Lucky you! You're planning a vacation to Spain and trying to decide on when you should embark on your adventure. The most important reality you need to understand when deciding on timing is the fact that the tourism year in Europe is split into three seasons: peak season (summer), shoulder season (spring and fall), and winter (off-season).
Peak Tourist Season in Europe
As is clear in the name, peak season is the time of year in which most travelers explore Europe. While this has a number of advantages, including longer days (and therefore more time to explore), more attractions being open, the chance to attend certain festivals (including music festivals), and the fact that it is prime beach season, it has some disadvantages, too. The most significant of these is cost. As so many people travel to Spain during peak season, hotel prices and the cost of pretty much everything else you'll need to pay for in terms of day-to-day expenses is higher. Another disadvantage is all the crowds you'll have to deal with. Some people don't mind this, but if you tend to like having a lot of quiet time you'll probably find you get very little of it if you take your vacation during peak season.
Shoulder Season in Europe
If you'd like to save some money and don't mind dealing with a few attractions perhaps being closed and maybe a more limited selection of events and festivals, consider traveling to Spain during shoulder season (spring and fall). If you want to make the beach a big part of your vacation but still want to save some of the money you would by going during shoulder season, it's best to visit in late spring or early fall, when you're more likely to experience some summer-like days. Many people feel that the best times of year to visit Spain are from March to May and September to November. In many parts of Spain, you'll have just as much fun on the beach during these times as you would in the summer.
Off-Season Travel in Europe
Those who want to spend more time on historic and cultural attractions and activities that don't involve the beach might find that going to Spain in the winter might be the perfect option. Imagine how much more relaxing museum and gallery visits will be without all the crowds.
Think about booking a travel package to save money, especially if you're traveling during the peak season when costs are at their highest. Look into the travel packages including elements such as airfare, accommodations, and even transportation while in the destination that are available. If you can find a package of this sort that includes the elements you want and that will allow you to have the vacation you envision, think about booking your travel this way. Do thorough research to make sure that the company and providers involved in this package are credible. Take some time to look through reviews from other travelers, too.
Have a wonderful time traveling in Spain! Whether you're traveling by yourself, with a group of friends, or with the entire family, you're certain to find lots to see and do in this historic European country. Remember to take lots of pictures to show friends and co-workers back home.
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