Bastille Day (France, July 14):
France’s national day is celebrated through parades, fireworks activities and also cultural parties with a lot of celebration, particularly in Paris.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in July
The following are some of the best places in Europe to visit in July:
- Amalfi Coast, Italy – Ideal, scenic drive and a beachtime destination
- Ibiza, Spain – The ultimate party destination with the world-renowned beach clubs
- Edinburgh, Scotland – Nicely cooler weather, and summer’s beautiful scenery
Things to Do:
Spend time sunbathing on the beaches of the Mediterranean, go to music and cultural festivals, embark on a scenic voyage along the coast of Amalfi and enjoy long and enjoyable summers all over Europe.
Europe in August
Weather in August
The Southern parts of Europe in August are typically very hot with the temperature usually going above 30°C, whereas the Northern part of Europe is not so hot and is suitable for exploring outdoors.
Events & Festivals in Europe in August
- La Tomatina (Spain):Become a participant in the world’s biggest tomato fight that is held in Buñol, Spain, every last Wednesday in August: an unforgettable and messy, but extremely fun experience!
- Edinburgh Fringe Festival (Scotland):
The largest arts festival in the world, with comedy, theater, music, and street performances in the city throughout the month of August.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in August
Where are the best places to go in Europe in August? These are some of the highlights:
- Scotland -Celebrate energetic festivals and cool weather
- Norway – Ideal destination to go fjord and scenic nature cruises
- The French Riviera-Smart beaches, fancy hotels, and a rocking nightlife
Things to Do: Participate in La Tomatina, hike fjords in Norway, travel up and down dramatic coastlines, or enjoy the chic beaches of the French Riviera, downing wine.
Europe in September
Weather in September
Europe in September is early fall, with the weather mild, pleasurable weather and with high temperatures varying between 15°C to 22°C. It has an advantage: It is the season when it is not too warm to spend time outside, but not many visitors are around.
Events & Festivals in Europe in September
- Oktoberfest Begins (Munich, Germany):
Although it begins in late September, this is the most popular beer festival in the world and it is a season kick-starter filled with traditional Bavarian music, food and of course, beer tents. - Grape Harvest Festivals (France & Italy):
Harvest grapes in Tuscany or Bordeaux, follow the grapes throughout the vineyard, taste the local wine and join the local celebrations.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in September
Some of the most popular destinations to travel to in Europe in September:
- Munich, Germany – To enjoy the real Oktoberfest.
- Tuscany, Italy – Enjoy the wine harvest and golden countryside
- Santorini, Greece – A less crowded setting with breathtaking sunsets
Things to Do: Join lively beer festivals, go on wine tasting tours, and enjoy sightseeing in cooler weather with more relaxed crowds across major European cities.
Europe in October
Weather in October
Europe in October is cool and brisk with temperatures being around 10°C to 18°C. Fall is in full splendor, which means it is the best time to enjoy city breaks and view the scenery, and attend cultural events.
Events & Festivals in Europe in October
Halloween in Transylvania (Romania):
Halloween in the mythical home of Dracula, where haunted tours, haunted castles, and Halloween parties are held, all at Bran Castle.
Amsterdam Dance Event (Netherlands):
It is a significant electronic music festival that attracts the best world DJs and music enthusiasts to attend five days of constant partying and conferences.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in October
Here are some of the best places in Europe to visit in October:
- Prague, Czech Republic – Fall is a wonderful time to explore romantic streets
- Budapest, Hungary – Relax in thermal baths surrounded by cool air
- Scottish Highlands – Enjoy the stunning fall colors and scenic rugged sceneries
Things to Do: Visit the Dracula Castle in Romania, go to Halloween parties, hot thermal baths, and take a ride on the scenic trains through the colorful autumn countryside of Europe.
Europe in November
Weather in November
November is when the cold starts setting in Europe with an average temperature of between 5°C and 10°C. Northern Europe could be covered with early snow, whereas, Southern Europe could be relatively mild and quiet.
Events & Festivals in Europe in November
- Guy Fawkes Night (UK, Nov 5):
Mark with bonfires, fireworks and parades all over the UK, especially London. - Start of Christmas Markets (Germany & Austria):
Later in November, iconic Christmas markets will open in cities such as Munich, Vienna, and Salzburg and will be filled with Christmas markets, mulled wine, and handcrafted gifts.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in November
Here are some of the best places in Europe to visit in November:
- Vienna & Munich – To enjoy the early Christmas markets
- London, UK – Have fun on the Bonfire Night and warm pubs
- Athens, Greece – Visit historic ruins in cooler weather with less of a tourist crowds.
Things to Do: Visit Christmas markets across Europe, experience the festivities in London, see Europe in all its holiday glory and enjoy cultural attractions without dauntingly high crowds.
Europe in December
Weather in December
December in Europe is cold and snowy with temperatures between 0°C to 8°C. Cities and towns throughout the continent are swept with a magical and festive season as the holiday season sets in.
Events & Festivals in Europe in December
Christmas Markets (Germany, Austria, France):
Travel to magical Christmas markets lit with lights, presents and mulled wine in cities such as Strasbourg, Vienna, Munich, and Cologne.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations (Paris, London, Berlin):
Ring in the new year with fireworks, street partying and famous countdowns in major capitals of Europe.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in December
Some of the best places to visit in Europe in December include:
- Strasbourg, France –The home to one of the oldest and most well-known Christmas Markets.
- Vienna, Austria – To experience the views, festive concerts and classical music, as well as charming lights.
- Lapland, Finland – A winter dreamland that you get to meet Santa Clauses and get a real arctic Christmas.
Things to Do: Indulge in mulled wine, wandering in markets of handcrafted gifts, skiing in the Alps, riding in reindeer sleighs and at the twinkling holiday lights in some of the best towns in Europe.
Conclusion
With snowy nights in the Alps in January and festive Christmas markets during the month of December, Europe is a place with a smell of something extraordinary in every month of the year. With chasing the Northern Lights, sunning at the shores of the Mediterranean, or roaming through cultural festivals, each season has its magic
Tip: Make your flight to Europe according to what you prefer skiing in winter, blossom time in spring, beaches in the summer or festive holidays. Like that, you will be able to see Europe at its finest at all times. To get professional advice and special offers, find out more about the places in Europe and plan the best European vacation, European Travel is ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Europe Travel
Which is the best month to visit Europe?
It is a matter of your interests. December-January is ideal when it comes to winter sports and Christmas markets. June to August is best for beaches and festivals. April-May or September-October is ideal as there will be pleasant weather and fewer people.
Is Europe very costly to visit in summer?
Summer (June to August) is high season, and hence flights, hotels, and attraction prices are high. To save money, make bookings in advance or during spring or fall.
Which month is the cheapest to travel to Europe?
January to February and November are popular off-season months, hence they are cheap. You will get cheaper flights and accommodations.
What are the top festivals in Europe?
The top festivals to visit are the Carnival in Venice (February), the Oktoberfest in Munich (September), the La Tomatina in Spain (August), and the Christmas markets in Germany and Austria (November-December).
Where do I get the Northern Lights in Europe?
The most suitable sites are Troms (Norway), Lapland (Finland), and some areas of Iceland, between September and March.
Which cities in Europe are good places to visit the Christmas markets?
Vienna, Munich, Prague, Strasbourg and Nuremberg are well-known because of magical Christmas markets that are full of festive lights, mulled wine and handmade presents.
What is the duration of a European trip?
It will depend on the countries you intend to capture. A short trip takes 7-10 days to one or two countries; whereas in a Europe trip covering more than one destination, it is likely to take 2-3 weeks.
