March to October is the best time to visit Southern Europe
The best time to visit Southern Europe—covering destinations like Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Croatia, and Andorra—is from March to October. During this period, the region enjoys pleasant to hot temperatures (ranging from 18°C to 32°C), ideal for beach holidays, island escapes, and cultural sightseeing. Spring (March–May) and early autumn (September–October) offer warm weather, blooming landscapes or harvest celebrations, and fewer crowds. Summer (June–August) is peak tourist season, ideal for Mediterranean beach lovers and festival-goers, though it brings higher prices and crowded hotspots. The off-season (November to February) brings milder winters than elsewhere in Europe, with festive markets, fewer tourists, and cheaper prices.
March to May: Spring - Shoulder Season
Weather: With temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C, Spring marks the start of the travel season in Southern Europe. Flowers bloom, seas begin to warm, and smaller towns in Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Greece buzz with early festivals and Easter celebrations.
Rainfall: Light to moderate, especially in March and April.
Wind: Spring winds like the Meltemi (Greece) and Mistral (southern France & northern Italy) can cause breezy days, especially near the coast
Crowds: Manageable, with growing tourism toward late May.
Cost: Lower airfares and hotel rates, especially in March–April
Travel Tip: Ideal for those seeking cultural exploration, mild beach weather, and better prices.
June to August: Summer - Peak Season
Weather: Summer in Southern Europe is hot, dry, and vibrant. Average temperatures range from 26°C to 32°C, with coastal areas offering breezy relief and long days for exploration. Beaches are packed, seaside towns come alive, and major cities host concerts, art festivals, and outdoor events.
Rainfall: Very low; July and August are driest months
Wind: Coastal breezes in the evening offer relief; southern Spain may see hot Levante winds
Crowds: Very high—expect long queues at attractions and busy resorts
Cost: Highest of the year for flights, hotels, and attractions
Travel Tip: Book accommodations and entry tickets well in advance; evenings are the best time for city walks and al fresco dining.
September to November: Autumn - Shoulder Season
Weather: Autumn is one of the most underrated times to explore Southern Europe. September remains warm (24°C to 28°C), while October and November cool down gradually. Vineyards and olive groves are in harvest, and the coastlines are quieter but still pleasant.
Rainfall: Light in September, rising in October (especially along Adriatic and Iberian coasts)
Wind: Occasional coastal winds and mountain breezes
Crowds: Thinner than summer, especially after mid-September.
Cost: Drops significantly after mid-September
November to February: Off Season - Winter
Weather: Winter in Southern Europe is mild compared to the north, especially along the Mediterranean coast. Expect temperatures between 10°C and 16°C in cities like Lisbon, Athens, Barcelona, and coastal Italy, while alpine areas like Andorra and Northern Italy offer skiing.
Temperatures: Coastal - 10°C to 15°C (Lisbon, Barcelona, Athens)
Inland/Mountain - 0°C to 10°C (Granada, Florence)
Rainfall: Frequent showers in coastal cities like Dubrovnik, Naples, Lisbon
Wind: Strong coastal winds possible (Bora in Croatia, Atlantic gusts in Portugal)
Snow: Common in Andorra, Northern Greece, Italian Alps, and inland Spain
Crowds: Lowest of the year—except over Christmas & New Year
Cost: Cheapest time to visit—great for budget travelers
Sea Transportantion: Some ferry services might be limited or closed
Travel Tip: Coastal regions stay open but are quieter; mountain resorts attract skiers
