The Secret of the Seasons in Europe

Europe brings few seasonal surprises, for the most part, with the weather being similar to that of the Northeastern United States — although you may run into a warm, breezy day in December in Sicily, or a cold snap in summer in Scotland.

Europe tends to be slightly wetter than the United States (not including the Pacific Northwest) in autumn, winter, and spring; and drier (not including Arizona and New Mexico) in summer. Rain seems to fall an awful lot in England, and the peaks of the Alps never entirely lose their snow. Be prepared for all varieties of weather by packing clothes that you can layer, long underwear, a folding pocket umbrella, and lightweight clothes for warmer days.

Spring is great because . . .

- During this shoulder season (in between low and high seasons), the weather tends to be pleasantly mild, but unpredictable. Temperatures may still be cool enough for skiing in the Alps but already warm enough for a dip in the Mediterranean. As at home, spring can be notoriously fickle, though; be prepared for rain, cold spells, sudden heat waves . . . and/or perfect weather.

- Airlines usually offer more-reasonable rates than in summer.

- Europe is neither too crowded nor too solitary.

- Tulips bloom in Holland and elsewhere.

But keep in mind . . .

- Shoulder season is becoming ever more popular (read: crowded) as frequent travelers tire of the summer hordes and take advantage of airlines’ reduced rates.

- The off-season often runs October to Easter, so in early spring, many things may still be closed — from hotels to some sights to rural tourism destinations such as vineyards or farms.

Summer is great because . . .

- All the services that cater to tourists open their welcoming arms — this is the height of the tourist season, with the exception of ski resorts. Early summer is the most popular time to visit Europe, especially June and July.

- Colorful folk festivals, open-air music, and theatrical performances abound in early summer.

But keep in mind . . .

- In summertime, Europe can feel like one giant bus tour. In fact, the crowds are the season’s biggest drawback.

- The prices are the highest of the year — especially for airfares and hotels, which book quickly.

- Popular museums have long lines. You may have to wait for hours to get inside at peak times.

- The temperatures really heat up across Europe in August, especially during the second half of the month. Europeans go to the beaches, leaving the sweaty cities to the tourists.

- In the southern climates, the heat can be unbearable all summer long.

Fall is great because . . .

- The bulk of the tourists have left.

- Crops ripen, and wine and harvest festivals celebrate the season.

- As in spring, the fall shoulder season brings reasonable rates on airlines and some hotel bargains.

- The opera and concert seasons for Europe’s best companies and grand performance halls tend to begin in mid- to late fall.

But keep in mind . . .

- The weather can turn on you suddenly, with lots of drizzle, and the occasional downright wintery cold snap.

- Some tourist facilities — hotels, restaurants, and some sights — close for the season in October and November.

- Crowds are beginning to increase at this time of year as visitors try to escape the masses of summer.

Winter is great because . . .

- During low season (from mid- or late November through Easter, excluding Christmas week), hotel and travel expenses drop and you often have entire churches, museums, or even small towns to yourself.

- Christmas in Paris — or Rome, or Madrid, or Venice — can be beautiful and an experience to remember.

- You haven’t really skied until you’ve been to the Swiss Alps and gone downhill for more than an hour without ever having to catch a lift.

But keep in mind . . .

- You may not want to spend your vacation bundled up, shielding yourself from the cold.

- Tourism destinations tend to freshen up during this period of calm. Museums review and reorganize their exhibits. Churches and monuments undergo restorations or cleanings. And local transportation, tourist offices, and shops shorten their hours, while some restaurants and hotels close for a week or even a month.

- Some of the most popular destinations, such as islands, smaller tourism-based cities, and spas, close up almost entirely.