What an absolute treat to be lucky and flexible enough to avoid peak season and enjoy the most beautiful European cities in the fall or springtime. Visiting these gems between March and May, and again between September and November, is not only fantastic on account of the great accommodation deals you might get, but also due to the incredible beauty showcased by nature during these months. Since Europe is located in the northern hemisphere, very far away from the equator, it has distinct seasons that determine both prices and availability. Spring brings with it a feeling of hope, new beginnings and a lust for life, while the fall months are the calm after the storm of summer. Let’s look at the three best cities to visit in shoulder season.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a city of enchanting beauty, where historical charm meets vibrant modernity and friendly people. If you’ve seen pics of Amsterdam you’ll surely have noticed the intricate network of canals, lined with elegant 17th-century houses. These picturesque waterways, crisscrossed by charming bridges and punctuated by blooming tulip gardens in spring, offer a serene and romantic atmosphere that’s uniquely Amsterdam. It seems obvious that the best time to visit is summer, not least because of the fabulous energy in the air. However, if you’re on a budget or have some freedom and flexibility in your schedule, then consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, namely spring and autumn, as these are absolutely fantastic too. You can get great prices on accommodation and won’t have to wait as long to get into incredibly popular museums like NEMO Science Center, The Van Gogh Museum or the National Maritime Museum. Be sure to get Van Gogh Museum tickets beforehand to avoid you and your family having to wait in long queues. The Van Gogh Museum is definitely in the top three things you have to see when in Amsterdam.
While Amsterdam may be known for its legalisation of cannabis, it’s more famous for its canal cruises, and you’ll see why when you take a trip with your friends. The beauty of being in a city with so many canals, is the wide array of canal trips you can take, which only adds to the charm of Amsterdam. From pancake tours, where you’re (obviously) served pancakes while admiring the city, to hop-on hop-off trips that allow you to see more of the city and wander off on foot for a while, to private options for groups or special occasions. Whichever cruise you choose will depend on your preferences and requirements, but in the end it doesn’t really matter because every single one is bucket-list worthy. Amsterdam also has beautiful outdoor areas for nature lovers. Vondelpark provides a lush escape in the heart of the city, with its expansive green spaces, serene lakes and winding paths perfect for leisurely strolls or bike rides.
Valencia
The locals of Valencia have a saying when it comes to this dreamy seaside city: “a piece of heaven fallen to earth” is what they say. And while they may be somewhat bias, they aren’t entirely wrong. Valencia is exquisite in terms of its architecture, among other things, and features a charming historic centre, the Ciutat Vella (Old Town). While it certainly has plenty of history and stories to tell, the city has entered the 21st century with gusto and a whole lot of class. Like many European cities, Valencia is super walkable and caters to pedestrians, making it easy to hit many of the must-see spots in a relatively short time: walk to the sleek Modern Art Institute, the Barrio del Carmen, or the Cathedral, Miguelete and Holy Grail. It almost has the feeling of being a futuristic city, with architecture that reminds viewers of a world of artistic and scientific discovery.
We’d be remiss not to mention the most famous Spanish festival held in Valencia in March — Las Fallas. This festival is among the most enjoyable and peaceful celebrations in Spain, featuring many fallas (giant figures) made of papier-mâché, parading in the Valencian streets and built by local artists for the event. Under the warm rays of the southern sun in mid-March, Valencia’s palm-fringed plazas are full of life and the city becomes a scene of joyous celebration during the Fiesta de San José (Feast Day of Saint Joseph), a lively religious festival that brims with creative spirit and interesting things to do. What could be better than traditional music and food (paella), a parade, fireworks and unique art exhibits? Probably nothing.
Zagreb
With the recent change in working life, going from fixed offices to more remote work, people have more freedom than ever to explore and live of their own volition. The standard 3-week holiday in June or July, after having to apply to the management for those days off, no longer really applies to the majority of people. The ability to work on your laptop pretty much from anywhere, even if you aren’t taking actual leave, opens up a whole new world for people keen to hit the skies and make memories. If you are one of those blessed people who can work from anywhere or take leave at your discretion, then perhaps Zagreb in the shoulder season is just the place for you. Zagreb is one of Europe’s most exciting destinations because life in Zagreb is lived on the streets of the city itself, with public art, street food and majestic green parks delighting locals and tourists alike in all four seasons.