Best European cities to visit in shoulder season

I am planning a trip to Europe for late September or early October (already looking at flight and hotel packages here) and want to avoid the peak summer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather. I am looking for recommendations on cities that are still vibrant during this time but offer better hotel rates and shorter lines for major attractions. Does anyone have experience visiting Southern Europe or Central Europe during these months? I would love to hear your suggestions for hidden gems or cities that truly shine during the shoulder season.

Late September is honestly the best time to visit Seville. The heat is much more manageable than in August, and you can actually get into the Real Alcázar without waiting for hours. Definitely check out some underrated European destinations for 2024 if you want to avoid the typical tourist traps.

I went to Lisbon in early October last year and it was perfect. The light is beautiful, it's not nearly as crowded as July, and the prices for boutique hotels dropped significantly. Highly recommend it!

If you head to Central Europe, Prague is stunning in October. The autumn foliage makes the city look like a fairytale, and the morning mist over the Vltava is worth the trip alone.

Don't overlook Ljubljana, Slovenia. It’s vibrant, compact, and very affordable during the shoulder season. It feels much more local once the summer rush dies down.

Athens in late September is a dream. You get all the history without the blistering heat or the massive cruise ship crowds. Just make sure to book your museum tickets in advance anyway.

I’m currently planning my own trip and debating transport. I found this guide on Eurail Pass vs. Point-to-Point Tickets: Which is more cost-effective for a 3-week trip? which has been super helpful for budgeting.

Bologna is an incredible foodie destination that stays lively well into October because of the university students. It’s far less touristy than Rome or Florence.

Try Porto! It’s consistently pleasant in early October, the wine is flowing, and the vibe is much more relaxed than it is in mid-summer.

Dubrovnik is great in the shoulder season. You can actually walk the city walls without being shoved by thousands of other tourists, and the sea is still warm enough for a swim.

Valencia is a fantastic alternative to Barcelona. It has a great beach, amazing food, and it feels much more authentic, especially once the summer vacationers leave.

I spent October in Budapest and it was magical. The thermal baths are even more enjoyable when the air starts to get a bit crisp. Plus, hotel rates are a fraction of what they are in the summer (you can check seasonal travel deals and discounts on this page).

Consider San Sebastian if you are a fan of gastronomy. It’s gorgeous in the fall, and while it might be a bit rainier, the crowds are non-existent compared to August.