Travel Tips & Trends

London

Off-season Europe

If the vastly reduced prices don't move you, there are still other compelling reasons to visit Europe in the so-called "off-season." For romantic or contemplative travel, autumn through spring is the best time to travel on the Continent.

Many Americans go to Europe for the romance of its little towns and medieval urban quarters, and for the chance to meet local people and experience the Old World perspective of Europe.

This can be difficult during peak travel season, when attractions are packed full and harried shopkeepers, hotel staff, guides and waiters are working a factory line of demanding tourists.

In addition, some of Europe's best cultural events happen in the off-season. These include Viennese balls, London's fall theatre season, the Christmas markets of Germany and Central Europe, the European Fine Art Fair in Maastricht, the Carnival of Venice, winter activities in Finnish Lapland and Easter celebrations in Greece.

So if you're looking to get inside the real Europe, remember that the off-season is really the "in-season" for travel.