Shoulder Season

Shoulder season travel occurs between a destination's peak and off-peak seasons, offering the opportunity to experience places with fewer crowds, potentially lower prices, and often more pleasant weather than during the high season.,

The term 'shoulder season' refers to the travel period that falls between a destination's peak and off-peak seasons, which typically happens in spring (March and April) and fall (September and October) for many destinations.,

  • During shoulder season, you'll likely encounter fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed and authentic travel experience.,

  • Flights, accommodations, and activities are often cheaper during shoulder season compared to peak times, making it a cost-effective option for travelers.,

  • Many destinations experience milder temperatures during shoulder season, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.,

  • With fewer tourists around during shoulder season, you can engage more deeply with local culture and traditions, leading to more authentic experiences.,

  • In Europe, shoulder season usually falls in the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October).,

  • Southeast Asia's shoulder season can be found in March, April, May, and November.,

  • While in Japan, shoulder season can be found in March, May, June, September, October, November, and December.

The shoulder season varies depending on the destination.,In Mediterranean Europe, fall and spring bring cooler temperatures, which can result in near peak-season crowds and prices for shoulder season in much of Italy, southern France, Spain, Croatia, and Greece.,When debating whether to travel in spring or fall, it's important to consider your destination, as both seasons generally have similar weather and crowds.,Spring in Mediterranean Europe is typically green, while fall often brings parched conditions.,For hikers, the Alps are better in early fall, as many good hiking trails are still covered with snow through late spring.